As future physicians committed to advancing public health and improving health outcomes—both domestically and globally—we believe this withdrawal poses significant risks to the health and well-being of people in the United States and beyond. This decision undermines decades of collaborative work in combating infectious diseases such as polio, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS and weakens the global capacity to respond to emerging threats like COVID-19 and future pandemics. Moreover, it isolates the United States from a key global health body, diminishing its ability to influence international health policies and initiatives that directly affect the safety and security of its population.

Possible Impact on Public Health

The WHO provides essential support to the United States through:

• Pandemic Preparedness and Response: WHO’s early warning systems and coordinated efforts have been vital in managing public health emergencies such as COVID-19, Monkeypox, and Ebola. The U.S. relies on WHO’s Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS) to track emerging flu strains, supporting vaccine development and preparedness.
• Global Disease Surveillance: WHO-led networks provide critical data on emerging health threats, aiding U.S. efforts to prevent and respond to diseases like Zika, SARS, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). WHO’s initiatives help prevent the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases.
• Evidence-Based Guidelines: WHO develops science-driven recommendations for disease prevention, treatment protocols, and health system improvements that inform U.S. health policies.
• Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Mitigation: WHO leads global efforts to combat AMR by providing frameworks and surveillance data that support U.S. strategies to contain resistant infections.
• Vaccine Distribution: WHO initiatives such as COVAX facilitate equitable vaccine access, helping prevent the spread of infectious diseases to the U.S.

The decision to withdraw from the WHO threatens to disrupt these critical functions, weakening the U.S. ability to respond to global health emergencies and potentially increasing healthcare costs due to the loss of shared resources and expertise. By severing ties with the WHO, the United States risks losing access to invaluable data, technical guidance, and coordinated international efforts that are essential in mitigating the spread of infectious diseases. Additionally, this withdrawal could strain relationships with global partners, making it more challenging to collaborate on future health initiatives and compounding the financial and logistical burden on the U.S. healthcare system.

The withdrawal from WHO threatens to undermine these vital efforts and may create a leadership vacuum in global health governance, increasing the risk of delayed responses to international health emergencies that can directly impact American lives. Without the leadership and support of the United States, the WHO may struggle to mobilize the resources and expertise necessary to address pressing global health challenges. This absence of U.S. participation also sends a concerning message to the international community about the nation’s commitment to collective health security and solidarity during times of crisis.

Call to Action��

AMSA urges policymakers to reconsider this decision and advocate for continued U.S. engagement with the WHO. We believe that robust international cooperation and investment in global health initiatives are fundamental to protecting public health and achieving health equity. Reversing this decision would reaffirm the United States’ role as a global leader in health and strengthen the partnerships necessary to address pressing challenges, from pandemic preparedness to non-communicable disease management. In the face of global health challenges, unity and collaboration remain our strongest tools.��

AMSA stands ready to work with stakeholders to ensure that the U.S. remains an active and committed participant in global health efforts. We encourage policymakers to prioritize diplomacy and evidence-based decision-making in shaping the nation’s global health strategy, recognizing that these efforts directly contribute to the well-being and security of American communities. The AMSA (AMSA) is committed to advocating for policies that promote health equity, and global health partnerships. We remain dedicated to ensuring that public health remains a national and international priority. Through continued engagement with global health organizations, we can build a healthier, more equitable future for all.

Resources & References

To inform and support advocacy efforts, AMSA members may review the following resources:

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The post AMSA’s Response to President Trump’s Executive Order on the United States’ Withdrawal from the World Health Organization appeared first on AMSA.

Aligned with the “Principles Regarding War and Military Action” in our Preamble, Purposes, and Principles (PPP) document, AMSA vehemently “opposes an embargo of food, medicine, or medical supplies and equipment to any nation.” Our commitment extends to advocating for “a more humane approach to war and the resolution of international crises.” AMSA was present at American Public Health Association’s (APHA) annual meeting and we align with their Governing Council wholeheartedly and support an immediate ceasefire. We call on President Biden and Congress to take prompt action, emphasizing the imperative de-escalation of hostilities and for the restoration of basic needs for civilians.��

At AMSA, we have an unwavering commitment to a world where healthcare transcends borders, ensuring accessibility for all, especially in times of conflict. AMSA implores a resolute response from the U.S. government, stressing the urgency of humanitarian aid and restoration of basic necessities to ease the suffering for civilians amid this crisis.��

