Memorial Day weekend safety tips, closed shellfishing areas

Car packed for summer vacation.

This could be the biggest Memorial Day weekend for travel in close to 20 years say those who keep track of this sort of thing. Knowing that, many will be staying close to home, visiting each other, going to outdoor events, etc. Ahead of Memorial Day, the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) is issuing…

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NEW: Linn Health says it will close. Medicaid site visit. State response.

Elderly woman's hand on cane, caregiver's support.

UPDATED: Statement from Aldersbridge Communities (nonprofit parent organization of Linn Health and Rehabilitation) from CEO Richard Gamache. Linn Health and Rehabilitation is submitting its facility closure plan today (May 24) and will begin coordinating with the RIDOH and State Ombudsman team on the orderly transfer of residents according to plan. There are 22 studio apartments…

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Free ‘Skin Check’ screenings available at select Rhode Island beaches

A woman is using an electric device on a man's back.

 Between Friday and mid-August, the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH), Brown Dermatology, and partners statewide will be making free skin cancer screenings available at select Rhode Island parks and beaches on five dates. “Along with seeking shade and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more, getting a skin check is…

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In the Arena – Joe Paolino, Jr. with Dr. James McDonald, RIDOH

James mcdonald, acting director, ri department of health.

Each Sunday, Joe Paolino, Jr. interviews a person with important messages for Rhode Island. This week Paolino interviews Dr. James McDonald, acting director of the RI Department of Health. They talk about the new variant – B.a.2 – of COVID – it is in Rhode Island but not causing a large uptick at this time…

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Important Advisory on powdered baby formula – Similac, Alimentum & EleCare

A man holding a baby in his arms.

Editor’s Note: These formulas have been identified in use in Rhode Island The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) is advising consumers that federal health officials are investigating four infant illnesses related to products from an Abbott Nutrition facility in Sturgis, Michigan. All of the cases are reported to have consumed powdered infant formula from this…

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Dr. Stephen Skoly appeals to federal court to resume oral surgery practice

A man in glasses is sitting in front of a computer.

Dr. Stephen Skoly and his legal team today filed a lawsuit in federal court against defendants Governor Daniel McKee and James McDonald, MD, interim Director of the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH), seeking a temporary restraining order enjoining the State from barring Dr. Skoly from providing critical care for his patients.  Dr. Skoly is Chairman…

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