State and local bond sales are projected to reach $400 billion in 2024, a 7% increase from 2023, driven by infrastructure investments. Municipal bonds, which fund over 70% of state and local infrastructure projects, are expected to remain a reliable revenue source despite potential challenges from interest rate trends, investor demand, and economic conditions. Experts highlight the importance of municipal bonds for city financing and the potential impact of federal interest rate cuts on the market. However, high interest rates and broader economic trends may pose challenges for city leaders in attracting investors and managing costs.

The affordable housing shortage in U.S. cities has reached a crisis level, according to a panel discussion tied to the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies’ annual report. Panelists recommend zoning reform, denser housing development, and policies to lower costs for home buyers and renters. The report highlights challenges such as high interest rates and a surge in homelessness. Successful state-level initiatives in California and Massachusetts are cited as examples. Bipartisan cooperation and collaboration between states and cities are deemed essential for addressing the crisis. Federal support includes an $85 million grant program for zoning reform and affordable housing planning.

At least a dozen U.S. cities have launched basic income pilot programs recently, with about 100 such initiatives now active in North America. These pilots, supported by federal funding and a focus on economic and racial equity, aim to provide unconditional cash payments to residents. Early results from cities like Stockton show improved mental health and financial stability among recipients. However, challenges remain, such as legal issues in Pittsburgh and funding hurdles in San Francisco. Advocates hope these city-level pilots will pave the way for state or federal basic income policies.

The American Public Transportation Association reports significant workforce shortages among transit agencies, exacerbated by an aging workforce, competitive job market, and increased service demands. The Utah Transit Authority (UTA) has successfully revamped its hiring process, reducing the gap between hiring and start dates, and offering more flexible onboarding. Despite improvements, high turnover remains a challenge. The Federal Transit Administration's strategic plan emphasizes outreach and recruitment, while the Transit Workforce Center advises on workforce development. Future transit roles may evolve with technological advancements, requiring new skill sets.

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted a decade of economic expansion and inclusive growth in major U.S. metropolitan areas, particularly those with over 1 million people. A Brookings Institution report found that smaller metro areas with populations between 500,000 and 1 million performed better on inclusive growth measures such as wage gains and racial and economic inclusion. The report categorized metro areas based on their performance during the pandemic, with many large cities like New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Atlanta being 'tested' by the pandemic. Smaller metro areas like Cleveland, Sacramento, and Dallas showed strong inclusive growth. The findings highlight the importance of a holistic approach to measuring economic success beyond traditional metrics like jobs and GDP.

The Denver City Council has allocated $2 million from the American Rescue Plan Act funds to support the Denver Basic Income Project, which aims to provide cash assistance to 820 homeless individuals and families for one year. The project, led by the Denver Department of Housing Stability, is part of the city's 'housing first' strategy to combat homelessness. The initiative is particularly focused on women, transgender, and gender-nonconforming individuals. This effort is part of a broader trend of U.S. cities piloting cash assistance programs to address homelessness and economic instability exacerbated by the pandemic.

At least a dozen U.S. cities have recently launched basic income pilot programs, significantly increasing the number of such initiatives. These pilots, driven by federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act and public support from COVID-19 relief programs, aim to provide direct cash payments to residents without conditions. The programs vary in eligibility, duration, and amount but share the goal of improving individual and community outcomes. Early results from projects like Stockton, California, show promise in enhancing mental health and financial stability. However, challenges remain, such as legal concerns and logistical issues. Advocates hope these city-level pilots will build the case for broader state or federal implementation of basic income policies.

California's first state-funded guaranteed income program will distribute over $25 million to seven pilot projects, targeting nearly 2,000 pregnant individuals and former foster youth. The initiative aims to reduce poverty and support basic needs through unconditional cash payments ranging from $600 to $1,200 monthly for 12 to 18 months. The Urban Institute and the University of California, Berkeley, will evaluate the program's effectiveness. The initiative builds on the success of Stockton's Economic Empowerment Demonstration, which showed positive outcomes in employment and health among participants. Local governments across the U.S. are also exploring similar guaranteed income programs.

Cities are exploring government-run gig work platforms to support hourly workers, with Long Beach, California, leading the way by launching the first such platform in 2020. The program connects workers with local nonprofit employers and has expanded to include private sector opportunities. Other cities, supported by The Workers Lab, are considering similar initiatives. Challenges include securing initial funding and shifting local economic goals to accommodate flexible work arrangements.

