On June 27, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court delivered a pivotal 6–3 decision in Kennedy v. Braidwood Management, Inc., affirming the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) mandate requiring insurers to cover preventive health services at no cost to patients. This ruling ensures continued access to essential services such as cancer screenings, HIV prevention medications, and immunizations for approximately 150 million Americans.
Key Takeaways for HR Professionals
- Preservation of No-Cost Preventive Services
The Court upheld the authority of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), determining that its members are “inferior officers” appointed by the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), not requiring Senate confirmation. This decision maintains the ACA’s provision that mandates coverage of preventive services without cost-sharing, including those recommended by the USPSTF.
- Implications for Employer-Sponsored Health Plans
Employers must continue to provide health plans that cover preventive services without imposing deductibles, co-payments, or coinsurance. This includes services like diabetes screenings, cancer screenings, and HIV prevention medications such as PrEP.
- Potential for Increased Political Influence
While the decision affirms the current structure, it also acknowledges the HHS Secretary’s authority to appoint and remove USPSTF members. This raises concerns about potential politicization of health recommendations, as seen when HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. replaced a vaccine advisory panel with individuals who opposed certain vaccine components.
Action Items for HR Professionals
- Review Health Plan Compliance: Ensure that your organization’s health plans continue to comply with ACA requirements for covering preventive services without cost-sharing.
- Monitor Policy Changes: Stay informed about any changes in USPSTF recommendations or HHS policies that may affect covered services.
- Communicate with Employees: Educate employees about the continued availability of no-cost preventive services and encourage utilization to promote overall health and wellness.
This Supreme Court decision reinforces the importance of preventive care in the U.S. healthcare system and underscores the role of HR professionals in ensuring that employees have access to these vital services.
Sources:
- Reuters: The article provides an overview of the Court’s 6-3 decision, emphasizing the preservation of the ACA’s preventive care mandate and its implications for millions of Americans. com
- The Washington Post: This piece delves into the constitutional aspects of the ruling, discussing the Court’s reasoning regarding the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and potential future political influences on health policy. com
- STAT News: The article examines the broader impact of the decision, highlighting concerns about the potential politicization of preventive health recommendations and the role of the Health and Human Services Secretary. com