Satcher Sworn In as Surgeon General, Talks of Gratitude

Dr. David Satcher, who rose from poverty to national prominence, was sworn in as surgeon general Friday, and he promised to give back to the nation that helped him.

“I know the American dream does not end when it comes true,” he said during the Oval Office ceremony.

President Clinton said he expects Satcher to help explain the nation’s complex health system, along with the stunning but sometimes confusing medical breakthroughs. But he said Satcher could make the greatest impact by persuading Americans to stop smoking, eat right and exercise.

“Dr. Satcher will give us plain talk and sound advice about what each of us can do to live healthier lives,” Clinton said.

The surgeon general’s post has been a bully pulpit for public health issues, with past holders focusing on the dangers of AIDS, smoking and venereal disease.

Satcher has not discussed his agenda in detail, but he said Friday that he will focus on personal responsibility for improving health, including prevention of teenage pregnancy and smoking.

Appearing for the first time in the traditional surgeon general’s uniform, Satcher fills an office that has been vacant for more than three years, since Dr. Joycelyn Elders was forced to resign.

He was Clinton’s second choice to replace Elders, after Dr. Henry Foster, who failed to win Senate confirmation. Satcher also faced opposition from conservatives, but he was approved Tuesday, 63-35.

“I want to especially applaud the Senate for conducting such a lively and healthy debate,” Satcher said to laughter after being sworn in.