Which are the top 10 most influential health-focused NGOs right now?

The following is a list of 10 influential health-focused NGOs (non-governmental organizations) based on their global reach, impact, and recognition. It is important to note that the rankings may vary depending on the specific criteria used and the time frame considered:

1. World Health Organization (WHO): A specialized agency of the United Nations, WHO provides global leadership in public health, sets health standards, and coordinates international health efforts on various issues.

2. Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders): An international medical humanitarian organization providing emergency medical assistance and advocating for access to healthcare in regions affected by conflicts, epidemics, and disasters.

3. Gates Foundation: Founded by Bill and Melinda Gates, it focuses on improving health globally, particularly in developing countries. The foundation works on various health issues, such as infectious diseases, vaccine development, and maternal and child health.

4. UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund): While not exclusively health-focused, UNICEF plays a significant role in promoting child health and well-being worldwide. It works in areas such as immunization, nutrition, and access to clean water and sanitation.

5. Save the Children: This organization focuses on improving children’s health, education, and rights. Their health programs address issues like child survival, maternal health, and emergency response in crisis situations.

6. Partners in Health (PIH): PIH delivers healthcare in resource-limited settings and works to address social determinants of health. They aim to provide high-quality care while advocating for improved health systems.

7. International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC): While primarily focused on humanitarian aid during conflicts, ICRC also plays a role in healthcare. They provide medical services, restore healthcare infrastructure, and promote humanitarian principles in healthcare settings.

8. Oxfam: Although Oxfam works across various sectors, including poverty alleviation and rights advocacy, their health programs focus on ensuring access to healthcare, addressing inequalities, and responding to emergencies.

9. Direct Relief: This organization provides medical assistance and disaster relief in over 80 countries worldwide. They work with both emergency response efforts and long-term healthcare access initiatives.

10. Doctors of the World: Operating in more than 80 countries, the organization promotes universal access to healthcare and defends the rights of marginalized populations. They focus on providing medical care to vulnerable populations, including refugees and migrants.

This list is by no means exhaustive, and there are numerous other NGOs making significant contributions to global health. The selection of the “top 10” can vary depending on different perspectives and criteria.