In emotional testimony, the head of a group advising lawmakers on the drug crisis says state officials are thwarting its efforts. Transparency concerns follow complaints local governments aren’t moving fast enough.
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.
After high-profile feud, Ottawa County health leader to stay put
For more than a year, Ottawa County Health Officer Adeline Hambley and county commissioners — led by Ottawa Impact — have been locked in a legal battle that began with COVID-era mask mandates.
Michigan has first measles case since 2019 as cases climb nationwide
Michigan has detected a first case of measles this year, as the vaccination rates against the highly infectious, airborne disease drop.
Meth makes a comeback in Michigan, even as drug fight focuses on opioids
New data confirms law enforcement suspicions about a surge in meth and cocaine. Michigan has spent millions to treat opioids, but treatments don’t work the same for meth.
Rescue services a challenge for Michigan's rural communities
The biggest obstacle for fire and rescue stations in rural areas is the distance between someone in need and the station.
COVID-positive? Five-day isolation still recommended in Michigan
Amid conflicting reports about CDC guidelines and loosening standards in other states, Michigan’s recommendation remains to stay home for five days with positive tests.
Deadly nationwide listeria contamination impacts salad kits sold in Michigan
Rizo-López Foods, Inc. recalled several dairy products including queso fresco, cotija and oaxaca after the life-threatening bacteria Listeria was found in the products.
MSU shooting, one year later: What science says about trauma and healing
On a day of conflicting feelings from survivors, growing research shows how the brain reacts to ‘fight-or-flight’ instincts that can manifest themselves in guilt, anxiety and even gratitude.
See how much your Michigan community will get in opioid settlement funds
Michigan is receiving about $1.5 billion over 18 years, with about $725 million going to cities and counties. Some will receive a larger share of opioid settlement, based on how hard they’ve been hit by the crisis.
As opioid deaths mount, Michigan governments sit on millions for intervention
A landmark lawsuit settlement will pour $1.5 billion into Michigan, almost half of it directly to communities. But local governments have been slow to spend the money, and transparency questions dog efforts to fight the drug scourge.