America’s Doctor Accepts AAPA President’s Award
After accepting the 2010 President’s Award from AAPA President Stephen Hanson, U.S. Surgeon General Regina Benjamin, MD spoke to a crowd of 250 PAs and PA students from across the country at AAPA’s Capitol Connection on February 22. In her speech, Benjamin praised the efforts of PAs she has worked with over the years, including those in the U.S. Public Health Service, where she serves as vice admiral overseeing the operational command of 6,500 uniformed health officers.
Benjamin also acknowledged the efforts of PA Ashley Jones, who is taking on a larger role at Benjamin’s rural health clinic in Bayou La Batre, Ala. while Benjamin takes on her duties as the 18th Surgeon General of the United States.
In her speech, Benjamin outlined her priorities as Surgeon General, including promoting wellness, focusing on disease prevention and encouraging fitness to combat the obesity epidemic. She also asked PAs to take on mentoring roles, and encouraged them to do what they can to increase minority participation in the medical field. Benjamin commended the group for being advocates for the PA profession and health care reform by meeting with their legislators during the February 23 Capitol Hill visits.
PA Pro NOW bloggers caught up with Benjamin after her speech. Click below to watch Benjamin’s and AAPA President Stephen Hanson’s comments on PAs and advocacy.