The COVID-19 pandemic revealed significant weaknesses in the U.S. public health infrastructure, prompting advocates and a newly established institute to call for enhanced data systems to prevent future pandemics. Despite public concern, policymakers' focus appears to be waning, with current funding proposals falling short of initial requests. The Pandemic Prevention Institute, funded by the Rockefeller Foundation, aims to use advanced data analytics to create early warning systems for health threats. The institute, led by Dr. Rick Bright, seeks to bridge public and private sector efforts in public health. Polling indicates mixed public confidence in the government's ability to manage future pandemics, highlighting the need for sustained investment and collaboration.

Medicare Advantage is experiencing significant growth, with projections indicating that at least half of eligible beneficiaries will be enrolled by 2030. This expansion is driven by major health insurers, regional plans, and tech-centric startups offering competitive benefits. However, the market faces potential saturation, leading to slower growth for some large players. Concerns over higher spending in Medicare Advantage compared to traditional Medicare are debated, with some experts emphasizing the value of extra benefits. The Department of Justice is scrutinizing fraud within the program, while the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services are expected to refine risk adjustment models. Despite these challenges, Medicare Advantage's growth is likely to continue, influenced by both market dynamics and regulatory changes.

Long COVID affects up to 23 million Americans, with new data from FAIR Health showing its widespread impact across ages and genders. The analysis reveals that nearly 35% of long COVID patients are aged 36-50, and 32% are aged 51-64, with a notable 10% under 23 years old. Women and girls make up 60% of the cases. The Biden administration has released an action plan to address long COVID, but official data is still two years away. Patient advocacy groups like Survivor Corps are pushing for more research and data to understand and alleviate the condition's impact.

Austin is launching a yearlong pilot program to help lower-income residents stay in their homes amid rising displacement pressures. The Displacement Prevention Navigator program will hire community members to assist vulnerable renters and homeowners in accessing housing resources. The initiative, funded by the city's Housing Trust Fund, will operate in the Colony Park and Dove Springs neighborhoods, which face high displacement risks due to rising property values and infrastructure projects. The program aims to provide immediate support and gather data to improve housing resource accessibility, though it does not address the broader need for more affordable housing.

Drone delivery companies Zipline and Alphabet's Wing are upgrading their services to scale up and reach more customers. Wing aims for millions of deliveries by mid-2024, and Zipline wants to surpass most airlines in flights by 2025. Challenges include lowering operating costs, maximizing network efficiency, and gaining regulatory and consumer support. Strategies involve increasing delivery density, designing faster drones, and extending delivery ranges. DroneUp, collaborating with Walmart, faces limitations due to visual line of sight regulations. Public acceptance and adjustments to consumer habits are also necessary for the success of drone delivery services.

Local music ecosystems can boost economies and tourism by creating jobs, attracting talent, and enhancing community engagement, according to Jennifer Vey of the Brookings Institution. Music audits help cities understand the economic and social impact of their music industries and identify growth opportunities. Huntsville, Alabama, and Tulsa, Oklahoma, have made strategic investments in their music scenes, with Huntsville opening a new amphitheater and Tulsa hosting numerous live performances. These efforts contribute to placemaking and smart growth strategies.

City leaders in the United States are focusing on developing hyperlocal 'activity centers' to promote sustainable growth and reduce car dependency. These hubs combine business, retail, tourism, civic institutions, and social pursuits to facilitate access to essential services without driving. Research suggests that densely populated, transit-rich neighborhoods have lower carbon emissions, but local policies significantly influence this. Cities like San Antonio and Boise are planning to use activity centers to guide future development, aiming to enhance walkability, affordability, and mobility. The Brookings Institution and the Eno Center for Transportation support this model, emphasizing the importance of quality, location, and proximity of activity centers to each other, along with reliable public transit and safe pedestrian and cycling infrastructure.

The Boston City Council has unanimously voted to establish a commission to study and develop reparation proposals for African Americans, addressing the city's historical ties to slavery and ongoing racial inequities. The commission will examine Boston's involvement in the slave trade, its efforts to address the impacts of slavery, and will recommend ways to reconcile past actions. This move places Boston among other cities and states, such as Providence and Evanston, which are exploring reparations to address the racial wealth gap and the legacies of racism.

