The hottest Health Policy Substack posts right now

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Fauci is pardoned

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts • 311 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Government Public Policy Health Policy
  1. Biden's last pardons included Anthony Fauci, which raises questions about his past actions related to pandemic research.
  2. Fauci might face consequences for his alleged past actions, especially if questioned again about funding controversial research.
  3. His handling of the pandemic was criticized, as he oversimplified responses and made many incorrect recommendations that impacted public health and schools.

RFK Jr. Hearings

Your Local Epidemiologist • 2058 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy Public Health Vaccination Debate Government oversight
  1. RFK Jr. showed he wasn't well-prepared for the hearings, struggling with basic healthcare facts and confusing important programs like Medicaid and Medicare.
  2. He often ignored solid scientific evidence, calling for more data on topics like vaccine safety, despite clear proof already available.
  3. RFK Jr. made controversial statements that could harm specific groups, like suggesting different vaccine schedules based on race and downplaying mental illness stigma.

The Killing of Brian Thompson

The Chris Hedges Report • 719 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy Insurance Economic Impact Corporate Accountability Public Health
  1. The CEO of UnitedHealthcare, Brian Thompson, was recently killed, sparking questions about possible motives related to healthcare policies and insurance denials.
  2. In the U.S., healthcare spending is highest among wealthy countries, but health outcomes are among the worst, with many people facing financial ruin due to medical bills.
  3. The business practices of health insurance companies are criticized for prioritizing profits over patient care, which can lead to unnecessary suffering and death.

Wait a Minute. Do They Actually Want a Bird Flu Pandemic? A Look at the Preparations.

OK Doomer • 238 implied HN points • 18 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Pandemics Government Response Disease Prevention Health Policy
  1. Governments seem to be unprepared for the bird flu crisis, even though the situation is serious and worsening. There's a belief that they are choosing not to act effectively.
  2. There's a concern that some officials might actually want a new pandemic. This is based on perceived intentions to benefit from chaos in the economy.
  3. Pressure is mounting on leaders to take the bird flu threat seriously, but so far, real actions are lacking, pointing to a failure to protect public health.

Try This at Home: The World's Simplest Germ Killer

OK Doomer • 24 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccines Disease Prevention Health Policy Medical Ethics
  1. Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is a natural germ killer that our bodies already produce to fight germs. It's similar to bleach but safe for use.
  2. There is a growing movement against vaccines in some states, with groups pushing for bans. This comes at a critical time for vaccine development.
  3. Using safe, effective germ-killing methods at home can be important, especially in light of public health concerns and vaccine hesitancy.
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Fifteen Years Ago Today I Became a Whistleblower

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 1039 implied HN points • 24 Jun 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy Whistleblowing Insurance Industry Government reform Political Advocacy
  1. Becoming a whistleblower can be a big, brave step. It means standing up for what's right, even when it could hurt your career.
  2. Working in healthcare, some companies mislead the public and lawmakers. This can lead to serious consequences, like denying care to patients who need it.
  3. Transparency and honesty are vital in healthcare. Sharing insider knowledge can help push for important reforms and make the system better for everyone.

Anthony Fauci Isn't Out Of The Woods Yet, Thanks To New State Investigations

Unmasked • 54 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy Public Health Government Accountability Pandemic Management Political Commentary
  1. Anthony Fauci has admitted to lying during the COVID pandemic, suggesting he didn't always tell the truth about key issues.
  2. There are ongoing investigations that could still hold Fauci accountable despite any pardons he might receive.
  3. The discussion includes concerns about his decisions on public health measures, like lockdowns and vaccine mandates, which many feel were misleading.

URGENT: The FDA will reject future Covid jabs for healthy people under 65 without big new clinical trials proving they work

Unreported Truths • 57 implied HN points • 20 May 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccination FDA Regulations Chronic Conditions Health Policy
  1. The FDA now requires new clinical trials to approve Covid vaccines for healthy people under 65. This means companies must prove the vaccines are effective before they can be used.
  2. Many adults may still qualify for boosters because of loose CDC guidelines on who is at risk for severe Covid. This could allow a lot of people to continue getting the vaccine even with new rules.
  3. While this is a step towards more safety with mRNA vaccines, the rules aren’t strict enough to significantly change access for most healthy adults.

