Dr. Oz jumps in as drug executive collapses during Oval Office press conference
A press event in the Oval Office was briefly halted on Thursday after a drug company executive fainted while President Donald Trump was announcing a deal with major pharmaceutical firms to lower the cost of obesity medications.
Incident during announcement
The event, focused on agreements with Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk to expand access and reduce the prices of obesity treatments such as Zepbound and Wegovy, was interrupted when Gordon Findlay, Novo Nordisk's global brand director, appeared to collapse.
Immediate response
David Ricks, CEO of Eli Lilly, was delivering remarks when he turned toward the executive and asked:
"Are you okay? Gordon, are you okay?"
Witnesses reported that Dr. Mehmet Oz, Administrator for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, quickly assisted Findlay as he fell to his knees. Members of the press were then escorted from the room.
Aftermath and update
Health and Human Services Secretary was also present when the incident occurred. About thirty minutes later, President Trump resumed the conference and provided an update on Findlay’s condition, assuring attendees that he was recovering.
Summary
During a briefing on a new initiative to lower drug prices, President Trump paused proceedings after Novo Nordisk executive Gordon Findlay fainted; Dr. Mehmet Oz swiftly rendered aid, and the event later continued with positive health updates.
Author’s summary: The Oval Office briefing on drug price cuts turned dramatic when Novo Nordisk's executive collapsed, prompting quick action by Dr. Oz and reassurance from President Trump afterward.