The COVD-19 pandemic has shown in bold relief our lack of national preparedness in the realm of public health emergencies. As the current pandemic evolves, we need to be prepared for more twists and turns with new variants emerging. This will require at least two essential ingredients: a clear vision of the types of medical interventions needed and leaders who are empowered to refine and execute that vision. That is why it is urgent to confirm a commissioner for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
For the past year, the FDA has been under the direction of Acting FDA Commissioner Dr. Janet Woodcock — a highly qualified and committed leader, with decades of experience and a deep understanding of science — but an acting commissioner nonetheless. Our experience in Washington has shown that any person with “acting” in their title is by nature limited in their ability to implement innovations to enhance the agency’s work, regardless of qualifications.
Source: The Hill
https://thehill.com/opinion/healthcare/592828-confirming-the-next-fda-commissioner-is-a-matter-of-national-preparedness
