Statement from the National Medical Association on the Importance of Preserving Leadership and Integrity of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force
For Immediate Release:
May 27, 2026
Statement attributable to:
126th President, National Medical Association
The National Medical Association (NMA) is troubled by the decision by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to remove the vice chairs of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), Dr. John Wong and Dr. Esa Davis, from their leadership positions. The USPSTF has long served as one of the nation’s most trusted, evidence-based bodies for preventive healthcare recommendations that directly impact millions of Americans and guide insurance coverage for lifesaving screenings and preventive services.
Preventive healthcare is the cornerstone of a healthier nation. Early screenings for cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, HIV prevention, maternal health conditions, and mental health disorders save lives, reduce healthcare costs, and help eliminate longstanding health disparities that disproportionately impact Black communities and other underserved populations. The NMA strongly believes that every American deserves access to scientifically grounded preventive care guided by medical expertise and sound evidence.
The USPSTF plays a critical role in ensuring that preventive services remain rooted in science, data, and clinical evidence. Its recommendations determine which preventive services insurers must cover without cost sharing under the Affordable Care Act, making healthcare more accessible for working families and vulnerable populations.
Dr. Wong and Dr. Davis are highly respected physicians and public health leaders whose expertise in primary care, health equity, and preventive medicine has strengthened the credibility and integrity of the Task Force. Their leadership has helped advance evidence-based recommendations that improve patient outcomes and expand equitable access to care. The abrupt removal of experienced leaders from an independent scientific panel risks weakening public confidence in the nation’s healthcare infrastructure at a time when trust in public health institutions is critically important.
The NMA remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing health equity, protecting access to preventive healthcare, and supporting the independence of scientific and medical advisory bodies. We urge HHS leadership to preserve the integrity, transparency, and nonpartisan nature of the USPSTF so that preventive healthcare recommendations continue to reflect the best available medical evidence and the needs of all communities.
Health is foundational to the well being, productivity, and future of our nation. The NMA will continue advocating for policies and institutions that protect public health, reduce disparities, and ensure that all Americans have access to high quality preventive care.
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About the National Medical Association:
The National Medical Association is the nation’s oldest and largest organization representing Black physicians and health professionals in the U.S. and promotes the collective interests of physicians and patients of African descent. We serve as the voice of Black physicians and a leading voice for parity in medicine, elimination of health disparities and promotion of optimal health. To learn more about the NMA, please visit https://www.nmanet.org/.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jaylen Christie
850-556-4924
jaylen@bdaviscomm.com
