American Medical Association Announces New Chief Health and Science Officer

CHICAGO — The American Medical Association (AMA) today announced the hiring of Frederick M. Chen, M.D., M.P.H., as its new chief health and science officer. Chen joins the AMA after serving most recently as professor and vice chair for clinical services in the University of Washington School of Medicine’s Department of Family Medicine, and as chief of family medicine at Harborview Medical Center.

“With his extensive experience in research, clinical practice, and public health, Dr. Chen will be a wonderful addition to the AMA team as we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, confront misinformation, advocate for science-based public health policies, and help physicians uphold ethics of the medical profession,” said James L. Madara, M.D., AMA chief executive officer and executive vice president.

“I am excited to join the AMA team at this important and challenging time for public health in our country and world,” said Chen. “The COVID-19 pandemic exposed critical gaps in our systems and infrastructures that revealed deep inequities in health and access to care. I’m eager to get started as we strive to improve the health of the nation and continue to work toward optimal health for all.”