Raj Panjabi

A medical innovator who revolutionized healthcare access in remote regions through Last Mile Health

Raj Panjabi is a physician and social entrepreneur who has made a profound difference in global health equity through her work with Last Mile Health. Born in Freetown, Sierra Leone, Panjabi moved to the United States at age 16 and later became a doctor. She returned to her home country during the Ebola crisis, witnessing the systemic gaps in healthcare delivery in rural areas. In 2011, she co-founded Last Mile Health, an organization that trains and deploys community health workers to provide essential medical services in underserved regions. This model has been replicated globally, improving maternal health, reducing child mortality, and expanding access to HIV/AIDS treatment. Panjabi’s approach emphasizes partnership with governments and local communities, ensuring sustainable solutions. In 2019, she was named a MacArthur Fellow for her transformative work. Her vision of 'no one left behind' has influenced global health policies, including the World Health Organization’s Universal Health Coverage agenda. Panjabi’s TED Talk, A Doctor’s Mission to Ensure Healthcare for All, highlights her commitment to bridging the last mile between patients and care.