Safeguarding public health: nursing associations advocate for evidence-based leadership at HHS

The American Nurses Association\California, Washington State Nurses Association, Montana Nurses Association, Oregon Nurses Association, Minnesota Organization of Registered Nurses, American Nurses Association Illinois, Hawai'i American Nurses Association, American Nurses Association Vermont, American Nurses Association Ohio, and Colorado Nurses Association join together in emphasizing the importance of safeguarding public health and prioritizing evidence-based practices within all levels of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), which oversees critical divisions such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

We express deep concerns regarding nominations that have recently been announced by the incoming administration, and we share the need to take a clear stand at this moment to clarify our profession’s priorities. The HHS must inspire trust across the political spectrum while demonstrating an unwavering commitment to science, public health, and the diverse needs of our nation.

While we respect the right to differing opinions and recognize the importance of personal choice in healthcare decisions, our nursing role compels us to advocate for evidence-based practices. Decades of research and experience confirm that vaccines are among the most effective tools for preventing illness, reducing mortality, decreasing healthcare costs, and protecting vulnerable populations.

Nurses are at the forefront of healthcare delivery. We deliver high-quality, timely, and appropriate care and advocate for our patients by promoting vaccination as a vital tool for public health. We educate patients and communities using evidence and data, guided by trusted organizations like the CDC and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).

To ensure the effectiveness of our nation's public health strategy, leaders in nursing, health, medicine, and science must possess a deep understanding of evidence-based practices that align with the ANA Code of Ethics. To effectively protect the health of all humankind, we need leaders who base their decisions on rigorous evidence and who prioritize collaboration with healthcare professionals to foster trust and accountability. We take a bold stand against any current or future nominees that aim to sow distrust in evidence-based recommendations, vaccines, or our public health institutions.

This coalition of state nurses associations urges policymakers to safeguard our commitment to science, public health, and the diverse needs of our communities. Our patients - and the public at large - deserve leadership that works collaboratively to uphold the principles of science, promote and protect equity and inclusion, and embody evidence-based decision-making.