State Health Notes

State Health Notes
September 2003 Issues

Volume 24, Number 404: September 22, 2003

COVER STORY
With 41 million Americans in the ranks of the uninsured and states strapped for cash, local governments are pitching in to help. A look at innovative county-run initiatives in Michigan and Florida.

STATE SPEAK
Thanks to the leadership of Gov. John Baldacci, Maine is moving a step closer to universal health care. The governor talks about implementation of “Dirigo Health.”

HIGHLIGHTS
FL Medicaid payment accuracy… Health insurance “scams”… Health insurance overview… LA help for grandparents raising grandchildren … Financial status of NYC hospitals … IA nurse tracking study… Survey on bioterrorism preparedness… AZ community health profiles… Safety belt use… Survey on drug, alcohol dependence, abuse… Emergency drug abuse grant for Baltimore

TRACKING TRENDS
State mandated benefits are up 40-fold since 1970. Of late, lawmakers are looking more closely at costs.

FYI
Colorado’s “On the Move” pilot is going national. The goal is to get Americans to walk more, eat less.

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Volume 24, Number 403: September 8, 2003

COVER STORY
Two years after the Sept. 11 attacks, Americans continue to underestimate the responsibilities public health departments have in fighting disease, whether natural or man-made. Despite states’ budget constraints, changes to strengthen the infrastructure are the works.

HIGHLIGHTS
FL, MO malpractice reforms… Cardiovascular disease risk factors … Palliative care grants, training

FYI
Maryland’s Family Connections program seeks to end child abuse and neglect by shoring up social supports for at-risk families.

FEATURE STORY
Each day in the U.S., 2,000 kids become new, regular cigarette smokers. Why do they start and what are states doing to put an end to the trend? Taxes, education and enforcement are key responses.

HEALTH TALK
Cheryl Healton, president and CEO of the American Legacy Foundation, talks of the challenges of creating a tobacco-free society.

VITAL SIGNS
Teen and adult smoking trends; “fast facts” on teen smoking habits.

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