Category Archives: Public Health

Healthcare, Healthcare Information, Healthcare Insurance, Healthcare Services, Obesity, Public Health, Society

European Obesity Day 2010 Is Welcomed By Life Insurance Comparison Site Quoteboffin.co.uk

The 2010 European Obesity Day took place on Saturday May 22, and it is hoped that the campaign will raise the profile of the potentially life-threatening condition. As the first awareness day of its kind, life insurance site Quoteboffin.co.uk welcomed the event and is optimistic that it will help in the fight to reduce the problems associated with obesity in Europe.

One of the campaign’s central goals is to help the 50 per cent of Europeans who are overweight to shed 5 to 10 per cent of their body weight and cut obesity rates across 15 countries.

While the term obesity has become a well known one in the UK it is not in such common usage in other European countries, and it is hoped that the new awareness day will help countries increase public knowledge before the problem becomes rife. Among those participating are a high number of Eastern European countries, including Bulgaria, Estonia, Hungary and Latvia.

A spokesperson for Quoteboffin.co.uk voiced the company’s support for the campaign, saying that it represents a positive step forward when it comes to spreading the word about obesity and its dangers. They added: “Most people in the UK are aware of the problems that can be caused by obesity, but campaigns like this act as a great way for countries to share knowledge.

“What’s more, it’s important for people not to become complacent about things such as obesity. The fact that the term has become common knowledge in the UK means people could be in danger of accepting it as normal, whereas obesity remains a big threat to health.”

Via EPR Network
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Quoteboffin.co.uk Encourages Heart Attack Survivors To Speak To Doctors About Sex Fears

A recent study has drawn attention to the large number of people who are scared of having sex following a heart attack, prompting Quoteboffin.co.uk to release a statement encouraging those with heart problems to speak to doctors to allay their fears.

Quoteboffin.co.uk Encourages Heart Attack Survivors To Speak To Doctors About Sex Fears

A team of US researchers questioned 1,700 heart attack survivors and discovered that around a third reported they were less likely to be having more sex a year on from the date of their attack. Many reported that the fear that sex could kill them was a major factor in deciding to abstain, the researchers told the American Heart Association.

The study was led by Dr Stacy Tessler Lindau, who explained that the chance of suffering subsequent attacks during sex were very small, as long as it is at an appropriate time in the recovery process – an opinion also backed by the British Heart Foundation.

Most patients should be able to resume sexual activity at the same time as they become physically able to partake in moderate exercise, such as climbing a flight of stairs.

The research also found that the patients who were not counselled in sex by their doctors were more likely to avoid it. This news has prompted health insurance comparison site Quoteboffin.co.uk to issue a statement encouraging patients to speak to their doctors about all of their concerns. It said: “While it may be the last thing on the minds’ of patients immediately after a heart attack, it’s natural for questions concerning sex to arise as recovery progresses.

“However, by this point, many people may feel they aren’t able to go back to their doctor, or be too shy to raise the question. It’s very important that people feel confident in seeking information and speaking to medical professionals about sex after serious health scares, and this study highlights the importance of doctors making sure patients are well informed of all of the facts from the outset.”

The study, which examined the sex lives of 1,184 men and 576 women in the year following a heart attack, found that patients who had been given a leaflet about sex when they were discharged from hospital were more likely to resume their sex life.

Via EPR Network
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Healthcare, Healthcare Information, Healthcare Insurance, Healthcare Services, Public Health, Society

Pruhealth Policyholders Sign Up To Local Hospital List

PruHealth launched its Local hospital list in January 2010 to help policyholders looking for cover to get a better price for receiving treatment locally f r o m a network of market-leading private hospitals, and has already seen a sign up level of 40% of new individual policyholders.

Pruhealth Policyholders Sign Up To Local Hospital List

As part of a suite of products built around quality hospitals, the Local hospital list covers 146 hospitals around the UK and includes BMI Healthcare and Spire Healthcare hospitals, the UK’s two largest private hospital groups.

Dave Mezher, Deputy CEO, PruHealth, said: “Traditionally hospitals and insurers have negotiated aggressively with each other, with policyholders often getting caught in the crossfire when there are disputes between providers and insurers. Policyholders have also not generally seen the full benefits in terms of higher quality services or lower prices. By working closely with some of the biggest and most respected private hospital providers in the country, we want to show that there are better ways of ensuring quality in private healthcare while keeping costs low. And the new way we’ve come up with aims to make things simpler and more beneficial for all involved.”

Adrian Fawcett, CEO, BMI Healthcare, added: “As the UK’s largest independent provider of private healthcare, we have focused on developing collaborative relationships with insurers in order to drive increased levels of innovation in the sector. The Local hospital list is a great example of this innovative collaboration, and we are delighted to support PruHealth in delivering their new solutions which ensure patient access to our premium network of over 70 hospitals and clinics nationwide.”

Via EPR Network
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Cancer, Healthcare, Healthcare Information, Healthcare Insurance, Healthcare Services, Public Health, Society

Training To Cut Medical Prejudice For Obesity Essential, Says Life Insurance Comparison Site Quoteboffin.co.uk

Insurance comparison site Quoteboffin is among those calling for the introduction of training to minimise prejudice towards obese patients.

Obesity is a huge problem in the UK and one that’s on the rise. The fact that the condition is costing the NHS money time and resources every year is widely documented in the media and this can lead to prejudice towards people living with the condition.

