How does the CDC develop its guidelines? A new report sheds some light
The CDC use a series of steps and checklists to develop its guidelines. The agency recently published a document detailing the process.
Health
Research roundups, tip sheets, articles and explainers related to health, health care and health equity
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A health care journalist’s guide to prior authorization
Health insurance companies argue that prior authorization can reduce unnecessary procedures and health care costs. But doctors have concerns about the frequency of these requests, even for routine procedures, and the administrative burdens associated with them.
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Interviewing nurses for your story? Diversify your sources with this guide to nursing specialty groups
Nurses in different specialties can offer perspective not only about patient care, but also clinical research, ethical issues and management.
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COVID-19 infections rise in cold temperatures year-round, study confirms
Prior research on weather and COVID-19 transmission provides inconsistent results. A recent study shows transmission rates rise when temperatures drop or outdoor levels of ultraviolet radiation are high.
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When public officials spread health misinformation, be quick to point it out: A tip sheet
Some politicians, public officials and a handful of physicians are spreading misinformation. It’s important for journalists to debunk falsehoods high up in their stories, avoid false balance, and dig into the motives.
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Should kids need parental consent to get the COVID-19 vaccine? Here’s what the research says
Parental consent laws vary by state by the type of health care service. This piece brings you an overview of the issue and lists several studies and resources to help you with your reporting.
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New research links racism to higher preterm birth rates in Black women
Two new studies add to the mounting evidence that racism — including the legacy of redlining — has an impact on preterm birth rates in the U.S.
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7 tips for finding local stories in The Lancet’s 2021 health and climate change report
Even for journalists who don’t typically cover climate change, the Lancet Countdown reports are a treasure trove of story ideas that can help explain how extreme weather events affect personal health.
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5 tips for avoiding mistakes in news headlines about health and medical research
Prominent science journalists Deborah Blum, Cristine Russell and Brooke Borel offer advice to help newsrooms avoid common mistakes in writing headlines about health and medical research.
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The FDA’s accelerated approval process: When drugs are cleared for sale based on limited evidence
Accelerated approval is an important topic for journalists to consider in their ongoing coverage of drug costs in America. This article explains how the process works — including examples of successes and controversies. Plus: 5 reporting tips.
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