Grifters

Let’s explore a case study in weak personalities. Specifically, let’s examine the poster child for fickle ideals, one swayed by fame and wealth like autumn leaves subjected to gusts of wind.

Mehmet Oz.

My passion in cardiology is valve disease, and the character formerly known as Dr. Oz was instrumental in bringing technology to treat mitral regurgitation to the public. Based on surgical concept (Alfieri Stitch), he founded Evalve and launched the MitraClip to resounding success. What previously required an open chest procedure is now routinely performed without any incisions.

It’s human nature to belittle the abilities of those we consider societal leeches, but this undermines the central problem. Mehmet Oz was brilliant. He is brilliant. The issue isn’t cognitive. Nor is it an inherent problem with pursuing recognition and wealth.

It’s a weakness of character.

The moment the makeup touched his face, he chose to tout snake oil as miraculous, akin to speaking in tongues, the “divine” channeled through him.  Columbia University Irving Medical Center cut ties with him in 2022 after former colleagues wrote a letter detailing the damage he inflicted on countless viewers.

One elderly viewer suffered third degree burns after following a remedy for insomnia (uncooked rice in socks warmed in the microwave and worn to sleep). A cush CMS gig later, and his claim to fame is cutting coverage for immigrants, requiring more paperwork for routine treatments, and “tightening” coverage for arthritis treatment to cut out “fraud.” He’s a real winner, folks.

What’s my CTA? Be vigilant. Read. Anyone who tells you knowledge flows through them is calling you stupid. Believing them empowers them to treat you like you’re stupid too. Find experts you trust, but then verify. This is our “no bullshit ever” approach, the anti-Dr Oz approach.