Surgeon General's Branch

This might seem a bit random, but I've been thinking about a career in military medicine. Does anyone know which branch the Surgeon General belongs to? Also, what branch would be the best for a high schooler who wants to go into medicine?

The position of the U.S. Surgeon General is not tied to a specific branch of the military. The Surgeon General is the leading spokesperson on matters of public health in the U.S. government and is appointed by the president for a four-year term. Although this role typically involves someone with a military rank, the position itself is a civilian role in the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, one of the eight uniformed services in the United States and is not a branch of the military.

For a high school student interested in pursuing a career in military medicine, there are several paths you can consider. All branches of the military - Army, Navy, Air Force, and even the Coast Guard - have their own Medical Corps.

For example, the Army has the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP), which can pay for medical school in return for a service obligation. The Navy has a similar program. The Air Force also offers the Health Professions Scholarship Program, which covers tuition, fees, and books, and provides a monthly stipend.

Alternatively, you could consider a service academies like the United States Military Academy (West Point) or the United States Naval Academy. While they don't offer a pre-med major, they do provide the foundational sciences that are essential for students considering medical school.

Remember, you will need to meet the physical and academic qualifications for the military path you choose, in addition to fulfilling your medical school requirements. Always research thoroughly and consider discussing your plans with a military recruiter or advisor to make the best informed decision about your future.