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CT contemplates doula certification, seeks input from those in the field
Jenna Carlesso, The Connecticut Mirror, June 3
Doulas offer physical and emotional support throughout pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. They also act as advocates, particularly for parents of color who are disproportionately affected by maternal and infant mortality. Connecticut is taking another step forward toward launching a certification program for doulas, a process that would allow those workers to seek Medicaid reimbursement and reach more people.
Faulty oxygen readings delayed COVID treatments for darker-skinned patients, study finds
Usha Lee McFarling, STAT, May 31
COVID-19 care, including distribution of lifesaving therapies, was significantly delayed for Black and Hispanic patients due to inaccurate oxygen readings from devices that can work poorly in darker-skinned individuals, according to a new study. The finding may be one reason much higher COVID-19 mortality rates have been seen in communities of color across the country.
Policy changes needed for CT residents to secure affordable health care, study shows
Andrew Larson, Hartford Business Journal, May 31
Connecticut’s Office of Health Strategy and Office of the State Comptroller recently announced the results of a study that found roughly 8,500 additional Connecticut households would be able to afford their basic needs, if policy changes are implemented that increase the affordability of health care.
Black patients more likely to face hospital security response, study shows
Sydney Halleman, Healthcare Dive, June 2
According to a new study, Black hospital patients are more likely to face a security emergency response call in hospitals than their white counterparts. The paper is the latest in a flurry of publications that have showcased racism that Black patients experience in hospital systems across the country.
Connecticut abortion providers prepare for influx of patients seeking safe haven for services
Harriet Jones, Connecticut Health I-Team, June 2
The potential end of the federal right to abortion care is a scary prospect for many, including abortion providers in Connecticut. They are currently working to make sure they can provide abortion navigation for patients coming from out of state, such as connecting a patient with financial resources from an abortion fund, arranging travel or lodging, or assuring they can get a timely appointment.
Related: Black women have much at stake in states where abortion access may switch, Blake Farmer, Nashville Public Radio, June 3