Shows
The NPR Politics PodcastWhy Medicaid Cuts Are In The GOP Tax BillLegislation working its way through Congress to codify President Trump's tax cuts would also make big cuts to Medicaid if it is passed. We look into what the bill proposes, and what the impacts would be. This podcast: White House correspondent Deepa Shivaram, congressional correspondent Deirdre Walsh, and health policy correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin.This podcast was produced by Bria Suggs, and edited by Casey Morell. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and...2025-05-2816 minThe NPR Politics PodcastWhy Medicaid Cuts Are In The GOP Tax BillLegislation working its way through Congress to codify President Trump's tax cuts would also make big cuts to Medicaid if it is passed. We look into what the bill proposes, and what the impacts would be. This podcast: White House correspondent Deepa Shivaram, congressional correspondent Deirdre Walsh, and health policy correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin.This podcast was produced by Bria Suggs, and edited by Casey Morell. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and...2025-05-2816 min
Short WaveAre DOGE Cuts Making America Healthy?In its first 100 days, the Trump administration — specifically, the Department of Government Efficiency — shuttered agencies and slashed budgets pertaining to foreign aid, scientific research, food safety and more. How will this impact people's health and well-being both in the U.S., and around the world? To answer that question, we're calling in our colleagues: global health correspondent Gabrielle Emmanuel and health policy reporter Selena Simmons-Duffin.(P.S. If you liked this episode, check out the breakdown of health and science policy changes we did after Trump's first 50 days — with different NPR reporters — here.)Want to hear more abo...2025-04-3013 minShort WaveAre DOGE Cuts Making America Healthy?In its first 100 days, the Trump administration — specifically, the Department of Government Efficiency — shuttered agencies and slashed budgets pertaining to foreign aid, scientific research, food safety and more. How will this impact people's health and well-being both in the U.S., and around the world? To answer that question, we're calling in our colleagues: global health correspondent Gabrielle Emmanuel and health policy reporter Selena Simmons-Duffin.(P.S. If you liked this episode, check out the breakdown of health and science policy changes we did after Trump's first 50 days — with different NPR reporters — here.)Want to hear more abo...2025-04-3013 min
Consider This from NPRFederal agencies are reeling from Trump administration cuts to governmentWhether a "chainsaw," per Elon Musk, or "scalpel," as President Trump has said — the Trump administration is making deep cuts to the federal government within its first 100 days.And Trump has appointed personal allies with little experience in government to key cabinet positions.For the civil servants working to enact the missions of these government agencies, that's often meant another word: "chaos."NPR correspondents Tom Bowman, Michele Kelemen and Selena Simmons-Duffin recap what they are hearing from federal workers at the Departments of Defense, State, and Health and Human Services.For sponsor-free ep...2025-04-2511 minConsider This from NPRFederal agencies are reeling from Trump administration cuts to governmentWhether a "chainsaw," per Elon Musk, or "scalpel," as President Trump has said — the Trump administration is making deep cuts to the federal government within its first 100 days.And Trump has appointed personal allies with little experience in government to key cabinet positions.For the civil servants working to enact the missions of these government agencies, that's often meant another word: "chaos."NPR correspondents Tom Bowman, Michele Kelemen and Selena Simmons-Duffin recap what they are hearing from federal workers at the Departments of Defense, State, and Health and Human Services.For sponsor-free ep...2025-04-2511 min
Agent Survival Guide PodcastCMS Updates to MA and Part D for CY 2026
The Friday Five for April 25, 2025:
Dr. Oz shares MAHA vision as CMS admin
CY 2026 Part D Coverage Cost Breakdown
CY 2026 Selected Drug Subsidy Cost Breakdown
Provisions Not Finalized in 2026 MA and Part D Final Rule
Impact of Non-Finalized Provisions on Agents
Dr. Oz shares MAHA vision as CMS admin:
Simmons-Duffin, Selena. “5 Things to Know as Dr. Oz Prepares to Lead Medicare and Medicaid.” NPR.Org, NPR, 3 Apr. 2025, www.npr.org/sections/shots-health-news/2025/03/25/g-s1-55766/dr-mehmet-oz-medicare-medicaid-cms-trump.
“Dr. Mehmet Oz Shares Vision for CMS.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 25 Apr. 2025, www.cms.gov/newsroom/p...2025-04-2516 min
Pick of the DayRoundup: Tariffs, HHS Cuts & Bodega CatsThe tariff plan rolled out by President Trump this week threatens to upend the global economic system. We look at the potential impacts. Then, widespread cuts at the Department of Health and Human Services threaten the agency's ability to do its many jobs. And, a look at a New York City tradition. This episode: White House correspondent Deepa Shivaram, political correspondent Susan Davis, senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro, and health policy correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin.The podcast is produced by Bria Suggs & Kelli Wessinger and edited by Casey Morell. Our executive...2025-04-1700 min
Brian Lehrer: A Daily Politics PodcastFederal Cut to Rape Prevention; What Dr. Oz Said About MedicaidLast week thousands of federal employees who work for health agencies like the CDC, NIH and FDA lost their jobs. On Today's Show:Selena Simmons-Duffin, health policy correspondent for NPR, reports on what kinds of jobs and programs were cut and where the impact will be felt.
