Insured immigrants have lower medical costs than U.S.-born citizens, study finds

"Insured immigrants have lower medical expenses than insured U.S.-born citizens after taking into account their health status and other characteristics, according to a study released on Thursday and published in the American Journal of Public Health, Reuters Health reports."


http://www.news-medical.net/news/2009/05/15/Insured-immigrants-have-lower-medical-costs-than-US-born-citizens-study-finds.aspx

Public health crusader Paul Farmer could join Obama team

"Dr. Paul Farmer, the global health crusader who has crafted life-saving projects from Haiti to Rwanda, has told colleagues privately that he is mulling a possible appointment by the Obama administration to coordinate growing US overseas health initiatives."

http://www.boston.com/news/politics/politicalintelligence/2009/05/public_health_c.html

How Hospitals Treat Same-Sex Couples

This article addresses discrimination that same-sex couples face when their partners are in the hospital. Many are denied 'family status' in making important treatment decisions. When this right is upheld, couples are often asked for paperwork to verify their relationship, a formality absent for heterosexual couples and for other family members.

Check out the article for more:

http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/05/12/how-hospitals-treat-same-sex-couples/?src=twr

Write to Your Representative to Support Loan Deferment for Residents

Last summer, the College Cost Reduction Act eliminated loan deferment for residents. However, as you know, Congress is currently drafting a bill to reform healthcare. It is imperative that we make our voices heard on this issue so that people from all walks of life can train to become physicians.Congress needs to hear from you that reinstating the economic hardship deferral pathway is a good thing, and that including comprehensive measures to decrease the cost of medical education in this month's health reform legislation will be even better.

To Take Action: http://capwiz.com/ams/issues/alert/?alertid=13255531&type=CO