Expertise
Health equity, public health policy, behavioral health, and wellnessEducation
Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU)Highlights
Has dedicated her career to addressing health disparities and advancing health equity
Holds a BSc in public health with a minor concentration in behavioral and political science from PVAMU
Former editorial intern at GoodRx, focusing on personal finance and insurance
Health equity is more than just a buzzword. It’s a call to action to dismantle the systemic barriers that leave millions with inadequate access to essential healthcare and preventive services. Everyone has a role to play. For me, empowering individuals through accessible health information and advocacy for comprehensive solutions to health disparities is at the heart of my professional ethos.
— Imani S. Austin
Experience
Imani S. Austin's professional journey was deeply influenced by growing up in Chicago, a city characterized by significant health disparities that have been shaped by segregation and other systemic inequalities. Her career began with a communications internship in Pfizer’s vaccines business unit, which was followed by a pivotal role at the CDC Foundation, where she contributed to essential COVID-19 public health initiatives. Her experience deepened at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois, where she learned how a private health insurance company administering government programs impacted access to care.
In January 2024, Imani joined GoodRx as an editorial intern, focusing on personal finance and insurance — topics that align closely with her academic background and her passion for making healthcare more accessible and equitable. This role enabled her to leverage her insights into systemic barriers affecting health equity, such as insurance gaps and healthcare affordability.
As she prepares to transition to a position with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Imani remains dedicated to using her voice and skills to contribute to meaningful changes in health policy and communications, with the ultimate goal of closing the health equity gap.
Education
Imani S. Austin received her academic foundation at Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU), earning a Bachelor of Science degree in public health, with a minor in behavioral and political science. This educational journey was not just about acquiring knowledge; it was also a step toward fulfilling her deeply rooted passion for addressing health equity and systemic disparities.
While at PVAMU, she delved into research and projects that underscored her commitment to public health. One notable project involved an in-depth exploration of redlining in Chicago and the historical and ongoing impact of segregation on health disparities. This academic pursuit was complemented by her participation in various internships and roles that bridged her classroom learning with real-world public health challenges.
