The federal 340B program was meant to reduce drug costs for providers, allowing them, in turn, to reduce the cost of care for patients. That can include lower prescription prices. But, according to some critics, it’s lining the budgets of big hospital systems. Others argue it’s keeping the little guys afloat.
Robin Erb
Robin Erb covers health care and aging for Bridge Michigan, focusing on a state that is aging faster than most. She has led investigations tracking opioid settlement money and health care worker shortages, and previously spent six years at the Detroit Free Press covering the Affordable Care Act and Michigan's Medicaid expansion. She holds a master's degree from Lourdes University in Toledo.
Robin and her husband raised two children in southeast Michigan — and have failed miserably at training their Beagle-Bassets.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Michigan medical debts, anger soar as hospitals spend billions on expansions
In a single generation, Michigan’s health care has gotten more consolidated, complicated and costly for nearly everyone, even the well-insured.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Michigan lawmakers target medical debt, drug costs and a surprising fee
Health care costs remain among the biggest concerns for Michigan voters. Lawmakers are responding.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Psychedelics move into the spotlight. What to know in Michigan
Efforts in Michigan to decriminalize psychedelic drugs may have gotten a boost last month when the Trump administration ordered fast-tracked research into their potential for treatment for mental health issues, including veterans’ PTSD.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Nursing home critics demand Michigan lawmakers protect residents
The calls for change follow a Bridge Michigan investigation that documented nearly 6,000 cases of abuse and three dozen deaths in the past four years.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
State lowers vaccine age recommendation in SE Michigan amid measles outbreak
Children as young as 6 months should get vaccinated against measles, state health experts advise, as measles cases spill into a second Michigan county.
Posted inMichigan Government, Michigan Health Watch
Sparing 8,000 doctors, Michigan lawmakers reach medical compact deal
After months of gridlock, Michigan lawmakers say they finally have a deal to renew an interstate medical compact. Without it, 8,000 doctors could lose their ability to practice across state lines.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Michigan can ease doctor shortage by raising pay for primary care, group says
The Michigan State Medical Society has weighed in with a 14-point plan to address health care provider shortages that are leading to long waits and higher costs.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan synagogue attack: FBI investigating as ‘targeted act of violence’
The suspect is dead and no congregants were injured after an attacker drove a vehicle into a metro Detroit synagogue and was confronted by security officers on Thursday afternoon, according to authorities.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Amid Temple Israel horror, a small act of kindness — and pizza in Michigan
As emergency vehicles screamed past and the Soul Cafe went into lockdown, staff continued to do what they know: bake and serve.