Michigan Public Health News Center

Federal budget cuts, policy changes could leave deep scars on Americans' health

Lancet-published policy analysis outlines One Big Beautiful Bill's impacts on Americans' health as they face new rules on Medicare, Medicaid, SNAP and more

Changes to federal spending and policies under the second Trump administration are already affecting Americans' health and could worsen existing health disparities, strain public health infrastructure and have lasting consequences for years to come, according to new research led by the University of Michigan.

Plans with cheaper premiums are risky business for Americans seeking lower healthcare costs

As ACA premiums climb, cheaper options like short-term plans, healthcare sharing ministries and farm bureau coverage can carry hidden risks. U-M health economists Thomas Buchmueller and Helen Levy explain what to watch for.

Michigan Public Health professor Michael Shepherd discusses rural healthcare on university podcast

Shepherd, an assistant professor of health management and policy, joins the Michigan Minds podcast to discuss how healthcare has become one of voters' top priorities, especially in rural America, where hospital closures, Medicaid changes and partisan identity intersect.

New research gauges community immunity to valley fever as fungal infection cases increase

First such study in decades strengthens public health response, informs vaccine design

University of Michigan researchers will determine how much of the population still lacks immunity to valley fever, a fungal infection caused by inhalation of spores that can be carried through the air in the dust of dry soils.

On the Heights: October 2026

Stay informed with the latest from the University of Michigan School of Public Health community in our monthly digest. Faculty expertise in action, new research, policy advocacy, and community engagement highlight our continued commitment to advancing public health and creating positive change.

Policy impact snapshot: Improving health & well-being through housing & urban policy

U-M researcher Roshanak Mehdipanah studies how housing costs and neighborhood inequality affect people's health. Her work has helped improve housing programs in Detroit and inform housing policy across Michigan.