Health Issues / Public News Service

Indiana ranks 11th in the nation for the share of residents with medical debt in collections, with more than $2.2 billion owed, more than any of its Midwestern neighbors. (Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, July 9, 2025

Hoosiers' medical bills under state review

By Marilyn Odendahl for The Indiana Citizen.Broadcast version by Joe Ulery for Indiana News Service reporting for the Indiana Citizen-Free Press India…

Montana's 2025 main budget bill funded 10 recommendations from the state's Behavioral Health System for Future Generations Commission and Montana lawmakers passed 14 bills related to improving mental health care. (Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, July 9, 2025

Montana to expand mental health treatment for people in justice system

After a legislative session which opened doors to expand mental health care services across Montana, a state commission said it is considering the …

Workers in the nonprofit sector predict veterans, children and older adults will be most adversely impacted by the new federal funding package. (Yingyaipumi/Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, July 9, 2025

AR nonprofits prepare to fill gaps from federal funding cuts

Among the hundreds of pages making up the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" just signed into law is a requirement some people must work to receive Medicaid…

Nearly one-third of Illinois' state budget is allocated to Medicaid and more than 60% of the funding is federal dollars. (Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, July 8, 2025

Medicaid cuts: Disproportionate effects predicted for LGBTQ+ in IL

Advocacy groups are speaking out about how they believe congressional cuts to Medicaid will disproportionately affect caregiver LGBTQ+ communities in …

Senate Bill 31 doesn't change the abortion law but clarifies when a doctor can perform an abortion to save a pregnant person's life. (AndriiKoval/Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, July 8, 2025

Texas doctors leery of changes to 'clarify' abortion law language

Texas lawmakers passed the Life of the Mother Act during the legislative session. It was billed as legislation to clarify when doctors in the state …

1 in 8 Ohioans are employed in the agricultural industry, according to the Ohio Department of Agriculture. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, July 7, 2025

Ohio farmers say federal policies hinder healthy food production

Ohio's food and agriculture industry contributes $124 billion to the state's economy annually. Some farmers, however, argue that government …

Bike Durango won a $12,300 grant to create a bike lane that connects people with multiple municipal amenities, to promote a safer environment for walking and cycling, especially for older adults. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, July 7, 2025

AARP invests $75,000 in CO projects to make communities more livable

The nation's largest advocacy group for people age 50 and older is investing more than $4.2 million, including more than $75,000 in Colorado…

Vanderbilt University's Spring 2025 survey polled more than 1,200 registered voters in Tennessee. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, July 7, 2025

TN poll suggests predicted Medicare cuts will prove unpopular

While cuts to food support programs and Medicaid gained attention as the debate over the budget bill went on, there is also a long-term likelihood it …

In addition to affecting hospice services, the new federal budget is estimated to significantly increase health care costs for more than 1 million low-income Medicare enrollees. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, July 7, 2025

Former WI mayor: Potential Medicare cuts would worsen aging crisis

A former Wisconsin mayor said the new federal budget will only worsen the current aging crisis families like hers have already been facing. Analysis …

Laboratory technicians were among the 1,100 employees at Portland's Providence St. Vincent Hospital recently voting to join Service Employees International Union Local 49. (Adobe Stock)

Portland hospital workers vote to organize, join service employees union

More than 1,100 caregivers at Portland's Providence St. Vincent Medical Center have voted to unionize, joining the Service Employees International …

In rural America, 3.7 million residents do not drive, making access to such services as medical care especially challenging. (Adobe Stock)

Ohio project helps older adults access medical care beyond county lines

A new AARP grant is helping older adults in Marion County access medical care they cannot find close to home. The $15,000 award is part of AARP's …

Pennsylvania gets $4.3 billion yearly for SNAP, helping 1.9 million people but the reconciliation bill could cut benefits for 401,000 Pennsylvanians, according to the Center for American Progress. (Kleberpicui/Adobe Stock)

PA educators warn federal cuts threaten health care, food benefits

As the Senate passes President Donald Trump's tax and spending bill and sends it back to the House, Pennsylvania educators warned in its current form…

The budget bill being debated in Congress would shift some Medicaid administrative costs to states, which could force some hospitals in rural Iowa to reduce services or close. (Adobe Stock)

Medicaid reductions would end coverage for tens of thousands of Iowans

Members of Congress are still debating the massive tax and spending bill which could include deep cuts to social service programs critical to Iowa…

The process known as budget reconciliation bypasses the usual Senate filibuster rules and allows bills to be passed with a simple majority of 51 votes, or 50, plus the Vice President's tie-breaking vote. (Adobe Stock)

