Health Issues / Public News Service

About 40% of Community Health Centers are in rural areas, and about 90% of patients have incomes under 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. (Muhammad/Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, December 4, 2024

MI health centers fight for critical funding on Capitol Hill

Nearly 300 representatives of Community Health Centers from across the nation, including Michigan, are making their voices heard on Capitol Hill…

Ohio Medicaid recipients are encouraged to update their contact information to avoid losing coverage, as recent changes may require recipients to renew or transition to Marketplace plans. (syahrir/Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, December 4, 2024

Free, unbiased health insurance help available for Ohioans

Ohioans have until Jan. 15 to sign up for health insurance coverage during the open enrollment period. Programs like Get Covered Ohio are available …

In 2023, the highest-cost 10 drugs comprised about one-third of the total disbursements within the 340B Drug Pricing Program. (Azee Jacobs/Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, December 4, 2024

TN health centers voice concerns about future of low-cost drug program

Access to reduced-price medication is vital for many low-income rural Tennesseans and the clinics serving them are concerned about potential cuts to a…

According to a study of North Carolina oral health, a routine dental appointment in Charlotte might involve a short 15-minute drive and a brief wait. But in Tyrrell County, patients often face more than an hour of travel each way. (Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, December 4, 2024

Bridging the gap: NC foundation tackles dental care crisis

More than half of North Carolina counties have fewer than four dentists per 10,000 people and a few counties have no dentists at all. The North …

It is important to share your feelings of grief with loved ones and to seek out a mental health professional for support with persistent symptoms of depression. (pressmaster/Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, December 4, 2024

Blue, blue Christmas: Coping with holiday grief, loss

'Tis the season for celebration and good cheer. However, for many Oregonians, the absence of a loved one -- whether through death, divorce or another …

A new report found 97% of New York hospitals face a shortage of nurses while 88% report a shortage of non-nursing workers. (Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, December 4, 2024

Report: Operating margins at NYS hospitals affect patient care

A new report found New York hospitals are in a precarious financial state. The New York State Hospitals Fiscal Survey Report showed statewide …

The unpaid care provided by more than 580,000 Wisconsin caregivers is valued at $9.2 billion, according to AARP. (Adobe Stock) <br /><br />

Wednesday, December 4, 2024

More support needed for over half-million WI family caregivers

More than 580,000 Wisconsinites are unpaid family caregivers and they serve as the backbone of the state's long-term care system, and one …

According to an EPA report, locations tested across the country had more than one PFAS chemical in their drinking water. (samopauser/Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, December 4, 2024

TX Sierra Club warns about possible changes to water standards

The most current study from the Environmental Protection Agency estimated more than 143 million Americans are at risk of drinking water tainted with P…

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the wastewater viral activity level for COVID-19 is currently high in Arkansas. (Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, December 3, 2024

New relief for Arkansans suffering from long COVID

The aftermath of COVID-19 infections has left many with unexplainable fatigue or memory loss. A new study revealed a prescription drug used for …

In 2023, nearly $30,000 of the Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence's $3 million revenue came from donations, with 90 cents of every dollar allocated to survivor services. (ckybe/Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, December 3, 2024

Sustaining services for rural Ohio's sexual-violence survivors

The giving season offers Ohioans an opportunity to reflect on the importance of supporting community services. For survivors of sexual violence in …

The Bipartisan Primary Care and Health Workforce Act, Senate Bill 2840, passed by the Senate Health Committee last year, includes a $3 billion fund for health center construction, prioritizing dental and behavioral health facilities. (SaroStock/Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, December 3, 2024

Health advocates rallying in D.C. for critical funding

Pennsylvania health care advocates are in Washington, D.C. today and Wednesday to urge Congress to extend federal funding for Community Health …

Community Health Centers across the United States serve 3.8 million patients age 65 and older as well as 9.4 million children, according to The National Association of Community Health Centers. (Nadzeya/Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, December 3, 2024

SD rep joins 300 in D.C. calling for more rural health center funding

Nearly 300 Community Health Center leaders from across the U.S. and South Dakota are on Capitol Hill today, urging Congress to act before their …

According to 2021 data, Nebraska was home to more than 1,700 concentrated animal feeding operations. (Freepik)

Tuesday, December 3, 2024

As candidates are sworn in, some will be reminded of factory farm health impacts

When newly elected candidates take office next month, they will hear from a range of constituents and special interest groups about a wide range of …

Medical site Medline Plus indicates Metformin helps people with diabetes control the amount of sugar (or glucose) in their blood. It decreases the amount of glucose absorbed from food and increases the body's response to insulin. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, December 2, 2024

Diabetes drug could help IN residents ease COVID symptoms

The aftermath of COVID-19 infections has left many with unexplainable fatigue or memory loss. A new study reveals a prescription used for another …

