This Week in Public Health

03/12/2026

Most seniors and disabled people face strict Medicaid asset limits—usually just $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples. But these limits vary wildly by state, with Connecticut setting the lowest and California eliminating limits entirely in 2024.

Could these rules be blocking access to essential care? Find out how your state compares and what it means for Medicaid eligibility.

Explore current Medicaid asset limits by state and learn about countable vs. exempt assets and how resource limits apply to eligibility.

03/12/2026

The ONC Health IT Certification Program promises to ensure that health IT products meet rigorous standards for security, functionality, and interoperability. This framework supports seamless, secure sharing of electronic health information across providers, patients, and public health agencies.

But how well does certification translate into safer, more coordinated care—and fewer barriers? Discover the complexities behind the certification process and its role in protecting your health data.

Explore the ONC Health IT Certification Program, supporting health IT functionality, certification, and security requirements adopted by HHS. Learn about processes, criteria, and resources.

03/12/2026

The American Public Health Association is sounding the alarm as critical protections for clean air, healthcare access, and nutrition face historic rollbacks and cuts. From challenging EPA’s illegal pollution rulings to defending gender-affirming care and SNAP benefits, APHA warns these policies put millions at risk.

The fight for public health equity is intensifying—read how we can all help push back.

Proposed policies jeopardize critical public health systems and risk worsening health inequities.

03/12/2026

In a rare moment of bipartisan cooperation, Senator Jon Ossoff has stopped a drastic 50% cut to CDC funding proposed last year. His leadership ensures the CDC can continue its critical work protecting Americans. Protecting public health infrastructure is a fight worth watching.

Read more:

Atlanta, Ga. — U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff has successfully defeated an effort to defund the CDC. Sen. Ossoff worked with Republicans and Democrats to ensure th ...

03/12/2026

What if the foods you choose every day had the power to boost your energy, shield your immune system, lift your mood, and cut your risk of chronic illnesses like heart disease and diabetes? Science says yes. Focusing on whole, balanced foods and watching portion sizes can make a real difference in your health journey.

Curious how to make nutrition your strongest ally? Dive into the essentials here:

A good diet and proper nutrition play a crucial role in maintaining your overall health. Learn how the right foods can improve your health, prevent illness, and enhance your well-being.

03/12/2026

Where we've been pulling from for next week's issue:

03/12/2026

New research suggests colorectal cancer screening could work just as well and use far fewer colonoscopies if people start with simple stool tests and switch later in life. Another study finds many adults actually report better health after retiring, even as countries raise retirement ages. And a global analysis highlights common patterns of multiple chronic conditions in older adults, offering clues for how health systems can better plan for aging populations. - https://mailchi.mp/pubtrawlr.com/rethinking-cancer-screening-and-retirement-health

03/10/2026

Public Service = Not for the easily disappointed!

This experience made me reflect on the challenges school districts are facing today and why they matter not just for educators, but for anyone working in public health, workforce development, or community systems change.

03/10/2026

As AI chatbots like ChatGPT become go-to “therapists” for millions, a new study uncovers major ethical failures. These systems mishandle crises, reinforce harmful beliefs, and deliver fake empathy without true understanding. Are we risking real harm by turning to AI for mental health support? The implications demand urgent attention.

As millions turn to ChatGPT and other AI chatbots for therapy-style advice, new research from Brown University raises a serious red flag: even when instructed to act like trained therapists, these systems routinely break core ethical standards of mental health care. In side-by-side evaluations with....

03/05/2026

Not all screen time affects teens the same way: new research shows video games and internet use are linked to lower well-being almost immediately. We also explore why many U.S. veterans still face homelessness during the fragile transition to civilian life and what practical steps could prevent crisis before it begins. Plus, new research shows the connection between climate change and antibiotic resistance is overlooked, but a One Health approach could strengthen global health policy. - https://mailchi.mp/pubtrawlr.com/fighting-climate-change-and-superbugs

03/03/2026

When communities lead maternity care, First Nations babies thrive—and outdated systems fall behind.

A new study found that an Aboriginal-led program in rural NSW helped more women give birth naturally, breastfeed exclusively, and access culturally safe supports. Unlike mainstream hospitals, this program wraps care around the whole woman—her culture, her family, and her life challenges. For public health pros and advocates, this is a wake-up call: real change happens when Indigenous communities steer their own maternal health.

Are we ready to fully back these community-led models nationwide?

We break this down every week in This Week in Public Health.

A new study into the clinical effectiveness of a rural Birthing on Country service—compared to mainstream maternity services—has revealed First Nations women had significantly more normal vaginal births, were more likely to be exclusively breastfeeding upon hospital discharge, and had greater en...

03/03/2026

Millions of Africans risk losing basic rights because biometric ID systems exclude and endanger them.

These digital ID programs promise easier access to healthcare, voting, and social services. But for many—especially those with disabilities, from marginalized groups, or lacking trust—these systems create new barriers instead of breaking them down. Without strong laws and oversight, the same technology meant to include risks deepens inequality and violates rights. As public health professionals and advocates, how are you seeing digital ID impact access and equity where you work?

We break this down every week in This Week in Public Health.

Across Africa, governments are introducing digital systems that use individuals' unique physical measurements to identify them. These systems collect citizens' biometric and personal data and use it to give people access to essential public services like voting, health care, education and social pro...