We urge all AMSA members to please use this to reach out to your Congress members and demand a ceasefire now.��

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1. Women and newborns bearing the brunt of the conflict in Gaza, UN agencies warn (no date) World Health Organization. Available at:
2. Ruby Mellen, A.G. (2023) Gaza reports more than 11,100 killed. that’s one out of every 200 people., The Washington Post. Available at:
3. Kingsley, P. (2023) Israel-hamas war: 24 hostages return to Israel as 39 Palestinians are freed under truce, The New York Times. Available at:

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On July 7, the Trump Administration announced that the U.S. would formally withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO). This is a major step backward, especially during our country’s crucial battle against COVID-19.

Not only does the WHO play a leadership role in global health emergencies such as COVID-19, but it also plays an immense role in the Global Polio Eradication, decreasing the global malaria death toll, and working with the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDs relief (PEPFAR) started by President Bush which has had remarkable success in saving millions of lives.

The WHO has provided immense support to the United States and globally during the COVID-19 pandemic. They have provided millions of PPE to 172 countries, deployed hundreds of medical teams and experts worldwide, and coordinated international research to accelerate COVID-19 vaccine development and accessibility.

The United States provides one-fifth of the WHO’s budget. The lack of this crucial funding can compromise the WHO’s efforts in the global COVID-19 vaccine production and distribution.

As a medical student, I applaud the WHO’s efforts in its continued support of front-line healthcare workers globally. Leading medical organizations such as the American Medical Association have stated that a withdrawal from the WHO “puts the health of our country at grave risk” and is a “major setback to science, public health, and global coordination efforts.” During a global pandemic, when the WHO’s leadership is of utmost importance, a withdrawal will compromise an international coordinated response against COVID-19. The U.S. should not withdraw from the World Health Organization. In July 2020, President-elect Biden vowed to reverse a WHO withdrawal. As an organization, we are holding President-elect Biden accountable for this vow and counting on him to restore the U.S. relationship with the World Health Organization, the world’s leading public health agency.

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“No puedo respirar,” she said at the other end of the phone line. Lucia’s son would normally accompany her to primary care visits to act as a translator. However, the COVID-19 pandemic made this impossible. “Can you call an interpreter?” the physician asked the staff in the office as he shuffled papers around. The dark bags under his eyes gave away the exhaustion; exhaustion from too many sick patients, too little time, too many shortages. There was a climate of frustration, distress, and helplessness in the office. It was evident that the COVID-19 pandemic had brought to the surface not only the vast racial inequalities that plague our health system but also the deeply concerning barriers of caring for patients with Limited-English Proficiency (LEP).��

Lucia is one of the 20 million people living in the U.S with limited English proficiency. According to the it is predicted that this number will increase to 67 million by 2050. According to Jill Wilson, a senior research analyst in the Metropolitan Policy Program,. Asian and Pacific island languages make 18.4 %, Indo-European languages make 11.9 %, and 3.4 % include other languages such as Arabic, African, and Native American.��

Language barriers make it difficult for millions of people to navigate our already complex healthcare system due to the significant shortage of medical interpreters and�� bilingual physicians. This significant shortage translates to a subpar delivery of care to patients with LEP and in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic it often becomes one of the biggest barriers in a life-or-death situation. Multiple research studies have revealed that language barriers are associated with lower patient comprehensions, satisfaction, and poorer clinical outcomes and increased readmission rates.

Due to the vast array of people that have Limited-English Proficiency (LEP), it is imperative that providers are able to accommodate these individuals so that they may deliver the best medical care possible. Patients with LEP are entitled to language assistance under Title IV of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. Additionally, Section 1557 Affordable Care Act requires covered entities to provide free, accurate, and timely language assistance services to individuals with LEP, including the use of qualified bilingual/multilingual staff. Qualified bilingual/multilingual staff must demonstrate proficiency in speaking, understanding and communicating in English and at least one other language. Unfortunately, there is often a shortage of staff able to provide these vital sources for LEP patients, and thus it is imperative that providers can communicate with these individuals.

