Policy

An exterior photo of the University of Michigan School of Public Health in grayscale, with a green streetsign reading

On the Heights: April 2025

Departmental news, research highlights, community achievements, and more to help you stay connected with the Michigan Public Health community.

A vaccine needle and vial on a stack of hundred dollar bills.

Investing in COVID-19 vaccination more than paid off for US

The national vaccine strategy paid for itself after just one year, according to a study led by University of Michigan researchers. The United States prevented far more in medical spending and lost productivity than it spent on testing, buying and delivering the 2021 vaccines.

A person walks a cart down a grocery aisle.

Restriction vs. incentives: The complex reality of SNAP food policies

U-M expert: SNAP food restrictions don't improve health outcomes, while incentive programs show promise

Several states are considering restricting SNAP benefit purchases for soda and certain products like chips and candy. Michigan Public Health professor and researcher Kate Bauer explains why such restrictions fail to improve health outcomes while increasing stigma, and offers evidence-based alternatives that preserve dignity for recipients.

An exterior photo of the University of Michigan School of Public Health in grayscale, with a green streetsign reading

On the Heights: March 2025

Departmental news, research highlights, community achievements, and more to help you stay connected with the Michigan Public Health community.