Past research has found that this prejudice can also be found amongst medical health care professionals. However, a recent study from the Obesity Journal has found that training can easily influence this attitude.

A spokesperson from Quoteboffin, a life insurance comparison site, announced that the company was among those backing the journal’s calls for implementing the training. They added: “Sometimes people don’t even realise they have a prejudice and they think they are working impartially, however when their actions are looked at more closely, a different picture emerges.

“It’s important that all people receive the medical car, compassion and attention they need no matter what their conditions.”

Via EPR Network
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Quoteboffin.co.uk Encourages Women To Take Vitamin And Calcium Supplements To Cut Breast Cancer Risk

Vitamin supplements have been in for a hard time in recent years, with some health professionals claiming they have little effect on overall health. However, a new study has found that vitamin and calcium supplements could help women cut their risk of breast cancer by up to a third.

Quoteboffin.co.uk Encourages Women To Take Vitamin And Calcium Supplements To Cut Breast Cancer Risk

The research, which examined the diet and health of 700 women, found that those with nutrients added to their diet were up to 40 per cent less likely to develop breast cancer. In a report from the Scotsman, lead researcher of the study, Professor Jaime Matta, made it clear that it wasn’t a case of immediate protection, but rather a long-term effect.

Health insurance site Quoteboffin.co.uk has stated its hope that the study will prompt an uptake in the consumption of vitamin and calcium supplements in women across the country. A spokesperson explained: “Breast cancer can be a devastating illness for sufferers and it’s very encouraging to hear news of this study from the Ponce School of Medicine in Puerto Rico.

“If a simple supplement can help women cut the risk of them developing breast cancer in the future then we strongly advise they think seriously about it.”

The study analysed 268 women with breast cancer and 457 healthy controls and discovered that vitamin supplements could cut the risk of breast cancer by up to 30 per cent, and that the danger could be cut by up to 40 per cent when combined with calcium supplements.

Via EPR Network
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Health Insurance Comparison Site Quoteboffin.co.uk Welcomes UK Mephedrone Ban

Mephedrone, a synthetic stimulant also known as Meow, Bubbles and MCAT, has been banned in the UK and a representative from Quoteboffin.co.uk has welcomed the news, claiming it will benefit the NHS and healthcare providers across the country.

Health Insurance Comparison Site Quoteboffin.co.uk Welcomes UK Mephedrone Ban

The representative explained that the laboratory-produced drug had the potential to prove a huge drain on the UK’s health resources, and that Quoteboffin thereby supported the recent ban.

While research into the drug – which is derived from cathinone, a compound found in a plant called Khat – is incomplete, the Advisory Council for the Misuse of Drugs announced it a harmful substance and recommended the ban.

Producing a feeling similar to those experienced by people taking drugs of the amphetamine family, mephedrone has been likened to cocaine and ecstasy. The sensations it produces can include an increased heart rate, anxiety and a sense of euphoria. Associated effects include nausea, palpitations and vomiting, reports the BBC.

Up to 25 deaths have been linked to the drug although their connection has not been conclusively scientifically proven.

The drug and related compounds have been reclassified as class B drugs. This is the same category as cannabis and represents the second most dangerous kind of drug.

A Quoteboffin spokesman said: “Successful measures to cut down on illegal drug use have a wide-raging positive effect on the health care providers across the UK. Drugs such as mephadone can produce a huge drain on NHS resources as people who become ill through illegal drug can often need emergency or even long-term treatment. This can also have an effect on health insurance prices and can drive up the cost of policies for everyone.

“We welcome the ban and encourage people to think carefully about what they put in their bodies.”

Individuals and businesses known to be the selling the drug before the ban came into place were approached by the police, who asked them to voluntarily surrender their supplies. A number of websites that had been legally selling the drug as plant food also went offline.

Via EPR Network
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Texting Teen Moms Proves To Be A Convenient Source For Support Bloomington-Based Teen Parenting Group Sees Benefits Of Texting New Teen Moms

Nearly half (47%) of US teens say they can text with their eyes closed. That’s how vital texting has become in their lives.

Texting Teen Moms Proves To Be A Convenient Source For Support Bloomington-Based Teen Parenting Group Sees Benefits Of Texting New Teen Moms

This trend sparked the new text4baby campaign, a free health education program from the National Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition that sends pregnancy tips directly to expectant mothers’ cell phones. The new service will send weekly text messages, timed to the mother’s due date or their baby’s birth date.

The messages, written by government and nonprofit health experts, deal with nutrition, immunization and birth defect prevention, among other topics. To sign up, mothers-to-be can just text “BABY” to 511411.

While the national text4baby campaign is new, Bloomington Hospital has already seen the benefits of texting to communicate with new moms. Bloomington Hospital’s Gina Forrest began integrating texting into her Teen Parenting Group in 2008. Forrest sends tips and reminders directly to her teen mom’s cell phones through text messages.

“I communicate with the mothers through texting because that is the easiest and fastest way to do so. Texting has helped me build a relationship with them. They know that they can text me and I will answer,” says Forrest

For Natalie Wineinger, one of the teen moms in Forrest’s group, having texting as a communication option has been really beneficial.

“As a teen mom, I don’t really have time to pick up the phone. Texting is much more convenient for me,” says Wineinger.

