FR 2025-04779

The document under discussion is an amended notice of a meeting organized by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), specifically the HIV/AIDS Intra- and Inter-personal Determinants and Behavioral Interventions Study Section. The meeting is scheduled for April 24 to April 25, 2025, at the NIH facilities in Bethesda, Maryland. This amendment changes the contact person for the meeting from Mark Rubert, Ph.D., to Joann Wu Shortt, Ph.D. The notice also specifies that the meeting will be closed to the public.

Summary and Context

The notice primarily serves to inform stakeholders and those interested that there is a change in personnel concerning the management of this meeting. While the change concerns internal administrative details, it reflects the NIH's diligence in updating public records to ensure accurate contact information is available. This specificity helps maintain orderly communication processes within these critical research discussions focused on HIV/AIDS, a significant public health issue.

Significant Issues and Concerns

1. Lack of Detailed Agenda: The document does not provide specific information regarding the agenda or purpose of the meeting. This omission may result in a lack of understanding of what the meeting aims to achieve or discuss. Greater transparency regarding meeting content could enhance understanding and trust with the public and stakeholders.

2. Confidentiality Concerns: The meeting is closed to the public without an explanation of why this is necessary. While confidentiality in meetings involving sensitive research data is often warranted, an explanation justifying this decision could prevent misunderstandings and reassure stakeholders about NIH's commitment to transparency.

3. Significance of Contact Change: The principal amendment relates to the change in the contact person. While this is a minor logistical detail, the notice does not provide information on any broader implications, if any, resulting from this alteration.

4. Absence of an Abstract: The lack of an abstract in the notice means there is no brief overview of the meeting's objectives and significance. An abstract is beneficial as it provides a quick and accessible summary for all readers, facilitating better understanding and engagement.

Broader Public Impact

For the general public, particularly those affected by or involved with HIV/AIDS research and intervention strategies, this notice may carry limited direct impact due to its technical and administrative nature. However, the meeting itself is a crucial part of ongoing research and development in public health strategies against HIV/AIDS, which has broad societal implications.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

• Researchers and Academics: This document is primarily relevant to researchers and academics closely monitoring NIH activities and programs related to HIV/AIDS. The change in contact can facilitate better communication and coordination for those involved in such studies.

• Patient Advocacy Groups: Advocacy groups may express concern about the closed nature of the meeting. Insight into such high-level discussions can be vital for shaping advocacy efforts and ensuring that patient needs are being considered.

• Health Policy Makers: While the notice does not delve into policy implications, policymakers may nonetheless monitor such meetings to glean insights about future directions in public health priorities and funding.

In conclusion, while the document mainly addresses logistical matters, it is a reminder of the ongoing efforts by the NIH to advance HIV/AIDS understanding and treatment. Ensuring clarity and transparency in communication, even in administrative updates, can bolster public confidence and engagement.