How does a specific event, such as increasing prevalence of AIDS, the 9/11 terrorist attacks, or the recent Ebola crisis, create change in public health policy?

A specific event, such as those noted above, can open a "window of opportunity" for policy changes or the development of new policies. These policies may stimulate increased research funding and access to needed health care services and treatment. An idea that once was seen as "premature" or "unacceptable" can suddenly, through a series of coincidental events, result in political reform in the public health structure.