The hottest Health Policy Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Health & Wellness Topics

The Curious Case of Luigi Mangione

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 296 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics 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.

No more vaccines

Disaffected Newsletter • 699 implied HN points • 02 Sep 22
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy
  1. The speaker has decided not to take any more vaccines, except for possibly a tetanus booster. They believe this decision is based on a rational understanding of public health and pharmaceutical practices.
  2. They feel that there may have been misinformation about the risk and benefits of earlier vaccines, leading to doubts about the vaccination process.
  3. The speaker acknowledges that their decision may seem unusual to vaccine supporters but sees it as a normal response to their understanding of the 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 Health Policy
  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.

VSRF LIVE TONIGHT: Episode 214: Tamara Ugolini

Steve Kirsch's newsletter • 2 implied HN points • 12 Feb 26
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy
  1. Public health institutions in Canada often prioritize protecting institutions over protecting people, creating a pattern of regulatory capture and failing to deliver accountability.
  2. Transparency is being blocked by slow, heavily redacted information releases and a vaccine injury support program that is delayed and difficult to access, which prevents independent scrutiny.
  3. Specific controversies — including delayed acknowledgment of AstraZeneca-related injuries and a very permissive Medical Assistance in Dying regime — raise serious safety and ethical concerns.

Making a “Miracle” HIV Medicine

Asimov Press • 206 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy
  1. Lenacapavir is a new injectable drug that can prevent HIV for up to six months, showing a higher effectiveness than daily pills.
  2. The drug is being offered at reduced prices in many low-income countries, but there are concerns about access and affordability in some regions.
  3. Despite its promise, lenacapavir's future depends on getting it to those who need it, especially given changes in government funding for HIV prevention programs.
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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 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.

How We Could Save Billions by Finding Which Medical Treatments Don't Work

The Good Science Project • 66 implied HN points • 15 Aug 25
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy
  1. Many common medical treatments are not supported by solid evidence, with around 90% lacking strong trials to prove their effectiveness.
  2. A lot of spending on treatments comes from practices that might actually be harmful or useless, putting patients at risk.
  3. Creating a system to test these questionable treatments could save billions of dollars and improve patient health significantly.

Did CCDH and AAMC Cooperate on COVID Censorship?

Who is Robert Malone • 11 implied HN points • 01 Jan 26
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy
  1. The AAMC and CCDH acted as complementary parts of the same censorship‑oriented ecosystem. AAMC enforced norms inside medicine while CCDH pressured platforms and public discourse.
  2. Coordination came through shared funders, overlapping advisory networks, and participation in government‑led partner calls rather than a clearly documented contract. There’s strong circumstantial evidence of synchronized messaging and influence.
  3. CCDH projects like the "Disinformation Dozen" shaped platform moderation and government talking points, and AAMC statements often echoed that rhetoric, helping to marginalize dissenting medical voices.

MAHA Comes of Age

Who is Robert Malone • 11 implied HN points • 31 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy
  1. MAHA became a powerful political force in 2025 with direct access to high-level government leaders. It is helping shape health policy and backing efforts to make national health a top priority.
  2. The movement pushes prevention over treatment and urges people to question medical orthodoxy and corporate influence in healthcare. It promotes informed choice, personalized prevention, and reducing exposure to toxins.
  3. MAHA has built strong media and organizing tools and plans to mobilize millions of supporters to drive policy change and influence the midterms. They aim to be a persistent grassroots force working with governments and institutions.

Vaccines are popular, actually

Force of Infection • 190 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy
  1. Vaccination rates in America are high, often over 80% for childhood shots. This shows that many people are choosing to get vaccinated.
  2. Public perception of vaccines can be skewed by negative news. When people believe that most doctors don't support vaccines, they are less likely to get vaccinated.
  3. Despite some controversy, many Americans actually see vaccines as a safe and normal choice for health. This is an important point that often gets overlooked.

puberty disruptors

bad cattitude • 194 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy
  1. Children are going through confusing times during puberty, and it's normal for them to feel lost. Instead of supporting them through these challenges, some ideas today make them feel like they should question their gender, which can lead to more confusion.
  2. There are serious risks in pushing kids towards gender-changing treatments without fully understanding the consequences. These medical actions can change their lives forever in harmful ways.
  3. Our society needs to focus on helping kids understand that feeling awkward during puberty is okay. We should protect them from ideas that could cause more harm rather than supporting them through their natural development.

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

OpenTheBooks Substack • 265 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy
  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.

Insurers using AI and algorithms to deny claims; Sen. Elizabeth Warren calls on Biden to address Medicare Advantage profiteering

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 299 implied HN points • 04 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy
  1. Insurance companies are using AI to deny a lot of claims quickly without human checks. This means many people might not get the coverage they need.
  2. Senator Elizabeth Warren is pushing for action against Medicare Advantage plans that are making huge profits while not providing necessary care. She's highlighting the need for better oversight.
  3. The healthcare system can be very confusing and stressful, especially for those who are sick. Navigating it feels even tougher when you’re not feeling well.