IL professor: Senate-passed budget bill not a win, yet

An Illinois professor cautions against premature celebrations of victory or defeat after the U.S. Senate passed President Donald Trump's budget …

The Center for Healthcare Quality and Payment Reform predicts six of California's 58 rural hospitals would have to close if the Republican budget bill is signed into law in its current form. (Pitchayaarch/Adobe Stock)

CA members of Congress face pressure to reject cuts to Medi-Cal

As the U.S. Senate has approved President Donald Trump's tax cut and spending bill, health care advocates are hoping to get California's Republican …

The Montana Nurses Association said the decision from Providence Health Services to close St. Patrick Hospital's maternity center lacked

Negotiations begin next week on Montana maternity center closure

The multistate Providence Health System announced it will close the maternity center at one of its Montana hospitals in October. Opponents are …

The California Parent and Youth Helpline offers free professional counseling seven days a week, with translation services in 240 languages. (Carballo/Adobe Stock)<br />

CA Parent and Youth Helpline cut from state budget

The California Parent and Youth Helpline is in serious jeopardy after Gov. Gavin Newsom cut it from the new state budget, saying the money was needed …

The study found 51% of Medicaid recipients connected to small businesses are children of owners or employees. (Adobe Stock)

Report: WV small business labor force at risk from Medicaid cuts

A new report says cuts to Medicaid will weaken the small business workforce nationwide, potentially shrinking local economies in rural states like …

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said one in six young children in the United States ages 2-8 have a diagnosed mental, behavioral or developmental disorder. (Adobe Stock)

Expert: Do not overlook mental health issues in young children

Minnesota teens are using their summer break to set aside added stress and anxiety they deal with during school and as the age group gets more attenti…

Planned Parenthood of Illinois is seeing an increase in out-of-state patients seeking gender-affirming care as neighboring states enact restrictions and bans. (Adobe Stock)

IL abortion services continue to skyrocket, straining provider resources

Illinois serves as a crucial access point for abortion services and sees the most out-of-state patients in the country. Since Roe v. Wade was …

In Snohomish County, the number of opioid-related overdose deaths more than doubled between 2017 and 2022, mostly from fentanyl. (Adobe Stock)

WA Native Americans feel disproportionate effects of fentanyl

CORRECTIONS: Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson was not at the 3rd annual taskforce summit. An earlier version incorrectly stated he had attended. In …

Dr. Danielle Henderson, a clinical psychologist at IU Health, said Men's Mental Health Awareness Month is a time to reduce stigma, encourage conversation, and support men's mental health. (Adobe stock)

IN men face hidden mental health struggles

By Brittany Noble for WISH-TV.Broadcast version by Joe Ulery for Indiana News Service reporting for the WISH-TV-Free Press Indiana-Public News Service…

In 2023, rural hospitals in Pennsylvania created $17 billion in economic impact and supported more than 80,000 jobs statewide. (Alexander Raths/Adobe Stock)

PA rural hospitals, seniors at risk if Congress cuts Medicaid

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act has hit a roadblock. The Senate parliamentarian has ruled that a key Medicaid provider tax change violates chamber …

In May, protesters in Hanford rallied against Medicaid cuts. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that almost 8 million people would lose Medicaid under the Republican

During Pride Month, CA LGBTQ+ advocates fight proposed cuts to Medi-Cal

June is Pride Month, and people who fight for LGBTQ+ health care are speaking out against huge proposed cuts to Medicaid, known as Medi-Cal in the …

Around 67% of Medicaid beneficiaries in Michigan are enrolled in one of nine managed care plans.<br />(Tada Images/Adobe Stock)

League of Women Voters: Proposed federal cuts threaten MI health

CORRECTION: It was the Senate parliamentarian who decided part of the budget reconciliation bill violates rules for being able to pass it with a simpl…

According to KFF, nearly two-thirds of adults on Medicaid already work and many others qualify for exemptions from Medicaid work requirements due to caregiving, health conditions, disabilities or school attendance. (Syda Productions/Adobe Stock)<br />

Proposed Medicaid cuts threaten health care access for Pennsylvanians

A Pennsylvania nurse is sounding the alarm about proposed cuts to Medicaid funding now in Congress, cuts she said could jeopardize care for her son …

The American Diabetes Association reports treating diabetes in Indiana alone costs an estimated $7 billion each year. (Adobe Stock)

IN diabetes diagnoses trend toward younger adults

Diabetes diagnoses are climbing, with about 37,000 adults diagnosed in Indiana every year, and doctors caution they are seeing more cases in younger …

In 2024, Helena Food Share recovered more than 825,000 pounds of food from grocery stores. (Adobe Stock)

