The New York Police Department (NYPD) recently swore in Dr. Lynn O’Connor, making her the first Black female police surgeon in the agency’s history.
Prior to her swearing-in event, she granted “GMA3” an exclusive interview and said, “If you would have told me at 10 years of age that I’d be sitting here speaking with you, and soon to be sworn in as the first Black female police surgeon for the NYPD, I wouldn’t believe it.”
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At Mercy Medical Center and St. Joseph Hospital, O’Connor also oversees colon and rectal surgery. She will assess the readiness of cops for duty, offer medical care for hurt personnel, and advise them in her new position with the NYPD.
Police officers spend a lot of time caring for others, according to Dr. O’Connor, who spoke about her experiences working with police officers. As a result, they don’t have as much time for self-care.
She noted, “With my background in this position, I am uniquely positioned to develop colorectal cancer awareness programs, screening programs, and various other initiatives that are going to be key in keeping our officers safe and keeping them healthy and keeping them fit for service,” she said.
According to a statement from NYPD Chief of Personnel John Benoit, “We’re very excited about this historical appointment of the first Black female police surgeon in the department’s 178-year history.”
He further added, “Dr. O’Connor is an inspiration to all employees, and her expertise will prove to be valuable to our members – especially those who have been impacted by colorectal cancer.”
O’Connor emphasized the necessity for Black doctors while pointing out that there aren’t many of them in the country.
Dr. O’Connor noted, “Studies have shown when a patient is treated with a physician that is of the same race or ethnicity, they have markedly improved outcomes.” She added, “They’re diagnosed quicker, they’re seen quicker, their overall health is improved. And that leads to saving lives, that leads to longevity, which is what I want to do when we get into the NYPD.”
O’Connor addressed all the young girls observing her, saying she wanted them to know they were valuable and that their objectives mattered.
“You can be what you can’t see,” she remarked encouraging the audience. “Perseverance pays off.”
