Q: How would the loss of mifepristone affect reproductive health care?
Health Policy Reproductive Health
Katherine Cartwright, DO, MPH
Update: On Thursday, May 14, 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court issued an order continuing to block Louisiana’s effort to restrict mifepristone access by mail. What does this mean? Mifepristone is still available via telehealth, for now. But the order is really just a pause while the lower courts continue the legal battle over this particular Read more…
What is National Nurses’ Week?
Health Policy Women in STEM
Clara Ke, BSN, RN
National Nurses’ Week runs from May 6 to May 12 to celebrate the work of nurses across the United States. Nurses’ Day became an “official holiday” in 1982, when then-President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation declaring May 6 to be a “National Recognition Day for Nurses”. The American Nurses’ Association (ANA) expanded the day to Read more…
Abortions are not just surgical procedures.
Health Policy Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
⚠️ On May 1, 2026, a U.S. federal appeals court restricted telemedicine access to mifepristone across the country, affecting all states, even states where people currently have access to abortion care. The U.S. Supreme Court temporarily paused that ruling. Mifepristone can still be prescribed via telemedicine and mailed to patients at least through May 11, Read more…
It’s National Public Health Week!
Health Policy
Riddle us this, Nerdies! What is crucial for the well-being of everyone but is all but invisible when it’s working effectively? Public Health, of course! It’s National Public Health Week, and Those Nerdy Girls would like to show our support to all our public health colleagues and raise up their voices and good deeds. We Read more…
Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health
Health Policy Nerdy Nexus Social and Racial Justice
Guest Author Nicole Loew, PhD, RN
This post was written by Guest Contributor Dr. Nicole Loew. She has her PhD in nursing from the University of Iowa, and her research interests include understanding how women’s contexts impact their perspectives of sexual health and their sexual behavior. Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health When we talk about health, most Read more…
What is the USPSTF and why does it matter?
General Health Health Policy Hot Health Topics
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) is an independent advisory panel of experts who make evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services. (This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original published on August 22, 2025.) In July 2025, the current Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) abruptly canceled a meeting Read more…
What Is Implementation Science?
General Health Health Policy
Guest Author Bertha A. Hidalgo, PhD, MPH, FACE
Implementation science is the study of how to make sure good, evidence-based ideas in medicine and public health actually reach people. In the hospital, very sick patients may need a central line to receive important medicines and fluids. In the past, these helpful tubes too often led to serious infections in the bloodstream. Doctors already Read more…
What’s going on with this U.S. childhood vaccine schedule change?
Health Policy Vaccines
The U.S. federal government recently announced big changes to the childhood vaccine schedule. It is reducing the number of vaccines “routinely” recommended for all kids and moving several vaccines into an “optional/shared decision” category instead. This means they’re only routinely recommending protection against 11 diseases, instead of 17. Those Nerdy Girls and many other public Read more…
What’s with the American Heart Association’s new claims about the heart healthiness of alcohol?
General Health Health Policy
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
The American Heart Association (AHA) recently suggested that light drinking may be a positive for heart health. The health benefits of even moderate alcohol use seem very small while the risks are real. In July, the Association, which is a leader in the heart health field, published a review suggesting that not only is light Read more…
What exactly are ethics, and how important are they in human medical research?
Health Policy Treatments Vaccines
Sandy Laping, MSc
Ethics are a set of principles that help us figure out what’s right and wrong. In medical research, they help to keep the people taking part safe, make sure the research does more good than harm, and ensure the results can be trusted. Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original Read more…
What Really Works to Prevent Youth Substance Use?
Health Policy
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
As with many other health issues, strong, supportive relationships, social-emotional and practical skills, policies that reduce harm, and communities where young people are able to thrive help most to prevent and reduce youth substance use. 🍳 “This is your brain on drugs. From the mid-1980s through the early 2000s, several widely promoted drug-prevention efforts in Read more…
From Civil Rights Hubs to Pharmacy Deserts: What Pharmacy Closures Mean—And How You Can Take Action
General Health Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
Pharmacies provide essential care, from medications to vaccinations and more. The loss of a nearby pharmacy hurts the people who rely on it the most. Here’s why more pharmacies are closing—and what you can do to support pharmacy access for all. Imagine stepping into your local pharmacy—the place where you ask questions, get vaccines, and Read more…
Do you know how you are going to feed your family this month?
Families/Kids Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Update: A federal judge ruled that emergency funds can be used for SNAP, but it’s not yet clear if this applies to all states or only those involved in the lawsuit. The decision could also be appealed or delayed. Even if funds are released, it will take time for them to reach families. That’s why Read more…
Intimate Partner Violence in Rural Communities: What We Know and What Can Help
Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
People experiencing intimate partner violence who live in rural communities often face bigger challenges and have fewer options for safety and support. But when prevention and support programs are adapted to fit rural life, they can make a real difference – improving safety, expanding options, and helping build healthy relationships across communities. Intimate partner violence Read more…
I’ve been hearing a lot about organ donation — should I worry, and how can I make my wishes known?
General Health Health Policy
Heather Duncan, MPH, PhD
Organ donation is a complicated medical and legal topic, and some are calling for more transparency and regulation. Learning about the process can help you know how to communicate your wishes ahead of time. We don’t typically think of organ donation as a controversial topic. When I applied for my first driver’s license I checked Read more…
I asked a bunch of kids what a “healthy neighborhood” looks like to them.
Families/Kids Health Policy Nerdy Notes
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
This is another in our new series Nerdy Notes: Science in Story & Verse. In these posts, our Nerdy Girl scientists and clinicians will share personal stories, insights, poetry, and more. While these posts may be lighter in terms of numbers and figures, they will still be rooted in our tradition and commitment to providing Read more…
Health in Rural America: 8 Challenges and Things That Can Help
General Health Health Policy
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Funding for rural hospitals and healthcare is making headlines right now, shining a light on challenges that affect millions. In the U.S., about 1 in 5 people live in rural areas. That’s 60 million people, yet rural communities are sometimes left out of public health conversations. I’ve lived in rural areas for almost 20 years, Read more…
What is gun violence, and who does it affect?
Data and Metrics Health Policy
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Gun violence is an alarming public health crisis in the United States. Its toll goes well beyond the thousands of lives lost each year. It devastates families and communities. It threatens our sense of safety and security. In this post on gun violence as a public health issue, we explain the different types of violence Read more…
What is the USPSTF and why does it matter?
Health Policy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
The USPSTF is an independent advisory panel of experts who make evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services. In the last few weeks, the little known agency called the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has made the news. The Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has discussed removing all of the Read more…
What’s the difference between a DO and MD?
General Health Health Policy
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: If you’re looking for a physician, either is fine! When looking online for a doctor, you might have noticed that some physicians are MDs and others are DOs. MD stands for doctor of medicine and DO stands for doctor of osteopathic medicine. So what’s the difference, and does it matter? Practically, there is no Read more…
Update: On Thursday, May 14, 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court issued an order continuing to block Louisiana’s effort to restrict mifepristone access by mail. What does this mean? Mifepristone is still available via telehealth, for now. But the order is really just a pause while the lower courts continue the legal battle over this particular Read more…
What is National Nurses’ Week?
Health Policy Women in STEMClara Ke, BSN, RN
National Nurses’ Week runs from May 6 to May 12 to celebrate the work of nurses across the United States. Nurses’ Day became an “official holiday” in 1982, when then-President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation declaring May 6 to be a “National Recognition Day for Nurses”. The American Nurses’ Association (ANA) expanded the day to Read more…
Abortions are not just surgical procedures.
Health Policy Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
⚠️ On May 1, 2026, a U.S. federal appeals court restricted telemedicine access to mifepristone across the country, affecting all states, even states where people currently have access to abortion care. The U.S. Supreme Court temporarily paused that ruling. Mifepristone can still be prescribed via telemedicine and mailed to patients at least through May 11, Read more…
It’s National Public Health Week!
