WASHINGTON: The Senate Health Committee is set to hold a hearing on Dr Casey Means, a wellness influencer author and entrepreneur seeking approval to serve as the nation’s surgeon general.

The hearing, scheduled for Wednesday, will focus on evaluating Means’s qualifications, professional background and alignment with the health priorities of Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. particularly his Make America Healthy Again movement.

The session was originally planned for last October but was postponed after Means went into labour on the day of her scheduled appearance. Now the 38 year old nominee is expected to outline her vision for addressing chronic disease by targeting its root causes, emphasizing dietary improvements and lifestyle based interventions.

However, Means is likely to face pointed questions from opposition lawmakers regarding her medical credentials, experience, and potential conflicts of interest. Critics have raised concerns about her departure from traditional clinical medicine and her involvement in promoting various health-related products. Lawmakers may also examine whether financial interests were fully disclosed.

Means a Stanford educated physician, has built a prominent public profile advocating preventive health strategies. Supporters view her approach as innovative while skeptics question whether her background adequately prepares her for a key public health leadership role.

The hearing is expected to play a decisive role in determining her confirmation prospects.