Patti Neighmond

Some people skipped care because of failing finances or fear of the virus, doctors say. Others find medical practices closed to new patients. Many are suffering health consequences, an NPR poll finds.

As gyms open for business, new rules aim to limit the spread of COVID-19, including spacing equipment, regular cleanings and limiting attendance. But experts say it’s still safer to exercise at home.

In severe cases of COVID-19, as lungs become inflamed, membranes that transfer oxygen into the blood can become blocked. Some hospitalized patients need mechanical breathing support to recover.

To keep the new coronavirus from spreading in the U.S., hospitals say they need new and sustained funding for good epidemiology as well as more masks, gowns and gloves.

As evacuees who cleared a 14-day quarantine return home to their communities, a U.S. man talks of his experience in China and the transition home.

So far, only 15 cases of coronavirus disease have been identified in the U.S. But if large numbers of people were to suddenly get infected, are hospitals prepared to cope?

A new Office of Inspector General report finds many of the areas of the country in greatest need of the opioid treatment medication buprenorphine have trouble accessing it.

If the coronavirus spreads more widely, can U.S. hospitals handle such a surge in illness? Probably not — meaning public health officials would have to accurately identify who is most severely ill.

Pregnant women and people with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes and heart disease are particularly vulnerable to flu complications yet lag the elderly in getting vaccinated.