As the Nation’s Doctor, the Surgeon General provides Americans with the best scientific information available on how to improve their health and reduce their risk of illness and injury.
The Surgeon General brings the best available scientific information to the public by issuing advisories, calls to action, and reports on critical issues and communicating directly with the public via a number of communication channels.
As Vice Admiral of the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, the Surgeon General oversees the operations of the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps (USPHS), an elite group of multidisciplinary officers working throughout the federal government whose mission is to protect, promote, and advance the health of our nation.
Who We Are
The Surgeon General is nominated by the President of the United States and confirmed by the U.S. Senate, and serves a four-year term of office. The Office of the Surgeon General is part of the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Health (Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health) and Director of National Health Communications (Office of the Surgeon General)
Stephanie E. Haridopolos, MD, DABFM
What We Do
Established in 1871, the U.S. Surgeon General commands the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps and serves as a leading voice for public health.
The mission of the U.S. Surgeon General is to protect, promote, and advance the health and safety of our nation. We achieve this by:
- Communicating the best available scientific information for the benefit of all.
- Encouraging nation-wide action on public health issues in collaboration with governments, businesses, and communities.
- Developing strategies for advancing public health science and leadership
Read more about the history of the office of the Surgeon General
Careers and Opportunities
The Office of the Surgeon General offers internships, volunteer opportunities, fellowships, and careers in public health and health professions.
Explore opportunities to: