As I travel through Indiana's rural communities, I often hear stories that highlight the urgent need for improved health care access. One story that sticks with me is about a single mother from a small town who had to drive over an hour just to find a doctor who could prescribe her son's asthma medication. This is not just an anecdote; it reflects a larger crisis affecting many Hoosiers. ... Read More
The Department of Health and Human Services defines telehealth as access to a health care provider without an in-person office visit. Telehealth expands health care access by making services more convenient and available to those with limited mobility, in rural or underserved areas, or with busy schedules. ... Read More
As open enrollment season approaches, choosing the right health insurance plan is one of the most important decisions individuals and families can make. In today’s health care landscape, it is crucial to select a provider that prioritizes affordability, accessibility and comprehensive care.... Read More
As the back-to-school season fast approaches, families, educators and communities begin focusing on preparing students for a successful academic year. Amid the frenzy of buying supplies and adjusting routines, there is an essential component of this preparation that extends beyond the classroom: comprehensive health support.... Read More
While regular check-ups, screenings and preventative care measures are essential for maintaining good physical health, they can often be out of reach for people facing financial difficulties. When funds are scarce, the most immediate needs—food and housing—usually take priority and, unless the situation is dire, health care can get pushed to the back burner. ... Read More
Indiana's mix of urban and rural communities provides a good opportunity to understand how interconnected our state’s health care landscape really is. No community is an island, and the ups and downs of one have more of an impact elsewhere than we may initially think. Accordingly, working collaboratively to promote preventative care and increase access in one area can help create healthier communities everywhere.... Read More
Maternal health serves as a cornerstone of public health, reflecting not only the well-being of individual mothers and their babies, but the health and strength of Hoosier communities as a whole. According to the Indiana University Public Policy Institute’s Center for Research on Inclusion and Social Policy, Indiana has the third highest maternal mortality rate among all reporting states.... Read More
Embarking on a journey towards a healthy lifestyle begins at home, and integrating sports at an early age can be a transformative approach for families. However, this integration does not come without its challenges.... Read More
Nearly 12 percent of adult Hoosiers are diagnosed with diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. But that doesn’t mean the rest of us are out of the woods.... Read More
One in nine people in Indiana faces hunger. While many Hoosiers have rebounded from the challenges posed by the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, things are worse for many in our communities, particularly when it comes to food insecurity.... Read More