One in five U.S. adults received an unexpected medical bill in 2022 despite the federal ban on surprise medical billing that took effect on January 1. The No Surprises Act has prevented over 2 million potential surprise bills, but many Americans still face unexpected charges, particularly for in-network lab work sent to out-of-network labs or procedures not covered by insurance. The law faces criticism and legal challenges, with some providers seeking delays in rule implementation. A significant portion of adults hesitated or skipped medical care due to fear of surprise bills, and many lack confidence in resolving such bills, citing distrust and confusion.

Long COVID patients in Denmark feel neglected by the healthcare system and pandemic response, despite the country's generally praised handling of COVID-19. Many patients struggle to get diagnoses and treatment, facing a lack of recognition and support. Specialized clinics exist, but the disease's nebulous nature complicates diagnosis. Research indicates a lower risk of long COVID with the Omicron variant, but patients still experience significant symptoms. The World Health Organization urges countries to take long COVID seriously due to its potential long-term impact on health and economics.

Hundreds of drones recently lit up the New York City skyline to promote the 'Candy Crush' video game, highlighting the growing trend of drone-based advertising. With nearly 867,000 drones registered in the U.S. and projections of 2.3 million by 2024, cities face both opportunities and challenges in managing this new form of advertising. While some see drones as a less disruptive alternative to traditional aerial advertising, others express concerns over local restrictions and potential negative impacts. Federal and local authorities are working to balance innovation with regulation, as the FAA and other stakeholders push for clearer rules and integration strategies.

Cities are increasingly considering neighborhood investment trusts to prevent low-income residents from being displaced by wealthy investors. These trusts allow residents to invest in local commercial properties and receive dividends. The Kresge Foundation supports such projects, and the success of Mercy Corps' model in Portland, Oregon, has inspired similar initiatives in other cities. While some investments like Nico in Los Angeles have faced sustainability challenges, others are progressing with the support of community organizations and banks. The success of these trusts depends on public policy, private investment, and community engagement.

The FDA banned Juul's vaping products in the U.S., including tobacco-flavored cartridges, due to insufficient health and safety data. A survey showed 65% of voters support the ban, with majority backing across political lines. The ban is currently on hold due to an appeals court freeze, and Juul faces a legal battle and a youth marketing case in San Francisco federal court. The survey, conducted among 2,004 registered voters, found that 56% were aware of the FDA's action against Juul.

Survey data indicates that vaccine uptake for babies and toddlers may be slow, with only 42% of U.S. parents with children under 5 expressing willingness to vaccinate their kids. Concerns over vaccine safety and development are the primary reasons for hesitancy. The Biden administration is promoting pediatric vaccinations through pediatricians and public service campaigns, but awareness remains low. The survey was conducted among 471 U.S. parents with children under 5.

State marketplace leaders are preparing for significant premium increases if Congress does not extend the federal subsidies that made Affordable Care Act (ACA) coverage more affordable during the pandemic. The enhanced subsidies, set to expire at the end of the year, have significantly reduced out-of-pocket costs for millions of Americans. States like California and Vermont are exploring ways to mitigate the impact, but face financial and operational challenges. Democratic lawmakers are pushing to extend the subsidies through budget reconciliation, but intraparty disagreements and timing issues complicate the process. The expiration of the federal public health emergency could further disrupt the marketplace, affecting Medicaid eligibility and affordable coverage options.

As the Supreme Court appears poised to overturn Roe v. Wade, voters are becoming more entrenched in their partisan views on abortion rights. A Morning Consult/Politico survey reveals that while a majority of voters believe the court will overturn the ruling, opinions on how to address abortion rights are deeply divided along party lines. Democratic voters increasingly support upholding Roe and codifying abortion rights, whereas Republicans favor leaving the decision to states and oppose federal legislation on the matter. The survey also highlights that a significant portion of anti-Roe voters support severe penalties for abortion providers and patients. The findings come as the issue gains prominence ahead of the 2022 midterm elections.

A Morning Consult/Politico survey indicates that approximately 60% of voters support the FDA's proposal to ban the sale of menthol cigarettes in the U.S. The ban aims to discourage smoking among young people and address racial disparities in smoking-related diseases. The proposal is backed by a majority of voters across political affiliations, races, and community types, with 66% of Democrats and 52% of Republicans in favor. The ban, which also includes flavored cigars but not menthol e-cigarettes, would take effect a year after the final rule is published. A study suggests that a menthol cigarette ban could lead to an additional 1.3 million smokers quitting, based on outcomes from a similar rule in Canada.

