From stigma to solutions: MBGH panel explores mental health paradigm shift in the workplace
At the recent Midwest Business Group on Health (MBGH) Mental Health Forum, experts emphasized the urgency of addressing workplace mental health issues, including alcohol use disorder, and the need for innovative treatments. emphasized the need for The panel discussion, moderated by Tom Sondergeld of McKinsey & Company, featured Amanda Wilson, MD, who advocated for alternative treatment approaches. Dr. Caitlin Stamatis talks about the rise of adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder diagnosis and digital treatments. Marcus Capone shares his personal experience with treatment-resistant depression. Meg Delp emphasizes the importance of reducing stigma. and Taryn Carleton, PharmD, discuss innovations in psychiatric pharmacy and digital healthcare.
New study reveals the impact of medical algorithms on racial disparities and patient outcomes
A recent study led by Shazia Mehmood Siddique, MD, MSHP, examined the impact of algorithms on racial and ethnic disparities in health care outcomes. A review of the literature over more than a decade reveals a complex relationship, with some algorithms exacerbating inequality while others mitigating it. This study identified her seven strategies to guide fair algorithmic practices, highlighting the importance of thoughtful design and implementation. Although this study acknowledges that the evidence is heterogeneous, it highlights the need for continued efforts to address disparities in medical algorithms.
New study links social factors to severity of hidradenitis suppurativa
A study presented at the 2024 American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting investigated the influence of social determinants of health (SDOH) on the severity of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), a debilitating disease of the skin. . Using geocoding and census tract-level data, researchers found a significant association between higher social vulnerability and more severe HS, with more severe HS in socially vulnerable areas. They found that severe cases were more than twice as likely to occur. Factors such as unemployment rate, lack of access to a vehicle, and limited internet access were weakly associated with severe HS. Further research at the national level is needed to validate these trends and provide better management strategies.
Contributor: Breaking the Cycle—RSAT Program Improving Reentry in Arizona
This article, written by Zach Zobel and Sarah Ratner, J.D., discusses the importance of addressing the health needs of justice-involved populations, who often face disparities in health outcomes and higher healthcare costs compared to the general population. are discussing. This content highlights California's pioneering ReEntry 1115 Waiver, which leverages Medicaid funds to assist individuals transitioning from incarceration. In addition, Arizona's successful Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT) program was validated as a model for effective reentry efforts, with its holistic approach, support for release planning, and support from fellow recovery professionals. Incorporation and cooperation with regional partners are demonstrated. The program's success in reducing recidivism rates and generating positive returns on investment highlights the importance of national reforms in reentry strategies, including curriculum development, community partnerships, and post-release It emphasizes the need for immediate medical connectivity and extensive drug treatment services for opioid use disorder.
Pat Van Burklio talks about Louisiana's food access efforts
In an interview with American Managed Care Journal®, Pat Van Burklio, executive director of Feeding Louisiana, talks about the organization's mission to address food access issues, especially in light of the decline in traditional pantry locations. Van Berklio emphasizes a shift towards food banks taking a more direct role in distributing food to those in need, especially in rural areas where resources are limited. He describes initiatives like mobile pantry stops, where trucks deliver food directly to local communities, as a way to reach individuals who don't have access to traditional pantry services.