Health Policy
Riddle us this, Nerdies! What is crucial for the well-being of everyone but is all but invisible when it’s working effectively? Public Health, of course! It’s National Public Health Week, and Those Nerdy Girls would like to show our support to all our public health colleagues and raise up their voices and good deeds. We Read more…
Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health
Health Policy Nerdy Nexus Social and Racial Justice
Guest Author Nicole Loew, PhD, RN
This post was written by Guest Contributor Dr. Nicole Loew. She has her PhD in nursing from the University of Iowa, and her research interests include understanding how women’s contexts impact their perspectives of sexual health and their sexual behavior. Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health When we talk about health, most Read more…
What is the USPSTF and why does it matter?
General Health Health Policy Hot Health Topics
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) is an independent advisory panel of experts who make evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services. (This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original published on August 22, 2025.) In July 2025, the current Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) abruptly canceled a meeting Read more…
What Is Implementation Science?
General Health Health Policy
Guest Author Bertha A. Hidalgo, PhD, MPH, FACE
Implementation science is the study of how to make sure good, evidence-based ideas in medicine and public health actually reach people. In the hospital, very sick patients may need a central line to receive important medicines and fluids. In the past, these helpful tubes too often led to serious infections in the bloodstream. Doctors already Read more…
What’s going on with this U.S. childhood vaccine schedule change?
Health Policy Vaccines
The U.S. federal government recently announced big changes to the childhood vaccine schedule. It is reducing the number of vaccines “routinely” recommended for all kids and moving several vaccines into an “optional/shared decision” category instead. This means they’re only routinely recommending protection against 11 diseases, instead of 17. Those Nerdy Girls and many other public Read more…
What’s with the American Heart Association’s new claims about the heart healthiness of alcohol?
General Health Health Policy
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
The American Heart Association (AHA) recently suggested that light drinking may be a positive for heart health. The health benefits of even moderate alcohol use seem very small while the risks are real. In July, the Association, which is a leader in the heart health field, published a review suggesting that not only is light Read more…
What exactly are ethics, and how important are they in human medical research?
Health Policy Treatments Vaccines
Sandy Laping, MSc
Ethics are a set of principles that help us figure out what’s right and wrong. In medical research, they help to keep the people taking part safe, make sure the research does more good than harm, and ensure the results can be trusted. Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original Read more…
What Really Works to Prevent Youth Substance Use?
Health Policy
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
As with many other health issues, strong, supportive relationships, social-emotional and practical skills, policies that reduce harm, and communities where young people are able to thrive help most to prevent and reduce youth substance use. 🍳 “This is your brain on drugs. From the mid-1980s through the early 2000s, several widely promoted drug-prevention efforts in Read more…
From Civil Rights Hubs to Pharmacy Deserts: What Pharmacy Closures Mean—And How You Can Take Action
General Health Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
Pharmacies provide essential care, from medications to vaccinations and more. The loss of a nearby pharmacy hurts the people who rely on it the most. Here’s why more pharmacies are closing—and what you can do to support pharmacy access for all. Imagine stepping into your local pharmacy—the place where you ask questions, get vaccines, and Read more…
Do you know how you are going to feed your family this month?
Families/Kids Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Update: A federal judge ruled that emergency funds can be used for SNAP, but it’s not yet clear if this applies to all states or only those involved in the lawsuit. The decision could also be appealed or delayed. Even if funds are released, it will take time for them to reach families. That’s why Read more…
Intimate Partner Violence in Rural Communities: What We Know and What Can Help
Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
People experiencing intimate partner violence who live in rural communities often face bigger challenges and have fewer options for safety and support. But when prevention and support programs are adapted to fit rural life, they can make a real difference – improving safety, expanding options, and helping build healthy relationships across communities. Intimate partner violence Read more…
I’ve been hearing a lot about organ donation — should I worry, and how can I make my wishes known?
General Health Health Policy
Heather Duncan, MPH, PhD
Organ donation is a complicated medical and legal topic, and some are calling for more transparency and regulation. Learning about the process can help you know how to communicate your wishes ahead of time. We don’t typically think of organ donation as a controversial topic. When I applied for my first driver’s license I checked Read more…
I asked a bunch of kids what a “healthy neighborhood” looks like to them.
Families/Kids Health Policy Nerdy Notes
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
This is another in our new series Nerdy Notes: Science in Story & Verse. In these posts, our Nerdy Girl scientists and clinicians will share personal stories, insights, poetry, and more. While these posts may be lighter in terms of numbers and figures, they will still be rooted in our tradition and commitment to providing Read more…
Health in Rural America: 8 Challenges and Things That Can Help
General Health Health Policy
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Funding for rural hospitals and healthcare is making headlines right now, shining a light on challenges that affect millions. In the U.S., about 1 in 5 people live in rural areas. That’s 60 million people, yet rural communities are sometimes left out of public health conversations. I’ve lived in rural areas for almost 20 years, Read more…
What is gun violence, and who does it affect?
Data and Metrics Health Policy
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Gun violence is an alarming public health crisis in the United States. Its toll goes well beyond the thousands of lives lost each year. It devastates families and communities. It threatens our sense of safety and security. In this post on gun violence as a public health issue, we explain the different types of violence Read more…
What is the USPSTF and why does it matter?
Health Policy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
The USPSTF is an independent advisory panel of experts who make evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services. In the last few weeks, the little known agency called the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has made the news. The Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has discussed removing all of the Read more…
What’s the difference between a DO and MD?
General Health Health Policy
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: If you’re looking for a physician, either is fine! When looking online for a doctor, you might have noticed that some physicians are MDs and others are DOs. MD stands for doctor of medicine and DO stands for doctor of osteopathic medicine. So what’s the difference, and does it matter? Practically, there is no Read more…
National Nurses’ Week runs from May 6 to May 12 to celebrate the work of nurses across the United States. Nurses’ Day became an “official holiday” in 1982, when then-President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation declaring May 6 to be a “National Recognition Day for Nurses”. The American Nurses’ Association (ANA) expanded the day to Read more…
Abortions are not just surgical procedures.
Health Policy Reproductive HealthMK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
⚠️ On May 1, 2026, a U.S. federal appeals court restricted telemedicine access to mifepristone across the country, affecting all states, even states where people currently have access to abortion care. The U.S. Supreme Court temporarily paused that ruling. Mifepristone can still be prescribed via telemedicine and mailed to patients at least through May 11, Read more…
It’s National Public Health Week!
Health Policy
Riddle us this, Nerdies! What is crucial for the well-being of everyone but is all but invisible when it’s working effectively? Public Health, of course! It’s National Public Health Week, and Those Nerdy Girls would like to show our support to all our public health colleagues and raise up their voices and good deeds. We Read more…
Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health
Health Policy Nerdy Nexus Social and Racial Justice
Guest Author Nicole Loew, PhD, RN
This post was written by Guest Contributor Dr. Nicole Loew. She has her PhD in nursing from the University of Iowa, and her research interests include understanding how women’s contexts impact their perspectives of sexual health and their sexual behavior. Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health When we talk about health, most Read more…
What is the USPSTF and why does it matter?
General Health Health Policy Hot Health Topics
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) is an independent advisory panel of experts who make evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services. (This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original published on August 22, 2025.) In July 2025, the current Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) abruptly canceled a meeting Read more…
What Is Implementation Science?
General Health Health Policy
Guest Author Bertha A. Hidalgo, PhD, MPH, FACE
Implementation science is the study of how to make sure good, evidence-based ideas in medicine and public health actually reach people. In the hospital, very sick patients may need a central line to receive important medicines and fluids. In the past, these helpful tubes too often led to serious infections in the bloodstream. Doctors already Read more…
What’s going on with this U.S. childhood vaccine schedule change?
