Vivek Murthy

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Vivek Murthy sworn in as surgeon general 1

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Dr. Vivek Murthy and Dr. Francis Collins (30885897892)

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Vivek Hallegere Murthy is an American physician and public health advocate who has served as the 19th and 21st Surgeon General of the United States. Born on July 10, 1977, in Huddersfield, England, to immigrants from Karnataka, India, Murthy was raised in Miami, Florida. He has been a prominent figure in addressing public health issues, including obesity, tobacco use, and mental health, emphasizing the importance of science and innovation in tackling health challenges.

Early Life and Education

Murthy's journey in medicine began with his education. He earned his Bachelor's degree from Harvard University in Biochemical Sciences. He then pursued further studies at Yale University, where he received a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the Yale School of Management and a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the Yale School of Medicine. During his time at Yale, Murthy was involved in various health and community service initiatives, which laid the foundation for his future in public health advocacy.

Career

Murthy's career has been marked by his commitment to improving public health and his belief in the power of medicine to change lives. Before his tenure as Surgeon General, he co-founded VISIONS Worldwide, a non-profit organization focused on HIV/AIDS education in India and the United States. He also co-founded TrialNetworks, a software company aimed at improving clinical trials and research efficiency.

Surgeon General

Murthy was first nominated by President Barack Obama as Surgeon General in 2013, a position he held from 2014 to 2017. His nomination was initially met with resistance due to his outspoken views on gun control as a public health issue. However, he was eventually confirmed, becoming the first person of Indian descent to hold the office.

As Surgeon General, Murthy focused on the opioid crisis, e-cigarettes among youth, and the promotion of physical activity. He also released a landmark report on addiction, emphasizing it as a chronic illness and not a moral failing, and called for a comprehensive approach to address the opioid epidemic.

After his tenure under Obama, Murthy continued his work in public health and policy. He was a key advisor on health issues during the COVID-19 pandemic for President Joe Biden's transition team.

In 2021, Murthy was nominated by President Biden for a second term as Surgeon General. His reappointment brought him back to the forefront of the nation's health response, particularly in addressing the ongoing challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccine hesitancy, and mental health issues.

Personal Life

Murthy is married to Alice Chen, a physician and public health advocate. Together, they have two children and continue to be active in community health initiatives.

Legacy and Impact

Murthy's work as Surgeon General has been characterized by his efforts to bridge the gap between public health policies and community needs. His advocacy for a science-based approach to health crises, along with his focus on mental health and wellness, has made significant contributions to the national conversation on health.