SUMMARY: Toby Ewing, director of California’s Mental Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission, traveled to London this summer, funded by the digital mental health company Kooth, while he advocated against a proposed $360 million budget cut that would affect Kooth’s contract. Ewing lobbied legislative staff to preserve funding amid California’s $45 billion deficit. Despite initial uncertainty, lawmakers ultimately restored the funding during Ewing’s trip. Whistleblower complaints allege Ewing’s actions benefitted a private company, raising ethical concerns. Recently placed on administrative leave, Ewing’s conduct is under investigation while Kooth continues its partnership with California in providing youth mental health services.

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SUMMARY: Over 600 frozen waffle products from various brands are being recalled due to potential listeria contamination, detected through routine testing at a manufacturing facility. Fortunately, there have been no confirmed cases of illness or death associated with these products. They are sold at major retailers like Target and Walmart, which have responded by removing the affected items from stores and placing sales restrictions on them. The increase in listeria recalls is attributed to a more complex food supply chain, higher consumer demand for ready-to-eat processed foods, and advances in testing that allow for better detection of foodborne pathogens.

More than 600 frozen waffle products are being voluntarily recalled due to a potential listeria contamination.

KFF Health News’ Celiné Gounder joined CBS Mornings to discuss what to do if you have one of the affected products.
#waffles #listeria

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SUMMARY: Cailyn Morreale feared her pregnancy while on buprenorphine for opioid addiction, worrying about separating from her newborn due to withdrawal symptoms. Traditionally, many doctors used medication-heavy regimens, resulting in separation from mothers and NICU stays. However, the new “Eat, Sleep, Console” approach allows babies to stay with their mothers, showing that comfort and familial connection often lead to quicker recoveries. Studies reveal this method reduces hospital stays and promotes better outcomes. Practitioners emphasize a shift toward family-centered care, empowering mothers and reducing stigma, ultimately ensuring healthier bonding experiences for families affected by addiction.

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The post Mothering Over Meds: Docs Say Common Treatment for Opioid-Exposed Babies Isn’t Necessary appeared first on kffhealthnews.org