Monroe Smart Start Birth to Five Coalition, a local group dedicated to coordinating existing resources to help children in their earliest years, also sees benefits in using texting to communicate with expectant and new moms. Lois Hutter-Pishgahi, director of Monroe Smart Start, is happy to see this new communication method being used nationally and on a local level because of its effectiveness in sharing information about pregnancy and early parenting with young parents.“We believe it makes sense to utilize existing services rather reinventing them. We realized that this is a very effective way of sharing information about pregnancy and early parenting,” says Hutter-Pishgahi.

Because four out of every five teens have a mobile device, Forrest and Hutter-Pishgahi know texting is an effective means of reaching teens like the ones in the Teen Parenting Group.

Forrest texts the mothers to send them reminders about upcoming appointments or meetings. This keeps them updated and less likely to miss appointments. Members of the Teen Parenting Group agree that texting is a convenient way for them to receive information.

“If I don’t know the date for my next appointment, I just text Gina and she can look it up for me. It’s as simple as that,” says Wineinger.

Text messaging represents an enormous yet unused channel for delivering vital health information to those who need it most. Over five billions text messages are sent daily, with texting use higher among women of childbearing age.

Via EPR Network
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FDA Blunder and Cover-up Kills Millions

The World Health Organization (WHO) has just recommended that drinking water contain 25-50 mg of magnesium (Mg) per liter to prevent deaths from heart attack and stroke. MgWater.com/download American bottled water averages <5 mg of magnesium per liter, while bottled water in the rest of the world averages about 20 mg of magnesium per liter.

FDA Blunder and Cover-up Kills Millions

The FDA and DOJ caused the Mg-deficient-water problem by destroying the American mineral water industry in the 1930’s, in the mistaken belief that pure water was good, and that mineral water was just impure water.

Epidemiological studies indicate that millions of Americans have died due to the FDA’s and DOJ’s destruction of the American mineral water industry. See:
http://www.mgwater.com/anderson.shtml
http://www.mgwater.com/lancet.shtml
http://www.mgwater.com/finland.shtml
http://www.mgwater.com/singh.shtml

For decades, the evidence has been overwhelming that Americans are very deficient in Mg, as evidenced by the 23% shortfall from the RDI, yet the FDA and DOJ have covered up their blunder, getting a Federal lawsuit dismissed before the evidence could be shown, and keeping silent about the millions of deaths indicated by over 50 epidemiological studies from nine countries.

Now, it is up to the FDA and DOJ to end this travesty, requiring the Mg content of bottled or canned beverages to be put in labels’ nutrition panels, and requiring that all bottled or canned beverages contain at least 25 mg of Mg per liter.

Foods no longer contain as much magnesium as they did a century ago, due to increased food processing and possible soil depletion. Consumers have generally rejected magnesium-rich whole grain foods like brown rice and brown bread, in favor of magnesium-stripped white rice and white bread. Bottled beverages are the most practical way of delivering magnesium to consumers.

Recent studies clearly confirm that water-borne Mg is far, far better in preventing cardiovascular pathologies than food-borne Mg. For more information, go to the Magnesium Online Library at www.MgWater.com.

Via EPR Network
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Physician Offers Own Brand Of Affordable Insurance Alternative

Cedar Park family medicine physician Melissa J. Urrea, M.D. believes taking care of your health shouldn’t be a difficult financial decision. And while the recently-signed Health Care Bill mandates that all individuals will be required to obtain health insurance by 2014, that still leaves several years of challenging options on how to best obtain quality medical care. That’s why she recently introduced through her practice, Trinity Family Medicine, a pre-paid package of medical services. Trinity HealthSpan â„¢ provides access to comprehensive health care to uninsured and underinsured individuals and families.

Nearly one in four Central Texas residents currently lives with inadequate or no health insurance — and that statistic is expected to rise as a result of the recession. Dr. Urrea’s plan helps to  bridge the gap between the need for and access to quality health care services.

For an annual fee of less than $800, Trinity HealthSpan â„¢ provides:

  • An annual examination (including prostate screening)
  • Lab work (including a complete metabolic panel, diabetes screening, kidney and liver function screening, electrolyte evaluation, complete blood count, anemia evaluation, thyroid function evaluation, cholesterol and lipid panel, urinalysis, urine protein evaluation)
  • Electrocardiogram (EKG)
  • Tetanus vaccination
  • Influenza vaccination
  • Three routine office visits (including follow up for a particular disease/condition and sick visits)
  • Access to coordinated services (such as labs) at reduced rates

The concept for Trinity HealthSpan ™ originated when Dr. Urrea was challenged with managing the care of chronically ill individuals who had no or limited insurance or were self-employed. “For someone with a condition like diabetes, allergies or asthma, it is imperative to focus not only on disease management, but overall wellness,” said Dr. Urrea. “That involves multiple visits to a physician, along with moderate diagnostic testing to monitor the condition.”

As the recession affected more and more of her patients, Dr. Urrea consulted with her practice’s business manager to determine how they could assist their patients in maintaining regular access to care. The practice reached out to ancillary service providers like laboratories and negotiated reduced rates on behalf of patients who purchase the Trinity HealthSpan â„¢ package. Trinity HealthSpan â„¢ also connects patients with pharmacies offering low-cost, generic prescription plans. Local retailers like HEB and Target offer plans that provide medications for as little as $5 a month, which is actually less money than most insurance plan co-pays.

