Solutions

Disaster planning for older adults: What to know this hurricane and wildfire season When Hurricane Ian struck southwestern Florida in 2022, it led to the deaths of more than 150 people—the majority of whom were older adults who had heart-related problems, power outage-related accidents, ... Laura Williamson Medical Xpress

...

The deaths drove home the importance of evacuating when natural hazards threaten homes and highlighted the complicated nature of doing so for the growing population of adults aging in place.

We aren’t doing enough about the risk of bird flu – but we can | CNN

The United States’ response to H5N1 – “bird flu” – has been fragmented and inadequate. With three cases reported in people in the United States and clusters from Michigan to Texas, it’s clear that the virus is widespread among animals. To protect people, animals, and our economy, and to restore trust in public health, we need to get this right....

We have a lot to learn and no time to lose. First, states and national authorities must work with one another. This will require multiple federal agencies – including CDC, USDA, APHIS – and their state counterparts to share information transparently and in real time with each other and with the public. Second, Congress needs to provide resources to respond to the next pandemic and also for systems, workforce, and infrastructure so we are prepared to stop new and unknown events before they become epidemics. Third, and perhaps most importantly, we must quickly build relationships with farm owners and workers by being responsive to their needs and addressing questions and concerns.

...

Pharmacists prove effective, less costly care option for minor illnesses Greater use of pharmacists to treat minor illnesses could potentially save millions of dollars in health care costs, according to new research led by Washington State University. The findings also indicate ... Science X Medical Xpress

The findings also indicate a way to improve health care access by expanding availability of pharmacists' clinical services, including prescribing medications, amid an ongoing shortage of primary care providers.