Julie Rovner

Julie Rovner, Chief Washington correspondent for KFF Health News, dives into the implications of Donald Trump's nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for the Department of Health and Human Services. They discuss Kennedy's controversial views on vaccines and health policy, raising concerns among health experts. The conversation also highlights the expansive role of the HHS and the potential challenges Kennedy might face with his proposals, including changes to drug advertisements and chronic disease prevention strategies.

Julie Rovner, Chief Washington correspondent for KFF Health News, Angela Rasmussen, a virologist from the University of Saskatchewan, and Dan Diamond, a White House reporter for The Washington Post, delve into the recent drastic layoffs at the Department of Health and Human Services. They discuss how these job cuts could threaten public health services, drug approvals, and critical biomedical research. Tensions rise over vaccine regulations amidst ongoing health crises, creating concerns about the integrity of health policy under political influences.

Julie Rovner, Chief Washington Correspondent for KFF Health News, dives into the sweeping changes at the Department of Health and Human Services, discussing a staggering 20,000 job cuts and agency mergers. She highlights the potential fallout on public health services and how these budget slashes may impact Medicare and Medicaid. Rovner also shares stories emphasizing the crucial role of community health care, answering listener questions and shedding light on the system's challenges and the dedication of healthcare professionals.

Julie Rovner, Chief Washington correspondent for KFF Health News, Dan Diamond, National health reporter for The Washington Post, and Samuel Bagenstas, former general counsel of HHS, dive into the inner workings of the Department of Health and Human Services. They discuss the profound impact of HHS on American healthcare, potential vaccine policy changes under new leadership, and the looming threat of bird flu. Their insights reveal the tension between political influences and the vital role of career public servants in safeguarding public health.

Julie Rovner, Chief Washington correspondent for KFF Health News, Dan Diamond, National health reporter for The Washington Post, and Samuel Bagenstas, former general counsel of HHS, dive into the complexities of the Department of Health and Human Services. They discuss the potential impacts of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s appointment as secretary, including changes to vaccine policy and funding. They also explore the implications of Medicare privatization, vaccine confidence, and the role of dedicated public servants in shaping health policy amid political challenges.