President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Dr. Mehmet Oz to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the federal agency overseeing health insurance programs for over 150 million Americans. Trump expressed confidence in Oz's ability to enhance healthcare quality and efficiency, emphasizing a focus on disease prevention and reducing waste and fraud within the agency.

Dr. Oz, a cardiothoracic surgeon and television personality, gained national recognition through "The Dr. Oz Show," which aired from 2009 to 2022. He previously served on the Presidential Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition under the Trump administration. In 2022, Oz ran for the U.S. Senate in Pennsylvania with Trump's endorsement but was defeated by Democrat John Fetterman.

If confirmed, Oz will oversee major programs including Medicare, Medicaid, and the Affordable Care Act exchanges. His support for Medicare Advantage, a privatized Medicare option, aligns with some conservative healthcare reform proposals but has faced criticism from those concerned about its impact on traditional Medicare.

Reactions to Oz's nomination are divided. Senator Bill Cassidy, a physician and incoming chair of the Senate Health Committee, praised the choice, noting the benefit of having a medical professional in the role. Conversely, Representative Frank Pallone Jr., a Democrat, criticized the nomination, citing concerns over Oz's experience and past promotion of unproven medical treatments.

This nomination continues Trump's pattern of selecting high-profile individuals for key positions, including Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for Secretary of Health and Human Services. Both nominations are subject to Senate confirmation.