Connecticut took a big step this week toward creating a network to steer people toward the best health care providers. An added bonus: it will also save the state millions over the next two years.
Health
Stories about health care access and affordability in CT, as well as abortion, COVID, health equity and disparities, health systems and social determinants of health.
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Posted inHealth
Lamont exploring ban on vaping products as part of regional strategy
Gov. Ned Lamont is exploring a ban on flavored vaping products as part of a multi-state effort to regulate e-cigarettes and recreational marijuana use.
Posted inHealth
State leaders urge caution as second Connecticut resident dies of EEE
An Old Lyme resident died of Eastern Equine Encephalitis, a rare but serious illness caused by mosquito bites.
Posted inTransportation
Cuomo is coming to talk about regionalism, pot and transportation
The governors of Connecticut and New York share an interest in regionalism.
Posted inHealth
Five things to know about the rise in vaping illnesses
A surge of vaping-related illnesses has sent hundreds of people to hospitals across the country, including 11 in CT, and resulted in seven deaths. So what’s being done about it?
Posted inHealth
Longtime crusader against Oxycontin begins to see the fruits of her struggle
Barbara Van Rooyan’s son Patrick Stewart died at age 24 after taking an OxyContin pill. Patrick, who had also consumed a couple of beers, was opioid intolerant and suffered respiratory failure in his sleep. (Ana Venegas for KHN) Barbara Van Rooyan’s son Patrick Stewart died at age 24 after taking an OxyContin pill. Patrick, who […]
Posted inHealth
Lobbying war stalls Congress’ attempt to end ‘surprise medical bills’
Connecticut has a tough state law to protect residents from surprise medical bills, but not tough enough to protect everyone.
Posted inHealth
Lawmakers vow to introduce ban on flavored vaping products if federal effort stalls
Connecticut would be following New York and Michigan which have already enacted bans.
Posted inHealth
DPH commissioner finds her voice on immunizations
Gov. Ned Lamont promised Monday to take the lead on the repeal of religious exemptions for school-age vaccinations.
Posted inJustice
Purdue bankruptcy opens door for CT towns to weigh opioid deal
Some Connecticut cities and towns may still prefer to accept Purdue Pharma’s offer to settle suits stemming from the nation’s opioid crisis, even though Connecticut and some other states have rejected it.
Posted inHealth
Vapers seek relief from nicotine addiction in — wait for it — cigarettes
Some are turning to combustible cigarettes in a dangerous bid to lower their nicotine intake and get off their vapes.
Posted inHealth
Vaping by the numbers
Vaping has surged in the past two years, particularly among teenagers and young adults. More than 20% of high school students reported vaping in 2018 — almost twice the 2017 rate.
Posted inHealth
Insurance department approves smaller premium hikes for Anthem, ConnectiCare
State officials approved smaller rate hikes than those sought for policies on Connecticut’s health insurance exchange.
Posted inHealth
Fasano tries to keep nursing home issue in play
Senate Minority Leader Len Fasano, R-North Haven, volleyed back Friday at Gov. Ned Lamont’s offer of temporary relief to nine nursing homes.
Posted inHealth
Lamont, health commissioner will support repeal of state’s religious vaccine exemption
Their support follows the release of data showing a recent 25% spike in the number of students claiming the exemption.