State of Health

Edward Lofton and his mother Joanna Lofton, community resource specialist at the Autism Alliance of Michigan. Edward lives with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and, like many people with ASD, has faced unique challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Michigan organizations help people living with autism reduce risks of COVID-19

COVID-19 has inflicted a disproportionate burden on many groups, but one of the least recognized is people living with autism spectrum disorder.

With COVID cases peaking, Michigan seeks solutions to health care worker shortage

Michigan health care leaders are advocating for investments to support staffing needs in hospitals, nursing facilities, emergency medical services, and workforce training programs.

Kevin Fischer.
Michigan prepares for long-term mental health effects of COVID-19

The pandemic's mental health impacts are expected to remain for the long term – and many of Michigan’s communities, mental health professionals, and researchers are already preparing to address them.

Kathy Dollard is the director of behavioral health services at MyMichigan Health.
Year in review: Behavioral health with Kathy Dollard

A year in review and a look ahead with the director of behavioral health services at MyMichigan Health, Kathy Dollard.

Dr. Susan Goold and Dr. Renuka Tipirneni have been working on the University of Michigan's evaluation of Michigan's Medicaid expansion.
Michigan’s Medicaid expansion leads to lower uninsured rates, improved health, and cost savings

The state is looking back to examine how the 2014 introduction of the Healthy Michigan Plan has improved health for Michigan residents who otherwise could not afford health insurance.

Michigan projects aim to dismantle racism at the root of maternal and infant deaths

Racism is killing mothers and babies in Michigan – and initiatives across the state are working to tackle that root cause and save lives.

Scott Hutchins, school mental health and Medicaid consultant for the Michigan Department of Education Office of Health and Nutrition Services.
Michigan schools adopt new software to expand mental health services

All 56 of the state's ISDs now have access to a software product for managing behavioral health referrals, screenings, treatment plans, and more.

Under-recognized frontline workers help spread word on COVID-19 vaccine in Michigan

Community health workers have been integral to getting the word out about COVID-19 vaccine safety and effectiveness. 

Dr. Leslie Pelkey, Cherry Health’s chief medical officer.
Lack of broadband access is a barrier to health care – and Michigan is aiming to eliminate it

COVID-19 exposed Michigan's digital divide, and its sobering effect on residents' ability to access health care during the pandemic. But efforts are underway to address it.

A DIGs workshop on asemma, or tobacco.
Here’s how the UP’s Debweyendan Indigenous Gardens build health, community, and food sovereignty

The sprawling community gardens aim to celebrate and preserve the knowledge and cultural identity of tribal people living in and around the village of L’Anse.

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