Health

Out-of-state patients account for three-fourths of Kansas abortions performed in 2024

TOPEKA — The number of abortions performed in Kansas during 2024 surpassed 19,000 for the second consecutive year in wake of judicial and political decisions in other states restricting access to the medical procedure. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment reported clinics and ...

You finally got a doctor’s appointment; here’s how to get the most out of it

WASHINGTON — It’s not unusual for a 20-something to text Mom in a panic from the doctor’s office, seeking help answering a question. And patients of any age can struggle to recall all their medicines — or forget to mention a concern. Getting the most out of a doctor’s visit requires ...

Sometimes laughter really might be the best medicine

Melanin Bee curves her spine like a stretching cat as she lets out a maniacal, forced laugh. The quick-fire pattern of manufactured giggles —”oh, hoo hoo hoo, eeh, ha ha ha”— soon ripples into genuine laughter, and she giddily kicks her feet. She’s practicing what she calls ...

The power of connection: Tips for finding comfort during the holiday season

It’s the most wonderful time of the year... Have you heard that refrain from an old Andy Williams song? Many of us look forward to celebrating the holidays with our friends and loved ones, but that’s not the case for everyone. When the world feels like it’s full of joy and ...

Federal cutbacks leave Kansans with fewer options to make health care decisions

TOPEKA — The federal government cut 90% of funding for a program that helps people enroll in Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act marketplace, leaving Kansans with fewer options for help understanding their health care options. The Navigator program paid for experts throughout the state to ...