For an uninsured individual not participating in Trinity HealthSpan ™ , the cost of the pre-paid package of services would be $1,050. Similarly, if an insured patient paid an average of $400 per month (not including deductibles and co-pays) in insurance premiums, they could save more than $4,000 annually by enrolling in Trinity HealthSpan ™ . “Even if the patient needed X-rays or an MRI, it would still be less expensive than through their insurance plan,” said Dr. Urrea.

“As a physician and patient, I wanted to bring peace of mind to those individuals and families who can’t afford insurance but deserve state-of-the-art medical services,” added Dr. Urrea. Patients may also purchase “a la carte” customized care packages with fewer services or those related to a specific health condition. Plan financing options are also available.

Trinity Family Medicine provides care for the entire family, including pediatrics, women’s health, men’s health, general medicine, herbal medicine, sleep studies, and cosmetic medicine. House calls are also an option for established patients depending on location.

Dr. Urrea is a graduate of the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston (UTMB). She is board-certified by the American Board of Family Medicine, a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians, and serves as an associate clinical professor in the Department of Family Medicine at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston.

For more information or to sign up for Trinity HealthSpan ™, call Trinity Family Medicine at 512-258-1645 or visit www.urreamd.com.

Via EPR Network
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PruHealth Pronounces 24th March as Death of the Diet Day 2010

According to research from PruHealth, the health insurer that rewards members for being health, 24th March is expected to have been the day most Brits fell off the New Year health wagon, making it the 2010 Death of the Diet Day.*

PruHealth Pronounces 24th March as Death of the Diet Day 2010

But while the average person may succumb to temptation by the 24 March, the intention to make long-term lifestyle changes rather than opt for short-term solutions is certainly there for many. 66% said the main reason for starting their new wellbeing regime is to lead a healthier lifestyle, and 43% are still sticking to their regime now, seeing it as an ongoing and permanent lifestyle change, rather than a celebrity-inspired, quick-fix fad diet such as the cabbage soup and baby food diets.

When it comes to sticking to resolutions, resisting the lure of sugary snacks is the biggest challenge for sweet-toothed dieters, with 43% rating this as the hardest hurdle to overcome. A further 34% struggle to find the motivation to go to the gym, and for 27% cutting back on alcohol intake is the real difficulty. This past winter being the coldest on record for 30 years has not helped either – 17% physically weren’t able to get to the gym or exercise outside, and instead found comfort in hearty winter meals at home.

Izabella Siemicka, Communications Manager, PruHealth, said: “The Death of the Diet day 2010 may be upon us, but really the key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle is finding a way of incorporating a nutritionally balanced diet and regular exercise into your everyday life on an ongoing basis.

“It’s really encouraging to see so many Brits are taking steps to change their health for the long-term. The cause for concern has always been when people take drastic, quick-fix measures that in the end can sometimes do more harm than good – physically and emotionally. We all need the occasional treat, and this can help keep up the motivation.”

Getting into shape and looking good on the beach was a big motivator for 29% of Brits who started a new health regime, and for 12% of women it was all about squeezing into a specific outfit for a special occasion.

Worryingly, it took the shock of a health scare to inspire 19% to take action and embark on a new, healthier standard of living. Meanwhile, 16% found getting fit and healthy has helped them through the tough recession.

Nearly one in five (18%) of 20-somethings admitted to ‘cracking’ within a fortnight, in contrast to 31% of 50-somethings who’ve managed to stick to their regime for the long-term. Regionally, for the second year in a row, Welsh dieters fell off the wagon first, with 18% throwing in the towel in the first week.

Twelve per cent of women intended to follow a new health regime, but never managed to kick start it into action, compared to just eight per cent of men.

Via EPR Network
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Top British Hypnosis & NLP Trainer Jonathan Royle Exposes The Hypnotherapy Conmen

Hypnosis is both an increasingly lucrative and rapidly expanding form of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAMS) and also a hugely popular form of Stage Entertainment thanks to people like Paul McKenna.

Top British Hypnosis & NLP Trainer Jonathan Royle Exposes The Hypnotherapy Conmen

But shockingly what most Hypnotherapy Practitioners won’t tell you or dare to admit is that the so called healing and therapeutic power of Hypnosis is nothing more than an elaborate Placebo Effect combined with basis suggestion and classical psychological conditioning akin to Pavlov’s Dog.

What’s even more alarming is the fact that the majority of Comedy Stage Hypnotist’s don’t even realise that whilst what they are doing works due to nothing more than Social Compliance, Basic Human Psychology and Devious Manipulation of their volunteers combined with simple suggestion and the Placebo Effect, that in actual fact what they are doing is potentially dangerous to their subjects as they are messing with people’s Belief Systems and Expectations for the entertainment of others which can have potentially very damaging side effects.

Now for the first time ever British Hypnotist Jonathan Royle has decided to lift the lid on this “Snake Oil” industry and save people potentially thousands of pounds in wasted treatment fee’s or training course payments, whilst also helping them to avoid falling prey to the rapidly growing number of badly trained, illegal, unlicensed, uninsured and potentially dangerous amateur Street Hypnotists messing with peoples mind on a street corner near you!

