Kennedy's HHS Nomination Sparks Mixed Reactions in Medtech Sector

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s nomination to lead the US Department of Health and Human Services has generated both cautious optimism and concerns in the medtech sector, with concerns including a less science-based regulatory environment and potential user fee cuts.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. holds a campaign rally in January 2024
(Bryan Regan/Shutterstock)

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., nominated by President-Elect Donald Trump on 14 November to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, has expressed controversial views on several regulated industries. He’s promised to revisit federal vaccine recommendations, take fluoride out of public water, and remove dyes and other additives from the food supply. But on medical devices, the former environmental lawyer has been uncharacteristically mum.

Medtech industry insiders contacted by Medtech Insight were unaware of any specific views Kennedy has expressed around medtech. His core...

Read the full article – start your free trial today!

Join thousands of industry professionals who rely on Medtech Insight for daily insights

  • Start your 7-day free trial
  • Explore trusted news, analysis, and insights
  • Access comprehensive global coverage
  • Enjoy instant access – no credit card required

More from Medtech Insight

Aneira Health Launches New Precision Medicine Platform Exclusively For Women

 

Cecilia Lindgren, Aneira Health’s co-founder and chief science officer, said that the company has “redesigned the diagnostic model.” The subscription-based platform offers clinical-grade and AI diagnostics alongside clinical consultation.

AI In Health Delivery: Patients Most Confident When HCPs Are In Charge

 
• By 

Annual survey of patients and professionals shows how attitudes to health system transformation are evolving and what stakeholders are demanding as acceptance of AI tools accelerates.

Thermo Fisher Cuts Annual Profit Outlook Amid Estimated $400M Tariff Hit

 
• By 

Thermo Fisher is aggressively managing its supply chain and cost base using its Practical Process Improvement (PPI) Business System. The company is also increasing investments in US-based manufacturing and R&D, with around $2bn allocated to bolster domestic operations.

‘Small Business’ Applications For Waiver Of Device User Fees To Be Streamlined By US FDA

 

FDA moves forward with implementing previous draft guidance and will consolidate forms, but the agency estimates limited impact in the total reporting burden.

More from Policy & Regulation

Where Do Questions Surrounding The EU’s AI Act Leave The Medtech Industry?

 

The EU’s Artificial Intelligence Act, which entered into force on 1 August 2024, is already facing turbulence.

Medtech Giants Brace for Tariffs Impact: Responses Range From Financial To Philosophical

 

Manufacturing shifts, financial planning, and supply chain changes are among the adjustments that medtech leaders are making to Trump-era tariffs. Medtech Insight’s review of first-quarter earnings calls reveals how firms are navigating the impact and uncertainty of evolving trade policies.

Global Medtech Guidance Tracker: May 2025

 
• By 

Stay current on regulatory guidelines from around the world with Medtech Insight's Guidance Tracker. Thirty-six documents have been posted on the tracker since its last update.