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Interview with Bonnie Maldonado: Insights on ACIP

In a pivotal moment for public health, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recently made headlines by completely restructuring the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). This move, characterized by HHS as a fundamental step towards restoring public trust, resulted in the replacement of 17 existing members with just 8 new appointments. The reform was officially announced on June 9th, 2025, and the first meeting with the new committee is set to conclude today, June 26th.

To gain further insight into these changes, we conducted an exclusive interview with Dr. Bonnie Maldonado, who is not only a well-regarded academic in the field of infectious diseases but also one of the members who was removed from ACIP.

Qualifications and Background

Dr. Maldonado boasts an illustrious career as the Senior Associate Dean for Faculty Development and Diversity at Stanford University School of Medicine. Her credentials are impressive, including roles as the Taube Endowed Professor of Global Health and Infectious Diseases and Professor of Pediatrics and Epidemiology. Beyond her academic roles, she has contributed significantly as the Interim Chair of the Department of Medicine and serves as the Medical Director of Infection Prevention at Stanford. This extensive experience positions her uniquely to provide informed commentary on the recent changes within ACIP.

The Impact of Changes

During the interview, Dr. Maldonado expressed concerns regarding the implications of the complete overhaul of ACIP. She emphasized the need for transparency within the reformed committee, particularly regarding how decisions will be made moving forward. The public's trust in vaccination recommendations could hinge on how the new committee operates—specifically, whether it prioritizes scientific integrity and transparency.

"The trust of the public is paramount, especially in a time where misinformation can spread rapidly. The new committee must engage openly with the community to ensure that our recommendations are clearly understood and scientifically backed," Dr. Maldonado stated.

Public Trust and Accountability

The role of ACIP is critical as it provides recommendations on vaccine safety, efficacy, and necessity to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Dr. Maldonado pointed out that restoring public trust will require more than just a leadership change; it demands ongoing accountability and clear communication about the rationale behind vaccination policies.

She added, "Removing seasoned members can be seen as a dramatic statement. It raises questions regarding the motivations behind such an abrupt change. Are we prioritizing diversity of thought, or merely reshuffling names? The committee needs to articulate its goals clearly to regain public confidence."

This transformation comes at a particularly sensitive time, as the world continues to grapple with the aftermath of global health crises and vaccine hesitancy. The upcoming decisions from the newly appointed ACIP members will undoubtedly be scrutinized.

The Future of ACIP

The future of ACIP and its effectiveness will be determined in the weeks and months to follow. Dr. Maldonado's insights shed light on the importance of maintaining a balanced and experienced team capable of addressing the complexities of immunization practices. The committee's ability to communicate its strategies and decisions transparently will be crucial in rebuilding trust among healthcare providers and the general public alike.

This interview will be made available on HealthDay and also shared via their Substack channel early Thursday afternoon. Dr. Maldonado's perspective is a vital contribution to the ongoing dialogue about vaccination policy and public health moving forward.

Conclusion

As we await the outcome of the ACIP's first meeting under new leadership, the importance of diverse, well-informed voices like Dr. Maldonado's cannot be overstated. The community looks to these individuals for guidance as health authorities strive to navigate the challenges of today's vaccination landscape, aiming to strengthen public confidence and ensure informed decisions are made regarding immunization practices.