HHS autism, Himsification, kidney transplant: Morning Rounds
The cancellation of a federal advisory committee on autism has caused quite a stir in the community. The Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee was set to meet later this month but has been called off, following the formation of a new independent committee with similar goals. This move came after Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. attempted to stack the federal committee with members who share his controversial views on autism and vaccines.
In other news, a recent study published in JAMA Neurology has shed light on the relationship between suicidality and response to antiseizure medications in epilepsy patients. The study found that individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts or attempts were at a higher risk of developing resistance to these medications, regardless of whether they had been diagnosed with a mood or anxiety disorder. This highlights the importance of addressing psychiatric issues in epilepsy treatment.
On the business front, Universal Health Services has made a significant investment in the mental health sector by acquiring virtual mental health company Talkspace for a whopping $835 million. This move comes at a time when digital health companies have been facing challenges due to the ongoing pandemic. Talkspace has shown steady growth and stability, making it an attractive investment for Universal Health Services.
In the realm of kidney transplants, a long-awaited policy change has had a positive impact on the system. The decision to phase out a race-based algorithm for measuring kidney function has led to an increase in transplants among Black patients. This change has been welcomed by experts like nephrologist Vanessa Grubbs, who have been advocating for a race-neutral approach in kidney transplant evaluations.
In a more reflective piece, physician Vishal Khetpal discusses the “Himsification” of medicine, referring to a trend where patients are seen as consumers seeking trendy and aspirational healthcare products and services. This shift away from the traditional model of medicine raises important questions about the future of healthcare delivery and patient care.
Lastly, a qualitative study published in JAMA Network Open highlights the challenges faced by individuals seeking abortions in states with restrictive laws. The study interviewed patients who had to travel out of state to receive an abortion, revealing the emotional and financial burdens they faced. These personal accounts shed light on the barriers to access to reproductive healthcare in certain regions.
Overall, these developments in the healthcare sector underscore the need for ongoing research, policy changes, and advocacy to ensure equitable and effective healthcare for all individuals.
