Season 13 • Episode 1046

1046 - "The Service is the Message": A Conversation with New York's Commissioner of Health

May 6, 2026

18:43

Episode Description

About this episode:

Appointed by Mayor Zohran Mamdani earlier this year, Dr. Alister Martin is developing creative ways to make life healthier and more affordable for New Yorkers. In this episode: Dr. Martin shares how his office is meeting problems head on, finding innovative ways to connect with neighbors, and serving through a public health trust deficit.

Guest:

Dr. Alister F. Martin, MPP, is the Commissioner of the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. He is also an assistant professor at Harvard Medical School and the founder of A Healthier Democracy.

Host:

Dr. Josh Sharfstein is distinguished professor of the practice in Health Policy and Management, a pediatrician, and former secretary of Maryland's Health Department.

Show links and related content:

I'm New York City's new health commissioner. Here's how I'll help deliver on Zohran Mamdani's affordability agenda.—MSN
VoteER: Helping Patients and Providers Vote Like Their Health Depends On It—Public Health On Call (September 2021)

Transcript information:

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