Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is revising a longstanding transparency policy, which required public input on various HHS rules. This change might ease the implementation of controversial policies such as Medicaid work requirements and NIH funding caps. Legal experts warn that the broad nature of this policy shift could affect numerous health programs, despite backlash from health advocates emphasizing the complexities of healthcare regulation. The decision raises concerns about diminishing stakeholder engagement in significant health policy decisions.
"The practice, delivery, and regulation of medicine is incredibly complex," Stella Dantas, president of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, said in a statement.
Kennedy now says the policy imposes extra requirements and is 'contrary to the efficient operation of the department.'"
The broadly worded change could apply to a slew of programs including NIH grants and Medicaid policy, legal experts say.
Skipping public comment could make it easier for HHS to require Medicaid recipients to work in order to receive benefits."
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