2025-04-0820 minThe NPR Politics PodcastRoundup: Tariffs, HHS Cuts & Bodega CatsThe tariff plan rolled out by President Trump this week threatens to upend the global economic system. We look at the potential impacts. Then, widespread cuts at the Department of Health and Human Services threaten the agency's ability to do its many jobs. And, a look at a New York City tradition. This episode: White House correspondent Deepa Shivaram, political correspondent Susan Davis, senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro, and health policy correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin.The podcast is produced by Bria Suggs & Kelli Wessinger and edited by Casey Morell. Our executive...2025-04-0425 minThe NPR Politics PodcastRoundup: Tariffs, HHS Cuts & Bodega CatsThe tariff plan rolled out by President Trump this week threatens to upend the global economic system. We look at the potential impacts. Then, widespread cuts at the Department of Health and Human Services threaten the agency's ability to do its many jobs. And, a look at a New York City tradition. This episode: White House correspondent Deepa Shivaram, political correspondent Susan Davis, senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro, and health policy correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin.The podcast is produced by Bria Suggs & Kelli Wessinger and edited by Casey Morell. Our executive...2025-04-0425 min
Agent Survival Guide PodcastCMS Updates, Content Library, & More!
The Friday Five for March 28, 2025:
CMS Medicare $2 Drug List Model Cancelled
Oz Confirmed by Senate Finance Committee
CMS Withdraws Changes to MA and Part D FEMA SEP
Sarah Appears on The Seven Figures or Bust Podcast
Content Library for Insurance Agents Launches
CMS Medicare $2 Drug List Model Cancelled:
“CMS Innovation Center Announces Model Portfolio Changes to Better Protect Taxpayers and Help Americans Live Healthier Lives.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 12 Mar. 2025, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/cms-innovation-center-announces-model-portfolio-changes-better-protect-taxpayers-and-help-americans.
Bell, Allison. “Trump Administration Ends Medicare’s $2 Drug Project.” Thinkadvisor.Com, ThinkAdvisor, 14 Mar. 2025, www.thinkadvisor...2025-03-2808 min
It's Been a MinutePoppers, the FDA, & a crackdown decades in the makingPoppers, a party substance long popular with gay men, were thrust into the national spotlight last week when one producer, Double Scorpio, claimed that they halted operations due to a search and seizure by the FDA. There's been no official statement from the FDA saying this raid took place, but the suggestion of a raid — against producers of a substance disproportionately popular with the queer community — certainly raised some eyebrows. Brittany is joined by Selena Simmons-Duffin, NPR's health policy correspondent, and Alex Abad-Santos, Senior Correspondent at Vox. Together they talk about the FDA's concerns about poppers — even before our cu...2025-03-2119 min
Agent Survival Guide PodcastProjections on Nursing Home Demand in 2030
The Friday Five for February 21, 2025:
Golden Birthday Cake Oreos Return
Amazon Kindle Update
RFK Jr. Confirmed as HHS Secretary
ACA Navigator Program Funding Cut
Nursing Home Demand Projections
Golden Birthday Cake Oreos Return:
Fink, Bailey. “Oreo Is Releasing 2 New Flavors—and Making One Permanent.” Allrecipes.Com, Allrecipes, 18 Feb. 2025, www.allrecipes.com/oreo-new-cookies-february-2025-11680020.
Bivins, Kenn. “Oreo Just Brought Back a ‘GOAT’ Flavor That Has Fans ‘Beyond Excited.’” Parade.Com, Parade, 19 Feb. 2025, parade.com/food/oreo-golden-birthday-cake-returns-2025.
Robledo, Anthony. “Oreo Reveals New Flavors: Double Chocolate Cakesters and Golden Birthday Cake.” USA Today, Gannett Satellite...2025-02-2111 min
KFF Health News' 'What the Health?'Courts Try To Curb Health CutsSome of the Trump administration’s dramatic funding and policy shifts are facing major pushback for the first time — not from Congress, but from the courts. Federal judges around the country are attempting to pump the brakes on efforts to freeze government spending, shut down the U.S. Agency for International Development, eliminate access to health-related webpages and datasets, and limit grant funding provided by the National Institutes of Health. Meanwhile, Congress is off to a slow start in trying to turn President Donald Trump’s agenda into legislation, although Medicaid is clearly high on the list for potential fundin...2025-02-1339 min
The NPR Politics PodcastRFK Jr. Confirmation HearingDuring his confirmation hearing Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President Trump's pick to run Health and Human Services, defended his stances on vaccines and abortion access.This episode: White House correspondent Deepa Shivaram, political correspondent Susan Davis, and health policy correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin.The podcast is produced by Bria Suggs & Kelli Wessinger, and edited by Casey Morell. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The...2025-01-2916 minThe NPR Politics PodcastRFK Jr. Confirmation HearingDuring his confirmation hearing Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President Trump's pick to run Health and Human Services, defended his stances on vaccines and abortion access.This episode: White House correspondent Deepa Shivaram, political correspondent Susan Davis, and health policy correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin.The podcast is produced by Bria Suggs & Kelli Wessinger, and edited by Casey Morell. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The...2025-01-2916 min
Sound School PodcastGaining Access While Preserving Anonymity in Medical SettingsPatient privacy in medical settings is essential. So, how does a reporter convince a facility to let them in with a microphone and assure anonymity of the patient? Selena Simmons-Duffin has answers. She is a health policy reporter at NPR who recently reported inside a primary care facility that provides standard medical care as well as abortions. 2024-08-1316 min
Health Affairs This WeekHHS Proposes Requirements To Advance Maternal Quality Improvement EffortsSubscribe to UnitedHealthcare's Community & State newsletter.Health Affairs' Jeff Byers welcomes Senior Editor Marianne Amoss to the program to explore the state of maternal health in health care and what a recent policy proposal from CMS could do to reduce maternal mortality and advance health equity.RSVP for our upcoming Age-Friendly Health Briefing entitled "What Do Recent Nursing Home Developments Mean for Residents, Families, and the Future of Long-Term Care?" in partnership with The John A. Hartford Foundation.Become an Insider to not miss out on Stacie Dusetzina's exclusive newsletter, Policy...2024-08-0212 min