HHS, CDC to Make Announcement on Children’s Health Tomorrow

Who is Robert Malone • 13 implied HN points • 18 Dec 25
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy
  1. HHS and CDC are expected to announce a major change to the U.S. childhood vaccine schedule that could align it with other Western countries, potentially delaying start ages and reducing total doses for some vaccines.
  2. The decision may be driven at the HHS leadership level rather than through the CDC's advisory committee (ACIP), which would later need to update recommendations and align the Vaccines for Children program.
  3. If certain vaccines are removed from the official schedule, manufacturers could lose liability protections, likely triggering large lawsuits and intense pushback from pharmaceutical-backed medical groups, advocacy organizations, and trial lawyers.

Weekly Dose of Optimism #147

Not Boring by Packy McCormick • 92 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
🏥 Health & Wellness Health Policy
  1. Exercise helps cancer patients live longer after treatment, showing that staying active is super important for health.
  2. New cancer treatments like cilta-cel are showing promise, with some patients achieving long-term remission after just one treatment.
  3. Neuralink is making waves with its brain-computer interface tech, aiming to improve healthcare for conditions like blindness and paralysis.

Kennedy, Conspiracy, and the Measles Outbreak that Nearly Destroyed Samoa

Off-Topic • 174 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy
  1. In 2018, two babies in Samoa died after a vaccine was mistakenly prepared with the wrong liquid. This led to a public outcry and a temporary halt to vaccinations in the country.
  2. Disinformation spread online, particularly from anti-vaccine groups, made parents in Samoa afraid of vaccines. This fear led to a significant drop in vaccination rates, even as a measles outbreak began in 2019.
  3. Despite the devastating impact of misinformation, Samoa managed to recover by launching a vaccination campaign that brought their vaccination rates back up and controlled the outbreak. However, the consequences of the misinformation were severe, with many lives lost.

Bombshell Rasmussen Survey Released

Who is Robert Malone • 19 implied HN points • 21 Nov 25
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy
  1. About 36% of people who got the COVID vaccine report side effects. This means many felt some impact after receiving it.
  2. Many Americans think the vaccine could have caused serious health problems and even deaths. This shows there's confusion and concern among the public.
  3. There's a big difference between what the public believes about vaccine side effects and what health organizations report. This disconnect needs to be addressed.

Metascience at the NIH

The Good Science Project • 59 implied HN points • 05 Aug 25
🔬 Science Health Policy
  1. The NIH is looking to limit high article processing charges for open-access journals. This is important because some journals ask for really high fees that can take away from research funding.
  2. The NIH is working to reduce bureaucracy that slows down research. Researchers spend a lot of time on paperwork, which could be better spent on their actual science work.
  3. There’s a focus on funding more replication experiments in science. This is key because it helps check if important research findings are true and not based on mistakes or fraud.

Day one agenda items for the president-elect

The Dossier • 227 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy
  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.

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 Health Policy
  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.

Universities are falling short again

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts • 150 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy
  1. Universities didn't hold important debates during the COVID-19 pandemic. Topics like school closures and mask mandates were never discussed, leading to a loss of trust from the public.
  2. There's a call for universities to address issues around NIH funding reform. Instead of promoting fear about funding cuts, they should engage in constructive discussions to improve the system.
  3. The general public feels disconnected from universities, especially regarding how taxpayer money is spent. Universities need to listen to these concerns and actively involve diverse opinions to regain public support.

Yes, Wipe Down Surfaces. No, Don't Hoard Cleaning Products. Try HOCl.

OK Doomer • 141 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy
  1. It's important to wipe down surfaces to prevent the spread of germs, especially when illnesses like the flu are on the rise.
  2. Instead of hoarding cleaning products, try using hypochlorous acid (HOCl) as a simpler and effective germ killer.
  3. The flu season is currently very severe, even worse than COVID-19 in some cases, so taking precautions is essential for safety.

Outbreak Outlook - National - Feb 24

Force of Infection • 136 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy
  1. Influenza cases have dropped recently, giving some relief, although numbers are still higher than usual. Improvements were seen across all age groups.
  2. COVID-19 activity varies by state, with some places seeing high case numbers while others have less. Overall hospitalizations are low now compared to past months.
  3. Norovirus remains very high across the country, and it's expected to stay elevated for a while. This season's peak may last longer than usual.

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 Health Policy
  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.

My email to Brown Professor Craig Spencer, M.D., MPH on his StatNews article

Steve Kirsch's newsletter • 8 implied HN points • 15 Dec 25
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy
  1. An open invitation asks a public health expert to have a civil, data-focused conversation about vaccine safety, aiming to stick to data and methods rather than rhetoric.
  2. The view that the medical community is simply 'correct and must earn trust' is challenged, with a key concern being that many credentialed experts refuse public, method-focused debates.
  3. Repeated attempts to engage prominent figures (including offers to Dr. Paul Offit and an instance where Peter Hotez reportedly declined to meet RFK) are seen as evidence that refusal to dialogue is the main barrier to finding the truth, and dialogue is promoted as the solution.

