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Survey finds Black adults develop unique coping skills for racism
Stacy M. Brown, The Washington Informer, July 10
Black adults in the United States develop coping skills to handle the chronic stress of racism, according to a new study. Researchers said those coping mechanisms are typically not found in white adults. Social support and religion are among the most common coping strategies used by Black Americans. The study found gender differences in those strategies. Black women are more likely to engage in activism and social support while Black men often used more passive strategies. Researchers said the study underscores the need for culturally informed mental health support.
Adopt-A-Mom: How this North Carolina county is fighting for maternal health care
Marielle Argueza, The 19th News, July 10
In North Carolina’s Guilford County, mothers-to-be can receive financial aid through a program called Adopt-A-Mom. It helps coordinate prenatal care for expectant parents who are ineligible for Medicaid and who are experiencing a low- to medium-risk pregnancy. It’s existed for decades, in an effort to eliminate disparities in prenatal care and parenthood. The program was created in response to studies into the reasons behind the high rates of infant mortality that found that many pregnant people were either underinsured or didn’t qualify for Medicaid. Since its founding, Adopt-A-Mom has helped nearly 10,000 people.
Immigrant physicians: A solution to workforce shortages?
Katy Golvala, The Connecticut Mirror, July 14
Immigrant physicians face many barriers when trying to obtain necessary licenses and training to practice in the United States. Some states are now trying to address workforce shortages by making it easier for these doctors to practice. Advocates also point to opportunities for those doctors to provide culturally competent care to immigrant patients in the U.S. While some visa programs do allow international doctors to practice in the U.S., they come with mandates and limits.
Commission on gun violence finds large racial gap in fatal shootings
Jamil Ragland, CT News Junkie, July 11
In Connecticut, Black males were about 30 times more likely to be killed by gun violence than white males. New data from the Commission on Community Gun Violence Intervention and Prevention found that from 2020 to 2023, Black males experienced just under 31 homicides by firearm per 100,000 people, compared to nine for Hispanic men and less than one for white males. “I’m interested to see how the data drives interventions and are we targeting where we see the most need,” said Jodi Hill-Lilly, commissioner of the Department of Children and Families.
Dental access is an American ‘crisis’: Here’s how vulnerable people are shut out
Ken Alltucker, USA Today, July 14
In the United States, tens of millions of people do not have dental insurance. For those who are insured, out-of-pocket costs are so high that many struggle to pay them. Federal law doesn’t mandate adult dental insurance, which means millions of people are denied care if they cannot afford it. Harold Krieg is among those experiencing the fallout. The 62-year-old was quoted $35,000 for the dental work he needs to relieve his pain. After trying many avenues, he’s contemplated if getting sick will be his only way to get help, because Medicare covers some dental procedures for cancer patients before they start chemotherapy.