Oral

Since 2003, the states of Arkansas, Florida, and Michigan have created the post of state Surgeon General to address public health needs in their states. While Surgeons General in each state share the same title, they are organizationally, functionally, and operationally unique in their relationships to state government and public health practice. In their similarities and differences, they each provide insight into issues and strategies for strengthening the public health system. In this session, the Surgeons General of Arkansas, Florida, and Michigan will tell the stories of the creation and early implementation of their posts and we will present the findings of a 2009 report based on qualitative research into the creation and initial implementation of Michigan’s post, which was the first. The goal of this session is to foster an understanding of the experience and lessons learned in the three states, and to discuss options for states contemplating a similar structure. We will conclude the session with a panel discussion with the three Surgeons General on issues based on the findings of the case study such as political feasibility, autonomy, organization, and fiscal sustainability.

Session Objectives: At the end of this session, participants will be better able to: 1.Describe three models for state-level Surgeon General. 2.Formulate health policy and/or political factors within a state that might lead to the creation of the post of Surgeon General for that State. 3.Discuss options for states considering the role of a state-level Surgeon General for strengthening their public health system

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH)