Michigan’s new three-digit hotline has produced a jump in calls by people in mental health distress since it began last summer. But advocates say the next step – continued treatment for those callers – is fraught with delays because of a shortage of trained professionals.
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
COVID variant XBB.1.5 may be poised to sweep Michigan: What to know
The ‘most transmissible variant’ yet has hit the Northeast and appears headed to Michigan. Doctors say it evades immunity, but much remains unknown about the latest strain.
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COVID-19 in 2022: Deaths fall, but Michigan had 5th most in US
The virus, now a part of daily life, kills far fewer in Michigan in 2022 but remains the No. 3 cause of death in the state.
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ER or urgent care? As respiratory ailments pound Michigan, who do you call?
Misery is at its worst in the still of the night, when doctor offices are closed. There are sure signs for when to call 911 or hit the ER, and when urgent care of merely a call to your doctor is enough.
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Here’s where to get free COVID test, treatment before holidays
The so-called ‘tripledemic’ is prompting a whole host of health concerns as the holidays near. Here’s how to prepare.
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As flu slams Michigan, COVID-19 hospitalizations rise as well
After virtually vanishing amid the pandemic, influenza is back big time. Hospitals are handled the uptick so far, but White House warns of winter COVID surge.
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U-M hospital system to acquire Sparrow Health in latest Michigan merger
Lansing-based Sparrow is to become part of Michigan Medicine by next summer, offering midstate market share to U-M Health and better financial footing to Sparrow.
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Michigan Democrats eye other abortion law changes as Prop 3 set to take effect
Proponents of a Michigan constitutional protections for abortion vowed existing limits remain in place. That doesn’t preclude a Democrat-led Legislature from eventually changing them.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Michigan hospitals lost 1,700 beds from staff shortages, seek more money
Over the past year, healthcare is one of many industries eyeballing federal relief dollars. Michigan hospital leaders say funds will bolster staff and protect health care and local economies.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Michigan takes steps to boost bed capacity for kids in mental health crisis
Michigan has lost hundreds of mental health treatment beds for kids in the juvenile justice and foster care systems due to staff shortages. Officials hope to boost staffing by offering steadier funding to residential treatment centers.