Those with substance use issues struggle amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic; health experts cite police brutality as a public health issue; CMS reports COVID-19 death toll in US nursing homes.
A piece published by Kaiser Health News describes how Americans with substance abuse issues are struggling to adapt to new circumstances precipitated by the coronavirus disease 2019, particularly for those who are homeless and devoid of services closed down during the pandemic. In Philadelphia, where in 2019 more than 3 people a day died on average of drug overdoses, a program called Prevention Point Philadelphia had provided naloxone HCI, sold as Narcan, before the pandemic. Since lockdown measures have been put in place, the organization has handed out nearly twice as much of the drug as usual.
Several health groups have cited police brutality as a public health issue, especially amid the pandemic as communities of color exhibit a disproportionate COVID-19 death toll. Reported by The Hill, recent protests regarding the death of George Floyd have worried public health experts as mass gatherings may harm social distancing efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19. However, police brutality and the over-policing of communities of color also serves as a concern for public health, with a study linking high levels of chronic stress among African Americans, caused by stressors such as discrimination and socioeconomic status, with a heightened risk of developing hypertension.
Yesterday, CMS released a report saying that nearly 26,000 residents in nursing homes have died from COVID-19, according to The Associated Press. The preliminary findings are expected to rise as only 80% of nursing homes have reported and no assisted living facilities were included. This follows requirements established by CMS for elder care facilities to report any cases of COVID-19 directly to the CDC, as well as to families of the residents. CMS is expected to post full data for researchers and the general public later this week.
Examining Low-Value Cancer Care Trends Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic
April 25th 2024On this episode of Managed Care Cast, we're talking with the authors of a study published in the April 2024 issue of The American Journal of Managed Care® about their findings on the rates of low-value cancer care services throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
Listen
Insurance Coverage Limits JAKi Therapy Access for Patients With AA, Especially Non-White Populations
April 25th 2024A survey study showed major barriers to Janus kinase inhibitor (JAKi) therapy for patients with alopecia areata, especially for non-White patients who face higher rates of being uninsured and struggle more to afford the treatment.
Read More
Empowering Community Health Through Wellness and Faith
April 23rd 2024To help celebrate and recognize National Minority Health Month, we are bringing you a special month-long podcast series with our Strategic Alliance Partner, UPMC Health Plan. In the third episode, Camille Clarke-Smith, EdD, MS, CHES, CPT, discusses approaching community health holistically through spiritual and community engagement.
Listen