The article discusses the alarming public health crisis in New York City, highlighting significant increases in drug overdoses and mental health issues, and the burden placed on emergency healthcare services. Amid these challenges, it critiques the New York City Department of Health for reportedly focusing on studying the impacts of 'global oppression' rather than addressing pressing health concerns. This diversion of resources and attention illustrates a concerning trend of ideology overshadowing practical competence in public health management.

The author, Steve Forbes, argues that the principal objective of health departments should be to ensure public safety and protect citizens from diseases, not to delve into theoretical political discussions. He emphasizes that taxpayer money is being wasted on this ideological study, which he views as a fundamental failure of the department's leadership. The article suggests that hours invested in such studies distract from essential services like managing tuberculosis outbreaks and combating substance use disorders, thereby compromising the health of New Yorkers.

Forbes calls attention to the dire state of public health in the city, drawing attention to the factors of declining life expectancy and inadequate responses to health emergencies. By placing ideological concerns above the pressing needs of public health, the article contends that the NYC Health Department's actions pose a threat to the well-being of residents, highlighting a need for leaders who prioritize health and safety over ideological pursuits.