Surgeon General of the United States

John M. Woodworth

Surgeon General John B. Hamilton

Walter Wyman, ca. 1898 (B026910)

Rupert Blue 3

Hugh S. Cumming

Thomas Parran, Jr., photo portrait as surgeon general

Surgeon General of the United States is a position that serves as the leading spokesperson on matters of public health in the federal government of the United States. The Surgeon General heads the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps (PHSCC), a branch of the United States Public Health Service (USPHS), and thus holds a rank equivalent to a vice admiral. The role of the Surgeon General is to advise the President of the United States, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, and the public on health issues, including mental health, disease prevention, and health promotion.

History

The office of the Surgeon General was established in 1871. The initial role was to lead the Marine Hospital Service (MHS), the precursor to the USPHS, focusing on providing medical care to sick and injured seamen. Over the years, the responsibilities of the Surgeon General have expanded significantly, reflecting the growing importance of public health issues in the United States.

Duties and Responsibilities

The Surgeon General's duties include overseeing the operations of the PHSCC, issuing reports on health issues affecting the American populace, and mobilizing action on health policy. One of the most notable responsibilities is the publication of the Surgeon General's reports, which have historically had significant impacts on public health policy and awareness. Topics have ranged from smoking and health to mental health and obesity, often leading to significant public and governmental action.

Appointment

The Surgeon General is nominated by the President and must be confirmed by the United States Senate. The term of office is traditionally four years, and the individual can be reappointed for additional terms. Candidates are usually drawn from the PHSCC, and the nominee is often a highly experienced public health professional.

Notable Surgeons General

Several Surgeons General have become particularly well-known for their contributions to public health and their efforts to raise awareness on critical health issues. For example, Dr. C. Everett Koop (1982-1989) was instrumental in raising awareness about the dangers of smoking and the AIDS epidemic. Dr. Joycelyn Elders (1993-1994) was known for her outspoken views on drug legalization and sex education.

Controversies

The position of Surgeon General has sometimes been a source of controversy, often due to the political implications of public health issues. Surgeons General have occasionally clashed with political leaders or faced criticism for their stances on contentious issues such as drug policy, reproductive rights, and sex education.

Current and Future Role

The role of the Surgeon General continues to evolve in response to new public health challenges, including emerging infectious diseases, the opioid crisis, and health disparities among different populations in the United States. The Surgeon General also plays a critical role in emergency preparedness and response, working with other federal agencies to protect the health of the American public during disasters and outbreaks.

See Also

• Public health
• United States Department of Health and Human Services
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• National Institutes of Health