Health Policy Vaccines
The U.S. federal government recently announced big changes to the childhood vaccine schedule. It is reducing the number of vaccines “routinely” recommended for all kids and moving several vaccines into an “optional/shared decision” category instead. This means they’re only routinely recommending protection against 11 diseases, instead of 17. Those Nerdy Girls and many other public Read more…
What’s with the American Heart Association’s new claims about the heart healthiness of alcohol?
General Health Health Policy
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
The American Heart Association (AHA) recently suggested that light drinking may be a positive for heart health. The health benefits of even moderate alcohol use seem very small while the risks are real. In July, the Association, which is a leader in the heart health field, published a review suggesting that not only is light Read more…
What exactly are ethics, and how important are they in human medical research?
Health Policy Treatments Vaccines
Sandy Laping, MSc
Ethics are a set of principles that help us figure out what’s right and wrong. In medical research, they help to keep the people taking part safe, make sure the research does more good than harm, and ensure the results can be trusted. Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original Read more…
What Really Works to Prevent Youth Substance Use?
Health Policy
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
As with many other health issues, strong, supportive relationships, social-emotional and practical skills, policies that reduce harm, and communities where young people are able to thrive help most to prevent and reduce youth substance use. 🍳 “This is your brain on drugs. From the mid-1980s through the early 2000s, several widely promoted drug-prevention efforts in Read more…
From Civil Rights Hubs to Pharmacy Deserts: What Pharmacy Closures Mean—And How You Can Take Action
General Health Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
Pharmacies provide essential care, from medications to vaccinations and more. The loss of a nearby pharmacy hurts the people who rely on it the most. Here’s why more pharmacies are closing—and what you can do to support pharmacy access for all. Imagine stepping into your local pharmacy—the place where you ask questions, get vaccines, and Read more…
Do you know how you are going to feed your family this month?
Families/Kids Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Update: A federal judge ruled that emergency funds can be used for SNAP, but it’s not yet clear if this applies to all states or only those involved in the lawsuit. The decision could also be appealed or delayed. Even if funds are released, it will take time for them to reach families. That’s why Read more…
Intimate Partner Violence in Rural Communities: What We Know and What Can Help
Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
People experiencing intimate partner violence who live in rural communities often face bigger challenges and have fewer options for safety and support. But when prevention and support programs are adapted to fit rural life, they can make a real difference – improving safety, expanding options, and helping build healthy relationships across communities. Intimate partner violence Read more…
I’ve been hearing a lot about organ donation — should I worry, and how can I make my wishes known?
General Health Health Policy
Heather Duncan, MPH, PhD
Organ donation is a complicated medical and legal topic, and some are calling for more transparency and regulation. Learning about the process can help you know how to communicate your wishes ahead of time. We don’t typically think of organ donation as a controversial topic. When I applied for my first driver’s license I checked Read more…
I asked a bunch of kids what a “healthy neighborhood” looks like to them.
Families/Kids Health Policy Nerdy Notes
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
This is another in our new series Nerdy Notes: Science in Story & Verse. In these posts, our Nerdy Girl scientists and clinicians will share personal stories, insights, poetry, and more. While these posts may be lighter in terms of numbers and figures, they will still be rooted in our tradition and commitment to providing Read more…
Health in Rural America: 8 Challenges and Things That Can Help
General Health Health Policy
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Funding for rural hospitals and healthcare is making headlines right now, shining a light on challenges that affect millions. In the U.S., about 1 in 5 people live in rural areas. That’s 60 million people, yet rural communities are sometimes left out of public health conversations. I’ve lived in rural areas for almost 20 years, Read more…
What is gun violence, and who does it affect?
Data and Metrics Health Policy
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Gun violence is an alarming public health crisis in the United States. Its toll goes well beyond the thousands of lives lost each year. It devastates families and communities. It threatens our sense of safety and security. In this post on gun violence as a public health issue, we explain the different types of violence Read more…
What is the USPSTF and why does it matter?
Health Policy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
The USPSTF is an independent advisory panel of experts who make evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services. In the last few weeks, the little known agency called the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has made the news. The Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has discussed removing all of the Read more…
What’s the difference between a DO and MD?
General Health Health Policy
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: If you’re looking for a physician, either is fine! When looking online for a doctor, you might have noticed that some physicians are MDs and others are DOs. MD stands for doctor of medicine and DO stands for doctor of osteopathic medicine. So what’s the difference, and does it matter? Practically, there is no Read more…
⚠️ On May 1, 2026, a U.S. federal appeals court restricted telemedicine access to mifepristone across the country, affecting all states, even states where people currently have access to abortion care. The U.S. Supreme Court temporarily paused that ruling. Mifepristone can still be prescribed via telemedicine and mailed to patients at least through May 11, Read more…
It’s National Public Health Week!
Health Policy
Riddle us this, Nerdies! What is crucial for the well-being of everyone but is all but invisible when it’s working effectively? Public Health, of course! It’s National Public Health Week, and Those Nerdy Girls would like to show our support to all our public health colleagues and raise up their voices and good deeds. We Read more…
Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health
Health Policy Nerdy Nexus Social and Racial JusticeGuest Author Nicole Loew, PhD, RN
This post was written by Guest Contributor Dr. Nicole Loew. She has her PhD in nursing from the University of Iowa, and her research interests include understanding how women’s contexts impact their perspectives of sexual health and their sexual behavior. Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health When we talk about health, most Read more…
What is the USPSTF and why does it matter?
General Health Health Policy Hot Health Topics
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) is an independent advisory panel of experts who make evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services. (This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original published on August 22, 2025.) In July 2025, the current Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) abruptly canceled a meeting Read more…
What Is Implementation Science?
General Health Health Policy
Guest Author Bertha A. Hidalgo, PhD, MPH, FACE
Implementation science is the study of how to make sure good, evidence-based ideas in medicine and public health actually reach people. In the hospital, very sick patients may need a central line to receive important medicines and fluids. In the past, these helpful tubes too often led to serious infections in the bloodstream. Doctors already Read more…
What’s going on with this U.S. childhood vaccine schedule change?
Health Policy Vaccines
The U.S. federal government recently announced big changes to the childhood vaccine schedule. It is reducing the number of vaccines “routinely” recommended for all kids and moving several vaccines into an “optional/shared decision” category instead. This means they’re only routinely recommending protection against 11 diseases, instead of 17. Those Nerdy Girls and many other public Read more…
What’s with the American Heart Association’s new claims about the heart healthiness of alcohol?
General Health Health Policy
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
The American Heart Association (AHA) recently suggested that light drinking may be a positive for heart health. The health benefits of even moderate alcohol use seem very small while the risks are real. In July, the Association, which is a leader in the heart health field, published a review suggesting that not only is light Read more…
What exactly are ethics, and how important are they in human medical research?
Health Policy Treatments Vaccines
Sandy Laping, MSc
Ethics are a set of principles that help us figure out what’s right and wrong. In medical research, they help to keep the people taking part safe, make sure the research does more good than harm, and ensure the results can be trusted. Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original Read more…
What Really Works to Prevent Youth Substance Use?
Health Policy
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
As with many other health issues, strong, supportive relationships, social-emotional and practical skills, policies that reduce harm, and communities where young people are able to thrive help most to prevent and reduce youth substance use. 🍳 “This is your brain on drugs. From the mid-1980s through the early 2000s, several widely promoted drug-prevention efforts in Read more…
From Civil Rights Hubs to Pharmacy Deserts: What Pharmacy Closures Mean—And How You Can Take Action
General Health Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
Pharmacies provide essential care, from medications to vaccinations and more. The loss of a nearby pharmacy hurts the people who rely on it the most. Here’s why more pharmacies are closing—and what you can do to support pharmacy access for all. Imagine stepping into your local pharmacy—the place where you ask questions, get vaccines, and Read more…
Do you know how you are going to feed your family this month?
