Health

Aims: Health Team- 

We view our role as primarily as providers of evidence based, researched information regarding the intersection of health and public policy.   We believe that a well informed public is essential to the resistance  to poor government decision making.  Our team’s responsibility is to be alert to the movements of government as they impact health care.  We will bring such movements to the attention of the members of Indivisible ADK/ Saratoga.

1)      Resistance refers to a range of actions such as marches, strikes, and civil disobedience. It also refers to less visible acts. Perhaps more subtly, it refers to discourse and knowledge; how issues are thought or spoken about could be an act of resistance. While the concept of resistance is far from settled, it is a concept that has broad applications and has been applied to better understand a range of actions and struggles. Its relationship to health, however, has often been overlooked or taken for granted. This is despite resistance having an influential role in securing a number of important health related gains and pushing back against powers that would otherwise harm health. Resistance has also been triggered by concerns about health, or framed around issues related to health. The intersections of resistance and health, however, are far more complex. Resistance has challenged and shaped health related knowledge and practice, and health in itself has been used as an act of resistance.

2)      Public understanding of science is crucial for informed decision-making, promoting civic engagement, and fostering a scientifically literate populace. It enables individuals to critically evaluate information, participate in scientific discourse, and navigate a world increasingly shaped by scientific and technological advancements. Furthermore, supports the advancement of science itself by fostering public trust and support for research funding.

3)      Public understanding of how government policies impact healthcare is crucial for informed decision-making, community engagement, and holding policymakers accountable. A literate public can advocate for science-based policies, ensure policies address health issues effectively, and participate in shaping their health outcomes.

4)      Public understanding allows individuals to grasp the nuances of health policies, such as the Affordable Care Act or changes to Medicaid, and their potential consequences.

5)      A knowledgeable public can participate more effectively in discussions, debates, and advocacy efforts related to health policy