Whitaker Wants Congress To Capitalize On ‘Golden Age Of Medical Innovation’

A battle may be forming over the 2027 FDA user fee reauthorizations. At a conference Friday, Democratic Rep. Jake Auchincloss supports them for their effectiveness, while Deputy FDA Commissioner Grace Graham echoed criticisms from HHS Sec. Kennedy, among others, in calling for reform to ensure public trust.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. emphasized administrative cost reductions and defended budget decisions during a Senate hearing on HHS funding. Some senators, however, expressed concerns over the impacts spending cuts had on essential health programs.

During his testimony before US senators on the impact of tariffs on critical supply chains, AdvaMed’s Scott Whitaker said the Trump tariffs could jeopardize America’s preeminence in medtech. Other industry experts echoed similar concerns.

The FDA's final LDT ruling was struck down in federal court last month. For now, diagnostic companies can commercialize under CLIA regulations or apply for FDA approval. McDermott and Tribun Health have shared insights on the risks, pros and cons of both regulatory routes.