Dr Janette Nesheiwat, a seasoned physician and public health advocate, has been nominated by President-elect Donald Trump to serve as the next Surgeon General of the United States. With a career spanning clinical medicine, disaster relief, and media engagement, Dr Nesheiwat brings a dynamic background to this prominent role. Her appointment, pending Senate confirmation, is poised to influence the nation’s public health landscape during a critical time.
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Born on August 25, 1976, in Carmel, New York, she is the daughter of Christian Jordanian immigrants. Following the loss of her father at a young age, her mother, Hayat Nesheiwat, a registered nurse, raised Janette and her four siblings in Umatilla, Florida. This upbringing, shaped by resilience and a strong work ethic, laid the foundation for her commitment to service and healthcare.
Dr Janette Nesheiwat’s name can be phonetically pronounced as
“Juh-NET Neh-SHAY-wat”
. The emphasis is on the second syllable of her surname, with a soft “sh” sound. Her first name follows the conventional pronunciation of “Janette,” a common variation of Janet.
Dr Nesheiwat’s academic journey began at the University of South Florida, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 2000. She then pursued medical studies at the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine, earning her degree in 2005. After completing her family medicine residency at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in 2009, she embarked on a career that blended hands-on patient care with leadership roles in emergency medicine. Over the years, Dr Nesheiwat has become known for her ability to address a wide range of medical conditions, from heart attacks to infectious diseases such as COVID-19 and monkeypox. As one of five medical directors at CityMD, a network of urgent care centers in New York and New Jersey, she has led teams in delivering high-quality, accessible healthcare to thousands of patients annually.
Her dedication extends beyond clinical settings. Dr Nesheiwat has participated in disaster relief efforts worldwide, providing medical care in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, the Joplin tornadoes, and international crises in Haiti, Morocco, and Poland. These experiences have not only demonstrated her adaptability but also her commitment to serving communities in dire need. Her work with organizations like Samaritan’s Purse has further cemented her reputation as a compassionate and skilled responder during emergencies.
In addition to her clinical and humanitarian contributions, Dr Nesheiwat has become a trusted voice in public health communication. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she gained prominence as a medical contributor on Fox News, where her clear, evidence-based analysis provided reassurance and guidance to a nation grappling with uncertainty. Her ability to translate complex medical information into relatable advice has positioned her as a bridge between the medical community and the public, a skill that will be essential if she assumes the role of Surgeon General.
Her nomination by President-elect Trump underscores her alignment with key healthcare priorities, including preventive medicine and empowering individuals to take charge of their health. Trump praised her as “a fierce advocate and strong communicator for public health,” highlighting her extensive clinical experience and ability to connect with diverse audiences. If confirmed, Dr Nesheiwat will be tasked with addressing critical issues such as mental health, chronic disease prevention, and healthcare accessibility, particularly for underserved populations.
Dr Nesheiwat’s approach to healthcare emphasizes prevention and education. She has consistently advocated for routine screenings, vaccinations, and healthy lifestyle choices as foundational elements of long-term well-being. Her public health philosophy aligns with her entrepreneurial efforts, such as selling vitamins online, which reflect her belief in holistic approaches to health. Beyond her medical practice, she is the author of the forthcoming book
Beyond the Stethoscope: Miracles in Medicine
, where she shares stories and insights from her career, providing a glimpse into the human side of healthcare.
Her nomination also highlights the role of family in shaping her leadership style. Coming from a family with a history of public service, Dr Nesheiwat’s career reflects a blend of medical expertise and civic engagement. Her sister, Julia Nesheiwat, served as a homeland security adviser during Trump’s first administration and is married to Republican Representative Mike Waltz of Florida, underscoring the family’s involvement in governance and public service.
Despite her impressive credentials, Dr Nesheiwat’s nomination has not been without critique. Some public health experts have expressed concerns about her limited experience in policymaking, an aspect that often defines the Surgeon General’s role. Dr Howard Markel, a medical historian, noted that while clinical expertise is valuable, the position requires a deep understanding of public health systems and the ability to influence national policies. However, supporters argue that her clinical background, disaster relief experience, and communication skills make her uniquely qualified to engage the public and advocate for actionable health initiatives.
If confirmed, Dr Nesheiwat will succeed Dr Vivek Murthy, stepping into a role that demands both leadership and empathy. The Surgeon General serves as the nation’s top spokesperson on health issues, shaping public opinion and guiding responses to health crises. Dr Nesheiwat’s ability to inspire trust, coupled with her firsthand experience on the front lines of medicine, positions her to address pressing challenges such as the mental health crisis, vaccine hesitancy, and disparities in healthcare access.
Dr Janette Nesheiwat’s nomination represents a fusion of clinical expertise, humanitarian service, and public health advocacy. Her journey from a small town in Florida to the national stage reflects a lifelong commitment to improving lives through medicine. As she prepares to take on one of the most visible roles in public health, her tenure could bring a renewed focus on preventive care, equitable access, and the power of communication in building a healthier nation.