Public Health in the Political Sphere: Zero-Fare Public Transportation as a Case Study and Call to Action

Health Education & Behavior 2026 Open access

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Authors: Jacob Carson, Jordan Carlson, Amanda R. Grimes, Jannette Berkley-Patton, Jenifer E. Allsworth, Tyler Prochnow, Heloant Abreu, Ricardo B Oliveira, Joseph S. Lightner
DOI: 10.1177/10901981261441283
Cited by: 1
References: 10

Abstract

Calls for depoliticizing public health often conflate politicization with partisanship, limiting the tools we have to advance health equity. We argue, through the lens of zero-fare public transit, that promoting health equity is an inherently political process. The processes that advance access to public services as a public good exist in the political sphere and have direct impacts on the health of vulnerable populations. To advance population health goals regarding the social determinants of health, engagement in the political sphere is necessary. We provide recommendations for the path forward regarding research, advocacy, and training to advance our field.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Global Public Health Policies and Epidemiology Public Health Policies and Education Health disparities and outcomes

Publication details

Journal / source
Health Education & Behavior
Publisher
SAGE Publications
Pages
10901981261441283–10901981261441283
Publication date
13 April 2026
Language
EN