AOA Statement on HHS Dismissal of USPSTF Vice Chairs

CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Access to evidence-based preventive services is central to delivering whole-person care and supporting long-term patient wellbeing. Representing more than 207,000 osteopathic physicians (DOs) and medical students in the U.S., we are deeply concerned by the abrupt dismissal of the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) Vice Chairs and political interference in the USPSTF process.

The USPSTF plays a critical role in healthcare coverage and access to services, as health plan coverage for preventive services without cost-sharing is directly tied to the recommendations of the task force. Additionally, the Task Force’s recommendations have supported evidence-based medicine and clinical decision-making by physicians. Supporting the integrity of the USPSTF process and preserving public trust is essential to supporting public health and access to whole-person care.

Within a continuously evolving healthcare landscape with new care innovations and emerging evidence on preventive interventions, physicians must be able to base their care recommendations on scientifically proven guidelines. The osteopathic profession will continue to advocate for access to evidence-based health care.

About the American Osteopathic Association (AOA)
The American Osteopathic Association (AOA) represents more than 207,000 osteopathic physicians (DOs) and osteopathic medical students; promotes public health; encourages scientific research; and serves as the primary certifying body for DOs. To learn more about DOs and the osteopathic philosophy of medicine, visit findado.osteopathic.org.