Health care

MTPR is airing interviews with candidates running for federal office in 2026. MTPR's Victoria Traxler speaks with Ryan Busse, a Democrat running for Montana's western U.S. House seat.

MTPR is interviewing candidates running for federal office in 2026. MTPR's Shaylee Ragar speaks with Kimberly Persico, an independent candidate running for Montana's western U.S. House seat.

Lewis and Clark County health officials confirmed five new measles cases this week. According to a press release, the cases are not tied to local schools or daycares.

MTPR is interviewing candidates running for federal office in 2026. MTPR’s Austin Amestoy speaks with Sam Forstag, a Democrat running for Montana’s western district U.S. House seat.

Montana health officials say they will roll out new Medicaid work requirements by July, months ahead of the federal deadline. There’s been worry the state is moving too fast and that Montanans who still qualify will lose coverage. The Montana Healthcare Foundation has released a list of actions it says the state can take to avoid that fate.

States are rolling out plans for their share of a $50 billion fund meant to improve rural health care. In some states, the money may provoke rural hospitals to cut services.

The Montana State University Extension started the Montana Caregiver Respite Retreat Program in 2021 to help the state’s now 214,000 caregivers learn how to take care of themselves. It’s easier said than done, especially for those accustomed to providing round-the-clock care.

State health officials remain committed to a plan for implementing work requirements and other major changes to Medicaid months before a federal deadline. Federal officials aren’t expected to release detailed guidance until June, raising concerns about whether the state's plan is feasible.

Montana’s top health official pushed back on allegations that a new mental health facility will harm Laurel residents’ quality of life. Residents have questioned the facility since it was proposed late last year.

The Laurel City Council will consider whether to pause the annexation of property into the city later this month. The proposal comes as residents and council members accuse the state of not being transparent about its plans to build a mental health facility.