Health Insurance Archives - Page 45 of 52

The Spike In Holiday Death Rates

It has been said that more deaths occur during the holidays, and statistics show this to be true. Different reasons account to why people die or get hurt during the holidays. Knowing these issues, especially the medical ones such as high cholesterol, obesity, and heart-related deaths, will help you survive. Several studies show people have a greater chance of dying on Christmas, the day after, or on New Year’s Day than on any other day of the year. Why do so many deaths occur? What can you do to protect yourself and loved ones?

Traveling

People travel for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s so they can spend time with their families and loved ones. In 2012 there were 764 crashes during Thanksgiving travel, and 654 crashes during Christmas that led to at least one fatality. There were also almost 50,000 non-fatal accidents during Thanksgiving that year as well. The reason for the accidents is due to everyone being in a rush to get to their destination, or people driving after drinking alcohol. Snowy and icy road conditions contribute to the number of accidents as well.

Roads and walkways get icy from the snow and below freezing temperatures during winter months. We have all taken a tumble at least once in our lives because of an icy driveway or sidewalk. Some are lucky to have gotten up okay, while others end up with injuries. Take precaution when walking in icy conditions. Throw down salt on your driveway and walkway as much as needed after a snowfall and below freezing temps in order to prevent falls and injuries.

Decorating

In 2015, 14,000 people had to go to the hospital for injuries that happened while decorating. Hanging decorations is the leading cause of injuries during the holiday season. Decorating on the roof of your home, or up high where a ladder is required is dangerous. Make sure to check your ladder before you use it, and have a family member of friend help you. Also, if you plan to decorate,try to limit alcohol consumption. Some people will have a drink or two while getting in the spirit of decorating, which increases the likelihood of an accident. This is because when alcohol is in our system, we are less cautious than we normally would be.

Another reason for deaths and injuries is what most people least expect to happen, a fire. Fires can start from Christmas trees, candles, and lights. Over 200 fires happen in a home from Christmas trees igniting, while over 6,000 fires occur from candles. A real Christmas tree can become too dry and cause a fire as well, so make sure it is fresh, and keep it away from heat sources. Make sure to check your lights for damage, and put out your candles before you go to sleep or leave the house. It is better to remember these little details in order to save your home, and more importantly your family’s lives.

Health Conditions

Stress, sodium, sweets, and alcohol all partake in the holidays. But, they also partake in worsening health conditions during the holidays. This is especially true for heart-related illnesses. Most heart attacks occur during the holidays than at any other time of the year. It begins during Thanksgiving and continues until after the new year. Why? You might have guessed it has something to do with all the food and stress. It does. People consume a lot of salt, and alcohol during the season which raises a person’s chance of a heart attack. The emotions and stress accompanied with the holidays can be too much on a person’s heart. Some people do not handle stress and depression well, and their heart takes a hit. We have all heard of dying from a broken heart. It is true, your emotions play a big role on your heart health.

*Many accidents and deaths occur during the holidays. Having insurance will help with medical bills and treatment.*

Other reasons of death include people forgetting their pills while traveling, or shoveling too much without taking breaks. A lot of times, people will hold off on seeking medical attention until after the holidays. They try not to make a fuss about their health issues while with their family during the holidays. Putting off any necessary medical attention will increase the chances of a serious condition worsening, or death.

Be Prepared

Make sure you are insured during the holiday season, because as studies have shown, you have a higher risk of getting hurt and ending up in the hospital during the holidays. Medical bills can add up quickly, and become very expensive. If you are not insured, or would like to seek better health insurance, EZ.Insure can help you find a plan, and set you up. We will provide you with quotes from the top carriers in your region so you don’t have to. We do all the work of researching, and comparing for you, for free! Get an instant quote by entering your zip code in the bar above. Or if you would like to speak to an agent, email [email protected], or call 888-350-1890. Be prepared this holiday season. De-stress as much as you can, and one way to do this is to make sure you are insured. We can provide this assurance. Stay safe and enjoy the holidays with peace of mind.

