U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF): An Introduction
When Congress authorized the USPSTF, it required the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to support the Task Force's work. The 1998 Public Health Service Act and the 2010 Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act instruct AHRQ to provide administrative, research, technical, and communication support to the Task Force. As part of this support, AHRQ:
- Helps with day-to-day operations.
- Coordinates the production of evidence reports.
- Ensures consistent use of Task Force methods.
- Helps disseminate Task Force materials and recommendations.
The Director of AHRQ also appoints new USPSTF members, with guidance from the Chair of the Task Force. While AHRQ staff supports the Task Force, it is important to note that the Task Force is an independent body, and its work does not require AHRQ or HHS approval.
Go to more information about the USPSTF and its recommendations.
The following resources related to the USPSTF's recommendations are also available:
