The four companies picked to run Iowa’s Medicaid program are promising to create hundreds of jobs to help do it. United Healthcare is projecting the addition of 250 workers, Amerihealth Caritas plans to open three community wellness centers, Wellcare pledged to open several offices, and Amerigroup has found space in West Des Moines for a new headquarters.
The Iowa VA medical staffing is better than the national average, according to a new report. While some of the nation’s VA hospitals and clinics face serious staff shortages, the VA hospital and clinics in Iowa have some of the lowest rates of unfilled jobs in the country.
Iowa State Fair officials have sent home nine pigs that were part of the Avenue of Breeds because they tested positive for swine flu. The pigs are expected to be able to recuperate better at home.
A civil rights group is calling for the removal of a monument in Knoxville that honors vets. It’s not the black silhouette of a kneeling soldier they object to, it’s the white cross that’s part of the artwork. Americans United for Separation of Church and State wants the cross removed. The group says the cross violates the First Amendment, since it’s on public property.
The fall semester at ISU begins Monday with 36-thousand students. This is expected to be another record enrollment, and it’s causing another housing crunch, with hundreds of students reportedly scrambling for quarters on campus.
The state treasurer has been tracking kids’ interest in college during the Iowa State Fair. Michael Fitzgerald says 89 percent of those that took part in the College Savings Iowa survey believe a college education is needed to making their dreams and career aspirations happen. 21 percent of the kids say they want to become veterinarians, 20 percent want to be pro athletes, and 14 percent want to be teachers.
Your fitness tracker may be slacking, according to new ISU research. While the trackers may provide a good overall estimate of calories burned, but are less accurate when it comes to strength training.
The University of Iowa wants its incoming students to make sure their shots are up to date. Six cases of the mumps have been reported on campus over the summer. Students generally have til the end of the semester to show proof of their immunizations, but campus health officials want to make sure they’re protected.
Des Moines Public Schools is battling a substitute teacher shortage. Administrators are trying to attract new talent by hiring a full-time sub recruiter and upping pay for subs.
The Aerial Expo brings aerialists, acrobats and jugglers from around the country to The Science Center of Iowa Friday through Sunday. They’ll have showcases and competitions throughout the weekend.