During The Holiday Rush, Remember To Stay Close To Family

The fall is the beginning of an extremely busy holiday season, bringing on holiday after holiday. The holidays are known as a time for giving presents, but more importantly, it is about family. Spending time with your family during the holidays is the true gift, especially when there is such a disconnect from them all year long. It is a time to reconnect with your family, and it gives you a lot of benefits, both emotionally and mentally. Your family accepts you despite your flaws, and they are the foundation of love and support.

*Take some time to remember your family during the holidays, Being close has so many benefits.*

Overall Well-Being

Many studies have shown that spending time with your family improves your overall self. It makes you happier, and healthier. Children will get better grades in school, and have higher self esteem because of the closeness they have with their family. Around the holidays, this is especially needed because it can be a stressful time for everyone. Parents deal with work related stress, while kids face school stress. Take the time to create quality time with each other, practice sharing, decorate cookies together, or ride through the neighborhood and look at all the lights. De-stress together and make the holidays a memorable one with each other. Presents are fun, but the memories we create together is what will last forever.

Talking with your parents or kids, and hugging them releases the feel good hormones in our bodies that reduces stress. The closer you are with your family, then the more you are able to cope and deal with a crisis.

A Strong Support System

Family loves you unconditionally, supports your dreams, and always has your back. Remember to lean on each other, especially during the holidays. Parents should interact with their kids, listen to their needs, and back their dreams. Uplifting each other will give all of you the confidence to achieve anything.

Start A Family Tradition

*Create a family traidition such as game night, volunteering, or a snowman competition.*

A family tradition is a great way to connect families together. As families evolve, grow, and multiply, having a tradition is a fun and easy way to engage together. A family tradition will be passed on, and will help instill family values, bonding, and love. It is never too late to begin a tradition if you have not begun one already. You can take your family to a soup kitchen and teach them the meaning of kindness and humility. Bake together, create a scavenger hunt, or family game nights. Something as small as these gestures will create a lifetime of happiness together.

Family provides unconditional love, and around the holidays, it is especially need it. It is a time to unwind from the stressors we deal with on a day to day basis. You can rely on each other, create traditions together, strengthen relationships, and become overall happier and healthier. What could be better? Take the time to create some memories with your family this season.

Flu Season Is Here, Should You Get The Shot?

As the colder months approach, viruses and sickness become prevalent and inevitable. One particular virus, influenza, also known as the flu, arises during these months. It is typically known as flu season. The flu is a respiratory infection that can cause complications, especially to young children, and seniors. This virus adapts to the flu vaccines that are produced every year, which is why a new flu shot is created every year. Knowing the pros and cons of the vaccine is important so you can determine if it is right for you and your family.

The flu has cold-like symptoms, but for some there are major complications. — *The flu has cold-like symptoms, but can have major complications.*

The flu shot is said to be effective against the flu illness by 40 to 60 percent of the time during flu season. It will work for some, and for some it will not. If you do receive the shot, and you still catch the flu, then the shot is said to at least reduce the severity of the symptoms.

Who Should Get It

The CDC states that people who should receive these vaccinations annually are those who will benefit from it most. Anyone from the age of 6 months and older are able to get the vaccination. If you are pregnant then the flu vaccine is important to avoid high risks from contracting the flu. Chronic medical conditions can increase your chances of the flu complications. Such chronic conditions include asthma, cancer, diabetes, obesity, kidney or liver disease, and COPD.

Who Should Not Get It

If you are allergic to eggs, then it would be wise not to get the flu shot. Most of the vaccines contain a small amount of egg protein in them. Also if you had a bad reaction to the flu vaccine before, then you should not get it again.

Why Do You Have To Get One Every Year?

Doctors encourage people to get the flu shot every year because the virus evolve quickly. Not only that, but if you receive the shot one year, the antibodies your body produces decline over time. So by the next year, those antibodies will not be able to fight the virus, which is why they advise you to get another shot.

