SUMMARY: Kathleen Clark faced an unexpected $960 prepayment request from her OB-GYN during her pregnancy, a practice increasingly reported by pregnant women. Often, these upfront fees occur before the pregnancy concludes, creating financial strain and anxiety. Advocacy groups criticize this as unethical, arguing it can deter women from seeking necessary care. Although providers claim prepayments ensure compensation, the approach complicates billing and may force unwanted decisions on patients. With U.S. maternity care costs averaging nearly $3,000 out-of-pocket, many families struggle financially, raising concerns about equitable access to prenatal services. The issue remains challenging to regulate due to industry lobbying.

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The post Pay First, Deliver Later: Some Women Are Being Asked To Prepay for Their Baby appeared first on kffhealthnews.org

SUMMARY: California is using state and federal stockpiles to provide up to 10,000 farmworkers with safety gear as the state reports 21 human cases of bird flu. The state began distributing protective equipment in May and has confirmed bird flu at over 270 dairies. Drawing lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, California is improving emergency responses and maintaining a stockpile that includes millions of face masks. However, due to financial constraints, funding for disaster supplies has been cut, and some preparedness programs were reduced or eliminated. A ballot measure to increase pandemic preparedness funding failed after its key financial supporter was convicted.

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The post As California Taps Pandemic Stockpile for Bird Flu, Officials Keep Close Eye on Spending appeared first on kffhealthnews.org

SUMMARY: Dr. Mona Hanna, a pediatrician in Flint, Michigan, is championing the Rx Kids program, a pioneering cash aid initiative that provides $1,500 mid-pregnancy and $500 monthly for a child’s first year to Flint families. Since its January launch, nearly all babies born in Flint are enrolled, aiding parents with essential needs like diapers and food. While Rx Kids aims to reduce poverty and inspire lawmakers and donors, challenges remain for expansion in underserved regions like Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where substantial private funding is needed. Ongoing efforts seek to raise awareness and secure resources for this impactful program.

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The post After Congress Ended Extra Cash Aid for Families, Communities Tackle Child Poverty Alone appeared first on kffhealthnews.org