
Emerging Infectious Diseases in the Era of Limited Government Funding (2025 AC Live)
Includes a Live Web Event on 10/09/2025 at 4:15 PM (EDT)
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the key factors contributing to the emergence and re-emergence of infectious diseases and how limited government funding impacts public health infrastructure for surveillance and outbreak response.
- Analyze the challenges and consequences of reduced funding on the development, accessibility, and deployment of diagnostic tools, vaccines, and therapeutics for emerging infectious diseases.
- Develop strategic approaches for optimizing clinical and public health practices, including interdisciplinary collaboration and resource allocation, to effectively manage emerging infections despite financial constraints.
MarkAlain Déry, DO, MPH, FACOI (he/him/his)
Chief Innovation Officer
Access Health Louisiana
Dr. MarkAlain Déry is an infectious disease specialist and epidemiologist renowned for his humanitarian work and commitment to public health. As the founder of 102.3FM WHIV-LP, a community radio station in New Orleans dedicated to human rights and social justice, Dr. Déry has utilized media to advocate for health equity and raise awareness about critical health issues such as HIV/AIDS. His international humanitarian efforts are extensive, having been at the forefront of disaster response during events like Hurricane Katrina, the Haiti earthquake, the Ebola outbreak in West Africa, and being adjacent to the front lines at the beginning of the Ukraine war. These experiences underscore his dedication to providing medical care in some of the most challenging environments, often employing innovative means of transportation to reach remote areas.
In addition to his hands-on medical work, Dr. Déry serves as the Chief Innovation Officer and Medical Director at Access Health Louisiana, where he continues to lead initiatives to improve healthcare access and outcomes for marginalized communities. His passion for education and advocacy extends to his role as a board member of the American College of Osteopathic Internists (ACOI), where he contributes to shaping policies that enhance medical practice and patient care.
Dr. Déry's career is marked by a profound commitment to addressing health disparities, promoting justice through clinical practice and public engagement. His work exemplifies a holistic approach to healthcare that integrates medical expertise with a deep understanding of social determinants of health, making him a pivotal figure in both local and global health landscapes.
In his free time, Dr. Déry plays bass for several New Orleans bands and has made several award-winning recordings. His passion for music complements his professional life, allowing him to engage with the community creatively while promoting health awareness through events that merge music and advocacy.