National Updates
New Texas Law Enhances Patient Communication
Effective September 1, Texas enacted a law requiring physicians to personally share test results—whether positive or negative—before patients receive them. This ensures clarity and provider follow-up for difficult news.Texas Medical Association
Texas Updates
Public Input Sought for Rural Health Funding Application
Texas health officials are inviting public feedback on the state’s application to the $50B Rural Health Transformation Program. The funds aim to support rural hospitals at risk of closure due to recent Medicare and Medicaid budget cuts.KERA News
Global Health Alerts
South Asia Faces Dual Disease Burden
Bangladesh is struggling with simultaneous outbreaks of dengue and chikungunya, stretching healthcare capacity. Regions are also bracing for outbreak risks through late September.CDC Travelers’ Health
WHO Ends Mpox Global Emergency
WHO has officially lifted the Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) status for mpox in Africa. Although case numbers have stabilized, vigilance and testing remain essential.AP NewsHealth Policy Watch
Clinical Tips for Providers
- Rural Care: Encourage community members and clinics to submit input on rural health needs—this shapes future funding and supports access.
- Disease Screening: Evaluate patients with fever and joint pain who have traveled to South Asia for dengue or chikungunya. Emphasize mosquito prevention strategies.
- Mpox Monitoring: Continue to test and monitor patients with rash illnesses, even as global alert status ends—early detection remains key.
