Attending Physician of the United States Congress

Brian Monahan

Attending Physician of the United States Congress is a position held by a physician who provides medical care and services to members of the United States Congress and Supreme Court of the United States. This role includes a wide range of responsibilities, from emergency medical services to comprehensive health care, including preventive care, routine examinations, and health education. The Attending Physician also advises on public health and sanitary measures that affect the Capitol Hill complex.

History

The position of the Attending Physician of the United States Congress was established in the early 20th century. The role was created to ensure that members of Congress and the Supreme Court had immediate access to medical care, reflecting the importance of maintaining the health and well-being of these national leaders. Over the years, the scope of services provided by the Attending Physician has expanded to meet the growing health care needs of the Capitol Hill community.

Duties and Responsibilities

The primary duty of the Attending Physician is to provide medical care to members of both houses of Congress and the Supreme Court. This includes:

• Emergency medical services and first response in the event of medical crises on Capitol Hill.
• Routine health care services, such as physical examinations, immunizations, and health screenings.
• Consultation and referral to medical specialists when necessary.
• Health education and wellness promotion among the Capitol Hill population.
• Oversight of public health measures within the Capitol complex, including responses to infectious disease outbreaks.

In addition to direct patient care, the Attending Physician plays a significant role in emergency preparedness and biosecurity on Capitol Hill. This includes developing and implementing plans to protect against biological threats and ensuring the continuity of governmental operations during health crises.

Appointment

The Attending Physician is appointed by the President of the United States, with input from Congressional leadership. Candidates for the position are typically distinguished military officers from the United States Navy or United States Army, reflecting the tradition of military service in the role. The Attending Physician serves at the pleasure of the President and Congress, with no fixed term limit.

Office and Staff

The Office of the Attending Physician is located within the Capitol complex and is staffed by a team of medical professionals, including nurses, physician assistants, and administrative personnel. The office operates clinics within the Capitol, providing convenient access to medical services for lawmakers and Supreme Court Justices. The staff supports the Attending Physician in all aspects of patient care and public health duties.

Significance

The role of the Attending Physician of the United States Congress underscores the importance of health and wellness in the functioning of the nation's highest legislative and judicial bodies. By providing immediate and comprehensive medical services, the Attending Physician ensures that members of Congress and the Supreme Court can perform their duties with minimal interruption due to health issues. Furthermore, the position highlights the intersection of medicine and public service, demonstrating the critical role of health care professionals in supporting the governance and security of the country.