Michigan’s decision to inoculate seniors first appears to have worked. That provides optimism that wider access to the vaccine could get the pandemic under control.
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.
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Help on way in Michigan, as 4M COVID vaccines expected by April, Congress told
Executives from three pharmaceutical companies told Congress on Tuesday that they are boosting production and could double distribution of vaccines in the next five weeks.
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Michigan’s child welfare system is improving, but its leaders just left
As Michigan nears the end of more than a decade of federal oversight, two people credited with helping transform the troubled system recently left office, one of them under mysterious circumstances.
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Frustrations mount as COVID vaccine more available in some parts of Michigan
Supplies can vary widely in neighboring counties because Michigan is using a complicated formula for distributing vaccines. That’s left some seniors frustrated, but Michigan officials say help is on the way.
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How do I get a COVID vaccine in Michigan? Tips to boost chances for seniors
Two months since Michigan administered the first shot, the pace of vaccines is accelerating, but frustrations remain. Here are some strategies to ensure seniors can get a shot.
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Five ways to open Michigan nursing homes for visits during COVID
A few policy tweaks could help more Michigan nursing homes safely reopen to visitors during the pandemic. Loved ones can also play a role by asking the right questions.
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Hugging stations: How some Michigan nursing homes fight despair amid COVID
Senior care facilities across much of Michigan can now resume indoor visits, yet few appear to be doing so. We highlight places applying DIY creativity to bring lonely residents face to face with those they love.
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Michigan sending COVID vaccines to low-income clinics to improve equity
In addition, Michigan health officials say the state will provide hard-to-get coronavirus vaccines to health providers who “are removing barriers to access” for the most vulnerable, who are often left behind by the healthcare system
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Despite disparities, Michigan is not gathering race data on COVID vaccines
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer vowed to combat racial disparities as the pandemic tore through Michigan last year. A member of her COVID task force calls the state’s failure to collect racial data “almost criminal.” State officials say they’re working on it.
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Michigan can’t fill mental health jobs amid COVID. These ideas could help.
From psychiatrists to counselors to direct care workers, health agencies are unable to fill jobs as depression and substance abuse cases increase. Some state and federal programs could help nudge more doctors and therapists to underserved regions of the state.