Archean

American physician and public health administrator

Antonia Novello

Antonia Novello

Antonia Coello Novello (born August 23, 1944) is a Puerto Rican physician and public health administrator. She was the first woman and the first Hispanic to serve as Surgeon General of the United States, holding the position from 1990 to 1993. Her tenure was marked by a focus on the health of women, children, and minorities, as well as efforts to combat AIDS and tobacco use.

Early Life and Education

Antonia Novello was born in Fajardo, Puerto Rico. She faced significant health challenges from a young age, suffering from a congenital condition that required multiple surgeries. Despite these challenges, she excelled academically and pursued a career in medicine. Novello earned her M.D. degree from the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine in 1970. She later completed a Master of Public Health degree from the Johns Hopkins School of Hygiene and Public Health.

Career

Medical Practice

Novello began her medical career as a pediatrician, focusing on nephrology. Her work in this field led her to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), where she conducted research and worked on health policy.

Public Health Service

In 1978, Novello joined the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, where she held various positions, including Deputy Director of the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. Her work at the NIH and her advocacy for children's health brought her to the attention of policymakers.

Surgeon General of the United States

Appointed by President George H. W. Bush, Novello became the 14th Surgeon General of the United States in 1990. During her tenure, she focused on issues such as underage drinking, smoking, and the health of women and minorities. She was particularly noted for her efforts to raise awareness about AIDS and to reduce tobacco use among young people.

Awards and Honors

Novello has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to public health and medicine. Her decorations include:

• Public Health Service Distinguished Service Medal
• Public Health Service Commendation Medal
• Public Health Service Outstanding Service Medal
• Surgeon General's Exemplary Service Medal
• Public Health Service Meritorious Service Medal
• Humanitarian Service Medal

Later Career

After serving as Surgeon General, Novello continued to work in public health and academia. She served as Commissioner of Health for the State of New York from 1999 to 2006, where she focused on improving the state's public health infrastructure and addressing health disparities.

Legacy

Antonia Novello's legacy is marked by her groundbreaking role as the first female and Hispanic Surgeon General, as well as her advocacy for public health issues affecting vulnerable populations. Her work has inspired many in the fields of medicine and public health.

Related Pages

• Surgeon General of the United States
• Public Health Service Commissioned Corps
• National Institutes of Health

Gallery

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  Public Health Service Regular Corps Ribbon
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  Public Health Service Unit Commendation
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  Public Health Service Outstanding Unit Citation
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  USPHS National Emergency Preparedness Award
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  Public Health Service Foreign Duty Service Award
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  Meritorious Service Medal
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  Public Health Service Distinguished Service Medal
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  Public Health Service Commissioned Officers Association
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  Association of Military Surgeons of the United States
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  Reserve Officers Association
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  Order of Military Medical Merit
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  Merit Cross
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  USPHSCC Surgeon General Badge
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  Office of HHS ID Badge