The hottest Health Policy Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Health & Wellness Topics

Economics Links, 2/15/2025

In My Tribe • 243 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
💰 Finance Economics Trade Health Policy Substack International
  1. The European Union may have created a big, slow government that doesn't serve its people well. Some believe smaller countries manage their affairs better.
  2. Importing goods doesn't always harm jobs; a trade deficit can actually mean a strong economy. More spending and demand can lead to more jobs, not fewer.
  3. Becoming successful on platforms like Substack is tough. It often takes a large existing following or writing about popular subjects to grow your audience.

Current Pfizer Board Member and Former Trump Appointed FDA Commissioner, Dr. Scott Gottlieb

Injecting Freedom • 116 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccines Public Health Pharmaceuticals Health Policy Medical Ethics
  1. Dr. Scott Gottlieb made claims about vaccines that were proven to be false. It's important to double-check facts, especially when discussing health topics.
  2. Gottlieb's connection to Pfizer raises questions about conflicts of interest when he criticizes others in the vaccine debate. It shows that personal interests can affect public statements.
  3. There is a call for more open discussions about vaccines and health issues. Honest debates can help clarify misunderstandings and improve public knowledge.

Covid Situation Report: May 30, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 219 implied HN points • 31 May 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccination Infectious Diseases Health Policy
  1. Covid positivity rates in England have recently peaked and are starting to decline, indicating that this small wave of Covid is likely over.
  2. The Spring 2024 booster campaign is doing well, with over 3.6 million doses given, but many immunocompromised individuals still need better vaccine coverage.
  3. A new variant called KP.2 is spreading, but it doesn't seem to be significantly more effective than other existing variants at this time.

NZ's Midwifery Council wants to stop using the words 'mother' and 'baby' for mothers and babies.

A B’Old Woman • 679 implied HN points • 04 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Issues Health Policy Social justice Public Health
  1. New Zealand's Midwifery Council wants to change the terms 'mother' and 'baby' to be more inclusive. This is to recognize people who identify differently but may give birth.
  2. The decision has faced criticism for erasing traditional language related to motherhood. Many believe it undermines the focus on women's rights in midwifery.
  3. The changes to the language used in midwifery can impact how health professionals operate. Clear language is crucial to ensure safe and effective care.

I’m hosting a free webinar on Thursday. Here’s why you should tune in and how to register.

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 459 implied HN points • 18 Mar 24
🏥 Health Politics Healthcare Reform Insurance Market Public Health Health Policy Webinars
  1. A free webinar titled 'Safeguarding Health Care's Runaway Train' is happening on March 21, 2024, at 2 PM EST. It'll cover important changes in health care and why you should be interested.
  2. The health insurance industry is facing possible changes, as some employers are starting to find ways to bypass big insurance companies to offer better benefits.
  3. This webinar is part of a series aimed at providing insights into the U.S. health care system, helping people understand the ongoing issues and proposed reforms.
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Reforming the NIH’s Intramural Program

The Good Science Project • 29 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy Biomedical Research Government oversight Public Health
  1. The NIH's Intramural Research Program (IRP) needs major changes to better support innovative research. It was meant for high-risk projects, but now resembles traditional university grant-funded research.
  2. There's a call for more transparency and less bureaucracy in the IRP to help scientists focus on their research. Right now, unnecessary paperwork and spending limits reduce their ability to innovate.
  3. To boost true high-risk research, the IRP should evaluate its ongoing projects compared to other research being done outside the NIH. This way, they can ensure they are doing unique work that couldn’t be done elsewhere.

The Grace of Dr. Jay

A Biologist's Guide to Life • 52 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Epidemiology COVID-19 Health Policy
  1. Dr. Jay Bhattacharya is important because he promotes open discussions in science, even when there are differing opinions. His approach helps to maintain trust in scientific research during tough times.
  2. During the pandemic, some scientists faced harsh criticisms and censorship for their views. It’s essential to remember that different ideas can help us all understand complex situations better.
  3. The future of health science needs leaders like Jay, who exemplify curiosity and kindness. These qualities can foster better communication and collaboration in tackling public health challenges.

Outbreak Outlook - Dec 2

Force of Infection • 108 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Public Health Epidemiology Infectious Diseases Health Policy Food Safety
  1. Flu cases are increasing, especially among young children, with activity levels hitting the start of flu season.
  2. COVID-19 rates remain low in the U.S., with fewer hospitalizations and a slight rise in emergency visits in some states.
  3. Concerns about H5N1 bird flu continue as officials are unable to find the source of recent infections in humans.

