The December 1969 issue of HealthPAC focuses on the struggle for community control over health services, particularly in the context of mental health facilities in New York City. It highlights the challenges faced by local residents, particularly Black and Puerto Rican communities in Washington Heights, against the established power of institutions like Columbia University and the Department of Mental Health. The issue critiques the top-down planning approach that often excludes community voices and emphasizes the need for grassroots involvement in decision-making processes. The editorial stresses that true community control is essential for addressing the social determinants of health and ensuring that services meet the actual needs of the community.
The January-February 1980 issue of HealthPAC Bulletin focuses on the ongoing challenges of affirmative action in medical school admissions, particularly in the context of the Bakke decision. The article 'Bakke-ing Up the Wrong Tree' critiques the myths surrounding minority students' aspirations and motivations, arguing that systemic racism and financial barriers continue to hinder progress. Additionally, the issue discusses corporate strategies to cut healthcare costs, highlighting the tension between business interests and the medical establishment, as well as the consolidation of hospitals in New York City, which raises concerns about access to community-based care. The issue also reflects on recent civil rights struggles, including violence against demonstrators in Greensboro, connecting these events to broader themes of health equity and social justice.