Surgeon General of California

Surgeon General of California

Nadine Burke Harris, the first Surgeon General of California

The Surgeon General of California is a state government position in California, responsible for advising the Governor of California on public health issues and leading initiatives to improve the health and well-being of Californians. The position was established to address the state's complex health challenges, including health disparities, chronic diseases, and the social determinants of health.

History

The office of the Surgeon General of California was created in 2019 by Governor Gavin Newsom. The establishment of this role marked a significant step in California's efforts to prioritize public health and address systemic health issues. The first person appointed to this position was Dr. Nadine Burke Harris, a pediatrician known for her work on the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on long-term health.

Responsibilities

The Surgeon General of California is tasked with:

• Advising the Governor on public health policy and strategy.
• Leading statewide public health campaigns and initiatives.
• Addressing health disparities and promoting health equity.
• Focusing on the prevention of chronic diseases and the promotion of mental health.
• Collaborating with various state agencies, healthcare providers, and community organizations to improve health outcomes.

Initiatives

One of the key initiatives led by the Surgeon General of California is the focus on adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and toxic stress. This initiative aims to reduce the prevalence of ACEs and mitigate their impact on health by promoting early intervention and trauma-informed care.

The office also works on initiatives related to:

• Mental health awareness and support.
• Nutrition and physical activity.
• Substance abuse prevention.
• Health education and literacy.

Impact

Since its inception, the office of the Surgeon General of California has played a crucial role in shaping public health policy in the state. By focusing on prevention and early intervention, the office aims to reduce healthcare costs and improve the quality of life for Californians.

Related pages

• Public health in California
• Governor of California
• Adverse childhood experiences
• Health equity