It's a paradox of public health: government programs that provide healthcare for undocumented immigrants or support services for drug users are controversial. But without them in place, taxpayers ultimately end up paying more -- for stays in the hospital or jail. We have two such tales this week. Also, good news on HPV, bad news on HIV; and hospitals that turn pregnant women away.
Bad Kidneys, Bad Care, For High Costs
For people with kidney failure, the standard recommendation is dialysis every two or three days. But some undocumented immigrants can't get dialysis until they're really sick, which means they sometimes end up in the ER before their next appointment. In Indianapolis, Side Effects' Jake Harper has this story.
HPV Vaccine Cuts Infection Rates For Young Women and Girls
Considering that only about 40% of teen girls receive the vaccine, researchers are pleasantly surprised by the results of a study published in Pediatrics this week. The hope is that these results will help reduce parents' queasiness about getting their preteens vaccinated against a sexually transmitted disease. KPCC has the details.
Upstate NY Mayor Proposes Country's First Supervised Injection Site
Provide a safe place for drug users to inject with nurses on staff in case of overdose. It's a radical idea in the United States, but it's been in practice for years in Canada and Europe. Side Effects reporter Michelle Faust talked with drug policy expert Daniel Raymond, who says supervised injection sites are worth considering.
HIV On The Rise Among Black And Latino Gay Men
At current rates, half of black and one quarter of Latino gay or bisexual men will be diagnosed with HIV in their lifetimes. NPR spoke with psychologist Juan Carlos Loubriel, a community health worker who is gay and Latino, about the importance of improving access and reducing stigma.
You Can't Have That Baby Here, Ma'am
We've told you about several strategies hospitals in rural areas are employing to stay open: from forming partnerships to adding specialists and even making cash payment deals with Amish and Mennonite communities. But many rural hospitals are cutting back on services, and some are giving obstetrics the knife. Kaiser Health News has the story.
