All articles tagged with #access to care
Originally Published 3 months ago — by CNN
A 2025 report by Mental Health America ranks New York, Hawaii, and New Jersey as the top states for mental health, while Nevada, Arizona, and Alabama rank lowest, highlighting ongoing disparities and the need for increased investment and policy changes to improve mental health services across the US.
Originally Published 4 months ago — by The Guardian
The article argues that AI has the potential to address many of the shortcomings of human doctors, such as diagnostic errors, outdated knowledge, and access issues, by providing consistent, rapid, and accurate medical insights, ultimately transforming healthcare delivery despite current challenges like digital divides and biases.
Originally Published 1 year ago — by CNN
Abortion providers in Florida are bracing for a public health crisis as the state's six-week abortion ban draws closer, with concerns about patients resorting to unsafe methods. Providers are preparing to help patients travel out of state for care, but the impending restrictions will severely limit access. Planned Parenthood is already connecting Florida patients to out-of-state care, and providers are working to see as many patients as possible before the ban takes effect. A proposed constitutional amendment to protect the right to an abortion in Florida before fetal viability will hit the ballots in November, but experts say abortion rights in Florida may still face challenges even if the amendment passes.
Originally Published 1 year ago — by Fox News
A study from Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston reveals that coordinating medical care for older adults is overwhelmingly complex, with an average of 20.7 total contact days spent on medical care per year. Experts emphasize the stress and strain on seniors and their caregivers, as well as the challenges of navigating the healthcare system, including multiple appointments, insurance barriers, and treatment costs. The rise of digital technologies further complicates access to care, leading to potential neglect of medical needs. Tips for reducing the burden include discussing health priorities with doctors, seeking assistance from social workers or patient navigators, and asking questions to ensure understanding of treatment plans.
Originally Published 1 year ago — by Yahoo! Voices
Elizabeth Carr, the first person born through IVF in the U.S., will attend the State of the Union as a guest of Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine to advocate for IVF access. The recent Alabama Supreme Court ruling that frozen embryos are considered "children" under state law has caused clinics to pause aspects of their IVF programs, sparking concerns about access to fertility treatments. While a new law in Alabama allows clinics to resume IVF treatments without fear of liability, it does not address the underlying issue of the status of embryos in the IVF process. Carr emphasizes the importance of protecting IVF access for a wide range of individuals beyond those struggling with infertility.
Originally Published 1 year ago — by Medscape
The future of obesity medicine holds significant changes, including a shift towards prioritizing dietary quality, a focus on fat loss instead of weight loss in antiobesity medications, efforts to increase energy expenditure, the development of less frequent administration options, and the need to address barriers to access such as medication costs and lack of obesity medicine providers. Policymakers are also aiming to reform the sick-care system to improve access to obesity treatments.
Originally Published 1 year ago — by Daily Mail
A study by the think tank Rand Corporation revealed that Americans are facing varying wait times for virtual mental healthcare, with some waiting up to two and a half months for appointments. Access to care varies widely by state, with Southern states generally having shorter wait times than those on the coasts. The study attributed longer wait times to shortages of mental health providers, telehealth policies, and access to high-speed internet. The US is currently experiencing a mental health crisis, with increased rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide. Telehealth has become more prevalent, especially in rural areas, offering a more accessible avenue for timely communication with healthcare providers.
Originally Published 2 years ago — by The Associated Press
Since the overturning of Roe v. Wade in June 2022, accessing abortion in the United States has become increasingly difficult, with longer wait times and limited availability of clinics. About half of U.S. states now have laws that ban or restrict access to abortion, leading to increased demand for appointments at the remaining providers. Delays in obtaining abortions can result in more complex and riskier procedures, especially as pregnancies progress. Traveling out of state for care has become necessary for many, causing further delays and financial burdens. While clinics have taken steps to reduce wait times, individual challenges such as childcare, travel, and financial concerns remain difficult to overcome. The average driving distance to the nearest clinic has also increased in some states. The ongoing barriers to accessing abortion highlight the need for continued advocacy for reproductive rights and improved access to care.
