Thousands set for health insurance subsidy probe
Reported by ajc.com 19 hours ago.
Thousands set for health insurance subsidy probe
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Many Patients Struggling to Understand New Health Insurance
Many Patients Struggling to Understand New Health Insurance
Reported by ajc.com 17 hours ago.
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Support for Massachusetts health law unscathed by website woes: poll
BOSTON (Reuters) - Public support for Massachusetts’ 2006 healthcare law has remained above 60 percent despite a rocky rollout of the state’s new health insurance website, according to a poll from The Boston Globe and The Harvard School of Public Health.
Reported by Reuters 17 hours ago.
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Hobby Lobby's Green Family Building Biblical Museum
The Supreme Court is due to decide whether the owners of Hobby Lobby craft supplies stores can be forced by the federal government to include in their employee health insurance forms of contraception that are against their religious beliefs. The Green family, however, has set its sights on much more than a lawsuit against Obamacare: they hope to help Americans become more familiar with a book called the Bible.As noted by Politico’s Stephanie Simon, the Greens are “building a huge museum dedicated to the Bible a few blocks from the Mall in Washington, D.C., with as much public space as the National Museum of American History.”
In fact, the Green Collection, according to the Green Scholars Initiative website, “is among the world’s largest private collection of rare biblical texts and artifacts. Scholars have scoured the world to assemble the more than 40,000 biblical antiquities that today comprise the collection.”
The Green Collection, which had its debut in 2011, features items such as pieces of the Dead Sea Scrolls and rare illuminated manuscripts. As reported by Fox News, one manuscript, which was copied in 1156, contains the Gospels, Eusebian Canon Tables, and portraits of the Evangelists.
Another item in the collection is a rare Sephardic Scroll written on gvil, a specially processed skin, that was produced in northern Spain during the Spanish Inquisition in the 13th century, a period of Jewish persecution which led to Jews’ expulsion from the region.
Steve Green, president of Hobby Lobby, wants to celebrate the Bible because it is a text that changed humanity. Last fall, he and his wife Jackie took their collection to Israel for the opening of a temporary Bible exhibit in Jerusalem’s Bible Lands Museum called “The Book of Books,” which featured portions of the Dead Sea scrolls, the Codex Climaci Rescriptus (one of the oldest copies of the Bible written in Palestinian Aramaic, the language of Jesus and his family), and original pages from the Gutenberg Bible.
“It’s a bit of a history of the Bible, starting from the Dead Sea scrolls going through the King James version, and many of the artifacts show that timeline,” Green told FoxNews.com. “With our collection as a whole, we wanted to encourage people to know their Bible better, whether it be here in America or anywhere around the world.”
That traveling exhibit will be part of the permanent museum in Washington, D.C., which, Green says, will open early in 2017. Green will serve as the museum’s chairman of the board and will oversee its expansion and outreach of the collection.
“The Book of Books exhibit will serve to delineate the relationship between the Jewish and Christian faiths by tracing the transmission of the biblical text over the last two millennia, spanning from the Judean wilderness to the nations of the world,” said museum curator Heather Reichstadt. “Visitors will enjoy some 150 artifacts displayed in immersive contextual settings that bring history to life.”
Green says his exhibit has been generally well received, though he is aware of the potential for “controversy” when religion is a focus of public attention.
“So far, it’s been well received everywhere we’ve been,” he said. “But there will be controversy; there will be people who don’t like the Bible for whatever reason. But we just want to educate people on a book that’s impacted our world and let them make their own choice.”
Green’s views are “beginning to stir concern, not just among the ACLU and atheist groups such as the Freedom From Religion Foundation, but even from some Bible scholars,” Politico states.
John Kutsko, executive director of the International Society of Biblical Literature, told Politico that a multi-million dollar Bible curriculum the Green family hopes to place in public schools is inappropriate both in a public school and in a private museum and that “by virtue of being adjacent to the Mall [it] gives the impression that it’s almost a national museum.”
Harry Stout, a professor of Divinity at Yale University and a consultant for the museum, however, said, “I can assure you, I would not be involved” if the Green family’s goal was to evangelize rather than provide scholarship on the Bible.
“They’re really interested in getting it right,” Stout said. Reported by Breitbart 13 hours ago.
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How The Starbucks Free College Plan Could Save It Millions Of Dollars Per Year
This fall, Starbucks is partnering with Arizona State University to offer employees tuition reimbursement for online classes, including full payment for those entering as juniors and seniors.
It will require a significant investment to help thousands of eligible employees achieve bachelor's degrees, but the payoff could end up being greater.
If the Starbucks College Achievement Plan is a success, then Starbucks could save millions of dollars on training and turnover and will attract a higher level of employee, says Tom Gimbel, president and CEO of the staffing and recruiting firm LaSalle Network.
"I think it's great," Gimbel tells Business Insider. "This is a smart investment."
Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz did not reveal how much the program is expected to cost, but getting a degree from ASU's online program costs between $3,000 and $10,000, and ASU president Michael Crow told The Wall Street Journal that he expects 15,000 to 20,000 Starbucks employees to enroll in the online program annually.
For employees who work at least 20 hours each week, the company will pay full tuition for those finishing their final two years of a bachelor's degree and partial tuition for everyone else. Those who need additional assistance will be eligible for federal Pell grants. Starbucks will not require employees to stay with the company after they get their degree.
Gimbel points to Schultz' 2011 book "Onward," which details Schultz's concern with high turnover of employees and the high cost of training as motivation for the decision.
While Starbucks has a relatively good retention rate for the retail industry, the Washington Post estimates that it costs around $3,000 to replace an employee and that because "food businesses can have more than a 100% turnover rate if they replace their entire staff more than once per year, the cost of school could be worth it."
For many people, a job at Starbucks is part of a career transition phase or a way to support an education, and the company knows this. It says that 70% of its employees are either college students or want to eventually get a bachelor's.
"The company has always been about getting people to feel like working at Starbucks is better than working at a place like McDonald's," Gimbel says, and he thinks this program will not only incentivize more people to join the company, but it will attract a "more motivated employee."
"I believe it will lower attrition, it'll increase performance, it'll attract and retain better people," Schultz tells the New York Times.
Getting a degree through Starbucks may also motivate some employees to stick with the company and pursue a managerial position.
It's an added incentive now that Starbucks' healthcare benefits are less attractive in the Obamacare age of more readily available health insurance.
Gimbel thinks that there will of course be an adjustment period, mostly dealing with employees who are upset about details over eligibility. Workers at licensed locations, like the ones in some grocery stores, won't be eligible, and employees will still have to go through the full ASU application process.
Ultimately, Gimbel expects it to be a success, even if it takes a few years to start working ideally.
And on top of potential savings on training and the growth of a more motivated workforce, there's plenty of great publicity that comes out of it.
Schultz, who grew up in the projects in Brooklyn and went to Northern Michigan University on scholarship, says the initiative is personal for him. "We want to create access to the American dream," he says.
*SEE ALSO: 15 Companies That Will Help Pay Your College Tuition*
Join the conversation about this story » Reported by Business Insider 12 hours ago.
It will require a significant investment to help thousands of eligible employees achieve bachelor's degrees, but the payoff could end up being greater.
If the Starbucks College Achievement Plan is a success, then Starbucks could save millions of dollars on training and turnover and will attract a higher level of employee, says Tom Gimbel, president and CEO of the staffing and recruiting firm LaSalle Network.
"I think it's great," Gimbel tells Business Insider. "This is a smart investment."
Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz did not reveal how much the program is expected to cost, but getting a degree from ASU's online program costs between $3,000 and $10,000, and ASU president Michael Crow told The Wall Street Journal that he expects 15,000 to 20,000 Starbucks employees to enroll in the online program annually.
For employees who work at least 20 hours each week, the company will pay full tuition for those finishing their final two years of a bachelor's degree and partial tuition for everyone else. Those who need additional assistance will be eligible for federal Pell grants. Starbucks will not require employees to stay with the company after they get their degree.
Gimbel points to Schultz' 2011 book "Onward," which details Schultz's concern with high turnover of employees and the high cost of training as motivation for the decision.
While Starbucks has a relatively good retention rate for the retail industry, the Washington Post estimates that it costs around $3,000 to replace an employee and that because "food businesses can have more than a 100% turnover rate if they replace their entire staff more than once per year, the cost of school could be worth it."
For many people, a job at Starbucks is part of a career transition phase or a way to support an education, and the company knows this. It says that 70% of its employees are either college students or want to eventually get a bachelor's.
"The company has always been about getting people to feel like working at Starbucks is better than working at a place like McDonald's," Gimbel says, and he thinks this program will not only incentivize more people to join the company, but it will attract a "more motivated employee."
"I believe it will lower attrition, it'll increase performance, it'll attract and retain better people," Schultz tells the New York Times.
Getting a degree through Starbucks may also motivate some employees to stick with the company and pursue a managerial position.
It's an added incentive now that Starbucks' healthcare benefits are less attractive in the Obamacare age of more readily available health insurance.
Gimbel thinks that there will of course be an adjustment period, mostly dealing with employees who are upset about details over eligibility. Workers at licensed locations, like the ones in some grocery stores, won't be eligible, and employees will still have to go through the full ASU application process.
Ultimately, Gimbel expects it to be a success, even if it takes a few years to start working ideally.
And on top of potential savings on training and the growth of a more motivated workforce, there's plenty of great publicity that comes out of it.
Schultz, who grew up in the projects in Brooklyn and went to Northern Michigan University on scholarship, says the initiative is personal for him. "We want to create access to the American dream," he says.
*SEE ALSO: 15 Companies That Will Help Pay Your College Tuition*
Join the conversation about this story » Reported by Business Insider 12 hours ago.
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Wearable Tech's Path To Health Insurance
Several companies are already giving their staff wearable trackers to help lower health care costs. If monitoring steps up, gadgets could help determine how much you pay for insurance. Music: "Morning Sax" by Heiko Bentrup
Reported by Forbes.com 9 hours ago.
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APNewsBreak: Oregon closer to health exchange suit
Oregon has taken new steps toward a potential lawsuit against the developers of its failed health insurance website by hiring a phalanx of lawyers and issuing demands for evidence and other material that could be used in a civil case against technology giant Oracle Corp.
Reported by Miami Herald 11 hours ago.
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Solutions for 3 Health-Insurance Challenges
Solutions for 3 Health-Insurance Challenges
Reported by ajc.com 10 hours ago.
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Experient Health Uncovers Fat Myths In Latest Blog Post
When it comes to fat consumption, it often seems like there’s a lot of noise and little agreement about how much (or how little) people should eat. This can be frustrating for people who are trying to be healthy and follow expert recommendations, and it’s tempting to try to eliminate fat intake altogether and let the experts fight it out.
Richmond, Va. (PRWEB) June 16, 2014
When it comes to fat consumption, it often seems like there’s a lot of noise and little agreement about how much (or how little) people should eat. This can be frustrating for people who are trying to be healthy and follow expert recommendations, and it’s tempting to try to eliminate fat intake altogether and let the experts fight it out.
But is the amount of fat people eat really the issue, Experient Health asks in its latest post in a blogging series on how to live well and work well to create a healthy lifestyle.
"According to the Harvard School of Public Health, it’s time to end the low-fat myth," wrote Experient Health, the health insurance arm of the Virginia Farm Bureau. "Research has shown that the number of calories from fat that you eat, whether high or low, isn’t really linked with disease. What really matters is the type of fat."
Unsaturated fats, which are found in nuts, avocadoes, fish and vegetable oils, are considered “good” fats, Experient Health explained. Some of these, like omega-3 fatty acids, are considered essential fats that must be eaten regularly because the body cannot produce them internally.
Saturated fats, which are found in cheese, butter, red meat and some oils, have long been seen as a key culprit of heart disease and high cholesterol.
The American Heart Association, along with the Harvard School of Public Health, recommends limiting saturated fat consumption, but cautions against doing so by choosing products that replace fat with sugars and other refined carbohydrates.
"In fact, a 2009 review published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition concluded that replacing saturated fats with carbs had no discernable benefits, while replacing saturated fats with unsaturated fats reduced the risk of heart disease," Experient Health reported.
Finally, there are trans fats, found in heavily processed breads, baking mixes, shortening, snack foods and fried foods. For once, there is little disagreement—the overwhelming scientific consensus suggests that trans fats are dangerous. Last year, the Food and Drug Administration took the dramatic step of seeking to redefine artificial trans fats as “generally not recognized as safe.”
As for obesity, the trend is clear: Over the past 30 years in the United States, the percentage of calories from fat in people’s diets has gone down, but obesity rates have skyrocketed. This suggests that limiting fat intake is not a silver bullet for weight loss.
With the exception of trans fats, eliminating all fat to make your overall diet healthier is a bad idea. The key to a healthy diet, including fat intake, has always been balance.
Looking for healthy eating tips? Check out these and other Experient Health blog posts. The cornerstone to preventative medicine is healthy living, Experient Health promotes. Reported by PRWeb 9 hours ago.
Richmond, Va. (PRWEB) June 16, 2014
When it comes to fat consumption, it often seems like there’s a lot of noise and little agreement about how much (or how little) people should eat. This can be frustrating for people who are trying to be healthy and follow expert recommendations, and it’s tempting to try to eliminate fat intake altogether and let the experts fight it out.
But is the amount of fat people eat really the issue, Experient Health asks in its latest post in a blogging series on how to live well and work well to create a healthy lifestyle.
"According to the Harvard School of Public Health, it’s time to end the low-fat myth," wrote Experient Health, the health insurance arm of the Virginia Farm Bureau. "Research has shown that the number of calories from fat that you eat, whether high or low, isn’t really linked with disease. What really matters is the type of fat."
Unsaturated fats, which are found in nuts, avocadoes, fish and vegetable oils, are considered “good” fats, Experient Health explained. Some of these, like omega-3 fatty acids, are considered essential fats that must be eaten regularly because the body cannot produce them internally.
Saturated fats, which are found in cheese, butter, red meat and some oils, have long been seen as a key culprit of heart disease and high cholesterol.
The American Heart Association, along with the Harvard School of Public Health, recommends limiting saturated fat consumption, but cautions against doing so by choosing products that replace fat with sugars and other refined carbohydrates.
"In fact, a 2009 review published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition concluded that replacing saturated fats with carbs had no discernable benefits, while replacing saturated fats with unsaturated fats reduced the risk of heart disease," Experient Health reported.
Finally, there are trans fats, found in heavily processed breads, baking mixes, shortening, snack foods and fried foods. For once, there is little disagreement—the overwhelming scientific consensus suggests that trans fats are dangerous. Last year, the Food and Drug Administration took the dramatic step of seeking to redefine artificial trans fats as “generally not recognized as safe.”
As for obesity, the trend is clear: Over the past 30 years in the United States, the percentage of calories from fat in people’s diets has gone down, but obesity rates have skyrocketed. This suggests that limiting fat intake is not a silver bullet for weight loss.
With the exception of trans fats, eliminating all fat to make your overall diet healthier is a bad idea. The key to a healthy diet, including fat intake, has always been balance.
Looking for healthy eating tips? Check out these and other Experient Health blog posts. The cornerstone to preventative medicine is healthy living, Experient Health promotes. Reported by PRWeb 9 hours ago.
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Oregon moves toward lawsuit over health exchange
Oregon issued legal demands for documents that could become evidence in a possible lawsuit against the developer of the states failed health insurance website, a solid indication its preparing for a civil case against technology giant Oracle Corp.
Reported by MyNorthwest.com 4 hours ago.
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Sweet & Baker Insurance Brokers, Inc Partners with Maxwell Health, Pairing a Revolutionary Operating System with Topline Insurance
Sweet & Baker Insurance Brokers, Inc. announced a new strategic partnership today with Maxwell Health to support and enhance their current offerings and provide their customers with intuitive, powerful technology to manage their employee benefit offerings and engage in wellness programs.
San Francisco, CA (PRWEB) June 17, 2014
Sweet & Baker Insurance Brokers, Inc. announced a new strategic partnership today with Maxwell Health to support and enhance their current offerings and provide their customers with intuitive, powerful technology to manage their employee benefit offerings and engage in wellness programs.
Available nationwide, Maxwell Health offers an online, fully paperless, mobile-enabled operating system for employee benefits. Maxwell Health’s system streamlines the enrollment process for HR administrators and employees while providing an engaging employee shopping experience. Benefits advisors are able to easily curate lifestyle-based benefits packages from Maxwell’s inventory of products, supported by timely, relevant decision support.
Maxwell also provides a unique health engagement platform for employees after the enrollment process ends. This system, available via Maxwell’s mobile app, integrates with other best-in-class health products like Health Advocate, fitness devices, and telemedicine devices, and includes a time and money-saving health care concierge, a turnkey wellness program that incentivises healthy lifestyles, and provides on-demand access to employee benefits information.
Bruce Callander, President of Sweet & Baker, said of the partnership, “Maxwell is a dynamic leader in the online benefit servicing arena. We are very excited to have them as an important partner to give our clients easy access to their benefit management. Our clients find their product revolutionary and very easy to use.”
Founded in 1951, Sweet & Baker has grown into one of the largest independent insurance agencies in the Bay Area. Offering the sale and service of personal insurance, employee benefits, and commercial insurance products, they specialize in providing turnkey solutions for small and medium size groups in San Francisco, the Bay Area, and throughout California. They maintain longstanding relationships with all of the major insurance carriers, and prioritize personalized service to each of their clients.
“Sweet & Baker’s suite of technology and start-up clientele is a great fit for what we’ve built here at Maxwell,” said Veer Gidwaney, CEO and CoFounder at Maxwell Health. “Sweet & Baker prioritizes providing the most innovative technology solutions to their clients, and we’re really excited to be a part of their total offering.”
About Sweet and Baker:
Sweet & Baker is a full service San Francisco-based insurance broker offering the sale and service of personal insurance, life and health insurance and commercial insurance products, including employee benefits insurance, technology, and workers compensation insurance throughout the greater Bay Area and Silicon Valley in California. We were established in 1951 by Donald Sweet and Bruce Baker, both native San Franciscans. Our client services include an impartial assessment of benefit plans, a resource for statutory issues, renewal assessments, and ongoing support for enrollment, billing, administration and claim issues. Reported by PRWeb 3 hours ago.
San Francisco, CA (PRWEB) June 17, 2014
Sweet & Baker Insurance Brokers, Inc. announced a new strategic partnership today with Maxwell Health to support and enhance their current offerings and provide their customers with intuitive, powerful technology to manage their employee benefit offerings and engage in wellness programs.
Available nationwide, Maxwell Health offers an online, fully paperless, mobile-enabled operating system for employee benefits. Maxwell Health’s system streamlines the enrollment process for HR administrators and employees while providing an engaging employee shopping experience. Benefits advisors are able to easily curate lifestyle-based benefits packages from Maxwell’s inventory of products, supported by timely, relevant decision support.
Maxwell also provides a unique health engagement platform for employees after the enrollment process ends. This system, available via Maxwell’s mobile app, integrates with other best-in-class health products like Health Advocate, fitness devices, and telemedicine devices, and includes a time and money-saving health care concierge, a turnkey wellness program that incentivises healthy lifestyles, and provides on-demand access to employee benefits information.
Bruce Callander, President of Sweet & Baker, said of the partnership, “Maxwell is a dynamic leader in the online benefit servicing arena. We are very excited to have them as an important partner to give our clients easy access to their benefit management. Our clients find their product revolutionary and very easy to use.”
Founded in 1951, Sweet & Baker has grown into one of the largest independent insurance agencies in the Bay Area. Offering the sale and service of personal insurance, employee benefits, and commercial insurance products, they specialize in providing turnkey solutions for small and medium size groups in San Francisco, the Bay Area, and throughout California. They maintain longstanding relationships with all of the major insurance carriers, and prioritize personalized service to each of their clients.
“Sweet & Baker’s suite of technology and start-up clientele is a great fit for what we’ve built here at Maxwell,” said Veer Gidwaney, CEO and CoFounder at Maxwell Health. “Sweet & Baker prioritizes providing the most innovative technology solutions to their clients, and we’re really excited to be a part of their total offering.”
About Sweet and Baker:
Sweet & Baker is a full service San Francisco-based insurance broker offering the sale and service of personal insurance, life and health insurance and commercial insurance products, including employee benefits insurance, technology, and workers compensation insurance throughout the greater Bay Area and Silicon Valley in California. We were established in 1951 by Donald Sweet and Bruce Baker, both native San Franciscans. Our client services include an impartial assessment of benefit plans, a resource for statutory issues, renewal assessments, and ongoing support for enrollment, billing, administration and claim issues. Reported by PRWeb 3 hours ago.
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Experient Health Explains Long Term Care Insurance In Blog Series
A recent survey from the Employee Benefit Research Institute revealed that 22 percent of companies offer long-term care insurance to their employees.
Richmond, VA (PRWEB) June 17, 2014
No one wants to think about aging and growing old. But the realities, and potential long-term care costs, aren't going away.
So what is long-term care?
Experient Health answers that and other details about long-term care insurance in its latest blog series on the various types of insurance families and individuals can purchase and employers can offer.
"Long-term care (LTC) refers to a wide array of medical care, personal assistance and social support services for people who are physically or mentally unable to independently care for themselves for an extended period," wrote Experient Health, the health insurance arm of the Virginia Farm Bureau, based in Richmond, Va. "This care can be provided in a nursing home, an assisted living facility or in one’s home. Individuals needing LTC require assistance performing basic activities for daily living or suffer from severe cognitive impairment. Generally, the disabilities requiring LTC are caused by accidents, illnesses or advanced age."
To combat the high costs of long-term care, LTC insurance protects individuals against incurring large out-of-pocket expenses in the future by paying affordable monthly premiums now. The two different types of long-term care insurance policies available include individual long-term care insurance and group long-term care insurance.
"Individual policies are generally purchased by people whose employers do not offer a group policy, or by those who feel that they need to supplement their employer’s policy to obtain the most coverage possible," Experient Health wrote. "If employers and associations offer long-term care insurance to employees in the form of a group long-term care insurance policy, the policy may not offer the same level of protection afforded by individual long-term care insurance policies."
Although long-term care insurance evolved from income disability insurance, major medical insurance or disability insurance does not protect a policyholder in the same way.
Unlike a health plan that may cover 30 days of recuperative time, a long-term plan will cover two years or more. Beyond that, disability insurance replaces only salary at the time of the injury, and does not cover the cost of care. The policyholder would then have to pay out-of-pocket for any ongoing long-term medical care due to his or her accident or injury.
To read more about Medicare coverage of long-term care expenses, how long-term care insurance policies are designed, tax implications and how carriers offer inflation protection, visit the Experient Health blog here.
For more information on long-term care insurance, access America’s Health Insurance Plans’ Guide to Long-term Insurance.
Group long-term care insurance may not be the right choice for all employers. Contact an Experient Health representative for more information.
"We welcome the opportunity to help your organization examine its plan design(s) and make recommendations for improvement," Experient Health wrote. Reported by PRWeb 3 hours ago.
Richmond, VA (PRWEB) June 17, 2014
No one wants to think about aging and growing old. But the realities, and potential long-term care costs, aren't going away.
So what is long-term care?
Experient Health answers that and other details about long-term care insurance in its latest blog series on the various types of insurance families and individuals can purchase and employers can offer.
"Long-term care (LTC) refers to a wide array of medical care, personal assistance and social support services for people who are physically or mentally unable to independently care for themselves for an extended period," wrote Experient Health, the health insurance arm of the Virginia Farm Bureau, based in Richmond, Va. "This care can be provided in a nursing home, an assisted living facility or in one’s home. Individuals needing LTC require assistance performing basic activities for daily living or suffer from severe cognitive impairment. Generally, the disabilities requiring LTC are caused by accidents, illnesses or advanced age."
To combat the high costs of long-term care, LTC insurance protects individuals against incurring large out-of-pocket expenses in the future by paying affordable monthly premiums now. The two different types of long-term care insurance policies available include individual long-term care insurance and group long-term care insurance.
"Individual policies are generally purchased by people whose employers do not offer a group policy, or by those who feel that they need to supplement their employer’s policy to obtain the most coverage possible," Experient Health wrote. "If employers and associations offer long-term care insurance to employees in the form of a group long-term care insurance policy, the policy may not offer the same level of protection afforded by individual long-term care insurance policies."
Although long-term care insurance evolved from income disability insurance, major medical insurance or disability insurance does not protect a policyholder in the same way.
Unlike a health plan that may cover 30 days of recuperative time, a long-term plan will cover two years or more. Beyond that, disability insurance replaces only salary at the time of the injury, and does not cover the cost of care. The policyholder would then have to pay out-of-pocket for any ongoing long-term medical care due to his or her accident or injury.
To read more about Medicare coverage of long-term care expenses, how long-term care insurance policies are designed, tax implications and how carriers offer inflation protection, visit the Experient Health blog here.
For more information on long-term care insurance, access America’s Health Insurance Plans’ Guide to Long-term Insurance.
Group long-term care insurance may not be the right choice for all employers. Contact an Experient Health representative for more information.
"We welcome the opportunity to help your organization examine its plan design(s) and make recommendations for improvement," Experient Health wrote. Reported by PRWeb 3 hours ago.
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Mesothelioma Compensation Center Updates Diagnosed Victims And Their Family On How To Have A Plan In Place Along The Line Of Those Suggested By The NIH-Because It's Vital
As of June 1st the Mesothelioma Compensation Center is updating diagnosed victims of mesothelioma with recent information from the National Institute for Health focused on planning ahead for legal, financial, and medical needs before and emergency, because this information is vital. The Center would like all diagnosed victims or family members of a victim to call them at 866-714-6466 for instant access to the nation's most skilled mesothelioma compensation attorneys, not only because these extremely capable lawyers consistently get the best financial compensation for their clients, but because they are also methodical in making certain the victim and their family have their legal and financial house in order. http://MesotheliomaCompensationCenter.Com
(PRWEB) June 17, 2014
The Mesothelioma Compensation Center says, "We successfully help diagnosed victims of mesothelioma get to the nation's best compensation attorneys each week because we know the most experienced mesothelioma lawyers get the best settlements for their clients. Each week we also get the horror stories about the family mistakenly hiring a local personal injury attorney who had no clue of what they were doing, or stories about what happens if a diagnosed victim of this rare form of cancer had no plan.
"As we would like to explain with one call to 866-714-6466, it's not just the quality of the mesothelioma attorney that matters, we'd also like to explain the mesothelioma attorneys we suggest will also instantly know what needs to be in place to best protect the diagnosed victim and their family. We found an incredibly helpful article from the National Institute on Aging, and the NIH that is extremely relevant for diagnosed victims and their family members."
According to the National Institute on Aging and the National Institutes of Health,"Plan Ahead for Legal, Financial, and Medical Needs Before an Emergency: "No one ever plans to be sick or disabled. But being prepared for all kinds of health situations can make all the difference in an emergency. Here’s what you can do now to be ready:· Put your important papers and copies of legal documents in one place. Check regularly to see if there’s anything new to add, and learn more about what counts as an important paper. If you live at a distance from your loved one and want to help, here is some advice for long-distance caregivers about how to get started organizing this paperwork.
· Tell a trusted family member, friend, or lawyer where you put all your important papers.
· Give consent in advance for your doctor or lawyer to talk with your caregiver as needed. There may be questions about your care, a bill, or a health insurance claim. Without your consent, your caregiver may not be able to get needed information. You can give your okay in advance to Medicare, a credit card company, your bank, or your doctor. You may need to sign and return a form.
"There are many different types of legal documents that can help you plan how your affairs will be handled in the future. Many of these documents have names that sound alike, so make sure you are getting the documents you want. Also, state laws do vary, so find out about the rules, requirements, and forms used in your State."
http://blog.usa.gov/post/84434405058/plan-ahead-for-legal-financial-and-medical-needs
Information About Mesothelioma From The Mesothelioma Compensation Center For Diagnosed Victims And Their Families:
High-risk groups for exposure to asbestos include: the US Navy Veterans, shipyard workers, oil refinery workers, manufacturing workers, plumbers, electricians, auto mechanics, machinists, or construction workers. Typically the exposure to asbestos occurred in the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, or 1980s.
US Navy Veterans account for a significant portion of all diagnosed victims of mesothelioma each year. According to the US Centers for Disease Control the average age for a diagnosed victim of mesothelioma is 72 years old. Each year between 2,500 and 3,000 US citizens will be diagnosed with mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is attributable to exposure to asbestos.
According to the CDC the states with the highest incidence of mesothelioma include: Pennsylvania, Maine, New Jersey, West Virginia, Florida, Wyoming, and Washington. However, based on the calls the Mesothelioma Compensation Center receives diagnosed victims could be in any state including: California, New York, Texas, Massachusetts, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Missouri, Ohio, Michigan, Iowa, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, Montana, Nebraska, Kansas, Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, Idaho, Oregon, Hawaii, or Alaska.
The Mesothelioma Compensation Center says, “If you call us at 866-714-6466, we will see to it that you have on the spot access to the nation’s most skilled mesothelioma attorneys, because these incredibly skilled legal experts consistently get the best financial compensation results for their clients on a nationwide basis." http://MesotheliomaCompensationCenter.Com
For more information about a rare form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos called mesothelioma, please visit the US Centers For Disease Control's website: http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5815a3.htm Reported by PRWeb 3 hours ago.
(PRWEB) June 17, 2014
The Mesothelioma Compensation Center says, "We successfully help diagnosed victims of mesothelioma get to the nation's best compensation attorneys each week because we know the most experienced mesothelioma lawyers get the best settlements for their clients. Each week we also get the horror stories about the family mistakenly hiring a local personal injury attorney who had no clue of what they were doing, or stories about what happens if a diagnosed victim of this rare form of cancer had no plan.
"As we would like to explain with one call to 866-714-6466, it's not just the quality of the mesothelioma attorney that matters, we'd also like to explain the mesothelioma attorneys we suggest will also instantly know what needs to be in place to best protect the diagnosed victim and their family. We found an incredibly helpful article from the National Institute on Aging, and the NIH that is extremely relevant for diagnosed victims and their family members."
According to the National Institute on Aging and the National Institutes of Health,"Plan Ahead for Legal, Financial, and Medical Needs Before an Emergency: "No one ever plans to be sick or disabled. But being prepared for all kinds of health situations can make all the difference in an emergency. Here’s what you can do now to be ready:· Put your important papers and copies of legal documents in one place. Check regularly to see if there’s anything new to add, and learn more about what counts as an important paper. If you live at a distance from your loved one and want to help, here is some advice for long-distance caregivers about how to get started organizing this paperwork.
· Tell a trusted family member, friend, or lawyer where you put all your important papers.
· Give consent in advance for your doctor or lawyer to talk with your caregiver as needed. There may be questions about your care, a bill, or a health insurance claim. Without your consent, your caregiver may not be able to get needed information. You can give your okay in advance to Medicare, a credit card company, your bank, or your doctor. You may need to sign and return a form.
"There are many different types of legal documents that can help you plan how your affairs will be handled in the future. Many of these documents have names that sound alike, so make sure you are getting the documents you want. Also, state laws do vary, so find out about the rules, requirements, and forms used in your State."
http://blog.usa.gov/post/84434405058/plan-ahead-for-legal-financial-and-medical-needs
Information About Mesothelioma From The Mesothelioma Compensation Center For Diagnosed Victims And Their Families:
High-risk groups for exposure to asbestos include: the US Navy Veterans, shipyard workers, oil refinery workers, manufacturing workers, plumbers, electricians, auto mechanics, machinists, or construction workers. Typically the exposure to asbestos occurred in the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, or 1980s.