We are likely at peak season

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1384 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Epidemiology Vaccination Infectious Diseases Health Policy
  1. Right now, many people are getting sick, and it seems like we are in the peak season for respiratory illnesses. The usual patterns we see are pretty much the same as before the pandemic.
  2. Flu cases are very high but appear to be slowing down. However, we might still face more waves of flu with different strains hitting later in the winter.
  3. Covid-19 cases are increasing, but they are lower than in past winters. Vaccination and past infections have helped build immunity, which is why this winter seems milder.

The Zionists Kill Doctors in Gaza and Silence Them Here (w/ Rupa Marya) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 156 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights Health Policy International relations Public Health Activism
  1. Hospitals are supposed to be safe places during war, but the attacks on medical facilities in Gaza are a serious violation of international law. Medical workers and their facilities should always be protected.
  2. There is a troubling connection between the silencing of healthcare workers in the U.S. and the violence against them in Gaza. By keeping doctors quiet here, it allows for the continuation of harm abroad.
  3. The ongoing health crisis in Gaza, caused by lack of resources and intentional targeting, is creating a humanitarian disaster. Immediate aid and changes in policy are needed to support the health and life of Palestinian people.

Fauci Did It!

Disaffected Newsletter • 919 implied HN points • 09 Jun 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy Cultural Issues Pandemic response Legal issues Social Commentary
  1. People are quick to blame others for problems, like Fauci being blamed for the pandemic. But regular folks also played a part by not standing up for what’s right.
  2. There's a concern that cultural relativism is messing up society. For example, a court case showed how cultural excuses can sway justice, which isn't fair.
  3. The conversation touches on various social issues, like reactions to Pride Month and how some people are mocked for their choices. It's about how different views clash in today's world.

President Trump Establishes a MAHA Commission

Who is Robert Malone • 22 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy Public Health Executive orders Child Health
  1. President Trump created a new commission, called the MAHA Commission, to look into America's health issues, especially childhood diseases.
  2. The goal is to figure out why chronic illnesses are rising and to come up with a plan to make kids healthier.
  3. Many people don't trust the healthcare system, and this commission aims to restore that trust while addressing the health crisis in America.

Do red and processed meats cause cancer?

Unsettled Science • 840 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Nutrition Cancer Public Health Research Health Policy
  1. The World Health Organization says processed meats cause cancer, but only one type of cancer has been linked directly to them, which is colorectal cancer.
  2. The IARC's decision was based on a small number of studies, which raises questions about how strong the evidence really is.
  3. Many people reacted strongly to the news, fearing that all red meats are dangerous, but the evidence used may not support that broad conclusion.

Medicare Advantage's $64 Billion Supplemental Benefits Slush Fund

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 999 implied HN points • 28 May 24
🏥 Health Politics Medicare Health Policy Insurance Health Equity
  1. Medicare is spending around $64 billion on extra benefits for Medicare Advantage plans, like dental and vision care. But we don't really know if people are actually using these benefits.
  2. Many seniors are drawn to Medicare Advantage plans for these added perks, but some end up losing access to their preferred doctors. It's important to understand what you're giving up when switching plans.
  3. There's a growing call to improve how Medicare Advantage plans operate and to provide similar benefits to those in traditional Medicare. Everyone should have access to the same quality of care and benefits.

22 Public Health Accomplishments in 2024

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1472 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Epidemiology Health Policy Disease Prevention Health Education
  1. Opioid overdose deaths in the U.S. dropped thanks to programs that provide treatment and education on overdose prevention. This is a big win after many years of rising deaths.
  2. There was a 2% decline in sexually transmitted infections, showing that efforts to control and educate about these diseases are making a difference.
  3. Cervical cancer deaths are decreasing among young women, likely due to the success of the HPV vaccine. This suggests that vaccination is successfully protecting future generations.

The fluoride debate

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1979 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Epidemiology Health Policy Community health Dental Health
  1. Fluoride helps strengthen our teeth and prevents cavities, which is why it's in toothpaste and is often added to public water supplies.
  2. Fluoridated water has been effective in reducing tooth decay overall, especially in communities with less access to dental care.
  3. The safety of fluoride is based on careful dosage; while high levels can be harmful, the amount used in drinking water is considered safe for everyone.

Buckle up: Navigating the noise around routine vaccination

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1375 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination Public Health Epidemiology Health Communication Health Policy
  1. Vaccination has had a huge impact on public health, eradicating diseases like smallpox and reducing cases of polio and measles to near-zero with high vaccination rates.
  2. Most people still trust vaccines, with a significant percentage of parents ensuring their kids are vaccinated, despite the loud voices questioning vaccine safety.
  3. It's normal to have questions about vaccines, but it's important to seek answers from trusted experts to separate fact from fiction.

