Access to Vaccine Safety Data

Researchers outside the CDC can apply for access to VSD data by submitting study proposals. The Geiers had previously gained access but faced restrictions at least twice, as reported by the Journal. In 2004, the CDC revoked their access after determining that they misrepresented their intentions in their original proposal. They were barred again in 2006.

Currently, Geier, now an employee at HHS, is attempting to regain access to the data. The Journal indicates that Kennedy has assigned researchers from the National Institutes of Health to assist Geier, who have sent a request to the CDC for all VSD data. This request has reportedly raised concerns at the CDC and across healthcare sites nationwide, particularly regarding the security of private patient information.

It remains unclear if Geier has been granted access to the data again. However, sources familiar with the situation informed the Journal that Geier plans to reanalyze the CDC’s data on thimerosal in an effort to establish a link to autism. Additionally, he seems intent on proving allegations of corrupt practices within the CDC.

During a hearing in May, Kennedy, who also promotes the discredited view that vaccines lead to autism, defended Geier. He stated that there has been “a lot of monkey business with the VSD” and labeled Geier as “the only living independent scientist” capable of verifying whether the data has been tampered with. (Hassan pointed out that Geier doesn’t hold a scientific title.) Kennedy also claimed incorrectly that a court had overturned the medical board’s verdict that he practiced medicine without a license, awarding Geier $5 million.

This claim is inaccurate. Kennedy might have been referencing a lawsuit Mark Geier filed against the medical board regarding a 2012 cease-and-desist order that accused him of improperly prescribing medication for his family while his medical license was suspended. Geier argued that the order was malicious, as it included personal information about the medications prescribed. A Circuit Court ruled in favor of the Geiers, awarding them nearly $5 million in total. However, this decision and award were overturned on appeal in 2019.