If you want to stay informed about health and medicine news, make sure to subscribe to STAT’s free newsletter Morning Rounds for your daily dose.
A recent study published in JAMA Network Open revealed that the public tends to view physicians who utilize artificial intelligence as less competent, less trustworthy, and less empathetic. The findings, although based on a small sample size, shed light on the perception of AI in the medical field.
In other news, President Trump and the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement are advocating for the use of cane sugar in Coke and natural dyes in ice cream instead of synthetic ingredients. While the initiative aims to address the high rates of chronic disease linked to ultra-processed foods, experts caution that simply swapping out specific ingredients may not lead to improved health outcomes.
On a concerning note, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has signed an agreement with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to access Medicaid data for tracking undocumented immigrants. This move could deter individuals from seeking emergency medical assistance, raising fears within immigrant communities.
The Republican tax bill, recently signed into law, is projected to result in a spike in deaths among individuals seeking treatment for opioid addiction due to cuts in Medicaid. Health economists warn that the reduction in Medicaid coverage for addiction treatment could lead to approximately 1,000 additional fatal overdoses annually.
Amidst these developments, Mark Cruz, a senior adviser on American Indian health, aims to address chronic disease and nutrition issues within Native communities. However, challenges persist within the Indian Health Service, raising concerns about the delivery of healthcare services to American Indians.
Additionally, advocacy efforts are underway to raise awareness about Medicaid cuts impacting home aides for individuals with disabilities. Carl Schulze’s wheelchair-powered journey to advocate for higher wages for home aides highlights the importance of Medicaid in supporting vulnerable populations.
In the realm of vaping, Juul has received approval to keep its tobacco- and menthol-flavored products on the market for adult smokers. While regulators acknowledge the harm reduction potential for adult smokers, they caution against non-smokers using e-cigarettes.
These are just a few of the key points in the ever-evolving landscape of health and medicine news. Stay informed and engaged with the latest updates to make informed decisions about your well-being.