Health Policy Connection | Institute for Health Policy Leadership

Welcome To Our Blog!

The Health Policy Connection features the expertise of our colleagues both internal and external to Loma Linda University Health, sharing their views on various health policy-related topics relevant to the current times.

Please note that the views and opinions expressed in the following articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of Loma Linda University Health or the Institute for Health Policy and Leadership.

Pakistan, Prevention, Suicide, Stigma

Suicide in Pakistan: Addressing a Hidden Epidemic

July 19, 2022

Suicide is a hidden epidemic in Pakistan. Policies and programs are urgently needed to mitigate this epidemic.

Behavioral Health Continuum Infrastructure Program (BHCIP), behavioral health care, Children Youth and Behavioral Health Initiative, Mental health

New Horizons for Behavioral Health in California: What Does this Mean for Patients and Providers?

July 6, 2022

California is set to make a historic investment in behavioral health care. Read on to find out more.

teen shoes with a bunch of negative words on chalkboard

Mass shootings, gun violence, assault weapons ban, public safety

A Mass Shooting Pandemic

June 15, 2022

Recent mass shootings in Uvalde and Buffalo make an urgent plea for policy changes to make our country safer.

Human trafficking background concept glowing stock photo

human trafficking, pandemic, vulnerable groups, sexual exploitation

The Chaos of the Pandemic Increased the Risks of Human Trafficking

June 1, 2022

The pandemic created an environment that increased the risk of human trafficking of vulnerable individuals.

young students eating lunch, one student eating an apple

School wellness policy, School meals, Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010, childhood obesity, Children’s health

Improving Child Health through School Meals and Wellness Policies

May 18, 2022

Thoughtful school wellness policies and nutritious school meals can improve child health.

Gloved hands of contemporary virologist holding vaccine against covid19

Immunization, Vaccination, dentist, oral health professional

Expansion of Immunization Access in Partnership with Oral Health Professionals

May 2, 2022

Oral health professionals can help expand access to immunizations.

HR 1667, Mental health, Burnout, self-care, Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act

Promoting the Mental Well-being of Our Frontline Health Workforce

April 15, 2022

The recently passed federal bill HR 1667 aims to prevent and reduce burnout among healthcare professionals.

Woman being comforted by doctor. Both have smiles on face.

opioid addiction, cancer pain, social determinants of health, psychosocial stress, social isolation, social stressors, cancer survival

The Impact of Social Determinants of Health on Cancer Survival

April 4, 2022

Psychosocial stressors from social determinants of health can affect cancer outcomes.

man in dentist chair with woman dentist working on him

Oral Health Policy, health equity, Medicare

Medicare and Whole Person Oral Health

March 16, 2022

It’s time to change Medicare coverage to include medically necessary oral health care.

homeless man with his possessions in tunnel

Community Benefits, Affordable Housing, Health Outcomes, Homelessness

Why are Hospitals Investing in Houses?

March 2, 2022

Healthcare providers do not have a safe place to discharge homeless patients, resulting in higher healthcare costs.</