Michigan now covers more than double the portion of the population it did 30 years ago. Is that growth unchecked, or just enough to cover the most vulnerable?
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
Measles, whooping cough surge in Michigan amid falling vaccination rates
Michigan is experiencing a rise in measles and whooping cough due to declining childhood vaccination rates and health officials are sounding alarms.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Michigan joins six other states with measles outbreaks. What to know
The state has seven confirmed measles cases as of Thursday, including three linked cases in Montcalm County.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Michigan lawmakers want to stop people from using SNAP benefits to buy pop
State Rep. Brad Paquette, R-Niles, introduced a bill to ban the purchase of soda pop with SNAP benefits, citing concerns over nutrition and taxpayer spending.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Where to find help for Michigan seniors. A guide for navigating the maze
Michigan’s network of senior services can be hard to navigate. The first step is knowing who to call first.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Crush of retirees a crisis in Michigan. State unprepared to meet their needs
Michigan spends more than many states and gets less in return on services for seniors, who face long waits for care, transportation gaps and bureaucracy that pushes them to nursing homes. The problems will only get worse.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Whitmer proposes more money for Michigan's aging crisis. Is it enough?
Michigan underfunds services for the elderly compared to other states. That’s a red flag for a state with a fast-aging population.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Experts: Michigan lawmakers should make 6 fixes to improve senior care
Lawmakers need to streamline bureaucracy, change policies and focus on caregiving to prepare for a gray wave that is gripping Michigan.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
How to plan for aging in Michigan or take care of others: What to know
The first members of Generation X — the cohort of Michiganders born between 1965 and 1980 — turn 60 this year. Caregiving duties are here. Retirement is in sight. Here’s how to prepare.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Unlocking the secrets of Michigan’s ‘superagers,’ who defy golden years
At the University of Michigan, research is underway that asks if ‘superagers’ have special brains that keep them active and sharp well into their senior years. Or does a superager’s insistence on staying active protect their brain?