All articles tagged with #community health
Hays doctors with extensive clinical experience encourage community members to ask their healthcare providers questions about vaccinations, emphasizing the importance of immunizations in reducing respiratory illnesses and hospitalizations, especially during peak seasons.
Dr. Margaret Stiles was named Virginia Community Healthcare Association Provider of the Year for her exceptional dedication, leadership, and compassionate care at Eastern Shore Rural Health, notably during staffing transitions and a local avian flu outbreak, while serving a medically underserved community.
An Aurora neighborhood is becoming a 'pharmacy desert' after the closure of a Safeway store that had served the community for 35 years, prompting local residents to rely on smaller pharmacies like Apex Pharmacy for their healthcare needs.
In Michigan, some communities like Grayling are ending water fluoridation due to personal choice concerns and shifting political attitudes, despite its long history as a public health measure. This trend is part of a broader national and international debate, influenced by critics, changing scientific opinions, and political actions, which could lead to increased dental health issues, especially among vulnerable populations. The lack of mandatory notification about fluoridation cessation raises concerns about public awareness and health impacts.
Parkview's DNA Insights program, now open to the public, offers free genetic testing to adults with a MyChart account to assess risks for certain cancers, high cholesterol, and traits, aiming to advance personalized medicine and community health research.
HaysMed is replacing its traditional drive-thru flu shot clinic with a more flexible, integrated approach by offering free flu shots during monthly blood screening events in fall 2025, aiming to improve accessibility and community engagement while continuing its tradition of supporting local families through food donations.
Portland's largest public health provider faces significant budget cuts that could have long-term impacts on community health services, including programs supporting low-income mothers and families.
The article discusses how recent cuts to public health funding in the US are undermining essential health programs and services, leading to a decline in disease prevention efforts and risking community health and safety.
The article highlights the positive impact of a community health clinic in Madison, Wisconsin, where staff provide comprehensive care and support to patients like Florenzo Cribbs, emphasizing the importance of personalized and holistic healthcare services.
The Southern Nevada Health District has reported an increase in norovirus cases in the Las Vegas Valley, detected through community wastewater. Norovirus, often called the "stomach flu," is a leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea in the U.S. and typically sees a rise in cases from November to April. The virus spreads easily through direct contact, contaminated food, or surfaces, and can be contagious for weeks after symptoms resolve. Health officials urge residents to take precautions, especially during the holiday season, and recommend updated flu and COVID-19 vaccinations.
A mother in Harlingen, Texas, warns the community about Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) after her 1-year-old son contracted the virus following a visit to a splash pad. The child experienced severe symptoms, including high fever and febrile seizures, and is still recovering. Pediatric specialist Dr. Asim Zamir explains that HFMD is common among children and spreads more easily in warm, humid conditions. Parents are advised to practice good hygiene and be cautious of public areas.
Norfolk Southern will pay a $15 million fine and over $500 million for safety improvements and community health concerns following last year's derailment in East Palestine, Ohio. The settlement, which includes no criminal charges, has left many residents feeling it is insufficient. The railroad has already spent $780 million on cleanup and $107 million in aid, and it will continue to invest in safety measures. The National Transportation Safety Board's investigation into the derailment's cause is still ongoing.
A study by Mass General Brigham researchers found that nighttime gunshots and subsequent sirens may have a larger impact on the health and well-being of millions of people than previously thought, potentially disrupting sleep and affecting population health. The study, which looked at 72,236 gunshot reports from six U.S. cities, concluded that nighttime gunshots were more prevalent, with an estimated 12.5 million individual instances of people hearing a gunshot annually in these cities. The research highlighted the potential impact on economically vulnerable neighborhoods and aims to inspire future efforts to support communities affected by these events.
Boulder, Colorado's Fruit and Veg program, funded by a local soda tax, provides coupons for fresh produce to families in need, allowing them to choose and buy nutritious food. The program, serving about 580 families, aims to bridge the gap for those who don't qualify for federal benefits. Nutrition incentive programs like this have shown success in increasing fruit and vegetable consumption, with high coupon redemption rates. The use of soda tax revenue to fund such programs is innovative, providing a "triple win" for consumers, farmers, and the economy, and is seen as a creative way to promote healthy eating.
The Santa Barbara County Public Health Department is hosting a series of back to school health fairs, offering free health screenings, information on staying healthy, and free or low-cost COVID and MMR immunizations. The fairs are open to all, including those without insurance, and aim to raise awareness of health risks, promote healthy habits, and connect families to medical insurance and resources. The events will feature various partners providing information on their services, food trucks, prizes, and speeches from local officials. The fairs are being held during National Health Center Week.