A federal judge in Florida struck down the Biden administration's mask mandate for transportation, despite a Morning Consult/Politico survey showing that most voters supported extending it through early May. The survey revealed a partisan divide, with Democrats largely in favor and Republicans mostly opposed. The CDC had extended the mandate due to a rise in COVID-19 cases, but the judge's ruling led to the immediate lifting of mask mandates by several airlines and ride-sharing apps. The future of mask mandates remains uncertain, with local decisions becoming more prominent.

Most registered voters support federal funding for COVID-19 vaccinations in the U.S. and overseas, with significant backing from Democrats and moderate support from Republicans. A bipartisan deal for $10 billion in pandemic response funding is stalled in Congress, with global vaccination support removed from the package. The White House warns of insufficient funds for a fourth dose for all Americans without additional funding. The global vaccine initiative COVAX has raised $4.8 billion, nearing its target, but faces distribution challenges. A recent survey of 2,005 registered voters highlights these findings.

In 2021, private equity deals involving health care providers surged to over 1,000, a 60% increase from 2019, driven by investments in hospitals, physician practices, and nursing homes. The Biden administration is signaling a crackdown on private equity in long-term care, citing concerns over patient outcomes and financial practices. Critics argue that private equity's focus on cost-cutting and quick returns conflicts with health care's mission, while proponents highlight the benefits of capital infusion and operational efficiency. The administration plans to implement stricter regulations and transparency measures. Despite a slowdown in early 2022 due to economic factors, private equity interest in health care, particularly in health tech and value-based care, is expected to rebound.

A Morning Consult survey revealed that 25% of regular adult vapers started during the pandemic, with many also smoking tobacco. Despite a decrease in overall vaping rates, including among teenagers, public perception equates the harm of e-cigarettes with traditional cigarettes. The FDA has increased enforcement on vape makers, and Congress closed a loophole allowing synthetic nicotine to bypass regulation. The public supports stricter FDA regulation on flavored e-cigarette products, and Juul Labs Inc. faces trials for marketing to children. Experts emphasize the need for vigilant FDA enforcement to prevent e-cigarette manufacturers from targeting youth.

A Morning Consult survey reveals varying levels of trust in institutions and difficulties in discussing COVID-19 across 18 countries, highlighting challenges in global health information flow and pandemic response. The survey indicates a global information overload, with adults feeling frustrated and worried, yet also hopeful and confident. Trust in institutions varies, with India, Singapore, and China showing the most trust, while Argentina, Colombia, and Italy are the most mistrustful. The lack of trust enables misinformation to spread, as seen with Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo's controversial COVID-19 statements. Despite this, there is broad support for public health measures, though the pandemic remains a polarizing issue. Dr. Georges Benjamin emphasizes the need for effective public health messaging, while the survey shows divided expectations on when the pandemic will cease affecting daily life. The article warns of imminent future global health threats and the urgency to prepare.

Nearly 16 million people risk losing Medicaid coverage post-COVID-19 public health emergency, with estimates of coverage loss increasing the longer the emergency continues. The federal government's extra funding to state Medicaid programs, contingent on not cutting off beneficiaries during the emergency, has led to a 19.1 percent enrollment surge. The end of the emergency could see federal and state spending on acute care for nonelderly patients reach $583 billion in 2023. Health care groups are seeking time to manage the redetermination process, with the Biden administration offering 14 months post-emergency. Coverage alternatives like Obamacare plans may become unaffordable if premium subsidies expire at the end of 2022. The situation is complicated by varying state capacities and the uncertain trajectory of the pandemic.

The White House's updated COVID-19 strategic plan, requiring congressional funding, aims to transition from crisis management to long-term pandemic control. Key measures include antiviral pills at pharmacies, improved building ventilation, and enhanced data systems for tracking variants. A Morning Consult/Politico survey indicates strong voter support, particularly among Democrats, while Republicans show more skepticism. The plan also emphasizes global vaccine distribution and combating misinformation. Congressional approval of $15 billion in additional aid is anticipated to support these initiatives.

Health care workers in the United States are more optimistic that the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic is behind us, as revealed by a Morning Consult/Axios survey. They feel prepared for potential future surges, though capacity remains a concern. The industry has received high approval from within for handling the pandemic, while the federal government's response has mixed reviews, with the Biden administration faring better than the Trump administration. There is a call for greater emphasis on clinician safety and support, acknowledging that COVID-19 may persist for some time.

