Made from a tree in Southeast Asia, kratom is promoted for pain relief and as an energy booster. Some say it helps kick opioid addiction. But health officials warn of another, more dangerous side.
Michigan Health Watch
In-depth reporting on the intersection between public policy and important health topics ‒ such as insurance coverage, hospital admissions, opioid abuse, access to care, medical research and the business of health care ‒ that impact nearly every Michigan resident.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Sheriff’s plea on mentally ill prisoner reveals gap in Michigan treatment
An Upper Peninsula sheriff went to Facebook to get state help for a delusional man in his jail. His post highlights severe shortages in the state for violent or severely mentally ill people caught up in the criminal justice system.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
5th Michigan person being tested for coronavirus had traveled to China
The Oakland County resident had a travel history to China, said a state health department spokeswoman, who added that the person was not stopped or screened at Detroit Metro airport.
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The first line of defense against coronavirus: Try soap, not a mask
As health officials marshal resources to contain a new coronavirus, which hasn’t hit Michigan, there are simple steps anyone can take to reduce risks. You don’t need special equipment.
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For new Michigan moms with postpartum depression, where to turn for help
Postpartum depression afflicts about one in seven moms. Diagnosis and treatment lag, especially among low-income, African-American and Latino mothers. Here’s a primer on where to turn.
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Treating mothers’ trauma as a way to prevent youth violence
SURE Moms focuses on an area less often targeted by anti-violence efforts. It tries to lower juvenile crime and recidivism by providing counseling and support to the mothers of kids linked to much of the area’s violence. It’s not about what happens on the street, but what happens in the home.
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As Michigan braces for coronavirus, H1N1 quietly makes a comeback
A small lab at the University of Michigan is one of five U.S. sites that monitor influenza viruses to gauge vaccine effectiveness. The lab also is monitoring coronavirus developments as part of a federal effort.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s health budget is heavy on prevention
Addressing everyday social determinants today — from food security to postpartum care to youngsters’ teeth — will save more in the long run, says Michigan’s Health and Human Services director.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
A steady job can give you health coverage, but can health coverage help you work?
Researchers say those covered by Michigan’s expanded Medicaid plan saw a 6 percent boost in jobs and school in a single year, outpacing job growth in general population.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Michigan Legislature weighs dropping high school health, gym requirements
Republicans say reducing graduation requirements gives flexibility to students who want to work after high school. Critics say health and gym are critical as teen levels of anxiety, STDs and obesity rise.