Health

Former New York Governor Andrew M. Cuomo is set to testify publicly before a congressional committee on September 10 to answer questions about the high number of deaths in New York nursing homes during the COVID-19 outbreak. The announcement was made by the House Special Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic. Cuomo, who previously testified in a private session to the Republican-dominated panel, will now participate in a public hearing. This session aims to examine decisions made under his administration that likely impacted the well-being of thousands of people during the height of the pandemic. Rep. Brad Wenstrup, a Republican from…

A recently launched awareness campaign in Burlington, Vermont, challenges traditional views of addiction with a powerful message displayed on an airport walkway: “Addiction is not a choice. It is a disease that can affect anyone.” The initiative seeks to change public perceptions and promote a more compassionate approach to those struggling with addiction. For many years, the medical community has recognized addiction as a chronic brain disease, but this perspective has struggled to gain widespread acceptance. The general public often views addiction through the lens of personal responsibility, influencing how drug use policies and sanctions are structured. Recent trends show…

Health researchers often scrutinize various medical treatments to determine their effectiveness, especially for older adults. One noteworthy study, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, examined the impact of dialysis on older patients with kidney failure, revealing mixed results. The study focused on more than 20,000 veterans, with an average age of 78, and used a simulated trial to explore survival outcomes. The results indicated that starting dialysis immediately after diagnosis only marginally extended life expectancy by about 77 days over three years compared to those who never received dialysis. Georgia Outlaw, a 77-year-old retiree from Williamston, North Carolina, chose…

In a surprising display of conflicting policies, North Carolina has taken a two-pronged approach to obesity medications. While the state has expanded Medicaid coverage for these drugs, its employees have seen their coverage terminated. The decision highlights the complex interplay between affordability, access, and the growing recognition of obesity as a serious health condition. Medicaid Expansion Effective August 1, 2024, North Carolina’s Medicaid program began covering obesity-management medications for beneficiaries ages 12 and older. This decision reflects a growing understanding of the significant health risks associated with obesity and the potential benefits of these medications. By expanding coverage, North Carolina…