Category: children’s health

A Switch To Medicaid Managed Care Worries Some Illinois Foster Families

Illinois is moving thousands of children into its Medicaid managed-care program. Proponents say the approach can cut costs while increasing access to care. But after a phase-one rollout of the new health plans caused thousands to temporarily lose coverage, some question whether it’s the right move.

How Climate Change Is Putting Doctors In The Hot Seat

Health care providers are seeing the effects of climate change in hospitals across the U.S. ― and urging their peers to take action.

Pediatric Practices Struggle To Adapt And Survive Amid COVID-19

Across the U.S., pediatric practices that provide front-line care for the nation’s children are struggling to adjust to crashing revenues, terrified parents and a shortage of protective equipment — and all while being asked to care for young patients who could well be vectors for transmission without showing symptoms.

California Isn’t Testing Enough Children For Lead, Prompting Legislation

A recent report by the California state auditor faults two state health departments for failing to ensure that children receive required blood lead tests and for not doing enough to reduce childhood lead exposure in high-risk areas. Lawmakers are proposing several measures to increase testing.

Now On The Menu At Closed Schools: Drive-Thru Lunches

As schools shutter to stem the spread of the novel coronavirus, many districts are still offering free meals to their most vulnerable students. In two Southern California districts, families roll through school lunch drive-thrus to grab hot meals.

Many Schools Have Closed ― But Not All. What Parents Need To Know About That Tough Call.

Closing K-12 schools is part of a broad strategy to limit public interactions and slow the spread of COVID-19 cases. But the decision is far from easy, with conflicting science about how effective such closures are weighed against the massive disruption to families’ lives.

As Youth Suicides Climb, Anguished Parents Begin To Speak Out

The suicide rate for children ages 10 to 14 almost tripled in a decade and is still rising. As parents grapple with loss, some turn to activism.

Despite A Birth By A Colorado Legislator, Paid Family Leave Bill Feels Labor Pains

A Colorado lawmaker giving birth near the start of the state’s four-month legislative session highlighted the lack of comprehensive paid family leave. Yet a bill to add a statewide system that once seemed a sure thing is getting bogged down.

Maine Voters Consider U-Turn On Vaccine Exemptions

States tried to tighten vaccine requirements last year in the midst of measles outbreaks, but a backlash against a tougher law in Maine put a referendum on the ballot there. Voters weigh in on Super Tuesday.

Must-Reads Of The Week From Brianna Labuskes

Newsletter editor Brianna Labuskes wades through hundreds of health care policy stories each week, so you don’t have to.