WASHINGTON, DC – Enhancing Americans’ health involves cutting healthcare expenses while helping people remain active and productive longer, according to CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz, who spoke to Fox News Digital.

In an exclusive talk at the Great American State Fair in Washington, D.C., Dr. Oz discussed significant insights he gained about advancing Americans’ health during his role in the Trump administration. “You interact with many smart individuals and quickly learn: The costliest aspect of healthcare is delivering low-quality care,” he stated.

He explained, “Paying someone unqualified leads to poor job performance requiring another person to rectify. This results in additional expenses and resolving indirect complications.”

Dr. Mehmet Oz met with Fox News Digital at the event on July 6, 2026. When aiming to keep Americans healthy, his focus at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is “quality, quality, quality.” This encompasses preventing illnesses and promoting healthy behaviors, such as cooking nutritious meals at home.

“The second crucial aspect is ensuring every healthcare system interaction is value-based,” Dr. Oz stated. “We shouldn’t pay doctors merely for procedures, but for patient care.”

He mentioned that new healthcare technologies simplify the delivery of high-quality care by “meeting people where they are.” According to Dr. Oz, less than half of Medicare beneficiaries participate in the program’s complimentary annual wellness exams.

“One reason I support AI is for its potential to be utilized safely and effectively,” Dr. Oz noted. “As advancements continue in innovative medications and screening methods, and as people understand their roles in staying healthy, our nation will thrive.”

Each Medicare patient receives a free annual wellness exam, yet fewer than half make use of it. Skipping this exam often leads individuals to believe they’re in better health than they actually are, resulting in expensive treatments later.

“They’re deceiving themselves,” Dr. Oz remarked. “Ignorance might seem pleasant, but not in healthcare.”

By implementing these health improvement strategies, Dr. Oz envisions significant progress in national wealth and vitality. “We can enable the average American to feel vibrant and healthy enough to work an additional year,” he commented. “The national value from this could reach $1 trillion.”

Dr. Oz elaborated, “Imagine $1 trillion added to GDP, enhancing government revenue and social programs. Achieving an extra year of health among our citizens would drive the country’s full potential.”

He mentioned that while most Americans wish to work longer, they often feel physically less capable as they age. “They doubt their competitiveness and strength,” Dr. Oz observed. “By improving American health, we’ll reduce spending and also increase profit.”