Gov. Gretchen Whitmer spared a psychiatric hospital whose closure would have devastated the Thumb. But long waiting lists persist statewide, and the hospital’s problems remain.
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
In the spring, Gov. Whitmer praised an opioid clinic. In the fall, a veto.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s vetoes in the Michigan budget included funds for Andy’s Place, an opioid recovery project near Jackson that she endorsed months ago. The planned facility is in the district of Republican budget and political foe Mike Shirkey.
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Bad weather, resident concerns hamper Michigan’s efforts to spray for EEE virus
As Michigan reports its fourth death from Eastern equine encephalitis, pilots charged with spraying pesticides are grounded by weather, and state officials field calls from concerned citizens.
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Michigan counselors fighting ban on right to diagnose, give psychotherapy
Licensed counselors fear that new regulations could put them out of business. Psychologists have long argued that counselors need more training to perform more serious mental health work. A hearing takes place Friday.
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Michigan’s ban on flavored vaping products with nicotine now in full force
Court ruling thrusts into doubt the future of Michigan’s e-cigarette industry and millions in taxes. Sales of products are punishable for jail time, fines.
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Seeking a cure: The quest to save the Midwest’s rural hospitals
Small rural hospitals are getting squeezed by competition and market forces, forcing painful consolidations, sales and closures. Nationwide, 113 rural hospitals have closed in less than a decade.
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In Ironwood, a tiny hospital merged to save itself. Despite fears, it thrived.
For Aspirus Ironwood Hospital, in a sparsely populated former mining region in remote Michigan, merger points to a brighter future.
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Rural hospitals in Michigan face a dilemma: Merge or not?
Rising fiscal challenges force independent Michigan hospitals to seek alliances. They can save the hospitals, but some critics ask at what cost.
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Michigan to spray 14 counties to combat deadly EEE mosquito virus
At a cost of $1.5 million or more, low-flying aircraft will spray 2.5 miles around each confirmed EEE case across southwest Michigan and beyond.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Budget fight looms over changes in Medicaid mental health in Michigan
Mental health advocates want Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to veto a plan they say threatens care for 300,000 Medicaid patients. Supporters say the plan safely integrates mental and physical health care for low-income patients.