Stay informed about health news and updates in Visalia, CA.
California ranks fifth in the nation for cocaine use, with approximately 2.5% of its adult population having used the drug in the past year. The study, conducted by Addiction Treatment Magazine, highlights the ongoing public health concerns related to cocaine addiction, particularly among younger adults. Colorado leads the nation with the highest rate of cocaine use at 3.06%.
A new walk-in mammogram clinic named Mammogram Now has opened inside the Hanford Walmart, providing easy access to breast cancer screenings for women in the community. Managed by Radnet, the clinic aims to enhance accessibility and convenience for underserved populations, especially with Breast Cancer Awareness Month approaching.
California households can soon order free COVID-19 test kits starting at the end of September, as the state prepares for a potential winter surge in infections. The tests, which can detect current variants and provide results in under 30 minutes, are part of a nationwide initiative to increase access to testing. Residents can order their kits through COVIDTests.gov.
Two men were stabbed outside the Visalia Rescue Mission, with one victim in critical condition. The suspect, 60-year-old Claudio Banderas, was arrested at the scene and will face charges of attempted murder and assault with a deadly weapon. All parties involved were taken to Kaweah Health for treatment.
A new COVID-19 variant known as XEC is spreading rapidly across California and other countries, with early observations indicating it could become a dominant strain. Although California has seen a decrease in COVID-19 cases recently, health officials are monitoring the situation closely as flu season approaches.
A 39-year-old man was hospitalized after a solo car crash on Highway 99 in Tulare County, California, early Saturday morning. The California Highway Patrol reported that the vehicle overturned and landed on its roof, with alcohol potentially being a contributing factor. The man was airlifted to Kaweah Health Medical Center with major injuries.
Kaweah Health has responded to the announcement from Visalia OB-GYN Medical Associates that they will cease providing obstetric services starting December 20. The decision is attributed to a shortage of physicians, prompting Kaweah Health to reaffirm its commitment to offering comprehensive OB-GYN care in the community.
Health officials in Los Angeles County have reported two human cases of raccoon roundworm, a rare but serious parasite that can cause severe brain, spinal cord, and eye damage. While the risk to the general public remains low, officials emphasize the importance of taking precautions to prevent infection, especially for young children.
California's legislation includes eight consumer protection bills aimed at improving healthcare access and affordability, including oversight on pharmacy benefits managers. Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara is advocating for Governor Gavin Newsom to sign these bills, which address various public safety and healthcare issues. The proposals reflect a significant effort to enhance consumer protections in the state.