Global Health Institute

In an era of uncertainty and global challenges, Stephanie Psaki’s insights on global health policy serve as both a necessary reality check and a source of inspiration. As we prepare to enter the workforce, her discussion highlights the complexities of creating an impact in global health while also emphasizing the power of persistence and passion in driving change.

One of the key takeaways from Psaki’s talk was the shift in focus from crisis response to prevention. Historically, global health efforts have been reactive, waiting for a pandemic to strike before mobilizing resources. However, the Biden administration’s Global Health Security Strategy aimed to change this approach by prioritizing prevention.

The creation of the first-ever U.S. coordinator for global health security role and the expansion of bilateral partnerships reflect this commitment to building sustainable health models worldwide. This shift was not just about saving lives; it was also an effort to create a cost-effective strategy that ensured long-term stability in global health systems. However, achieving sustainable impact has not been without its challenges. Psaki highlighted the difficulties in securing funding, the ever-changing landscape of political administrations, and the need for bipartisan support. Programs like President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, which have historically received large investments, now face an uncertain future as policymakers debate the best ways to transition financial responsibility to the countries they support. Without a clear pathway for sustainability, these critical programs risk losing momentum, leaving vulnerable populations without essential care.

Despite these challenges, Psaki remains optimistic about the future. She reminds us that while the world may look different in five years, both in good and bad ways, there will always be opportunities to make a difference. Her words serve as a call to action. Rather than feeling overwhelmed by the magnitude of global health issues, we should focus on the areas where we can contribute meaningfully. Whether through policy, direct patient care, or advocacy, each of us has a role to play in shaping the future of global health security.

As we continue to work towards our futures, Psaki’s parting message resonates deeply: Change may not happen overnight, but through dedication and perseverance, we can be part of the long-term solutions that global health desperately needs. As we take our first steps into this journey, we do so with the knowledge that our efforts, however small they may seem, contribute to a larger movement toward global health equity and security.

Shrishti Chhajlani (N’26) is an undergraduate student at Georgetown University majoring in nursing. She is a student in the Conversations in Health: Global to Local class.