Alex Azar, head of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, announced the federal approval Friday in Indianapolis.

Azar has said his priorities include curbing the cost of prescription drugs, making health insurance more affordable and available, and confronting the opioid epidemic.

If confirmed, former Eli Lilly President Alex Azar will take over the nation's top health position. He served as the HHS deputy secretary under President George W. Bush.