Dr. Ingrid T. Katz has emerged as a pivotal figure in advancing global health, particularly in the realm of HIV/AIDS care. Her journey began in 2008 during her first project with the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa. Katz, an infectious disease physician and public health researcher, worked within a Soweto hospital’s perinatal HIV research unit. At that time, the impact of HIV/AIDS in South Africa was devastating, yet the introduction of antiretroviral medications through the United States President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) marked a significant turning point.
Despite the availability of effective treatment, a troubling statistic emerged: 20% of individuals clinically diagnosed with AIDS did not initiate therapy. Many individuals waited until they were critically ill before seeking help, raising a poignant question for Katz: Why were those in need not accessing the care available to them? Through her research, she quickly realized that the existing healthcare system failed to meet the diverse needs of all patients.
Over the past 15 years, Katz has collaborated with both the University of the Witwatersrand and the University of Cape Town to explore innovative care delivery models for vulnerable populations living with HIV. Their findings suggest that when individuals receive HIV care in community settings, facilitated by peers, they experience improved health outcomes. This approach addresses the significant stigma often associated with HIV/AIDS, which can serve as a barrier to accessing traditional healthcare systems.
Leadership in Global Health Transformation
In early 2026, Katz took on the role of director at the Yale Institute for Global Health (YIGH) and serves as chief of evidence and program innovation at the Bureau of Global Health Security and Diplomacy within the U.S. Department of State. Her leadership comes at a critical juncture in global health, characterized by shifting funding landscapes and evolving programmatic support.
In a recent interview, Katz shared her vision for the future of global health, emphasizing the urgency of adapting to changing circumstances. She expressed her hope that YIGH could be a catalyst for innovative solutions that cater to the needs of diverse populations.
Katz’s perspective is particularly relevant as global health funding faces challenges. She believes that understanding the local context and engaging community members is essential for effective health interventions. “We need to ensure that our strategies are not only scientifically sound but also resonate with the communities we aim to serve,” she stated.
Katz’s ongoing research and leadership are set against a backdrop of evolving global health priorities. As she navigates these changes, her work promises to influence how healthcare systems can better serve marginalized populations, particularly in the context of HIV/AIDS.
The path forward in global health is undoubtedly complex, but with leaders like Katz at the forefront, there is a renewed sense of optimism. Her commitment to addressing systemic barriers and fostering community-driven care is crucial in shaping a more equitable health landscape for all.
