WASHINGTON, D.C. — Martin A. Makary, M.D., M.P.H., a distinguished surgeon, researcher, and health policy leader, was officially sworn in on April 1 as the 27th Commissioner of Food and Drugs. His appointment follows confirmation by the U.S. Senate, earning bipartisan support.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. welcomed the new commissioner, highlighting his credentials and experience. “He is a national leader in medicine with impeccable credentials. His extensive research, clinical experience, and national leadership make him uniquely qualified to lead the FDA as we work together to Make America Healthy Again,” Secretary Kennedy said.
An Extensive Career in Medicine
Dr. Makary’s career spans decades, marked by groundbreaking work in surgery, public health, and health policy. He is the founder of the Johns Hopkins Center for Surgical Trials and Outcomes Research and has authored over 300 peer-reviewed medical articles. Known globally for co-developing the Surgery Checklist, a tool widely adopted in operating rooms, Dr. Makary’s contributions to advancing patient safety have had a lasting impact.
His areas of research include cancer care, obesity, antimicrobial resistance, and Alzheimer’s disease. A renowned author, he has penned several best-selling books on healthcare, such as “Unaccountable” and “The Price We Pay”, which discuss the need for transparency and solutions to rising healthcare costs.
Dr. Makary, a graduate of Bucknell University, earned his Medical Doctorate from Thomas Jefferson University and a Master of Public Health from Harvard University. He completed a surgical residency at Georgetown University and a fellowship in surgical oncology at Johns Hopkins University, where he later became a full professor and chaired the division of gastrointestinal surgery.
Vision for the FDA
Addressing his role, Dr. Makary stated, “I am honored and humbled to assume this role at the FDA under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Kennedy. I look forward to working with this Administration and the FDA workforce to advance our shared goals in meeting the agency’s public health mission. As Commissioner, I hope to ensure that the FDA holds to the gold standard of trusted science, transparency, and common sense so that we can Make America Healthy Again.”
Responsibilities and Challenges
As FDA Commissioner, Dr. Makary assumes oversight of a diverse portfolio, including ensuring the safety and effectiveness of drugs, medical devices, food, and tobacco products. He will also oversee efforts to combat emerging public health challenges, such as the rise of antimicrobial resistance and the precarious balance between fostering innovation in biotechnology and ensuring consumer protection.
Dr. Makary’s leadership comes at a critical juncture for the FDA, as the agency navigates public health challenges and advances its mission to regulate billions of dollars’ worth of products impacting consumer health and safety. His appointment signifies a renewed focus on evidence-based practices, fiscal transparency, and driving innovation while addressing the immediate health needs of the nation.
A Legacy of Leadership
Dr. Makary’s election to the National Academy of Medicine and contributions to the World Health Organization’s Patient Safety Program highlight his dedication to improving global health outcomes. His appointment as FDA Commissioner reflects a decisive choice to bring expertise in both clinical practice and health policy to one of the nation’s most important regulatory bodies.
With a career that bridges academic research, clinical innovation, and health equity advocacy, Dr. Makary begins his term positioned to redefine the FDA’s role in advancing public health. His leadership will shape the agency’s ability to address evolving challenges while maintaining its reputation as the global gold standard for regulatory science.
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