US Navy Veterans account for a significant portion of all diagnosed victims of mesothelioma each year. According to the US Centers for Disease Control the average age for a diagnosed victim of mesothelioma is 72 years old. Each year between 2,500 and 3,000 US citizens will be diagnosed with mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is attributable to exposure to asbestos.
According to the CDC the states with the highest incidence of mesothelioma include: Pennsylvania, Maine, New Jersey, West Virginia, Florida, Wyoming, and Washington. However, based on the calls the Mesothelioma Compensation Center receives diagnosed victims could be in any state including: California, New York, Texas, Massachusetts, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Missouri, Ohio, Michigan, Iowa, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, Montana, Nebraska, Kansas, Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, Idaho, Oregon, Hawaii, or Alaska.
The Mesothelioma Compensation Center says, “If you call us at 866-714-6466, we will see to it that you have on the spot access to the nation’s most skilled mesothelioma attorneys, because these incredibly skilled legal experts consistently get the best financial compensation results for their clients on a nationwide basis." http://MesotheliomaCompensationCenter.Com
For more information about a rare form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos called mesothelioma, please visit the US Centers For Disease Control's website: http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5815a3.htm Reported by PRWeb 3 hours ago.
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Social services director plans to exit position
The head of the state's largest agency is leaving her post as Indiana teeters on crucial negotiations with the federal government over health insurance for the poor.
Reported by Journal Gazette 2 hours ago.
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5 Ways to Tell if You Are Ready to Retire Early
Filed under: Personal Finance, Early Retirement, Retirement Plans, Social Security, Saving*Marc Romanelli/Getty Images*
By Joe Udo
Early retirement sounds pretty good when you're stuck in a cubicle counting down the hours until the weekend. If you don't enjoy your job anymore and are looking forward to spending more time pursuing your own agenda, early retirement can be ideal. The challenge is that you need to save up for it and make that money last for several decades. Here are the financial milestones you should achieve before taking early retirement:
You have retirement cash flow. You need to calculate how much income you will have after leaving your job. Social Security benefits typically can't be started until age 62 at the earliest. If you retire before that, you will need income from somewhere else. You can withdraw from your 401(k) or Roth IRA, but you need to decide how much to withdraw per year and make sure you don't deplete your retirement fund too quickly.
Get into the habit of tracking your cash flow while you're working, and practice living on your retirement budget for 12 months. It's even more important to control your spending in retirement because you'll have a fixed income. Monitoring your spending will allow you to understand where your money is going and help control lifestyle inflation as the years go by.
*You know how your expenses will change.* Certain expenses can be eliminated when you retire such as commuting costs. But some retirees end up spending more money annually after they quit working. Many people want to travel now that they have the time, and that will significantly increase your expenses unless you travel creatively. Other people spend money on hobbies they have been putting off for many years. A retirement budget needs to take into account all the activities that you would like to do as well as the usual bills.
*You have retirement health insurance.* Medicare won't kick in until you're 65, and you'll need to fund your own healthcare until then. You can keep your employer-sponsored health insurance for up to 18 months under COBRA, but you will probably have to pay a lot more than you used to while working. If your spouse is still working, then it's usually a much more affordable option to get coverage though his or her employer. The Affordable Care Act provides another option for early retirees, and you can shop for health insurance at your state's health insurance exchange. After retirement, your income will probably be lower, so you might qualify for tax credits to help cover the premiums. However, health insurance isn't cheap, and you might get sticker shock if you don't do your research before retiring.*You have no debt.* If you have consumer debt, then you're probably not ready to retire early. It's also a good idea to pay off your mortgage before retirement so your monthly expenses will be reduced. Downsizing or relocating to a more affordable area can be a good option to reduce or get rid of a mortgage.
*You have adjusted your portfolio.* You need to make sure your asset allocation is properly targeted to meet your risk tolerance. Some early retirees have all their assets in stocks. That might be fine when you're still working because you can add money when the market is down. But that asset allocation probably needs to be adjusted after retirement. An early retiree also needs to be careful not to shift too much money into bonds because you need stocks for growth. When you're nearing retirement, reassess your risk tolerance and update your asset allocation accordingly.
*You have achieved financial freedom.* One way to estimate if you're ready for early retirement is to divide your investable assets by your annual expense. I call this the financial freedom ratio. If your financial freedom ratio is above 25, then you're in pretty good shape. You can use the 4 percent rule to withdraw from your portfolio, and chances are good that your money will last for 30 years or more. Of course, if you retire very early, then you probably need to be a bit more conservative and withdraw less until you're near 65, the normal retirement age.
If you have a healthy portfolio balance, no debt and a plan to deal with health care, then you might be ready to retire early. Try tracking your cash flow and living on your retirement budget for a while before pulling the plug. Once you retire, then you need to keep a good handle on your cash flow to make sure you don't overspend. Early retirement is a dream for many people, but it takes diligent saving and careful planning to make it real.
*Joe Udo* blogs at Retire By 40 where he writes about passive income, frugal living, retirement investing and the challenges of early retirement. He recently left his corporate job to be a stay at home dad and blogger and is having the time of his life.
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Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments Reported by DailyFinance 22 minutes ago.
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Summer Conditions Pose Extreme Risks for Pets
Pets Best urges pet owners to protect animals against heat stroke, hiking injuries and other dangers.
Boise, Idaho (PRWEB) June 17, 2014
With dogs and cats often exposed to a wide range of elements during the hot summer months, Pets Best Insurance Services, LLC (Pets Best), seeks to raise awareness about common summertime hazards in an effort to help pet owners protect their four-legged family members from painful and potentially deadly mishaps.
Each summer, Pets Best, a leading U.S. pet insurance agency based in Boise, Idaho, processes a significant number of insurance claims related to a variety of veterinary emergencies.
“Dogs and cats are vulnerable to many of the same summertime risks as humans, including heat stroke and accidents from adventuring outdoors,” said Dr. Jack Stephens, president and founder of Pets Best. “Emergencies can strike at any time, which is why it is important for pet owners to consider the many benefits of obtaining health insurance for their pets. By offering financial protection against expensive veterinary procedures, pet insurance provides peace of mind to a growing number of pet parents across the nation.”
In an effort to help keep dogs and cats safe and healthy this summer, Pets Best has compiled the following list of five summertime hazards for pets.
1. Heat Stroke
Heat stroke occurs when body temperatures rise to dangerous levels and pets are unable to accommodate the excessive heat, leading to organ dysfunction and death in some cases.
Short-nosed breeds have the highest risk of suffering from heat stroke. This includes English bulldogs, pugs, French bulldogs, Boston terriers and Persian cats. Long-haired pets such as Great Pyrenees, chows, Alaskan malamutes and other cold-weather breeds are also at a high risk for overheating.
To prevent dogs and cats from experiencing heat stroke, pet owners should keep their animals in the shade when outdoors, avoid exercising pets in high temperatures, and provide indoor pets with ventilation and cool water. Pet owners should never leave their animals inside cars as the temperature can reach deadly levels within minutes. Pets should be taken to a veterinarian immediately if they experience symptoms of heat stroke, including lethargy, labored breathing and unresponsiveness.
2. Water Safety
Although many canines are strong swimmers, they should always be closely supervised and wear life jackets when their owners take them for a summer swim. Dogs are vulnerable to many dangers in and around bodies of water, including drowning, being struck by boats, swallowing fishhooks and exposure to Leptospira, a potentially deadly pathogen found within some lakes and ponds.
Pets Best recently processed a claim for an English bulldog puppy named BooBoo who nearly drowned after falling into his owner’s pool. BooBoo was found unconscious on the pool floor, but he recovered after an emergency visit to the veterinarian.
“For dog owners with pools, I always suggest training their dogs to find the shallow end of the pool or the stairs so they can exit the pool safely. This is important regardless of whether you plan to let your dogs swim in the pool," Dr. Stephens said. "Even dogs that are good swimmers or wearing life jackets can tire quickly and be put in danger if they can’t find their way out of the pool.”
