Public Health, Lost in Translation

The work of the U.S. public health system is invisible to many of us. That’s why public health guidance is often misunderstood – and ultimately mistrusted – by Americans on both sides of the political aisle. And in times of uncertainty, when clear guidance matters most, the gap between perception and reality is especially costly. In this episode, Michael speaks with Chelsea Cipriano, Managing Director of the Common Health Coalition. Drawing on her experience at the federal, state and local levels, Chelsea explains how mixed messaging, pandemic-era missteps and a lack of clear storytelling have eroded trust in public health. She also highlights what leaders can do to rebuild trust and find new ways to fund the work that keeps communities healthy. The Center for Public Health Systems at Columbia's Mailman School of Public Health conducts needed research, facilitates public discussions, develops policy proposals and provides educational programs, all with the goal of encouraging a better, more efficient and more equitable public health system. This work builds on the recognition that the nation’s public health system is currently under-resourced, under-paid and under-valued, and that a stabilized and strengthened system would benefit all of us.