Chronicling a Year of Important Health Shifts
Health Benefits for DACA Recipients
In recent news, the Affordable Care Act made provisions for DACA recipients to sign up for health plans for the first time. Considered a milestone, this initiative broadens their access to healthcare benefits. Adding to this, some insurers and healthcare facilities have started funding ride-hailing services to ensure patients can reach their medical appointments.
Mobile Clinics and Opioid Addiction
Mobile clinics are becoming increasingly helpful in providing rural areas with access to different forms of birth control. However, doctors warn of an emerging trend where people develop opioid addiction through the consumption of tea brewed from unwashed poppy seeds.
COVID-19 Impact on Low-Wage Health Workers
Low-wage health workers are reportedly experiencing post-traumatic stress due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, living alone can severely impact your physical health as you grow older.
Health Care Companies Back Rural Hospitals
Healthcare companies and the federal government collaborate to finance rural hospitals. However, Florida’s surgeon general creates confusion by offering vague guidance about this year’s COVID-19 vaccines.
New Rules for Disability Accommodation
Doctors report an increase in life-threatening high blood pressure cases among pregnant and postpartum mothers. Meanwhile, new regulations require that more public buildings install adult-size changing tables to accommodate people with disabilities.
Vaccine Benefits for Pregnant Women and Elections Impact
New data advocates for pregnant women to get vaccinated to protect newborns from COVID-19. Politically, another Trump victory may allow more states to impose burdening work requirements to qualify for public assistance.
Pediatricians Struggle with Unused COVID Vaccines
Pediatricians aren’t getting refunds for unused COVID vaccines, leaving parents of children under 3 scrambling to find them. In another note, 2023 saw a surge in abortions despite bans and heavy restrictions across 20 states.
Botox to Address Health Condition and Mental Health Issues
Botox has been highlighted for its potential use in treating people suffering from a health condition that prevents them from burping. Shooting survivors also face a shortage of mental health providers when recovering from trauma.
Impact of Congressional Funding for COVID and Flawed Computer Systems
The end to Congressional funding for COVID could financially pressure local health departments, limiting their ability to perform regular functions. Complications arise as flawed computer systems operated by private companies mistakenly remove eligible people from public assistance.
Rural Hospitals and Anti-Abortion Policies
A high number of rural hospitals halted the provision of cancer care, creating a healthcare gap. Amid these challenges, anti-abortion policymakers are scrutinizing clinics while some states contemplate legalizing abortion.
Vending Machines with Lifesaving Medication and Mental Health Risk from Social Media
Public health officials in Montana creatively employ vending machines to distribute lifesaving opioid overdose medication. Meanwhile, policymakers nationwide struggle in shaping a legal strategy to minimize the mental health risks posed by social media to young people.
Rise of Respiratory Syncytial Virus and Fentanyl-Laced Stimulants
There is a surge in treatments and vaccines available for the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). At the same time, stimulants laced with fentanyl continue to drive the wave of opioid overdose deaths.
In the upcoming sections, we will continue to discuss relevant health news and trends from the past year, including contraception, abortion laws, and technological innovations in healthcare. Stay tuned to stay informed.