- US is funding “gain of function” research: Scientists at Boston University have created a new and deadlier version of Omicron. But what if not all the mad scientists are on our side?
- New study finds that depressed people are not really “sadder, but wiser.” (NYT)
- US News hospital rankings are going woke.
- Featherbedding in the dialysis clinics; California unions have no shame. (WSJ)
Category: Policy & Legislation
DIY Dentistry is a Bad Idea but I Have Some Better Ones
I went to the dentist today. It was just a cleaning and checkup. A dental hygienist cleaned my teeth and the dentist stopped by to check on her work and ask me if I had any questions for him. My dentist has a deal where you pay $200 a year upfront and two cleanings a…
OTC Hearing Aids are Finally Here. Say What? Do Speak Up!
Starting today Americans will be able to legally buy hearing aids over the counter (OTC). Granted, there were a few already available before the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations were announced. However, big-name electronics manufacturers held out until the FDA issued its Final Rule. In the interim between when the law was passed and when the FDA promulgated regulations, legacy purveyors of prescription hearing aids lobbied behind the scenes in hopes of hobbling OTC competition.
The Pros and Cons of Telemental and Online Mental Health Counseling
Telemedicine got a tremendous boost during Covid when Americans were isolating in their homes and many doctors were afraid to see patients face-to-face. In addition, many people were stressed from social isolation with kids attending schools online while parents tried to work from home. As a result, mental health services also went online. Experts are…