Keroack selection = ideology over science

Once again the president has shown his complete disregard for science with the selection of Eric Keroack to oversee HHS's $283 million reproductive-health program. The appointment of an anti-birth control advocate to a key health post shows complete disregard for the health and safety of underserved communities, says Planned Parenthood Federation of America.

In a statement issued by Planned Parenthood President Cecile Richards, she says:

"The appointment of anti-birth control, anti-sex education advocate Dr. Eric Keroack to oversee the nation's family planning program is striking proof that the Bush administration remains dramatically out of step with the nation's priorities. Keroack was the medical director of five so-called "crisis pregnancy centers," whose policy was not "to distribute or encourage the use of contraception." This politically motivated appointment is certainly not in the health interest of women and families.

"Last week Americans overwhelmingly rejected an extremist agenda, and sent a clear message by choosing candidates who make women's health care a priority. For three decades, Title X has fostered healthy families by helping millions of American women plan and space their children through access to birth control services."

Keroack is clearly a poor choice to lead HHS's Office of Population Affairs, which funds birth control, pregnancy tests, counseling and screenings for sexually transmitted disease and HIV. The Washington Post reports that fourteen Democratic senators sent a letter to HHS Secretary Mike Leavitt, urging him to withdraw Keroack's appointment. The job doesn't require Senate confirmation.

"Unfortunately, this appointment is another example of the administration allowing ideology to trump science, and it could jeopardize vital services on which large numbers of women and families depend," the letter said. Signers included incoming Senate Majority Leader Harry M. Reid (D-Nev.) and Sen. Edward M. Kennedy (D-Mass.), who will be chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee.

HHS spokeswoman Christina Pearson is sending mixed messages about just how "qualified" Keroack is for the job. Pearson recently acknowledged that Keroack is not currently certified as an obstetrician-gynecologist. That is not a requirement for the job, but HHS officials had cited Keroack's expertise in defending his selection.

The Washington Post, 11/21/2006:

An HHS spokeswoman said Keroack is a skilled doctor and a nationally recognized expert on preventing teenage pregnancy. "We have confidence that he'll perform his duties effectively and in accordance with the law," HHS spokeswoman Christina Pearson said by e-mail.

The Washington Post, 11/17/2006:

John O. Agwunobi, assistant secretary for health, said Keroack "is highly qualified and a well-respected physician . . . working primarily with women and girls in crisis."

Bush clearly intends to continue to reek havoc for women. Hurry up 2008 -- the end of an error!