After years of research and real world experimentation Royle, aged 34 of Rochdale, Greater Manchester, England is so confident of his findings and conclusions on how so called Hypnosis actually works and his statement that “There’s No Such Thing As Hypnosis” that he has become the first Hypnosis Trainer to offer a 100% One Year (365 Day) Money Back Guarantee on his Home Study DVD and Multimedia Diploma Training Package.

Today Royle said “Hypnotherapist’s and Stage/Street Hypnotists who study this new package are literally Guaranteed to become Safer, more knowledgeable and more successful in their work or else I will give them their money back!”

Royle wants to stop people getting conned out of thousands of pounds for long winded Hypnotherapy and NLP Courses which brainwash them to believe in something that actually does not even exist and that’s why he has just released a Free 80 Page PDF Report entitled “The Seven Biggest Secrets of The Famous Name Millionaire NLP’ers – Life Coaches & Hypnotists” at http://www.magicalguru.com/freereport/

Royle who is one of Britain’s Leading Hypnosis Expert’s as illustrated at http://www.magicalguru.com/roylesresume/ explained that despite the fact that Hypnosis Does Not Exist and actually is nothing more than an illusion of truth combined with The Placebo effect, when this is fully understood by Alternative Practitioners and utilised to treat patients in the manner he teaches in his unique Home Study and Live Training Courses that dramatic changes can still occur!

Via EPR Network
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End Of NHS Funded Homeopathy Could Leave Some UK Residents With No Other Choice But To Seek Private Medical Insurance

After examining the claims of homeopathy, the House of Commons select committee on science and technology has concluded that the NHS should no longer provide funding for the treatment.

End Of NHS Funded Homeopathy Could Leave Some UK Residents With No Other Choice But To Seek Private Medical Insurance

Homeopathy – a 200-year-old complementary medical practice – uses heavily diluted substances which are thought to cause similar symptoms to the illnesses they are being used to treat; thus triggering the body’s natural healing process.

Millions of patients across the globe swear by homeopathic treatments while others dismiss it as nothing more than a ‘placebo’.

Whichever side of the debate you’re on, life insurance comparison website – QuoteBoffin.co.uk – believes that every patient should have the right to seek medical care they feel is appropriate for them.

A spokesperson for QuoteBoffin.co.uk said: “Freedom of choice is something that Britain prides itself on. Removing homeopathy f r o m the NHS medical roster means a percentage of patients are being denied the right to choose a method of treatment they believe is most appropriate or may work better for them than other forms of medicine.

With health insurance providers still offering homoeopathy treatments via carefully selected homeopathic specialists, patients wishing to pursue this line of treatment may have no other option but to seek private health cover.”

Complimentary therapies and medicines are available via some of the UK’s biggest health insurance providers such as AXA PPP and BUPA.

Patients needn’t worry about paying through the nose for homeopathic treatment out with the NHS claims QuoteBoffin.co.uk: “The end of homoeopathy on the NHS doesn’t mean the end of homoeopathy full stop. Health insurance premiums start f r o m as little as £5 per month which is a small price to pay for peace of mind and first class healthcare which covers homeopathy and beyond.

With the rise and rise of price comparison websites that allow consumers to check insurance prices, there’s no reason why you can’t get a good deal on an insurance package that allows you to retain freedom of choice with regard to medical care.”

Via EPR Network
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Memory Training Centers of America Expands Its Services to Assisted Living Communities in Fort Lauderdale

Memory Training Centers of America (MTCA, previously referred to as ATMTC) has been providing evaluation, treatment, education and support to individuals suffering from memory impairment and caregivers since 2001. MTCA is the largest provider of cognitive evaluations and memory training services at Assisted Living residences in the Northeast, with more than 20 Centers in assisted living and independent senior retirement communities, as well as nursing care and hospital-based programs. All treatment services are paid for by Medicare.

For almost ten years, Dr. Bruce Brotter and his associates at the Memory Training Center in Forest Hills have been helping seniors and families meet the challenges of memory loss and Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Brotter is very enthusiastic about his upcoming visits to several Luxury Assisted Living Communities in the Fort Lauderdale area in March. “MTCA has been wanting to bring its programs that have been so successful in the Northeast to Floridians for some time now. We are very excited to finally be able to offer our services in Florida and to start this new growth in Broward County.” says Dr. Brotter.

Scientific Brain Training PRO is the pioneer of scientifically-proven brain fitness computer programs designed to maximize the brain’s capacity to learn, adapt to new information, enable sharpness and minimize the natural effects of aging. All programs are supervised by a cognitive therapy professional and individuals are supportively guided through state-of-the art computer exercises. The “Memory Gym” and Activity Center offers healthy individuals memory exercise and activities to strengthen existing cognitive function and build a reserve of prevention to guard against future memory loss. Memory Gyms provide memory and other cognitive strengthening exercises through the utilization of cutting-edge computer software. Memory Gyms have already been placed at the Atria Tanglewood in Lynbrook, the Atria Woodlands in Ardsley, Oyster Bay Manor in Oyster Bay and are in development at the Atria Darien, in Darien, Connecticut. Learn more about Scientific Brain Training PRO technology at www.memorytrainingcenters.com.

MTCA works together with family members and health-care providers to ensure implementation of the most comprehensive and helpful treatment plan possible. “We have seen over time how education and support helps the coping strengths of individuals and families, as well as augmenting the treatment process through building understanding and confidence,” says Brotter.

