Former users and experts debate whether kratom, an herbal substance, helps or harms those who take it
PHOENIX – Former kratom users in the Valley describe their experiences using the herbal substance that originated with traditional uses in Southeast Asia. While users started taking it to deal with depression or pain, they described becoming addicted as they took higher doses. A Banner Health toxicologist and the American Kratom Association discuss its potential risks and benefits.
Affordable Care Act celebrates 14th anniversary following jump in enrollment, continuing political discord
PHOENIX – The Affordable Care Act just celebrated its 14th anniversary this month despite continuing differences in opinions between Democrats and Republicans about the landmark health care law.
Tribes, feds spar before Supreme Court over who pays for health care
WASHINGTON - The San Carlos Apache said Monday it is owed $3 million by the federal government for health services, one of two tribes arguing before the Supreme Court for more support, But the government said allowing tribes to claim additional costs would strap the system.
‘Downwinder’ renewal left out of massive budget bill rushed through Congress
PHOENIX - The $1.2 trillion budget that Congress was working to pass Friday included protection for gas stoves to restrictions on payments to the Chinese government. What it didn't include was renewal of the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act for "downwinders."
Mobile maternity care clinics work to expand prenatal care accessibility
PHOENIX – One in six infants in Arizona was born to a woman receiving inadequate prenatal care in 2022. To tackle lack of accessibility, mobile maternity care units are bringing prenatal care to communities that need affordable prenatal resources.
Maricopa County, First Place hold mock election for disabled voters ahead of presidential primary
PHOENIX – Maricopa County Recorder’s Office and Elections Office is providing tools to help voters with disabilities cast their ballots and has teamed up with First Place, a residential center for people with disabilities.
Maricopa County residents eligible for free pool fences through Pool Fence Safety Program
PHOENIX – Child Crisis Arizona, the Salt River Project and the 493 Firefighter Foundation aim to decrease childhood drownings through the 2024 Pool Fence Safety Program that provides free pool fences to eligible Maricopa County residents.
Black Americans three times as likely to experience kidney failure as whites
PHOENIX — Black Americans are more likely to experience kidney failure than any other racial group in the United States, as the community has high rates of high blood pressure and diabetes.
The VA pioneered the use of telehealth for veterans who can’t easily access health care facilities
PHOENIX – Veterans Affairs has been using telehealth since the early 2000s, long before the surge in use brought on by COVID–19. Telehealth helps veterans who have mobility issues and gives them access to specialists even in remote areas.
What Arizona and Maricopa County are doing to manage smoke, air quality
PHOENIX – The Maricopa County Air Quality Department and the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality are working to maintain the health and prosperity of the environment and residents as it relates to air quality through no-burn days and prescribed-burn smoke dispersion.
Arizona reports 20% increase in HIV cases, predominantly affecting Hispanic communities
PHOENIX – Reported Arizona HIV cases have increased by 20%, an uptick largely affecting the Hispanic community. A Phoenix care organization describes how financial and cultural barriers persist to persuading people to get tested.
Prom, conversation, bingo: Seniors seek socialization
GILBERT – Phoenix senior homes held a prom in January to give their residents a special event with live music, dancing and a chance to dress up and socialize. Socialization is key to mental health and well-being for senior citizens.
