Health

Health
Shots can be scary and painful for kids. One doctor has a plan to end needle phobia
Research suggests the biggest source of pain for children in the health care system is needles. One California doctor says the fear of needles is a serious problem, but proposes some simple solutions.
Hospitals are fighting a Medicare payment fix that would save tax dollars
Medicare pays hospitals about double what it pays other providers for the same services. The hospital lobby is fighting hard to make sure a switch to "site-neutral payments" doesn't become law.
New program aims to help immigrant-owned hair and nail salons switch to safer products
Many hair and nail products contain toxic chemicals, but switching to safer products can be costly. A new outreach program aims to help salons take the first steps.
In Minnesota, jail deaths spiked last year despite new protections
Last year, 20 people died while in custody of Minnesota county jails. Justice advocates have called for more scrutiny of those deaths. A state official says mental health and addiction issues are key factors.
Social isolation takes a toll on a rising number of South Korea's young adults
A growing number of South Korea's young adults are isolating themselves from society, raising questions about the state of youths in a country known for cutthroat competition and pressure to conform.
COVID-19, flu and RSV continue to decline in Minnesota
The latest data show Minnesota’s hospitalization rates for COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) have declined for three straight weeks. In addition, COVID-19 levels measured in wastewater continue to decline in most parts of the state.