Showing posts with label HEALTH. Show all posts
Health insurance costs in the United States
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
 | This article is outdated. (March 2010) |
The cost of health insurance in the United States is a major factor in access to health coverage. The rising cost of health insurance leads more consumers to go without coverage and increase in insurance costs and accompanying rise in the cost of health care expenses has led health insurers to provide more policies with higher deductibles and other limitations that require the consumer to pay a greater share of the cost themselves. Many people with pre-existing conditions such as cancer and depression are turned down for coverage, denied coverage of those conditions or are charged higher prices for coverage.
Contents
[hide]Background[edit]
The US is the “only industrialized nation that relies heavily on a for-profit medical insurance industry to provide basic health care," as Senator Dianne Feinstein has said, and the Pulitzer Prize–winning Politifact watchdog group has confirmed.[1] The Kaiser Family Foundation claims that health insurance costs are driven not only by the added cost of health insurers making their profits, but also by rising health costs and administrative costs.[2]
In 2004, employer-sponsored health insurance premiums grew 11.2% to $9,950 for family coverage, and $3,695 for a single person, according to a survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation and Health Research and Education Trust. The survey also found that 61% of workers were receiving employer sponsored health insurance. [3]
Five years later, Kaiser’s 2009 survey found that employer health insurance premiums were $13,375 for a family and $4,824 for a single person. About 60% of workers were receiving employer sponsored health insurance. Less than half (46%) of employees at small firms with 3 to 9 workers received coverage. As of 2008, the percentage of Americans receiving employer sponsored health insurance had declined for the eighth consecutive year, says the Kaiser Family Foundation.[4]
From 1999 to 2009, Kaiser found that the insurance premiums had climbed 131% or 13.1% per year, and workers’ contribution toward paying that premium jumped 128% or 12.8% per year. In 1999, workers’ average contribution to the premium was $1,543, and in 2009 it was $3,515. For employers, their contribution was $4,247 in 1999 and $9,860 in 2009. [5]
The lower a families’ income is, the less likely that they can purchase health insurance, according to 2008 US Census figures. About 14.5% of households with $50,000 to $75,000 in income did not have health insurance. While 24.5% of households with $25,000 or less income went without health insurance.[6]
A March 2010 study by the Center for Studying Health System Change, a Washington, DC think tank, found that out-of-pocket costs for health insurance premiums and services were rising faster than family incomes. Published in the journal Health Affairs, the study found “…After accounting for general inflation, family incomes remained stagnant between 2004 and 2006, while out-of-pocket spending on premiums and health care services increased 8.5% over the two-year period. Overall, total out-of-pocket spending increased, on average, about 5 percent annually between 2001 and 2006, and was similar for the 2001–4 and 2004–6 periods.”[7] The report found the largest increases in out-of-pocket expenses were for those with private health insurance, including middle- and higher-income families. The study was based on 2001 through 2006 data.[8]
Impacted populations[edit]
Pre-existing conditions[edit]
People with pre-existing conditions typically cannot obtain any coverage, or at best can obtain limited coverage or more costly coverage for those conditions. This situation is expected to be corrected by the health reform bill being considered by the US Congress in early 2010. Currently, those with pre-existing conditions must pay the cost out-of-pocket, and some resort to medical tourism, obtaining treatment in other countries or US regions, to obtain more affordable health treatment. This is especially difficult for those impacted by cancer, heart condition and other serious illnesses where treatment costs can easily run into the tens of thousands of dollars or higher within a few days or weeks. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, 21 percent of those who apply for health insurance on their own are turned down, charged a higher price or denied coverage for their pre-existing condition. [9]Among the conditions that be considered “pre-existing” by insurance companies are domestic violence, cancer, asthma, depression and occupations such as police officer and construction worker. [10][11]
Self-employed[edit]
The 9 million self-employed workers have a greater challenge than many people to find affordable health insurance. They represent 8 percent of the US labor force, and essentially pay a tax on their health insurance premiums, unlike any other workers. They pay a tax of 15.3 percent of their net earnings, double the rate of wage and salary earners.[12]
Low-income families[edit]
For Americans earning less than $24000 per year, few have health insurance, or, they rely on government insurance (Medicaid). In this income bracket, more than half of people ages 27 to 37 do not have health insurance. This number drops when people reach their 40s, but even into their late 50s, more than one-third of these Americans are uninsured.[13] When new health reform laws take effect, low-income families will receive subsidies to help them pay for health insurance. These subsidies will paid through higher taxes paid by people with higher incomes. [14]
State cost-control efforts[edit]
- California: On March 23 2010, the California State Assembly’s Health Committee passed a bill that would require health insurers and health maintenance organizations to have same strict regulation that has covered automobile and other types of property insurance for the last two decades. The bill would require approval of some rate hikes by state agencies, and must next be considered by the state legislature.[15]
- Iowa: In March 2010, Iowa senior advocates and the AARP asked state legislators to act on a measure that would require state regulators to hold hearings when rate increases are proposed and issue an annual report about insurance rates.[16]
- Massachusetts: The State of Massachusetts held a three-day hearing in March 2010 to discuss ways to better control health insurance and other costs. Addressing these costs, Massachusetts Secretary of Health and Human Services Dr. JudyAnn Bigby said "As we examine all of the causes of increasing health care costs and implement reforms, we must strive to bring premiums down without sacrificing access to care or requiring consumers to pay more out of pocket."[17]
See also[edit]
- Health care
- Health care politics
- Health care reform
- Health economics
- Health insurance
- Health insurance in the United States
- Health insurance exchange
- Health insurance mandate
- Health maintenance organization
- Insurance in the United States
Tag :
HEALTH
6 Steps to Taking Your Baby’s Temperature
Motherhood comes with many challenges. Getting an accurate temperature reading on an infant is one of them.
While the idea of taking a rectal temperature is a little scary, it’s important to know why it provides the most accurate reading. The goal of taking a temperature is to assess how warm it is inside of the body. This means that the most accurate measurement will be one taken inside the body. Since your infant can’t delicately keep a thermometer under her tongue, your only option is a rectal reading.
If you follow these six easy steps, you and baby will get through this. We promise.
Select a thermometer. Any digital thermometer will work. Plus, some of the higher-end models can provide an accurate reading in only 10 seconds! If you are using a regular digital thermometer, make sure you know which one is for rectal use for baby and which one is for oral use for adults to eliminate any ick factor.
Prep the thermometer. Clean the end with rubbing alcohol or soap and warm water. Rinse with cool water. Coat the end with a little petroleum jelly for easier insertion.
Position your baby. Place your baby on her back on the changing table, with her legs bent to her chest, just like you would during a diaper change.
Insert the thermometer. You only need to put three-quarters of an inch to an inch (2 to 2.5 centimeters) into your baby's rectum, or until the tip of the thermometer disappears. Commit! Do not let go of her bottom or the thermometer. It’ll be over before you know it. Something we should warn you about: Inserting anything into your baby's rectum can stimulate her bowels, so don't be surprised if she poops when you take the thermometer out.
Understand the reading. Once you hear the beep, you can rest assured the number on the thermometer is accurate. A baby's normal temperature can range from about 97 degrees Fahrenheit up to 100.3 degrees Fahrenheit. Most doctors consider a rectal temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher as a fever.
Clean up. Clean the thermometer with soapy water or rubbing alcohol, then rinse and dry before storing.
See all parenting content from HealthyWomen.org.
While the idea of taking a rectal temperature is a little scary, it’s important to know why it provides the most accurate reading. The goal of taking a temperature is to assess how warm it is inside of the body. This means that the most accurate measurement will be one taken inside the body. Since your infant can’t delicately keep a thermometer under her tongue, your only option is a rectal reading.
If you follow these six easy steps, you and baby will get through this. We promise.