A recent poll shows that 52% of voters support a proposal to allow the WTO to pause COVID-19 vaccine patent protections, with significant backing from Democratic voters (66%) and a notable increase in support among Republicans (41%). The proposal, initiated by India and South Africa, aims to improve global vaccine access. President Joe Biden and Democratic lawmakers advocate for the waiver, while Republican lawmakers and the U.S. drug lobby oppose it, arguing it won't solve production and distribution issues. The WTO aims to decide on the waiver by the end of February.

The American electorate strongly supports the Biden administration's initiatives to distribute free at-home COVID-19 tests and N95 masks, according to a Morning Consult/Politico poll. The approval spans across party lines, with a majority of both Democrats and Republicans in favor. The distribution of tests and masks comes as the omicron variant surge begins to wane and as President Joe Biden's net approval for his pandemic response shows slight improvement from a previous low. The CDC has endorsed N95 masks for better protection, and the FTC is investigating reports of COVID-19 test price gouging.

Ramona Sequeira, incoming chair of the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) and president of Takeda Pharmaceutical's U.S. business, anticipates significant changes in the pharmaceutical industry in 2022 amid ongoing drug pricing reforms. Sequeira emphasizes the need to balance innovation with common-sense reforms to lower patient costs and rebuild trust in the industry. Key issues include Medicare Part D restructuring, opposition to Medicare negotiating drug prices, and efforts to increase diversity in clinical trials. The industry faces a complex landscape of regulatory changes and patient access challenges, with a focus on collaboration and patient-centric approaches.

Following the Supreme Court's decision to block the Biden administration's vaccine-or-test requirement for large private businesses, a Morning Consult poll reveals that over half of U.S. adults support employer vaccine mandates. The poll highlights the political divide, with vaccinated individuals and Democrats more likely to support mandates compared to unvaccinated individuals and Republicans. The decision has led companies to navigate conflicting state and local rules, with some pausing their mandates while others, like New York City, implement their own. The findings underscore the ongoing debate and politicization surrounding COVID-19 vaccination efforts.

Approximately half of U.S. adults support the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's decision to reduce the COVID-19 isolation period from 10 to 5 days for asymptomatic or improving individuals, with the public divided on its impact on healthcare workers and public health. The CDC faced backlash and updated its guidance to suggest optional rapid testing around the five-day mark without making it mandatory. The survey, conducted on January 5, 2022, with 2,200 U.S. adults, indicates that 53% approve of the change, with disparities among different demographics, and 51% believe the change aims to boost the economy rather than protect public health.

Public concern over the omicron variant in the United States may have peaked, with a notable decline among unvaccinated adults. While 68% of adults remain concerned, the percentage of unvaccinated individuals worried about omicron dropped from 55% to 44% in December. The decline in concern is attributed to reports suggesting that omicron causes milder symptoms. The findings come amid a significant surge in COVID-19 cases, with hospitals overwhelmed by new infections. The World Health Organization cautions that more research is needed to fully understand the variant's impact.

The FDA is considering authorizing the first antiviral pills for COVID-19, which could significantly impact the pandemic. Polling indicates that while most vaccinated adults would take the medication, a significant portion of unvaccinated adults remain hesitant. The Biden administration has already secured millions of courses of Pfizer's antiviral treatment Paxlovid, and Merck's molnupiravir is also under review. Despite the potential benefits, there are concerns about accessibility and the effectiveness of these treatments. Public awareness of these developments remains limited.

The article discusses the potential impact of extending postpartum Medicaid coverage from 60 days to a full year, highlighting its benefits for maternal health outcomes, reducing racial disparities, and providing continuous care for new mothers. It includes data on maternal morbidity and healthcare costs, and features perspectives from various stakeholders, including healthcare providers, insurers, and policy analysts. The policy is supported by senior Biden administration officials and could lead to significant changes in how maternal healthcare is delivered and funded in the U.S.

The White House is defending the Biden administration's COVID-19 vaccine mandate for large employers amid mounting legal challenges. A Morning Consult/Politico poll reveals mixed public opinion on the mandate's timeline, with a third of voters agreeing with the January 4 deadline. While 55% of voters support the mandate or weekly testing for private employers, 40% oppose it. The mandate is seen by health officials as crucial for curbing COVID-19 spread and saving lives, though opinions are divided along party lines. The poll was conducted among 1,998 registered voters with a margin of error of 2 percentage points.

