Navigating Public Policy, Technology, Health, Data, and Innovation for a Fairer Future
When it comes to healthcare in the United States, the picture is one of contrasts. This is the central message of the 2022 National Healthcare Quality and Disparities Report (NHQDR), published by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). A mosaic of triumphs and trials, the report provides a panoramic view of American healthcare—spotlighting Read More “An Update on Healthcare Disparities Trends”
In a time when public health leadership is more critical than ever, the appointment of Dr. Mandy Cohen as the new Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) brings a wave of optimism and confidence. A seasoned public health professional, Dr. Cohen’s track record of dedication, innovation, and resilience makes her an Read More “Hope for The New CDC Director”
Antibiotic resistance is a big problem that scientists around the world are trying to solve. When bacteria become resistant to antibiotics, it becomes harder to treat infections and illnesses. Several new studies have provided interesting insights into this pressing issue. One study showed that the timing of antibiotic administration could influence the rate of antibiotic Read More “The Antibiotic Resistance Issue”
The Methodology The WPFI evaluates countries based on seven criteria: pluralism, media independence, environment and self-censorship, legislative framework, transparency, infrastructure, and abuses. The index takes into account the legal framework for the media, the level of independence of the public media, and the existence of a state monopoly for certain kinds of media. It also Read More “Freedom & The Press: A Global Perspective”
In the heartland of America, a silent crisis is unfolding. Over 600 rural hospitals, nearly 30% of all rural hospitals in the country, are at risk of closing. These closures, a result of financial losses and inadequate payments from private insurance plans, threaten to leave rural communities without essential healthcare services. The Impact of Rural Read More “The Looming Crisis of Rural Hospital Closures”
While working on a project for my father, I became reacquainted with the OCLC (Online Computer Library Center). Founded in 1967 as the Ohio College Library Center, it is one of, if not the, main digital backbones of library collections in the world. In an era defined by digital transformation and information overload, OCLC.org has Read More “Because what is known must be shared”
The cost of prescription drugs, a hot-button issue across the United States, is also causing a stir in Indiana, a state where lawmakers are wrestling with the moral, market, and political factors that contribute to high prices. The main hurdles include striking a balance between affordable prices and incentivizing innovation, the lack of price transparency, Read More “In Indiana, a Fight for Affordable Medications: Moral vs. Market”
The modern-day form of slavery that is human trafficking occurs in every state, Indiana is no different. Victims of human trafficking are forced to work against their will, often in dangerous and exploitative conditions. They may be subjected to physical and sexual abuse, and they may be denied food, water, and medical care. Human trafficking Read More “Human Trafficking in Indiana”
The United States is entering a new era of health initiatives, with the spotlight firmly placed on the non-medical factors that influence our well-being. This shift in focus is embodied in the “Healthy People 2030” initiative, which is aiming to set a new standard for nationwide health improvement over the next decade. “Healthy People 2030” Read More “A Spotlight on the Social Determinants of Health”
In a political landscape marked by infighting and a shifting balance of power, President Joe Biden’s first term has proven surprisingly productive. Despite losing control of the House to Republicans and facing internal disagreements within the Democratic party, Biden has managed to pass several major pieces of legislation, some with bipartisan support. The American Rescue Read More “Biden’s Pragmatic Approach Yields Significant Legislative Wins But Who Is Paying Attention”