Navigating Public Policy, Technology, Health, Data, and Innovation for a Fairer Future
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”
In a surprising turn of events, the number of migrants attempting to cross the southwest U.S. border has plummeted to its lowest point since President Biden took office. Border Patrol is currently intercepting just over 3,000 migrants daily, a stark contrast to the more than 10,000 daily interceptions recorded merely three weeks ago. This decline Read More “A Significant Decline in Migrant Crossings: another win for the WH”
As the United States grapples with the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic, a new report from Security.org offers a glimmer of hope amid the adversity. Despite rising housing costs and the economic strain of the pandemic, the number of people experiencing homelessness in America is lower today than a decade ago. The report, which Read More “Progress Amid Housing Challenges”
Economic challenges are a significant precursor to homelessness, perpetuating a cycle of housing instability and vulnerability. Understanding the most recent available information sheds light on the current state of underemployment, low wages, and their impact on housing insecurity. Underemployment: In recent years, underemployment has been a persistent challenge for many individuals and families. While the Read More “The Economics of Homelessness”