Opinion: Former CDC director: Two programs reportedly on the chopping block must be saved

The Trump administration reportedly plans to eliminate two essential CDC training programs, a decision that would weaken America’s public health defenses. The Public Health Associate Program (PHAP) and Laboratory Leadership Service (LLS) strengthen critical capabilities in local health departments and public health laboratories. Their elimination is shortsighted and risks public safety at a time when the nation’s ability to detect and contain health threats, including H5N1 avian influenza, is already strained. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has played a critical role protecting public health, but it does have important weaknesses that have contributed to costly and deadly failures. The programs reportedly slated for cuts address two challenges: 1) the gap between federal guidance and local action, and 2) problems in laboratory management, quality, and biosafety. 

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