It might be arduous to recollect now, however 2022 started with the largest surge but within the COVID-19 pandemic — a tsunami of infections with the omicron variant that far surpassed any earlier waves. That variant turned out to be, fortunately, much less virulent and lethal than earlier strains. However then got here the omicron subvariants — BA2, BA4, BA5 — that appeared to contaminate even those that had averted an infection for 2 lengthy years. Hospitals stuffed up once more, and never solely with COVID-19 sufferers; others had RSV, flu, and mpox. AAMCNews coated all of those developments, but additionally different challenges going through educational medication: a rising mistrust of science, staffing shortages, rising violence towards well being care staff, and extra. Beneath, we’ve got compiled a listing of our high 10 hottest tales of 2022. In case you haven’t already, join our free publication to get tales like these delivered straight to your inbox each week.
Why accomplish that many Individuals mistrust science?
Medical science faces a credibility disaster that threatens its capability to guard individuals’s well being. Scientists want to know the forces sowing suspicion about their work.
How the repeal of Roe v. Wade will have an effect on coaching in abortion and reproductive well being
The U.S. Supreme Courtroom choice will make it tougher for future OB-GYNs and different suppliers to study to carry out abortions. However it would have an effect on different types of medical coaching, too, together with miscarriage administration, counseling sufferers, and emergency care.
Threats towards well being care staff are rising. Right here’s how hospitals are defending their staffs
Figuring out safety dangers, calling in de-escalation groups, and coaching employees in violence prevention are amongst methods hospitals are using to maintain staff and sufferers protected.
A rising psychiatrist scarcity and an infinite demand for psychological well being providers
The U.S. had too few psychiatrists even earlier than COVID-19 elevated charges of hysteria and melancholy. From partnering with main care suppliers to modern digital instruments, leaders are stepping up with a variety of inventive options.
1000’s of medical residents are unionizing. Right here’s what meaning for medical doctors, hospitals, and the sufferers they serve
Newly minted physicians typically bemoan lengthy hours and comparatively low wages. Now, a rising quantity are unionizing, which these concerned say brings advantages — but additionally drawbacks.
Omicron and the vaccines: Your questions answered
Consultants weigh in on how the vaccines are holding up towards the extremely contagious variant.
BA2, boosters, and the way forward for COVID-19 vaccination
Even because the BA.2 omicron subvariant spreads quickly throughout the nation, hospitalizations and deaths stay low. Right here’s what you should know as the USA enters a brand new section of the pandemic.
What to learn about BA.5, Paxlovid, and new vaccines popping out this fall
Most individuals now have immunity towards extreme illness and demise as a consequence of COVID-19, however consultants hope new vaccines will curb infections and forestall additional mutations.
What’s gender-affirming care? Your questions answered
As states transfer to limit sure remedies for transgender youth, consultants clarify the numerous sorts of care, the necessity for them, and their affect.
How pig organs made their method into people: The gradual advance to transplant kidneys and hearts
After 20-plus years of quiet analysis, medical doctors lately made historical past with 4 xenotransplants. Right here is how they progressed and what they hope to attain subsequent.