A range of interactive and problem-solving interventions are provided to also strengthen short-term memory functioning and enhance independent living skills and quality of life. While an active lifestyle, both physically and mentally, helps individuals to maintain good overall cognitive health, memory training is an essential ingredient to ensure healthy memory functioning. MTCA is proud of its service to thousands of seniors each year and looks forward to being able to provide its much needed services to thousands more in Fort Lauderdale!

Via EPR Network
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NHS Struggles To Cope With Rising Levels of Obesity

Rising levels of obesity could see a substantial rise in the number of people applying for health insurance, money saving website Quoteboffin.co.uk has revealed.

NHS Struggles To Cope With Rising Levels of Obesity

With 20% of the population now classed as clinically obese and more people dying from weight related diseases than ever before, the UK’s obesity crisis is adding a heavyweight strain to the NHS that’s impossible to ignore.

At £2.6billion a year, the cost of obesity related NHS bills is asking tax payers to dig deeper and deeper into their pockets in order to cover the cost.

Causing most concern however is the effect that obesity is having on NHS resources and – in particular – waiting times which have begun to rocket as obesity related illnesses add even more patients to already crowded lists.

The fear of long waiting lists will be the main driver towards private medical insurance claims QuoteBoffin.co.uk: “With rising levels of obesity adding months, if not years, to already overcrowded waiting lists it’s no wonder that more consumers will begin turning their attention to private health cover in order to guarantee prompt and professional medical treatment.

Waiting lists can be especially frustrating for those who have strived to live a healthy lifestyle but could still find themselves at the end of a very long queue. Health insurance removes the unknown by guaranteeing peace of mind and first class medical care in equal measure.”

While Government and health organisations have strived to pepper the airwaves, internet and billboards with healthy eating campaigns such as 5-a-day and Milk Moustache, Britain’s obesity crisis shows little sign of letting up.

QuoteBoffin is calling for consumers to take note of current health trends and prepare for the future:

“Obesity in the UK is projected to grow by 10% every decade for the foreseeable future. Today’s social climate should encourage people to prepare for the future and view health insurance as an essential not a luxury. Quoteboffin.co.uk and its competitors allow consumers to compare the cost of insurance packages from market leaders; meaning preparing for future has never been so simple or affordable.”

Via EPR Network
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Police Only To Respond To Lone Worker Alarms And Services That Operate In Compliance With The Alarm Response Policy

Following the recent publication of the new lone worker standard BS8484, the Association of Chief Police Officers for England, Wales and Northern Ireland (ACPO) have confirmed that the standard has been included within its recently amended Alarms Response Policy that restricts police response to only those service providers operating in compliance.

Police Only To Respond To Lone Worker Alarms And Services That Operate In Compliance With The Alarm Response Policy

ACPO will now begin a series of national police trials commencing on 1st February 2010 with a small number of lone worker service providers complying with the policy. Argyll, the UK’s leader in lone worker protection services, is pleased to announce that it will participate.

The trials are designed to enable police to assess the volume, quality and the impact of alarms raised through lone worker devices and services on national police resources. The trials will last for up to 12 months to enable ACPO to collect sufficient data and the results will inevitably test the effectiveness of the service provider and may help to shape the final version of BS8484 lone worker standard.

Via EPR Network
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Long Term Care Insurance Still Possible

There’s no ifs, ands or buts about it—senior citizens will need some kind of long term care at one point in their life, 75 percent to be exact. The problem, however, is that coverage can cost upwards of $70,000 a year, a sum many seniors don’t possess. Fortunately, a recently published article on InsuranceAgents.com reveals that there are ways to still obtain affordable long term care insurance.

Long term care consists of a wide array of health and support services such as personal care and assistance with all daily living activities. The cost of such services depends on many factors, particularly the type and amount of care needed, the healthcare provider and the area in which a person resides in.

The sooner a person obtains long term care insurance, however, the more affordable it will be. The article, “Long Term Care Insurance: How To Save Big,” suggests to senior citizens seven different ways they can save on long term care. Some of them include:

1. Obtaining health insurance quotes for long term care and comparing policies, rates and providers

2. Applicants should apply with a spouse, as many providers will offer a major discount for couples who seek coverage together.

3. While the cost is as low as it’s going to get, try to get as much coverage as possible—weigh benefits against cost and remember that maximum coverage will come in handy down the road.

4. An applicant’s membership in a group—like AAA, or a homeowners association or alumni organization, for examples—may get lower rates, too.

5. Seeking tax credits or tax deductions. The federal government rewards those who invest in long term care insurance.

Senior citizens on the hunt for affordable but extensive long term care insurance should first and foremost obtain free health insurance quotes online before sitting down with a health insurance agent.

Via EPR Network
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Avoid Pregnancy Financial Complications with Maternity Health Insurance

Couples who are expecting to embark on their journey of starting a family should purchase pregnant health insurance sooner than later. Thanks to the failing economy, it is becoming harder and harder for pregnant women to obtain a private maternity health insurance policy. A recently published article on InsuranceAgents.com recommends couples expecting or planning on having children purchase a quality policy as soon as possible if they’re interested in saving money.

“Raising a child (or multiple children) can be infinitely rewarding, but it is also expensive,” the article, Maternity Health Insurance: What Does It Cover?, states. “Prenatal care, doctor checkups, ultrasounds, delivery, etc., can all drain your savings if you don’t have sufficient maternity health insurance to cover the expenses.”

