Dr. Amol Navathe has been selected to serve as the new Chair of the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC), a prominent independent body responsible for advising the United States Congress on Medicare-related policies. His appointment will extend through April 2029 and places an experienced healthcare expert at the forefront of discussions surrounding the future of one of the nation’s most significant public health programs.
A physician specializing in internal medicine, Dr. Navathe is also a professor of medical ethics, health policy and healthcare management at the University of Pennsylvania. Throughout his career, he has built a reputation for conducting influential research focused on healthcare delivery systems, provider incentives and the effectiveness of Medicare payment models. His work has contributed to broader conversations about improving efficiency and quality within the healthcare system.
Dr. Navathe is no stranger to MedPAC’s mission and responsibilities. He previously served as a commission member from 2019 to 2022 before assuming the role of Vice Chair from 2022 to 2025. His return to a leadership position is expected to provide continuity and institutional knowledge as the commission navigates evolving healthcare challenges and policy considerations.
The announcement was made by Orice W. Brown, Acting Comptroller General of the United States and head of the Government Accountability Office (GAO). Brown emphasized MedPAC’s longstanding role as a trusted, independent source of analysis and recommendations for lawmakers. She noted that for nearly three decades, the commission has offered nonpartisan guidance on some of the most pressing issues affecting the Medicare program.
Expressing confidence in the commission’s future direction, Brown highlighted the importance of evidence-based policymaking and indicated that MedPAC’s leadership and staff would continue supporting congressional decision-making with rigorous research and informed recommendations.
Alongside Dr. Navathe’s appointment, the GAO announced several additional leadership changes. Gregory Poulsen of Intermountain Health was named Vice Chair, with his term continuing through 2028. The commission also welcomed two new members: Benedic Ippolito of the American Enterprise Institute and Danielle Pierotti of Mount Marty University. Existing members Tamara Konetzka and Brian Miller were reappointed, with all four commissioners scheduled to serve through April 2029.
Established by Congress in 1997, MedPAC functions as an independent advisory commission tasked with evaluating a broad spectrum of Medicare-related issues. Its responsibilities include assessing healthcare access, monitoring quality standards and examining cost-effectiveness across the program. The commission’s oversight spans both traditional fee-for-service Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans, ensuring that policymakers receive comprehensive analysis to guide future reforms and strengthen healthcare delivery for millions of beneficiaries.
