Source: washingtontimes.com
President Obama on Monday nominated Dr. Regina Benjamin to be the next U.S. surgeon general, praising her work as a physician in helping the poor in rural Alabama. Benjamin who has received numerous awards during her career is especially known for establishing the Bayou La Batre Rural Health Clinic in that state.
Dr. Benjamin cited her own family’s health care struggle in promising to be “America’s doctor.” If she is confirmed by the Senate to the nation’s top public health post, Dr. Benjamin will face the ongoing challenge of the H1N1 influenza pandemic as the flu season nears.
He detailed her philanthropy – from rebuilding the clinic three times after major hurricanes and a fire to offering financial help for people who couldn’t afford their prescriptions – and offered a line similar to one used to describe his decision not to take a top job at a private law firm when leaving Harvard Law.
Obama names Ala. doctor surgeon general