Suggestions for a Practical Way of Responding to RFK, Jr: Reflections from an Infectious Disease Doctor

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts • 115 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccines Infectious Diseases Health Policy
  1. Don't assume bad intentions of people like RFK Jr. Even if you disagree with them, it's important to recognize that they may genuinely care about public health.
  2. Instead of labeling individuals as 'quacks,' it's smarter to engage with their arguments and acknowledge when they make valid points. This can earn more respect.
  3. Being honest about past mistakes in public health can help rebuild trust with the community. Acknowledging errors makes it easier to improve in the future.

The Media Is Furious That Dr. Jay Bhattacharya Will Be Head of NIH

Unmasked • 96 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Health Policy Media Public Opinion Leadership
  1. Dr. Jay Bhattacharya has been appointed as the head of the National Institutes of Health. He is highly qualified with degrees in medicine and health policy.
  2. His appointment is seen as a challenge to previous leadership at NIH, particularly to Anthony Fauci and Francis Collins, as he supports evidence-based science rather than political ideology.
  3. The media is reacting negatively to his appointment because he has publicly opposed strict COVID-19 measures like lockdowns and mask mandates.

The Knight Foundation and The Signals Network are changing the future of whistleblowing

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 379 implied HN points • 13 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Whistleblowing Health Policy Media Ethics Social justice
  1. The Knight Foundation and The Signals Network are focused on improving support for whistleblowers, making it easier for them to speak out against wrongdoing. This means better tools and resources for those who want to share their experiences.
  2. Whistleblowers play an important role in exposing corporate and government misconduct, which can lead to positive changes in society. Their courage helps hold powerful people accountable for their actions.
  3. Speaking out against injustices is often a difficult choice, but it's necessary for driving change. When individuals blow the whistle, they advocate for better systems that prioritize people's well-being over profit.

Covid Situation Report: May 23, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 179 implied HN points • 24 May 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccination Infectious Diseases Health Policy Epidemiology
  1. Covid positivity rates have peaked and are now decreasing, indicating a potential end to the recent wave of infections.
  2. The Spring 2024 booster campaign is going well, with over 3.3 million doses given, but vaccination among vulnerable groups remains low.
  3. A new variant, KP.2, is spreading but doesn't appear to be more aggressive than others currently in circulation.

"Medical Freedom Movement" Circular Firing Squad

Who is Robert Malone • 41 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Movements Health Policy Government Structure Political strategy Media influence
  1. The 'Medical Freedom Movement' is facing internal conflicts, with prominent figures criticizing each other instead of working together. This creates distrust and divides among supporters.
  2. Some key players in the movement look to avoid criticizing certain narratives around vaccines while still questioning others. This complicates their unity and decreases trust.
  3. The movement has qualities similar to a cult, including strict leadership, mind control, and a fear of dissent, which can be harmful to its members.

Mel Gibson And Joe Rogan Are Useful Idiots!

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 18 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Vaccines Public Health Health Policy Medical Ethics Disease Prevention
  1. There isn't any solid proof that the mRNA Covid-19 vaccines are linked to increased health problems or deaths. Many claims just seem to be speculation without evidence to back them up.
  2. A lot of health issues may actually be tied to nuclear pollution from events like Fukushima and not the vaccines. Some people focus on blaming the vaccines instead of looking at these other serious issues.
  3. Critics like Mel Gibson and Joe Rogan seem to push certain narratives without recognizing the broader problems, like military bioweapons or environmental pollution, which might be the real causes behind public health concerns.

How junk science set a country's health and welfare policy

¡Do Not Panic! • 904 implied HN points • 21 Oct 23
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy Medical Research Long Covid
  1. Junk science influenced a country's health policy and denied benefits to chronically ill people.
  2. Medical professionals can be influenced by social and political ideologies, impacting patient care.
  3. Persistent advocacy by sufferers can challenge harmful treatment recommendations and promote understanding of medical conditions.

Is the No Surprises Act backfiring on patients?

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 439 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy Insurance Issues Patient Advocacy
  1. The No Surprises Act was created to protect patients from surprise medical bills, but it may not be working as intended. Insurers have found ways to manipulate the system, negatively impacting patients.
  2. Insurers can set the rates for out-of-network services and use that power to push down payments to doctors, which may lead to less availability of medical care.
  3. The government has not enforced the law properly, allowing insurers to profit while leaving patients with longer wait times and less access to doctors.

