Simple steps like changing pronouns on intake forms can make a big difference, while other clinics are increasing outreach and services to the LGBTQ community.
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 quiet decision, Michigan continues Medicaid coverage of gender changes
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s administration OKs coverage of hormone replacement, breast removal and other procedures. Critics say taxpayers shouldn’t fund such care.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
New plans for Michigan psychiatric facility raise more concerns about care
Mental health advocates say a decision to keep a Caro psychiatric hospital open doesn’t improve Michigan’s mental health system.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Study: Untreated mental illness, substance abuse ‘staggering’ in Michigan
The analysis highlights over 1.1 million instances of undiagnosed anxiety, depression and substance abuse in Michigan and a critical shortage of mental-health workers and treatment facilities, particularly in rural northern Michigan.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Alzheimer’s in Michigan: The coming storm
Initiatives to address the looming Alzheimer’s crisis can make a difference, particularly in a state like Michigan, which has an aging population and a dearth of physicians and health workers specializing in senior care.
Experts say aging baby boomers will put rising stress on the health care system and more than a half-million caregivers. One expert warns: “Michigan is not ready for this.”
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
How Michigan can prepare for the coming Alzheimer’s crisis
Initiatives to address the looming Alzheimer’s crisis can make a difference, particularly in a state like Michigan, which has an aging population and a dearth of physicians and health workers specializing in senior care
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
U-M study finds surprising abusers of opioids: new mothers. The fix is easy.
A University of Michigan study of national data finds that 1 in 100 new moms or more kept refilling prescriptions long after babies arrived.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
After three student suicides, one Michigan school district fights back
Following a year of unrelenting grief in rural Cedar Springs, the district resolved to find ways to identify stress before students fall into crisis. There are signs the effort is beginning to make a difference.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
A Michigan mother finds solace in schools’ response after son’s suicide
“This could happen to any family,” the west Michigan mom said, nearly four years after her son took his life just before his senior year of high school.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Rural Michigan needs doctors. Paying their debts may be an answer
Lawmakers eye expansion of program that pays student debt of medical professionals who practice in underserved areas, as the Michigan doctor shortage intensifies.