Beyond the success of the NIH-awarded Medical Spanish online courses, Canopy has standardized the first-ever bilingual medical proficiency scale, and launched one of a kind Canopy Credential: Test of Bilingual Medical Proficiency for Medical Students and Providers. will not only certify bilingual physicians with globally recognized scales, but also help the hospitals to comply with ACA Section 1557. The Canopy’s Medical Spanish training and credentialing solutions can empower bilingual physicians to achieve a successful and comprehensive second-language acquisition language journey. If you are interested in learning more about Canopy’s Medical Spanish curriculum, Canopy Learn eLearning System, or being certified as a Medical Spanish physician to serve more patients with LEP, please visit Canopy at to get more perks! Learn more about AMSA member benefits with Canopy here.

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As a child growing up in the 1990’s, no one really talked about getting vaccinated; it was just a routine part of a doctor’s visit. As science and technology have progressed, children around the world have been getting vaccinated more than ever, and two diseases have been eradicated worldwide: smallpox and rinderpest, which infects cattle. In the United States, even more diseases have been nearly eradicated such as bacterial influenza, diphtheria, measles, mumps, rubella, and tetanus. Yet now, it is almost impossible to publicly speak about immunizations, without sparking a debate. Vaccines have become an increasingly controversial topic, especially in the political sphere.��

In an interview on Fox News in 2011, Michele Bachmann, a former republican congresswoman from Minnesota, criticized the HPV vaccine, proclaiming, “There’s a woman who came up crying to me tonight after the debate. She said her daughter was given that vaccine. She told me her daughter suffered mental retardation as a result of that vaccine. There are very dangerous consequences.” Similarly, during his 2016 presidential bid, republican senator from Kentucky, Rand Paul, declared, “I’ve heard of many tragic cases of walking, talking, normal children who wound up with profound mental disorders after vaccines.” This was a shocking statement, considering in addition to being a politician, Paul is also a physician, who graduated from Duke University School of Medicine and completed his residency in ophthalmology. These quotes spread fear-mongering among voters and resulted in concerned parents being reluctant or refusing to immunize their children.

Soon after, this country saw the rise of the anti-vaccine movement, which is identified as a major global health threat by the World Health Organization (WHO). Websites supporting this movement claim that there is a link between vaccines and autism, and promote conspiracy theories, misinformation, and myths linking the two. Many parents believe that vaccine overload (administering more than one vaccine at the same time) can weaken the immune system and have adverse effects, and that ingredients in some immunizations such as thiomersal, aluminum, or formaldehyde can lead to autism.��

Nevertheless, arguments against vaccination are contradicted by healthcare professionals. There is consensus among the scientific community that vaccine ingredients do not cause autism, administering more than one vaccine does not weaken a child’s immune system, and there is no direct or causal relationship between vaccines and autism. Organizations such as the American Medical Association (AMA), American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), American Public Health Association (APHA), and the U.S. Department of Education support immunization information systems, which are confidential computerized databases that record the immunization doses administered within a given area. Furthermore, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only children with severe, life-threatening allergies or certain medical conditions, such as a weakened immune system or Guillain-Barre Syndrome, should be permitted to skip inoculations.��

According to WHO/UNICEF and the United Nations (UN), vaccines are one of the most cost-effective public health interventions, preventing 2-3 million deaths per year. Although the majority of children in the United States have access to immunizations, healthcare disparities still exist globally, with many countries unable to meet the demands of their growing populations and millions of children not having access to potentially life-saving immunizations. For example, the percentage of children worldwide who received the DTP vaccine (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis) is used as an indicator to determine how well countries provide routine immunization services. Over the last three years, 116 million children received the DTP vaccine, with 112 countries sustaining at least 90% coverage of the DTP vaccine. However, countries such as Central African Republic, Chad, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea, Samoa, Somalia, South Sudan, Syrian Arab Republic, and Ukraine have less than 50% coverage of the DTP vaccine. Also, Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Pakistan are the three remaining polio endemic countries left in the world. Factors including military conflict, vaccine stock-outs, disease outbreak, under-investment in vaccine programs, and organizational problems contribute to vaccine coverage disparities in these countries. Having a more comprehensive disease prevention strategy and strengthening immunization programs to focus on vulnerable populations such as those who are homeless, incarcerated, have low-income, or children who have missed their vaccines, can help close the immunization gap.��

So, are vaccines a necessity to protect the public health, safety, and welfare of our future generations? Among the evidence-based medicine, pseudoscience, and publicized debates, you decide.����

For more information: ��

How you can help: ��

References��

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2017, March 17). FastStats – immunization. Retrieved November 19, 2019, from .��

