The US Senate has declared that celebrity doctor and former TV host Mehmet Oz will lead the agency. Additionally, he will administer the healthcare of millions of Americans.
President Donald Trump proposed Dr. Oz last year to head the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). however, Oz is inexperienced in public office, which might hinder his position. On Thursday, the Republican-controlled Senate approved his position in a party-line vote of 53-45.
Dr. Oz’s Current Healthcare Position
The 64-year-old Oz will be in charge of health insurance programs for the U.S. population, according to Senate confirmation. These programs also comprise Medicare, Medicaid, and the Affordable Care Act plans.
Oz assumes the new position as Congress is actively considering possible cuts to the Medicaid program. This program covers millions of disabled and low-income Americans. He has not yet stated whether he would oppose cuts to the government-funded healthcare policy.
Dr.Oz, instead, has outlined a vision focused on promoting healthier lifestyles. Significantly, he will be integrating artificial intelligence and telehealth into the healthcare system and rural areas.
Criticism and the CMS Lead
Health experts have previously criticized Dr. Oz for promoting what they consider to be harmful health advice. Significantly, this included weight-loss drugs and so-called “miracle cures.” Furthermore, they also faulted him for suggesting that malaria drugs could treat COVID-19 at the beginning of the pandemic.
Democrats Previously Claimed
Oz’s financial records indicated he may have failed to pay $403,739 in Medicare oversight taxes. However, a spokesperson for Oz stated that the Office of Government Ethics reviewed the matter, confirming he followed the law.
Despite all the previous criticism, Trump selected Oz as CMS lead, stating:
“There may be no physician more qualified and capable…to make America healthy again.”
Relations With The New Boss
Oz has built a strong relationship with his new boss, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. He frequently hosts the health secretary and his close associates at his Florida home.
Oz will take the leadership of CMS for Medicaid services just days after the agency avoided the severe budget cuts. They are said to have been imposed by Kennedy on other public health organizations.
Read Also: Federal Officials Cut $11.4B in COVID Funding for Health Depts
The Future of Dr. Oz
Mehmet Oz assumes his new position as leader of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Interestingly, he comes with both controversy and a vision of profound change. He, supported by President Trump and in close confluence with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., is condemned.
Despite all this, Oz has been cleared by the Office of Government Ethics. In addition, as he starts his term, everyone will be watching how he handles the issues of American healthcare. Visit Benefitsbystate.com for more insights.
