Michele Heisler

Dr. Michele Heisler is well-known for her work in advancing health equity and human rights, particularly through innovative peer support models and human rights initiatives. As a Professor at the University of Michigan Medical School and School of Public Health, Dr. Heisler has dedicated her career to addressing health disparities and promoting sustainable health improvements. Her research, which has been supported by over $45 million in federal grants, has provided substantial evidence of the effectiveness of peer support in achieving long-term health benefits. Dr. Heisler's work extends beyond traditional healthcare settings, as she has gained recognition for her efforts in documenting the health consequences of human rights violations. Her research in this area has been instrumental in highlighting the critical intersections between health and human rights, and she has been a strong advocate for medical-legal partnerships as a means to prevent violence and discrimination. These partnerships have proven to be effective in addressing the social determinants of health and ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the support they need. In her role as Medical Director of Physicians for Human Rights, Dr. Heisler plays a pivotal role in strengthening research, documentation, and partnerships to promote health and human rights on a global scale. Her leadership in this organization has been marked by a commitment to evidence-based advocacy and a focus on building collaborative networks that can drive meaningful change. Dr. Heisler's research interests are diverse and encompass a wide range of topics related to human rights and health equity. She is particularly interested in the implementation of pragmatic trials that can provide real-world evidence of the effectiveness of interventions designed to address health disparities. Her work in this area has been characterized by a commitment to rigorous scientific inquiry and a focus on translating research findings into actionable policy recommendations. Throughout her career, Dr. Heisler has been a passionate advocate for the integration of human rights principles into healthcare practice. She believes that addressing the root causes of health disparities requires a comprehensive approach that includes both medical and legal interventions. Her work has been instrumental in shaping the field of health and human rights, and she continues to be a leading voice in efforts to promote equity and justice in healthcare. Dr. Heisler's contributions to the field have been recognized through numerous awards and honors, reflecting her impact as a researcher, educator, and advocate. Her work continues to inspire new generations of healthcare professionals and researchers who are committed to advancing health equity and human rights.