Families/Kids Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Update: A federal judge ruled that emergency funds can be used for SNAP, but it’s not yet clear if this applies to all states or only those involved in the lawsuit. The decision could also be appealed or delayed. Even if funds are released, it will take time for them to reach families. That’s why Read more…
Intimate Partner Violence in Rural Communities: What We Know and What Can Help
Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
People experiencing intimate partner violence who live in rural communities often face bigger challenges and have fewer options for safety and support. But when prevention and support programs are adapted to fit rural life, they can make a real difference – improving safety, expanding options, and helping build healthy relationships across communities. Intimate partner violence Read more…
I’ve been hearing a lot about organ donation — should I worry, and how can I make my wishes known?
General Health Health Policy
Heather Duncan, MPH, PhD
Organ donation is a complicated medical and legal topic, and some are calling for more transparency and regulation. Learning about the process can help you know how to communicate your wishes ahead of time. We don’t typically think of organ donation as a controversial topic. When I applied for my first driver’s license I checked Read more…
I asked a bunch of kids what a “healthy neighborhood” looks like to them.
Families/Kids Health Policy Nerdy Notes
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
This is another in our new series Nerdy Notes: Science in Story & Verse. In these posts, our Nerdy Girl scientists and clinicians will share personal stories, insights, poetry, and more. While these posts may be lighter in terms of numbers and figures, they will still be rooted in our tradition and commitment to providing Read more…
Health in Rural America: 8 Challenges and Things That Can Help
General Health Health Policy
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Funding for rural hospitals and healthcare is making headlines right now, shining a light on challenges that affect millions. In the U.S., about 1 in 5 people live in rural areas. That’s 60 million people, yet rural communities are sometimes left out of public health conversations. I’ve lived in rural areas for almost 20 years, Read more…
What is gun violence, and who does it affect?
Data and Metrics Health Policy
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Gun violence is an alarming public health crisis in the United States. Its toll goes well beyond the thousands of lives lost each year. It devastates families and communities. It threatens our sense of safety and security. In this post on gun violence as a public health issue, we explain the different types of violence Read more…
What is the USPSTF and why does it matter?
Health Policy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
The USPSTF is an independent advisory panel of experts who make evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services. In the last few weeks, the little known agency called the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has made the news. The Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has discussed removing all of the Read more…
What’s the difference between a DO and MD?
General Health Health Policy
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: If you’re looking for a physician, either is fine! When looking online for a doctor, you might have noticed that some physicians are MDs and others are DOs. MD stands for doctor of medicine and DO stands for doctor of osteopathic medicine. So what’s the difference, and does it matter? Practically, there is no Read more…
This post was written by Guest Contributor Dr. Nicole Loew. She has her PhD in nursing from the University of Iowa, and her research interests include understanding how women’s contexts impact their perspectives of sexual health and their sexual behavior. Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health When we talk about health, most Read more…
What is the USPSTF and why does it matter?
General Health Health Policy Hot Health TopicsSarah Whitley Coles, MD
The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) is an independent advisory panel of experts who make evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services. (This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original published on August 22, 2025.) In July 2025, the current Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) abruptly canceled a meeting Read more…
What Is Implementation Science?
General Health Health Policy
Guest Author Bertha A. Hidalgo, PhD, MPH, FACE
Implementation science is the study of how to make sure good, evidence-based ideas in medicine and public health actually reach people. In the hospital, very sick patients may need a central line to receive important medicines and fluids. In the past, these helpful tubes too often led to serious infections in the bloodstream. Doctors already Read more…
What’s going on with this U.S. childhood vaccine schedule change?
Health Policy Vaccines
The U.S. federal government recently announced big changes to the childhood vaccine schedule. It is reducing the number of vaccines “routinely” recommended for all kids and moving several vaccines into an “optional/shared decision” category instead. This means they’re only routinely recommending protection against 11 diseases, instead of 17. Those Nerdy Girls and many other public Read more…
What’s with the American Heart Association’s new claims about the heart healthiness of alcohol?
General Health Health Policy
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
The American Heart Association (AHA) recently suggested that light drinking may be a positive for heart health. The health benefits of even moderate alcohol use seem very small while the risks are real. In July, the Association, which is a leader in the heart health field, published a review suggesting that not only is light Read more…
What exactly are ethics, and how important are they in human medical research?
Health Policy Treatments Vaccines
Sandy Laping, MSc
Ethics are a set of principles that help us figure out what’s right and wrong. In medical research, they help to keep the people taking part safe, make sure the research does more good than harm, and ensure the results can be trusted. Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original Read more…
What Really Works to Prevent Youth Substance Use?
Health Policy
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
As with many other health issues, strong, supportive relationships, social-emotional and practical skills, policies that reduce harm, and communities where young people are able to thrive help most to prevent and reduce youth substance use. 🍳 “This is your brain on drugs. From the mid-1980s through the early 2000s, several widely promoted drug-prevention efforts in Read more…
From Civil Rights Hubs to Pharmacy Deserts: What Pharmacy Closures Mean—And How You Can Take Action
General Health Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
Pharmacies provide essential care, from medications to vaccinations and more. The loss of a nearby pharmacy hurts the people who rely on it the most. Here’s why more pharmacies are closing—and what you can do to support pharmacy access for all. Imagine stepping into your local pharmacy—the place where you ask questions, get vaccines, and Read more…
Do you know how you are going to feed your family this month?
Families/Kids Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Update: A federal judge ruled that emergency funds can be used for SNAP, but it’s not yet clear if this applies to all states or only those involved in the lawsuit. The decision could also be appealed or delayed. Even if funds are released, it will take time for them to reach families. That’s why Read more…
Intimate Partner Violence in Rural Communities: What We Know and What Can Help
Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
People experiencing intimate partner violence who live in rural communities often face bigger challenges and have fewer options for safety and support. But when prevention and support programs are adapted to fit rural life, they can make a real difference – improving safety, expanding options, and helping build healthy relationships across communities. Intimate partner violence Read more…
I’ve been hearing a lot about organ donation — should I worry, and how can I make my wishes known?
General Health Health Policy
Heather Duncan, MPH, PhD
Organ donation is a complicated medical and legal topic, and some are calling for more transparency and regulation. Learning about the process can help you know how to communicate your wishes ahead of time. We don’t typically think of organ donation as a controversial topic. When I applied for my first driver’s license I checked Read more…
I asked a bunch of kids what a “healthy neighborhood” looks like to them.
Families/Kids Health Policy Nerdy Notes
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
This is another in our new series Nerdy Notes: Science in Story & Verse. In these posts, our Nerdy Girl scientists and clinicians will share personal stories, insights, poetry, and more. While these posts may be lighter in terms of numbers and figures, they will still be rooted in our tradition and commitment to providing Read more…
Health in Rural America: 8 Challenges and Things That Can Help
General Health Health Policy
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Funding for rural hospitals and healthcare is making headlines right now, shining a light on challenges that affect millions. In the U.S., about 1 in 5 people live in rural areas. That’s 60 million people, yet rural communities are sometimes left out of public health conversations. I’ve lived in rural areas for almost 20 years, Read more…
What is gun violence, and who does it affect?
Data and Metrics Health Policy
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Gun violence is an alarming public health crisis in the United States. Its toll goes well beyond the thousands of lives lost each year. It devastates families and communities. It threatens our sense of safety and security. In this post on gun violence as a public health issue, we explain the different types of violence Read more…
What is the USPSTF and why does it matter?
Health Policy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
The USPSTF is an independent advisory panel of experts who make evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services. In the last few weeks, the little known agency called the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has made the news. The Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has discussed removing all of the Read more…
What’s the difference between a DO and MD?
General Health Health Policy
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: If you’re looking for a physician, either is fine! When looking online for a doctor, you might have noticed that some physicians are MDs and others are DOs. MD stands for doctor of medicine and DO stands for doctor of osteopathic medicine. So what’s the difference, and does it matter? Practically, there is no Read more…
The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) is an independent advisory panel of experts who make evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services. (This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original published on August 22, 2025.) In July 2025, the current Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) abruptly canceled a meeting Read more…
What Is Implementation Science?