Eight months after expansion, central Montana food bank meets increased need

A central Montana food bank has seen more traffic since it expanded last fall and as Congress considers cuts to safety-net programs including grocery …

A new report from the Bipartisan Policy Center suggested a number of ways to strengthen primary care outcomes in Medicare, including enabling federal tracking and target-setting to report on primary care spending across federal health care programs. (Maha Heang 245789/Adobe Stock)

Alternative payment models better for WA patients and providers

Adopting alternative payment models for people receiving primary care through Medicare is better for providers and patients, according to a new …

The cost of care for dementia patients varies widely by state. At $55,000 per year, care for patients in California is slightly more expensive than the national average.(Ocskay Bence/Adobe Stock)

Study: CA families shoulder sky-high costs of dementia care

In California, families shoulder most of the burden of dementia care, according to a new study. Researchers from the University of Washington found …

American Indian and Alaska Native Coloradans paid higher monthly and out of pocket health care costs, even with insurance, compared to their white peers, research shows. (Adobe Stock)

Health gaps persist for American Indian, Alaska Native Coloradans

American Indian and Alaska Native communities in Colorado continue to face significant gaps in health care access, quality and outcomes, according to …

Medicare provides health care for more than 65 million Americans. A report from the Bipartisan Policy Center concludes the current system for reimbursing primary care physicians requires reform. (Adobe Stock)

Health advocates propose alternative payment system for KS primary care

Policy experts said the current Medicare payment system for reimbursing primary care physicians in Kansas and elsewhere is flawed and needs to be revi…

Social determinants of health, such as housing, education, income and access to transportation, account for up to 80% of health outcomes. (Zerbor/Adobe Stock)

Missouri trailblazers awarded $200,000 for health equity work

The Missouri Foundation for Health has named the first five winners of its new "Spark Prize," an award backing Missourians who are working to promote …

In Colorado and across the United States, seniors wait almost three hours in the emergency room per visit, about 43% live alone, and a quarter of older homeowners spend more than 30% of their income on housing, according to a new Seniorly report. (Adobe Stock)

Colorado ranks 15th nationally for safely aging in place

A new report ranks Colorado as the 15th safest state in the nation for aging in place, tied with Michigan. A record 4.2 million Americans are …

In a proclamation, Gov. Greg Abbott said Senate Bill 3 would never go into effect because of valid constitutional challenges. (WutStock01/Adobe Stock AI)

TX Lt. Gov. lashes out at governor over veto of THC ban

Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick are at odds after the governor vetoed Senate Bill 3, legislation which would have banned the sale of …

Each week, participants in Ohio State University-Lima's

Drumming through Parkinson’s at The Ohio State University

A drumming program at Ohio State University-Lima is helping people dealing with Parkinson's disease improve coordination, memory, and overall …

It is estimated one young child goes to the emergency room every nine minutes because of medication ingestion. (Adobe Stock/AI)

KY child overdose cases highlighted during National Safety Month

June is National Safety Month and experts are highlighting medication safety for Kentucky kids. Kentucky has seen a steady increase in pediatric …

Cities across New Mexico are celebrating Pride Month, with a parade scheduled at Santa Fe's historic downtown plaza on Sat., June 28. (Alberto/Adobe Stock)

NM Pride celebrations urge 'resilience' after U.S. v. Skrmetti ruling

Amid concerns about the breakdown in protections for LGBTQ folks, a New Mexico advocacy group says resilience is needed to ensure their safety and …

Iowans with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia are often cared for by unpaid family members or friends. (Adobe Stock)

Iowa caregiving provider network grows

Iowa has joined a growing network that provides comprehensive and social service resources to the state's unpaid family caregivers. Nationwide…

Thermal imaging of emissions rising from Total's Bruder drill site in Arlington, Texas. (photo courtesy EARTHWORKS)

'One Big Beautiful Bill Act' could mean big changes for TX environment

As Congress continues to debate specifics of the budget reconciliation bill, also known as the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," environmental rights …

Nearly 122 million adults, about 47% of the population, have hypertension. (wavebreak3/Adobe Stock)

Check out books, blood pressure cuffs at Missouri libraries

More St. Louis County libraries are teaming up with the American Heart Association to offer blood pressure cuffs for checkout, to help people take …

Medicaid is the largest source of medical care or health care in Kentucky, covering about one and a half million Kentuckians, according to state data (Adobe Stock)

Kentucky’s new Medicaid Oversight and Advisory Board convenes

Kentucky's newly established Medicaid Oversight and Advisory Board convenes for its first meeting this week - on Wednesday June 25th. Lawmakers …

There are about 30 rules to which the EPA is considering repeals or rollbacks. (Adobe Stock)

