David Shulkin

David Shulkin official photo

David Jonathon Shulkin (born June 22, 1959) is an American physician and former government official who served as the 9th United States Secretary of Veterans Affairs under President Donald Trump. He was nominated by President Trump and confirmed by the United States Senate on February 13, 2017, with a unanimous vote of 100-0. Shulkin was the first Veterans Affairs Secretary to serve who had not previously been a veteran himself.

Early Life and Education

David Shulkin was born in Fort Sheridan, Illinois. He earned his Bachelor's degree from Hampshire College and his medical degree from the Medical College of Pennsylvania (now part of Drexel University College of Medicine). He completed his internship at Yale University School of Medicine and his residency and fellowship in General Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh Presbyterian Medical Center.

Career

Before his appointment as Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Shulkin had a long career in medical management and administration. He served as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City and as the President of Morristown Medical Center in New Jersey. Shulkin also held academic positions, including that of Chairman of Medicine and Vice Dean at Drexel University College of Medicine.

In 2015, Shulkin was appointed by President Barack Obama as the Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health in the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, where he served until 2017. In this role, he was responsible for overseeing the largest integrated health care system in the United States, managing a budget of approximately $70 billion and ensuring the delivery of care to over 9 million enrolled veterans.

Tenure as Secretary of Veterans Affairs

As Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Shulkin focused on improving the VA health care system, reducing wait times for appointments, and expanding access to care for veterans. He was known for his efforts to increase transparency within the VA and for advocating the use of private healthcare providers when necessary to ensure veterans received timely care. However, his tenure was also marked by controversy, including reports of internal disputes within the VA and allegations of misuse of taxpayer funds during a European trip. Shulkin was dismissed from his position by President Trump in March 2018.

Post-Government Career

After leaving the VA, Shulkin has remained active in healthcare policy and veterans' affairs. He has written op-eds for major publications and participated in healthcare conferences, sharing his insights on healthcare administration and the importance of caring for veterans. Shulkin has also authored a book detailing his experiences and the challenges of reforming the VA.

Legacy

David Shulkin's tenure as Secretary of Veterans Affairs is remembered for both his efforts to reform the VA and the controversies that surrounded his dismissal. His unanimous confirmation and non-veteran status were notable aspects of his appointment. Despite the challenges, Shulkin's work highlighted the ongoing issues within the VA system and the need for continued reforms to better serve the nation's veterans.