Health

Health
New MSU Mankato, Wilder Research study examines barrier to obtaining mental health licensure among state graduates
The new study released on Thursday, conducted by Blue Cross and Blue Shield Center for Rural Behavioral Health at Minnesota State University, Mankato and Wilder Research, identified several barriers Minnesota graduates encounter during the licensing process. It’s one of the first studies to specifically examine the licensure process. 
Second spike in flu hospitalizes hundreds of Minnesotans
Just last week, 750 Minnesotans were ill enough to be hospitalized because of the virus. Minnesota Department of Health data show flu hospitalizations ranging from 747 to nearly 900 cases from Jan. 5 through Feb. 2.
Mobile pharmacy brings meds to Winthrop customers after losing brick and mortar store
Some Minnesota pharmacies are closing their doors because of lower reimbursement rates for prescription drugs and dwindling profit margins — especially for pharmacies with a large customer base on public insurance. 
Ramsey County benefits recipients struggle amid application backlog
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, applications for public assistance — like SNAP and Medicaid — have gone up in Minnesota. In Ramsey County, that’s led to a backlog, leaving clients with questions and without coverage while they try to find help.
Republicans advance anti-abortion legislation during control of Minnesota House
Republicans have control of the Minnesota House at least through a special election in March, giving them a chance to advance abortion legislation that would have a tougher path in a tied chamber.
Merger with the U and Essentia? Fairview says ‘no’
Fairview Health Services says it is not interested in a merger with the University of Minnesota and Essentia Health. The U and Essentia back a plan that would create a nonprofit entity and had invited Fairview to be part of the discussion.
Wellness Wednesday mental health highlights
Talking about mental health can be difficult but it can help us understand some of the challenges and possible treatments. MPR News host Angela Davis shares some of her memorable conversations about mental health.
Canned tuna sold at Costco, Trader Joe’s recalled over botulism risk
The voluntary recall covers 13 products sold at major grocery stores in 26 states and the District of Columbia. It was triggered by defective packaging that poses the risk of food poisoning.
As measles cases rise, a new book warns parents not to underestimate the disease
As childhood vaccination rates drop in the U.S., outbreaks of measles are rising. In his new book, Booster Shots, Dr. Adam Ratner makes the case that this is a bad sign for public health.