The NPR Politics PodcastAbortion Status Quo Remains For Now After Supreme Court PuntIn a unanimous decision, the justices ruled that the litigants did not have standing to bring the case. But there will more challenges to abortion access ahead, including another pending case this term. This episode: White House correspondent Asma Khalid, health policy correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin, and national justice correspondent Carrie Johnson.The podcast is produced by Jeongyoon Han, Casey Morell and Kelli Wessinger. Our intern is Bria Suggs. Our editor is Eric McDaniel. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes...2024-06-1312 minThe NPR Politics PodcastAbortion Status Quo Remains For Now After Supreme Court PuntIn a unanimous decision, the justices ruled that the litigants did not have standing to bring the case. But there will more challenges to abortion access ahead, including another pending case this term. This episode: White House correspondent Asma Khalid, health policy correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin, and national justice correspondent Carrie Johnson.The podcast is produced by Jeongyoon Han, Casey Morell and Kelli Wessinger. Our intern is Bria Suggs. Our editor is Eric McDaniel. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes...2024-06-1312 min
We Should Talk About ThatThe Sound of Women's VoicesSend me a Text Message about the show!Did you know that the six most common complaints about the sound of a women's voice are:Their voice is too highThey sound like childrenThey don't sound authoritative enoughThey have vocal fryThey use too much upspeakTheir voice is too lowFor a woman who wants to speak up publicly, it can start to feel like we are damned if we do, and damned if we don't. This week I had the opportunity to talk to Christine Adam, an international voice, accent and communication skills coach, ab...2024-04-1548 min
Short WaveThe Order Your Siblings Were Born In May Play A Role In Identity And SexualityIt's National Siblings Day! To mark the occasion, guest host Selena Simmons-Duffin is exploring a detail very personal to her: How the number of older brothers a person has can influence their sexuality. Scientific research on sexuality has a dark history, with long-lasting harmful effects on queer communities. Much of the early research has also been debunked over time. But not this "fraternal birth order effect." The fact that a person's likelihood of being gay increases with each older brother has been found all over the world – from Turkey to North America, Brazil, the Netherlands and beyond. Today, Selena gets in...2024-04-1012 min
Short WaveThe Order Your Siblings Were Born in May Play a Role in Identity and SexualityIt's National Siblings Day! To mark the occasion, guest host Selena Simmons-Duffin is exploring a detail very personal to her: How the number of older brothers a person has can influence their sexuality. Scientific research on sexuality has a dark history, with long-lasting harmful effects on queer communities. Much of the early research has also been debunked over time. But not this "fraternal birth order effect." The fact that a person's likelihood of being gay increases with each older brother has been found all over the world – from Turkey to North America, Brazil, the Netherlands and beyond. Today, Selena gets in...2024-04-1012 min
The NPR Politics PodcastSCOTUS Hears Abortion Pill ArgumentsThe Supreme Court heard a case this week about mifepristone, a drug used in medication abortions. Anti-abortion plaintiffs are suing the Food & Drug Administration, hoping to restrict access to the drug. But, justices seem skeptical of their arguments, and limits on use of the drug could have long-reaching implications beyond abortion.This podcast: White House correspondent Deepa Shivaram, political correspondent Danielle Kurtzleben, and health policy correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin.This podcast was produced by Jeongyoon Han & Kelli Wessinger, and edited by Casey Morell. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the...2024-03-2817 min
The NPR Politics PodcastSCOTUS Hears Abortion Pill ArgumentsThe Supreme Court heard a case this week about mifepristone, a drug used in medication abortions. Anti-abortion plaintiffs are suing the Food & Drug Administration, hoping to restrict access to the drug. But, justices seem skeptical of their arguments, and limits on use of the drug could have long-reaching implications beyond abortion.This podcast: White House correspondent Deepa Shivaram, political correspondent Danielle Kurtzleben, and health policy correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin.This podcast was produced by Jeongyoon Han & Kelli Wessinger, and edited by Casey Morell. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the...2024-03-2817 min
Short WaveThis Scientist Figured Out Why Your Appendix Isn't UselessBack in the day, many of us heard that the appendix is a vestigial organ — at best, a body part that lost its purpose all those many years ago. At worst, an unnecessary clinger-on to the human body that, when ruptured, could be life threatening. But what if that narrative is wrong?Heather Smith became obsessed with the appendix after hers was removed at age 12. After years of anatomy research, she's found that the appendix is not, in fact, useless. Reporter Selena Simmons-Duffin is in the host chair today to get the scoop on all things appendix. 2024-02-0212 min
Short WaveThis Scientist Figured Out Why Your Appendix Isn't UselessBack in the day, many of us heard that the appendix is a vestigial organ — at best, a body part that lost its purpose all those many years ago. At worst, an unnecessary clinger-on to the human body that, when ruptured, could be life threatening. But what if that narrative is wrong?Heather Smith became obsessed with the appendix after hers was removed at age 12. After years of anatomy research, she's found that the appendix is not, in fact, useless. Reporter Selena Simmons-Duffin is in the host chair today to get the scoop on all things appendix. 2024-02-0212 min
