Morning Briefing
Summaries of health policy coverage from major news organizations
Viewpoints: Ohio Is Next State To Make Big Decision On Abortion Rights; Does NyQuil Work Anymore?
By Nov. 7, my fellow Ohioans will cast votes on Issue 1, a ballot initiative that would secure access to reproductive health care, including abortion. It is the only statewide election specifically about reproductive rights in 2023. Whichever way the vote goes, both sides of the debate are likely to draw lessons about abortion-related strategy for next year, when several more ballot initiatives are expected. (David N. Hackney, 11/5)
With cold and flu season ramping up, you may soon be heading to the pharmacy in search of relief. When you do, you might remember that Sudafed has long been considered an effective decongestant. So you grab a box of oral decongestant that says Sudafed. You may or may not notice that the brand name is now followed by two letters: PE. (F.D. Flam, 11/4)
I felt immense sadness at Ms. Retton’s predicaments — both health and financial. I was relieved to hear that she is better on both fronts, leaving the hospital and reportedly raising over $400,000 for her hospital bill. But, because I’m a health policy wonk, I also thought: How can America’s Sweetheart be uninsured? (Elena Marks, 11/4)
The marketing of healthcare frequently requires a much different strategy and level of gamesmanship. In addition to potentially difficult subject matters, the different audiences of consumer and industry players can make it a challenge to develop the right message and find the best outlet for a campaign. (Mary Ellen Podmolik, 11/6)
My siblings and I are just a few of the estimated 38 million unpaid caregivers in the United States. We are part of a larger American and global cohort affected by the dramatic aging of the population, the inadequate patchwork of public and private services, and modern migration patterns driven by caregiving. (Gemma Bulos, 11/5)
Fortunately for me, Damar, when I experienced a cardiac arrest on the football field, I immediately received lifesaving CPR from an athletic trainer before being rushed to the hospital. Every day since then − in reality, often several times a day − I recognize and appreciate that I was one of the lucky few. (Damar Hamlin and Nancy Brown, 11/5)
Last month saw one of the deadliest weeks America has seen in a long time. Eighteen people were gunned down in Lewiston, Maine. The following weekend, 12 more mass shootings left at least 11 people dead and scores more injured. Yet, as our nation grieves the loss of so much life, the US Supreme Court could be poised to make it even easier for troubled people to access guns. On November 7, justices will hear United States v. Rahimi, a case that will decide if governments can continue to prevent those accused of domestic violence from possessing firearms. (Shannon Watts, 11/6)