Public Policy "NEWS"

Patient assistance programs (PAPs) are a critical lifeline for many people who need access to life-saving or life-changing medications but cannot afford them. These programs are offered by pharmaceutical companies, foundations, and other organizations to help patients pay for their medications. There are several reasons why safeguarding and advocating for PAPs is important. First, PAPs help to ensure that patients have access to the medications they need. This is especially important for people with chronic conditions, who may need to take medication for the rest of their lives. Without PAPs, these people would be unable to afford their medications and could suffer serious health consequences. Second, PAPs help to improve patient adherence. When patients know that they can get help paying for their medications, they are more likely to stay on their treatment plans. This is important because medication adherence is essential for achieving good health outcomes. Third, PAPs help to reduce

The history of American slavery highlights the role of white people in codifying racism into law. The chattel slavery system was race-based, with laws designed to control enslaved people targeting Black people. The Casual Killing Act of 1699, passed in Virginia, made it legal for masters to kill their slaves at will in the process of inflicting punishment. This law distinguished between the punishment of Black enslaved people and White indentured servants, allowing Black people to be killed casually by enslavers without fear of reprisal. This racist blame-the-victim culture attempts to explain away the brutality experienced by Black people and normalize violence. American policing, which punishes non-compliance with brutality or death, dehumanizes Black people and prevents them from resisting the fight-or-flight response.  According to Berkeley Law , American jurisprudence and law have profoundly shaped, defined, and constrained the lives of Black people for over 400 years. Racial ineq

A target letter is a formal notification from the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) that a person is the target of a criminal investigation. The letter is typically sent by the United States Attorney's Office or the DOJ and is a formal notification that you are the target of an investigation. The letter will typically state that the DOJ has "substantial evidence linking [you] to the commission of a crime" and that you may be indicted. The letter will also advise you of your rights, including the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Target letters are not uncommon in white collar crime cases. They are often used as a way to give the target a heads up that they are under investigation and to encourage them to cooperate with the investigation. If you receive a target letter, it is important to consult with an attorney immediately. An attorney can help you understand your rights and options and can represent you in the investigation and any subsequent

It is important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of what are safe cosmetics. Some people may be more sensitive to certain chemicals than others. It is always best to err on the side of caution and choose products that are free of harmful chemicals. Safe cosmetics are those that do not contain harmful chemicals that can potentially cause health problems. These chemicals can be absorbed through the skin or ingested when ingested. Some of the most common harmful chemicals found in cosmetics include: Phthalates: These chemicals are used to make plastics more flexible and are often found in nail polish, hairspray, and lotion. Phthalates have been linked to reproductive problems, cancer, and developmental disorders. Formaldehyde: This chemical is used as a preservative in many cosmetics, including makeup, shampoo, and deodorant. Formaldehyde can cause allergic reactions and has been linked to cancer. Parabens: These chemicals are used as preservatives in many

CMS issued a proposal Friday to cut reimbursements to home health providers by 2.2% next year, or an estimated $375 million less than 2023 levels. On June 30, 2023, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) proposed a 2.2% cut to Medicare home health payments in 2024. This would amount to a loss of $375 million for home health agencies. The proposed cut is due to a number of factors, including the implementation of the Patient-Driven Groupings Model (PDGM), which is a new payment system for home health services. The PDGM is designed to better align payments with the cost of providing home health services. However, some home health agencies have argued that the PDGM is not adequately compensating them for the services they provide. They have also said that the proposed cut will make it more difficult for them to provide quality care to Medicare beneficiaries. The CMS is currently accepting public comments on the proposed cut. The agency will make a final decision on the cut

The US Environmental Protection Agency proposed strict limits on six per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water. It's the first time the government has moved to  regulate PFAS , a class of thousands of chemicals used in everything from dental floss and toilet paper, to common furniture treatments and food packaging. Read more

There are many positive affirmative action ideas that can be implemented to help create a more equitable and inclusive society. Some examples include: Recruiting and hiring more women and minorities in leadership positions. This can help to ensure that all voices are heard and that decisions are made in the best interests of everyone. Providing scholarships and financial assistance to students from underrepresented groups. This can help to level the playing field and make education more accessible to everyone. Creating training programs and mentorship opportunities for women and minorities. This can help them to develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the workplace. Promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace. This can help to create a more welcoming and supportive environment for all employees. Addressing unconscious bias in hiring and promotion decisions.   This can help to ensure that everyone is treated fairly, regardless of their race, gender, or other pers