Then see what branch is under Kathleen Sebelius www.hhs.gov, scroll to HHS Family of Agencies (show details)
click AHRQ- site www.ahrq.gov
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality
click contact us - www.ahrq.gov/clinic/uspstfix.htm#About
this will be U.S. Preventative Task Force
then click Frequently Asked Questions:
1-11
click #10 - Question: Who Uses UPSTF recommendations?
See answer; primary physicians and healthcare insurers
I believe the Sec. of HHS knows the independent panel - because it is right under her governmental department.
Margie
DCIS
Met to Liver 11/08
NED since 1/09
Vaccine
Teacher, Master in Lib. Inf. Science
Mother of 2, son engineer major and daughter, nursing major
(I worked in the government and know a little something about
chain of command in the government branches)