Healthcare DIVE April 16, 2021
A nomination hearing for two top HHS officials Thursday appeared to go smoothly, with agreement among the nominees and lawmakers on the importance of improving access to telehealth and mental healthcare as well as working with states on Medicaid waivers.
The scene was a contrast to the sometimes heated questioning of HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, who was eventually confirmed by a narrow margin.
Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden of Oregon praised President Joe Biden’s pick for CMS administrator, Chaquita Brooks-LaSure, and the nominee for HHS deputy secretary, Andrea Palm, as having “impeccable” backgrounds.
“My bottom line is these are two individuals who are extraordinarily qualified for these essential positions and would be ready to go on day one,”...