As public health becomes political, state surgeons general play delicate role • Alaska Beacon

Dr. Ralph Abraham has been appointed Louisiana ’s first -ever surgeon general.

Abraham is a former three -term Republican congressman who served in the U.S. House from 2015-2021 .

He recently endorsed a state law classifying abortion drugs as controlled substances.

Abraham joined the bill-signing ceremony in May when Louisiana made Louisiana the first state to classify the medication abortion drugs mifepristone and misoprostol.

On most health indicators, Louisiana consistently ranks among the bottom half of states.

Nearly half of state and local public health employees left their jobs between 2017 and 2021 .

Florida 's surgeon general, Joseph Ladapo , has come under fire for his views against mask-wearing during the pandemic.

Dr. Diana Ramos , an OB-GYN, has prioritized reproductive health, contraception and abortion access.

Michigan was the first state to create a surgeon general’s position, in 2003 .

Dr. Kay Chandler , who has been the surgeon general in Arkansas since April 2023 , said her role is to be a “voice to the state and to citizens on public health issues”.