Whiny Baby Mitch McConnell Might Not Vote for a Man Who Tried to Cripple Him

I Might Be Wrong • 10 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political News Health Policy Election Analysis Public Health Political Commentary
  1. Mitch McConnell's childhood experience with polio makes him cautious about anti-vaccine sentiments. He knows firsthand the damage diseases can cause.
  2. Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s nomination is controversial due to his strong anti-vaccine views. Many worry about the impact on public health if he takes office.
  3. Confirmation hearings should focus on qualifications rather than personal grudges. McConnell needs to separate his feelings from the professional responsibilities of evaluating Kennedy.

Understanding mysterious outbreaks

Force of Infection • 70 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Epidemiology Public Health Outbreaks Disease Control Health Policy
  1. Mysterious outbreaks often fall into three categories: known diseases, rare diseases, and completely new diseases. It's important to understand these categories to respond effectively.
  2. The most common cause of an outbreak is usually a known disease that flares up, especially in areas with poor healthcare resources. These can be serious but are often easier to manage.
  3. Outbreaks of rare or new diseases are the most concerning. They require quick action because they can be very dangerous and might not have available treatments or vaccines.

Covid Situation Report: Jun 13, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 99 implied HN points • 15 Jun 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccines Epidemiology Infectious Diseases Health Policy
  1. Covid levels in England have stabilised after a minor rise in mid-May. Most regions are showing low and stable rates.
  2. The Spring 2024 booster vaccination campaign is going well, with 3.9 million doses given, but more needs to be done for vulnerable groups, especially the immunosuppressed.
  3. Older individuals face a higher risk of hospitalisation and death from Covid, highlighting the importance of getting vaccinated, especially for those aged 75 and above.

14 Attorney Generals Demand Answers Regarding the C-19 Vaccine Injured and Dead

Who is Robert Malone • 23 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Government Accountability Health Policy
  1. Fourteen state attorneys general are asking the federal government for answers about the treatment of people injured by COVID-19 vaccines. They feel that the current system is not fair to these individuals.
  2. The Countermeasures Injury Compensation Program (CICP) is seen as lacking transparency and has made it hard for injured individuals to get the support they need. Many claims are denied or unresolved.
  3. People who have suffered from vaccine-related injuries are often left without proper medical care or financial help. Their stories highlight the struggles they face after vaccination and the need for better support.

Legal Abortion Protections Aren't Enough

Can We Still Govern? • 69 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Abortion rights Health Policy Reproductive Health
  1. Trump's administration could make it harder for women to access medication for abortion, which is used in most cases. This might include limiting how it can be obtained, like using telehealth services.
  2. Reproductive health care access, including basic services like contraception, could be restricted nationwide. Trump may use federal power to cut funding to providers, making it tougher for women to get care.
  3. There might be a rise in misinformation about reproductive health. Strategies to confuse the public about abortion being health care could lead to more restrictive policies in all states.

Surprise, Surprise, Anthony Fauci Lied Again

Unmasked • 86 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Health COVID-19 Political Accountability Government Trust Health Policy
  1. Anthony Fauci has admitted to lying about herd immunity levels to encourage vaccinations. This shows a willingness to manipulate facts for perceived greater good.
  2. He avoids responsibility for school closures, even though he made public claims supporting those closures at the time. This suggests he uses language carefully to distance himself from backlash.
  3. Recent emails released from Fauci show patterns of dishonesty, leading to decreased public trust in him and health authorities. Many people now doubt the credibility of public health experts.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 07.02.2025

steigan.no • 7 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political News Health Policy International relations Government funding Public Health
  1. There are strong calls from many medical professionals and organizations to remove COVID-19 vaccines from the market due to concerns about safety and significant health risks.
  2. Recent discussions between Russia and the USA regarding Ukraine suggest a potential shift in strategy, with the USA looking for new elections in Ukraine to facilitate negotiations.
  3. CRISPR technology is being considered in Norway for gene editing in agriculture, but there are ongoing debates about the risks and regulations surrounding its use.

Outbreak Outlook - National - Dec 9

Force of Infection • 53 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases Public Health Health Policy Outbreaks Epidemiology
  1. There is an increase in influenza-like illnesses, especially among young children. Outpatient visits for these symptoms have gone up recently.
  2. COVID-19 activity remains low across the country, but there are signs it could pick up soon in certain regions. Hospitalizations are currently at the lowest levels of the past year.
  3. Norovirus cases are on the rise, with the highest rates in the West. It's important to keep washing your hands to stay healthy.

