News 2011
Alternatives To Mandating Insurance? Maybe
From Kaiser Health News
Both supporters and opponents of the health overhaul law routinely refer to the requirement that most people get health insurance or pay a penalty as the measure's "linchpin."
But is it?
Not everyone thinks so.
Read more: From KHN: Alternatives To Mandating Insurance? Maybe
Health Programs On The Chopping Block As States Gird For Drop In Federal Aid
From Kaiser Health News
Lisa Huff says the state-funded Disability Lifeline program in Washington state has lived up to its name, helping her get counseling for depression, treatment for diabetes and support for her ultimate goal: getting a job.
But now the program for low-income, temporarily disabled residents is one of many on the chopping block in Washington, where lawmakers face stark choices in closing a projected shortfall of $4.6 billion in their next two-year budget, 2011-2013.
Read more: KHN: Health Programs On The Chopping Block As States Gird For Drop In Federal Aid
EDITORIAL
Who Do You Belong To?
This month is Black History Month--or as a friend of mine says, for those of us who write or speak on Black issues, “Negro Employment Month.” But in all seriousness, all the awareness and marketing aside, I’m not sure how much Black history is actually read, taught or learned during this month, or any other month. That’s too bad, because knowing Black history is critically important for the health and wellbeing of Black people and contributes to a more robust and rounded understanding of the American experience for all her citizens. If we don't know where we come from, how can we determine where we want to go, or know, once we arrive, that it is not the same place that we left?
Caregivers Must Balance Their Loved Ones' Health Needs With Their Own
Caregiving is nothing new to the African American community. In fact, Black Americans are more likely than other racial and ethnic groups to serve in caregiving roles, according to David Schulbaum, the director of marketing and business development for the Kensington, Md.-based National Family Caregivers Association. Though a good caregiver can go a long way toward making life easier for those with HIV and AIDS, there are certain pitfalls that caregivers can succumb to if they don't take steps to protect their own health and well-being.
Read more: Caregivers Must Balance Their Loved Ones' Health Needs With Their Own
4 Reasons I Publicly Lead by Example in the Fight to End HIV/AIDS
People who are HIV positive ask me all the time, “How do I get involved in the fight against HIV?” When I ask them, “Are you open about your HIV status?” they usually answer no--and that is fine.
Read more: 4 Reasons I Publicly Lead by Example in the Fight to End HIV/AIDS