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In the News (Links to external web pages may have expired)
Winter 2009
	NATIONAL	STATEWIDE	RESEARCH
	End the “tragedy of the commons” in health care—IHI’s Don Berwick’ challenge: Do what’s right for common good.	More Oregonians seek assistance as recession continues—One in six Oregonians is now on food stamps.	CT scan radiation varies widely—Radiation dosages can range as high as three times that associated with increased cancer risk.
	Nation fares poorly on longevity scale—The United States ranks near bottom of wealthiest nations in common health measures.	Oregon rate of unemployment declines—Health care employment shows increase over one year ago.	Keeping abreast of the latest research is hard to do—Technology may help physicians keep pace evidence-based best practices.
		Oregon’s childhood Medicaid enrollment earns bonus—Federal award is for enrolling more low-income children in Medicaid.	Look younger, live longer—Perceived age can be a strong indicator of good health, study confirms.
Fall 2009
	NATIONAL	STATEWIDE	RESEARCH
	Diabetes state by state: Oregon slightly better than average—Analysis of surveys shows differences between men, women, and among races.	Oregon WIC upgrades food packages—Changes improve nutrient content, reinforce healthy choices and support WIC focus on breastfeeding.	Popcorn may be good for you...but hold the butter—Large amounts of antioxidant polyphenols may have role in reducing risk of heart disease, cancer and other diseases.
	For health insurance, it’s where you live—Census data of the geographic distribution of the nation’s uninsured population shows wide disparities in different regions.	Report shows gaps in Oregon’s primary care quality—Diabetes care exceeds national average, but women’s health screenings lag.	Women + diabetes = increased risk of irregular heart rhythm—Center for Health Research study shows women with diabetes are 26 percent more likely to develop atrial fibrillation.
		Oregon food stamp program honored—For the third year in a row, the state's food stamp program was recognized by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. This year's recognition comes with a $2 million award.	Study: medical homes show patient, staff benefits—Results of demonstration project show that adoption of the model, despite investment costs, can lead to improvements in quality without increasing overall costs.
Spring 2009
	NATIONAL	STATEWIDE	RESEARCH
	Gallup poll: Americans are happier, healthier out West—Survey on well-being shows highest scores in the West, lowest scores in the South.	Oregon food stamp use way up—The increase in the number of people receiving food stamps in Oregon during the past year is greater than the population of Medford.	Marijuana linked to testicular cancer—Men who smoke a lot of marijuana, especially as teens, may significantly raise their risk.
	Stimulus package funds health care improvements—Federal funds support projects to improve health care, support jobs.	Deadly Fungus From B.C. Moving Into U.S. Northwest—In 10 years, Cryptococcus gattii has sickened 239 and killed 19 in British Columbia.	Old weapon, new enemy: Antibodies vs. the flu—Engineered antibodies protect against many strains, including the 1918 Spanish flu and the H5N1 bird flu.
		Salem rally urges health care reform—Proponents say measures before Legislature would help rein in costs and provide care for another 180,000 Oregonians.	Nintendo’s Wii could prevent falls—Nintendo Wii Fit could help improve the balance of the elderly, and reduce risks of falling.
		Oregon Public Health stepping up swine flu surveillance—The first case in Oregon was confirmed in Multnomah County April 28.	Mediterranean diet good for the brain—Research shows that the Mediterranean diet reduces risk for mild cognitive impairment.
Winter 2008-9
	NATIONAL	STATEWIDE	RESEARCH
	Bailout brings mental illness relief, too—Financial bailout package included mental health parity.	OHP members report health care discrimination—OSU researchers say women who are pregnant or uninsured also report discrimination by providers.	Pregnancy reduces breast cancer risk—A hormone associated with pregnancy is likely the reason.
	Google tracks flu season—Internet search data show flu, allergy and sunburn seasons quicker than CDC.	Oregon: Second best in nation for preventing premature birth—But Oregon’s “grade” from March of Dimes’ Premature Birth Report Card is just a “C.”	No help for prostate health from supplements—Study cancelled. Researchers say treatments may be more harmful than helpful.
	Nutrition suffers in poor economy—Least expensive foods are calorie-rich, nutrient-poor “junk food.”	DHS: Written hospital policies encourage breastfeeding—Supportive policies make women more likely to breastfeed newborns.	Evidence suggests heart disease, diabetes linked to BPA—But FDA hasn’t taken action against chemical common in food and beverage containers.
	Food companies: Nutrient standards a “smart choice”—Big food and beverage companies agree on common nutrient standards, labelling.	In poor economy, health care employment stays strong—Non-paying patients hurt bottom line, but demand keeps job-outlook healthy.	Trans fats linked to miscarriage risk—Trans fatty acids are already blamed for contributing to cardiovascular disease.

Fall 2008

NATIONAL	STATEWIDE	RESEARCH
CMS: Medicare won’t pay hospitals for “Serious Reportable Events.”	Oregon’s patient safety reporting system working well.	CHR study: Even if it is regained, weight loss benefits people newly diagnosed with diabetes.
CDC: The average wait for emergency care has grown to nearly an hour.	State epidemiologist: Data supports effectiveness of restaurants listing calorie counts on menues.	Studies confirm beneficial effects of mindfulness meditation on immune system, brain areas in charge of decision-making and emotion regulation.
CDC report: U.S. has most measles cases since 1996. Many of the victims are unprotected because parents oppose vaccination.	Oregon one of six states with highest rates of skin cancer. Washington and Idaho also rank high.	Help from a medication specialist helps indigent patients comply with medication regimens better than patients with insurance.

In the News

Winter 2009

Fall 2009

Spring 2009

Winter 2008-9

Fall 2008