Vikram Patel, a renowned expert in global mental health and the Pershing Square Professor of Global Health at Harvard Medical School’s Blavatnik Institute, has been appointed as the next chair of the HMS Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, effective from September 1, 2023. Patel will succeed Paul Farmer, who led the department until his passing in February 2022.
George Q. Daley, the dean of HMS, expressed confidence in Patel’s ability to carry forward the department’s mission and praised his alignment with Paul Farmer’s philosophy of using academic engagement to deliver equitable healthcare. Patel himself expressed deep honor and acknowledged the responsibility of following in the footsteps of influential scholars in global health and social medicine. He recognized the potential of the role, particularly during a critical time when the world is increasingly aware of the mental health crisis.
Daley highlighted Patel’s dedication to integrating social sciences research into care delivery and emphasized that his expertise in mental health complements the strengths of the HMS community in neuroscience and neurobiology. Anne Becker, the dean for clinical and academic affairs at HMS, expressed delight in Patel’s appointment, noting his intellectual energy and team-building skills.
Patel has made significant contributions to global mental health, serving on advisory committees for the World Health Organization and leading Lancet commissions on the topic. Locally, he leads the Global Mental Health initiative at Harvard and heads the Mental Health for All Lab within the Department of Global Health and Social Medicine. His work includes initiatives like the EMPOWER program, which utilizes digital tools to equip frontline health workers with psychosocial interventions for mental health issues in their communities.
The appointment of Patel as chair reflects the continuity of Paul Farmer’s vision and the department’s historic emphasis on global mental health. Allan Brandt, who served as interim chair following Paul Farmer’s passing, expressed excitement about Patel’s leadership and described him as an exceptional researcher and advocate for the department’s values and vision.
Patel looks forward to collaborating with his esteemed colleagues to expand the department’s presence in critical areas of global health equity, promote interdisciplinary scholarship, and strengthen partnerships with faculty and students across the University who share their mission.