Select a thermometer. Any digital thermometer will work. Plus, some of the higher-end models can provide an accurate reading in only 10 seconds! If you are using a regular digital thermometer, make sure you know which one is for rectal use for baby and which one is for oral use for adults to eliminate any ick factor.
Prep the thermometer. Clean the end with rubbing alcohol or soap and warm water. Rinse with cool water. Coat the end with a little petroleum jelly for easier insertion.
Position your baby. Place your baby on her back on the changing table, with her legs bent to her chest, just like you would during a diaper change.
Insert the thermometer. You only need to put three-quarters of an inch to an inch (2 to 2.5 centimeters) into your baby's rectum, or until the tip of the thermometer disappears. Commit! Do not let go of her bottom or the thermometer. It’ll be over before you know it. Something we should warn you about: Inserting anything into your baby's rectum can stimulate her bowels, so don't be surprised if she poops when you take the thermometer out.
Understand the reading. Once you hear the beep, you can rest assured the number on the thermometer is accurate. A baby's normal temperature can range from about 97 degrees Fahrenheit up to 100.3 degrees Fahrenheit. Most doctors consider a rectal temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher as a fever.
Clean up. Clean the thermometer with soapy water or rubbing alcohol, then rinse and dry before storing.
See all parenting content from HealthyWomen.org.
http://tipsnn.blogspot.com/
Tag :
HEALTH
16 Ways to Lose Weight Fast
Tweak your lifestyle
by Jessica Girdwain
From Health magazine
From Health magazine
It's a familiar story: You pledge to honor a daily elliptical routine and count every last calorie. But soon, you're eating cupcakes at the office and grabbing happy hour mojitos, thinking, Oops, diet over.
There is a better way: Swap the all-or-nothing approach for one or two healthy switch-ups in your daily routine. "Doing this can lead to more weight loss than you ever imagined," says Marissa Lippert, RD, author of The Cheater's Diet.
In fact, we talked to readers who knocked off 10, 25, even 60 pounds with some easy tweaks. Borrow their slim-down secrets to transform your body the real-world way.
There is a better way: Swap the all-or-nothing approach for one or two healthy switch-ups in your daily routine. "Doing this can lead to more weight loss than you ever imagined," says Marissa Lippert, RD, author of The Cheater's Diet.
In fact, we talked to readers who knocked off 10, 25, even 60 pounds with some easy tweaks. Borrow their slim-down secrets to transform your body the real-world way.
Tag :
HEALTH
Top 10 Healthy Foods for Kids
- Fruits: They are a great sweet fix for kids’ sweet cravings. Berries are best in providing antioxidants and vitamins. Apple, banana, guava, purple and blue fruits and citrus fruits are loaded with nutrition, colors, sweetness and taste that attract kids more than any other snacks. Seasonal fruits are a good deal with your budget as well.
- Vegetables: Moms should be creative when dealing with vegetables. It’s tricky to make them agreed to eat green leafy vegetables which are the primary source of vitamins and minerals. It’s imperative to add veggies in their meals to provide plenty of health benefits. Make any salad recipe an integral part of their lunch and dinner.
- Eggs: Eggs are a perfect small package that has so much nutritious in them. They are rich with proteins and must be included in kids’ meal for their growing brains. Protein is a major source of to build strong muscles, bones, nails and hairs. It is imperative to provide at least 4 eggs in a week to kids.
- Yogurt: Dairy products are a powerhouse of most essential nutrients. Yogurt plays a particular role in providing good bacteria to help your kids grow healthier. It’s suggested to try a low fat version without added sugar. To make it interesting for kids you can add berries, nuts and other fruits in yogurt. Frozen yogurt is a perfect substitute of ice creams with more calcium and nutrients.
- Cheese: Cheese is a delicious and nutritious addition in a kid’s meal. You can serve it in chunks, melt it in sandwiches or spread it on toasts as per kid’s demand. If your kid is struggling with weight than offer them fat free cheese.
- Grains: Whole grain breaks down into glucose which is a main source of energy that your child needs throughout the day. Whole wheat pasta, bread or cereals must be added in kids’ meal than plain white flour products.
