A man experienced a medical emergency in the Oval Office on November 6 during a press conference focused on lowering costs for weight loss drugs. As President Donald Trump and various health advisers discussed the initiative, a representative from Eli Lilly suddenly collapsed near the President’s desk, prompting Eli Lilly CEO Dave Ricks to momentarily halt his speech.
Dr. Mehmet Oz, who serves as the head of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, quickly responded, rushing over to assist as the man fell. With the help of other attendees, they laid the man flat while a White House staff member instructed the press to exit the room. Shortly after the incident, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt reassured reporters that the individual was stable. “During the Most Favored Nations Oval Office Announcement, a representative with one of the companies fainted,” she stated. “The White House Medical Unit quickly jumped into action, and the gentleman is okay. The Press Conference will resume shortly.”
This incident is not the first medical emergency to unfold in the Oval Office involving Dr. Oz. Earlier this year, during his own swearing-in ceremony on April 18, his granddaughter Philomena fainted while he was being sworn in by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The young girl collapsed during a moment when attention was drawn to discussions about national security. Fortunately, both incidents were handled promptly, with family members later confirming that Philomena recovered well.
The quick response from Dr. Oz and the medical unit highlights the preparedness and vigilance often present in high-pressure environments like the White House. Such situations serve as reminders of the importance of having trained professionals ready to take swift action in emergencies, ensuring the safety and health of everyone present.