Health stories in Memphis

Dr. Axel Ojeda has opened NuvaCare Clinic in Cordova to address the shortage of Spanish-speaking medical providers in Tennessee. The clinic aims to better serve the local Hispanic community, which has been underserved in healthcare access.

Federal regulators are set to implement stricter evaluations for organ procurement organizations, aiming to shut down substandard groups by early next year. This move comes as over 109,000 people await organ transplants nationwide, with many organizations facing scrutiny for their practices.

A year after declaring infant mortality a public health emergency, Mississippi has launched initiatives to address rising rates. Despite some progress, officials acknowledge the need for greater transparency and solutions.

A recent report reveals that the percentage of working-age adults without health insurance has increased to 11.2%, up from 8.9% in 2024. This rise is attributed to the expiration of federal subsidies for Obamacare, leaving many unable to afford coverage.

Flu activity is rising in the Mid-South, prompting health experts to recommend the 2026 flu shot. This year's vaccine targets both H1N1 and H3N2 strains, offering better protection against prevalent viruses.

The University of Mississippi Medical Center has begun construction on a new cancer center aimed at improving patient outcomes in a state with high cancer mortality rates. The facility will support the goal of achieving National Cancer Institute designation, providing access to advanced clinical trials and treatments.

Infectious disease specialists in Memphis report an early start to flu season, urging residents to get vaccinated. This year's flu shot targets both the H1N1 and H3N2 viruses.

In response to the recent deaths of two Ole Miss students linked to kratom, Mississippi lawmakers are considering stricter regulations on synthetic kratom products. The discussions include potential bans and temporary removal of harmful substances from stores.

Dr. Dan Edney, Mississippi State Health Officer, has been named president of the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials. He aims to focus on maternal and infant health, rural health, and enhancing public health collaboration during his one-year term.

A recent KFF survey reveals that the cost of employer-sponsored health insurance plans has increased by 5% this year, with individual plans averaging $9,804 and family plans at $28,303. The rise in costs is raising concerns among voters about healthcare affordability.

A Nashville judge has temporarily halted the Tennessee health department's requirement for immigration status checks in the Ryan White HIV/AIDS program. This decision comes after a lawsuit was filed by Nashville CARES, arguing that such checks are not mandated by federal law.

Former Vice President Kamala D. Harris will visit Clarksdale, Mississippi, for a healthcare roundtable with D.A. Scott Colom. The event aims to address rural healthcare issues by gathering insights from healthcare providers, patients, and community members.

Governor Tate Reeves has announced $32 million in federal funding aimed at developing the healthcare workforce and improving psychiatric services in Mississippi. The funding will support various programs to recruit and train healthcare professionals, as well as establish therapeutic units in emergency departments.

Mississippi health officials are considering cuts to clinical services at county health departments due to ongoing funding issues. The state health department's request for additional funding was denied, prompting a restructuring of services.

The U.S. Supreme Court has denied a request from the Trump administration to end gender-affirming healthcare for transgender individuals in federal prisons. This ruling allows a lower court's decision to remain in effect, ensuring continued access to necessary medical care for transgender inmates.

Governor Tate Reeves has announced 60 awards totaling over $32.6 million through the Mississippi Rural Health Transformation Program. This funding aims to modernize healthcare in rural communities and improve access to mental health services.

A new report reveals that 10 states, including Arkansas and Mississippi, have no birth centers, which are linked to better health outcomes for low-risk pregnancies. The report highlights the need for policy changes to increase access to these facilities, particularly for marginalized communities.

The DeSoto County Board of Supervisors is considering an ordinance to ban the sale of kratom in unincorporated areas. This decision reflects increasing governmental action against the unregulated substance due to health concerns.

Nashville CARES has filed a lawsuit against the Tennessee Department of Health over new immigration verification requirements for patients in the Ryan White HIV/AIDS program. The changes, which contradict federal guidelines, could limit access to essential health services for low-income individuals living with HIV/AIDS.

The Millington VA Clinic officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 16, 2026, improving healthcare access for local veterans. Many, like U.S. Army veteran Nick Sawall, are benefiting from reduced travel times for care.

A new report highlights the absence of birth centers in Mississippi, which could enhance maternal and infant health outcomes. The state has declared a public health emergency due to rising infant deaths, particularly among Black infants, yet legislative efforts to support midwives have stalled.

Mississippi has the highest rate of Medicaid enrollees prescribed injectable birth control, raising concerns about informed consent and health risks. Many women, including teacher Marlena Jenkins, share negative experiences with limited contraceptive options.

Leighanne Soden of the West Cancer Foundation highlights ongoing disparities in breast cancer care in Memphis. Despite efforts like providing free wigs and a dedicated fitting space for post-mastectomy bras, access to essential services remains a challenge for many women.

The Happy Mexican restaurant located on Winchester Road has been closed by the Health Department. The closure reportedly took place last week.

The U.S. Veterans Affairs has inaugurated a new $10.1 million clinic in Millington, designed to enhance care for veterans. Since its opening on June 1, the facility has already served over 3,500 veterans.

Mississippi lawmakers held a hearing on the dire state of healthcare in prisons, hearing testimonies of amputations and treatment delays. The absence of the Mississippi Department of Corrections raised further concerns about accountability and reform efforts.

The Shelby County Health Department held its annual HIV summit to promote the expansion of testing and prevention programs. The region, which includes parts of Arkansas and Mississippi, has one of the highest rates of HIV in the nation.

The Happy Mexican restaurant located on Winchester has been closed by the Shelby County Health Department due to multiple health violations. Signs on the restaurant's doors indicate that it is temporarily closed until further notice.

A man was found unresponsive during a traffic stop on October 12, with the Memphis Safe Task Force confirming that long-term heart issues were the cause of death. This incident raises concerns about public safety and health during police interactions.

Dr. LouAnn Woodward, the first woman to lead the University of Mississippi Medical Center, has announced her retirement effective June 2024. She has served as vice chancellor for health affairs and dean of the School of Medicine since 2015.