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Tallahassee, Fla. — Today, the Florida Department of Health is recognizing the importance of Florida’s physicians on National Doctors Day. This day serves as a reminder of the crucial role physicians play in protecting and improving the health of all Florida residents and visitors.

“Florida’s physicians work tirelessly to provide high quality care and improve the health of our state,” said State Surgeon General and Secretary Dr. Celeste Philip. “The department is extremely grateful to the nearly 60,000 Florida physicians for the amazing care they provide and the lives they touch every day.”

During the recent elevated flu season, physicians worked closely with public health officials to ensure access to vaccinations and treatment, and prevent the spread of seasonal influenza in Florida. The department worked with health care providers around the state to share information and guidance on flu, especially as it relates to our most vulnerable populations including children and seniors.

Collaboration between the department and physicians statewide was integral in response to recent public health issues facing Florida including influenza, Zika, and the opioid epidemic. Without physicians diagnosing and reporting diseases that impact public health every day, the department and our doctors specializing in public health would not be able to prevent and contain disease outbreaks.

One of the department’s top priorities is to increase immunization rates among children. Doctors are an essential part of making sure that every clinical visit is an opportunity for children to get recommended vaccinations to prevent dangerous and often times deadly diseases.

In addition to treating illness, physicians also work with their patients to improve or maintain good health. Keeping people healthy reduces the chance for costly hospital visits and helps people live longer while enjoying a high quality of life.

On National Doctors Day, take the time to thank your physician and physicians across the state for all that they do to keep their patients and their communities healthy.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @HealthyFla. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.