General Health Health PolicyGuest Author Bertha A. Hidalgo, PhD, MPH, FACE
Implementation science is the study of how to make sure good, evidence-based ideas in medicine and public health actually reach people. In the hospital, very sick patients may need a central line to receive important medicines and fluids. In the past, these helpful tubes too often led to serious infections in the bloodstream. Doctors already Read more…
What’s going on with this U.S. childhood vaccine schedule change?
Health Policy Vaccines
The U.S. federal government recently announced big changes to the childhood vaccine schedule. It is reducing the number of vaccines “routinely” recommended for all kids and moving several vaccines into an “optional/shared decision” category instead. This means they’re only routinely recommending protection against 11 diseases, instead of 17. Those Nerdy Girls and many other public Read more…
What’s with the American Heart Association’s new claims about the heart healthiness of alcohol?
General Health Health Policy
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
The American Heart Association (AHA) recently suggested that light drinking may be a positive for heart health. The health benefits of even moderate alcohol use seem very small while the risks are real. In July, the Association, which is a leader in the heart health field, published a review suggesting that not only is light Read more…
What exactly are ethics, and how important are they in human medical research?
Health Policy Treatments Vaccines
Sandy Laping, MSc
Ethics are a set of principles that help us figure out what’s right and wrong. In medical research, they help to keep the people taking part safe, make sure the research does more good than harm, and ensure the results can be trusted. Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original Read more…
What Really Works to Prevent Youth Substance Use?
Health Policy
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
As with many other health issues, strong, supportive relationships, social-emotional and practical skills, policies that reduce harm, and communities where young people are able to thrive help most to prevent and reduce youth substance use. 🍳 “This is your brain on drugs. From the mid-1980s through the early 2000s, several widely promoted drug-prevention efforts in Read more…
From Civil Rights Hubs to Pharmacy Deserts: What Pharmacy Closures Mean—And How You Can Take Action
General Health Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
Pharmacies provide essential care, from medications to vaccinations and more. The loss of a nearby pharmacy hurts the people who rely on it the most. Here’s why more pharmacies are closing—and what you can do to support pharmacy access for all. Imagine stepping into your local pharmacy—the place where you ask questions, get vaccines, and Read more…
Do you know how you are going to feed your family this month?
Families/Kids Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Update: A federal judge ruled that emergency funds can be used for SNAP, but it’s not yet clear if this applies to all states or only those involved in the lawsuit. The decision could also be appealed or delayed. Even if funds are released, it will take time for them to reach families. That’s why Read more…
Intimate Partner Violence in Rural Communities: What We Know and What Can Help
Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
People experiencing intimate partner violence who live in rural communities often face bigger challenges and have fewer options for safety and support. But when prevention and support programs are adapted to fit rural life, they can make a real difference – improving safety, expanding options, and helping build healthy relationships across communities. Intimate partner violence Read more…
I’ve been hearing a lot about organ donation — should I worry, and how can I make my wishes known?
General Health Health Policy
Heather Duncan, MPH, PhD
Organ donation is a complicated medical and legal topic, and some are calling for more transparency and regulation. Learning about the process can help you know how to communicate your wishes ahead of time. We don’t typically think of organ donation as a controversial topic. When I applied for my first driver’s license I checked Read more…
I asked a bunch of kids what a “healthy neighborhood” looks like to them.
Families/Kids Health Policy Nerdy Notes
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
This is another in our new series Nerdy Notes: Science in Story & Verse. In these posts, our Nerdy Girl scientists and clinicians will share personal stories, insights, poetry, and more. While these posts may be lighter in terms of numbers and figures, they will still be rooted in our tradition and commitment to providing Read more…
Health in Rural America: 8 Challenges and Things That Can Help
General Health Health Policy
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Funding for rural hospitals and healthcare is making headlines right now, shining a light on challenges that affect millions. In the U.S., about 1 in 5 people live in rural areas. That’s 60 million people, yet rural communities are sometimes left out of public health conversations. I’ve lived in rural areas for almost 20 years, Read more…
What is gun violence, and who does it affect?
Data and Metrics Health Policy
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Gun violence is an alarming public health crisis in the United States. Its toll goes well beyond the thousands of lives lost each year. It devastates families and communities. It threatens our sense of safety and security. In this post on gun violence as a public health issue, we explain the different types of violence Read more…
What is the USPSTF and why does it matter?
Health Policy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
The USPSTF is an independent advisory panel of experts who make evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services. In the last few weeks, the little known agency called the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has made the news. The Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has discussed removing all of the Read more…
What’s the difference between a DO and MD?
General Health Health Policy
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: If you’re looking for a physician, either is fine! When looking online for a doctor, you might have noticed that some physicians are MDs and others are DOs. MD stands for doctor of medicine and DO stands for doctor of osteopathic medicine. So what’s the difference, and does it matter? Practically, there is no Read more…
Implementation science is the study of how to make sure good, evidence-based ideas in medicine and public health actually reach people. In the hospital, very sick patients may need a central line to receive important medicines and fluids. In the past, these helpful tubes too often led to serious infections in the bloodstream. Doctors already Read more…
What’s going on with this U.S. childhood vaccine schedule change?
Health Policy Vaccines
The U.S. federal government recently announced big changes to the childhood vaccine schedule. It is reducing the number of vaccines “routinely” recommended for all kids and moving several vaccines into an “optional/shared decision” category instead. This means they’re only routinely recommending protection against 11 diseases, instead of 17. Those Nerdy Girls and many other public Read more…
What’s with the American Heart Association’s new claims about the heart healthiness of alcohol?
General Health Health PolicySara Gorman, PhD, MPH
The American Heart Association (AHA) recently suggested that light drinking may be a positive for heart health. The health benefits of even moderate alcohol use seem very small while the risks are real. In July, the Association, which is a leader in the heart health field, published a review suggesting that not only is light Read more…
What exactly are ethics, and how important are they in human medical research?
Health Policy Treatments Vaccines
Sandy Laping, MSc
Ethics are a set of principles that help us figure out what’s right and wrong. In medical research, they help to keep the people taking part safe, make sure the research does more good than harm, and ensure the results can be trusted. Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original Read more…
What Really Works to Prevent Youth Substance Use?
Health Policy
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
As with many other health issues, strong, supportive relationships, social-emotional and practical skills, policies that reduce harm, and communities where young people are able to thrive help most to prevent and reduce youth substance use. 🍳 “This is your brain on drugs. From the mid-1980s through the early 2000s, several widely promoted drug-prevention efforts in Read more…
From Civil Rights Hubs to Pharmacy Deserts: What Pharmacy Closures Mean—And How You Can Take Action
General Health Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
Pharmacies provide essential care, from medications to vaccinations and more. The loss of a nearby pharmacy hurts the people who rely on it the most. Here’s why more pharmacies are closing—and what you can do to support pharmacy access for all. Imagine stepping into your local pharmacy—the place where you ask questions, get vaccines, and Read more…
Do you know how you are going to feed your family this month?
Families/Kids Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Update: A federal judge ruled that emergency funds can be used for SNAP, but it’s not yet clear if this applies to all states or only those involved in the lawsuit. The decision could also be appealed or delayed. Even if funds are released, it will take time for them to reach families. That’s why Read more…
Intimate Partner Violence in Rural Communities: What We Know and What Can Help
Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
People experiencing intimate partner violence who live in rural communities often face bigger challenges and have fewer options for safety and support. But when prevention and support programs are adapted to fit rural life, they can make a real difference – improving safety, expanding options, and helping build healthy relationships across communities. Intimate partner violence Read more…
I’ve been hearing a lot about organ donation — should I worry, and how can I make my wishes known?
General Health Health Policy
Heather Duncan, MPH, PhD
Organ donation is a complicated medical and legal topic, and some are calling for more transparency and regulation. Learning about the process can help you know how to communicate your wishes ahead of time. We don’t typically think of organ donation as a controversial topic. When I applied for my first driver’s license I checked Read more…
I asked a bunch of kids what a “healthy neighborhood” looks like to them.
