The Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) continues its unwavering mission to improve care for critically ill and injured patients and is working diligently to represent your concerns.
In a time of uncertainty and concern surrounding recent U.S. Presidential executive orders and disrupted health-related government operations, I want to acknowledge the frustration and anxieties shared by many SCCM members around the world. Be assured that the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) continues its unwavering mission to improve care for critically ill and injured patients and is working diligently to represent your concerns.
U.S. Executive Order Brings Major Changes to Research Grant Processes and Oversight
On August 7, 2025, the U.S. administration issued
Executive Order 14332 (Improving Oversight of Federal Grantmaking). The order will significantly change how federal agencies review, approve, and manage research funding.
Key elements of the new framework include:
- Increased oversight by senior political appointees, with a shift away from traditional peer review as the sole determinant of grant awards
- Subjecting all grants, including ongoing awards, to revised termination clauses permitting cancellation for “convenience”
- Stricter requirements for approval and documentation of each funding disbursement
- Emphasis on cost control, with potential limits on indirect costs and overhead
- Prohibitions on funding for certain activities or topics, as specified in the order
Researchers and institutions that rely on the U.S. government for funding should anticipate changes to grant applications, review, and management processes, as well as possible amendments to existing awards. SCCM is monitoring these developments and will provide updates as federal agencies implement the new requirements. While this order originates in the United States, its effects may ripple globally—shaping collaborations, setting precedents, and influencing the research environment for critical care professionals everywhere.
The Importance of Scientific Integrity in Policy
These policy shifts highlight why SCCM continues to insist that medical recommendations be grounded in peer-reviewed science. This rigorous process is apolitical and is the gold standard for scientific research, acting as a crucial form of quality control to deliver optimal care for our patients. Without it, medical advice could be based on flawed, biased, or even dangerous information. In our communications with government officials, we have stressed that all policies, especially those affecting public health, must be grounded in vetted and reliable evidence.
For example, we partnered with more than 100 organizations in stating our concerns about the
Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the importance of trust in safe and effective vaccines. We have also recently joined with other organizations to
promote respiratory virus vaccinations directly to the American public.
While some of the administration's new policies, such as those concerning vaccines or acetaminophen, might not seem directly related to critical care, their rapid implementation and lack of scientific basis put our critically ill patients at risk. We recognize that these policies often face legal challenges and can change, but we believe that the underlying concerns and their broad implications require our constant vigilance and active engagement.
Regardless of any shifts in government policy or funding, SCCM remains steadfast in its mission to advance critical care worldwide using solid scientific evidence to support the bedside care of critically ill and injured patients.
Supporting Our Community and Collaborating for Change
We also recognize the significant personal impact of these developments. Many of our members, colleagues, and friends are experiencing disruption, including those working in federal institutions and in resource-limited settings where funding is critical. SCCM is committed to supporting everyone affected.
To amplify our impact and promote meaningful change, we are working collaboratively with other professional organizations, including the Critical Care Societies Collaborative, the Council of Medical Specialty Societies, and the American Medical Association. For example, earlier this summer we wrote to U.S. Senate leadership regarding the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule and in another communication requested that the Presidential Advisory Council on Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria (PACCARB) meet as soon as possible to address antimicrobial resistance.
In fact, throughout the year we have communicated in writing and during meetings with agency leaders about numerous issues that affect critical care professionals and their patients. By speaking with a unified voice, we can more effectively address challenges as they arise.
The Society’s strength lies in the knowledge, skills, and science of its members and partners based on a long history of verified and confirmed research and education efforts published and passed on by generations of experts, investigators, and dedicated bedside clinicians. Our commitment to improving care for critically ill and injured patients is unwavering. Regardless of the sudden and erratic changes we are seeing, SCCM will remain a trusted source of information, education, connection, and support for all critical care professionals and we will continue our engagement with various government agencies and elected officials.
How You Can Help
No matter where you live or work, your voice matters. You can:
- Speak up: Share your concerns with local health leaders, institutions, or elected officials.
- Tell your story: Personal experiences—especially those that affect patient care—can drive change.
- Stay informed: Follow updates from SCCM and other trusted sources.
- Support science: Advocate for policies based on peer-reviewed evidence.
- Connect with others: Collaborate with colleagues locally and globally to amplify impact.
For members in the United States, you can also contact your representatives directly by calling, emailing, or writing letters. A short, respectful message that includes facts and personal impact can go a long way.
You can always reach out to me at
president@sccm.org with your ideas on how we can work more effectively to address these rapidly developing issues. Your creative suggestions are most welcome.
Thank you for your dedication to the Society, to critical care, and to the patients and families we serve each day.