Originally Published 2 years ago — by Boston Herald
Chronic pain affects millions of Americans, but the current standard of care, which often relies on opioids and invasive surgeries, is insufficient. However, medical science has developed innovative medical devices that provide targeted therapy for certain types of chronic pain. These devices, such as spinal cord stimulators and interspinous spacer devices, offer minimally invasive alternatives with fewer complications and reduced reliance on opioids. Despite their effectiveness, many private insurers do not cover these treatments, limiting patient access. Policymakers and insurers need to ensure that qualifying patients have access to these innovative interventional therapies to alleviate suffering and reduce the economic burden of chronic pain.
Originally Published 2 years ago — by NBC News
Monroe County Hospital in rural Alabama has closed its labor and delivery department, leaving the community without a birthing hospital and forcing pregnant women to travel long distances for care. This closure is part of a growing trend in Alabama, where many counties lack hospitals with obstetrics care. The hospital cited a physician shortage as the reason for the closure, but the decision comes at a time when the state is already facing a maternal and infant health crisis. The closure highlights the challenges faced by rural communities in accessing essential healthcare services.
Originally Published 2 years ago — by AOL
Children who survive shootings face significant health obstacles and financial burdens. A study found that in the year after being shot, child and adolescent survivors were more likely to experience pain disorders, psychiatric diagnoses, and substance use disorders compared to their peers. Gunshot injuries added an average of $35,000 to healthcare costs per young person. The study also highlighted the impact on the entire family, with parents of injured children experiencing higher rates of psychiatric disorders. Access to specialized care, especially for rural residents, and the psychological damage from shootings may further exacerbate the challenges faced by survivors.
Originally Published 2 years ago — by CNN
Children who survive shootings face significant health obstacles and costs, according to a study published in Health Affairs. The study found that child and adolescent survivors were more likely to experience pain disorders, psychiatric diagnoses, and substance use disorders compared to their peers. Gun violence remains the leading cause of death for people ages 1 to 19 in the United States, with over 48,000 Americans killed by firearms in 2022. Survivors and their families often face extensive medical needs and financial burdens, with the average cost of being shot adding $35,000 to healthcare expenses. Access to specialized care and support services can be challenging, particularly for rural residents and those relying on public transportation. The psychological impact of shootings may be underestimated due to underreporting and stigma surrounding mental health.
Originally Published 2 years ago — by The Associated Press
Migrants arriving in cities across the United States are facing challenges in accessing medical care. While some cities have robust public health systems to guide new arrivals, others rely on emergency departments or volunteer doctors. There is no national system to track the care provided to migrants, and basic health screenings are often lacking, increasing the risk of infectious disease outbreaks. Migrants also face a lack of access to steady medical care, healthy food, and stable housing. Many avoid seeking help due to fear of high medical bills or distrust of the healthcare system. The patchwork system of care for migrants highlights the need for a more comprehensive and coordinated approach to ensure their health needs are met.
Originally Published 2 years ago — by The Washington Post
Medicare is expanding its coverage for mental health care by allowing marriage and family therapists and mental health counselors to provide services starting in January. This change aims to address the shortage of behavioral health providers who accept Medicare, as many practitioners have opted out due to low payments and bureaucratic challenges. The expansion also includes adding intensive outpatient care, improving navigation and peer-support services, and expanding mobile crisis services. Advocates hope these changes will improve access to mental health and substance use disorder care for older adults, who often face barriers to receiving treatment. However, challenges remain, such as ensuring adequate reimbursement rates for providers and guaranteeing access to mental health services through Medicare Advantage plans. Additionally, legislation proposing mental health parity for Medicare and addressing biases surrounding the mental health of older adults is being considered in Congress.
Originally Published 2 years ago — by KTNV 13 Action News Las Vegas
Nevada is facing an escalating cancer crisis, with rising death rates from the disease. Factors contributing to the crisis include a lack of medical personnel, inadequate care for Black and brown people, and limited access to screenings and treatments. The shortage of cancer doctors in the state puts additional pressure on the healthcare system. Efforts are being made by organizations like the American Cancer Society and the newly established Las Vegas Cancer Institute to address these disparities and fill the gaps in cancer care. It is emphasized that individuals should be their own advocates and prioritize cancer screenings, as help and treatment options are available.