*The flu shot can protect you from getting influenza during flu season.*

A lot of people think that once you receive the flu vaccine, that it will give you the flu. This is not true, but you can develop flu-like symptoms because your body’s reaction to it. It takes about 2 weeks for the shot to take effect so in that time frame, you may still catch the flu virus. And although the CDC suggests older people to get the shot, studies have shown different cases. Older people with weaker immune systems will have a lower protective immune response after the vaccine. A weakened immune system will increase the odds of getting the flu.

A record breaking number of kids died in the U.S. from the flu this year, a total of 110. As the season approaches, it is dire to either decide to give the vaccine to your family, or seek other ways to prevent it. Once a person catches the flu, monitor them, and take them to the doctor if symptoms do not improve.

Healthcare Mergers Continue, What This Means For Consumers

Healthcare boundaries have recently begun to blur, starting with CVS and Aetna merging, and continue to blur. Insurance companies, doctors, and hospitals have teamed up in order to cut costs due to the Republicans halting subsidy payments. The halt will cut some federal programs funding. Now, UnitedHealth has plans to buy a large physician group, DaVita. These mergers are an attempt to provide quality care for consumers at affordable lower costs.

Because Republicans halted subsidy payments, companies are beginning to merge. — *Because Republicans halted subsidy payments, companies are beginning to merge in order to save and provide quality care.*

First CVS and Aetna have plans to create “hubs” for customers to come in and receive care, which will result in better care at a lower cost. Now, joining the bandwagon, UnitedHealth’s Optum unit plans to merge with DaVita to do the same.

The Plan

UnitedHealth Optum manages pharmacy benefits and provides health services. The merge will now add more doctors to UnitedHealth’s existing 30,000 doctors, giving people more variety within their network.

DaVita is a for-profit organization that has chains of dialysis centers. They operate nearly 300 clinics that serve 1.7 million patients across six different states. The states are California, Florida, Colorado, Washington, New Mexico, and Nevada. They will add to UnitedHealth’s 250 Med Express urgent care centers and 200 surgical centers.

“I am so proud of the DaVita Medical Group accomplishments, including our excellent clinical outcomes,” said Kent Thiry, DaVita chairman and CEO. “The combination of DaVita Medical Group and Optum should lead to even higher levels of performance.”

In a statement, Larry C. Renfo, Optum’s chief executive said “Combining DaVita Medical Group and Optum advances our shared goal of supporting physicians in delivering exceptional patient care in innovative and efficient ways.”

*The merge between UnitedHealth and DaVita is hopeful for the future of healthcare costs and care.*

When This Will Happen

The $49 billion merge is expected to close next year. The goal is to offer clinics that give a lot of the same care an emergency room at much lower rates. They will offer nearly 50 percent cheaper costs for procedures such as outpatient surgery.

Other industries are taking note of UnitedHealth Optum’s move, making it appealing for them to create a design of their own possible merge. As insurance companies, doctors, hospitals, and pharmacies begin to unite, it seems that not only will they benefit, but consumers as well. Healthcare lines continue to blue with these mergers. If all goes accordingly, then consumers will be offered a large range of doctors, and quality care at almost half the costs.

Insurance Company Offer Discounts to Vegans

Veganism has become a mainstream lifestyle and has been becoming more popular within the last couple of years. There are many health benefits to becoming vegan and now there are financial benefits. An Israel-based health insurance company, Clal Insurance, offers discounts to people who are vegans. The trend has caught on in America with an insurance company offering discounts for life insurance to vegans.

You have to sign a declaration stating you are vegan to receive savings. — *The insurance company requres you to sign a declaration of health to qualify for vegan savings.*

The Israeli insurance company began a Vegan Pay Less, VPL, initiative for life and health insurance plans for vegans. The discount will be available to member sof vegan associations who provide a signed declaration of health to qualify. The company is hoping that more people will choose to make the diet change to become healthier which will reduce health issues and costs.

Benefits of Vegan Diet

Plant based diets have become popular due to how well it ranks in healthiest diets in the world.. Studies have shown that a vegan diet has been shown to aid in the prevention and treatment of major diseases. These studies from the Public Health Nutrition Journal have shown what the benefits vegans receive. Their hypertension reduced by 63%, type 2 diabetes reduced by almost 50%, cardiovascular issues reduced by 20%, and a 15% lower chance from all types of cancer.