Voters across political parties prioritize adding dental and vision benefits to Medicare, which was cut from the latest White House framework. Sen. Bernie Sanders is working to reintroduce these benefits. Other top priorities include funding for home health care and Medicare drug price negotiation. Congressional Democrats are negotiating a compromise on Medicare price negotiation, which is crucial for many voters. A Medicaid measure to offer subsidized health insurance in non-expansion states is also popular. Extending Affordable Care Act premium tax credits ranks lowest among health measures. The poll was conducted among 1,996 registered voters with a margin of error of 2 percentage points.

Nearly half of American parents are ready to vaccinate their children under 12 against COVID-19 as soon as they become eligible, according to a Morning Consult survey. The survey highlights varying attitudes among parents, with fathers, Republicans, and those in rural areas showing different levels of willingness. Federal officials are preparing to distribute up to 20 million doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for children aged 5 to 11, potentially starting in early November. The rollout's success will depend on parental willingness and school mandates, with California already requiring vaccinations for K-12 students once fully approved.

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to challenge the long-term care industry, with significant impacts on both residents and workers. Despite a decrease in deaths due to vaccinations, the sector faces a severe workforce shortage, exacerbated by high turnover rates and low wages. Lawmakers and advocates are pushing for reforms, including increased oversight and substantial federal investment in home- and community-based care. However, the proposed funding is under debate, and the industry remains strained, with many facilities financially struggling and some closing. The situation underscores the urgent need for systemic changes to support both care recipients and workers.

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated staffing shortages in U.S. hospitals, with nearly 1 in 5 healthcare workers quitting their jobs. Factors driving this exodus include burnout, insufficient pay, and safety concerns. The situation has led to increased workloads and subpar patient care. Some healthcare workers are turning to higher-paying travel nursing roles. Despite the challenges, 77% of healthcare workers approve of their employers' handling of the pandemic, though issues like poor communication and inadequate protective equipment persist.

The Biden administration is intensifying antitrust scrutiny across various sectors, including health care, with a focus on hospital price transparency and merger scrutiny. Key officials like Lina Khan and Tim Wu are expected to enforce stricter guidelines. The Sutter Health antitrust settlement and other cases signal increased caution for health systems. The American Hospital Association is advocating for more scrutiny of health insurance companies. Hospital mergers have slowed, but revenue remains stable. The FTC is also examining vertical mergers, such as Illumina's acquisition of Grail. Analysts are divided on the administration's ability to curb such deals effectively.

Americans are divided along party lines regarding the White House's COVID-19 vaccination mandates, with 58% supporting the measures. The mandates, which affect health care workers, federal employees, contractors, and private-sector workers, have received criticism from Republican officials who argue they overstep legal authority. Polling shows significant partisan gaps, with Democrats largely in favor and Republicans mostly opposed. The survey also indicates broad support for other vaccination-related measures, though opinions are heavily influenced by political affiliation. The survey was conducted among 2,200 U.S. adults with a margin of error of 2 percentage points.

Health care workers, having faced grueling conditions during the pandemic, advise new trainees to only join the field if they are fully committed. Despite challenges, there is optimism, with an increase in medical school applications and a Morning Consult poll showing 3 in 5 health care workers positive about the industry's future. The poll highlights a need for changes in training and hiring practices, with calls for more diversity in leadership. Medical student Hannah Hendrix emphasizes the importance of addressing the physician shortage and aligning the supply and demand for specialties. The federal government plans to invest in nursing and medical faculty, and provide financial support for clinicians in underserved areas.

The delta variant is causing a significant surge in COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths in the United States, with 82 percent of adults expressing concern. Vaccinated individuals are more worried about the variant than the unvaccinated, with 89 percent of vaccinated adults expressing concern compared to 67 percent of unvaccinated adults. Dr. L.J Tan from the Immunization Action Coalition highlights the importance of translating this concern into increased vaccination rates. Data shows a recent uptick in vaccinations in states with lower immunization rates, such as Louisiana and Florida. The Biden administration's goal of having 70 percent of U.S. adults at least partially vaccinated remains unmet in many areas.

The U.S. public health workforce faces a significant shortage, with an estimated deficit of 80,000 workers. In response, the Biden administration has allocated $400 million to a new partnership between AmeriCorps and the CDC to recruit and train up to 5,000 individuals for state and local public health departments. The initiative aims to address urgent needs in underrepresented communities and create high-quality job opportunities. Karen Dahl, AmeriCorps’ COVID-19 adviser, emphasizes the importance of this program in shaping the future public health workforce and filling critical gaps exacerbated by chronic underfunding.