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019, August 15). Who should not get vaccinated? Retrieved November 19, 2019, from .��

Every Child by Two / Vaccinate Your Family. (2018). Outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases. Retrieved November 19, 2019, from .��

Farley, R. (2011, September 14). An antidote for Bachmann’s anecdote. Retrieved November 19, 2019, from .��

Lopez, G. (2016, August 25). What diseases have vaccines eradicated? Retrieved November 19, 2019, from .��

Rosenfeld, E. (2015, February 3). Rand Paul clarifies his stance on vaccines. Retrieved November 19, 2019, from .��

UNICEF. (2019, July). Vaccination and immunization statistics. Retrieved November 19, 2019, from .��

World Health Organization. (2019). Ten health issues WHO will tackle this year. Retrieved November 19, 2019, from

The post To Vaccinate or Not to Vaccinate? Science Warns It’s Not Up for Debate. appeared first on AMSA.

Research comes out on a daily basis on how single-use plastics, the lack of recycling on a global scale, and the improper elimination of plastic waste are harming our health and the health of our children with . I am not writing this to instill fear, though some fear is expected, but to note what is and isn’t being done in the US and abroad to keep our world habitable for our future generations. At today’s rate, considerable action is needed fast.

By 2050, the weight of plastics in the ocean will outweigh the fish. Imagine going fishing with your friends and catching a water bottle. The number of fish will most likely diminish to a point where catching one is not only impressive, but a miracle.

Thankfully, 34 U.S. states are considering over 200 pieces of legislation to address plastic pollution. For example, Maryland . will prohibit a store of food establishment from providing single-use plastic carryout bags starting July next year. Such legislation, though focused on the state level, is monumental. We must begin to address the areas of plastic pollution that occur in everyday life. For example, . These 60 plastic bags are typically used for less than 15 minutes.����

The hope is that other states in the US will also ban single-use plastic and limit the production of harmful plastics like polystyrene, but let’s also look at the global scale. Though high-income plastics countries generate the most plastic waste per person, the mismanagement of plastic waste is what determines the risk of plastic entering the ocean. Unfortunately, China contributes the most to plastic pollution (28%) due to mismanagement. Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam contribute to 10, 6, and 6% of the plastic pollution. There have been non-profit efforts and even government efforts to improve this. “24 categories of consumer waste, including commonly recycled post-consumer plastics and paper products” in 2017. This, ironically though, meant other countries had no place to export their plastic which led to . Plastic mismanagement is a very complicated and interdisciplinary issue that needs to be assessed on a constant basis.����

The projection of plastic and the amount of pollution is quite daunting, but let’s now look at the bright side. Plastic pollution awareness has caught on, and there is continuous research on creating plastic alternatives. We also need to remind ourselves of the pros and cons of plastic use in hospitals. Estimates have shown . This is for sterile equipment and to save financially. As a hospital there are many advantages of plastic use, but these advantages are being abused.

Plastic pollution is a problem largely due to the lack of industrial and large governmental efforts. As consumers and as the future, it is our job to fight this issue head-on. I urge you to investigate how your state legislation, industries, and even global communities are fighting for you and your planet.

The post The Plastic Straw that Broke the Camel’s Back appeared first on AMSA.

When you hear of maternal mortality, you may think that it is a foreign concept that only occurs in parts of Asia or Africa. The harsh reality is that in the developed world, the United States has the worst maternal death rate and is the only country where the maternal mortality rate has increased, doubling over the past two decades. Maternal mortality refers to deaths due to complications from childbirth or pregnancy. The most common complications include severe bleeding, infections, high blood pressure, unsafe abortions, drug overdose, and complications from delivery. The good news is that most of these complications are preventable or treatable. In fact, in the United States, 60% of maternal deaths are preventable. For example, injecting Oxytocin after childbirth effectively reduces the risk of bleeding. Practicing good hygiene and recognizing/treating early signs can lower the risk of infection. Administering drugs such as magnesium sulfate for pre-eclampsia can reduce the risk of developing eclampsia. Lastly, it is important that women have access to contraception and safe abortion services as well as quality post-abortion care in order to prevent unwanted pregnancies and avoid maternal deaths.��

