HHS Implements Gag Order to Centralize Communications Ahead of Transition

Dr. Dorothy Fink, acting secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), has issued a gag order prohibiting all outgoing communications from the agency without prior approval from a presidential appointee. This directive, outlined in a five-step memorandum, affects all divisions within HHS, including the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid, and remains in effect until February 1. The order requires all communications—including regulations, guidance, and public speaking engagements—to be reviewed and approved, while also mandating that legal or critical documents impacting health and safety be reported to the executive secretary policy coordinator, aimed at centralizing control during the upcoming confirmation hearing of Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.

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