President Donald Trump selected Scott Gottlieb, MD, a physician well-seasoned in government service, as FDA commissioner, according to Medscape.
Here are five things to know:
1. Dr. Gottlieb was a senior adviser to the FDA commissioner from 2003 to 2004.
2. He also served as the agency's deputy commissioner for medical and scientific affairs from 2005 to 2007.
3. While serving as a senior adviser to CMS, Dr. Gottlieb was instrumental in implementing the Medicare Part D drug program, Medscape reports.
4. Dr. Gottlieb is a resident fellow at Washington, D.C.-based American Enterprise Institute, which is known for its conservative views. Watchdog group Public Citizen has advocated for the Senate to reject President Trump's pick. Michael Carome, MD, director of Public Citizen's healthcare division, said Dr. Gottlieb has "long been beholden to Big Pharma," according to Medscape.
5. The Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions committee will hold a meeting regarding Dr. Gottlieb's confirmation. Following the hearing, the committee will vote on whether to recommend the full Senate to approve Dr. Gottlieb as FDA head.