Racquel Stephen
Health/environment reporterRacquel Stephen is WXXI's health reporter. She joined the newsroom in 2021.
Racquel’s multifaceted radio background includes reporting for WAER in Syracuse and as a host for WLGZ-HD2 in Rochester.
Racquel holds a bachelor's degree in English literature from the University of Rochester and a master's degree in broadcasting and digital journalism from the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.
Racquel’s interest in health reporting stems from navigating through the developmental disabilities of her toddler son, and witnessing inequities within the health care system.
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Respiratory illnesses, like RSV, COVID-19 and the flu, are dropping. But local experts say another surge could happen. -
RSV is a common childhood sickness, but for many parents, it’s a nightmare right now. A run-in with RSV left this toddler’s mom grateful – and scared – for her child.
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With abortion care banned or limited in some states, Planned Parenthood of CWNY created a new position to handle the influx of out-of-state patients coming to New York for services.
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City officials are asking residents in underserved populations for their help in addressing disparities within the community.
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The University of Rochester has joined a clinical trial that is focused on getting ahead of Alzheimer’s disease.
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Seeing your primary care physician is often the first step in addressing any medical issue. That’s why the relationship between doctor and patient is so important, but some people with disabilities have a lack of trust and comfort in that relationship. One program hopes that training doctors can help.
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Flu and RSV cases continue to rise, but local health officials say here's how you can stay healthy even as you gather with your family and friends for Thanksgiving.
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In Monroe County, the number of reported flu cases more than doubled in one week. Experts say relaxed COVID protocols and vaccine fatigue may be the cause.
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The overcrowding at emergency rooms and urgent care facilities has hit crisis level locally and nationwide.
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Every year, Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield awards grants to local nonprofits addressing health disparities in the region.
