In this episode of A Shot in the Arm Podcast, hosts Yvette Raphael and Ben Plumley discuss the resilience of South Africa's healthcare system amidst U.S. aid cuts, particularly through USAID and PEPFAR. They highlight the devastating impacts on HIV treatment, TB care, and broader healthcare services due to the sudden cessation of funding. But the country is markedly more prepared than critics might have feared, to assume full responsibility for its infectious diseases strategies - including procurement and surveillance strategies that the US maintained control over in exchange for the aid. Their conversation extends to cover issues around mental health, future healthcare innovations like long-acting antiretrovirals, and the broader geopolitical implications of donor aid cuts.

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene

00:33 Impact of US Aid Cuts on South Africa

03:08 Healthcare Challenges and Government Response

07:04 The Role of Civil Society and Future Preparations

10:21 Consequences of Sudden Aid Withdrawal

14:17 Future of HIV Treatment and Advocacy

16:55 The Threat of Drug-Resistant TB

17:35 Government Investment in Healthcare

19:01 Mental Health Crisis Among Youth

19:41 Impact of USAID Funding Cuts

20:57 Soft Power and International Relations

22:37 South Africa's Self-Reliance

26:43 Addressing Racism and Emigration

32:42 Parting Thoughts and Optimism

💬 Join the Conversation

How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments!

🔔 Subscribe & Stay Updated

✅ Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform

✅ Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health discussions -  @shotarmpodcast⁩