President-elect Donald Trump nominated Dr. Mehmet Oz to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), sparking criticism due to Oz’s history of promoting unproven medical treatments and his lack of government experience.

Trump announced the decision on Truth Social, stating that Oz would work with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Health and Human Services nominee, to address chronic diseases.

Oz, a cardiothoracic surgeon and former TV host, faced backlash for endorsing controversial treatments like hydroxychloroquine during the COVID-19 pandemic and for promoting unscientific health advice, NPR has reported.

Critics, including lawmakers and health experts, expressed concerns over Oz’s qualifications and his support for Medicare privatization, warning of potential negative impacts on federal healthcare programs serving 155 million Americans.

Written by B.C. Begley