Unfortunately, health care disparities that exist globally make it difficult for women in other countries to have equal access to care. It is also important to consider intersectionality when trying to lower maternal mortality rates. For example, according to UNICEF, maternal mortality rates are 2-4 times higher among African-American women than among white women. Also, sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia account for 87% of maternal deaths. Specifically, sub-Saharan Africa has the highest maternal mortality ratio of 68% of all maternal deaths worldwide, while South Asia follows with a maternal mortality ratio of 19%. Globally, the maternal death ratio has declined by 35% from 2000 to 2017, according to the United Nations (UN). However, over 800 women are still dying each day from pregnancy and childbirth related complications and for every woman who dies, approximately 20 other women suffer from infections, disabilities, or injuries. Several factors can prevent women from receiving or seeking care during pregnancy or childbirth such as poverty, racism, distance to healthcare facilities, lack of information, inadequate services, and cultural practices. In order to improve maternal health, barriers that limit access to quality health services must be identified and addressed.��

Currently, there is a bill on the house and senate floor, titled the Reach Every Mother and Child Act (S.1776, H.R.4022). This bill was introduced by Susan Collins (R-ME) in the senate and by Dave Reichert (R-WA) in the house. It is currently co-sponsored by 15 democrats and 14 republicans in the senate including Elizabeth Warren and Mario Rubio, as well as 143 democrats and 69 republicans in the house including Joaquin Castro, Joe Kennedy, and Pramila Jayapal. This bi-partisan legislation aims to implement policies and provide foreign assistance in order to end preventable newborn, child, and maternal deaths globally. This bill would commit the U.S. government to coordinating and scaling healthcare solutions such as routine immunizations and breastfeeding. Specifically, improving breastfeeding practices could help save the lives of more than 800,000 children globally. The Reach Every Mother and Child Act would require a coordinated U.S. government strategy, establish rigorous reporting requirements, and ensure that the U.S. Agency for International Development creates the most effective programs.��

Are you ready to take action? Call-in or email your legislators and ask them to co-sponsor the Reach Every Mother and Child Act.��

Find your U.S. House representative’s contact information:��

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Find your U.S. Senate representatives’ contact information:

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For more information: ��

Join me in helping to get this bill passed. The lives of mothers and children around the world depend on it.��

References��

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019, September 4). Maternal mortality. Retrieved November 19, 2019, from https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/maternal-mortality/ index.html.��

Hollier, L. (2019, March 19). The painful truth about maternal deaths. Retrieved November 19, 2019, from .��

Nina, M., & Montagne, R. (2017, May 12). The last person you’d expect to die in childbirth. Retrieved November 19, 2019, from .��

Roser, M., & Ritchie, H. (2013, November 12). Maternal mortality. Retrieved November 19, 2019, from .��

Save the Children. (n.d.). Reach every mother and child act. Retrieved November 19, 2019, from .��

Shah, N. (2018, October 16). A soaring maternal mortality rate: what does it mean for you? Retrieved November 19, 2019, from .��

UNICEF. (2019, September). Maternal mortality. Retrieved November 19, 2019, from .��

World Health Organization. (2019, September 19). Maternal mortality. Retrieved November 19, 2019, from .

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The continues to be a population that relies on medicine, but their needs are rarely fully met. Disability can be temporary or permanent. If you break your leg, you are considered temporarily disabled. You would be covered by the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) to receive the same accommodations as someone who is in a wheelchair permanently. The difference is that people who are permanently a part of the disabled community face blatant discrimination in medicine as an everyday occurrence.

I have seen the discrimination firsthand. I have been on the receiving end of it, as a hard of hearing individual as well as someone with an invisible disability. It is incredibly frustrating that the healthcare system and the world disregard us as a minority. We are constantly overlooked, and we do not enjoy the same employment, education, and healthcare rights as other individuals.

For example, did you know people with physical and intellectual disabilities can be refused an organ? Despite the fact that this is federally illegal, there is not adequate federal enforcement, and so it is a frequent occurrence. This creates a life-threatening situation, which can be exacerbated by the lack of a medically-certified interpreter on staff. Those with intellectual disabilities often face discrimination when it comes to their health concerns being taken seriously. Many healthcare professionals will not actually address a disabled patient directly, and will instead talk to the other people in the room. In the disabled community, those with Autism and Down Syndrome often express that they feel hurt and embarrassed by this practice. This can lead to their not returning to that doctor or healthcare in general.

