The Trump administration’s first 100 days saw significant changes in health policy, led by the Department of Government Efficiency. Various agencies were closed, and budgets were cut in areas such as foreign aid, scientific research, and food safety. The implications of these actions on public health in the U.S. and globally are a cause for concern.

To delve deeper into this issue, global health correspondent Gabrielle Emmanuel and health policy reporter Selena Simmons-Duffin provide insight into the specific cuts made to science and health departments, the importance of these areas, and the potential future consequences. Understanding the impact of these policy decisions is crucial for grasping the broader implications for society.

For those interested in learning more about how policy changes affect scientific research and discovery, feedback can be shared by emailing shortwave@npr.org. The podcast “Short Wave” is available on platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. Listeners can access sponsor-free episodes and support NPR’s work by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave.

This informative episode was produced by Hannah Chinn, edited by Rebecca Ramirez, fact-checked by Tyler Jones, and engineered by Maggie Luthar. The collaboration of experts in the field sheds light on the evolving landscape of health policy under the current administration.