Navigating Health Policy in an Uncertain Landscape

The policy landscape just shifted drastically- and the philanthropic sector is bracing for impact. Just one week after a pivotal general election, the Grantmakers in Health Annual Health Policy Exchange provided a timely forum for leaders from government, media, and philanthropy to grapple with the uncertainties that lie ahead. While much remains uncertain, what is clear is that forward-thinking organizations are already laying the groundwork to safeguard vulnerable communities and build resilient systems. 

Our insights from the exchange reveal five critical strategies for shaping health policy and philanthropic responses in the months ahead.

Protecting Public Institutions 

Public institutions, such as state and local health departments and the CDC, face mounting threats of defunding, delegitimization, and even dismantlement. Foundations have a critical role to play in defending these institutions, which are vital to ensuring equitable access to healthcare and public services. Advocacy efforts must focus on protecting their operational integrity and fostering public trust. 

Prioritizing Strategic Messaging 

Traditional communication channels are insufficient in today’s landscape of disinformation and mistrust. Beyond crafting impactful messages, funders and organizations must focus on who delivers these messages and where they are shared. Engaging trusted, credible voices within communities and leveraging modern platforms will be key to driving advocacy and countering disinformation. Messaging strategies must be proactive, resonant, and adaptable to different audiences. 

Leveraging Legal Advocacy 

Legal advocacy is a powerful, yet underutilized, tool for advancing health policy. As Dr. Michele Bratcher Goodwin emphasized, the courts have historically oscillated in their support for social justice, but we can’t walk away—engaging in legal processes is more critical than ever. Legal advocacy spans beyond litigation, encompassing diverse strategies to safeguard rights and promote systemic change. Failing to engage in this arena risks ceding critical ground. 

To Learn More About Legal Advocacy, Read Our Guide for Funders

 Expanding Focus Through Interconnectedness 

Healthcare policy does not exist in a silo. The growing prominence of housing as a top concern highlights the interconnected nature of healthcare and social determinants of health. Multi-issue advocacy agendas that address the root causes of health disparities—such as housing, education, and economic stability—are essential to fostering equity and improving overall well-being. Funders and nonprofits must adopt an interconnected issue approach to advocacy and program development. 

Amplifying Non-Grantmaking Resources 

Funders are uniquely positioned to bring diverse voices and perspectives together and amplify the work of organizations. Through convening power, platforms for knowledge-sharing, and public support for underrepresented initiatives, funders can catalyze change far beyond their grantmaking. These non-grantmaking resources are vital for promoting innovation, building coalitions, and sustaining advocacy efforts.  

The Road Ahead: Collaboration and Intentionality 

The challenges ahead demand more than traditional approaches. They require collaboration across sectors, breaking out of old paradigms, and commitment to centering the voices of those most affected by systemic inequities. This moment offers an opportunity to reimagine how we work, where we invest, and what we prioritize. By leaning into these insights, leveraging collective expertise, and taking intentional actions, the philanthropic sector can help lead the way in navigating this transformative era.