Consider This from NPRThe Impact of Restrictive Abortion Laws in 2023Nearly two years into Roe v. Wade being overturned, pregnant people continue to have a hard time accessing abortion and miscarriage care. This year saw the addition of new restrictive abortion laws in some states and protection of existing abortion laws in others. What does this mean for abortion care in 2024, and how might all of this affect the 2024 elections?NPR's Juana Summers digs into these questions with health policy reporter Selena Simmons-Duffin and national political correspondent Sarah McCammon.Email us at considerthis@npr.org2023-12-2114 min
Consider This from NPRThe Impact of Restrictive Abortion Laws in 2023Nearly two years into Roe v. Wade being overturned, pregnant people continue to have a hard time accessing abortion and miscarriage care. This year saw the addition of new restrictive abortion laws in some states and protection of existing abortion laws in others. What does this mean for abortion care in 2024, and how might all of this affect the 2024 elections?NPR's Juana Summers digs into these questions with health policy reporter Selena Simmons-Duffin and national political correspondent Sarah McCammon.Email us at considerthis@npr.orgLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices...2023-12-2114 min
Slate HealthWhat Next: What Texas Abortion Laws Leave UnsaidKate Cox’s fight to abort her pregnancy and save her fertility in Texas says a lot about America’s post-Roe, fractured approach to reproductive rights.Guest: Selena Simmons-Duffin, health policy correspondent at NPR.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on What Next. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to help supp...2023-12-1428 min
What Next | Daily News and AnalysisWhat Texas Abortion Laws Leave UnsaidKate Cox’s fight to abort her pregnancy and save her fertility in Texas says a lot about America’s post-Roe, fractured approach to reproductive rights.Guest: Selena Simmons-Duffin, health policy correspondent at NPR.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on What Next. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to help supp...2023-12-1428 min
Slate Crime and JusticeWhat Next: What Texas Abortion Laws Leave UnsaidKate Cox’s fight to abort her pregnancy and save her fertility in Texas says a lot about America’s post-Roe, fractured approach to reproductive rights.Guest: Selena Simmons-Duffin, health policy correspondent at NPR.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on What Next. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to help supp...2023-12-1428 min
Slate NewsWhat Next: What Texas Abortion Laws Leave UnsaidKate Cox’s fight to abort her pregnancy and save her fertility in Texas says a lot about America’s post-Roe, fractured approach to reproductive rights.Guest: Selena Simmons-Duffin, health policy correspondent at NPR.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on What Next. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to help supp...2023-12-1428 min
Slate Gender and SocietyWhat Next: What Texas Abortion Laws Leave UnsaidKate Cox’s fight to abort her pregnancy and save her fertility in Texas says a lot about America’s post-Roe, fractured approach to reproductive rights.Guest: Selena Simmons-Duffin, health policy correspondent at NPR.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on What Next. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to help supp...2023-12-1428 min
The NPR Politics PodcastTexas Woman Denied Emergency Abortion, Goes Out of StateThe Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe vs. Wade last year has made it virtually impossible to get a legal abortion in Texas. This case is the latest challenge to that state's abortion ban, and an indication that abortion access will likely also remain a political issue. This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, political correspondent Ashley Lopez, and health policy correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin.This episode was edited by Casey Morell and Erica Morrison. It was produced by Jeongyoon Han. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Unlock access to this and other bonus...2023-12-1212 min
The NPR Politics PodcastTexas Woman Denied Emergency Abortion, Goes Out of StateThe Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe vs. Wade last year has made it virtually impossible to get a legal abortion in Texas. This case is the latest challenge to that state's abortion ban, and an indication that abortion access will likely also remain a political issue. This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, political correspondent Ashley Lopez, and health policy correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin.This episode was edited by Casey Morell and Erica Morrison. It was produced by Jeongyoon Han. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Unlock access to this and other bonus...2023-12-1212 min
Short WaveSperm Can't Really Swim And Other Surprising Pregnancy FactsThere's the birds and the bees. And then there's what happens after. The process that leads to the beginning of pregnancy has a lot more twists and turns than a happenstance meeting. Today on Short Wave, NPR health reporter Selena Simmons-Duffin talks about the science of the very first week of pregnancy.Read Selena's full explainer by clicking this link. Or download and print it here. Have an incredible science story to share? Email us at shortwave@npr.org.2023-08-1414 min
Short WaveSperm Can't Really Swim And Other Surprising Pregnancy FactsThere's the birds and the bees. And then there's what happens after. The process that leads to the beginning of pregnancy has a lot more twists and turns than a happenstance meeting. Today on Short Wave, NPR health reporter Selena Simmons-Duffin talks about the science of the very first week of pregnancy.Read Selena's full explainer by clicking this link. Or download and print it here. Have an incredible science story to share? Email us at shortwave@npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy2023-08-1414 min
Consider This from NPRThe Power Of LullabiesLullabies. We all know one. Whether we were sung one as a baby or now sing one to our own children. Often, they're used to help babies gently fall asleep. But lullabies can be more than that. They can be used to soothe, to comfort, and to make children feels closer to their parents and vice versa. We hear from Tiffany Ortiz, director of early-childhood programs at Carnegie Hall, about their Lullaby Project, which pairs parents with professional musicians to write personal lullabies for their babies. Also NPR's Elissa Nadworny takes a look at a program inside a...2023-06-0214 min
