Retail clinics popping up in many U.S. airports

Pharmacies and walk-in health clinics are opening at more airports across the country, according to a report in USA Today. Click here.

Report: Hospital capacity behind states’ health care cost variation

A Dartmouth Medical School study of end-of-life care costs for Medicare patients found a wide variation among the states, attributed primarily to patients getting more hospital care — but not necessarily better care — in areas with a higher supply of hospital beds. The report shows the lack of comprehensive standards for measuring health care quality and determining when and how to provide medical care. Click here.

Philadelphia schools’ weight-loss initiative shows results

Five Philadelphia elementary schools that started initiatives to educate children about nutrition and limit unhealthy food options have shown remarkable results. Since their two-year effort began, only 7 percent of their students were overweight, less than half the 15 percent found in other schools. Click here.

Congress funds NIH research on brain injury, infant screening

The House of Representatives and the Senate have passed a bill that authorizes funding for NIH programs through fiscal year 2011 and mandates the CDC to undertake a study on countrywide trends in the area of traumatic brain injury. The House also sanctioned legislation allotting $45 million this year to help boost newborn screening programs in all states. Click here.