Protecting Public Health in New York City Amidst a Potential Trump Presidency
New York Officials Pledge to Protect Reproductive Rights and Access to Healthcare
The day after Donald Trump secured a second presidential term, New York officials pledged to protect residents’ reproductive rights and access to healthcare. Experts braced for a likely assault on local public health systems.
A Shift in Federal Health Policy
Trump has indicated support for barring federal funding for gender-affirming care, reforming parts of the Affordable Care Act, and prohibiting the abortion pill mifepristone to be sent by mail. Conservative lawmakers and strategists have voiced support for narrowing the scope of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, prompting outcry from many of the agency’s former directors.
Impact on Local Public Health
Under Trump, it’s likely that federal health agencies could lose power and credibility, said Dr. Peter Muennig, a professor of health policy and management at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health. Sharp funding cuts to federal health agencies would significantly impact local public health work, said Brett Harris, president of the New York State Public Health Association and a clinical associate professor at the University at Albany School of Public Health.
Local Health Departments’ Response
Local health departments will need to operate "on all four cylinders" under the coming administration, said Muennig. This could mean streamlining departmental operations to prepare for potential threats like bird flu, or working to create a system of abortion pill distribution if a nationwide abortion ban comes to pass.
Conclusion
While the prospect of a second Trump term is concerning, New York City’s public health officials are committed to protecting the health of all New Yorkers. The city’s health department will continue to promote and protect the health of all New Yorkers, regardless of who holds the Office of the President.
FAQs
Q: How will a Trump presidency impact public health in New York City?
A: Experts worry about a potential assault on local public health systems, including funding cuts to federal health agencies and a shift in federal health policy.
Q: What are the potential consequences of a Trump presidency on public health?
A: A potential loss of power and credibility for federal health agencies, sharp funding cuts to federal health agencies, and a narrowing of the scope of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Q: How will local health departments respond to a Trump presidency?
A: Local health departments will need to operate "on all four cylinders" under the coming administration, streamlining departmental operations and preparing for potential threats like bird flu.
Q: What can New Yorkers do to stay informed about public health issues?
A: New Yorkers can stay informed by following local public health officials and organizations, and submitting to our reader survey to share their thoughts, concerns, and questions on how Trump’s presidency could impact public health in their city.
