Recently, many employees at U.S. health agencies were laid off, potentially affecting various areas such as scientific research, disease monitoring, and the approval of new medical products. These layoffs were initiated by the Trump administration and impacted several agencies under the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Although reports suggest up to 5,000 staff might be affected, the exact number is uncertain.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) may struggle with disease tracking due to these cuts, and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) might face challenges in conducting early research necessary for developing new medicines. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) could experience difficulties in overseeing drug and device industries and ensuring food safety. Former FDA commissioner Robert Califf expressed concern about these potential impacts.
The layoffs targeted “probationary” staff—new hires or recently promoted employees—affecting the FDA’s ability to focus on emerging areas like artificial intelligence and nutrition. Additionally, an executive order from President Donald Trump limits future hiring in federal agencies, allowing only one new hire for every four employees who leave, which could further impact public health and drug regulation.
These changes are part of a broader effort led by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency to reduce government spending. However, there has been little transparency about the process, and experts have criticized it as poorly planned.
Industry experts are concerned that cutting new and recently promoted staff hinders the development of expertise within agencies like the FDA. The pharmaceutical industry has remained mostly silent, but some groups, like Advamed, have criticized the layoffs and called for their reversal.
Overall, these layoffs could have serious consequences for public health, as they might slow down the approval process for new drugs and devices, potentially putting patients at risk.