Dr. Janette Nesheiwat: A New Era for Public Health Under Trump’s Administration

President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, a seasoned physician and public health advocate, to serve as the next Surgeon General of the United States. Alongside her, Dr. Marty Makary, a prominent surgeon from Johns Hopkins University, has been chosen to head the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These appointments, pending Senate confirmation, are poised to bring significant changes to the nation’s public health landscape. In this article, we delve into the backgrounds of Dr. Nesheiwat and Dr. Makary, exploring their potential impact on public health policy and their alignment with Trump’s healthcare agenda.

Dr. Janette Nesheiwat: From Clinical Medicine to Public Health Advocacy

Born on August 25, 1976, in Carmel, New York, Dr. Janette Nesheiwat is the daughter of Christian Jordanian immigrants. Raised by her mother, Hayat Nesheiwat, a registered nurse, Janette and her four siblings grew up in Umatilla, Florida. Her upbringing, marked by resilience and a strong work ethic, laid the foundation for her commitment to service and healthcare.

Dr. Nesheiwat’s academic journey began at the University of South Florida, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 2000. She then pursued medical studies at the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine, earning her degree in 2005. After completing her family medicine residency at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in 2009, she embarked on a career that blended hands-on patient care with leadership roles in emergency medicine.

Over the years, Dr. Nesheiwat has become known for her ability to address a wide range of medical conditions, from heart attacks to infectious diseases such as COVID-19 and monkeypox. As one of five medical directors at CityMD, a network of urgent care centers in New York and New Jersey, she has led teams in delivering high-quality, accessible healthcare to thousands of patients annually.

Disaster Relief and Humanitarian Efforts

Dr. Nesheiwat’s dedication extends beyond clinical settings. She has participated in disaster relief efforts worldwide, providing medical care in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, the Joplin tornadoes, and international crises in Haiti, Morocco, and Poland. These experiences have not only demonstrated her adaptability but also her commitment to serving communities in dire need. Her work with organizations like Samaritan’s Purse has further cemented her reputation as a compassionate and skilled responder during emergencies.

Public Health Communication and Media Engagement

In addition to her clinical and humanitarian contributions, Dr. Nesheiwat has become a trusted voice in public health communication. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she gained prominence as a medical contributor on Fox News, where her clear, evidence-based analysis provided reassurance and guidance to a nation grappling with uncertainty. Her ability to translate complex medical information into relatable advice has positioned her as a bridge between the medical community and the public, a skill that will be essential if she assumes the role of Surgeon General.

Nomination and Future Responsibilities as Surgeon General

President-elect Trump praised Dr. Nesheiwat as “a fierce advocate and strong communicator for public health,” highlighting her extensive clinical experience and ability to connect with diverse audiences. If confirmed, Dr. Nesheiwat will be tasked with addressing critical issues such as mental health, chronic disease prevention, and healthcare accessibility, particularly for underserved populations. Her approach to healthcare emphasizes prevention and education, advocating for routine screenings, vaccinations, and healthy lifestyle choices as foundational elements of long-term well-being.

Dr. Marty Makary: A Contrarian at the Helm of the FDA

Dr. Marty Makary, a surgical oncologist at Johns Hopkins University, has been nominated by President-elect Trump to lead the FDA. Known for his contrarian views and criticism of the medical establishment, Dr. Makary has been a vocal advocate for patient safety and transparency in medicine. His nomination aligns with Trump’s goal of restoring public trust in the FDA and ensuring the agency prioritizes high-quality, lower-cost care.

Dr. Makary rose to prominence more than a decade ago, speaking out about patient safety and working with hospitals to improve practices. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he gained attention for his views on herd immunity, vaccines, and masks, which often sparked controversy among his peers. As FDA commissioner, Dr. Makary will oversee a vast array of responsibilities, from regulating prescription and over-the-counter drugs to ensuring the safety of the nation’s food supply.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

Both Dr. Nesheiwat and Dr. Makary will face significant challenges in their new roles. Dr. Nesheiwat will need to address pressing public health issues such as mental health, vaccine hesitancy, and disparities in healthcare access. Her ability to inspire trust and communicate effectively with the public will be crucial in shaping public opinion and guiding responses to health crises.

Dr. Makary, on the other hand, will need to navigate the complexities of the FDA, ensuring that the agency maintains its rigorous standards while cutting bureaucratic red tape. His experience in patient safety and transparency will be invaluable in addressing the concerns raised by Trump and his administration regarding the FDA’s performance during the pandemic.

Conclusion

The nominations of Dr. Janette Nesheiwat and Dr. Marty Makary signal a new direction for public health under Trump’s administration. Both bring unique perspectives and extensive experience to their respective roles. Dr. Nesheiwat’s clinical expertise, humanitarian efforts, and communication skills position her to make a significant impact as Surgeon General, while Dr. Makary’s focus on patient safety and transparency will be essential in leading the FDA.

As they prepare to take on these prominent roles, the public will be watching closely to see how they address the nation’s most pressing health challenges. Their leadership will be critical in shaping the future of public health policy and ensuring that Americans receive the high-quality, accessible healthcare they deserve.