Sat Apr 05 01:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Controversial TV Doctor Mehmet Oz Confirmed to Lead US Healthcare Agency
**Washington D.C.** – The US Senate has confirmed Dr. Mehmet Oz to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the agency overseeing healthcare for roughly half of all Americans. The 53-45 party-line vote, along strictly partisan lines, concludes a contentious confirmation process for the celebrity physician and former television host.
Oz, appointed by President Donald Trump, faces significant criticism for his past promotion of unproven medical treatments and alternative medicine on his long-running television show, “The Dr. Oz Show.” Health experts have voiced concerns over his endorsement of weight-loss products and suggestions regarding the use of malaria drugs to treat Covid-19. Democrats also raised questions regarding potential unpaid Medicare taxes. While Oz’s spokesperson maintains compliance with the law, a review of his financial records remains a point of contention.
Despite these controversies, President Trump lauded Oz’s qualifications, stating that there is “no physician more qualified and capable… to make America healthy again.” The CMS, with its vast budget exceeding $1.4 trillion annually, regulates health insurance and sets policy impacting the cost of healthcare services. Oz’s appointment comes at a time of considerable debate surrounding healthcare costs and access in the United States. His leadership of CMS is expected to be closely scrutinized given his controversial background.
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