SUMMARY: The wildfires ravaging Los Angeles County are severely affecting residents, healthcare facilities, and first responders. Hospitals are strained as clinics close, medical appointments are canceled, and providers are evacuated or have lost homes. At City of Hope, oncologist Ravi Salgia evacuated his family before rushing to help prepare for possible evacuations at the hospital. Major hospitals are on high alert, treating burn and smoke inhalation patients, while nursing homes have evacuated over 700 residents. Power outages and road closures add to operational challenges, impacting routine medical care and staffing as healthcare workers continue to prioritize patient needs amid the chaos.

Read the full article

The post Doctors, Nurses Press Ahead as Wildfires Strain Los Angeles’ Health Care appeared first on kffhealthnews.org

SUMMARY: Climate change significantly impacts the emotional well-being of young people, leading to anxiety and feelings of helplessness about the future. Research reveals that many adolescents, like 14-year-old Abby Rafeek from California, express stress over climate events, including wildfires and floods. A survey indicated that 89% of U.S. teenagers worry about the environment, with many fearing personal consequences from climate change. Experts suggest integrating climate-related queries into mental health screenings and emphasize the importance of open conversations with children. Engaging in environmental activities can help mitigate feelings of powerlessness, turning worries into advocacy and proactive efforts.

Read the full article

The post Climate Change Threatens the Mental Well-Being of Youths. Here’s How To Help Them Cope. appeared first on kffhealthnews.org

SUMMARY: Montana’s Medicaid expansion program, which provides healthcare for over 75,000 low-income residents at a cost of about $1 billion annually, faces a pivotal debate in the 2025 legislature due to a 2019 bill’s end date of June 30, 2025. Legislative leaders expect discussions on renewal will intertwine with other health policies, like behavioral health funding and hospital regulations. Governor Gianforte supports continued funding but insists on work requirements. While Republicans express skepticism about Medicaid’s costs, Democrats advocate for its permanence. Additionally, abortion regulations are anticipated despite a recent constitutional vote affirming abortion rights in Montana.

Read the full article

The post Medicaid Expansion Debate Will Affect Other Health Policy Issues Before Montana Legislature appeared first on kffhealthnews.org