CHICAGO — The American Medical Association (AMA), the nation's largest physician organization, announced today the election of surgeon David J. Welsh, MD, MBA, FACS to its Board of Trustees. An AMA member since 1981, Dr. Welsh is a general surgeon in private practice in Batesville, Ind. He currently serves as chair of the AMA Council on Science & Public Health and previously chaired the AMA Organized Medical Staff Section Governing Council.

“My professional mission is to help physicians care for their patients by creating the tools needed to bring stakeholders together and improve physicians’ practice environment,” said Dr. Welsh. “Strong, motivated leadership from our AMA is critical to providing the best pathway to improve health care for our physicians and their patients. It is an honor to represent my peers in medicine on the AMA Board of Trustees.”

An advocate on the local and national levels, Dr. Welsh has worked on a numerous legislative and policy efforts, including expanding access to mental health care; preservation of Indiana’s Medical Malpractice Act; improved maternal and infant health; successful efforts to combat drug shortages; and expansion of trauma care in Indiana.

He is a member of the American College of Surgeons Board of Regents and the recipient of several honors including the Arthur Ellenberger Advocacy Award for Excellence in State Advocacy from the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Health Policy and Advocacy Group.

Dr. Welsh earned his undergraduate degree from Notre Dame University and a medical degree from Indiana University School of Medicine. He also earned his MBA at Miller School of Business at Ball State University. He is a proud husband, father, and grandfather.