RFK Jr. Calls for Early Alzheimer’s Screening Amid Criticism of Health Panel

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, has emphasized the importance of early Alzheimer’s screening, describing the lack of it as “almost regulatory malpractice” ^[1][2]. Kennedy’s remarks come as the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), a federal panel responsible for issuing recommendations on preventive services, has been inactive since March 2025 ^[1][3].

Kennedy has criticized the USPSTF for its inaction, labeling the panel as “lackadaisical and negligent” ^[1][4]. He argues that if the task force had been operational, early screening for Alzheimer’s would already be in place ^[1][4].

In May 2026, Kennedy removed the two top leaders of the USPSTF, Dr. John Wong and Dr. Esa Davis, as part of a broader overhaul of the panel ^[4][5]. This move was part of an effort to revitalize the task force, which had been unable to publish updates on several preventive guidelines, including those for cervical cancer screening and maternal depression ^[5][6].

The Department of Health and Human Services is preparing to appoint eight new members to the USPSTF, with plans to allow the panel to resume meetings in late August 2026 ^[7][1].

What Is Known

Kennedy has publicly advocated for early Alzheimer’s screening, calling it “absolutely critical” ^[1][2]. The USPSTF has been inactive for over a year, preventing updates on various preventive health guidelines ^[5][6]. Kennedy’s removal of the task force’s leadership is part of an effort to address this inactivity ^[4][5].

What Remains Unclear

It is unclear which specific Alzheimer’s screening method Kennedy is advocating for, as he did not specify a particular test ^[1]. Additionally, the impact of the upcoming changes to the USPSTF on future health guidelines remains to be seen ^[7].