CREATES Act

Alex Azar, a former 10-year executive of drug company Eli Lilly & Co., was sworn in as the new Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS). Azar served as Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Services under President George W. Bush. Supporters of his appointment see him as seasoned on industry matters and an experienced former HHS member. However, detractors challenge his ability to attack the primary issues facing HHS without bias. They note Azar’s significant time in the pharmaceutical industry and highlight former consultancy work at health insurance companies and biopharmaceuticals.