The Unhealthy Effects of Partisan Polarization on American Health: A Special Issue from Journal of Health Politics, Policy and Law Edited by Jonathan Oberlander

Jonathan Oberlander, a Professor of Social Medicine and Health Policy & Management, has edited a new special issue in the Journal of Health Politics, Policy and Law. This issue focuses on Polarization, Partisanship, and Health in the United States. The lead essay is authored by Oberlander and provides an insightful analysis into how partisan divisions are reshaping U.S health politics.

In his essay, Oberlander argues that the deep partisan polarization between Democrats and Republicans is having significant effects on Americans’ health behaviors, attitudes about public health, and U.S health care policy. He presents evidence on how this polarization has impacted a wide range of issues and policies including the Affordable Care Act, state health policies, vaccination attitudes, and public health agencies. Ultimately, he concludes that in a deeply polarized America, the health of the polity and the country as a whole is at risk.

Oberlander’s work highlights the importance of understanding how political polarization influences health policy decisions and public health outcomes. By bringing together experts from different disciplines this special issue sheds light on the complex relationship between partisanship and health in the United States. This research contributes to a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities for improving public health in a politically divided nation.