Revenge of the nerds: Will my new method for assessing vaccine safety put the scientific community to shame?

Steve Kirsch's newsletter • 7 implied HN points • 19 May 25
🏥 Health Politics Vaccine Safety Public Health Scientific Method Epidemiology Health Policy
  1. A new method suggests a simple way to assess vaccine safety by comparing death rates between vaccinated and unvaccinated groups. This approach could challenge traditional methods used by scientists.
  2. If this method is correct, it could mean that COVID vaccines caused more harm than good, contradicting the idea that vaccines are always safe and effective.
  3. There may be reluctance in the scientific community to accept this method because it comes from someone outside their field, which highlights the challenges of accepting new ideas and changing established beliefs.

Inconvenient History of Salk Inactivated Polio Vaccine

Who is Robert Malone • 37 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccines Public Health Pharmaceuticals Health Policy
  1. The Salk polio vaccine had serious safety issues, including live polio virus contamination which led to illness and deaths in children who received it. This was known as the Cutter Crisis.
  2. Bernice Eddy, a scientist who raised alarms about the vaccine's problems, faced backlash and was largely ignored for her warnings about its safety, including issues with a contaminating virus linked to cancer.
  3. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. aims to improve vaccine safety regulations and believes all medications, including vaccines, should undergo rigorous scrutiny to ensure they are safe for public use.

Anthony Fauci Exposes Yale’s Gregg Gonsalves as Academic Activist Who Fakes Data Claims

The DisInformation Chronicle • 710 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy Social media Media Public Trust Academic standards
  1. Fauci admitted the 6-feet social distancing guideline lacked scientific evidence.
  2. Gonsalves, an activist turned academic, has a history of diagnosing all medical crises as AIDS-related.
  3. Gonsalves made unsupported medical claims in a legal declaration, citing a news article as evidence.

Outbreak Outlook - National - Nov 18

Force of Infection • 67 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🏥 Health Politics Disease Control Vaccination Health Policy Public Health Food Safety
  1. RSV and flu-like illnesses are starting to rise as we get deeper into winter, especially among young kids. But overall, flu activity remains low for now.
  2. Covid-19 cases are still very low across the country, and hospitalizations due to the virus have decreased. Most areas show low wastewater levels for Covid-19.
  3. Norovirus is on the rise, especially in the South, and other respiratory viruses are also becoming more common. It's a good time to stay aware of food recalls linked to contamination.

Impending Medical Doom—AGAIN—and What We Can Do to Stay Sane

Tessa Fights Robots • 35 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Infectious Diseases Health Policy Vaccination
  1. It's important to pay attention to fungal and parasitic infections as they can affect our health in many ways. Focusing on prevention through diet and natural remedies can help.
  2. The idea of looming medical crises often comes up, and we should think critically about the information presented to us. Staying informed allows us to make better decisions.
  3. Finding ways to manage stress and include humor in our lives is essential. Laughter can be a powerful tool for our mental and emotional well-being.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 08.02.2025

steigan.no • 5 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Global relations Corruption Government aid Health Policy
  1. Many independent media outlets in Russia and Ukraine rely heavily on funding from USAID. The recent loss of this support has put these media organizations in a tough spot, risking layoffs and shutdowns.
  2. The World Health Organization (WHO) increasingly depends on private funding, which raises questions about its independence and priorities. Critics argue this could lead to undue influence from corporate interests.
  3. The increasing corruption in political and regulatory systems has made it difficult to trust that public health decisions are made for the right reasons, rather than influenced by wealthy donors or industry stakeholders.

Outbreak Outlook - National - Nov 11

Force of Infection • 67 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases Vaccination Public Health Epidemiology Health Policy
  1. Covid-19 levels are low in most areas, but there are still slight increases, especially in the Midwest. Make sure you're keeping an eye on your health and any symptoms.
  2. Influenza-like illness is starting to rise, particularly in young children, as we move into flu season. If you haven't gotten your flu vaccine yet, now is a good time to do so.
  3. Norovirus is currently higher in some regions, but it has dropped slightly overall. It's a reminder to keep practicing good hygiene, especially during this time of year.

