Category: Florida

Health Care Is Front and Center as DeSantis and Newsom Go Mano a Mano

Florida’s Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis and California’s Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom will square off in a first-of-its-kind debate on Nov. 30. KFF Health News compared the political rivals’ health care positions, showing how their policies have helped — or hindered — the health of their states’ residents.

What Would a DeSantis Presidency Look Like for Health Care?

Ron DeSantis’ record as Florida governor provides some clues to how he would change the health care landscape if elected president. In his five years as governor, DeSantis has promoted stricter abortion rules and emphasized individual freedom over the benefits of public health.

How Lawmakers in Texas and Florida Undermine Covid Vaccination Efforts

State legislatures and politicians are pressuring public health officials to keep quiet about covid vaccines.

‘Worse Than People Can Imagine’: Medicaid ‘Unwinding’ Breeds Chaos in States

As Medicaid programs across the nation review enrollees’ status in the wake of the pandemic, patients struggle to navigate the upheaval.

Rare ‘Flesh-Eating’ Bacterium Spreads North as Oceans Warm

A rise in cases of Vibrio vulnificus and its spread northward have heightened concern about the bacterium, which can cause human tissue to rot and skin to decay. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is trying to make more doctors aware of the dangerous pathogen.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis Injects Presidential Politics Into the Covid Vaccine Debate

Losing ground in the Republican primary, Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida and his top medical advisers dismissed the recent federal recommendation that almost everyone get an updated covid shot.

More Cities Address ‘Shade Deserts’ as Extreme Heat Triggers Health Issues

Where trees are growing — and who has access to their shade — affects health and well-being, especially in one of the hottest states in the country.

More Cities Address ‘Shade Deserts’ as Extreme Heat Triggers Health Issues

Where trees are growing — and who has access to their shade — affects health and well-being, especially in one of the hottest states in the country.

Doctors Hesitate to Ask About Patients’ Immigration Status Despite New Florida Law

Florida’s new immigration law requires hospitals to ask patients about their immigration status at admission and in emergency rooms, and report that information plus the cost of care for residents without legal status. Doctors and nurses who oppose the policy seem reluctant to criticize lawmakers for fear of political retribution.

As Water Reuse Expands, Proponents Battle the ‘Yuck’ Factor

As drought and climate change threaten water supplies, municipalities around the country are ramping up water reuse efforts. But they have to overcome the “yuk” factor.