New Voices From the Field Podcast: Sharing to Survive: Building Resilient Health Communication Research Networks through AI-Powered Collaboration
Recorded during the 2025 National Conference on Health Communication, Marketing, and Media (NCHCMM) in Atlanta, NPHIC’s Public Health Speaks podcast continues its Voices from the Field series with a new episode, Sharing to Survive: Building Resilient Health Communication Research Networks through AI-Powered Collaboration.
In this conversation, Dr. Kristen Swain, Ph.D., Associate Profes…
Journalism, Media, and Technology Trends and Predictions for 2026
For public health communicators, the ways audiences access and trust information are shifting faster than ever, driven by generative AI and the rise of personality-led news. A 2026 global survey of media leaders highlights declining engagement with traditional journalism, especially among younger audiences who prefer platforms, influencers, and AI-powered “answer engines.”
Publishers anticipa…
Exercise is as Effective as Medication in Treating Depression, Study Finds
A new Cochrane review of 73 randomized controlled trials involving 5,000 people finds that exercise—ranging from light walking to moderate activity—can be as effective as medication or therapy in reducing depressive symptoms. Exercise boosts neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins, and supports brain neuroplasticity through increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)…
OpenAI Launches ChatGPT Health in a Push to Become a Hub for Personal Health Data
OpenAI has launched ChatGPT Health, a dedicated platform allowing users to securely connect medical records and wellness apps to personalize health conversations. Designed to enhance patient engagement and decision-making, the tool flags potential medication risks by integrating user data without training its AI on personal medical information.
Early examples highlight its potential to help patients navigate complex care systems. While initially available to a limited group, OpenAI plans broader rollout on web and iOS. ChatGPT Health incorporates layered protections, multi-factor authenti…
A State of Crisis’: record number of Americans are pessimistic about US healthcare system
A record share of Americans view the U.S. healthcare system as deeply troubled, with 23% describing it as “in a state of crisis” and nearly half citing major problems, according to new West Health–Gallup polling. Rising healthcare costs emerged as the most urgent concern, closely tied to worsening access and affordability.
Experts note that unpredictable expenses, an aging population, and inflation are driving financial strain that leads many to delay or skip care. Mental health access remains a particular challenge, with cost barriers creating a feedback loop between poor mental health a…