Leveraging Meaningful Research in Public Health Initiatives - Prospective Doctor Podcast

In this episode, Dr. Erkeda DeRouen welcomes Dr. Marissa Robinson to discuss how individuals from all walks of life can meaningfully contribute to public health—particularly in the fight to end the HIV epidemic.

Dr. Robinson shares her journey as a public health advocate and researcher, highlighting her dissertation, which focused on Black women’s attitudes toward pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Though PrEP is 99% effective at preventing HIV transmission, its uptake among Black women remains disproportionately low. Through her qualitative research, Dr. Robinson uncovered critical barriers rooted in stigma, access, and cultural disconnects in healthcare messaging.

She emphasizes the need to center Black women in HIV prevention efforts, noting that these women are often excluded from outreach and conversations despite being disproportionately affected. Destigmatizing HIV and creating culturally relevant messaging are key steps toward improving prevention and care outcomes.

Dr. Robinson also encourages future health professionals to explore diverse paths in public health. While clinical medicine is one route, impactful work can also be found in policy, education, communications, and community engagement. Each individual has a unique role to play, and leveraging one’s personal strengths and interests can drive real, sustainable change in public health.