Dr. Oz intervenes as drug executive collapses during Oval Office event
During a press conference in the Oval Office, a drug executive fainted as President Donald Trump announced a deal to lower drug prices. The event was temporarily halted.
Details of the incident
The collapse occurred while Trump was discussing a collaboration with Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk to expand coverage and reduce prices for obesity treatments Zepbound and Wegovy.
"A press conference was interrupted on Thursday when a drug executive fainted in the Oval Office while President Donald Trump was announcing a deal with drugmakers to lower the cost of obesity drugs."
The person involved was identified as Gordon Findlay, the global brand director for Novo Nordisk. Eli Lilly's CEO, David Ricks, noticed his colleague and asked, "Are you okay? Gordon, are you okay?"
Mehmet Oz, the Administrator for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, responded swiftly when Findlay collapsed to his knees. The press was asked to leave, and the Secretary of Health and Human Services was present during the incident.
Approximately 30 minutes later, after the event resumed, President Trump provided an update on Findlay's condition.
Author's summary
This incident highlights the unexpected moments during high-profile political events, where health emergencies can temporarily disrupt discussions on critical healthcare deals.