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The recommended ratio of school counselors to students is 250 to 1. (Adobe Stock)<br />

Mental health in focus as MD kids head back to school

As kids head back to school, advocates are calling for expanded access to school-based mental health services in Maryland and nationwide. The …

There are more than 800,000 students enrolled in Maryland's 24 local school systems. (Adobe Stock)

Experts remind MD parents to schedule checkups for back to school

As summer winds down, experts are reminding parents about an often-overlooked aspect of back-to-school readiness: an annual health checkup for …

The number of Maryland seniors reporting insufficient sleep increased to 29%, according to the American's Health Rankings Senior Report from the United Health Foundation. (Adobe Stock)

Report: MD senior health ranks 10th in nation; challenges remain

A new report found Maryland's older residents face worsening physical and behavioral health and looks at the possible reasons. The America's Health …

The initial phase of the Maryland Tutoring Corps Grant Program will reach 80,000 students in the state. (Adobe Stock/AntonioDiaz)

Report: Maryland ranks 22nd nationally in overall child well-being

The Annie E. Casey Foundation has published its annual Kids Count Data Book and the report showed the toll the pandemic took on educational progress…

Nationally, more than 9 million adults with asthma live in counties receiving a failing grade for at least one air pollutant, according to the American Lung Association. (Adobe Stock)

MD air quality highlighted during Asthma Awareness Month

May is Asthma Awareness Month and a report on air quality shows mixed results for Marylanders. The American Lung Association recently released its 25…

Some states disenrolled so many children that they had fewer enrolled than prior to the pandemic. (Adobe Stock)

Report: Millions disenrolled from CHIP nationwide

As pandemic-era protections were lifted a new report showed the number of children on Medicaid has varied widely between states, with Maryland doing …

The Environmental Working Group said multiple studies indicate pesticide levels in the body drop when people adopt an all-organic diet. (Adobe Stock/AI)

Report: 75% of conventionally grown produce has pesticide residue

Marylanders shopping for fresh produce may want to consider a new report that finds chemical residues in much of the crop. In its 2024 "Shoppers …

A draft rule would require Maryland employers to provide at least 32 ounces of water per hour to each employee exposed to heat stress conditions, every workday. (Adobe Stock)

MD Labor Dept. finalizing new heat stress standard for workers

With hotter summers bringing hotter working conditions, the Maryland Department of Labor is implementing a heat stress standard to protect workers …

Insurers would be prohibited from charging for access to the online real-time benefits system. (Adobe Stock)

MD Assembly considers reforms to health-insurance coverage

Committees in both chambers of the General Assembly are hearing testimony on a measure to change how health insurance companies in Maryland make treat…

Active radon mitigation involves a pipe installed under the foundation leading outside the home with a fan to draw radon away from the structure. (Francesco Scatena/Adobe Stock)

Marylanders encouraged to test for radon this winter

January is National Radon Action Month, and officials are asking Marylanders to test their homes for the radioactive gas. After smoking, radon is the …

The report found the number of Americans with diabetes was nearly 32 million, an 11% increase over last year. (Adobe Stock)

Maryland ranks 11th in nation in new health report

A new report by the United Health Foundation shows some good news in Maryland along with concerning trends in chronic conditions. The America's …

Nationally only 26% of cases are diagnosed at an early stage when survival rates are much higher. (Adobe Stock)<br />

Report: MD needs to do more for high-risk lung cancer population

The American Lung Association has released its annual State of Lung Cancer report - showing Maryland needs to do more for high-risk patients…

A United Health Foundation report found the number of women's health care providers declined by 7% nationally between 2019 and 2021. (Adobe Stock)

Report ranks Maryland 11th in health of women, children

A new report covering women's and children's health shows Maryland is doing well overall, but some concerning trends have emerged. The 2023 Health …

In March, Gov. Wes Moore announced Maryland would adopt the Advanced Clean Cars II standard. <br />(Adobe Stock)

$900 Billion in Health Benefits Likely from EV, Green Energy Adoption

With air quality in the news of late, a new report found transitioning to electric vehicles would bring major public health benefits. The American …

The new Kids Count Data Book indicates 54% of 3- and 4-year-olds in Maryland were not enrolled in preschool programs between 2017 and 2021. (Adobe Stock)

Report: Maryland Ranks 21st for Child Well-being

The new Kids Count Data Book found the child care system still struggling in the wake of the pandemic. The Annie E. Casey Foundation report showed …

Maryland maintains an air monitoring network of 24 sites through the state, measuring ground level concentrations of six common pollutants. (Jennifer J. Taylor/Adobe Stock)

Wildfire Smoke Produces Worst MD Air Quality in Decades

As smoke from Canadian wildfires drifts over the state, researchers from the University of Maryland are flying into the smoke plumes to measure …

Researchers found cities with the highest ParkScore rankings are healthier places to live based on the metrics of physical inactivity and mental health. (Adobe Stock)

ParkScore Rankings Name Washington D.C. Nation’s Best

The nonprofit Trust for Public Land has published its annual ParkScore rankings, and some area cities are high on the list. Washington, D.C.…

