· 7 issues
The December 1972 issue of HealthPAC Bulletin focuses on the transformative health care changes in China since the 1949 revolution, emphasizing the integration of traditional medicine and mass participation in health initiatives. Mark Selden's article critiques Western media's narrow focus on technological advancements while neglecting the socio-political context that enabled these changes. The issue highlights China's successes in eradicating diseases like syphilis and opium addiction through community-driven campaigns, contrasting this with the U.S. health system's focus on individual diseases. It argues for the necessity of broader social reforms to achieve meaningful health care improvements.
The November-December 1981 issue of HealthPAC Bulletin focuses on the privatization of public hospitals and the implications of for-profit healthcare systems. It critiques the increasing influence of private entities in healthcare, highlighting the need for accountability and equitable access to services. Notable articles discuss the role of voluntary hospitals and the impact of the Reagan administration's policies on health and safety regulations, particularly through OSHA's declining enforcement. The issue also touches on international health perspectives, including a letter advocating for coverage of Nicaragua's healthcare improvements post-revolution.
The January-February 1983 issue of HealthPAC Bulletin highlights the ongoing challenges in healthcare policy, particularly focusing on the implications of the new Medicare reimbursement system based on Diagnostic Related Groups (DRGs). The issue features a critical examination of the drug policies in Bangladesh, emphasizing the influence of multinational pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer on local healthcare decisions. Notable articles discuss the financial misconduct of healthcare institutions, as reported by the General Accounting Office, revealing systemic fraud in Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements. The issue also includes a letter from Erica Gollub addressing the complexities of drug pricing and availability in Bangladesh, underscoring the tension between corporate interests and public health needs.
The October-November 1983 issue of HealthPAC Bulletin focuses on the political implications of biotechnology, highlighting the intersection of health policy and technological advancements. Notable articles discuss the impact of the Ethiopian drought on health care in the Horn of Africa, particularly in Eritrea, where local health workers are addressing malnutrition and sanitation amidst ongoing conflict. The issue also touches on the challenges faced by U.S. workers, particularly women, in balancing employment and childcare, emphasizing the need for comprehensive state support. Additionally, there is commentary on the economic disparities in health insurance options, particularly regarding Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs).
This special double issue of HealthPAC Bulletin focuses on health care in revolutionary contexts, particularly in Nicaragua, Grenada, and El Salvador. It features a poignant letter from a physician working in Nicaragua, detailing the dire conditions in hospitals, including shortages of essential medical supplies and the impact of U.S. military actions on health care. The issue emphasizes the achievements of health care systems in these countries despite external pressures and advocates for solidarity and action from American citizens to support these revolutionary efforts. The editor's letter calls for awareness and action against U.S. interventions that threaten health care advancements in these nations.
The Fall 1988 issue of HealthPAC Bulletin highlights the significant contract victory for New York City's home care workers, who have long faced exploitation and low wages. The article by Barbara Caress details the struggles and achievements of Local 1199 and District Council 1707 in advocating for better pay and working conditions for these predominantly minority and female workers. Additionally, the issue features discussions on the broader implications of nursing care in an uncaring society, emphasizing the need for democratizing healthcare management to ensure accountability and responsiveness to community needs. The issue also touches on international health issues, including the impact of apartheid in South Africa.
This special issue of HealthPAC Bulletin focuses on the medical rights abuses occurring in the West Bank and Gaza Strip amid the ongoing intifada. It features contributions from Physicians for Human Rights, including Jonathan Fine, who discusses the organization's monitoring of health consequences due to military actions. The issue highlights the cycle of violence and its impact on health care access, with articles detailing the efforts of both Israeli and Palestinian physicians to address these abuses. Additionally, it provides context on the historical roots of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the challenges faced by health care workers under occupation.