As it stands now, Michigan children can buy kratom, a substance that some say is dangerous. Lawmakers are considering regulating it.
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
U-M study: 1 in 5 young adults using marijuana, alcohol to fall asleep
A University of Michigan study found that about 22% of young adults use cannabis, alcohol or both to help them fall asleep. Experts warn that the habit can lead to dependency and poorer sleep quality, though some advocates argue cannabis may offer benefits when used responsibly.
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Michigan health care woes: Insurers leaving, rates rising, subsidies in limbo
Regulators say some providers are leaving the state and dropping coverage in the individual market amid major shifts in health care policy. Meantime, expect to pay more.
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Michigan cuts off weight-loss drugs for most Medicaid patients, saving $240M
The $81 billion state budget imposes new restrictions on many GLP-1 drugs, requiring them to be used only for the ‘morbidly obese’
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Smoking, vapes spark fire danger in Michigan
Smoking-related fires remain a leading cause of fire deaths in Michigan, with many linked to indoor smoking and medical oxygen use. Officials are urging residents to adopt smoke-free housing and handle e-cigarettes safely to prevent battery-related fires.
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Fluoride wars spark raucous debate over water treatment in Michigan county
After decades of fluoridating drinking water to improve public health, some communities are wavering on the practice. In St. Clair County, the medical director is mirroring Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s efforts against fluoridation.
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Affordable Care Act subsidies and US shutdown: What’s at stake in Michigan
Republicans and Democrats in Congress are divided on a government spending plan, while a decision to extend the Affordable Care Act’s enhanced premium tax credits remains in limbo. Here’s what that means for Michigan.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Michigan cash aid program for moms and babies gets $270 million in new budget
The additional funding will allow Rx Kids to expand in more low-income communities and reach about 100,000 babies over the next few years.
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Here’s how to find help coping with the church shooting in Grand Blanc
Here are some resources to help families, veterans and others.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
U-M study: Marijuana vapes increasingly popular among teens
Marijuana vaping is becoming more popular among Michigan teens, according to new University of Michigan survey data. That’s raised health concerns and pushed schools to seek stricter policies.