Good public health communication is vital in the coming years. The COVID-19 crisis has shown the importance, the need to have people who not only understand the science but can also communicate policies clearly and concisely to the broader public. I have shared this website in order to share the insights gained through my research and to shed light on how seemingly small policy changes can alter the course of lives. For more information, publications, collaboration or data please visit the contact page.
Recent Posts
- State Legislative Activity Supports Federal Evidence-Based HIV Prevention Initiative
DECEMBER 15, 2021 | RACHEL SCHECKMAN Across the nation, public health agencies have mounted herculean efforts to stem the COVID-19 pandemic while addressing a pre-existing HIV epidemic and an opioid crisis that is serving as a source for many new HIV outbreaks. Tackling these public health crises simultaneously presents significant challenges as overdose deaths have spiked in the past year while HIV resources… - Fortifying Public Health Requires Local Funding
Co-authored with : Christina Fuleihan Public health in Massachusetts has long been starved for funding. Local public health boards and their health departments play essential roles in providing basic public health services. Direct state funding is needed to expand services and improve resource sharing among the 351 local health departments in Massachusetts. The staffing and capabilities of… - Electoral disenfranchisement and COVID-19
Yesterday the Georgia House passed a bill that could disenfranchise millions of its voters. If this bill becomes law the state would require voters to have ID, restrict ballot drop box locations, and change the deadlines for absentee ballots. This bill is one of many being considered in Republican controlled legislatures throughout the country and… - Abortion Access and Covid-19
In March and April of 2020, as Covid-19 spread across the US, state governors issued executive orders closing restaurants, gyms, and other places of congregation. They feared that hospitals would run out of personal protective equipment (PPE) if patient volume surged. Thirty-three states suspended elective medical procedures to preserve PPE and hospital capacity, and 15 made some effort through… - The Feasibility of Safe Injection Sites in Massachusetts
Safe injection facilities (SIFs) are a critical harm reduction strategy for combating deaths, illnesses and other risks associated with illicit drug use. These sites do not condone or condemn the use of drugs, instead they allow addicted populations access to a safe space staffed with medical personnel. These at-risk individuals can test their drugs for…