Category: NPR

Race Versus Time: Targeting Vaccine To The Most Vulnerable Is No Speedy Task

The Biden team wants to swiftly vaccinate people of color and others most vulnerable to COVID-19. But health centers are learning that speed and achieving racial equity don’t always go hand in hand.

‘A Loss To The Whole Society’: U.S. COVID-19 Death Toll Reaches 500,000

As the country faces another wrenching milestone, there are signs of hope that we may be beating back the virus. But a brighter future won’t bring back precious lives lost.

When Does COVID-19 Become A Disability? ‘Long-Haulers’ Push For Answers, and Benefits

Many patients suffering from long-term effects can no longer work and want the Social Security Administration to provide guidance on who qualifies for disability benefits.

Guards, Generosity, Patience: A Volunteer Effort To Vaccinate Public School Workers

In Washington, D.C., hospital staff vaccinated 1,750 public school workers in one day. It was a hard-won success amid a fragmented nationwide vaccination campaign fraught with challenges.

‘The Essence Of Truth’: A Doctor’s Photos Document The COVID-19 Crisis In The ER

Dr. Scott Kobner is the chief emergency room resident at the Los Angeles County-USC Medical Center. His black-and-white photos show the suffering, anxiety and chaos unfolding in overrun COVID units.

Texas Hospital Administrator On How Her Facilities Are Handling Water Supply Issues

NPR’s Audie Cornish speaks with Lynn Falcone, CEO of Cuero Regional Hospital and Cuero Health clinics, about how rural healthcare systems are navigating the water issues plaguing the state of Texas.

‘Why Is A Red Stain A Disaster?’ Tips On Fighting Period Stigma (Plus A Zine!)

That’s the question that researcher Inga Winkler of Columbia University asks. She shares advice on how to overcome feelings of shame and embarrassment about menstruation.

How Herd Immunity Works — And What Stands In Its Way

Scientists say the pandemic will only end in the U.S. when we achieve what’s called herd immunity. Play with our simulations to see how immunity can stop an outbreak in its tracks.

Hospitals In Austin Are Running Out Of Water, Forcing Some To Transfer Patients

Patients and families at a children’s hospital are being asked to not take showers, KUT reports. They were also told the toilets can’t flush, and staff are changing linens only as needed.

Vaccinating Homeless Patients Against COVID-19: ‘All Bets Are Off’

A community health center is now immunizing the local homeless population. But vaccination logistics, already complex, are compounded by the additional barriers in communication and transportation.