Senate Confirms Dr. Mehmet Oz to Lead Healthcare Oversight Agency

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Dr. Mehmet Oz, a former television host and cardiac surgeon, was confirmed by the U.S. Senate on Thursday to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), overseeing the healthcare of approximately half of Americans.

Oz, nominated by President Donald Trump, received a party-line vote of 53-45 from the Republican-controlled Senate. Trump praised Oz in a statement, saying there “may be no physician more qualified and capable to make America healthy again.” This confirmation comes as the healthcare agency faces critical budget discussions and potential cuts to Medicaid programs.

Oz, 64, has a history as a controversial figure in health discourse, having trained as a surgeon before becoming a public figure on The Oprah Winfrey Show. Throughout his career, he has faced criticism for endorsing alternative treatments and what some health experts classify as “pseudoscience.” Specifically, he was scrutinized early in the COVID-19 pandemic for suggesting the use of malaria drugs as treatment.

The CMS plays a pivotal role in regulating health insurance and policy matters for Medicare and Medicaid, distributing approximately $1.4 trillion in federal funds in 2023 alone, as reported by the Congressional Budget Office.

During his confirmation hearing, Oz discussed goals for improving healthcare accessibility while integrating technology, such as artificial intelligence and telehealth. “We have to make some important decisions to improve the quality of care,” Oz said, emphasizing the need to enhance resources for Medicaid providers.

Oz’s vision includes promoting healthier lifestyles and rethinking the delivery of healthcare, particularly in rural areas. He has noted dissatisfaction among doctors regarding Medicaid reimbursements, stating, “When Medicaid eligibility was expanded without improving resources for doctors, that made care options even thinner for the program’s core patients.”

In addition to his policy plans, Oz’s relationship with U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has drawn attention. He has frequently hosted Kennedy and his associates at his home in Florida and aligns closely with Kennedy’s initiative, the “Make America Healthy Again” (Maha) campaign, which focuses on food supply and vaccine policies.

While some healthcare advocates have expressed concerns regarding Oz’s promotion of unproven supplements and holistic treatments, he continues to support vaccination efforts across the country.

Oz’s new role comes as CMS aims to navigate significant budget cuts, with his appointment following layoffs affecting thousands of staff at other health agencies, including the FDA and CDC.

On the same day, a federal judge indicated a temporary injunction to prevent sweeping cuts to federal funding supporting pandemic-related health initiatives. U.S. District Judge Mary McElroy remarked on the strength of the states’ case opposing the cuts, which could destabilize public health infrastructure across the nation. The lawsuit filed by 23 states and the District of Columbia challenges an $11 billion cut, claiming it jeopardizes essential public health services.