Skip to content

FDA Commissioner Nominee Dr. Stephen Hahn Focused on Science, Independence, and What is Best for Patients During Confirmation Hearing

FDA Commissioner Nominee Dr. Stephen Hahn Focused on Science, Independence, and What is Best for Patients During Confirmation Hearing

Washington, DC – November 20, 2019 – Today, Dr. Stephen Hahn, President Trump’s nominee to be the next Commissioner of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), appeared before the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pension Committee (HELP) and answered wide-ranging questions relating to the many important roles the Commissioner must oversee.

 

“The FDA plays a critical role in protecting and promoting health – a mission that impacts all Americans,” said Dr. Ellen Sigal, Chair and Founder of Friends of Cancer Research (Friends). “A confirmed Commissioner with the upmost scientific integrity and a direct understanding of patients’ needs is a necessity to fulfill that mission. Dr. Hahn showed today he has a strong focus on advancing innovation, improving public health, and doing what is right by patients. We hope the Senate moves quickly on his confirmation.”

 

Friends recognizes that the next Commissioner will lead the agency at a pivotal time. We look forward to working with FDA to address immediate priorities that include:

  • Implementing the necessary quality assurances for diagnostic test oversight;
  • Developing a framework for cutting-edge individualized technologies like cell and gene therapies;
  • Ensuring the accuracy of drug labels over time; and
  • Setting the groundwork for the upcoming re-authorization of FDA user fees programs.

Dr. Hahn, a board-certified radiation oncologist, currently serves as the Chief Medical Executive at MD Anderson Cancer Center. Upon his confirmation, Friends looks forward to working with Dr. Hahn to continue and expand the vital work that both Former Commissioner Gottlieb and Dr. Sharpless set forth.

 

We wish Dr. Hahn the best during this confirmation process.

 
About Friends of Cancer Research
Friends of Cancer Research (Friends) drives collaboration among partners from every healthcare sector to power advances in science, policy and regulation that speed lifesaving treatments to patients. For more information, please visit www.focr.org.