Consider This from NPRThe Power Of LullabiesLullabies. We all know one. Whether we were sung one as a baby or now sing one to our own children. Often, they're used to help babies gently fall asleep. But lullabies can be more than that. They can be used to soothe, to comfort, and to make children feels closer to their parents and vice versa. We hear from Tiffany Ortiz, director of early-childhood programs at Carnegie Hall, about their Lullaby Project, which pairs parents with professional musicians to write personal lullabies for their babies. Also NPR's Elissa Nadworny takes a look at a program inside a...2023-06-0214 min
Consider This from NPRPost Roe V. Wade, A Senator Wants to Make Birth Control Access Easier — and AffordableA Food and Drug Administration advisory panel recently recommended allowing birth control pills to be sold without a prescription.While more than 100 countries currently allow access to birth control pills over the counter, the U.S. is not one of them.Washington Senator Patty Murray says it's important that the pill is easily available - but also affordable.When - and if - that day comes and the pill is available over the counter, Murray wants to require insurance companies to cover the cost, free of charge.NPR's Sarah McCammon speaks with...2023-05-2112 min
Consider This from NPRPost Roe V. Wade, A Senator Wants to Make Birth Control Access Easier — and AffordableA Food and Drug Administration advisory panel recently recommended allowing birth control pills to be sold without a prescription.While more than 100 countries currently allow access to birth control pills over the counter, the U.S. is not one of them.Washington Senator Patty Murray says it's important that the pill is easily available - but also affordable.When - and if - that day comes and the pill is available over the counter, Murray wants to require insurance companies to cover the cost, free of charge.NPR's Sarah McCammon speaks with...2023-05-2112 min
The NPR Politics PodcastKids' Leading Cause Of Death? Guns.This episode discusses gun violence and contains mentions of suicide and the sound of gun shots. If you or someone you know may be considering suicide, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 9-8-8, or the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.Nearly one-in-five Americans have seen someone injured in a shooting. Four percent of adults have been injured themselves. A recent KFF poll documents the sizable reach of a uniquely American gun violence epidemic.This episode: political correspondent Susan Davis, justice correspondent Ryan Lucas, and science correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin....2023-05-0214 min
The NPR Politics PodcastKids' Leading Cause Of Death? Guns.This episode discusses gun violence and contains mentions of suicide and the sound of gun shots. If you or someone you know may be considering suicide, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 9-8-8, or the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.Nearly one-in-five Americans have seen someone injured in a shooting. Four percent of adults have been injured themselves. A recent KFF poll documents the sizable reach of a uniquely American gun violence epidemic.This episode: political correspondent Susan Davis, justice correspondent Ryan Lucas, and science correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin....2023-05-0214 min
The NPR Politics PodcastUnlike Trump, Folks Who Don't Like Biden May Vote For Him AnywayBoth men are strikingly unpopular — two-thirds of Americans don't want Trump to run for president again and just 41 percent approve of Biden's job performance, according to a recent poll from NPR/PBS NewsHour/Marist. But the Democratic performance in the 2022 midterm elections and other recent polling suggests voters who don't like Biden might cast a ballot for him anyway.This episode: political correspondent Susan Davis, White House correspondent Scott Detrow, senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro, justice correspondent Ryan Lucas, and health correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin.The podcast is produced by Elena Moore and Casey Morell. Th...2023-04-2827 minKFF Health News' 'What the Health?'Dancing Under the Debt CeilingHouse Republicans passed their plan to raise the nation’s debt ceiling, along with major cuts to health (and other domestic) programs. Unlikely to become law, it calls for new work requirements for adults on Medicaid. Meanwhile, state efforts targeting trans people bear a striking resemblance to the fight against abortion rights. Jessie Hellmann of CQ Roll Call, Shefali Luthra of The 19th, and Sarah Karlin-Smith of the Pink Sheet join KFF Health News chief Washington correspondent Julie Rovner to discuss these issues and more. Also this week, Rovner interviews Renuka Rayasam, who reported the latest KFF Health News-NPR “Bill...2023-04-2737 min
The NPR Politics PodcastThe American Trade-Off: Guns And Cars For A Much Shorter LifespanIn 2013, researchers published a landmark study on why Americans of all incomes and demographics die years before their peers in comparable countries. In the decade since the report was published, that gap has only grown. We examine the policy choices behind Americans' shorter lives.This episode: political correspondent Susan Davis, national political correspondent Mara Liasson, and health correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin.The podcast is produced by Elena Moore and Casey Morell. It is edited by Eric McDaniel. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Research and fact-checking by Devin Speak.Unlock access to this and other...2023-03-2915 min
The NPR Politics PodcastThe American Trade-Off: Guns And Cars For A Much Shorter Lifespan In 2013, researchers published a landmark study on why Americans of all incomes and demographics die years before their peers in comparable countries. In the decade since the report was published, that gap has only grown. We examine the policy choices behind Americans' shorter lives.This episode: political correspondent Susan Davis, national political correspondent Mara Liasson, and health correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin.The podcast is produced by Elena Moore and Casey Morell. It is edited by Eric McDaniel. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Research and fact-checking by Devin Speak.Unlock access to this and other...2023-03-2915 min