So how and what do couples benefit from with maternity health insurance? On top of covering the expenses of doctor’s visits, ultrasound exams, hospital stays, tests, prenatal care, anesthesia and newborn check-ups, a quality policy will also cover the baby delivery charge, which can cost between $6,000 and $10,000 alone.

Couples who come across a policy that doesn’t cover the cost of the listed expenses should consult with their health insurance agent on how they can customize it. It is silly to obtain a policy that doesn’t protect against a newborn delivery charge that can place a couple in a financial hole for many years following the pregnancy.

Women who have not yet become pregnant still have time. Start comparing maternity health insurance quotes online today to find the most affordable and convenient policy and ensure a safe pregnancy.

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UK Enjoys Highest Net Income in Europe but Life Quality is Poorest

The UK and Ireland are the worst places in Europe to live, according to the latest uSwitch.com Quality of Life Index. While the UK enjoys the highest net household income in Europe, quality of life is the poorest, proving that there is more to good living than money. Long working hours, lower holiday entitlement and a high cost of living all contribute to a poor quality of life in the UK – and it’s not much better for the Irish either:

•Best quality of life can be found in France and Spain. The worst can be found in the UK and Ireland
•Depressing: UK workers can expect to work 3 years longer and die 2 years younger than their French counterparts
•Cost of living: consumers in the UK are paying above the European average for fuel, food, alcohol and cigarettes
•Health and education: the UK’s spend on healthcare and education is below the European average. Only Ireland and Poland spend less on healthcare, but Ireland has more doctors and hospital beds and Poland has more beds than the UK
•Longer life: Germany, Spain, France, Italy, the Netherlands and Sweden all enjoy longer life expectancy than the UK
•Retirement age in the UK has dropped, but it is still the 4th highest in Europe
•UK enjoys highest net household income, but workers in the UK get lowest holiday entitlement in Europe.

The latest uSwitch.com European Quality of life Index reveals that people in the UK are still getting a raw deal compared with their European neighbours. Despite the fact that the UK enjoys the highest net household income in Europe – GBP35,730 a year, which is more than GBP10,000 a year above the European average – this does not translate into a good life. Instead, people in the UK can expect to work longer, die younger and enjoy lower standards of healthcare and education.

The uSwitch.com study examined 17 factors in order to understand where the UK sits in relation to nine other major European countries. Variables such as net income, taxes and the cost of essential goods, such as fuel, food and energy bills, were examined along with lifestyle factors, such as hours of sunshine, holiday entitlement, working hours and life expectancy to provide a complete picture of the quality of life experienced in each country.

The findings show that people in the UK and Ireland have the poorest quality of life, while the French and Spanish enjoy the highest. The UK gets the lowest number of days holiday per year, pays the highest prices for diesel and food and spends below the European average (as a percentage of GDP) on health and education. It also has the 4th lowest life expectancy in Europe and workers retire later than most of their European counterparts.

France, which topped the league, enjoys one of the lowest retirement ages, has the longest life expectancy in Europeand spends the most on healthcare Its workers also benefit from 34 days holiday a year – compared with only 28 in the UK – and it comes only behind Spain and Italy for hours of sunshine.

Spain, which topped the league last year, enjoys the most sunshine – but it has more to smile about than just that. The Spanish can expect to live a year longer than people in the UK, enjoy the highest number of days holiday in Europe (41 days a year) and pay the lowest fuel prices. And as if that’s not enough to celebrate, they are paying the lowest prices for alcohol too.

This year’s index does not reveal the full impact of the recession – this can be expected to show next year. However, France officially went into recession in May 2009 and has already emerged again (August 2009). This quick turnaround could see it maintaining a high quality of life despite the economic difficulties facing most European nations. Spain entered recession in February 2009 with no official announcement as to when it is likely to exit. Poland is the only country in the study not to have gone into recession and it is widely expected to avoid it throughout 2009.

Out of the two countries experiencing the lowest quality of life, Ireland went into recession first in September 2008 while the UK officially went into recession in January 2009. Both are yet to exit and the impact on the UK is expected to be severe and long lasting. Unemployment has already hit a 14 year high at 2.47 million workers or 7.9% of the workforce – the highest rate since 1995. Even with the UK due to start recovery shortly, the jobless toll is still expected to rise with the British Chambers of Commerce predicting numbers exceeding 3 million next year.

Importantly, as politicians start to plot a way out of the financial mire, quality of life in the UK could suffer even more. This is because public spending is likely to be reined in so that the amount spent in the UK on education and health could fall. The Labour Government has already indicated GBP2 billion of cuts to come on education but it has so far rejected advice from management consultants to cut the NHS workforce by 10% over the next 5 years. The UK is already spending below the European average (as a percentage of GDP) on both health and education.

Health

The UK is spending below the European average (as a percentage of GDP) on both education and health. The largest shortfall is on health though, where the UK is spending 8.2% of GDP compared with the European average of 9%. Only Poland and Ireland spend less on health than the UK. France is the biggest investor, spending 11% of GDP on health, closely followed by Denmark and Germany.

The UK has 2.1 doctors per 1,000 people and 3.9 hospital beds. In contrast, France has 3.4 doctors and 7.3 beds. Poland, which spends less than the UK on health, has more hospital beds – 5.2 beds per 1,000 people. While Ireland spends less than the UK, but achieves a greater number of doctors per 1,000 and a higher number of hospital beds (2.9 doctors per 1,000 and 5.6 beds).

