Biden Taps Surgeon General And TV Doctor As Head Of Health Agency
New Role For Murthy, Who Previously Held The Role Under Obama
President Biden has nominated a former U.S. Surgeon General and television doctor to lead the federal agency responsible for improving the health of Americans of all ages. The nomination of Vivek Murthy, who served as the nation's top doctor under President Barack Obama, must be confirmed by the United States Senate.
Policy Changes Are Expected
If confirmed, Murthy would oversee a sweeping portfolio at the Department of Health and Human Services, including efforts to provide affordable health care, address the mental health crisis, and reduce racial disparities in health outcomes.
Murthy, 45, is a physician and public health expert who has written extensively about the importance of preventive care and the social determinants of health. He is a vocal advocate for policies that would expand health insurance coverage, promote healthy eating and exercise, and reduce gun violence.
During his previous tenure as U.S. Surgeon General, from 2014 to 2017, Murthy made headlines for his outspoken advocacy on a range of public health issues, including the dangers of tobacco use, the need for comprehensive sex education, and the importance of mental health care.
Murthy's nomination is likely to be met with some opposition from Republicans, who have often criticized his views on gun control and abortion. However, he is expected to have strong support from Democrats and public health advocates.
Widely Published Physician And Researcher
Murthy is a graduate of Harvard College and Yale School of Medicine. He has held faculty positions at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital, and he is the co-founder and former president of Doctors for America, a political action committee that supports Democratic candidates who prioritize health care.
In addition to his work in government and academia, Murthy has also been a visible figure in the media. He is a regular contributor to NBC News and MSNBC, and he has hosted several documentaries on health-related topics. He is also the author of several books on health and wellness.
