Health & Science

California May Ease Poor’s Access to Insurance

By Lorraine Forte ● Health & Science ● May 11, 2000

The state with the highest number of uninsured may cut red tape and reporting requirements in belief that it may reduce emergency care costs. Bipartisan support is not yet assured, however.

Drug tests may conflict with women’s rights

By Jean E. Herskowitz ● Health & Science ● May 3, 2000

Eighteen states have anti-drug laws that may interfere with a woman’s right to choose and could be applied in a racially discriminatory manner. Mothers may also loose custody to a foster care system that is often inadequate.

Medical Students Battle for Pro-Choice Education

By Melinda Voss ● Health & Science ● April 28, 2000

More than 150 medical students met to learn not only how to perform abortions, but also how to press for changes in medical school training. Both are needed, say the organizers, because abortions are the most common surgical procedure for women.

Nursing Moms Thwarted by Laws

By Melinda Voss ● Health & Science ● April 21, 2000

Some threatened with arrest for putting breastfeeding ahead of other legal obligations; another is fired. Some battles are being won, however.

Poor Families Gain Jobs; Lose Health Insurance

By Melinda Voss ● Health & Science ● April 16, 2000

Two new studies indicate that many of the parents who left federal welfare for paid employment have needlessly lost their federal health insurance.