Insights

You learn a lot when you spend months reporting on a given issue or community, as our fellows can attest. Whether you’re embarking on a big new story or seeking to go deeper on a given issue, it pays to learn from those who’ve already put in the shoe leather and crunched the data. In these essays and columns, our community of journalists steps back from the notebooks and tape to reflect on key lessons, highlight urgent themes, and offer sage advice on the essential health stories of the day. 

Author(s)
By Erica Mu

After Obamacare's passage, California expanded its Medicaid benefits to allow those with mild to moderate mental health problems to receive care. But as the state's Medicaid numbers surge, some say there aren't enough providers to meet the rising demand.

Author(s)
By Ryan White

The battle over school lunch returned this week, as a House subcommittee moved to weaken stricter school lunch standards set to go into effect later this year. Critics say the rules go to far and lead to kids dumping out their lunch. Supporters insist the rules will make kids healthier.

Author(s)
By Anthony Advincula

Immigration can be such a polarizing and delicate topic, with many people not comfortable talking about it. After nearly a year of reporting on the effects of trauma on the children of deported parents, I found some lessons and experiences have stayed with me.

Author(s)
By Ryan White

Preschool is enjoying a new heyday, right? Not so fast: A new report out this week from the National Institute of Early Education Research finds that in 2013, total enrollment in state-funded pre-K program dipped slightly, funding was flat, and quality was questionable in many programs.

Author(s)
By Viji Sundaram

Whole Foods CEO John Mackey, an outspoken critic of Obamacare, has touted the benefits of self-funded health insurance plans. But the company's own plan places limits on coverage such that families with autistic children are often forced shoulder the costs of treatment.