Connect with us

Kaiser Health News

7 of 10 States Backed Abortion Rights. But Little To Change Yet.

Published

on

kffhealthnews.org – Bram Sable-Smith – 2024-11-06 08:56:00

SUMMARY: In this recent election, voters supported abortion rights in seven out of ten states with ballot measures. States like Colorado, Maryland, Montana, and New York will add constitutional protections for abortion, while Arizona and Missouri reversed restrictive laws, enabling access until fetal viability. However, tight pre-existing laws mean actual access won’t change immediately, and legal battles will prolong the situation. Meanwhile, Florida and South Dakota rejected amendments to support abortion rights, highlighting ongoing divisions. The legal landscape remains complex and fluid, suggesting that while there are advancements, access is still hindered by existing rules and potential future federal restrictions.

Read the full article

The post 7 of 10 States Backed Abortion Rights. But Little To Change Yet. appeared first on kffhealthnews.org

Kaiser Health News

Toxic ‘Forever Chemicals’ Taint Rural California Drinking Water, Far From Known Sources

Published

on

kffhealthnews.org – Hannah Norman, KFF Health News – 2024-12-11 04:00:00

SUMMARY: Juana Valle, a farmer in California, is alarmed by toxic PFAS chemicals found in her well water, linked to health issues like cancer. Despite her dream of rural living and organic farming, the presence of PFAS—stemming potentially from local agricultural practices—has made her fearful of consuming her own produce. Nationwide, PFAS contamination is raising concerns, particularly in agricultural communities where untreated sewage sludge serves as fertilizer. With California facing severe drinking water contamination, particularly in communities of color, the issue highlights environmental justice and inadequacies in regulating private wells. Solutions and testing initiatives are in progress, but risks remain high.

Read the full article

The post Toxic ‘Forever Chemicals’ Taint Rural California Drinking Water, Far From Known Sources appeared first on kffhealthnews.org

Continue Reading

Kaiser Health News

Rural Governments Often Fail To Communicate With Residents Who Aren’t Proficient in English

Published

on

kffhealthnews.org – Jazmin Orozco Rodriguez – 2024-12-10 04:00:00

SUMMARY: Eloisa Mendoza has dedicated 18 years to assisting non-English speakers in Elko, Nevada, with legal documentation, a role increasingly vital as the Hispanic population rises. Despite growth in the number of residents speaking languages other than English, state language-access laws often exclude rural areas from necessary support. Legislators face challenges in implementing these laws amidst limited resources and resistance from local leaders. Research indicates significant gaps in language access, affecting health care and public information during emergencies like COVID-19. Mendoza advocates for bilingual ballots to enhance voter understanding, highlighting the ongoing need for equitable communication in diverse communities.

Read the full article

The post Rural Governments Often Fail To Communicate With Residents Who Aren’t Proficient in English appeared first on kffhealthnews.org

Continue Reading

Kaiser Health News

Resources Are Expanding for Older Adults on Their Own

Published

on

kffhealthnews.org – Judith Graham – 2024-12-09 04:00:00

SUMMARY: Seniors Jeff Kromrey, Gayle Williams-Brett, and Michael Davis are taking proactive steps for “solo aging” after participating in Dorot’s Aging Alone Together program in New York City. With more seniors aging alone, the course helps them connect, build support systems, and prepare for future health challenges. Participants address key issues like establishing living wills and managing finances while fostering a sense of community. Though they face feelings of isolation, the program encourages seniors to overcome fears and take control of their aging process. Resources for solo agers are increasingly available online and in-person, highlighting the need for connection.

Read the full article

The post Resources Are Expanding for Older Adults on Their Own appeared first on kffhealthnews.org

Continue Reading

Trending