PROVINCETOWN — Though crystal meth has long been a fixture in Provincetown’s drug scene, the rest of the Cape is experiencing its first big brush with the extremely addictive stimulant. […]
Health & Healthcare
CORONAVIRUS
With Few Positives, Gaps in Reporting Remain
Visitors’ Covid test results are unavailable
WELLFLEET — There were no positive Covid-19 tests among the 987 people tested in Provincetown and Wellfleet during a two-day period in June, the Independent has learned. The tests, administered […]
OCHS Resumes Routine Appointments
PROVINCETOWN — Outer Cape Health Services, which operates urgent and primary care clinics in Provincetown, Wellfleet, and Harwich, is encouraging its primary-care patients to schedule routine health care appointments previously […]
HEALTH
How Much Is a Covid Test? Who Can Get One?
The answer, as usual: it’s complicated
PROVINCETOWN — Health care is rarely simple. The question of who can access it, where, when, and for how much often gets a conditional and specific answer that’s different for […]
COUNTY SEAT
Assembly Vote on Covid Rules Shows East-West Divide
The Outer Cape’s delegates, and Sen. Cyr, beg to differ
PROVINCETOWN — The Barnstable County Assembly of Delegates adopted a resolution on June 17 questioning the legality of Gov. Charlie Baker’s Covid-19 response. The Outer Cape’s delegates opposed the resolution, […]
DOG DAYS
Pandemic Is No Treat for the Four-Legged
While owners shelter at home, anxiety can be infectious
WELLFLEET — Though canines won’t be receiving a stimulus check, that doesn’t mean they haven’t been affected by the coronavirus crisis. Because of your dog’s acute ability to sense stress […]
ADDICTION
State Boosts Telehealth for Drug Therapy
Baker’s order makes treatment for substance abuse more accessible
Gov. Charlie Baker signed an executive order on March 15 expanding access to telehealth services for the duration of the Covid-19 crisis. His action has the potential to make Medication […]
REPORT-A-POTTY
Portable Toilet Businesses Are on a Roll
Cleaning is costly, but CARES funds should ease the burden
While much of the Cape economy is in the crapper due to coronavirus-related shutdowns and restrictions, porta-potty companies are flush. That’s because in a summer when Covid-19 has heightened fears […]
CORONAVIRUS
No Cases but Lots of Questions
Is it not here, or are we not finding it?
PROVINCETOWN — For four weeks now, Provincetown has detected zero new cases of coronavirus. Memorial Day weekend came and went. Phase two of the statewide reopening was announced; lodgings, retail […]
CORONAVIRUS
Early Test Results Look Good
But a negative test shouldn’t change behavior
WELLFLEET — The 449 free Covid-19 tests conducted at Outer Cape Health Services here on June 17 and 18 have so far showed zero positive results. Wellfleet’s clinic was one […]
THE NEW NORMAL
Contact Tracing Could Be a Challenge for Reopened Businesses
Self-isolation orders will affect employers, employees
PROVINCETOWN — The Outer Cape’s economy is opening back up. The streets are showing signs of life, as lodging, outdoor dining, and retail resume after a three-month hiatus. Workers and […]
TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS
Out-of-State Arrivals Still Told to Lie Low
Gov. Baker’s 14-day quarantine is advisory, not an order
PROVINCETOWN — On March 27, Gov. Charlie Baker issued an advisory that travelers into Massachusetts from other states should self-quarantine for 14 days. At that time, New York State was […]
VIRTUAL MEETINGS
Recovery Without Rooms
How to find healing fellowship in a time of isolation
For the past eight years, John has made coffee, opened doors, and greeted people as they entered the Wellfleet First Congregational Church for the weekly Saturday night Alcoholics Anonymous meetings. […]
HEALTH
The Doctor Is In, but Mostly Virtually
Questions and answers about how OCHS is coping
Outer Cape Health Services, the major provider of health care for the four Outer Cape towns, continues to operate its three clinics with reduced hours, staffing, and salaries, a result […]
WATER SAFETY
Swimming in the Pandemic: Fear and Reality
Coronavirus hell isn’t in the water — it’s other people
Scientists have reassuring news for Outer Cape residents and visitors who are worried about contracting coronavirus from swimming in ponds and in the ocean and Cape Cod Bay. There is […]
