Azar names new senior advisor on drug pricing

Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar today named as his senior advisor for drug pricing reform John O’Brien, a pharmacist who previously served as deputy assistant secretary for health policy and an advisor on health reform and drug pricing. He replaces Daniel Best, who died last month. “John O’Brien has already been an integral leader in HHS’s efforts to bring down the high price of prescription drugs,” Azar said. “As a senior advisor, he will carry forward the legacy of our departed colleague Dan Best and build on the substantial progress that has already been made.” Before joining HHS, O’Brien was vice president of public policy for CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield.