EmbeddingGemma 2: an open, lightweight multimodal embedding model
deepmind.google·6d ago
AI Engineering
Hacker News·Aug 19·5 min read
"Sabotage": Experts, lawmakers blast RFK Jr. for destroying healthcare research
TL;DR
Experts warn that the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) is on the brink of collapse due to severe budget cuts and staff reductions, jeopardizing vital healthcare research. Over 100 research grants worth more than $250 million have been canceled, halting progress in improving healthcare quality and safety.
✦ Why It Matters
Contact your congressional representatives to advocate for increased funding for healthcare research today.
Key Takeaways
- Advocate for healthcare research funding with your local representatives.
- Stay informed about AHRQ's funding status and its impact on research.
- Support initiatives that aim to improve healthcare quality and safety.
- Engage with the scientific community to understand ongoing research challenges.
Full Summary
The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) has been crucial in enhancing patient safety and healthcare quality since the 1990s. However, under the Trump administration, AHRQ's staff has been reduced by 75%, and approximately 150 research grants have been canceled, affecting scientists across 30 states.
Despite Congress allocating $345 million for the 2026 fiscal year, only $15 million has been utilized for grants, leaving many researchers unable to continue their work. Health policy experts Aaron Carroll and David Atkins express profound concern over the loss of data and the future of health services research.
They argue that reversing the damage is possible but will require significant effort and congressional action to restore funding and support for healthcare research.