Families/Kids Health Policy Nerdy Notes
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
This is another in our new series Nerdy Notes: Science in Story & Verse. In these posts, our Nerdy Girl scientists and clinicians will share personal stories, insights, poetry, and more. While these posts may be lighter in terms of numbers and figures, they will still be rooted in our tradition and commitment to providing Read more…
Health in Rural America: 8 Challenges and Things That Can Help
General Health Health Policy
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Funding for rural hospitals and healthcare is making headlines right now, shining a light on challenges that affect millions. In the U.S., about 1 in 5 people live in rural areas. That’s 60 million people, yet rural communities are sometimes left out of public health conversations. I’ve lived in rural areas for almost 20 years, Read more…
What is gun violence, and who does it affect?
Data and Metrics Health Policy
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Gun violence is an alarming public health crisis in the United States. Its toll goes well beyond the thousands of lives lost each year. It devastates families and communities. It threatens our sense of safety and security. In this post on gun violence as a public health issue, we explain the different types of violence Read more…
What is the USPSTF and why does it matter?
Health Policy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
The USPSTF is an independent advisory panel of experts who make evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services. In the last few weeks, the little known agency called the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has made the news. The Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has discussed removing all of the Read more…
What’s the difference between a DO and MD?
General Health Health Policy
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: If you’re looking for a physician, either is fine! When looking online for a doctor, you might have noticed that some physicians are MDs and others are DOs. MD stands for doctor of medicine and DO stands for doctor of osteopathic medicine. So what’s the difference, and does it matter? Practically, there is no Read more…
The American Heart Association (AHA) recently suggested that light drinking may be a positive for heart health. The health benefits of even moderate alcohol use seem very small while the risks are real. In July, the Association, which is a leader in the heart health field, published a review suggesting that not only is light Read more…
What exactly are ethics, and how important are they in human medical research?
Health Policy Treatments VaccinesSandy Laping, MSc
Ethics are a set of principles that help us figure out what’s right and wrong. In medical research, they help to keep the people taking part safe, make sure the research does more good than harm, and ensure the results can be trusted. Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original Read more…
What Really Works to Prevent Youth Substance Use?
Health Policy
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
As with many other health issues, strong, supportive relationships, social-emotional and practical skills, policies that reduce harm, and communities where young people are able to thrive help most to prevent and reduce youth substance use. 🍳 “This is your brain on drugs. From the mid-1980s through the early 2000s, several widely promoted drug-prevention efforts in Read more…
From Civil Rights Hubs to Pharmacy Deserts: What Pharmacy Closures Mean—And How You Can Take Action
General Health Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
Pharmacies provide essential care, from medications to vaccinations and more. The loss of a nearby pharmacy hurts the people who rely on it the most. Here’s why more pharmacies are closing—and what you can do to support pharmacy access for all. Imagine stepping into your local pharmacy—the place where you ask questions, get vaccines, and Read more…
Do you know how you are going to feed your family this month?
Families/Kids Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Update: A federal judge ruled that emergency funds can be used for SNAP, but it’s not yet clear if this applies to all states or only those involved in the lawsuit. The decision could also be appealed or delayed. Even if funds are released, it will take time for them to reach families. That’s why Read more…
Intimate Partner Violence in Rural Communities: What We Know and What Can Help
Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
People experiencing intimate partner violence who live in rural communities often face bigger challenges and have fewer options for safety and support. But when prevention and support programs are adapted to fit rural life, they can make a real difference – improving safety, expanding options, and helping build healthy relationships across communities. Intimate partner violence Read more…
I’ve been hearing a lot about organ donation — should I worry, and how can I make my wishes known?
General Health Health Policy
Heather Duncan, MPH, PhD
Organ donation is a complicated medical and legal topic, and some are calling for more transparency and regulation. Learning about the process can help you know how to communicate your wishes ahead of time. We don’t typically think of organ donation as a controversial topic. When I applied for my first driver’s license I checked Read more…
I asked a bunch of kids what a “healthy neighborhood” looks like to them.
Families/Kids Health Policy Nerdy Notes
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
This is another in our new series Nerdy Notes: Science in Story & Verse. In these posts, our Nerdy Girl scientists and clinicians will share personal stories, insights, poetry, and more. While these posts may be lighter in terms of numbers and figures, they will still be rooted in our tradition and commitment to providing Read more…
Health in Rural America: 8 Challenges and Things That Can Help
General Health Health Policy
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Funding for rural hospitals and healthcare is making headlines right now, shining a light on challenges that affect millions. In the U.S., about 1 in 5 people live in rural areas. That’s 60 million people, yet rural communities are sometimes left out of public health conversations. I’ve lived in rural areas for almost 20 years, Read more…
What is gun violence, and who does it affect?
Data and Metrics Health Policy
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Gun violence is an alarming public health crisis in the United States. Its toll goes well beyond the thousands of lives lost each year. It devastates families and communities. It threatens our sense of safety and security. In this post on gun violence as a public health issue, we explain the different types of violence Read more…
What is the USPSTF and why does it matter?
Health Policy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
The USPSTF is an independent advisory panel of experts who make evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services. In the last few weeks, the little known agency called the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has made the news. The Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has discussed removing all of the Read more…
What’s the difference between a DO and MD?
General Health Health Policy
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: If you’re looking for a physician, either is fine! When looking online for a doctor, you might have noticed that some physicians are MDs and others are DOs. MD stands for doctor of medicine and DO stands for doctor of osteopathic medicine. So what’s the difference, and does it matter? Practically, there is no Read more…
Ethics are a set of principles that help us figure out what’s right and wrong. In medical research, they help to keep the people taking part safe, make sure the research does more good than harm, and ensure the results can be trusted. Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original Read more…
What Really Works to Prevent Youth Substance Use?
Health PolicyIlana Gerjuoy, MPH
As with many other health issues, strong, supportive relationships, social-emotional and practical skills, policies that reduce harm, and communities where young people are able to thrive help most to prevent and reduce youth substance use. 🍳 “This is your brain on drugs. From the mid-1980s through the early 2000s, several widely promoted drug-prevention efforts in Read more…
From Civil Rights Hubs to Pharmacy Deserts: What Pharmacy Closures Mean—And How You Can Take Action
General Health Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
Pharmacies provide essential care, from medications to vaccinations and more. The loss of a nearby pharmacy hurts the people who rely on it the most. Here’s why more pharmacies are closing—and what you can do to support pharmacy access for all. Imagine stepping into your local pharmacy—the place where you ask questions, get vaccines, and Read more…
Do you know how you are going to feed your family this month?
Families/Kids Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Update: A federal judge ruled that emergency funds can be used for SNAP, but it’s not yet clear if this applies to all states or only those involved in the lawsuit. The decision could also be appealed or delayed. Even if funds are released, it will take time for them to reach families. That’s why Read more…
Intimate Partner Violence in Rural Communities: What We Know and What Can Help
Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
People experiencing intimate partner violence who live in rural communities often face bigger challenges and have fewer options for safety and support. But when prevention and support programs are adapted to fit rural life, they can make a real difference – improving safety, expanding options, and helping build healthy relationships across communities. Intimate partner violence Read more…
I’ve been hearing a lot about organ donation — should I worry, and how can I make my wishes known?
General Health Health Policy
Heather Duncan, MPH, PhD
Organ donation is a complicated medical and legal topic, and some are calling for more transparency and regulation. Learning about the process can help you know how to communicate your wishes ahead of time. We don’t typically think of organ donation as a controversial topic. When I applied for my first driver’s license I checked Read more…
I asked a bunch of kids what a “healthy neighborhood” looks like to them.
