Kara Gavin
Research and Policy Media Relations Manager
Gavin draws on more than 25 years of experience in communicating about science, medicine and health policy. She focuses mainly on the health services research done by members of the U-M Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, who work to understand and improve the safety, quality, equity and affordability of health care. As part of the Michigan Medicine communication team, she has lead responsibility for primary care and mental health topics. Contact: [email protected]; Twitter: @Karag
News Release
Researchers launch website on firearm deaths & injuries among children to accelerate knowledge & prevention
Nearly 28,000 American children and teens have died because of firearms in the past decade – second only to the 44,800 who died in motor vehicle collisions.
Health Lab
Researchers Launch Website on Firearm Deaths and Injuries Among Children
New childfirearmsafety.org site offers free access to data, designed to accelerate prevention
Health Lab
Patients Use Only a Fraction of Opioids Given After Surgery — But Prescription Size Affects Use
First large study of surgical opioid prescribing and patient usage shows the potential for reduced amounts and the importance of safe disposal of unused pills
Health Lab
As Bedsore Prevention Efforts Lag, Experts Offer Advice
The management of hospital-acquired pressure ulcers varies greatly, according to a new study. Researchers offer three key takeaways.
Health Lab
Cannabis On The Ballot: What Researchers Think You Should Know
With voters in several states asked to decide about recreational and medical marijuana, a quick look at the state of knowledge about the drug and its derivatives
Health Lab
Nearly Half of Women Over 50 Experience Incontinence, but Most Haven’t Talked to a Doctor
Urine leakage can get in the way of life and exercise; results point to potential importance of routine screening
Health Lab
Need Health Insurance in 2019? Now’s the Time to Act
Whether you buy healthcare thru your employer or the ACA marketplace, here are 7 things to know before the 2018 health insurance open enrollment period starts.
News Release
Painkillers and other drugs cluttering your medicine cabinet? Get rid of them safely at Michigan-wide drug take back event Oct. 27
They’re hiding in the backs of medicine cabinets across Michigan: drugs that no one needs, and that could pose a risk to children, teens, adults and the environment.
Health Lab
Study: Risky Sedative Prescriptions for Older Adults Vary Widely
Benzodiazepine prescribing is most intense in the South and in economically disadvantaged counties. It’s also a more common among older male primary care physicians.
Health Lab
Study Uncovers Disparities in Life-Threatening Birth Experiences
A review of data from millions of U.S. births finds higher rates of dangerous delivery-related conditions in new mothers of color and those with certain underlying health conditions.
Health Lab
Older Adults Have High Interest in Genetic Testing — and Some Reservations
More than 1 in 10 people ages 50 to 64 have had genetic tests ordered by a doctor or ordered them directly, a new survey finds. Others say they’re interested, but many have concerns.
Health Lab
Full, but Still Feasting: How the Urge to Eat Overpowers the Signal to Stop
Two tiny groups of brain cells, right next to each other, play a key role in driving feeding – and stopping. The brain’s own opioid system also gets involved
Health Lab
How Medicaid Expansion Gave Enrollees a Major Financial Boost
Health care coverage for low-income patients produces fiscal benefits that include lower unpaid debts, fewer bankruptcies and higher credit scores.
Health Lab
Why Aren't More STD Patients Getting This Proven Treatment?
Expedited partner therapy is a federally recommended treatment approach for STDs but several barriers prevent antibiotics from being administered quickly. Learn more.
Health Lab
1 in 4 Older Patients Stay on Risky Sedative Too Long
Benzodiazepines pose special risks to older adults. New research finds many of those who start taking them aren’t stopping.
