East Idaho Times

U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered remarks at an executive session to discuss the nomination of Dr. Mehmet Oz for the role of Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

During his prepared statement, Crapo emphasized that the meeting aimed to consider favorably reporting Dr. Oz's nomination. He mentioned that members would have a chance to make remarks about Dr. Oz's candidacy and that details regarding the time and location for voting would be provided later.

Crapo highlighted Dr. Oz's extensive experience as a physician and public health advocate, stating that this background makes him "uniquely qualified" to manage CMS's complexities. At his hearing, Dr. Oz outlined his vision for ensuring CMS delivers excellent care, particularly to vulnerable patients, which Crapo looks forward to supporting if Dr. Oz is confirmed.

Crapo also noted that he was encouraged by Dr. Oz’s commitment to modernizing federal healthcare programs, addressing issues in the clinician payment system, and collaborating with Congress on pharmaceutical benefit manager reform.

Expressing confidence in Dr. Oz’s ability to bring necessary changes at CMS, Crapo stated his intention to vote in favor of the nomination and urged bipartisan support from his colleagues.