EPA proposed rollbacks on pollution rules could come at high cost

As federal lawmakers move forward with proposed environmental protection rollbacks, advocates are sounding the alarm and requesting additional time …

The new law could increase people's credit score by 20 points on average. (Delmaine Donson/peopleimages.com/Adobe Stock)

New law strikes medical debt from Oregonians' credit scores

A bill prohibiting credit reporting on Oregonians' medical debt has been signed into law by Gov. Tina Kotek. Hailed as a significant victory for …

Opponents of upholding bans on gender-affirming care for transgender youth say it opens the door to heavily restricting birth control and in vitro fertilization, or IVF. (Adobe Stock)

Challenge to ND gender-affirming care ban in play, despite SCOTUS ruling

The U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday released an opinion that allows Tennessee to keep in place a ban on gender-affirming care for minors. While seen …

According to KFF, federal Medicaid spending in Kentucky would be reduced by about $15 billion over the next 10 years under cuts proposed in the reconciliation bill. (Nick Lohre/Adobe Stock)

Cuts in federal mega-bill could close Kentucky hospitals

As Congress considers cuts to safety-net programs in what Republicans are calling the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," new analysis from the nonpartisan …

Fluoridation of drinking water has been considered one of the top 10 public health achievements of the 20th century, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (Adobe Stock)

Despite known Iowa nitrate risks, EPA focuses on fluoride

By Gabriella Sotelo for Sentient.Broadcast version by Mark Moran for Iowa News Service reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Collaboration T…

Lawmakers have recently introduced legislation to compensate chicken farmers more fairly as they work to contain avian flu. (Nipawan/Adobe Stock)

Trump’s plan to lower egg prices, explained

By Seth Millstein for Sentient.Broadcast version by Suzanne Potter for California News Service reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Collabor…

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PNS Daily Newscast: Afternoon Update - July 10, 2025

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Health

Hoosiers' medical bills under state review

Montana to expand mental health treatment for people in justice system

AR nonprofits prepare to fill gaps from federal funding cuts

Medicaid cuts: Disproportionate effects predicted for LGBTQ+ in IL

Texas doctors leery of changes to 'clarify' abortion law language

Ohio farmers say federal policies hinder healthy food production

AARP invests $75,000 in CO projects to make communities more livable

TN poll suggests predicted Medicare cuts will prove unpopular

Former WI mayor: Potential Medicare cuts would worsen aging crisis

Portland hospital workers vote to organize, join service employees union

Ohio project helps older adults access medical care beyond county lines

PA educators warn federal cuts threaten health care, food benefits

Medicaid reductions would end coverage for tens of thousands of Iowans

IL professor: Senate-passed budget bill not a win, yet

CA members of Congress face pressure to reject cuts to Medi-Cal

Negotiations begin next week on Montana maternity center closure

CA Parent and Youth Helpline cut from state budget

Report: WV small business labor force at risk from Medicaid cuts

Expert: Do not overlook mental health issues in young children

IL abortion services continue to skyrocket, straining provider resources

WA Native Americans feel disproportionate effects of fentanyl

IN men face hidden mental health struggles

PA rural hospitals, seniors at risk if Congress cuts Medicaid

During Pride Month, CA LGBTQ+ advocates fight proposed cuts to Medi-Cal

League of Women Voters: Proposed federal cuts threaten MI health

Proposed Medicaid cuts threaten health care access for Pennsylvanians

IN diabetes diagnoses trend toward younger adults

Eight months after expansion, central Montana food bank meets increased need

Alternative payment models better for WA patients and providers

Study: CA families shoulder sky-high costs of dementia care

Health gaps persist for American Indian, Alaska Native Coloradans

Health advocates propose alternative payment system for KS primary care

Missouri trailblazers awarded $200,000 for health equity work

Colorado ranks 15th nationally for safely aging in place

TX Lt. Gov. lashes out at governor over veto of THC ban

Drumming through Parkinson’s at The Ohio State University

KY child overdose cases highlighted during National Safety Month

NM Pride celebrations urge 'resilience' after U.S. v. Skrmetti ruling

Iowa caregiving provider network grows

'One Big Beautiful Bill Act' could mean big changes for TX environment

Check out books, blood pressure cuffs at Missouri libraries

Kentucky’s new Medicaid Oversight and Advisory Board convenes

EPA proposed rollbacks on pollution rules could come at high cost

New law strikes medical debt from Oregonians' credit scores

Challenge to ND gender-affirming care ban in play, despite SCOTUS ruling

Cuts in federal mega-bill could close Kentucky hospitals

Despite known Iowa nitrate risks, EPA focuses on fluoride

Trump’s plan to lower egg prices, explained