A tick must be attached for 36 to 48 hours to transmit the Lyme bacteria. (Adobe Stock)

Increasing Cases of Lyme Disease in Dogs Highlighted During April

April is Prevent Lyme disease in Dogs Month, and animal health experts are getting the word out about tick borne diseases in pets. Over the past two …

A new EPA rule will limit inhalable particles with diameters of 10 micrometers and smaller. (Adobe Stock)

EPA Finalizing New Air Quality Rule

The Environmental Protection Agency is in the process of finalizing a new rule to improve air quality in America. The proposal will lower the amount …

The Williams Institute estimates that 1.3 million U.S. adults identify as transgender. (Adobe Stock)

MD House and Senate Approve Trans Health Equity Act

Both chambers of the Maryland legislature have passed a bill that would require the state's Medicaid program to cover gender affirming care. While …

Estimates indicate 8.6% of children in Maryland will be bereaved by age 18, which is higher than the national average of 7.7%. (Adobe Stock)

Conference in Baltimore to Focus on Childhood Grief

Knowing how to hold space for the grief of children can be complex, but learning how to do it is vital for their well-being. A death in the family …

Maryland's Broadband Expansion Incentive Act has 74 cosponsors, including a dozen House Republicans. (Adobe Stock)

MD Legislature Considers Broadband Expansion

The Maryland Legislature is looking at ways to expand broadband access in the state and advocates are weighing in. Gov. Wes Moore's broadband …

Pollsters found support increased to 74% when people polled were informed 10 other states and Washington, D.C., have legalized the practice. (Adobe Stock)

Record Percentage of MD Voters Support End-of-Life Option Legislation

The Maryland Legislature this session will again take up the issue of medical aid in dying, and prospects for its passage look favorable. New …

People who experience fatigue from long duration screen use can consider blue light reading glasses that filter blue light and reduce glare. (Adobe Stock)

Blue Light From Screens Could Impact Sleep

With the rise in digital device use, more people are expressing concern about exposure to blue light. While blue light is around us daily as part of …

Both drafty and well-sealed homes can have a radon problem. (Adobe Stock)

Marylanders Encouraged to Test for Radon

January is National Radon Action Month and officials are encouraging Marylanders to test their homes. Radon is a radioactive gas produced by the …

Maryland's nursing shortage is anticipated to grow to over 13,000 RNs by 2035. (Adobe Stock)

Maryland Hospital Capacity Strained: High Demand, Staffing Challenges

Maryland's health officials are appealing to the public to take precautions as the state's hospital bed availability is once again strained. Many …

Oregon was the first state to legalize medical aid in dying. Its

MD Gov.-Elect Expresses Support for Medical Aid in Dying

Advocates of medical aid in dying are cheering recent statements by Gov.-Elect Wes Moore in support of patients having the option. The governor-…

The eye pressure at which glaucoma develops is not consistent, some people with glaucoma have average range eye pressure. (Adobe Stock)

Preventable Vision Loss Highlighted During Glaucoma Awareness Month

January is Glaucoma Awareness Month, and with no symptoms, experts say it is important for Marylanders to get regular eye exams. Glaucoma is the …

5.2 million older Americans were considered food-insecure in 2020, according to the nonprofit Feeding America. That's about one in 15 people. (Adobe Stock)">

AARP Maryland Sets 2023 Legislative Priorities

AARP Maryland has just released its legislative priority list for the coming year, with health and consumer protection issues topping the list…

Data from a national survey of adults found that excessive drinking increased 21% during the COVID-19 pandemic. (Adobe Stock)

Sober October Highlights Health Benefits and Raising Money for Charity

Marylanders who want a new health challenge can participate in Sober October, which -- in addition to the sobriety pledge -- offers the chance to …

Falls among adults age 65 and older caused more than 34,000 deaths in 2019, making it the leading cause of injury-related death for the age group, according to the CDC. (Adobe Stock)

Across MD, Community Workshops Help Older Residents Prevent Falls

One in four Americans age 65 and older take an unexpected tumble each year, and during Falls Prevention Awareness Week, experts are encouraging them …

As estimated 143,000 young people in Maryland say they struggle to make it through the day. (Adobe Stock)

Annual Report Issues Calls for Action on Youth Mental-Health Crisis

An annual snapshot of child well-being is highlighting the urgent need to address youth mental-health in Maryland and other states. The 2022 Kids …

Green roofs can help address stormwater runoff concerns such as flooding. In recent years, hurricanes, tropical storms and increased heavy rainfall have hit Marylanders with extensive<br />flooding problems. (Adobe Stock)

MD Communities Win 'Green Streets, Green Jobs, Green Towns' Grant

Communities in Maryland have been awarded portions of a $1 million grant to support infrastructure projects such as improving local waterway health an…

The StrongerMemory program material is free to the public and can be downloaded at https://goodwinhouse.org/stronger-memory. (Adobe Stock)

MD Launches Brain Health Program for Older Adults

Maryland has launched a brain-health program in senior centers aimed at helping older adults experiencing memory loss. Called StrongerMemory…

