A Medical Device Daily

President Bush has picked Kentucky cardiologist James Holsinger Jr. as the 18th surgeon general to oversee the U.S. Public Health Serivce.

Holsinger is professor of preventive medicine at the University of Kentucky (Lexington) and has taught at several U.S. medical schools.

"As America's chief health educator, he will be charged with providing the best scientific information available on how Americans can make smart choices that improve their health and reduce their risk of illness and injury," Bush said in a statement.

Health and Human Services Secretary Michael Leavitt urged the Senate to quickly confirm Holsinger. In a statement, Leavitt termed Hosinger an "impressive individual," his experience making him "an excellent choice to serve as 'America's doctor.'"

Holsinger has served as the Secretary for Health and Family Services for the Commonwealth of Kentucky, the Chancellor of the University of Kentucky Medical Center and he has held numerous academic and administrative appointments. Holsinger's 26-year career with the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs culminated in his appointment as Under Secretary for Health in 1992. In addition, Holsinger served more than 30 years in the U.S. Army Reserve, retiring with the rank of Major General in 1992.