Johns Hopkins’ renowned surgical oncologist and prolific researcher, Dr. Martin Makary, is set to be nominated as the next Commissioner of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), according to recent news reports and an official statement from President-elect Donald Trump.
Dr. Martin Makary
This significant nomination, pending confirmation by the U.S. Senate, would place Dr. Makary at the helm of the crucial federal agency responsible for safeguarding public health through the regulation and supervision of a vast sector of the American economy. The FDA’s purview includes ensuring the safety and effectiveness of human and veterinary drugs, biological products, and medical devices. Furthermore, the agency is tasked with maintaining the safety of the nation’s food supply and cosmetics, and regulating the manufacturing, marketing, and distribution of tobacco products. The FDA plays a massive role, overseeing approximately one-fifth of the U.S. economy and operating as a key component of the Department of Health and Human Services.
Johns Hopkins Medicine released a statement acknowledging the nomination, stating, “Dr. Makary’s extensive work as a surgeon and public policy researcher demonstrates his professional commitment and leadership in the medical field. We congratulate him on his nomination and the opportunity to work with the exceptional team at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as the agency’s next commissioner.”
Dr. Makary’s Stance on Healthcare Practices
Dr. Makary has established himself as a prominent voice in discussions surrounding U.S. healthcare practices. He is a vocal advocate for measures aimed at reducing healthcare costs, minimizing unnecessary medical procedures, and preventing medical errors. His perspectives have significantly contributed to national conversations on healthcare reform and patient safety.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Makary offered insights and critiques on the nation’s public health response. While he was an early proponent of universal masking and vaccination efforts, he also raised concerns regarding vaccine mandates, prolonged school closures, the use of masks for young children, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for school reopenings. His commentary often sparked debate and provided alternative viewpoints amidst the evolving pandemic landscape.
Criticisms of NIH and FDA Bureaucracy
Dr. Makary has been critical of the operational efficiency and responsiveness of key health agencies. In a May 2022 study published in BMJ Open, he argued that the National Institutes of Health (NIH) demonstrated sluggishness in funding critical COVID-19 clinical studies during the pandemic’s peak. He has also voiced concerns about bureaucratic hurdles within the FDA.
In a Fox News opinion piece from October 2021, Dr. Makary expressed strong views on the FDA’s leadership and processes, stating, “COVID has given us a clear-eyed look at a broken Food and Drug Administration that’s mired in politics and red tape. Americans can now see why medical advances often move at turtle speed. We need fresh leadership at the FDA to change the culture at the agency and promote scientific advancement, not hinder it.”
Expertise and Accomplishments of Dr. Makary
Dr. Makary’s primary specialization is surgical oncology, and he serves as the Chief of Islet Transplant Surgery at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. He also holds a faculty appointment at the Johns Hopkins Carey Business School, highlighting his interdisciplinary expertise. Furthermore, he directs the Evidence-based Medicine and Public Policy Research Group, underscoring his commitment to rigorous, data-driven approaches in healthcare.
A highly productive scholar, Dr. Makary has authored over 300 scientific articles, contributing significantly to medical literature. His current research interests are centered on understanding the root causes of disease, addressing the healthcare needs of vulnerable populations, and evaluating the appropriateness of medical care practices. His distinguished career includes membership in the National Academy of Medicine and prior leadership within the World Health Organization’s patient safety program, showcasing his global influence in public health.
Beyond his academic and medical achievements, Dr. Makary is a three-time New York Times best-selling author. His books, including Unaccountable (2013), The Price We Pay: What Broke American Health Care—and How to Fix It (2019), and Blind Spots: When Medicine Gets it Wrong and What it Means for our Health (2023), have reached wide audiences. The Price We Pay was recognized as the 2020 Business Book of the Year by the Association of Business Journalists, further solidifying his impact on public discourse regarding healthcare.