Ballot measures to ensure access to abortion won in the 2024 election in red states like Arizona, Missouri and Montana. (tilialucida/Adobe Stock)

Monday, December 2, 2024

Pro-choice wins in election signal promise for potential ID initiative

Voters across the country approved a majority of measures in November to affirm abortion rights and supporters of an initiative to legalize abortion i…

In the U.S., outdoor air pollution is responsible for about one in 10 lung cancer cases. <br />(rusty elliott/Adobe Stock)

Monday, December 2, 2024

Wayne State study links head, neck cancers to air pollution

Exposure to air pollution is a growing concern for public health and a breakthrough study from Wayne State University is shedding new light on its lin…

The CDC's Rural Public Health Strategic Plan is designed to bring parity between rural and urban health care across the country. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, December 2, 2024

CDC develops five-year plan to improve health of rural Americans

By Liz Carey for The Daily Yonder.Broadcast version by Mark Richardson for Michigan News Connection for the Daily Yonder-Public News Service Collabora…

In 2023, 1.3 million people around the world newly acquired HIV, more than three times higher than the global target set for 2025 of no more than 370,000. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, December 2, 2024

Colorado commemorates World AIDS Day

Coloradans gathered at Park Hill United Methodist Church in Denver on Sunday to mark World AIDS Day - joining people around the globe to show support …

When South Dakota voters passed Medicaid expansion in 2022, the constitutional amendment included this language:

Monday, December 2, 2024

A long road for Medicaid work requirements in South Dakota

South Dakotans passed Amendment F on Election Day, opening the door to impose work requirements on people who qualify for expanded Medicaid benefits…

By 2022, eight out of 10 people living with HIV in Wisconsin were virally suppressed and unable to transmit the virus, according to the Wisconsin Dept. of Human Services. (Adobe Stock) <br /><br />

Monday, December 2, 2024

World AIDS Day sheds light on prevalence in Wisconsin

This weekend, people around the world united for World AIDS Day - to show support for those living with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. In …

Jobs in community and social services fields are expected to grow by nearly 8% over the next 10 years, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (Adobe Stock)<br />

Monday, December 2, 2024

Continuing education opportunities for KY’s social and health workers

Medicaid renewals and steps the state is taking to improve maternal health are all topics experts will cover at the upcoming Kentucky Voices for Healt…

The first World AIDS Day took place in 1988, providing a platform to raise awareness about HIV and AIDS and honor the lives affected by the epidemic. (Adobe Stock)

World AIDS Day: Looking back at public-health and moral crisis

World AIDS Day is Dec. 1, dedicated to raising awareness of the AIDS pandemic caused by the spread of HIV. Thousands of people live with H-I-V/Aids …

Data show firearms were the leading cause of death among children and teens ages 1-17 in 2022. (Adobe Stock)

Alabama leaders unite to address gun violence, reimagine community safety

Gun violence has long been a pressing issue in Alabama, and the recent tragic shooting at Tuskegee University has reignited urgent calls for action…

Rural young people returning to their communities from out-of-home placements may face unique barriers to successful reentry, and rural reentry service providers may face challenges in meeting their needs, according to the National Reentry Resource Center. (Adobe Stock)

In New Year, Medicaid will cover WV youths transitioning out of incarceration

Changes in federal law will permit West Virginia and other states to use Medicaid dollars to pay for health care services for incarcerated youths begi…

The Tennessee Department Mental Health Services provides a wide range of resources and programs for people of all ages who are managing mental illness or significant emotional challenges. (vejaa/Adobe Stock)

Support for Tennesseans facing grief, loss during holiday season

'Tis the season for celebration and good cheer. However, for many Tennesseans, the absence of a loved one, whether through death, divorce or another …

A cap on out-of-pocket drug costs will likely decrease health care costs for many people on Medicare. (Rawpixel.com/Adobe Stock)

Medicare changes in 2025 to benefit Oregonians

Changes coming to Medicare in 2025 could be beneficial for Oregon residents who are eligible for the program. Oregonians who qualify for Medicare …

Seasonal Affective Disorder increases as daylight decreases and winter weather sets in. (photogeek/Adobe Stock)<br />

Grief can be more painful during holiday season

'Tis the season for celebration and good cheer. However, for many Idahoans, the absence of a loved one, whether through death, divorce or another …

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention awarded $6.29 million to health departments and community-based organizations in Nevada for HIV prevention and care activities. (Adobe Stock)

World AIDS Day puts focus on perception

World AIDS Day is Dec. 1, which is dedicated to raising awareness of the AIDS pandemic caused by the spread of HIV. Thousands of people live with …

Yale Medicine suggested limiting caffeine intake and avoiding nicotine and alcohol near bedtime as treatments of long COVID symptoms. (Adobe Stock)

Studies show diabetes medicine may help with COVID aftereffects

COVID-19 cases do not make news headlines much anymore but many people who experienced it can have persistent symptoms long after the infection…

Some 75% of LGBTQ+ youth in South Dakota in 2022 reported experiencing anxiety, according to The Trevor Project. (Adobe Stock)

Calls to LGBTQ+ helpline surge following Election Day

Members of the LGBTQ+ community in South Dakota are concerned about what a second Trump presidency could mean for their safety, rights and …

The number of people diagnosed with Stage 3 HIV/AIDS rose to 636 in 2023, up from 511 in 2021. Experts believe pandemic-related delays in health care might have played a role. (Adobe Stock)

World AIDS Day highlights progress, challenges in fighting HIV in NC

World AIDS Day is Dec. 1, a time to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and the progress made in fighting it. Here in North Carolina, more than 37,000 …

The U.S. Supreme Court hears on average 80 cases per session, out of the thousands of requests it receives. (Adobe Stock)

U.S. Supreme Court ponders review of WI gender-identity case

The U.S. Supreme Court is deciding whether to review a Wisconsin case over the issue of gender identity at school. The case Parents Protecting Our …

U.S. counties with state minimum wages between $7.26 and $9 saw a reduction in obesity by 0.6 percentage points, while counties with minimum wages of more than $9 experienced an obesity reduction of 2.8 percentage points, according to a new study from Johns Hopkins University. (Adobe Stock)

Colorado obesity rate linked to economic inequality, low minimum wages

More than one in five Coloradans are considered obese, a chronic medical condition leading to serious health risks and a new study links obesity to …

Pennsylvania's uninsured rate rose from 4.3% to 5.3% for Black children, from 4.9% to 6% for Hispanic/Latino children, and from 6% to 9.4% for those identifying as some other race, according to a new report from Pennsylvania Partnerships for Children. (Rawpixel.com/Adobe Stock)

Report: Number of PA uninsured children stable, but no progress

Tens of thousands of children in Pennsylvania are still missing out on essential health care coverage, according to a new report. The "State of …

According to the Great Plains Tribal Epidemiology Center, one in 40 Native American and Alaska Native babies born in the Great Plains region in 2022 had a syphilis infection. (Adobe Stock)

Tribal leaders call syphilis outbreak 'public health emergency'

By Jazmin Orozco Rodriguez for KFF Health News.Broadcast version by Kathleen Shannon for Greater Dakota News Service reporting for the KFF Health News…

Roughly 5% of adults in the U.S. experience Seasonal Affective Disorder, according to the American Psychiatric Association, and symptoms last about 40% of the year. (Adobe Stock)

Psychiatrist: Don't ignore grief of loss during holidays

The holiday season often brings Wyoming families together in celebration and warmth but for some, the absence of a loved one -- whether through death…

Whooping cough is a common, contagious respiratory illness with frequent outbreaks in various settings such as schools, hospitals and large geographic areas, peaking every few years. (Louis-Photo/Adobe Stock)

Whooping cough cases rise in Tennessee, nationwide

Whooping cough, or pertussis, is making a comeback and a Tennessee medical expert stressed the preventable, highly contagious bacterial infection …

The UMB program is self-paced and includes a two-day in-person simulation training. (Adobe Stock / AI)

Maryland trains more health workers to offer abortion care

By Sarah Varney for KFF Health News.Broadcast version by Brett Peveto for Maryland News Connection reporting for the KFF Health News-Public News Servi…

Milk is the only food that makes up an entire food group. (magdal3na/Adobe Stock)

Activist: Dairy may not be best way to get your calcium

By Seth Millstein for Sentient.Broadcast version by Freda Ross for Texas News Service reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Collaboration Wh…

On the day after the Nov. 5th election, Planned Parenthood health centers nationwide reported a 1200% increase in scheduled vasectomy appointments and a 350% increase in birth control implant appointments. (Adobe Stock) <br />

New England clinics see post-election spike in contraceptive requests

Health clinics in New England and elsewhere are coping with a sharp uptick in requests for long-acting contraceptives in the wake of the election…

In August, the Colorado Department of Education updated guidelines reflecting evidence-based best practices on how returning to school and exercise can improve recovery. (Adobe Stock)

Tips for helping kids recover from concussions

By Kate Ruder for KFF Health News.Broadcast version by Eric Galatas for Colorado News Connection reporting for the KFF Health News-Public News Service…

Following the Nov. 5th election, Planned Parenthood health centers nationwide reported a 760% increase in IUD appointments scheduled and a 350% increase in birth control implant appointments. (Adobe Stock)

Post-election contraceptive requests increase at ME clinics

Health clinics in Maine and elsewhere are coping with a sharp uptick in requests for long-acting contraceptives in the wake of the election. …

According to a National Survey of Children's Health, one in four Hoosier kids aged six to 17 aren't involved in extracurricular activities.

Winter after-school programs foster skills for Hoosier kids

As winter sets in, advocates are spotlighting the need for after-school programs to provide Indiana youth with safe spaces to build skills, stay …

Tips on navigating post-election sensitivities this Thanksgiving

At Thanksgiving, millions of Americans will see relatives who may be on the other side of the political divide for the first time since the election …

Senate confirmation hearings will likely start in January for President-elect Donald Trump's cabinet nominees, including Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. to lead the Department of Health and Human Services. (Gage Skidmore/Wikimedia Commons)<br />

Health experts speak out against RFK Jr. leading Health and Human Services

Groups fighting to improve access to health care are asking the U.S. Senate to reject Robert F. Kennedy Jr's nomination for Secretary of Health and …

Colorado's Hospital Discounted Care law requires all hospitals to take steps to make hospital bills more affordable for low- to moderate-income residents. (Adobe Stock)

CO hospitals fail on informing consumers about rights and discounts

Colorado hospitals got failing grades for compliance with the Colorado Hospital Discounted Care law, according to a new report. The law passed in 20…

According to the CDC, peaks of respiratory disease usually happen from about December to February.(Adobe Stock)

Georgia doctors urge residents to stay healthy ahead of holidays

With flu and COVID-19 cases increasing during the holiday season, a Georgia doctor said now is the time to take steps to protect yourself and your …

The 2024 Kids Count County Data Book focuses on the disproportionate impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences on Kentucky kids. (Adobe Stock)

Report: Many KY kids lead fragmented and traumatic lives

Nearly one in four Kentucky kids has experienced at least two Adverse Childhood Experiences, or ACEs, including abuse, neglect or household …

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Health

MI health centers fight for critical funding on Capitol Hill

Free, unbiased health insurance help available for Ohioans

TN health centers voice concerns about future of low-cost drug program

Bridging the gap: NC foundation tackles dental care crisis

Blue, blue Christmas: Coping with holiday grief, loss

Report: Operating margins at NYS hospitals affect patient care

More support needed for over half-million WI family caregivers

TX Sierra Club warns about possible changes to water standards

New relief for Arkansans suffering from long COVID

Sustaining services for rural Ohio's sexual-violence survivors

Health advocates rallying in D.C. for critical funding

SD rep joins 300 in D.C. calling for more rural health center funding

As candidates are sworn in, some will be reminded of factory farm health impacts

Diabetes drug could help IN residents ease COVID symptoms

Pro-choice wins in election signal promise for potential ID initiative

Wayne State study links head, neck cancers to air pollution

CDC develops five-year plan to improve health of rural Americans

Colorado commemorates World AIDS Day

A long road for Medicaid work requirements in South Dakota

World AIDS Day sheds light on prevalence in Wisconsin

Continuing education opportunities for KY’s social and health workers

World AIDS Day: Looking back at public-health and moral crisis

Alabama leaders unite to address gun violence, reimagine community safety

In New Year, Medicaid will cover WV youths transitioning out of incarceration

Support for Tennesseans facing grief, loss during holiday season

Medicare changes in 2025 to benefit Oregonians

Grief can be more painful during holiday season

World AIDS Day puts focus on perception

Studies show diabetes medicine may help with COVID aftereffects

Calls to LGBTQ+ helpline surge following Election Day

World AIDS Day highlights progress, challenges in fighting HIV in NC

U.S. Supreme Court ponders review of WI gender-identity case

Colorado obesity rate linked to economic inequality, low minimum wages

Report: Number of PA uninsured children stable, but no progress

Tribal leaders call syphilis outbreak 'public health emergency'

Psychiatrist: Don't ignore grief of loss during holidays

Whooping cough cases rise in Tennessee, nationwide

Maryland trains more health workers to offer abortion care

Activist: Dairy may not be best way to get your calcium

New England clinics see post-election spike in contraceptive requests

Tips for helping kids recover from concussions

Post-election contraceptive requests increase at ME clinics

Winter after-school programs foster skills for Hoosier kids

Tips on navigating post-election sensitivities this Thanksgiving

Health experts speak out against RFK Jr. leading Health and Human Services

CO hospitals fail on informing consumers about rights and discounts

Georgia doctors urge residents to stay healthy ahead of holidays

Report: Many KY kids lead fragmented and traumatic lives