A lot of fruits and vegetables can help your body from high risks of cancer, alzheimer’s, and diabetes because of the antioxidants and phytochemicals provided. The National Cancer Institute believes that antioxidants can prevent certain forms of cancer because these antioxidants prevent cell damage.

A person is less likely to become obese or have a high BMI if they are on a vegan diet. A meatless diet will help you to have less body fat. This in turn will keep you from having high blood pressure and cholesterol issues.

A meatless diet has many benefits for your health. — *A meatless diet has many benefits from maintaing your BMI, to lowering your chances of cancers and high blood pressure.*

People who eat fish are exposed to mercury in their diet and high levels of it can damage your kidneys and lungs. A large intake can impact your cognitive skills because it is damaging to the nervous system.

An insurance company in America has joined the bandwagon of giving discounts to Americans who practice a healthier lifestyle by going vegan. Health IQ made the shift in order to help people save money. They base premiums on a person’s lifestyle rather than family history. The likelihood that other insurance companies will join the vegan discounted rates are high because vegans are healthier than non vegans.

Insurers want healthier customers so they do not have to pay a lot to insure them, in other words, the healthier a customer then the more the insurance company saves. Insurance companies do not want to take on sick customers. This will not only benefit the insurance companies, but also the customers. Bottom line is the more greens you eat, the more green you save in your pockets.

Trump’s Plan for Health Insurance to Be Sold Across State Lines is Becoming Reality

While announcing the proposal of association health plans amongst small businesses, the Trump Administration is also aiming to facilitate health insurance policies across state lines. The rule will allow insurance companies to sell plans across state lines. The goal is to be able to provide plans and coverage that cost less.

*Trump plans to allow insurance cpmanies to sell plans across state lines.*

Trump stated “I have private insurance companies coming and will sell private health care plans to people through associations. That’s going to be millions and millions of people. People have no idea how big that is. And by the way, and for that, we’ve ended across state lines. So we have competition.”

The issue that Trump is referring to is the state regulations that each state has. Each state differs in the requirements of what must be covered by insurance companies.

The association health plans would be considered under the federal law that allows large employers the freedom from state regulation. This way, these health plans can be sold across state lines.

Issues that lies with these plans are the fact that they can surpass the ACA’s requirement of providing the 10 essential benefits such as maternity care, mental health care, and emergency services to name a few. This allows the plans to offer fewer benefits, therefore costing much less. But the association plans cannot discriminate or overcharge individuals with pre-existing conditions.

These health plans can be structured across state lines, giving them the opportunity to market anywhere in the country. They may also set up to serve communities, or span several states. However, pricing is uncertain whether people in Manhattan will be priced the same as those in Texas.

“We are concerned that this could create or expand alternative, parallel markets for health coverage, which would lead to higher premiums for consumers, particularly those with pre-existing conditions,” according to a letter last month to state regulators, signed by America’s Health Insurance Plans and the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. “Further, these actions destabilize the health insurance markets that guarantee access to comprehensive health coverage regardless of health status.”

Allowing this new rule will hopefully help Americans save money on health inurance. — *Allowing this new rule will hopefully help Americans save money on health inurance, says Trump.*

Pennsylvania’s acting insurance commissioner, Jessica Altman, voiced her opinion on the matter. “Generally speaking, these types of plans are exempt from state law and outside my jurisdiction,” Altman stated. “That means any issues that consumers have, I won’t be able to help them. More and more people would fall under the jurisdiction of the federal government, and I think state regulators would say we really do it better.”

The opportunity for health insurance plans to be sold across state lines will have an impact on the market. People will be able to purchase less comprehensive plans at a cheaper rate. But this can cause customers with extensive health issue or needs a hard time finding affordable plans. Healthier individuals will leave the marketplace for the skimpier non-regulated health plans, which will create a rise in premiums for those who need it- the sick.

Details on the rule must still be worked out by Congress and voted on, but if passed, it will change the health insurance market.

Tag: Health Insurance