Indian-American physician Dr Vivek Murthy has been sworn in as the 21st Surgeon General of the US, a role in which his top priority would be to end the coronavirus pandemic that has severely hit the country and be a voice for science.
Soon after being sworn in as the top doctor of the country by the Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra, Dr Murthy said, “honoured to be sworn in as your Surgeon General. I owe this day to my family who has guided & supported me every step of the way.”
“I stand ready to work with you to end this pandemic & build a world where good health is within everyone’s grasp”, he added.
He was confirmed by the senate by 57-43 votes on 24th March, 2021.
In 2013, Obama nominated Dr Murthy to be the Surgeon General. He was the youngest ever to hold the office at the age of 37. However, he had to abruptly leave the position during the Trump administration.
As US Surgeon General, Murthy will advise President Biden on the coronavirus pandemic and will be the federal government’s leading voice on public health. Ready to take on this position as the Nation’s Doctor to help end this pandemic, be a voice for science, & support our nation on its path to rebuilding and healing, said Dr Murthy, who now is the highest ranking Indian-American in the Biden administration.