Dr. Raven Baxter speaks on panel to advise FDA on science communication strategy
Believe me, it is no small task to tackle challenges in the health communication sector, especially when it pertains to FDA-regulated products. But as a devoted advocate for science education and public health, I attended the Virtual Public Meeting held by the Reagan-Udall Foundation on October 5, 2023, and I am excited to share my insights.
What I found most gripping was the foundation’s efforts in researching, soliciting expert advice, and understanding how consumers and stakeholders perceive health information. The report, Strategies for Improving Public Understanding of FDA-Regulated Products, shed light on a range of observations and strategies for enhancing public comprehension of FDA-regulated products - a task that I hold close to my heart.
What really hit home during the meeting was the emphasis on the ripple effects of health misinformation. It's not just an FDA problem—it's an ecosystem-wide problem. And it's a problem that affects us all, from doctors and patients to caregivers and the public at large. We have to be advocates for accurate health information because the ramifications of misunderstanding can be severe, impacting our decisions and our health.
As someone passionate about public health literacy, I appreciated the chance to voice my perspective during the meeting, emphasizing the importance of two-way communication in the dissemination of accurate health information. It's wonderful that the FDA is open to partnering with external stakeholders to improve public understanding of regulated products. However, I stressed that true understanding will only result from a facilitated conversation between the FDA and the public. In other words, we need more than just information dissemination - we need a dialogue. This approach allows for the clarification of misconceptions, the answering of questions, and the nurturing of a more informed and health-literate public. As an advocate, I'm committed to fostering these exchanges and promoting improved health literacy across our society.
The session with Robert M. Califf, MD, Commissioner of Food and Drugs, struck a particular chord with me. His thoughts on facilitating public access to science-based information resonate deeply with my own mission. After all, our goal is to empower the public with the knowledge they need to make informed health decisions.
In conclusion, this meeting was a significant milestone in the journey to improve health communication. There's no magic bullet, but events like these move us towards a world where health information is understood, trusted, and used for the betterment of all. To the Reagan-Udall Foundation and all the stakeholders involved, I tip my science cap. Your commitment is inspiring.
Remember, we're all in this together. Let's continue to push for clarity and truth in health communication, because, in the end, it's about helping people live healthier, happier lives.
You can watch the entire panel here: