Statement Attributable to: Susan R. Bailey, M.D. President, American Medical Association

"The AMA is concerned by recent news reports that public health officials have been intimidated and threatened for their work establishing local and state policies intended to stop the spread of COVID-19 and save lives. Particularly during this pandemic, it is important that decision-making be driven by science, data and evidence. Physicians, scientists and public health experts are equipped to interpret this data to help inform steps communities can take to improve health, safety and the well-being of our friends, neighbors and loved ones."

Earlier this year, the AMA affirmed the need for science-based decision making in this time of disinformation to develop a common understanding that we can trust. To achieve this, the AMA urged that our government's scientific institutions, now and in the future, be led by experts. The AMA also calls for an environment in which physicians, scientists and other experts are free to communicate evidence-based, factual information without fear of retaliation or retribution. In words and in actions - and especially at this moment - we should be encouraging careers in public health, not discouraging them.