Patty Wight
News Reporter and HostPatty is a graduate of the University of Vermont and a multiple award-winning reporter for Maine Public Radio. Her specialty is health coverage: from policy stories to patient stories, physical health to mental health and anything in between. Patty joined Maine Public Radio in 2012 after producing stories as a freelancer for NPR programs such as Morning Edition and All Things Considered. She got hooked on radio at the Salt Institute for Documentary Studies in Portland, Maine, and hasn’t looked back ever since.
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Anthem says it suggested mediation last week and is pleased Northern Light is in agreement. -
U.S. District court judge denies Maine Family Planning's request to restore federal Medicaid fundingThe budget reconciliation bill signed into law by President Trump this summer blocked health providers who offer abortions from participating in the Medicaid program, known locally as MaineCare. -
Four wild birds in Kennebec, Sagadahoc, and York counties have also tested positive this year for West Nile. -
Summertime in Maine can bring welcome sunshine and warmth. But under certain conditions, hot and humid weather can cause problems for the body: anything from minor muscle cramps and skin rashes to more serious issues like dizziness, vomiting, and seizures. -
A concern about chemicals in sunscreen has led some people to stop using it in favor of alternatives such as beef tallow or to just gradually expose skin. -
The news comes after Northern Light Health announced last week that it was ending contract negotiations with Anthem. Northern Light will soon be out of network for Anthem patients unless they can agree on a contract.
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The organization recommends that children between six months and two years old receive the Covid vaccine. -
In a letter to the insurance company, Northern Light accuses Anthem of using delay tactics rather than engaging in constructive discussions. -
Nearly half of the patients who seek non-abortion care at Maine Family Planning are covered by Medicaid, known locally as MaineCare. -
Even though Maine is known as a cold weather state, in recent years, hundreds of people have shown up in emergency rooms for heat-related illness. To offer relief, cooling centers are opening at libraries, fire stations, and community centers.