The Curious Case of Luigi Mangione

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 296 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Crime Law Public Safety Gun Control Health Policy
  1. Luigi Mangione was caught after a customer at McDonald's recognized him following the murder of UnitedHealthcare's CEO. It's surprising that someone like him could be involved in such a serious crime.
  2. He had a 3D-printed gun and a handwritten manifesto when he was arrested. This raises questions about his motives and planning.
  3. The case has turned people into amateur detectives as they tried to follow the story. It shows how we are often drawn into real-life mysteries.

Biden gives a Medal to Moderna and Pfizer - 10 reasons that was a bad idea

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts • 190 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Pharmaceutical industry Health Policy Government Accountability Public Health
  1. Awarding a medal to Moderna and Pfizer seems unfair because it ignores the dangers of other vaccines, and many people felt misled about vaccine risks.
  2. These companies have already made a lot of money from their products, so giving them a medal feels unnecessary and insulting.
  3. Some people suffered due to vaccine mandates and the actions of former officials. Recognizing these companies with a medal might send the wrong message.

Big Pharma Millions Behind Attacks On Trump’s FDA Nominee

Public • 419 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy Regulatory Affairs Political Commentary Pharmaceutical industry Public Health
  1. Dr. Marty Makary has been nominated by Trump to be the commissioner of the FDA. He has some controversial views that have stirred up discussions among experts.
  2. There are claims that attacks on Makary's nomination are backed by the pharmaceutical industry. This situation raises questions about conflicting interests in health policy.
  3. Makary defends other controversial figures, suggesting they have evolved in their views. However, this has led to further criticism from leading health experts.

The Press Is Beginning to Take Notice of How Health Insurers Are Raiding The Medicare Trust Fund

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 1019 implied HN points • 30 Apr 24
🏥 Health Politics Medicare Health Policy Insurance Public Health Regulation
  1. Health insurers are overcharging Medicare by about 22%, costing taxpayers a lot more than if seniors received care directly from traditional Medicare.
  2. Recent reports highlight how private Medicare Advantage plans have historically not saved money and often result in higher overall costs for the program.
  3. The media is beginning to spotlight the negative impacts of Medicare Advantage, leading to more scrutiny and awareness about how these plans operate.

Marty Makary: Is the First Good Pick for FDA commissioner in a long time

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts • 380 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy Media bias FDA Regulations Public Health COVID-19
  1. Marty Makary is seen as a strong candidate for FDA commissioner with a history of standing up against corporate interests in healthcare. He's known for questioning common government policies during COVID, advocating for decisions based on evidence.
  2. Media coverage tends to portray Marty negatively, often ignoring his valid criticisms of lockdowns and vaccine mandates. His positions centered on protecting the vulnerable and ensuring informed consent are highlighted.
  3. Marty has a reputation for being open-minded and thoughtful in his approach to medicine. He aims to improve healthcare systems and make them more accessible, which is appreciated by some of his colleagues.

The Pet Theory Economy

Nepetalactone Newsletter • 1965 implied HN points • 28 Jan 24
🔬 Science Genomics Virology Health Policy
  1. In the Pet Theory Economy, people defend and promote their theories as if their livelihoods depend on it, driven by the need for traffic and novelty.
  2. Challenging someone's theory is seen as interference with their ability to make a living, leading to a circular logic where blame is shifted.
  3. Focusing on various aspects of issues is valid; one should not be limited to a single perspective or group and should question narratives that feed into a narrow Pet Theory economy.

Duke health's 2025 policy would ban an 11 year old kid from visiting his sick or dying father

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts • 141 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Health Policy Medical Ethics Healthcare access Infectious Diseases
  1. Duke's new visitor policy can stop an 11-year-old from seeing a sick parent, which seems unfair. It's strange to think an age difference of just one year can change something so serious.
  2. The rules made by Duke don't seem to be based on solid evidence, making them feel illogical and hard to understand. A 13-year-old can visit, but not an 11-year-old, which doesn't make sense.
  3. There's a concern that this policy will cause emotional pain for families who can't visit their sick loved ones. Many believe hospitals should have better, data-driven policies to prevent such situations.

The Real Cause of Health Care Dysfunction

In My Tribe • 1002 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Health care Public Health Health Policy Medicare Insurance
  1. A big reason we spend so much on healthcare is that we often get expensive tests and procedures that don't help us much.
  2. Simply making more people eligible for Medicare won't fix the problem of overspending in healthcare.
  3. Many people like to think that healthcare costs are high because of greedy doctors or insurance companies, but that's not the main reason.

