Health

Lawmaker: South Dakota can implement medical marijuana program by November

Despite failed attempts by South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem to delay implementation of a medical marijuana program, a legislative leader on marijuana issues believes the state can be ready to roll out its first prescriptions for legal pot by Nov. 18, 2021, as scheduled. Noem said the state needed more

Health concerns rise as dental patients in SD put off care during pandemic

Many South Dakotans have put off needed dental care during the COVID-19 pandemic, increasing the risk of gum disease, tooth and bone loss or other serious health issues related to poor dental care, which can include heart attacks and diabetes. Patients with acute dental problems and those who undergo routine

Legalization of marijuana could provide economic boost for SD Native American tribes

Legalization of marijuana in South Dakota could provide a new, lucrative economic-development opportunity for Native American tribes and tribal members who have historically struggled to find prosperity and stability in the state economy. Voter-approved measures to legalize marijuana in South Dakota may be on hold or stalled for the time

Proposed health plan for SD farmers would fall outside state and federal regulations

South Dakota lawmakers have passed a bill that would allow agricultural industry groups to develop their own health-benefit plans that would be outside the purview and regulation of the state Division of Insurance and which would sidestep some federal consumer protections. The measure is being pushed by the South Dakota

COVID antibody treatment available and effective but delivery slower than desired in SD

A relatively new medical treatment that can reduce symptoms, speed recovery and even prevent death due to COVID-19 in some patients is widely available across the U.S. and South Dakota but is not being used as much as health officials and medical providers would like. Only about 30% to

Questions remain for who qualifies next to get COVID-19 vaccine in SD

South Dakota health officials and medical providers have been near the top of the nation in administering COVID-19 vaccines as they become available, but a significant new challenge awaits as the state moves into a much larger, more difficult-to-define population of people who may qualify for a shot. That upcoming

COVID-19 deaths place logistical and emotional burdens on SD funeral directors

Funeral director Mitch Steinhoff’s alarm goes off at 4 a.m. most days so he can get in a few hours of work before the phones start ringing at 8. One call can change the whole day in the funeral business, and for Steinhoff, owner of Eidsness Funeral Home