Many states grapple with getting insurance exchanges operational by the health-care law’s deadline of Jan. 1, 2012. India tries to improve its public health system. A recent study from the American Journal of Public Health discusses how legalising same-sex marriage may create a healthier enivonrment for gay men, evidenced by a decline in doctor visits. Read about this and more in today’s top public health headlines, Dec. 19, 2011.
The Washington Post – Concern growing over deadlines for health-care exchanges
With many states unwilling or unable to get insurance exchanges operational by the health-care law’s deadline of Jan. 1, 2014, pressure is growing on the federal government to do the job for them.
The Associated Press – States get a say on health benefits in Obama’s law
The Obama administration on Friday rolled out a benefits framework for millions of people who will get private insurance through the health care overhaul, but states will decide the specifics.
The Wall Street Journal – Five Ways to Improve Indian Health Care
The short answer to how India can improve its shaky public health system is one that everyone knows – spend a lot more. But you can spend a lot more and not get a lot more, warns K. Srinath Reddy, president of the Public Health Foundation of India.
BBC News – Gay Marriage ‘improves health’
Legalising same-sex marriage may create a healthier environment for gay men, say US researchers. The number of visits by gay men to health clinics dropped significantly after same-sex unions were allowed in the state Massachusetts. This was regardless of whether the men were in a stable relationship, reported the American Journal of Public Health.
TIME – Can Calorie Counts Convince Teens Not to Buy Sugary Drinks?
Does calorie information help consumers make healthier choices? Not always. But a new study finds that when calorie counts are presented in an easily understandable way, even teenagers — those experts in never listening to useful advice — can be persuaded to avoid high-sugar choices.
The New York Times – Increasingly, Smoking Indoors Is Forbidden at Public Housing
Glenys Cushman was grabbing a quick cigarette here the other day outside her federally subsidized apartment. The rules say no smoking inside or within 25 feet of the entrance, and though she hates having to go outside, she has come to accept it.
The New York Times – Health Care Law Will Let States Tailor Benefits
In a major surprise on the politically charged new health care law, the Obama administration said Friday that it would not define a single uniform set of “essential health benefits” that must be provided by insurers for tens of millions of Americans. Instead, it will allow each state to specify the benefits within broad categories.
