Dr. Leana Wen: Physician, Author, and CNN Medical Expert
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Dr. Leana Wen, a renowned medical expert and emergency physician, is the guest on the Remarkable People podcast hosted by Guy Kawasaki. The podcast covers a wide range of topics, including personal experiences shaping one's life and career, concerns about children not experiencing hardships, finding community during challenging times, the importance of in-person schooling amidst COVID-19, and addressing disinformation and misinformation surrounding the COVID-19 vaccine.
Dr. Wen emphasizes the need for children to understand their privilege without feeling guilty and suggests seeking out a community that can help during times of adjustment. She discusses the importance of in-person schooling for children's development while acknowledging the negative impact of prolonged remote learning. Dr. Wen advocates for a layered approach to COVID-19 safety in schools, including vaccination, testing, and indoor masking.
Regarding disinformation and misinformation surrounding the COVID-19 vaccine, Dr. Wen acknowledges rare adverse effects but highlights how these incidents can be exaggerated and fuel conspiracy theories. She also emphasizes that public health encompasses various aspects of our lives, including access to clean air, housing, and nutritious food.
Dr. Wen discusses the complexity of making decisions in a government role when faced with policies that go against scientific evidence and personal beliefs. She shares her personal philosophy of not doing anything unethical or illegal and not going against scientific truth.
In closing, Dr. Wen suggests de-emphasizing COVID-19 and focusing on funding public health infrastructure across the country. She believes that bolstering all aspects of public health will strengthen local connections and build trust in public health officials for future pandemics.
Dr. Leana Wen, a renowned medical expert and emergency physician, is the guest on the Remarkable Peo