If the constitutional amendment to legalize adult-use cannabis passes, those age 21 and older in Maryland will be allowed to cultivate up to two plants for personal use. (andrea/Adobe Stock)

Marijuana Legalization in MD Up to Voters This November

Groups are raising awareness about a ballot initiative in Maryland to legalize adult-use recreational cannabis. The state House and Senate voted …

According to the Maryland Department of Correctional Services and Public Safety, the annual cost of incarceration is $46,000 per year, with medical and mental-health service costs even higher for incarcerated people age 50 and older. (Adobe Stock)

Compassionate-Release Bill Would Streamline Medical, Geriatric Parole Process

A bill making its way through the Maryland General Assembly would permit the compassionate release of certain incarcerated older adults in the state…

All Maryland Health Connection plans cover preventive services without charging a co-payment or requiring coinsurance. (Adobe Stock)

MD Extended Open Enrollment Aims to Reach More Uninsured

People in Maryland have one more week to sign up for health insurance coverage through the state-run insurance marketplace, and advocates are hoping …

Under the federal Family and Medical Leave Act, unpaid leave is inaccessible for 56% of working residents. (Adobe Stock)

Paid Family Leave Coalition to Host Annapolis Rally for Time To Care Act

With the Maryland legislative session in full gear, advocacy groups are planning to host a rally in Annapolis Monday to push lawmakers to pass paid …

PFAS chemicals also have been found in firefighters' protective equipment, known as turnout gear. (Adobe Stock)

MD Bill Would Ban Sale, Use of Products Containing PFAS Chemicals

Maryland lawmakers and firefighters are pushing legislation to lower the risks of exposure to PFAS, a class of toxic chemicals found in many products…

Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan recently signed an executive order that allows nursing students to serve as licensed practical nurses, certified nursing assistants and certified medical technicians to assist with the health-care worker shortage. (Adobe Stock)

MD Bill Would Curb Price Hikes by Health-Care Staffing Agencies

A bill in the Maryland General Assembly would address price-gouging among health care staffing agencies increasing their rates amid a national worker…

Maryland also offers the Maryland AIDS Drug Assistance Program, which ensures underinsured and uninsured people living with HIV/AIDS in the state are able to pay for medication. (Adobe Stock)

MD Groups Host Health Insurance Events for Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day

February 7 marks National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, and Maryland health-care advocates see it as an opportunity to provide health-care options …

Researchers are only recently recognizing the difficulties of being pregnant and giving birth while a person is incarcerated, according to the Prison Policy Initiative. (Adobe Stock)

Pregnant in Prison: MD Legislation Proposes Alternatives

Maryland could become the second state in the nation to provide specific support for the health and well-being of incarcerated people who are pregnant…

No matter where you live in Maryland, the Maryland Health Connection website offers a choice of plans from multiple insurance companies. (Adobe stock)

New MD Law, Biden Plan Cut Health-Insurance Costs

ANNAPOLIS, Md. -- Maryland's health insurance open enrollment period runs through Jan. 15, and whether you are younger or older, extra financial …

In a new poll, just 10% of Marylanders said they disapproved of Gov. Larry Hogan's handling of COVID-19. (Marylandgovpics/Flickr)<br />

Poll: Marylanders Welcome Boosters, Still Concerned About Getting COVID

BALTIMORE, Md. -- As the drive for Marylanders to get COVID-19 booster shots continues, a new poll found a huge swath of residents said they are …

Financial assistance is available for Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan Washington's new at-home medication abortion services. (Adobe Stock)<br />

Eyeing Trend, MD Provider Offers Abortion Drugs by Mail

SILVER SPRING, Md. -- As the Biden administration challenges a Texas law restricting abortion after six weeks of pregnancy, Planned Parenthood for …

Between 2014 and 2019, fentanyl overdose deaths in Maryland ballooned from 340 to more than 1,900, according to the Maryland Department of Health. (Adobe Stock)<br />

As MD Opioid Deaths Explode in Pandemic, Town Halls Aim to Halt Crisis

BALTIMORE - The Maryland Stop Opioid Overdose Strategy, or Maryland S-O-S program, launches town hall meetings this week to address ways to combat …

During the pandemic, more than 20% of U.S. parents with children ages 5-12 reported their children experienced worsened mental or emotional health, according to a Kaiser Family Foundation report. (Adobe Stock)<br />

Mental Health in Spotlight as MD K-12 Schools Reopen

BALTIMORE, Md. -- As Maryland children prepare to return to school in the next few weeks, experts say ensuring their mental health is stable is a top …

The majority of childbirth-related deaths in the U.S. occur during the postpartum period, between 43 days and one year after the end of pregnancy, according to the CDC. (Adobe Stock)<br />

"Maternal Health Crisis” Behind Push to Extend Medicaid Postpartum Coverage

BALTIMORE -- Maternal mortality rates are higher for women of color, and the issue is getting renewed attention from state and federal lawmakers…

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PNS Daily Newscast: Afternoon Update - September 18, 2024

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