Public health and social justice are inextricably connected. When we find ourselves facing injustice, we must act—it is our duty to take care of our most vulnerable. As always, we will work to ensure that a public health lens is applied to laws that could have a major impact on the daily lives of thousands of residents in Baltimore.

In my experience as an emergency physician and Baltimore’s doctor, I have seen too many patients suffer from terrible health ailments because they did not have access to healthcare, could not take off of work to heal, or were unable to afford their life-saving medications. The reasons for their suffering are treatable or preventable by changing unjust policies.

This week, I testified in front of our elected leaders in Annapolis in support of two bills that will help more people access their prescriptions drugs at affordable prices. Ensuring that life-saving prescription drugs remain accessible and affordable is key to promoting the health, wellness, and security of families and communities. We cannot have an honest discussion about curtailing healthcare costs without looking at the drastic increases in some of the most commonly prescribed medications, including the opioid overdose reversal medication, naloxone. In a time of a public health crisis, it is unconscionable that we are priced out of saving lives.

Health is a basic human right and a matter of social justice.

It is every person’s duty to serve the most vulnerable, including those who look different, speak a different language, or practice a different religion from us. Earlier this week, I shared my personal story highlighting the kindness of the many strangers who helped me and my family survive at City of Immigrants: A Night of Support, an event hosted by David Simon to urge inclusivity and solidarity in Baltimore and across the country.   

Now is the time to stand up to injustice to help others achieve a better, safer, and healthier life. 

Sincerely,

Leana Wen, M.D., M.Sc.