Key takeaways:
– Dr. Mehmet Oz might still endorse health products even after his government assignment.
– Oz is tied to major health tech firms, raising conflict-of-interest issues.
– Known for endorsing pseudoscience, his supplement promotions have drawn criticism from medical experts.
– Despite the backlash, Oz continues endorsing the alternative medicine industry.
– He has promoted treatments for Covid-19 form companies in which he owns shares.
Dr. Mehmet Oz, recently nominated by President Donald Trump to head the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare, has generated buzz with his latest social media posts. Many are questioning whether he will continue to support and promote questionable miracle cures, following his potential new role in government.
Questionable Ties with Health Tech Firms
Oz openly shares that he has a stake in, and serves as a global adviser to iHerb. It is an online store that carries a wide range of trusted health products. He even posted on social media saying that Thanksgiving is the perfect time for expressing gratitude, which is a known stress reliever. He further advocated the use of adaptogens, specifically ashwagandha, also known to lower stress levels. However, it is still unclear how Oz plans to manage his broad and notable financial ties with pharmaceutical and health tech industries once he takes over the helm of CMS.
Promotions Raise Eyebrows
CMS works closely with and regulates these companies, so this relationship raises potential conflict-of-interest issues. Despite the looming questions, it appears that the TV doctor does not have any issue with continuing to represent the alternative medicine sector that made him a millionaire. Critics have repeatedly called him out over the years for supporting pseudoscience and promoting supplements, including questionable diet pills.
Lucrative Deals Amidst Controversy
Oz has earned millions of dollars endorsing a supplement producer sued by its investors and accused of functioning as a kind of pyramid scheme. Yet, he doesn’t seem to mind the controversy.
Pandemic Response and Financial Gains
When Covid-19 made headlines, Oz appeared on TV guiding President Trump’s response to the crisis. He suggested hydroxychloroquine as a possible cure, although there was no solid evidence supporting this claim. Meanwhile, he held shares in a company that supplies the drug, raising eyebrows once again.
In summary, Dr. Oz’s nomination has raised concerns and drawn attention to his questionable endorsements. He continues to advocate for unproven health supplements and treatments. All while having substantial financial ties to pharmaceutical and tech companies. Whether he plans to disengage from these before assuming his potential role as CMS administrator is still a mystery. Until then, one thing is clear: he remains a prominent figure in promoting alternative medicine, even in the face of potential conflicts of interest and widespread criticism.