In Public Health, Non-Governmental Actors Are Rising to Meet the Moment

As federal public health capacity faces workforce losses, funding constraints, and shifting priorities, non-governmental actors are increasingly stepping in to sustain essential public health functions. Health care systems, universities, community organizations, philanthropy, and businesses are playing expanded roles in areas such as data collection, evidence-based guidance, workforce training, community outreach, and addressing health-related social needs.

Recent efforts include regional collaborations, academic data platforms, and coordinated guidance from medical societies to preserve access to trusted information. The article underscores that while non-governmental leadership is critical in the near term, strong coordination, aligned communication, and meaningful community engagement are essential to avoid fragmentation and to support a resilient, equitable public health ecosystem. Read more from Health Affairs here.