FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: APRIL 16, 2014
Sterling, VA – The American Medical Student Association (AMSA), an independent organization representing nearly 40,000 physicians-in-training across the United States, fully supports the appointment of Dr. Vivek Murthy as U.S. Surgeon General. Dr. Murthy was an AMSA member during his medical training.
Nominated by President Barack Obama, Dr. Murthy has faced strong opposition from the National Rifle Association (NRA) and its supporters due to his longstanding advocacy for stronger gun regulations for private owners in the United States.
Firearm-related incidents contribute to approximately 85 deaths per day in the U.S., with more than 60,000 people suffering nonfatal gun injuries each year.
“As the founder of Doctors for America and a former emergency room physician, Dr. Murthy has dedicated his career to expanding access to affordable health care and advocating for his patients,” said Dr. Nida Degesys, AMSA National President. “The U.S. Surgeon General’s role is to address public health crises, and gun violence is undeniably one of them. Given his experience and understanding of the issue, AMSA believes Dr. Murthy is well-prepared to serve as ‘the nation’s physician.'”
AMSA strongly supports the passage of comprehensive federal violence prevention legislation, including a ban on the sale, manufacture, importation, ownership, and possession of firearms, except for law enforcement, military, and hunting purposes. The organization also calls for further research into violence as a public health emergency.
About the American Medical Student Association
AMSA is the oldest and largest independent association of physicians-in-training in the United States. Founded in 1950, AMSA is a student-governed, non-profit organization committed to representing the concerns of physicians-in-training. To learn more about AMSA, our strategic priorities, or joining the organization, please visit us online at www.amsa.org.