· 4 issues
The May 1971 issue of HealthPAC Bulletin focuses on the devastating health impacts of the Vietnam War on civilians, particularly the use of herbicides and bombing strategies that have led to widespread destruction and suffering. It highlights the staggering civilian casualties, with approximately one million South Vietnamese killed, and discusses the long-term ecological and health effects of chemical warfare, including birth defects linked to Agent Orange. The issue also critiques U.S. military strategies that prioritize destruction over humanitarian considerations, drawing parallels between the treatment of South Vietnamese civilians and historical injustices faced by American Indians. Notable articles include detailed accounts of the psychological and physical toll of war on the Vietnamese population and the implications of U.S. pharmaceutical practices in the region.
The July-August 1980 issue of HealthPAC Bulletin focuses on the intersection of health, environment, and regulation, highlighting the petrochemical industry's push against government oversight at the expense of public health. An article discusses community health in Chicago, emphasizing how environmental factors impact health outcomes more than hospital care. The issue also features insights on the growing urban poor population and its implications for health services, particularly as cities face budget cuts and increased demand for care. Additionally, the issue touches on the role of health educators and the need for collective action in health promotion.
The first issue of Volume 12 of HealthPAC Bulletin reflects on the evolution and challenges faced by community health centers (CHCs) after fifteen years of operation. It discusses how these centers, initially designed to provide comprehensive care to underserved populations, are now at risk due to shifting federal policies favoring larger hospitals. Notable articles highlight the impact of economic cuts on healthcare access for poor and minority communities in Detroit, and the ongoing struggles for hospital rights and consumer advocacy in urban areas. The issue also touches on broader themes of health equity and the political dynamics influencing healthcare delivery in the U.S.
The May-June 1982 issue of HealthPAC Bulletin critiques the Reagan Administration's health care cutbacks, highlighting the detrimental impact on vulnerable populations, particularly in Washington, D.C., where infant mortality rates are alarmingly high. The issue features a letter from the editor emphasizing the need for accountability regarding the consequences of these cutbacks, and it discusses the Civilian Military Contingency Hospital System (CMCHS) and its opposition from health care workers and community activists. Additionally, the Bulletin addresses the intersection of environmental health and labor rights, advocating for coalitions between workers and communities to combat industrial hazards.