Tom Cotter from Healthcare Ready joins the podcast to discuss  the impact of disasters on vulnerable communities. Tom brings a combination of professional expertise and humanitarian insight to the conversation. We delve into the complex interplay of social and economic factors that make certain populations more vulnerable to emergencies, drawing upon his experiences and academic research, including his time in Manila and his long-ago encounter with Dr. Paul Farmer.

The episode explores the evolution of Healthcare Ready, an organization formed in the wake of Hurricane Katrina and further developed during the COVID-19 pandemic. We examine how Healthcare Ready has effectively utilized public-private partnerships to create equitable health solutions in crisis situations. 

We discuss the response to the recent Maui wildfire, illustrating successful collaboration between non-governmental organizations and the importance of pooling resources and knowledge for community benefit.

Host David E. Williams is president of healthcare strategy consulting firm Health Business Group. Produced by Dafna Williams.