Generosity and Health

Historically, religious organizations and charities oversaw the administration of hospitals and other medical facilities. Beginning in the Industrial era, most governments have played some part in funding and overseeing healthcare programs. While social welfare networks help ensure that low-income individuals have access to basic care, large gaps in coverage remain. Most modern healthcare systems, whether they specialize in general wellness or emergency medicine, rely on the consistent and generous support of donors and volunteers to ensure that patients receive the care they need. 

Many philanthropic initiatives seek to improve healthcare interventions and access. Some are primarily concerned with funding research into specific diseases or medical protocols, while others devote their resources to building hospitals and treatment centers. A number of organizations – notably the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation – have spearheaded wide-ranging initiatives aimed at eradicating infectious diseases in the Global South. 

Efforts to provide life-saving care in conflict areas rely heavily on medical volunteers. During the Crimean War, Florence Nightingale (1820-1910) revolutionized the treatment of wounded soldiers by improving hygiene and living conditions in military field hospitals. Over time, organizations such as the International Committee of the Red Cross and Doctors Without Borders have emerged to help ensure that both military personnel and civilians receive medical assistance in conflict areas. Surgeon Gino Strada (1948-2021), founder of the humanitarian NGO Emergency, dedicated his career to treating noncombatants wounded in wartime. 

Many humanitarian initiatives strive to provide medical and healthcare services to underserved populations. Groups such as Emergency and Safari Doctors have established dedicated health facilities in remote geographical areas. Founded by Abdul Sattar Edhi (1926-2016), the Edhi Foundation offers maternal care, ambulance services and other vital programs to people living in material poverty throughout Pakistan. 

Other healthcare advocates address issues that confront marginalized segments of society. At the onset of the AIDs crisis in the 1980s, the Horizons Foundation of San Francisco was instrumental in spearheading HIV-related medical research, while in Canada June Callwood (1924-2007) founded a groundbreaking   palliative care facility for people with AIDS. In the 21st century, pop icon Lady Gaga (1986-) has made youth mental health the focal point of her Born This Way Foundation.

Safeguarding the right to physical and mental health lies at the heart of a just and equitable world. Philanthropy and other forms of generosity can play crucial roles in improving health outcomes for all members of society.

Contributor: Stephen Meyer