Reconsider Michigan's Health Alliance Alignment for Public Safety

I am writing to express my deep concern about Michigan's current health alliance affiliations and to urge you to consider aligning our state with the Northeast health alliance instead. This shift is crucial in light of recent developments that cast doubt on the reliability of federal health institutions. The Federal Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has recently made recommendations regarding the measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (MMRV) vaccine that have raised significant concerns. The West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA) has pointed out that ACIP did not adhere to standard scientific methods in their review process and failed to provide new safety or effectiveness data to support their recommendations. This lack of transparency and evidence-based decision-making is deeply troubling. Of particular concern is the potential limitation on parents' ability to choose between combined or separate vaccines for children under four. This restriction could have serious implications for families, especially those relying on the Vaccines for Children program. The American Academy of Pediatrics supports parental choice in this matter, and I believe Michigan should align with this stance. Given these issues, I fear that under the current leadership, including figures like RFK Jr., the FDA cannot be trusted to make decisions in the best interest of public health. The Northeast health alliance has demonstrated a more rigorous approach to health policy and a stronger commitment to evidence-based practices. By joining the Northeast health alliance, Michigan would benefit from: 1. A more transparent and scientifically sound review process for health recommendations 2. Greater protection of parental choice in vaccination schedules 3. Improved safeguards against potentially biased or politically influenced health policies I urge you to take immediate action to initiate discussions about Michigan joining the Northeast health alliance. This move would demonstrate our state's commitment to public health based on solid scientific evidence and respect for individual choice. The health and safety of Michigan's residents, especially our children, depend on making informed, scientifically-backed decisions. Please prioritize this issue and work towards aligning our state with partners who share our commitment to transparent, evidence-based health policies.