"Under the law he had no remedy." How Dr. Dan Hurley's legacy could lead to health insurance prior authorization reform

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 519 implied HN points • 04 Oct 23
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy Insurance Reform Patient Advocacy Medical Ethics Healthcare system
  1. Dr. Dan Hurley fought against health insurance practices that often deny essential treatments, even after initial approval. His struggles highlight how complicated and frustrating dealing with insurers can be for patients.
  2. The law governing health insurance makes it hard for patients to challenge denied claims, leaving many without proper remedies for their disputes. This unfair system discourages people from appealing denied medical treatments.
  3. Hurley's legacy encourages the formation of advocacy groups to help patients fight against unfair insurance practices. His story inspires others to push for change in health coverage to ease the burden on families dealing with medical needs.

The asymmetry of giving

Men Yell at Me • 146 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Reproductive Rights Political Activism Fundraising Health Policy Social justice
  1. There is a strong need for support in abortion access, especially from smaller funds that directly help clinics.
  2. Big donations often go to larger organizations, which can lead to clinic closures and higher costs for patients.
  3. Even with political changes, real access to abortion remains limited, leaving many feeling hopeless.

How the Nuka System of Care has improved the quality of medical care (and lives) of Alaska Natives

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 399 implied HN points • 31 Oct 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Healthcare Public Health Chronic Conditions Patient Care Health Policy
  1. The Nuka System of Care in Alaska has dramatically improved healthcare by focusing on community-based support and engaging Alaska Natives directly in their health journeys. This system results in happier patients and better health outcomes.
  2. Since the Nuka System started, emergency room visits and hospital admissions have dropped significantly. It also emphasizes personal relationships and understanding each patient's unique needs, leading to high satisfaction rates.
  3. The approach integrates modern medical practices with the values of Alaska Native culture. This has made it a model for healthcare systems worldwide, with many organizations studying its success to learn how to improve their own care.

As Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) expands into a rich suburb, a small community hospital faces closure

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 419 implied HN points • 28 Sep 23
🏥 Health Politics Healthcare access Health Policy
  1. Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) is growing and investing in new facilities, but this has left smaller community hospitals struggling to survive. This expansion is happening in wealthy suburbs while local hospitals face closure.
  2. Many small rural hospitals in the U.S. are in financial trouble because they don't get paid enough for the care they provide. This leads to closures, making it hard for people in those areas to get medical help.
  3. There are concerns about how nonprofit hospitals are defined and whether they are truly serving their communities. A group of senators is pushing for clearer rules to ensure these hospitals meet their obligations to provide care to those in need.

Cycling New Zealand restores single-sex competition; and new report says NZ hospital wards should be “single-gender” (whatever that means).

A B’Old Woman • 419 implied HN points • 03 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Issues Health Policy Sports Policy Human Rights Societal norms
  1. Cycling New Zealand has decided to restore single-sex competitions. This change is aimed at ensuring fair competition for female cyclists against biological males who transition after puberty.
  2. A new report suggests that hospital wards in New Zealand should be single-gender. The authors argue that sharing rooms between men and women could compromise patient safety and dignity.
  3. There is a growing debate around gender identity and its impact on sports and healthcare. Some believe it's important to recognize biological differences, while others advocate for more inclusive language and policies.

Outbreak Outlook - October 21

Force of Infection • 67 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases Vaccination Public Health Epidemiology Health Policy
  1. Covid-19 cases are low nationally, but there might be a slight increase in the Northeast. Hospitalizations are at a low level across the country.
  2. Norovirus is increasing in rates, especially in the South where it has reached higher levels than in the last two years.
  3. Influenza-like illnesses are up slightly, particularly among young children, but overall activity remains low.

RFK Jr. And The Samoan Measles Outbreak

Who is Robert Malone • 23 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination Public Health Health Policy Epidemiology Medical Ethics
  1. The Samoan measles outbreak of 2019 is often blamed on low vaccination rates, but evidence suggests other factors may have contributed to the high death toll.
  2. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. raised important questions about the outbreak, which were ignored by many critics who painted him as an anti-vaxxer.
  3. Detailed investigations into vaccine safety and efficacy are necessary to prevent future public health crises and ensure transparent healthcare practices.

Finally, Big Insurance's Pharmacy Benefit Managers are being probed by Congress

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 679 implied HN points • 15 May 23
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy Insurance Reform Pharmaceuticals
  1. Congress is looking into how Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) operate. They want to make sure these companies are not overcharging people for their medications.
  2. PBMs and insurance companies are causing more financial strain on patients by raising out-of-pocket costs. Many people are struggling to afford their medications because deductibles have doubled over the past decade.
  3. There are new bills being proposed to increase transparency and reform PBM practices. This could help ensure that savings from drug manufacturers are passed on to patients.