Transforming Health Care and Science: Key Highlights from Week One That Impact Everyone – The JOLT News Organization

By Debra L. Glasser, M.D.

Our new president has made some big changes in his first week that could impact science and health care. One major move puts a hold on important scientific communication, which can affect communities everywhere.

Stopping Scientific Communication

The executive order restricts the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) from releasing announcements or updates. This includes the Centers for Disease Control’s (CDC) Morbidity and Mortality Report (MMWR), which shares vital public health information. This report is essential for doctors, nurses, and researchers. The pause on its publication is significant as it’s the first since 1960, missing out on crucial updates like those about bird flu.

A historical instance highlights the importance of the MMWR. When I attended medical school, this report was vital in uncovering the AIDS epidemic. It connected various cases of unusual illnesses, helping to identify HIV’s origins and guiding years of research on prevention and treatment.

Impact on Health Agencies

The HHS oversees the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Recently, these agencies were ordered to stop public communications and travel; only emergency matters are allowed. This freeze on communication puts vital discussions about health risks and scientific findings on hold.

Withdrawing from Global Health Partnerships

Another concerning move is the decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO). Global health threats, like pandemics, need international cooperation. Past victories against diseases like HIV and Ebola show that no country can handle these challenges alone. Ignoring this reality could have dire consequences.

The Reality of Mental Health and Leadership

Mental health issues often go unnoticed in our culture. It’s alarming to think that someone with an alcohol use disorder is leading the Department of Defense. Addiction is a serious condition that requires treatment, and without proper care, it can leave our nation vulnerable in times of crisis.

Moreover, recent executive orders that target diversity and inclusion can hurt vulnerable populations. Our Declaration of Independence emphasizes equality, and we should strive to uphold that principle for everyone.

Access to Health Care

We can expect more changes that will affect health care access and costs:

• The reversal of drug pricing models could lead to even higher medication costs.
• Safety protections for scientists, such as Dr. Anthony Fauci, have been revoked, potentially discouraging experts from pursuing vital public health work.
• Changes to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act could leave many without crucial insurance coverage.
• Reversing progress on women’s rights concerning reproductive health may push us back to dangerous practices from earlier decades.
• Plans to alter anti-trust laws could worsen the current monopolies in health care, making it harder for individuals to access affordable services.

The Importance of Science

Science is about uncovering the truth, even if that truth doesn’t always align with personal beliefs or financial interests. When scientific freedom is stifled, it opens the door to misinformation and outdated ideas.

Policy Matters

This week, new legislation has been proposed in our state to help manage health care costs. Changes in government can be slow in a democracy, but they are possible. Keep an eye on these developments as they progress.

Staying Informed

• Stay updated about health news from reliable sources. As government restrictions grow, trustworthy information may become harder to find.
• Learn from history—understanding past events can help us navigate the present and future.
• Prioritize your health and maintain your health insurance.
• Be prepared for unexpected medical expenses.
• Follow politics closely to support candidates whose views align with your values during elections.

As Aristotle wisely noted, it’s important to think critically. “Be a free thinker and don’t accept everything you hear as truth.” The more we know, the more we realize there is still so much to discover.

If you’re involved in science, policy, or related fields, I encourage you to connect with me. Your insights are valuable as we navigate these changes together.

Debra L. Glasser, M.D. is a retired internal medicine physician in Olympia. Have a question for her? Reach out at drdebra@theJOLTnews.com