
Dr. Sanjana Bhardwaj
Dr. Sanjana Bhardwaj is a physician and public health expert with over 30 years of experience in the health and development sector. She is a deputy director at the Gates Foundation and leads the policy, advocacy, and communications work related to family planning, maternal, newborn and child health, women’s health innovations, and primary health care. Prior to the foundation, Sanjana led health, HIV, and nutrition portfolios for UNICEF in several countries; worked in academia designing and teaching public health programs; and led the implementation of innovative, development programs in the field.
Latest Articles

Opinion: Backing bold local leadership — a path to safer birth
6 months ago // Sponsored by Ferring
The withdrawal of development funding risks reversing progress in reducing maternal deaths. Dr. Sanjana Bhardwaj and Charlotte Ersbøll highlight how subnational and community leaders can help tackle the maternal health crisis.

Opinion: Together we must end the maternal and newborn health crisis
over 1 year ago // Sponsored by Ferring
Progress in preventing maternal deaths is stagnating, especially in humanitarian crisis settings. Dr. Petra Khoury, Dr. Sanjana Bhardwaj, and Dr. Kelle Moley uncover key actions and areas of collaboration needed to address the situation.