The NPR Politics PodcastBiden Intends To End COVID Emergency Declarations. Now What?Republican Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy was at the White House on Wednesday for talks as President Biden continues to insist that the U.S. paying its debts is non-negotiable. House Republicans remove Rep. Ilhan Omar of Minnesota from her seat on the Foreign Relations committee. And in response to pressure from Congress, the administration says it will end the COVID emergency declaration. Here's what that means in practice.This episode: political correspondent Susan Davis, White House correspondent Tamara Keith, senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro, and health correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin.This episode was...2023-02-0327 min
The NPR Politics PodcastBiden Intends To End COVID Emergency Declarations. Now What?Republican Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy was at the White House on Wednesday for talks as President Biden continues to insist that the U.S. paying its debts is non-negotiable. House Republicans remove Rep. Ilhan Omar of Minnesota from her seat on the Foreign Relations committee. And in response to pressure from Congress, the administration says it will end the COVID emergency declaration. Here's what that means in practice.This episode: political correspondent Susan Davis, White House correspondent Tamara Keith, senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro, and health correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin.This episode was...2023-02-0327 min
Consider This from NPRHow Abortion Bans—Even With Medical Emergency Exemptions—Impact HealthcareChristina Zielke went to an ER in Ohio bleeding profusely while experiencing a miscarriage. This was in early September, before the state's 6-week abortion ban was put on hold by a judge. What happened to her next is an example of how new state abortion laws can affect medical care in emergency situations.Doctors who run afoul of these laws face the threat of felony charges, prison time and the loss of their medical license. NPR's Selena Simmons-Duffin reports that some doctors are asking themselves a tough question: when they are forced to choose between their...2022-11-2813 min
Consider This from NPRHow Abortion Bans—Even With Medical Emergency Exemptions—Impact HealthcareChristina Zielke went to an ER in Ohio bleeding profusely while experiencing a miscarriage. This was in early September, before the state's 6-week abortion ban was put on hold by a judge. What happened to her next is an example of how new state abortion laws can affect medical care in emergency situations.Doctors who run afoul of these laws face the threat of felony charges, prison time and the loss of their medical license. NPR's Selena Simmons-Duffin reports that some doctors are asking themselves a tough question: when they are forced to choose between their...2022-11-2813 min
That Took a TurnWe Are Elected MajestiesHannah and Kate contemplate all things presidential, from how the word "president" got its start to Andrew Jackson's gigantic wheel of cheese. They even bring this topic into international waters while pondering Haiti's preposterous path towards a presidency. The only things not included; political opinions and controversial content.Sources:"Andrew Jackson's Big Block of Cheese" by Robert Mcnamara"The Cost of Haiti's Freedom" episode of The Daily Podcast by the New York Times"Why 'president'? How the US named its leader" episode of the NPR podcast All Things Considered by Selena...2022-11-0735 min
Consider This from NPRQ & A: What An Abortion Ban Would Mean For Patients Who Need OneWhat happens if a medical condition threatens the life of a pregnant patient? What about a fetus with a lethal anomaly? Will treatment for miscarriage change? This episode we're answering those questions and others from listeners about what would happen if the Supreme Court overturns Roe v Wade — with help from NPR health policy correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin and Dr. Kristyn Brandi, an OB-GYN and family planning doctor who's also the board chair for Physicians for Reproductive Health.In participating regions, you'll also hear a local news segment to help you make sense of what's going on in your co...2022-05-3112 min
Consider This from NPRQ & A: What An Abortion Ban Would Mean For Patients Who Need OneWhat happens if a medical condition threatens the life of a pregnant patient? What about a fetus with a lethal anomaly? Will treatment for miscarriage change? This episode we're answering those questions and others from listeners about what would happen if the Supreme Court overturns Roe v Wade — with help from NPR health policy correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin and Dr. Kristyn Brandi, an OB-GYN and family planning doctor who's also the board chair for Physicians for Reproductive Health.In participating regions, you'll also hear a local news segment to help you make sense of what's going on in your co...2022-05-3111 min
Consider This from NPRHow Many Of America's One Million COVID Deaths Were Preventable?As the U.S. marks one million people dead from COVID-19, scientists suggest that nearly one third of those deaths could have been prevented if more people had chosen to be vaccinated. NPR's Selena Simmons-Duffin reports. And even though the unvaccinated continue to make up a majority of COVID-19 cases and related hospitalizations, the number of Americans who say they won't get a COVID shot hasn't budged in a year. NPR's John Burnett spoke to a few of them. In participating regions, you'll also hear a local news segment to help you make sense of what's...2022-05-1713 min
Consider This from NPRHow Many Of America's One Million COVID Deaths Were Preventable?As the U.S. marks one million people dead from COVID-19, scientists suggest that nearly one third of those deaths could have been prevented if more people had chosen to be vaccinated. NPR's Selena Simmons-Duffin reports. And even though the unvaccinated continue to make up a majority of COVID-19 cases and related hospitalizations, the number of Americans who say they won't get a COVID shot hasn't budged in a year. NPR's John Burnett spoke to a few of them. In participating regions, you'll also hear a local news segment to help you make sense of what's...2022-05-1713 min