The Dose (December 6)

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1002 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccines Infectious Diseases Health Policy Epidemiology
  1. Getting vaccinated for Covid-19 at the right time can make a big difference. If you haven't had Covid recently, fall is a good time for your shot.
  2. The flu vaccine is important and does not give you the flu. It reduces severe cases, and many misunderstandings about it need to be cleared up.
  3. HPV vaccinations are really effective and can significantly lower the risk of cervical cancer in young women. This shows how important vaccines are for public health.

Anthony Fauci Is Almost Certainly Getting Away With It

Unmasked • 69 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy Government Health Policy Political critique Social Issues
  1. The Biden administration faced criticism for its early COVID policies, which many viewed as extreme and unnecessary. Many felt that pushing vaccines on young children was not justified.
  2. States that lifted mask mandates did better than those that kept them, showing that some COVID restrictions may not have been effective. This sparked debates about the effectiveness of mandates.
  3. There were significant efforts to censor opposing views on social media regarding COVID, and some policies, like vaccine passports, created controversy and division among Americans. Many were frustrated with these approaches.

TRUMP'S FIRST COVID MISTAKE

Seymour Hersh • 43 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Leadership Pandemic response Intelligence Health Policy Government Accountability
  1. There was early intelligence about the COVID virus from Wuhan that indicated urgent action was needed. However, the response from leadership was slow and ineffective.
  2. The U.S. intelligence community had credible sources warning about a laboratory accident in Wuhan, but this information was not acted upon promptly.
  3. Many critical studies and warnings from health experts were reportedly erased from records to protect the president, suggesting a significant mismanagement of the crisis.

Health Expert States There's Basically Zero Evidence Supporting N95 Masks. But At Least There's Significant Side Effects

Unmasked • 83 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Pandemic response Health Policy Mask Mandates
  1. There is little evidence that N95 masks are effective, and they may cause significant side effects.
  2. Many health experts and officials seem unwilling to learn from past COVID-19 failures, which could lead to repeated mistakes.
  3. With the possibility of mask mandates returning, it's important for people to question the policies and their actual effectiveness.

The true story of the Samoa measles outbreak

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts • 152 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccination Health Policy Global Health Medical Ethics
  1. Measles was introduced to Samoa in the 1880s and a significant outbreak occurred due to a combination of poor health systems and low vaccination rates. The outbreak was worsened by significant events, including the deaths of two children after a vaccination mistake.
  2. After the vaccine-related deaths, the Samoan government paused the vaccination program, leading to a sharp decline in vaccination rates. Many people turned to traditional medicine instead of seeking proper medical care when measles spread.
  3. The story of the Samoa measles outbreak highlights that the responsibility for the crisis is complex, involving multiple factors like poor health literacy and governance. Blaming any single person for the outbreak, like RFK Jr., oversimplifies the true situation.

Do other countries do it? A simple litmus test for RFK Jr's ideas

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts • 323 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy Health Policy Vaccination Political Debate Media Analysis
  1. When discussing RFK Jr's ideas, it's helpful to ask if other countries do things the same way. If yes, it opens up a conversation instead of labeling him as crazy.
  2. Some of RFK Jr's views, like raw milk and fluoride in water, have examples in other countries. This doesn’t mean they are right, but it shows there’s room for debate.
  3. Vaccination policies vary globally, and questioning them shouldn't be dismissed. It’s okay to discuss which vaccines may or may not be necessary.

Nurse Sirotek: did she tell us that patients are dying in New York hospitals not from COVID but because of “medical mismanagement” and “gross negligence.” Did she say that minorities, blacks etc.

Alexander News Network -Dr. Paul Elias Alexander's substack • 1552 implied HN points • 08 Jan 24
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy Patient Care COVID-19
  1. Nurse Sirotek alleges patients are dying in New York hospitals due to medical mismanagement and negligence, not just COVID.
  2. She claims that minority patients, including blacks, are disproportionately affected by these deaths.
  3. Sirotek accuses hospital management and advocacy groups of not caring whether minority patients live or die.

