health

A close-up view of vacutainers of blood samples are displayed on a holder.

Commentary

California’s care for sickle cell patients finally works. We can’t abandon it now

The 12 clinics serving sickle cell patients reduced ER visits and hospital stays, saving CA taxpayers money. But a $15 million grant for the program has ended.

By Mary E. Brown • March 27, 2026

The entrance of a dark beige building with a blue sign that reads "Central Valley Regional Center" on the top.

Health

‘What will happen when I’m gone?’: Parents of people with disabilities push to expand services

In California, a person’s disability must begin before age 18 to qualify for regional center services. Parent advocates say that leaves behind people whose disability started in early adult years, when their brains were still developing.

By

Ana B. Ibarra

• February 24, 2026

Two people walk arm in arm through a room with chairs and tables where several others sit together, with framed documents on the wall and windows along one side.

Mental Health

How an aging California is turning to senior centers for romance, community and health

No two senior centers are alike. We visited three very different venues in L.A. to learn how they're changing to meet the needs of California's aging population.

By

Joe Garcia

• February 18, 2026

A person speaks at a podium with a sign reading “Delivering for Veterans,” raising one hand while another person stands behind them. Flags are displayed in the background.

Digital Democracy

Newsom takes aim at veterans ‘claim sharks’ as he signs law banning fees for help with VA

Many veterans turn to private companies for help filing disability claims at the Department of Veterans Affairs and then face bills that run well into the thousands of dollars.

By

Adam Ashton

• February 10, 2026

A view of a person's shoes as they walk near a blue heart spray painted onto a concrete path.

Commentary

Black men in California face higher risks and higher bills for prostate cancer

Black Californians are five times more likely than others to die of prostate cancer. Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed a bill that would have cut screening costs.

By Anissa Durham • January 30, 2026

A person, with a determined facial expression, looks to their right as they stand in front of a small tree with red flowers near an apartment building.

Commentary

San Diego journalist fighting prostate cancer warns: ‘This could happen to you, too’

Jerry McCormick’s path to recover from prostate cancer has been anything but linear. Documenting progress and setbacks helps him find purpose.

By Anissa Durham • January 30, 2026

Several people stand in front of a wall labeled “Resources,” browsing pamphlets about health and community services displayed in clear holders at a public information center.

Mental Health

Everything you need to know about how to use California’s new mental health court

Who is eligible for CARE Court? How do I file a petition? Can this program force someone into treatment? Read on to find out.

By

Marisa Kendall

• December 18, 2025

Silhouette of a person standing at a railing looking out into a bay with boats and the skyline of buildings in the background. The run is shining down, reflecting in the bay and creating shadows on the person and ships around the frame.

Homelessness

Why Newsom’s CARE Court has struggled to help homeless Californians most in need

CARE Court was supposed to be a new way to help homeless Californians in the grip of psychosis. But people are still falling through the cracks.

By

Marisa Kendall

• December 18, 2025

A view of two silhouettes of students walking through a dark hallway of a school with light shining through a doorway at the end of the hallway. One silhouette holds a lunch box and a water bottle in one hand.

Commentary

California’s schools can’t afford to cut counselors. They keep kids alive in dangerous times

With suicide and violence stalking students, counselors are often the first to notice kids in trouble. They're also among the first to lose their jobs to budget cuts.

By Ayo Banjo • December 9, 2025

Two people in white protective suits, face shields, masks, and rubber boots stand on the grassy shoulder of a rural highway, looking toward the road. A third person, dressed in scrubs and a dark sweater with tall boots, stands with their back to the camera. A large road sign juts into the foreground on the right, and a truck is partially visible on the roadside. The sky is overcast, adding a tense, somber atmosphere.

Commentary

The risk of lab experiments on animals extends to people, too

Eight lab monkeys escaped and seven were killed, showing why animal experiments should give way to better, safer testing methods.

By Emily Talkington • December 3, 2025