Eight years after the March for Science gathered over 1 million people worldwide, scientists are once again taking to the streets to “Stand Up for Science.” This time, the focus is on Boston, NYC, and D.C., and we at STAT will be there to cover the events.
Marty Makary, President Trump’s pick for FDA Commissioner, recently faced the Senate HELP Committee in what can only be described as a lackluster hearing. Compared to the contentious hearings of Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Makary’s testimony left much to be desired. While he touched on important issues like radical transparency and childhood chronic disease, his responses to tough questions were mostly superficial.
When asked about the Texas measles outbreak, Makary acknowledged that “vaccines save lives” but stopped short of recommending them for the current situation. He also promised to review the safety data on prescribing mifepristone remotely. The only topic that seemed to ruffle Makary’s feathers was the recent FDA layoffs, which he claimed not to be involved with, but pledged to personally evaluate staffing levels moving forward.
Despite the almost two-hour hearing, it remains unclear what kind of commissioner Makary will be and how he plans to earn the trust of a beleaguered FDA workforce. Despite this, his Senate confirmation is expected to proceed smoothly.
Moving on to the NIH, seven employees who previously worked in the Sexual & Gender Minority Research Office were suddenly placed on administrative leave without explanation. This move aligns with the administration’s stance on “gender ideology” and its push to withdraw federal support for related research. The sudden shift has left many questioning the motives behind the decision.
In a surprising turn of events, a recent poll revealed that Americans overwhelmingly support Medicaid, with over 80% of respondents wanting funding for the program to either remain stable or increase. This poses a challenge for Republicans who have been exploring ways to cut Medicaid spending to offset potential tax cuts. The poll also highlighted the discrepancy in support for work requirements, shedding light on the complexities of public opinion on the matter.
A report released by the New York Lawyers for the Public Interest criticized New York’s policy for treating people with mental illness, citing ineffectiveness and racial bias. The program, known as Kendra’s Law, has been in place for over 25 years, but its results have been called into question, particularly concerning the disproportionate enrollment of Black and Hispanic individuals.
On a lighter note, a new study suggests that swapping plant-based oils for butter could lead to a longer, healthier life. The findings challenge previous beliefs about the health impacts of vegetable oils and offer valuable insights into dietary choices for improved well-being.
Lastly, patient advocates are urging the Department of Health and Human Services to preserve public input following recent changes that could restrict public participation in decision-making processes. As the private sector braces for potential impacts, advocacy groups and lawmakers are pushing back against the move.
As we navigate through these complex healthcare issues, it’s crucial to stay informed and engaged in the ongoing conversations that shape our healthcare landscape. Remember, your voice matters in shaping the future of healthcare policies and practices. Stay tuned for more updates and insights on these critical issues.
