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You've probably heard of the credentials M.D. and R.N., and maybe N.P. The people using those letters are doctors, registered nurses and nurse practitioners. But what about PSC.D or D.PSc? Those letters refer to someone who practices pastoral medicine – or "Bible-based" health care. It's a relatively new title being used by some alternative health practitioners. The Texas-based Pastoral Medical Association gives out "pastoral provider licenses" in all 50 states and 30 countries. Some providers call themselves doctors of pastoral medicine. But these licenses are not medical degrees. That has watchdog organizations concerned that some patients may not understand what this certification really means. (Silverman, 4/25)

Paying doctors to better coordinate care for Medicare beneficiaries in Arkansas and seven other states helped hold down the cost of patients' medical care over a two-year period, although the savings didn't fully offset the cost of the extra payments, a report found. Still, the authors of the report by Mathematica Policy Research said the Comprehensive Primary Care Initiative's effect on medical expenses was bigger than they expected. (Davis, 4/24)

The Department of Health Services projects it will save at least $300 million over the next six years with an overhaul of Wisconsin's long-term care programs, according to an agency document released Friday. (Godar, 4/22)

Vaccination rates in Florida schools are at their lowest levels in a decade, the Florida Department of Health reports. (Solochek, 4/22)

Owners of assisted-living facilities are lobbying lawmakers for authority to provide several highly sought medical services — a campaign that is sparking concern among patient advocates and dividing the industry. (Lazar, 4/25)

On that December evening, Shaun Conley walked through the door of his pretty brick house in The Woodlands, scooping up kids as they ran to him. His smile stayed bright through dinner, through baths and story time, never once betraying the churn in his gut. (Deam, 4/24)

When Dr. Benjamin Danielson reported for work during his second week as medical director of the Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic in Seattle’s Central District, the formidable woman then in charge of the clinic announced they’d be taking a tour. (Kelleher, 4/25)

The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services has announced updated drinking water well test results for the water contaminant PFOA in Southern New Hampshire. So far, the state has tested over 350 wells, mostly within a 1.5 mile radius of the Saint-Gobain performance plastics plant. Of those, 52 private wells have tested above the state’s threshold of concern: which is 100 parts per trillion of the contaminant. The well with the highest concentration came in at 1600 parts per trillion. So far, these wells are located in Merrimack and Litchfield, with one Manchester well testing above the threshold. (Corwin, 4/22)

Seattle Public Utilities this weekend is testing the water from a handful of homes it suspects might have so-called gooseneck fittings between the water main and the house — and the results expected next week could determine if the utility has a lead problem. (Mapes, 4/24)

The cheapest and easiest protection: If water has been sitting in the pipes for six hours or longer, let it run for two minutes before drinking or cooking. (4/22)

Supporters of legalizing marijuana for medical use in Missouri now have only one option this year – the ballot box. That comes after the state House last week defeated House Bill 2213. In its original form, the measure would have allowed for medical cannabis centers in Missouri, which would have sold medical cannabis to patients with a "debilitating medical condition." (Griffin, 4/24)