Michigan is tied for the fewest behavioral health vocational training programs in the nation, contributing to a school mental health workforce shortage.
Michigan Health Watch
In-depth reporting on the intersection between public policy and important health topics ‒ such as insurance coverage, hospital admissions, opioid abuse, access to care, medical research and the business of health care ‒ that impact nearly every Michigan resident.
Two projects at U-M Sparrow to expand psychiatric health services, surgery beds
The projects, estimated to cost nearly $150 million, will include a new psychiatric hospital offering in-patient care for children and adolescents for the Lansing region and partial hospitalization programs.
‘Green Houses’ offer cozier alternative to Michigan nursing homes
Two programs are helping older Detroit area residents avoid nursing homes, improving care and potentially saving tax dollars.
So why aren’t there more of them?
Oakland County diverts mental health patients to ERs amid crisis center takeover
Critics fear service disruptions as Oakland County’s community mental health agency asks law enforcement to divert crisis cases to local emergency departments.
Got raw milk? Michigan proposal would legalize wider sales
Republican-backed bills would allow Michigan farmers to sell unpasteurized milk directly to consumers. Critics contend there would be health risks, but supporters say consumers should be able to decide.
Michigan wants schools ready for cardiac emergencies, fails to provide funds
A recent Michigan law requires schools to better prepare for cardiac emergencies. But without money from the state, some schools lack resources to put those measures in place.
Purer meth, less pure opioids, more cocaine hit Michigan, testing reveals
State drug lab results show methamphetamine users now get their stuff from Mexican cartels, not homemade labs. Meanwhile, opioids are being cut with sedatives that make overdose treatments ineffective.
Supporters tout benefits of kratom, but will it stall Michigan drug fight?
A kratom derivative known as 7-OH targets the same receptors as painkillers and opioids. Experts say the products, sold in colorful packages, especially endanger children and people battling addiction.
Michigan cash-for-moms program launches in Detroit, expanding in UP
Applications are open in Detroit. In March, the popular cash aid program is slated to grow across the rest of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Henry Ford sells a SE Michigan hospital to mental health provider
A Warren-based behavioral health provider will open a 100-bed behavioral health hospital at Henry Ford Health’s Madison Heights hospital once Henry Ford vacates it.