Additional Coverage:
Trump’s Pick for Medicare Chief Backs One-Size-Fits-All Healthcare
Dr. Mehmet Oz, President-elect Trump’s choice to head the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), has previously endorsed a healthcare plan that would eliminate employer-based insurance and Affordable Care Act coverage. Instead, it would put all Americans not on Medicaid into Medicare Advantage, which uses private plans to provide coverage.
Oz’s Healthcare Evolution
Oz’s views on healthcare have evolved over time. He initially supported Obamacare’s “safety net” but later criticized the Affordable Care Act. As a Senate candidate in 2022, he proposed expanding Medicare Advantage, calling it “popular” and “cost-effective.”
Concerns and Questions
Democrats are concerned about Oz’s appointment, fearing he may undermine Medicare and Medicaid. They point to Trump’s past efforts to repeal and replace Obamacare. Republicans are generally supportive of Oz, but some senators have expressed concerns about his past proposals, such as eliminating employer-based insurance.
Potential Changes to Medicare Advantage
If confirmed, Oz may push for more people to join Medicare Advantage. However, experts warn that this could limit patient choice and potentially deny coverage for necessary services. Some senators are also questioning the effectiveness of Medicare Advantage in addressing high healthcare costs.
Drug Prices and Medicaid
It remains unclear how Trump and Oz will approach drug prices, especially in light of the Inflation Reduction Act’s provisions to empower Medicare to negotiate lower prices. Republicans have generally opposed such measures. Additionally, some Republicans view Medicaid as a potential source of funding for Trump’s tax cut extension, raising concerns about potential cuts to the program.