The AstraZeneca vaccine saved millions of lives – it should not be demonised

Independent SAGE continues • 479 implied HN points • 19 May 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccines Epidemiology Health Policy Global Health
  1. The AstraZeneca vaccine played a crucial role in saving millions of lives during the pandemic. It was affordable and easy to distribute, especially in poorer countries.
  2. Although there were concerns about rare side effects like blood clots, these issues were quickly identified and monitored. The benefits of the vaccine far outweighed the risks.
  3. Now, there are newer vaccines that are safer and easier to update for new variants. This doesn't take away from the important impact the AZ vaccine had in 2021.

Diversifying Doulas?! HHS Spends Hundreds of Millions Spreading DEI Through Medical Community

OpenTheBooks Substack • 265 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government spending Health Policy Public Administration Public Health
  1. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) employs a large team focused on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), costing taxpayers around $38.7 million each year. This effort includes 294 employees dedicated to creating equitable healthcare practices.
  2. The term 'equity' appears frequently in HHS' budget, showing a strong emphasis on promoting fairness in health services, especially for underserved communities. This includes funding diverse healthcare initiatives and outreach programs.
  3. Federal agencies, like HHS, are combining DEI efforts with traditional civil rights initiatives. This blending can create confusion about how equity policies impact equal treatment in health and employment, leading to potential legal challenges.

It's peak flu season

Force of Infection • 119 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Disease Control Epidemiology Health Policy Infectious Diseases
  1. It's peak flu season, and there's been a significant rise in flu cases lately. Young children are getting hit the hardest with more doctor visits due to influenza-like illness.
  2. Covid-19 cases are also increasing after a slow start, with many locations showing high virus levels. It's important to stay updated on trends as they can change rapidly.
  3. RSV activity is up, but this year seems to be less severe than usual. Overall, it's crucial to take precautions like masking, as multiple respiratory illnesses are spreading.

Make America Healthy Again?

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1193 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Health Policy Healthcare access Disease Prevention Health Education
  1. To improve America's health, we need to focus on real problems and not get distracted by minor issues. Understanding the causes of our health problems is critical.
  2. Access to quality healthcare and addressing social factors like food access is essential for reducing preventable diseases. Solutions should consider both health care and lifestyle.
  3. Public health relies on evidence-based practices. Ideas that sound good but lack strong backing might not help at all and could even make things worse.

Day one agenda items for the president-elect

The Dossier • 227 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Executive orders Political strategy Government reform Health Policy National Security
  1. The president-elect should focus on removing policies related to DEI and ESG in the government. This means cleaning up programs that are seen as overly progressive.
  2. Taking care of military personnel affected by previous mandates should be a priority. Soldiers who faced penalties for not following vaccination orders deserve reinstatement and compensation.
  3. Using executive orders can help the new president quickly implement his agenda. This includes reversing previous harmful orders and tackling government waste effectively.

“Senator, Saying It Doesn't Make It True”

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 599 implied HN points • 19 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy Insurance Issues Political Discourse Government Accountability
  1. The health insurance industry often uses certain lawmakers to protect their profits when faced with regulatory changes. This means politicians sometimes reinforce misleading talking points to serve big insurance companies.
  2. Senator Kennedy challenged Health and Human Services Secretary Becerra with claims about Medicare Advantage savings that are based on questionable research. These figures have been promoted by the insurance industry to create a positive image of their plans.
  3. Becerra pushed back against Kennedy's claims, stating that funding for Medicare Advantage has increased, countering the argument that the administration is cutting funds. This highlights the ongoing debate over the true costs and benefits of these healthcare plans.

The Dose: This week's public health explained (Oct 11)

Your Local Epidemiologist • 959 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccination Epidemiology Chronic diseases Health Policy
  1. Free Covid-19 tests are now available for all. You can order them online and they will be delivered to your home.
  2. Obesity rates in the U.S. are showing some decline after many years of increase, but the drop could be uncertain and isn't significant yet.
  3. Routine vaccinations for kids are dropping, which is concerning. More children are unvaccinated against diseases like measles, and this trend needs to be addressed to prevent outbreaks.

The week of the NZ Midwifery petition, the Aussie court case Tickle v Giggle, and the UK Cass Review.

A B’Old Woman • 519 implied HN points • 14 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Issues Legal Cases Health Policy Social movements Public Discourse
  1. A new petition in New Zealand is pushing for an investigation into midwifery practices, signaling a shift in how politicians view discussions on gender issues.
  2. An Australian court case is determining if someone who identifies as a woman should be allowed access to a women-only app, raising important questions about gender identity rights.
  3. The UK Cass Review found that puberty blockers were being used too liberally, sparking a call for more careful discussions about their use and the impact of gender ideology in healthcare.