Experts already recognize that treating severe mental illness among young people is a problem in the state. But kids showing signs of pandemic-related isolation, depression and other conditions also struggle to find help.
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
Michigan auditor general vows ‘comprehensive’ review of nursing home deaths
The review, revealed Wednesday, follows months of scrutiny by GOP legislators, who have questioned whether seniors were put in harm’s way under an early pandemic policy from Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer that created regional “hubs” for infected patients.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Is the Michigan vaccine lottery working? Depends how you define success.
Since Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced a $5 million lottery pool for those getting the COVID-19 vaccine, she’s touted that 1 million have signed up for the lottery — but the state cannot say if it’s luring more people to the shots. Several local health officials say it hasn’t.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Hope or hype? Costly new Alzheimer’s drug creates controversy
Aduhelm is the first new drug to attack the most dreaded disease among older Americans. But its cost is exorbitant. Worse, it may not work. In the absence of an alternative, though, some say that might be okay.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
A child mental-health fix takes early action, more help. Here are 7 ideas.
More psychologists and social workers in schools. Early screening. Loan forgiveness for child psychiatrists serving rural areas. Fixing a strained system will take time. But COVID stimulus funds can speed up efforts across the Midwest.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Michigan hopes $5 million vaccine lottery inspires more people to get shots
Prizes like a college scholarship and $2 million jackpot will be awarded by Aug. 4 to anyone vaccinated, as long as they register for the chance to win. It’s an attempt to spur more vaccinations, which have slowed since spring.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Emergency rooms confront ‘tidal wave of sadness’ among young patients
Hospital ERs are being upended by a surge of children and adolescents in mental distress during COVID. Staff bring in snacks or queue up Netflix to keep them occupied as they seek beds in psychiatric centers. Private insurance can make the task harder.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Delta variant is increasing in Michigan, prompting coronavirus surge fears
The Delta variant that has spiked cases in India, the United Kingdom and Asia is spreading in Michigan, detected this week in 15 counties, up from six counties just two weeks ago.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Mental health crisis: Children at breaking point during COVID
Across the Midwest, there are not nearly enough psychiatrists, therapists or direct-care staff to treat a rising tide of young people spiraling into crisis. For these families, the strain can seem unbearable.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Henry Ford Health System to require workers to get COVID-19 vaccine
Henry Ford Health System is to become the first in Michigan to require employees, contractors, students and volunteers to get the COVID-19 vaccine.