Families/Kids Health Policy Nerdy Notes
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
This is another in our new series Nerdy Notes: Science in Story & Verse. In these posts, our Nerdy Girl scientists and clinicians will share personal stories, insights, poetry, and more. While these posts may be lighter in terms of numbers and figures, they will still be rooted in our tradition and commitment to providing Read more…
Health in Rural America: 8 Challenges and Things That Can Help
General Health Health Policy
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Funding for rural hospitals and healthcare is making headlines right now, shining a light on challenges that affect millions. In the U.S., about 1 in 5 people live in rural areas. That’s 60 million people, yet rural communities are sometimes left out of public health conversations. I’ve lived in rural areas for almost 20 years, Read more…
What is gun violence, and who does it affect?
Data and Metrics Health Policy
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Gun violence is an alarming public health crisis in the United States. Its toll goes well beyond the thousands of lives lost each year. It devastates families and communities. It threatens our sense of safety and security. In this post on gun violence as a public health issue, we explain the different types of violence Read more…
What is the USPSTF and why does it matter?
Health Policy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
The USPSTF is an independent advisory panel of experts who make evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services. In the last few weeks, the little known agency called the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has made the news. The Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has discussed removing all of the Read more…
What’s the difference between a DO and MD?
General Health Health Policy
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: If you’re looking for a physician, either is fine! When looking online for a doctor, you might have noticed that some physicians are MDs and others are DOs. MD stands for doctor of medicine and DO stands for doctor of osteopathic medicine. So what’s the difference, and does it matter? Practically, there is no Read more…
As with many other health issues, strong, supportive relationships, social-emotional and practical skills, policies that reduce harm, and communities where young people are able to thrive help most to prevent and reduce youth substance use. 🍳 “This is your brain on drugs. From the mid-1980s through the early 2000s, several widely promoted drug-prevention efforts in Read more…
From Civil Rights Hubs to Pharmacy Deserts: What Pharmacy Closures Mean—And How You Can Take Action
General Health Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
Pharmacies provide essential care, from medications to vaccinations and more. The loss of a nearby pharmacy hurts the people who rely on it the most. Here’s why more pharmacies are closing—and what you can do to support pharmacy access for all. Imagine stepping into your local pharmacy—the place where you ask questions, get vaccines, and Read more…
Do you know how you are going to feed your family this month?
Families/Kids Health Policy Social and Racial JusticeMK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Update: A federal judge ruled that emergency funds can be used for SNAP, but it’s not yet clear if this applies to all states or only those involved in the lawsuit. The decision could also be appealed or delayed. Even if funds are released, it will take time for them to reach families. That’s why Read more…
Intimate Partner Violence in Rural Communities: What We Know and What Can Help
Health Policy Social and Racial Justice
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
People experiencing intimate partner violence who live in rural communities often face bigger challenges and have fewer options for safety and support. But when prevention and support programs are adapted to fit rural life, they can make a real difference – improving safety, expanding options, and helping build healthy relationships across communities. Intimate partner violence Read more…
I’ve been hearing a lot about organ donation — should I worry, and how can I make my wishes known?
General Health Health Policy
Heather Duncan, MPH, PhD
Organ donation is a complicated medical and legal topic, and some are calling for more transparency and regulation. Learning about the process can help you know how to communicate your wishes ahead of time. We don’t typically think of organ donation as a controversial topic. When I applied for my first driver’s license I checked Read more…
I asked a bunch of kids what a “healthy neighborhood” looks like to them.
Families/Kids Health Policy Nerdy Notes
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
This is another in our new series Nerdy Notes: Science in Story & Verse. In these posts, our Nerdy Girl scientists and clinicians will share personal stories, insights, poetry, and more. While these posts may be lighter in terms of numbers and figures, they will still be rooted in our tradition and commitment to providing Read more…
Health in Rural America: 8 Challenges and Things That Can Help
General Health Health Policy
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Funding for rural hospitals and healthcare is making headlines right now, shining a light on challenges that affect millions. In the U.S., about 1 in 5 people live in rural areas. That’s 60 million people, yet rural communities are sometimes left out of public health conversations. I’ve lived in rural areas for almost 20 years, Read more…
What is gun violence, and who does it affect?
Data and Metrics Health Policy
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Gun violence is an alarming public health crisis in the United States. Its toll goes well beyond the thousands of lives lost each year. It devastates families and communities. It threatens our sense of safety and security. In this post on gun violence as a public health issue, we explain the different types of violence Read more…
What is the USPSTF and why does it matter?
Health Policy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
The USPSTF is an independent advisory panel of experts who make evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services. In the last few weeks, the little known agency called the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has made the news. The Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has discussed removing all of the Read more…
What’s the difference between a DO and MD?
General Health Health Policy
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: If you’re looking for a physician, either is fine! When looking online for a doctor, you might have noticed that some physicians are MDs and others are DOs. MD stands for doctor of medicine and DO stands for doctor of osteopathic medicine. So what’s the difference, and does it matter? Practically, there is no Read more…
Update: A federal judge ruled that emergency funds can be used for SNAP, but it’s not yet clear if this applies to all states or only those involved in the lawsuit. The decision could also be appealed or delayed. Even if funds are released, it will take time for them to reach families. That’s why Read more…
Intimate Partner Violence in Rural Communities: What We Know and What Can Help
Health Policy Social and Racial JusticeIlana Gerjuoy, MPH
People experiencing intimate partner violence who live in rural communities often face bigger challenges and have fewer options for safety and support. But when prevention and support programs are adapted to fit rural life, they can make a real difference – improving safety, expanding options, and helping build healthy relationships across communities. Intimate partner violence Read more…
I’ve been hearing a lot about organ donation — should I worry, and how can I make my wishes known?
General Health Health Policy
Heather Duncan, MPH, PhD
Organ donation is a complicated medical and legal topic, and some are calling for more transparency and regulation. Learning about the process can help you know how to communicate your wishes ahead of time. We don’t typically think of organ donation as a controversial topic. When I applied for my first driver’s license I checked Read more…
I asked a bunch of kids what a “healthy neighborhood” looks like to them.
Families/Kids Health Policy Nerdy Notes
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
This is another in our new series Nerdy Notes: Science in Story & Verse. In these posts, our Nerdy Girl scientists and clinicians will share personal stories, insights, poetry, and more. While these posts may be lighter in terms of numbers and figures, they will still be rooted in our tradition and commitment to providing Read more…
Health in Rural America: 8 Challenges and Things That Can Help
General Health Health Policy
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Funding for rural hospitals and healthcare is making headlines right now, shining a light on challenges that affect millions. In the U.S., about 1 in 5 people live in rural areas. That’s 60 million people, yet rural communities are sometimes left out of public health conversations. I’ve lived in rural areas for almost 20 years, Read more…
What is gun violence, and who does it affect?
Data and Metrics Health Policy
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Gun violence is an alarming public health crisis in the United States. Its toll goes well beyond the thousands of lives lost each year. It devastates families and communities. It threatens our sense of safety and security. In this post on gun violence as a public health issue, we explain the different types of violence Read more…
What is the USPSTF and why does it matter?
Health Policy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
The USPSTF is an independent advisory panel of experts who make evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services. In the last few weeks, the little known agency called the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has made the news. The Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has discussed removing all of the Read more…
What’s the difference between a DO and MD?
General Health Health Policy
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: If you’re looking for a physician, either is fine! When looking online for a doctor, you might have noticed that some physicians are MDs and others are DOs. MD stands for doctor of medicine and DO stands for doctor of osteopathic medicine. So what’s the difference, and does it matter? Practically, there is no Read more…
People experiencing intimate partner violence who live in rural communities often face bigger challenges and have fewer options for safety and support. But when prevention and support programs are adapted to fit rural life, they can make a real difference – improving safety, expanding options, and helping build healthy relationships across communities. Intimate partner violence Read more…
I’ve been hearing a lot about organ donation — should I worry, and how can I make my wishes known?
