Introducing Michigan Health Watch ‒ the health coverage Michigan deserves
We’re delighted today to introduce Michigan Health Watch, the latest addition to Bridge Magazine’s award-winning statewide news coverage.
The thrice-monthly reports ‒ two on various aspects of healthcare and a third tailored to mental health ‒ represent a significant expansion of our nonpartisan digital news organization. Bridge soon will add another reporter to our stable of experienced journalists. And in an era of dwindling resources at many daily newspapers, we are now able to give readers the comprehensive attention this critical issue demands.
Today’s launch follows a series of staff expansions since late 2017, including a Michigan Environment Watch report and the creation of two Lansing watchdog reporters to more closely chronicle the machinations of state government.
The health reports are made possible by generous financial support from the Michigan Health Endowment Fund, the Michigan Association of Health Plans, and the Michigan Health and Hospital Association. The monthly mental health report is made possible by the generous financial support of the Ethel & James Flinn Foundation. Like all of Bridge’s public service journalism, this new health and mental health initiative is also made possible by growth in reader donations.
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Each underwriter is supporting in-depth reporting on the intersection between public policy and important health topics ‒ such as insurance coverage, hospital admissions, opioid abuse, access to care, medical research and the business of health care ‒ that impact nearly every Michigan resident. Bridge journalism remains editorially independent and will not be influenced by any individual or organization that helps fund our nonprofit mission.
It’s a thrill to formally launch our health and mental-health newsletters, after more than a year of development. We’re equally thrilled about building, brick by brick, a deep and talented news organization that’s worthy of Michigan and its challenges.
If you have a story idea or news tip relating to healthcare or mental health issues in Michigan, send it my way. As always, a huge thanks for your support and your critiques of our coverage. Your feedback makes Bridge smarter and better.
David Zeman
Bridge Editor
See what new members are saying about why they donated to Bridge Michigan:
- “In order for this information to be accurate and unbiased it must be underwritten by its readers, not by special interests.” - Larry S.
- “Not many other media sources report on the topics Bridge does.” - Susan B.
- “Your journalism is outstanding and rare these days.” - Mark S.
If you want to ensure the future of nonpartisan, nonprofit Michigan journalism, please become a member today. You, too, will be asked why you donated and maybe we'll feature your quote next time!