Morning Briefing
Summaries of health policy coverage from major news organizations
Viewpoints: Extreme Heat Is Our Reality, But Fatalities Don't Have To Be; America Has A Real Tick Problem
Bloomberg: Extreme Heat Is A Fact Of Summer. Its Health Harms Don't Have To Be
As yet another heat dome settles over part of the US, a depressingly predictable news cycle is unfolding. This week, the headlines will warn of dangerously high temperatures; next week, they’ll chronicle the human toll. (Lisa Jarvis, 7/13)
The New York Times: We’re Living In A Tick Nightmare. It’s Time To Go To War.
The alarming surge in cases of severe tick-borne diseases underscores how quickly the risks of infection are changing. (Jonathan Mingle, 7/11)
Stat: Shortage Of Forensic Pathologists Is Now Critical
Across the United States, the shortage of forensic pathologists has reached a critical level. According to the National Association of Medical Examiners (NAME), only about 850 forensic pathologists are currently practicing nationwide — roughly 400 fewer than the number needed to meet today’s demands, as more than 3 million Americans die each year. (Gregory McDonald, 7/13)
The Atlantic: The Unintended Consequences Of Genetic Tests
Data on inherited maladies can save lives, but can also complicate them. (Elizabeth Bruenig, 7/12)
Stat: Airlines Depend On Doctor Volunteers
On three of my last seven flights, a request came over the cabin speakers: “Is there a doctor on board?” Like many physicians, I responded automatically. What struck me afterward was not the frequency of those requests but how unremarkable the whole process seemed — to the crew, to other passengers, and, eventually, to me. (Sriman Swarup, 7/13)
