Selena Simmons-Duffin

Author's posts

COVID-19 Contact Tracing Workforce Barely ‘Inching Up’ As Cases Surge

The number of people working to stop COVID-19 outbreaks from spreading is far from the level needed in most states, according to a new NPR survey and analysis. Find out how your state is doing.

Coronavirus Cases Are Surging. The Contact Tracing Workforce Is Not

NPR surveyed all 50 states about their contact tracing work. The workforce has barely grown since mid-June while cases have skyrocketed.

LGBTQ Clinics Sue Trump Administration Over Discrimination In Trans Health Care

A lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s rule affecting LGBTQ discrimination in health care was filed Monday. Plaintiffs say last week’s Supreme Court decision has put “wind in our sails.”

New Government Rule Removes Non-Discrimination Protections For LGBTQ In Health Care

The Trump administration has finalized a rule on Friday that would remove non-discrimination protections for LGBTQ people when it comes to health care and health insurance.

Transgender Health Protections Reversed By Trump Administration

Trump has reversed Obama-era protections that prohibit discrimination in health care based on gender identity. Critics warn the rule could harm a vulnerable group — LGBTQ people — during a pandemic.

White House Coronavirus Testing Czar To Stand Down

Adm. Brett Giroir says he will be “demobilized” from his role overseeing coronavirus testing at FEMA in mid-June and going back to his regular job at the Department of Health and Human Services.

What Happens To Health Coverage After The Job Loss

The end of May marks a deadline for the millions of people who have lost job-based health insurance in March to enroll in a new plan.

What Happened Today: Coronavirus Death Tolls Crosses 100,000, Insurance Questions

NPR’s health policy reporter answers listener questions about what to do and how to get health care after losing health insurance.

What Happened Today: American Cities Struggle As Tax Revenues Bottom Out

Many people have lost their health insurance along with their jobs during the pandemic. NPR’s health policy correspondent answers listener questions on how to navigate the health care system now.

Tell Your Story: Have You Lost Health Insurance During The Coronavirus Crisis?

Millions have likely lost their health insurance. If you’re one of them, we want to hear about the decisions you’re making. Go without? Find a new plan? Tell us what you’re thinking.