The Department of Health and Human Services is reportedly considering two new FDA deputy commissioner positions:
one focused on technology and artificial intelligence, and another overseeing drugs.
The proposed technology deputy would handle the FDA’s internal use of AI as well as reviews of AI-enabled medical products.
Jared Seehafer, a senior FDA adviser and former life-sciences technology executive, is reportedly the leading candidate for the technology post. No leading candidate has been identified for the drugs role.
Both positions would report to President Donald Trump’s FDA commissioner nominee, Dr. Heidi Overton, who still requires Senate confirmation.
The plans are preliminary:
sources told CNBC that no final decisions or formal announcements have been made. The reported restructuring could give HHS and the White House greater influence over FDA operations.
Overton, a White House domestic-policy aide and physician, was chosen after former FDA Commissioner Marty Makary resigned in May. Her nomination is expected to face scrutiny over her qualifications and the administration’s vaccine and drug-regulation policies.
Sources:
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