Disrupting Healthcare: Solidarity, Collaboration, and Action

L to R: Dr. Robinson, Toni Newman Dr. Tessema

On June 18, 2025, I had the privilege of attending the Disrupt NOW National Healthcare Stakeholder Meeting, hosted by the National Organization for Women (NOW) at the beautiful Vital Voices Global Partnership space in Washington, DC. Special thanks to Toni Newman of NMAC for the invitation to join this powerful convening.

This wasn’t just another meeting—it was a call to action. Designed as a think tank-style dialogue, the event brought together a diverse group of healthcare professionals, coalition leaders, advocates, and disruptors who are doing critical work to reimagine what equitable, people-centered care can and should look like.

Throughout the afternoon, we explored what it means to disrupt with intention—centering collaboration, solidarity, and resilience as guiding principles. From coalition updates to small group brainstorms, the energy in the room was focused on moving beyond conversation into concrete action.

As we reflected on the powerful work already happening across the country, one thing was clear: the time to act is now. Our challenge—and opportunity—is to transform stakeholder dialogue into strategic, sustained movement. The ideas are here. The people are ready. The momentum is building.

Now, it’s on all of us to carry it forward.

Dr. Robinson & Dr. Tessema