3. Hiking Injuries
Taking pets hiking is a great opportunity for exercise, but it is important to be aware of potential dangers pets face in the wild, including sprained muscles, broken bones and attacks by wild animals.
Pets Best has processed many pet insurance claims for dogs attacked by snakes and other wild animals, including porcupines and skunks. These include claims for a Newfoundland named Josephine who has been attacked by porcupines three separate times, resulting in emergency veterinary examinations and procedures to remove the quills.
To help prevent such injuries during hiking trips, pet owners should keep dogs leashed so they can’t chase wildlife. It is also a good idea to carry a first-aid kit with items including a tourniquet, Neosporin, Benadryl for allergic reactions, a chemical ice pack, tape and bandage material.
4. Burned Paw Pads
The summer sunshine can raise the temperature of asphalt roads to a dangerous degree, even when the temperature outdoors feels pleasant. If the asphalt or sidewalk is too hot for people to walk on barefoot, it is also too hot for dogs and cats.
If pet owners must walk their pets on asphalt during the summer, they should remain in shaded areas. People can also carry their pets to grass or dirt areas, or purchase boots to protect animals’ paw pads from painful blistering.
5. Ear Infections
Ear infections are a common summertime ailment among dogs that swim frequently. These infections are often caused by water entering dogs’ ears while swimming. Pet owners can help prevent this by utilizing an ear cleanser prescribed by a veterinarian to clean and dry a dog’s ears after swimming.
While dogs and cats can experience a broad range of summer-related emergencies, Pets Best offers coverage for a variety of health issues, including all of the conditions above. Pets Best offers a number of pet insurance plans, including the BestBenefit plan, which covers the diagnosis and treatment of hundreds of accidents and illnesses. For pet owners who are more concerned about injuries, the Accident Only Plan covers the treatment of accidents, including examinations, X-rays, hospitalizations and medications. For more information about Pets Best, visit http://www.petsbest.com.
About Pets Best Insurance Services, LLC
Dr. Jack L. Stephens, president of Pets Best, founded pet insurance in the U.S. in 1981 with a mission to end euthanasia when pet owners couldn’t afford veterinary treatment. Dr. Stephens went on to present the first U.S. pet insurance policy to famous television dog Lassie. Pets Best provides coverage for dogs and cats and is the only veterinarian founded and operated pet insurance agency in the United States. Dr. Stephens leads the Pets Best team with his passion for quality pet care and his expert veterinary knowledge. He is always available to answer questions regarding veterinary medicine, pet health and pet insurance. The Pets Best team is a group of pet lovers who strive to deliver quality customer service and value. Visit http://www.petsbest.com for more information.
Pet insurance coverage offered and administered by Pets Best Insurance Services, LLC is underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company, a Delaware insurance company. Independence American Insurance Company is a member of The IHC Group, an organization of insurance carriers and marketing and administrative affiliates that has been providing life, health, disability, medical stop-loss and specialty insurance solutions to groups and individuals for over 30 years. For information on The IHC Group, visit: http://www.ihcgroup.com. Additional insurance services administered by Pets Best Insurance Services, LLC are underwritten by Prime Insurance Company. Some existing business is underwritten by Aetna Insurance Company of Connecticut. Each insurer has sole financial responsibility for its own products.
Pets Best is a proud member of the North America Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA).
### Reported by PRWeb 22 hours ago.
Boise, Idaho (PRWEB) June 17, 2014
With dogs and cats often exposed to a wide range of elements during the hot summer months, Pets Best Insurance Services, LLC (Pets Best), seeks to raise awareness about common summertime hazards in an effort to help pet owners protect their four-legged family members from painful and potentially deadly mishaps.
Each summer, Pets Best, a leading U.S. pet insurance agency based in Boise, Idaho, processes a significant number of insurance claims related to a variety of veterinary emergencies.
“Dogs and cats are vulnerable to many of the same summertime risks as humans, including heat stroke and accidents from adventuring outdoors,” said Dr. Jack Stephens, president and founder of Pets Best. “Emergencies can strike at any time, which is why it is important for pet owners to consider the many benefits of obtaining health insurance for their pets. By offering financial protection against expensive veterinary procedures, pet insurance provides peace of mind to a growing number of pet parents across the nation.”
In an effort to help keep dogs and cats safe and healthy this summer, Pets Best has compiled the following list of five summertime hazards for pets.
1. Heat Stroke
Heat stroke occurs when body temperatures rise to dangerous levels and pets are unable to accommodate the excessive heat, leading to organ dysfunction and death in some cases.
Short-nosed breeds have the highest risk of suffering from heat stroke. This includes English bulldogs, pugs, French bulldogs, Boston terriers and Persian cats. Long-haired pets such as Great Pyrenees, chows, Alaskan malamutes and other cold-weather breeds are also at a high risk for overheating.
To prevent dogs and cats from experiencing heat stroke, pet owners should keep their animals in the shade when outdoors, avoid exercising pets in high temperatures, and provide indoor pets with ventilation and cool water. Pet owners should never leave their animals inside cars as the temperature can reach deadly levels within minutes. Pets should be taken to a veterinarian immediately if they experience symptoms of heat stroke, including lethargy, labored breathing and unresponsiveness.
2. Water Safety
Although many canines are strong swimmers, they should always be closely supervised and wear life jackets when their owners take them for a summer swim. Dogs are vulnerable to many dangers in and around bodies of water, including drowning, being struck by boats, swallowing fishhooks and exposure to Leptospira, a potentially deadly pathogen found within some lakes and ponds.
Pets Best recently processed a claim for an English bulldog puppy named BooBoo who nearly drowned after falling into his owner’s pool. BooBoo was found unconscious on the pool floor, but he recovered after an emergency visit to the veterinarian.
“For dog owners with pools, I always suggest training their dogs to find the shallow end of the pool or the stairs so they can exit the pool safely. This is important regardless of whether you plan to let your dogs swim in the pool," Dr. Stephens said. "Even dogs that are good swimmers or wearing life jackets can tire quickly and be put in danger if they can’t find their way out of the pool.”
3. Hiking Injuries
Taking pets hiking is a great opportunity for exercise, but it is important to be aware of potential dangers pets face in the wild, including sprained muscles, broken bones and attacks by wild animals.
Pets Best has processed many pet insurance claims for dogs attacked by snakes and other wild animals, including porcupines and skunks. These include claims for a Newfoundland named Josephine who has been attacked by porcupines three separate times, resulting in emergency veterinary examinations and procedures to remove the quills.
To help prevent such injuries during hiking trips, pet owners should keep dogs leashed so they can’t chase wildlife. It is also a good idea to carry a first-aid kit with items including a tourniquet, Neosporin, Benadryl for allergic reactions, a chemical ice pack, tape and bandage material.
4. Burned Paw Pads
The summer sunshine can raise the temperature of asphalt roads to a dangerous degree, even when the temperature outdoors feels pleasant. If the asphalt or sidewalk is too hot for people to walk on barefoot, it is also too hot for dogs and cats.
If pet owners must walk their pets on asphalt during the summer, they should remain in shaded areas. People can also carry their pets to grass or dirt areas, or purchase boots to protect animals’ paw pads from painful blistering.
5. Ear Infections
Ear infections are a common summertime ailment among dogs that swim frequently. These infections are often caused by water entering dogs’ ears while swimming. Pet owners can help prevent this by utilizing an ear cleanser prescribed by a veterinarian to clean and dry a dog’s ears after swimming.
While dogs and cats can experience a broad range of summer-related emergencies, Pets Best offers coverage for a variety of health issues, including all of the conditions above. Pets Best offers a number of pet insurance plans, including the BestBenefit plan, which covers the diagnosis and treatment of hundreds of accidents and illnesses. For pet owners who are more concerned about injuries, the Accident Only Plan covers the treatment of accidents, including examinations, X-rays, hospitalizations and medications. For more information about Pets Best, visit http://www.petsbest.com.
