Donald Trump Names Tom Price as Future Health Secretary

Donald Trump has named Tom Price as his future health secretary.

The 62-year-old Georgia congressman and orthopedic surgeon is a strong critic of President Barack Obama’s healthcare reforms.

He currently chairs the House of Representatives budget committee.

Tom Price will play a key role in Republican plans to replace the Affordable Healthcare Act (ObamaCare).a

In his campaign, Donald Trump vowed to repeal and replace the act, considered Barack Obama’s flagship measure.

However, he has since said he favors keeping certain provisions.

Donald Trump said Tom Price was a “tireless problem solver” and “the go-to expert on healthcare policy”.

“He is exceptionally qualified to shepherd our commitment to repeal and replace ObamaCare and bring affordable and accessible healthcare to every American,” the president-elect said in a statement.

Tom Price said he was looking forward to the opportunity of serving as health secretary on behalf of the American people.

He said his aim was to create a new system that worked for patients, families and doctors, adding that it should “protect the well-being of the country while embracing its innovative spirit”.

Tom Price will be working closely with Seema Verma, who will lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, which oversees government health programs and insurance standards.

“Together, Chairman Price and Seema Verma are the dream team that will transform our healthcare system,” Donald Trump said.

Earlier this month Donald Trump, who has pledged to repeal the healthcare bill, said he would keep some parts of the law such as allowing young adults to be insured on their parents’ policies and banning insurers from denying coverage for pre-existing conditions.