Consider This from NPRRoe's Legal Fate Is Unclear. But Studies Already Show Who'd Likely Be Hit HardestDebates about the status of Roe v. Wade continue after the Supreme Court's draft opinion was leaked last week. This week, the Senate is planning to vote on legislation that would codify abortion rights into a federal law, but it's likely to fail given the 50-50 split between Democrats and Republicans. That means abortion access will be left up to states — and some already have restrictive abortion laws. Reproductive justice advocates are concerned about the disproportionate impact those laws will have on Black and Brown communities if Roe is overturned.NPR's Sandhya Dirks spoke to some ad...2022-05-0912 min
Consider This from NPRRoe's Legal Fate Is Unclear. But Studies Already Show Who'd Likely Be Hit HardestDebates about the status of Roe v. Wade continue after the Supreme Court's draft opinion was leaked last week. This week, the Senate is planning to vote on legislation that would codify abortion rights into a federal law, but it's likely to fail given the 50-50 split between Democrats and Republicans. That means abortion access will be left up to states — and some already have restrictive abortion laws. Reproductive justice advocates are concerned about the disproportionate impact those laws will have on Black and Brown communities if Roe is overturned.NPR's Sandhya Dirks spoke to some ad...2022-05-0912 min
Short WaveLessons From HIV On Ending The COVID PandemicThe world has come a long way since the COVID-19 pandemic began. There are now vaccines, at-home tests, masks and treatments. With all of these tools available, why is COVID still here?Health policy correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin talks to Scientist-In-Residence Regina Barber about what we can learn from the public health advocates working to end the HIV epidemic, how those lessons may translate to ending COVID and why having the scientific tools isn't enough.2022-05-0611 min
Short WaveLessons From HIV On Ending The COVID PandemicThe world has come a long way since the COVID-19 pandemic began. There are now vaccines, at-home tests, masks and treatments. With all of these tools available, why is COVID still here?Health policy correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin talks to Scientist-In-Residence Regina Barber about what we can learn from the public health advocates working to end the HIV epidemic, how those lessons may translate to ending COVID and why having the scientific tools isn't enough.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy2022-05-0611 min
The NPR Politics PodcastOn COVID, Democrats Struggle With The Tension Between Public Health And PoliticsThe White House continues to insist the country has the tools to return to life-as-usual, even as COVID spreads through establishment Washington. Low booster uptake among seniors and the lack of vaccines for children under five continues to cause public health experts concern.This episode: congressional correspondent Susan Davis, White House correspondent Asma Khalid, and health policy correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin.Connect:Email the show at nprpolitics@npr.orgJoin the NPR Politics Podcast Facebook Group.Subscribe to the NPR Politics Newsletter.Find and support your local public radio station.2022-04-1214 minThe NPR Politics PodcastOn COVID, Democrats Struggle With The Tension Between Public Health And PoliticsThe White House continues to insist the country has the tools to return to life-as-usual, even as COVID spreads through establishment Washington. Low booster uptake among seniors and the lack of vaccines for children under five continues to cause public health experts concern.This episode: congressional correspondent Susan Davis, White House correspondent Asma Khalid, and health policy correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin.Connect:Email the show at nprpolitics@npr.orgJoin the NPR Politics Podcast Facebook Group.Subscribe to the NPR Politics Newsletter.Find and support your local public radio station.Learn...2022-04-1214 min
Short WaveNIH Director Talks The Pandemic, Vaccine Hesitancy And Americans' HealthDr. Francis Collins talks with health correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin about Americans' overall health, how tribalism in American culture has fueled vaccine hesitancy, and advises his successor on how to persevere on research of politically charged topics — like guns and obesity and maternal health. Selena talks with host Emily Kwong about the conversation.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy2021-12-1516 min
Short WaveNIH Director Talks The Pandemic, Vaccine Hesitancy And Americans' HealthDr. Francis Collins talks with health correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin about Americans' overall health, how tribalism in American culture has fueled vaccine hesitancy, and advises his successor on how to persevere on research of politically charged topics — like guns and obesity and maternal health. Selena talks with host Emily Kwong about the conversation.2021-12-1516 min
Short WaveHow To Choose A Health Insurance PlanHealth insurance can be tremendously confusing, with its complexity, jargon and acronyms. But putting in a bit of time to learn what these health insurance terms mean can empower you to better understand what signing on to a plan might mean for your budget and your health.Whether you're picking a plan for the first time, thinking of changing a plan, or want to see your options, NPR health correspondent, Selena Simmons-Duffin offers tips for browsing and choosing a health insurance plan. This episode is brought to Short Wave in conjunction with our colleagues at Life Kit.2021-11-2418 min
Short WaveHow To Choose A Health Insurance PlanHealth insurance can be tremendously confusing, with its complexity, jargon and acronyms. But putting in a bit of time to learn what these health insurance terms mean can empower you to better understand what signing on to a plan might mean for your budget and your health.Whether you're picking a plan for the first time, thinking of changing a plan, or want to see your options, NPR health correspondent, Selena Simmons-Duffin offers tips for browsing and choosing a health insurance plan. This episode is brought to Short Wave in conjunction with our colleagues at Life Kit.2021-11-2418 min
