VADM Jerome M. Adams, MD, MPH, is the 20th Surgeon General of the United States.  Dr. Adams has bachelor’s degrees in biochemistry and psychology from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, a master of public health degree from the University of California at Berkeley, and a medical degree from Indiana University School of Medicine, and is a board-certified anesthesiologist.  Prior to being selected for his current position, he served as the Indiana State Health Commissioner from 2014 to 2017 where he presided over Indiana’s efforts to deal with the state’s unprecedented HIV outbreak, caused by the sharing of needles among people who inject drugs.

Dr. Adams’ motto as Surgeon General is “better health through better partnerships.” As Surgeon General, he is committed to maintaining strong relationships with the public health community and forging new partnerships with non-traditional partners.

As Surgeon General, VADM Adams oversees the operations of the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, which has approximately 6,500 uniformed health officers who serve to promote, protect and advance the health and safety of our nation.