Under the ADA, a hospital needs to have accommodations for accessible medicine. An example of accessible medicine is an MRI machine that is made for those in wheelchairs. However, most hospitals do not supply them. Furthermore, outdated and inappropriate language is still used in the healthcare profession, even at times when they are addressing disabled patients. Care must be taken to look up appropriate language and make sure the words used to address patients are correct and are not discriminatory.

Unfortunately, everyone that is disabled faces discrimination, unfair treatment, and a lack of accessible medicine. Visual disabilities, mental health disabilities, learning disabilities, physical disabilities, hidden disabilities, cognitive disabilities, intellectual disabilities, and more. Consider the impact this has on a global level. In communities where non-disabled people barely have accessible medicine, the disparities the disabled population in healthcare face globally is astronomical. Each type of disability has a different impact on different communities. Imagine just living in a poor underserved rural community in an underserved country. Imagine trying to access medicine in such a community. To make matters worse, people who live in underserved countries are more prone to being disabled, especially from diseases that are no longer prominent in America, like polio.

Stand with me and many others to educate and advocate for these issues. There are huge gaps in policies and programs for disabled people. Do not wait until your loved one is discriminated against or you witness prejudice against yourself. Take action now! Call your representatives, , or even attend a protest! Start having those public discussions about the discrimination against disabled people. We would all enjoy having accessible healthcare.

Finally, as you consider these issues, also imagine the discrimination or obstacles that affect your disabled healthcare colleagues.

Learn more about the and the the��!

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770,000 lives lost. 1.7 million lives irrevocably altered. All in a year.

HIV, the deadliest pandemic, remains a devastating illness in the US and abroad. And yet, as we reflect on the past and see the tremendous strides we have taken, we can look forward with hope for an AIDS-free future.

stands as a reminder to us all that we must remain steadfast in our fight, that we are getting better, that things will improve. Even since last year, we have seen a massive improvement in accessing quality care for HIV. We’ve seen a 16% decline in the estimated number of new cases per year of HIV since 2010, and strategic changes are leading to an improvement in the number of those living with HIV accessing treatment. It is at this critical time when we could throw in the towel that we must instead embolden our efforts and fight to reduce the spread of not only HIV but of TB.��

HIV AND TB

HIV and Tuberculosis exist in a disturbingly intertwined state—TB is the leading cause of death among those infected with HIV, and HIV can worsen in those diagnosed with TB. Brought together, they serve to amplify their opposing effects—and enhance the lethality of their respective diseases.��

Since 2005, collaborative efforts between HIV and TB communities have saved 6.6 million lives. Still, in 2015, tuberculosis claimed 390,000 lives among people living with HIV. Drug-resistant TB presents a new and terrifying obstacle to face and overcome for those struggling with HIV.��

PEPFAR

PEPFAR (The President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief) is our most substantial investment in fighting for an end to AIDS—and it’s in trouble. This year, the President and the Senate have proposed funding cuts to PEPFAR, at a time when we should be digging in. As Ambassador Birx (U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator and Special Representative for Global Health Diplomacy) says, by “making sure that country-by-country, community-by-community, that there’s still HIV awareness – awareness of where it is in their community, awareness about what their risks are, and awareness that there is both prevention and treatment tools that actually can change the course of this pandemic” we can work towards a more efficient and streamlined access to care and prevention of HIV.��

Learn more about PEPFAR !

[highlight]Want to get involved? Try to support PEPFAR using this script![/highlight]

Senator’s office: “Hello, this is ___________’s office, to whom am I speaking?”��

You: “Hello, my name is ____ and I am a (pre-medical/medical student) at _______. As one of the 30,000 members of the AMSA in support of PEPFAR, the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, I wanted to share why I support PEPFAR. PEPFAR is a critical program that has saved millions of lives and advances US security interests abroad. As a future medical professional, I want to be sure that programs exist to fight this destructive and expensive disease. Will Senator _______ commit to a $1 billion dollar increase for PEPFAR in Fiscal Year 2020?”��

Senator’s office: “Thank you for calling! (May provide an answer to the question above, may not). Can we get your information for a callback?”

More information:

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A majority of physicians struggle with language barriers, often with the 45 million Spanish-speakers in the United States. The risks of miscommunication are too high to ignore.

What can you do?

Patient-centered care requires meaningful communication. Practice your medical Spanish terminology with this short quiz, courtesy of Canopy Learn, and see how ready you are to provide the best care to your future patients, regardless of their primary language.

Are you ready to answer the following questions? Let’s go!

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