Dr. Casey Means is an American physician, entrepreneur, and wellness advocate known for her unconventional approach to healthcare and her recent nomination as U.S. Surgeon General by President Donald Trump.
Background and Education
Born on September 24, 1987, in the United States, Means earned both her undergraduate and medical degrees from Stanford University, graduating with honors. She began a residency in otolaryngology (head and neck surgery) at Oregon Health & Science University but left the program in 2018, six months before completion, citing disillusionment with the traditional healthcare system's focus on symptom management over root-cause prevention. Her medical license became inactive in January 2024.
Career and Ventures
After leaving her residency, Means shifted her focus to functional medicine, emphasizing holistic approaches to health. In 2019, she co-founded Levels Health, a health-tech startup that offers continuous glucose monitoring and metabolic health tracking tools. The company has received backing from prominent investors, including Andreessen Horowitz.
Means co-authored the New York Times bestselling book Good Energy with her brother, Calley Means, in 2024. The book advocates for addressing chronic diseases through lifestyle changes aimed at improving metabolic health.
Nomination as Surgeon General
On May 7, 2025, President Trump nominated Means for the position of U.S. Surgeon General, following the withdrawal of Dr. Janette Nesheiwat's nomination. The nomination aligns with the administration's "Make America Healthy Again" initiative, led by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., emphasizing preventive care and holistic health approaches.
However, the nomination has been met with controversy. Critics point to her lack of a completed medical residency, inactive medical license, and promotion of alternative health practices. Some within the wellness and anti-vaccine communities have expressed concerns about her qualifications and views.
Personal Philosophy and Public Presence
Means is vocal about her belief that many chronic diseases stem from metabolic dysfunction caused by modern lifestyles, including poor diet, environmental toxins, and lack of physical activity. She advocates for natural and organic diets, questions the overuse of pharmaceuticals, and emphasizes the importance of spiritual well-being.
She maintains an active online presence through her personal website and social media platforms, where she shares insights on health, wellness, and lifestyle.
For more information on Dr. Casey Means and her work, you can visit her official website: caseymeans.com.