Short WaveParents, We're Here To Help! Answers To Your COVID Vaccine QuestionsNow that the Pfizer COVID vaccine is authorized for children five to eleven years old, a lot of parents are deliberating about what to do next. NPR health policy correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin answers your questions about vaccine safety for kids, shedding masks at school and how soon you can schedule that long awaited indoor playdate.Email the show at shortwave@npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy2021-11-1613 min
Short WaveParents, We're Here To Help! Answers To Your COVID Vaccine QuestionsNow that the Pfizer COVID vaccine is authorized for children five to eleven years old, a lot of parents are deliberating about what to do next. NPR health policy correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin answers your questions about vaccine safety for kids, shedding masks at school and how soon you can schedule that long awaited indoor playdate.Email the show at shortwave@npr.org.2021-11-1613 min
Short WaveHousing and COVID: Why helping people pay rent can help fight the pandemicWhen people can't afford rent, they often end up in closer quarters. NPR health policy correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin shares two stories from her reporting and the research being done on housing and eviction policies in the US. For more of Selena's reporting, check out "Why helping people pay rent can fight the pandemic" (https://n.pr/3BIluHt).Follow Selena on Twitter @SelenaSD. You can email Short Wave at ShortWave@NPR.org.2021-11-0413 min
Short WaveHousing and COVID: Why helping people pay rent can help fight the pandemicWhen people can't afford rent, they often end up in closer quarters. NPR health policy correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin shares two stories from her reporting and the research being done on housing and eviction policies in the US. For more of Selena's reporting, check out "Why helping people pay rent can fight the pandemic" (https://n.pr/3BIluHt).Follow Selena on Twitter @SelenaSD. You can email Short Wave at ShortWave@NPR.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy2021-11-0413 min
Short WaveLessons Learned From Hindered Contact Tracing Efforts In The U.S.Early in the pandemic, contact tracing was viewed as one of the best options to quell the spread of coronavirus infections. The idea was to have public health workers track down people who tested positive, figure out whom they'd been in touch with and quickly get those people to quarantine. Places like Hong Kong and Singapore made headlines for their success stories. The U.S. aimed to replicate this, but came up short. Today, health reporter Selena Simmons-Duffin explains what went awry and the lessons learned.Reach the show by emailing shortwave@npr.org.2021-06-2814 min
Short WaveLessons Learned From Hindered Contact Tracing Efforts In The U.S.Early in the pandemic, contact tracing was viewed as one of the best options to quell the spread of coronavirus infections. The idea was to have public health workers track down people who tested positive, figure out whom they'd been in touch with and quickly get those people to quarantine. Places like Hong Kong and Singapore made headlines for their success stories. The U.S. aimed to replicate this, but came up short. Today, health reporter Selena Simmons-Duffin explains what went awry and the lessons learned.Reach the show by emailing shortwave@npr.org.Learn more...2021-06-2814 min
Did You Wash Your Hands?Inside The Pause On Johnson & Johnson's COVID-19 VaccineSelena Simmons-Duffin, health policy reporter for NPR, says still still not clear how federal officials' decision to briefly pause administration of Johnson & Johnson's vaccine will impact the national vaccination effort. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.2021-04-2728 min
Congressional Dish219: Oversights of CARESCOVID still rages, CARES Act provisions have expired, and Congress is on another vacation. In this episode, by piecing together information discovered in six CARES Act oversight hearings, find out what problems weren’t solved by the CARES Act, what happened to the CARES Act money, and get an idea of what is possible in the next COVID relief bill... If there is one. Please Support Congressional Dish – Quick Links to contribute monthly or a lump sum via to support Congressional Dish via Patreon (donations per episode) Send payments to: Send payments to: @Jennifer-Briney Send payments to: $CongressionalDish or Use your...2020-08-161h 46
KFF Health News' 'What the Health?'Fact-Checking President Trump’s State Of The UnionPresident Donald Trump spent a good deal of time on health issues in his State of the Union address, but not everything he said checks out. Meanwhile, Iowa Democrats heading into the caucuses said health is their top issue, but it’s hard to see how that played out in their actual choices. Margot Sanger-Katz of The New York Times, Kimberly Leonard of the Washington Examiner and Alice Miranda Ollstein of Politico join KHN’s Julie Rovner to discuss this and more. Also, Rovner interviews KHN’s Julie Appleby and NPR’s Selena Simmons-Duffin about the latest “Bill of the Month” fea...2020-02-0644 min
It's Been a MinuteWeekly Wrap: Climate Talks, PrEP Access, Women's RageInternational climate talks began this week in Madrid. The U.S. sent representatives even though President Trump has claimed the U.S. is officially out of the international climate accord. The Trump Administration also said this week it has a plan to distribute HIV-prevention medication for free to individuals without prescription drug insurance coverage. Does the plan go far enough? Plus, Jennifer Aniston gets angry in her performance in 'The Morning Show.' What does her character tell us about female rage? Sam is joined this week by NPR Science Reporter Rebecca Hersher and NPR Health Policy Reporter Selena Simmons-Duffin.2019-12-0643 min
SaltcastI’m Relatively HumanMarty Hagland, a transgendered woman, says it was a long time before her neighbors accepted her. “It took them a good three years to finally realize that I don’t bite. At least not very hard. And, if you stick a pin in me I bleed. I’m relatively human.” (Photo by Selena Simmons-Duffin) “r Hot off […]2008-12-2912 minSaltcastI’m Relatively HumanMarty Hagland, a transgendered woman, says it was a long time before her neighbors accepted her. “It took them a good three years to finally realize that I don’t bite. At least not very hard. And, if you stick a pin in me I bleed. I’m relatively human.” (Photo by Selena Simmons-Duffin) “r Hot off […]2008-12-2912 min