East Idaho Times

U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo addressed the nomination of Mehmet Oz for the position of Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) during a hearing in Washington, D.C.

In his prepared remarks, Crapo expressed gratitude to Dr. Oz for his willingness to serve and highlighted the thorough vetting process conducted by the committee. "Thank you, Dr. Oz, for being here today and for your willingness to serve as the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Administrator," Crapo stated.

Crapo acknowledged Dr. Oz's cooperation throughout the nomination process: "You have provided significant amounts of documentation to substantiate your tax return positions and followed all applicable law." He praised Dr. Oz's professionalism and looked forward to their continued collaboration.

Addressing CMS's role, Crapo noted its perceived complexity but emphasized Dr. Oz's relevant experience: "Dr. Oz, you offer a wealth of firsthand experience and expertise, having studied, practiced and taught as an accomplished physician."

The responsibilities associated with CMS were underscored by Crapo as he described it as "the world’s largest health insurer," managing programs like Medicare, Medicaid, and the Children's Health Insurance Program which cover millions of Americans.

Crapo also highlighted projected growth in the Medicare-aged population over the next 25 years and stressed that sustainable policymaking will require collaboration: "Ensuring sustainable, stable and proactive rules of the road for these programs will necessitate a collaborative and constructive approach."

The Chairman touched on key issues such as prescription drug affordability and clinician payment system reform. He referenced bipartisan efforts in Congress aimed at achieving these goals alongside pharmaceutical benefit manager reform—a priority under President Trump.

Furthermore, Crapo pointed out opportunities presented by technological advancements like telehealth to improve healthcare delivery in rural areas such as Idaho.

Concluding his remarks, Crapo expressed confidence in Dr. Oz's ability to contribute positively based on his background: "I look forward to learning more about your vision for how we can work together to strengthen our health care system for patients, providers and taxpayers."