Regina Benjamin new surgeon general

WASHINGTON (AP) - The Senate has confirmed Dr. Regina Benjamin to be the U.S. surgeon general, elevating a well-known Alabama family physician to be the nation's top doctor.

Benjamin, 53, was approved by voice vote. She was the first black woman to head a state medical society, received the Nelson  Mandela Award for Health and Human Rights and just last fall received a MacArthur Foundation "genius grant."

But Benjamin made headlines in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, with her determination to rebuild her rural health clinic. It serves 4,400 patients who would be hard-pressed to find care elsewhere.

Alabama Senator Jeff Sessions said after her confirmation, "I’m delighted that the Senate voted unanimously to approve Regina Benjamin—one of Alabama’s most dedicated and civic-minded medical professionals—to be ‘America’s Doctor.’ Dr. Benjamin has an extensive resume, including her time as an Associate Dean for Rural Health at the University of South Alabama, and her service as a Chair of the Medical Association of the State of Alabama—the first black woman to hold that position. But equally impressive is her resolute spirit, compassion, and commitment to her community, which was so evident in her care for patients after Hurricane Katrina. The American people will undoubtedly benefit from her knowledge and unwavering dedication to improving the public’s health and wellness."

He continued, “I applaud President Obama for his nomination of Dr. Benjamin, and I greatly appreciate the work of Sen. Mitch McConnell, the Republican Leader, for making this vote possible tonight. This is indeed a proud day for the people of Alabama.”