Surgeon General Nominee Casey Means Advocates for Healing Focus

Dr. **Casey Means**, nominated by President **Donald Trump** to be the next Surgeon General of the United States, is set to emphasize a focus on “healing and prevention” in her upcoming confirmation testimony. This approach aims to counter what she describes as “overmedicalization” within the healthcare system. Her prepared statements, obtained by ABC News, outline her vision for promoting a healthier society.

Means, a graduate of **Stanford Medical School**, has a controversial background that has drawn scrutiny. She pursued a surgical residency at **Oregon Health and Science University** but did not complete it, citing disillusionment with the surgical practice. As a result, she is not board-certified, which limits her ability to practice medicine in a clinical setting. Presently, her medical license is listed as inactive.

In her confirmation hearing, scheduled for **January 29, 2025**, Means intends to articulate her commitment to guiding Americans toward better health. She aims to address chronic diseases and reshape the healthcare landscape by advocating for policies that make health resources more accessible and affordable. Means stated, “I believe every American shares a core yearning to thrive and help their families thrive.”

Commitments and Controversies

While Means has treated thousands of patients and operated her own medical practice, critics question her qualifications for the Surgeon General position. During her residency, she conducted surgeries under the supervision of an attending physician, but withdrawing from the program without graduation means she could not take the board certification exam.

In response to her nomination, Means pledged to resign from her advisory role at **Levels Health, Inc.**, a wellness company that offers subscription packages for health monitoring and coaching, costing between **$288 and $1,499** annually. She also committed to ceasing her work as a wellness influencer, which includes promoting supplements and her book, “Good Energy,” published last year.

Additionally, Means plans to divest from stocks in several companies, including **Altria Group**, known for producing Marlboro cigarettes. An official from the Department of Health and Human Services clarified that the stock was purchased by Means’ husband before their marriage.

Personal Insights and Future Vision

In her prepared remarks, Means expressed her desire to foster a national movement towards healing. She aims to inspire individuals to make healthier choices, despite the challenges posed by their environments. “Good policy and education can make health easier, more affordable, and more accessible,” she stated.

The nominee, who is currently over **40 weeks pregnant** with her first child, mentioned that her condition would prevent her from attending the confirmation hearing in person. Reflecting on her impending motherhood, she expressed a deep responsibility to advocate for a future in which children can enjoy vibrant health.

As Means prepares for her Senate hearing, her unique blend of experience and advocacy positions her as a polarizing figure in American healthcare. Whether her vision will resonate with lawmakers remains to be seen, but her commitment to “healing and prevention” marks a distinct path forward as she seeks to redefine the role of Surgeon General.