Robert F Kennedy Jr’s proposal to remove public commentary from US health policy is a threat to science and public health

Salmi L, Walker J, Delbanco T, DesRoches C

doi: https://www.bmj.com/content/389/bmj.r676 

In a recent BMJ opinion, OpenNotes leaders warn that a proposal by U.S. health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to eliminate public comment in federal health policymaking threatens transparency, public trust, and democratic values. The authors argue that public input has driven critical improvements in U.S. health policy—including transparency in drug pricing and patient access to medical records.

They also highlight how OpenNotes research helped shape the 21st Century Cures Act and the federal rule requiring timely patient access to clinical notes. Over 2,000 public comments informed that rule, ensuring it reflected the needs of patients and care partners.

Removing public commentary would silence those most affected by health decisions and increase the risk of corporate influence. At a time of rising misinformation and vaccine hesitancy, the authors urge health leaders to strengthen—not weaken—transparency and public participation.

Read the full article here.