The Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) Health News Minute weekly updates frequently bring essential health issues into the spotlight. This article summarizes multiple health topics covered in KFF broadcasts from March to September of the previous year.
Rural Hospitals and Healthcare
The week of September 5th painted a grim picture for residents of rural areas. Scores of rural hospitals have reportedly ceased providing cancer care. Looming decisions concerning the lawmakers’ handling of anti-abortion policies also made headlines.
Further, Medicaid expansion was discussed as a potential lifeline for rural hospitals in the week of March 14th. The broadened scope could prevent some facilities from shutting down, subsequently ensuring continuous healthcare access in remote regions.
Tackling the Opioid Crisis
In the week of August 29th, KFF Health News Minute emphasized Montana’s unique approach to combatting substance abuse. Authorities have introduced vending machines that dispense opioid overdose medication, freely accessible to those affected. Meanwhile, a wave of opioid overdose deaths due to fentanyl-laced stimulants has been on the rise, as reported in the week of August 22nd.
The Impact of Social Media
KFF broadcasts during August focused significantly on the psychological impact of social media, particularly on youth. On one hand, the week of August 15th brought to light the beneficial potential of social media for teenagers’ mental wellbeing. On the other, legislators grappled with defining a successful legal strategy to mitigate the detrimental mental health consequences of the same, as reported in the week of August 29th.
The weeks of August 1st and 8th emphasized continuing concerns regarding women’s reproductive autonomy. Increased instances of women ending pregnancies unaided were reported. Further, the ongoing struggles states face in safeguarding abortion rights were highlighted.
Provider and Patient Challenges
Jan 4th week report spotlighted the expansion of Medicaid programs while its coverage was addressed in the week of April 25th. The broadcasts stressed concerns about eligible homeless people losing access to Medicaid. Concurrently, a growing trend of patients facing enormous medical bills due to paperwork errors was highlighted during the August 1st reporting.
Progressive Healthcare Measures
The week of July 25th highlighted Philadelphia’s innovative program addressing gun violence trauma. Additionally, focus was laid on the potential benefits of drones in making life-saving treatment during emergencies more efficient, as addressed in the August 1st week.