Surgeon General

• The Surgeon General is the chief medical officer of the U.S. and the operational head of the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps.
• Key responsibilities include educating the public on health issues, advocating for evidence-based policies, and issuing influential health reports.
• The role has evolved significantly since its inception in 1798, adapting to address changing public health challenges.
• The current Surgeon General actively leads national efforts to promote health equity and address pressing health crises.

What is the Surgeon General?

The Surgeon General is the chief medical officer of the U.S. federal government and the operational head of the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps. Appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, this individual serves as the nation’s leading spokesperson on matters of public health. Their primary function is to provide the American public with the best scientific information available on how to improve their health and reduce the risk of illness and injury. This involves translating complex medical research into understandable public health messages, guiding national health policy discussions, and advising the President and the Secretary of Health and Human Services on critical health issues. The office plays a pivotal role in shaping public understanding and response to health crises and long-term health challenges.

Duties and Responsibilities of the Surgeon General

The duties and responsibilities of Surgeon General are extensive and multifaceted, encompassing leadership, advocacy, and public education. The Surgeon General is tasked with protecting and advancing the health and safety of the nation. This involves a broad range of activities aimed at improving public health outcomes and fostering a culture of wellness across the country.

Key responsibilities include:

• Public Health Education: Issuing Surgeon General’s Reports on critical health topics, such as smoking, mental health, and substance abuse, to inform the public and policymakers.
• Health Advocacy: Championing evidence-based public health policies and programs, and advocating for resources to address health disparities and emerging health threats.
• Leadership of the Commissioned Corps: Overseeing the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, a uniformed service of health professionals dedicated to public health.
• Crisis Response: Providing leadership and guidance during national health emergencies, working to coordinate federal responses and disseminate vital information.
• Advisory Role: Serving as a principal advisor to the President and the Secretary of Health and Human Services on public health and scientific matters.

Through these duties, the Surgeon General strives to empower individuals and communities to make informed health decisions, contributing significantly to the nation’s overall health and resilience.

History and the Current US Surgeon General

The history of the United States Surgeon General dates back to 1798 with the establishment of the Marine Hospital Service, which provided medical care for merchant seamen. The head of this service was initially known as the Supervising Surgeon, a title that evolved over time. In 1871, the position was formally designated as the Supervising Surgeon General, and later simply the Surgeon General. This evolution reflected a broadening mandate from caring for a specific population to addressing wider public health concerns. Landmark moments include the 1964 Surgeon General’s Report on Smoking and Health, which fundamentally changed public perception and policy regarding tobacco use, and ongoing efforts to combat infectious diseases and promote preventive care.

The role of who is the current US Surgeon General is held by Vice Admiral Dr. Vivek H. Murthy. Dr. Murthy was sworn in as the 21st Surgeon General of the United States on March 23, 2021, having previously served in the role from 2014 to 2017. His tenure has focused on addressing critical public health challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the opioid crisis, and the national mental health crisis. He has emphasized the importance of community well-being, combating health misinformation, and promoting social connection as a public health priority. Dr. Murthy continues to be a prominent voice in guiding the nation through complex health landscapes, advocating for policies and practices that support the health of all Americans. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) frequently collaborates with the Surgeon General’s office on public health campaigns, underscoring the role’s impact on national health initiatives.