About Pets Best Insurance Services, LLC
Dr. Jack L. Stephens, president of Pets Best, founded pet insurance in the U.S. in 1981 with a mission to end euthanasia when pet owners couldn’t afford veterinary treatment. Dr. Stephens went on to present the first U.S. pet insurance policy to famous television dog Lassie. Pets Best provides coverage for dogs and cats and is the only veterinarian founded and operated pet insurance agency in the United States. Dr. Stephens leads the Pets Best team with his passion for quality pet care and his expert veterinary knowledge. He is always available to answer questions regarding veterinary medicine, pet health and pet insurance. The Pets Best team is a group of pet lovers who strive to deliver quality customer service and value. Visit http://www.petsbest.com for more information.
Pet insurance coverage offered and administered by Pets Best Insurance Services, LLC is underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company, a Delaware insurance company. Independence American Insurance Company is a member of The IHC Group, an organization of insurance carriers and marketing and administrative affiliates that has been providing life, health, disability, medical stop-loss and specialty insurance solutions to groups and individuals for over 30 years. For information on The IHC Group, visit: http://www.ihcgroup.com. Additional insurance services administered by Pets Best Insurance Services, LLC are underwritten by Prime Insurance Company. Some existing business is underwritten by Aetna Insurance Company of Connecticut. Each insurer has sole financial responsibility for its own products.
Pets Best is a proud member of the North America Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA).
### Reported by PRWeb 22 hours ago.
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CDPHP Launches Summer Days, Healthy Ways
CDPHP offers tips and tricks for enjoying a fun and healthy summer.
Albany, NY (PRWEB) June 17, 2014
Need a little inspiration for summertime health? We’ve got the answer. From the best local hiking spots to garden-fresh recipes, we have something for everyone looking to stay healthy in the heat.
Summer Days, Healthy Ways is a no cost program inspired by favorite summer pastimes. It also provides fresh ideas for those looking to put healthy spins on sunny day activities.
Participants can sign up online to receive weekly emails that are in tune with the summer season.
CDPHP membership is not needed to enjoy Summer Days, Healthy Ways. Sign up today for great summer tips and tricks including:· Outdoor activities,
· Picnic dishes,
· Fun summer events,
· Gardening and garden-fresh recipes,
· Local hiking locations,
· And many more.
About CDPHP®
Established in 1984, CDPHP is a physician-founded, member-focused and community-based not-for-profit health plan that offers high-quality and affordable health insurance plans to members in 24 counties throughout New York. CDPHP is also on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Pinterest.
### Reported by PRWeb 19 hours ago.
Albany, NY (PRWEB) June 17, 2014
Need a little inspiration for summertime health? We’ve got the answer. From the best local hiking spots to garden-fresh recipes, we have something for everyone looking to stay healthy in the heat.
Summer Days, Healthy Ways is a no cost program inspired by favorite summer pastimes. It also provides fresh ideas for those looking to put healthy spins on sunny day activities.
Participants can sign up online to receive weekly emails that are in tune with the summer season.
CDPHP membership is not needed to enjoy Summer Days, Healthy Ways. Sign up today for great summer tips and tricks including:· Outdoor activities,
· Picnic dishes,
· Fun summer events,
· Gardening and garden-fresh recipes,
· Local hiking locations,
· And many more.
About CDPHP®
Established in 1984, CDPHP is a physician-founded, member-focused and community-based not-for-profit health plan that offers high-quality and affordable health insurance plans to members in 24 counties throughout New York. CDPHP is also on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Pinterest.
### Reported by PRWeb 19 hours ago.
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Snoring May Be Early Sign of Future Health Risks
Here’s a wake-up call for snorers: Snoring may put you at a greater risk than those who are overweight, smoke or have high cholesterol to have thickening or abnormalities in the carotid artery, according to a study published by researchers at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit.
(PRWEB) June 17, 2014
Here’s a wake-up call for snorers: Snoring may put you at a greater risk than those who are overweight, smoke or have high cholesterol to have thickening or abnormalities in the carotid artery, according to a study published by researchers at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit.
The increased thickening in the lining of the two large blood vessels that supply the brain with oxygenated blood is a precursor to atherosclerosis, a hardening of the arteries responsible for many vascular diseases.
“Snoring is more than a bedtime annoyance and it shouldn’t be ignored. Patients need to seek treatment in the same way they would if they had sleep apnea, high blood pressure or other risk factors for cardiovascular disease,” says lead study author Robert Deeb, M.D., with the Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery at Henry Ford.
“Our study adds to the growing body of evidence suggesting that isolated snoring may not be as benign as first suspected. So instead of kicking your snoring bed partner out of the room or spending sleepless nights elbowing him or her, seek out medical treatment for the snorer.”
The study reveals changes in the carotid artery with snorers – even for those without sleep apnea – likely due to the trauma and subsequent inflammation caused by the vibrations of snoring.
Study results are published in the June issue of The Laryngoscope journal and the article is available online at http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/lary.24527/full.
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) – a sleep disorder that occurs due to the collapse of the airway in the throat during sleep and causes loud snoring and periodic pauses in breathing – has long been linked to cardiovascular disease, along with a host of other serious health issues.
But the risk for cardiovascular disease may actually begin with snoring, long before it becomes OSA. Until now, there was little evidence in humans to show a similar connection between snoring and cardiovascular risk.
For the Henry Ford study, Dr. Deeb and senior study author Kathleen Yaremchuk, M.D., reviewed data for 913 patients who had been evaluated by the institution’s sleep center.
Patients, ages 18-50, who had participated in a diagnostic sleep study between December 2006 and January 2012 were included in the study. None of the participants had sleep apnea.
In all, 54 patients completed the snore outcomes survey regarding their snoring habits, as well as underwent a carotid artery duplex ultrasound to measure the intima-media thickness of the carotid arteries.
Carotid intima-media thickness, a measurement of the thickness of the innermost two layers of the arterial wall, may be used to detect the presence and to track the progression of atherosclerotic disease. Intima-media thickness is the first sign of carotid artery disease.
Compared to non-snorers, snorers were found to have a significantly greater intima-media thickness of the carotid arteries, the study finds.
The study also revealed no statistically significant differences in intima-media thickness for patients with or without some of the traditional risk factors for cardiovascular disease – smoking, diabetes, hypertension or hypercholesterolemia.
“Snoring is generally regarded as a cosmetic issue by health insurance, requiring significant out-of-pocket expenses by patients. We’re hoping to change that thinking so patients can get the early treatment they need, before more serious health issues arise.”
The Henry Ford research team plans to conduct another long-term study on this topic, particularly to determine if there’s an increased incidence of cardiovascular events in patients who snore.
Along with Drs. Deeb and Yaremchuk, Henry Ford study co-authors are Paul Judge, M.D.; Ed Peterson, Ph.D.; and Judith C. Lin, M.D. Reported by PRWeb 18 hours ago.
(PRWEB) June 17, 2014
Here’s a wake-up call for snorers: Snoring may put you at a greater risk than those who are overweight, smoke or have high cholesterol to have thickening or abnormalities in the carotid artery, according to a study published by researchers at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit.
The increased thickening in the lining of the two large blood vessels that supply the brain with oxygenated blood is a precursor to atherosclerosis, a hardening of the arteries responsible for many vascular diseases.
“Snoring is more than a bedtime annoyance and it shouldn’t be ignored. Patients need to seek treatment in the same way they would if they had sleep apnea, high blood pressure or other risk factors for cardiovascular disease,” says lead study author Robert Deeb, M.D., with the Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery at Henry Ford.
“Our study adds to the growing body of evidence suggesting that isolated snoring may not be as benign as first suspected. So instead of kicking your snoring bed partner out of the room or spending sleepless nights elbowing him or her, seek out medical treatment for the snorer.”
The study reveals changes in the carotid artery with snorers – even for those without sleep apnea – likely due to the trauma and subsequent inflammation caused by the vibrations of snoring.
Study results are published in the June issue of The Laryngoscope journal and the article is available online at http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/lary.24527/full.
