Hot Topics in Public Health

MSDC Recommends to Mayor Bowser Health Improvements for Re-Open Plan

May 28, 2020

MSDC made a set of recommendations to the Mayor on how to protect the health of residents during the re-open DC plan.

DC Releases Phase One Reopening Guidance for Elective Surgeries

May 27, 2020

Today Mayor Bowser released details on how elective procedures should resume under the first phase of re-opening DC.

Mayor Announces FY21 Budget (Updated)

May 25, 2020

Today Mayor Bowser unveiled her budget for fiscal year 2021, as well as announced updates to the fiscal year 2020 budget.

COVID-19 Task Force Says DC Should Permit Frequent Physician Testing

May 22, 2020

The MSDC COVID-19 Task Force recommended that the District create a way for physicians to be tested frequently for COVID-19.

Re-Open DC Advisory Group Issues Recommendations on Path Forward for District

May 21, 2020

The Mayor's Re-Open DC Advisory Group issued its report on how to safely resume life in the District, including permanent telehealth expansion.

DC Insurers File Proposed Rates for 2021 Health Plans

May 21, 2020

DISB announced Wednesday that the four major payers have filed proposed rates for DC Health Link plans for 2021.

MSDC Asks Council to Support Physicians in Underserved Areas

May 14, 2020

MSDC sent a letter to the Council today asking them to protect independent physicians serving in areas of need.

Mayor Extends Stay At Home Order Through June 8

May 14, 2020

The Mayor extended the District's stay at home order until June 8 and required wearing a face covering in public places.

Cancer Screenings and Routine Care Drop During Public Health Emergency

May 12, 2020

Statistics confirm what many already know: routine medical care is being delayed all over in response to COVID-19

CDC: Childhood Vaccinations Plunge During COVID-19

May 11, 2020

The U.S. is facing the possibility of a measles outbreak this summer due to vaccines being missed, according to the CDC

FDA Approves First COVID-19 Saliva Test

May 11, 2020

The FDA has approved a saliva-based test for COVID-19, which could soon expand non-invasive testing options for COVID-19.

COVID-19 Task Force Calls for Protecting Most Vulnerable District Residents

May 8, 2020

The MSDC COVID-19 Task Force considered vulnerable population issues, among others, at its third meeting.

Studies Suggest Children Do Spread COVID-19 With Few Symptoms

May 7, 2020

Two new studies suggest children, even asymptomatic ones, can easily spread COVID-19 among populations.

New Study Suggests Dominant Coronavirus Strain More Contagious Than COVID-19 Original

May 6, 2020

A new study suggests a mutated strain of the novel coronavirus is spreading worldwide, complicating efforts at developing a vaccine.

Howard University Opens Free COVID-19 Testing at Benning Road

May 6, 2020

Howard University is offering a new COVID testing and treatment option for residents in Wards 7 and 8.

Bowser Administration Announces New Howard, St. E Hospitals

April 30, 2020

Today the Mayor will announce two news hospital deals that will help address some health disparities in the District.

MSDC, Local Health Associations Push Council on Liability Protections

April 29, 2020

MSDC joined DC healthcare associations in urging the Council to pass additional liability protections for healthcare workers.

DISB Guidance Offers Relief to Insurance Policyholders

April 27, 2020

On Monday, DISB issued an emergency order to provide support to District insurance policyholders during the public health emergency.

COVID-19 Task Force Tackles Testing, Health Disparities, and Physician Protection

April 24, 2020

In its second meeting, the MSDC COVID-19 Task Force issued recommendations on "re-opening" the District, COVID-19 testing, and PPE.

Congress Passes COVID 3.5 Bill and Pivots to CARES Act Part 4

April 24, 2020

The latest federal stimulus bill contains more funding for public health including new funds for testing.