In this episode, Steven breaks down a tumultuous week in public health and healthcare policy — from a growing trade war with China and its potential impact on medical imports, to the elimination of a vital pain research office at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). He also unpacks the mixed messaging from HHS Secretary RFK Jr. on vaccines, including unchecked claims about measles treatments.

Tune in for a timely and important public health update.

Among the highlights in this episode:

00:57: Steven unpacks the wave of new tariffs, and how they might impact healthcare costs and access

04:14: Steven explains the implications for patients if pharmaceutical products and medical devices face future tariffs

06:45: Steven discusses the shutdown of the NIH’s Office of Pain Policy and Planning, and how it could stall research and support for people living with chronic pain

08:23: Steven addresses RFK Jr.'s shifting statements on vaccines in response to a second measles-related death in Texas

09:12: Steven raises concern over RFK Jr.’s promotion of unproven treatments for measles, including cod liver oil and vitamin A

10:25: Steven explains why these alternative therapies can be harmful and misleading, especially when used instead of scientifically validated treatments

11:42: Steven gives a shout-out to GHLF’s Healthcare Matters podcast episode featuring former FDA Commissioner Peter Pitts, exploring deeper implications of agency cuts. You can listen to the full episode here: https://ghlf.org/healthcarematters/#episode55

12:10: Steven announces the launch of the new Lupus Help Center at www.lupushelpcenter.org — a go-to resource for people living with lupus

Contact Our Host

Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF.

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