February 2009 | Table of Contents

Cover Story

The $64 Million Question

Given millions to improve health, how would you spend it? Minnesotans share their ideas.

Perspective

Pursuing the American Dream

By Cesar Emilio Ercole, M.D., with Therese Zink, M.D., M.P.H.

A medical student learns about the human side of immigration.

Reflections from the National Mall

By Edward P. Ehlinger, M.D., M.S.P.H.

A visit to the Washington, D.C., monuments is a reminder that there’s more to health than medicine.

Commentary

Taking on the Social Determinants of Health: A Framework for Action

By Thomas E. Kottke, M.D., M.S.P.H., and Nicolaas P. Pronk, Ph.D.

In order to improve health, we have to address poverty, poor nutrition, physical inactivity, and other big issues. Here’s how to start.

Clinical and Health Affairs

Race, Socioeconomic Position, and Premature Mortality

By Rhonda Jones-Webb, Dr.P.H., Xinhua Yu, Ph.D., M.D., Melanie Wall, Ph.D., Yue Cui, Ph.D., Wendy Hellerstedt, Ph.D., and John Oswald, Ph.D.

Advances in Global Biotechnology and Local Resources to Treat Malaria

By Ann M. Campagna, M.D., and Mrinal M. Patnaik, M.D.

Editor's Note

Root Causes

MMA Viewpoint

The Most Important Field

MMA News

MMA Urges Governor to Protect Safety Net
Deadline Arrives for E-verification of Benefits
MMA Weighs In on Psych Patient Case
Preventable Errors Up in Minnesota Hospitals

Tracking Reform