The United States has introduced a new global health strategy that prioritizes American interests while aiming to improve health in other countries. Health experts express concern that this shift could undermine years of progress in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) if these countries cannot secure adequate funding for their health systems.
The strategy emphasizes disease control before it reaches the US, which might provide opportunities for collaboration but can also create a dependency on US resources. Experts like Jirair Ratevosian suggest that while the plan may enhance US health innovations, it might unintentionally sideline local researchers in LMICs.
Success relies on mutual investment and prioritizing local health needs over a purely American-focused agenda. Experts warn that if LMICs are unable to meet performance benchmarks for funding, their health systems could weaken, potentially leading to more significant health issues in the future.
Difficult words
- strategy — A plan to achieve a goal or objective.
- concern — A feeling of worry about something.
- collaboration — Working together to achieve a common goal.
- funding — Money provided for a specific purpose.
- innovations — New ideas or methods to improve something.
- prioritizing — Deciding what is most important.
- benchmark — Standards or points of reference for measuring.benchmarks
- health systems — Organizations that provide medical care and services.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How can collaboration improve health outcomes in LMICs?
- What are the potential risks of depending on US resources?
- In what ways can LMICs maintain their independence in health strategies?
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