General Health Health PolicyHeather Duncan, MPH, PhD
Organ donation is a complicated medical and legal topic, and some are calling for more transparency and regulation. Learning about the process can help you know how to communicate your wishes ahead of time. We don’t typically think of organ donation as a controversial topic. When I applied for my first driver’s license I checked Read more…
I asked a bunch of kids what a “healthy neighborhood” looks like to them.
Families/Kids Health Policy Nerdy Notes
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
This is another in our new series Nerdy Notes: Science in Story & Verse. In these posts, our Nerdy Girl scientists and clinicians will share personal stories, insights, poetry, and more. While these posts may be lighter in terms of numbers and figures, they will still be rooted in our tradition and commitment to providing Read more…
Health in Rural America: 8 Challenges and Things That Can Help
General Health Health Policy
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Funding for rural hospitals and healthcare is making headlines right now, shining a light on challenges that affect millions. In the U.S., about 1 in 5 people live in rural areas. That’s 60 million people, yet rural communities are sometimes left out of public health conversations. I’ve lived in rural areas for almost 20 years, Read more…
What is gun violence, and who does it affect?
Data and Metrics Health Policy
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Gun violence is an alarming public health crisis in the United States. Its toll goes well beyond the thousands of lives lost each year. It devastates families and communities. It threatens our sense of safety and security. In this post on gun violence as a public health issue, we explain the different types of violence Read more…
What is the USPSTF and why does it matter?
Health Policy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
The USPSTF is an independent advisory panel of experts who make evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services. In the last few weeks, the little known agency called the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has made the news. The Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has discussed removing all of the Read more…
What’s the difference between a DO and MD?
General Health Health Policy
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: If you’re looking for a physician, either is fine! When looking online for a doctor, you might have noticed that some physicians are MDs and others are DOs. MD stands for doctor of medicine and DO stands for doctor of osteopathic medicine. So what’s the difference, and does it matter? Practically, there is no Read more…
Organ donation is a complicated medical and legal topic, and some are calling for more transparency and regulation. Learning about the process can help you know how to communicate your wishes ahead of time. We don’t typically think of organ donation as a controversial topic. When I applied for my first driver’s license I checked Read more…
I asked a bunch of kids what a “healthy neighborhood” looks like to them.
Families/Kids Health Policy Nerdy NotesMacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
This is another in our new series Nerdy Notes: Science in Story & Verse. In these posts, our Nerdy Girl scientists and clinicians will share personal stories, insights, poetry, and more. While these posts may be lighter in terms of numbers and figures, they will still be rooted in our tradition and commitment to providing Read more…
Health in Rural America: 8 Challenges and Things That Can Help
General Health Health Policy
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Funding for rural hospitals and healthcare is making headlines right now, shining a light on challenges that affect millions. In the U.S., about 1 in 5 people live in rural areas. That’s 60 million people, yet rural communities are sometimes left out of public health conversations. I’ve lived in rural areas for almost 20 years, Read more…
What is gun violence, and who does it affect?
Data and Metrics Health Policy
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Gun violence is an alarming public health crisis in the United States. Its toll goes well beyond the thousands of lives lost each year. It devastates families and communities. It threatens our sense of safety and security. In this post on gun violence as a public health issue, we explain the different types of violence Read more…
What is the USPSTF and why does it matter?
Health Policy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
The USPSTF is an independent advisory panel of experts who make evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services. In the last few weeks, the little known agency called the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has made the news. The Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has discussed removing all of the Read more…
What’s the difference between a DO and MD?
General Health Health Policy
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: If you’re looking for a physician, either is fine! When looking online for a doctor, you might have noticed that some physicians are MDs and others are DOs. MD stands for doctor of medicine and DO stands for doctor of osteopathic medicine. So what’s the difference, and does it matter? Practically, there is no Read more…
This is another in our new series Nerdy Notes: Science in Story & Verse. In these posts, our Nerdy Girl scientists and clinicians will share personal stories, insights, poetry, and more. While these posts may be lighter in terms of numbers and figures, they will still be rooted in our tradition and commitment to providing Read more…
Health in Rural America: 8 Challenges and Things That Can Help
General Health Health PolicyIlana Gerjuoy, MPH
Funding for rural hospitals and healthcare is making headlines right now, shining a light on challenges that affect millions. In the U.S., about 1 in 5 people live in rural areas. That’s 60 million people, yet rural communities are sometimes left out of public health conversations. I’ve lived in rural areas for almost 20 years, Read more…
What is gun violence, and who does it affect?
Data and Metrics Health Policy
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Gun violence is an alarming public health crisis in the United States. Its toll goes well beyond the thousands of lives lost each year. It devastates families and communities. It threatens our sense of safety and security. In this post on gun violence as a public health issue, we explain the different types of violence Read more…
What is the USPSTF and why does it matter?
Health Policy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
The USPSTF is an independent advisory panel of experts who make evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services. In the last few weeks, the little known agency called the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has made the news. The Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has discussed removing all of the Read more…
What’s the difference between a DO and MD?
General Health Health Policy
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: If you’re looking for a physician, either is fine! When looking online for a doctor, you might have noticed that some physicians are MDs and others are DOs. MD stands for doctor of medicine and DO stands for doctor of osteopathic medicine. So what’s the difference, and does it matter? Practically, there is no Read more…
Funding for rural hospitals and healthcare is making headlines right now, shining a light on challenges that affect millions. In the U.S., about 1 in 5 people live in rural areas. That’s 60 million people, yet rural communities are sometimes left out of public health conversations. I’ve lived in rural areas for almost 20 years, Read more…
What is gun violence, and who does it affect?
Data and Metrics Health PolicyMK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Gun violence is an alarming public health crisis in the United States. Its toll goes well beyond the thousands of lives lost each year. It devastates families and communities. It threatens our sense of safety and security. In this post on gun violence as a public health issue, we explain the different types of violence Read more…
What is the USPSTF and why does it matter?
Health Policy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
The USPSTF is an independent advisory panel of experts who make evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services. In the last few weeks, the little known agency called the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has made the news. The Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has discussed removing all of the Read more…
What’s the difference between a DO and MD?
General Health Health Policy
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: If you’re looking for a physician, either is fine! When looking online for a doctor, you might have noticed that some physicians are MDs and others are DOs. MD stands for doctor of medicine and DO stands for doctor of osteopathic medicine. So what’s the difference, and does it matter? Practically, there is no Read more…
Gun violence is an alarming public health crisis in the United States. Its toll goes well beyond the thousands of lives lost each year. It devastates families and communities. It threatens our sense of safety and security. In this post on gun violence as a public health issue, we explain the different types of violence Read more…
What is the USPSTF and why does it matter?
Health PolicySarah Whitley Coles, MD
The USPSTF is an independent advisory panel of experts who make evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services. In the last few weeks, the little known agency called the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has made the news. The Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has discussed removing all of the Read more…
What’s the difference between a DO and MD?
General Health Health Policy
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: If you’re looking for a physician, either is fine! When looking online for a doctor, you might have noticed that some physicians are MDs and others are DOs. MD stands for doctor of medicine and DO stands for doctor of osteopathic medicine. So what’s the difference, and does it matter? Practically, there is no Read more…
The USPSTF is an independent advisory panel of experts who make evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services. In the last few weeks, the little known agency called the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has made the news. The Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has discussed removing all of the Read more…
What’s the difference between a DO and MD?
General Health Health PolicyRebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: If you’re looking for a physician, either is fine! When looking online for a doctor, you might have noticed that some physicians are MDs and others are DOs. MD stands for doctor of medicine and DO stands for doctor of osteopathic medicine. So what’s the difference, and does it matter? Practically, there is no Read more…
TL;DR: If you’re looking for a physician, either is fine! When looking online for a doctor, you might have noticed that some physicians are MDs and others are DOs. MD stands for doctor of medicine and DO stands for doctor of osteopathic medicine. So what’s the difference, and does it matter? Practically, there is no Read more…