Lower spending on education and health could also be a contributing factor to the UK’s lower than average life expectancy, which is 4th lowest in Europe. There is some evidence to suggest that people who are better educated live longer and in better health than those who are less educated. This link between education and health cannot be explained by behavioural differences alone and has led scholars to suggest that having the right educational policies could improve a nation’s health considerably.

As well as shorter lives, people in the UK can expect to work for longer than most of their European neighbours too. The average European retirement age is 62 years old, however UK workers can expect to carry on working for 6 months longer than this. Poland has the lowest retirement age at just over 59 years old, closely followed by France. In real terms, these differences mean that UK workers can expect to work 3 years longer and die 2 years younger than their French counterparts.

Well being

Workers in the UK put in an average of 37 hours a week. Spain, France, Italy and Poland all work longer hours, but they also benefit from more days off. While workers in the UK get the lowest holiday entitlement in Europe – 28 days a year – the Spanish benefit from 41 days a year, the highest entitlement. As a result, UK workers can expect to work an average of 5 days more a year than their European counterparts and 13 days a year more than their Spanish counterparts. Over a lifetime of work (45 years) a Spanish worker could expect to have over 5 years off as holiday, while a UK worker could expect to have just over 3 years off.

Ann Robinson, Director of Consumer Policy at uSwitch.com, says: “There is more to good living than money and this report shows why so many Brits are giving up on the UK and heading to France and Spain. We earn substantially more than our European neighbours, but this level of income is needed just to keep a roof over our heads, food on the table and our homes warm. It’s giving us a decent standard of living, but it’s not helping us achieve the quality of life that people in other countries enjoy.

“For too long the focus in the UK has been on standard of living rather than quality of life. As a result we have lost all sense of balance between wealth and well-being. The recession could prove to be a turning point, forcing us to re-evaluate our way of life, get back to basics and to the things that really count. Consumers are already beginning to do this – the Government and its policymakers would do well to follow suit.”

Via EPR Network
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The Young Are Being Hit Hardest By The Strains Of Modern Life

PruHealth has revealed that the old adage of ‘being over the hill’ in later life may need to be revised as it seems the stresses and strains of modern life are hitting the younger generation the hardest.

The latest research from PruHealth, the health insurance provider that rewards policyholders for being healthy, has found that today’s 20-somethings feel three years older than their birth certificate states and the average 30-something feels their actual age, but the average Brit aged 40+ feels 11.5 years younger than their actual age.*

However, 20-30 somethings seem to have energy levels closer to those of retirees. More people in their 20s and 30s have a dip in their energy levels throughout the course of the day than any other age group, while 12% of 30-somethings don’t feel energetic at any point during the day at all – compared with only 6% of people in their 60s.

The research highlights how people in their 20s and 30s live unhealthier lifestyles than those in their 40s and 50s, which could be the reason for the younger generation’s sluggish energy levels and feeling older than their years. The top three reasons for lower energy levels were identified as an unhealthy diet, lack of exercise and not getting enough sleep. However, little action appears to be being taken to counteract this with only 47% saying they eat a balanced diet, 18% never exercise, and a quarter sleep for less than 6 hours a night.

The older generation tends to follow a more balanced diet, eats less unhealthy foods such as takeaways, and participates in a similar level of exercise compared with the younger generation. However, as the over 40s require less calories than the under 40s** this could be the key to their youthfulness.

Interestingly, people of all ages who feel younger than their real age are more likely to feel most energetic in the morning, while those who experience a peak in energy levels in the afternoon are more likely to feel older than their actual age.

Shaun Matisonn, CEO, PruHealth, said: “While it’s wonderful to see that the older we get, the better we feel, the energy levels of those under 40 clearly needs more attention. This age group need to get more exercise – and more sleep – eat healthily and follow more active lifestyles to help boost their energy levels.

“Finding time in your 30s to exercise and eat healthily can be especially difficult while you’re juggling a career and looking after a young family, but incorporating small steps in your daily routine, such as getting off the bus a stop early and snacking on fruit rather than crisps, can help make all the difference.”

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InsuranceAgents.com – Finding The The Right Health Insurance Policy For You

When it comes to purchasing health insurance, you generally have three options: group, state, or individual. Individual insurance can be a bit misleading because it covers not only you, the policyholder, but also your spouse and any dependents you may have. The best way to find optimum health insurance is to go online and compare health insurance quotes.

The pros of individual health insurance include the ability to claim tax benefits and the ability to keep it as long as you pay your premiums. According to the article recently published on InsuranceAgents.com, “Generally, an individual health insurance policy is more costly than a group health insurance policy, since the policyholder is responsible for all premium payments.”

However, group insurance has its own benefits. “The most preferred type of health insurance is typically group health insurance,” the article continues. “Most commonly this means employer-sponsored group health insurance. Through a person’s job, he or she can receive health benefits for themselves as well as their entire family.”

Possibly the most attractive attribute of group health insurance is that it is generally cheaper than an individual policy. This is because your employer pays a portion of the premium and it also provides a greater variety of coverage. However, if you are unemployed or if your employer does not offer health benefits then your only option is individual.

Visit InsuranceAgents.com for expert articles and insurance quotes from up to five local agents.

Via EPR Network
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