The true story of the Samoa measles outbreak

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts • 152 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy
  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.

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 Health Policy
  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.

Outbreak Outlook - National - March 3

Force of Infection • 110 implied HN points • 03 Mar 25
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy
  1. Influenza-like illness is declining, which is good news for everyone, especially parents. Although rates are still above the national baseline, both children and adults are seeing fewer doctor visits for flu symptoms.
  2. COVID-19 activity remains low with a decrease in hospitalizations and emergency department visits. Most states are reporting stable or decreasing cases.
  3. Norovirus rates are still very high and have been consistent since December. It's affecting many people, particularly in the Midwest, so it's important to take precautions.

Why Have Vaccines Become a Religion?

Who is Robert Malone • 13 implied HN points • 24 Nov 25
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy
  1. Vaccines are often treated like a religion, with strong beliefs and emotional ties. People can be very resistant to discussions about their potential dangers, similar to how some people react to questioning religious beliefs.
  2. Medicine and vaccines have become part of a modern belief system where faith in them is prioritized over individual evidence and experiences. This leads to situations where dissenting voices can face backlash.
  3. There is significant concern about the lack of transparency in vaccine safety studies, often using flawed methods that prevent clear conclusions about their risks. Critics argue that this indicates a need for more honest discussions about vaccine safety.

Trump, Science, and Academia

Unsafe Science • 116 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy
  1. RFK Jr.'s appointment as Secretary of Health and Human Services raises concerns due to his controversial views on vaccines and health policy, even if he has a strong background in environmental law.
  2. Trump's approach to academia, including the emphasis on reducing DEI programs and fighting anti-Semitism, aims to shift the focus back to equal treatment in federal funding and policy, potentially impacting diversity efforts in education.
  3. The pause in federal grants and the disappearing of some scientific data have caused concern about access to information and funding in academia, highlighting the ongoing battle over scientific governance.

VSRF LIVE TONIGHT: Episode 212: Dr. Larry Palevsky, MD.

Steve Kirsch's newsletter • 2 implied HN points • 29 Jan 26
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy
  1. The American Academy of Pediatrics has publicly rejected recent CDC changes to the childhood vaccine schedule, signaling a split in national pediatric guidance.
  2. Several states are now opposing federal vaccine guidance and effectively ‘going rogue,’ which creates confusion for parents and doctors and undermines trust and accountability.
  3. Dr. Larry Palevsky, a pediatrician known for a holistic, systems-based approach, argues mainstream pediatric guidance can miss long-term health outcomes and stresses the importance of informed consent.

The asymmetry of giving

Men Yell at Me • 146 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy
  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.

Consolidations and profiteering: the relentless rise of hospital expenditures

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 199 implied HN points • 02 Mar 23
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy
  1. Hospital expenditures are rising quickly, with costs expected to reach $2.2 trillion by 2030. This growth is leading to financial burden on patients and families.
  2. Many factors contribute to these rising costs, including wasteful administrative expenses and high-priced medicines. Administrative costs alone can make up 15-30% of the health-care spending.
  3. One big reason for higher hospital prices is consolidation through mergers, which leads to less competition and price increases. Most areas now have only a few hospital options which can drive prices up by over 20%.

NYC mayor’s misguided and dangerous plan to move city retirees into a private Medicare replacement plan dealt another blow

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 219 implied HN points • 18 Jan 23
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy
  1. New York City retirees are fighting against a plan to move them to a private Medicare replacement that could limit their healthcare options. Many retirees feel this plan is risky and unnecessary.
  2. Recent opposition resulted in the city council not voting on the mayor's proposal, showing that collective action can influence decision-makers. The retirees are determined to continue their fight, even if it means taking legal action.
  3. The mayor's plan could lead to increased healthcare costs and less choice for retirees. There are suggested ways for the city to save money without cutting benefits, like conducting audits and improving its own systems.

It's peak flu season

Force of Infection • 119 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy
  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.

Outbreak Outlook - National - July 9

Force of Infection • 44 implied HN points • 09 Jul 25
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy
  1. Measles cases are breaking records this year, with many months still remaining. This highlights the ongoing concerns about vaccine coverage and public health.
  2. Influenza-like illnesses are low right now, showing it’s off-season for flu. The situation could change as we move further into the year.
  3. COVID-19 cases are slowly rising, especially in southern states like Florida and Texas, but there isn't a big surge happening yet.

The Health of our People

A Biologist's Guide to Life • 40 implied HN points • 19 Jul 25
🏥 Health & Wellness Health Policy
  1. Facing health challenges can bring families together and create strong bonds. It's important to support each other during tough times.
  2. Using scientific knowledge can empower people when dealing with serious health issues. Exploring how things work can lead to better understanding and hope.
  3. Finding new ways to approach treatment, like using diet to help with chemotherapy, can offer new possibilities for improving health outcomes.