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) – a sleep disorder that occurs due to the collapse of the airway in the throat during sleep and causes loud snoring and periodic pauses in breathing – has long been linked to cardiovascular disease, along with a host of other serious health issues.
But the risk for cardiovascular disease may actually begin with snoring, long before it becomes OSA. Until now, there was little evidence in humans to show a similar connection between snoring and cardiovascular risk.
For the Henry Ford study, Dr. Deeb and senior study author Kathleen Yaremchuk, M.D., reviewed data for 913 patients who had been evaluated by the institution’s sleep center.
Patients, ages 18-50, who had participated in a diagnostic sleep study between December 2006 and January 2012 were included in the study. None of the participants had sleep apnea.
In all, 54 patients completed the snore outcomes survey regarding their snoring habits, as well as underwent a carotid artery duplex ultrasound to measure the intima-media thickness of the carotid arteries.
Carotid intima-media thickness, a measurement of the thickness of the innermost two layers of the arterial wall, may be used to detect the presence and to track the progression of atherosclerotic disease. Intima-media thickness is the first sign of carotid artery disease.
Compared to non-snorers, snorers were found to have a significantly greater intima-media thickness of the carotid arteries, the study finds.
The study also revealed no statistically significant differences in intima-media thickness for patients with or without some of the traditional risk factors for cardiovascular disease – smoking, diabetes, hypertension or hypercholesterolemia.
“Snoring is generally regarded as a cosmetic issue by health insurance, requiring significant out-of-pocket expenses by patients. We’re hoping to change that thinking so patients can get the early treatment they need, before more serious health issues arise.”
The Henry Ford research team plans to conduct another long-term study on this topic, particularly to determine if there’s an increased incidence of cardiovascular events in patients who snore.
Along with Drs. Deeb and Yaremchuk, Henry Ford study co-authors are Paul Judge, M.D.; Ed Peterson, Ph.D.; and Judith C. Lin, M.D. Reported by PRWeb 18 hours ago.
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New Medical Association Forms to Promote and Organize Direct Primary Care Practice Model
“DPC United” Will Educate Healthcare System and Rest of Nation on Benefits of Direct Primary Care
Las Vegas, NV (PRWEB) June 17, 2014
A new model of healthcare rapidly gaining popularity, Direct Primary Care (DPC), now has a formal medical association. The association, DPC United, founded by a group of pioneering physicians with DPC practices of their own, created the organization to promote the innovative DPC practice model to the nation.
“Direct Primary Care is one of the most exciting trends in healthcare today, and it has the true potential to solve many of our country’s healthcare problems,” says Dr. Samir Qamar, DPC United’s Chairman and CEO of the nation’s largest Direct Primary Care physician group, MedLion Management, Inc. “It was time to create a guiding light for doctors and consumers interested in this promising healthcare model.”
The Direct Primary Care practice model is one where primary care doctors, such as family physicians and general internists, contract directly with consumers and businesses for very low fees, making health insurance unnecessary for commonly-used primary care. Health insurance is then used like most insurance plans, just for major expenses. The combination, also explained in the new Affordable Care Act, results in dramatic savings for consumers, along with services like telemedicine and shorter waits. Industry experts are quick to point out that DPC is neither health insurance, nor the pricier “concierge medicine” practice model. Several states, including Washington and Louisiana, have introduced legislation to support Direct Primary Care.
Attorney Michael McClelland, DPC United’s Executive Director and former Chief Prosecutor of California State Department of Managed Health Care, says it was time to form guiding principles to create an accepted standard for the DPC practice model. “The appeal of the DPC model is very strong from both practice and business perspectives. One of the organization’s goals is to ensure that practices endorsed by DPC United are properly set up as DPC practices to create consumer confidence.”
DPC United’s website, DPCUnited.org, features an online directory of established Direct Primary Care practices from across the nation, along with informational resources for consumers and doctors alike. A special section for press inquiries makes it easier for members of the media to reach industry leaders. According to officials, the online database will be updated weekly, creating the first such official listing of Direct Primary Care medical practices.
The nation’s largest primary care organization, the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), is an open supporter of the Direct Primary Care model, with a formal policy outlined on its official website. DPC Coalition, another DPC organization, focuses on Direct Primary Care policy and legislative advocacy. DPC United, in contrast, will provide resources for Direct Primary Care physicians and consumers.
Dr. Josh Umbehr, a DPC United Board Member and founder of Kansas-based Atlas MD, says, “Direct Primary Care has finally found traction with patients, physicians, employers, and insurance companies alike. However, DPC is still in its adolescence and it’s vital, now more than ever, that we have unity and clear leadership to guide the movement in the right direction.”
Primary care doctors and patients are encouraged to visit the website, learn more about Direct Primary Care, and spread the word to employers, friends, and healthcare workers.
“With Direct Primary Care, we can affect real, sustainable change at every level of healthcare. By repairing primary care, the foundation of a strong healthcare system, America can once again enjoy good health,” remarks Dr. Qamar. Reported by PRWeb 17 hours ago.
Las Vegas, NV (PRWEB) June 17, 2014
A new model of healthcare rapidly gaining popularity, Direct Primary Care (DPC), now has a formal medical association. The association, DPC United, founded by a group of pioneering physicians with DPC practices of their own, created the organization to promote the innovative DPC practice model to the nation.
“Direct Primary Care is one of the most exciting trends in healthcare today, and it has the true potential to solve many of our country’s healthcare problems,” says Dr. Samir Qamar, DPC United’s Chairman and CEO of the nation’s largest Direct Primary Care physician group, MedLion Management, Inc. “It was time to create a guiding light for doctors and consumers interested in this promising healthcare model.”
The Direct Primary Care practice model is one where primary care doctors, such as family physicians and general internists, contract directly with consumers and businesses for very low fees, making health insurance unnecessary for commonly-used primary care. Health insurance is then used like most insurance plans, just for major expenses. The combination, also explained in the new Affordable Care Act, results in dramatic savings for consumers, along with services like telemedicine and shorter waits. Industry experts are quick to point out that DPC is neither health insurance, nor the pricier “concierge medicine” practice model. Several states, including Washington and Louisiana, have introduced legislation to support Direct Primary Care.
Attorney Michael McClelland, DPC United’s Executive Director and former Chief Prosecutor of California State Department of Managed Health Care, says it was time to form guiding principles to create an accepted standard for the DPC practice model. “The appeal of the DPC model is very strong from both practice and business perspectives. One of the organization’s goals is to ensure that practices endorsed by DPC United are properly set up as DPC practices to create consumer confidence.”
DPC United’s website, DPCUnited.org, features an online directory of established Direct Primary Care practices from across the nation, along with informational resources for consumers and doctors alike. A special section for press inquiries makes it easier for members of the media to reach industry leaders. According to officials, the online database will be updated weekly, creating the first such official listing of Direct Primary Care medical practices.
The nation’s largest primary care organization, the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), is an open supporter of the Direct Primary Care model, with a formal policy outlined on its official website. DPC Coalition, another DPC organization, focuses on Direct Primary Care policy and legislative advocacy. DPC United, in contrast, will provide resources for Direct Primary Care physicians and consumers.
Dr. Josh Umbehr, a DPC United Board Member and founder of Kansas-based Atlas MD, says, “Direct Primary Care has finally found traction with patients, physicians, employers, and insurance companies alike. However, DPC is still in its adolescence and it’s vital, now more than ever, that we have unity and clear leadership to guide the movement in the right direction.”
Primary care doctors and patients are encouraged to visit the website, learn more about Direct Primary Care, and spread the word to employers, friends, and healthcare workers.
“With Direct Primary Care, we can affect real, sustainable change at every level of healthcare. By repairing primary care, the foundation of a strong healthcare system, America can once again enjoy good health,” remarks Dr. Qamar. Reported by PRWeb 17 hours ago.
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Young adults healthier after passage of Obamacare, study finds
Expanding the number of young adults with health insurance appears to have improved their health and saved them money, according to a new study that is among the first to measure the effect of the healthcare law that President Obama signed four years ago.
Reported by L.A. Times 16 hours ago.
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