Bush nominates FDA chief for top CMS slot

Washington -- The Medicare reform law passed in November 2003, but the long, hard task of implementing the measure is just beginning. That responsibility falls to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services -- currently an agency without a leader.

But that could change soon. President Bush has nominated Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Mark McClellan, MD, PhD, to fill the vacancy left by Tom Scully's December 2003 departure. Dr. McClellan's move is contingent upon Senate approval. The Bush administration is urging speedy action.

"We will be moving forward quickly on this nomination because it's a very important priority to make sure we are implementing the improvements in the Medicare legislation to help our seniors get the best possible medical care," said Scott McClellan, White House press secretary and Dr. McClellan's brother.

Sen. Chuck Grassley (R, Iowa), chair of the Senate Finance Committee, said he would schedule a hearing on the nomination soon.

"Dr. McClellan is well-regarded on Capitol Hill, and his background and expertise make him a strong nominee," Grassley said. Before moving to the FDA, Dr. McClellan -- an economist -- served as the top White House health adviser and as a member of Bush's Council of Economic Advisers.

But Democrats could be critical of Dr. McClellan's strong support of White House efforts to turn more of the responsibility for health care coverage over to the private sector.

Beyond Capitol Hill, many groups reacted favorably to the nomination.

"The AMA is confident that Dr. McClellan will bring the same tireless energy to his work at CMS as he did to the FDA," said AMA President Donald J. Palmisano, MD.

If Dr. McClellan's promotion is approved, FDA Deputy Commissioner Les Crawford would take over as acting head of the agency, a position he has held before.