- Chocolate: One of the amazing effects of chocolates is it increases the brain chemicals that control the ability to stay alert and pay attention. It’s rich in antioxidants as well. Dark chocolate is much better than the milk chocolate.
- Nuts: There is a wide variety of nuts that is loaded with all essential nutrients. Introduce kids to these tiny snacks rather than sweets and candies.
- Fish: It’s a rich source of protein. It’s high in omega-3 essential fatty acids which is important for proper brain development. That’s why fish is considered as a brain food.
- Pop Corn: Air popped pop corns are one of the lowest fat, delicious and healthy snacks. It’s a whole grain and the richest source of antioxidant according to University of Scranton.
Tag :
HEALTH
TOP 10 HEALTH MAGAZINES
TOP 10 HEALTH MAGAZINES
1
|  http://tipsnn.blogspot.com/ | MEN'S HEALTH 10 issues per year Men's Health magazine offers information to help men look good, feel great and take control of their lives. Each issue of Men's Health magazine features articles on fitness, health, career, relationships, nutrition, sex and general interests. |
2
|  http://tipsnn.blogspot.com/ | WOMEN'S HEALTH 10 issues per year Women's Health magazine is written for a new generation of women that want practical information on healthy living. Women's Health provides tips and advice for integrating getting in shape and feeling good into their busy schedules. |
3
|  http://tipsnn.blogspot.com/ | HEALTH 10 issues per year Health magazine features informative articles on how to stay fit, look great and feel fantastic. Find vibrant, reliable information to help manage your healthy life in each issue of Health magazine. |
4
|  http://tipsnn.blogspot.com/ | PREVENTION 12 issues per year Prevention magazine provides healthy solutions for weight loss and disease prevention. Find expert advice on health, anti-aging, diets, nutrition, family, fitness and food in each issue of Prevention magazine. |
5
|  http://tipsnn.blogspot.com/ | COOKING LIGHT 12 issues per year Cooking Light magazine has scores of delicious, nutritious recipes in every issue. Find out why Cooking Light magazine is the most popular food magazine in the country. Cooking Light publishes one double issue which counts as two of 12 in an annual subscription. |
6
|  http://tipsnn.blogspot.com/ | RUNNER'S WORLD 12 issues per year Runner's World magazine informs, educates and inspires runners of all ages and abilities. Each issue of Runner's World contains profiles, race coverage, training advice, nutrition information and product reviews. |
7
|  http://tipsnn.blogspot.com/ | MEN'S FITNESS 10 issues per year Men's Fitness magazine brings men all the news for staying lean and trim and looking your best. With advice for scoring dates and eating healthier, Men's Fitness magazine packs in all the tips you need to live a health and balanced lifestyle. |
8
|  http://tipsnn.blogspot.com/ | SHAPE 12 issues per year Shape magazine provides women with expert advice on health and fitness issues like exercise, nutrition and psychology. Also find the latest trends in fashion and beauty in Shape magazine for a well-rounded healthy lifestyle. |
9
|  http://tipsnn.blogspot.com/ | SELF 12 issues per year Self magazine provides practical advice, fresh ideas and how-to instruction on how to be your fittest, healthiest, happiest and most beautiful. Find advice and features on fashion, nutrition and relationships in each issue of Self magazine. |
10
|  http://tipsnn.blogspot.com/ | FITNESS 10 issues per year Fitness magazine is devoted to women's total well-being - mind, body and spirit. Each Fitness magazine issue features expert advice on fitness, beauty, relationships, health, diet and nutrition. |
Tag :
HEALTH
15 popular health website
1 | WebMD
156 - eBizMBA Rank | 80,000,000 - Estimated Unique Monthly Visitors | 63 - Compete Rank | 72 - Quantcast Rank | 333 - Alexa Rank | January 1, 2015.
The Most Popular Health Websites | eBizMBA
156 - eBizMBA Rank | 80,000,000 - Estimated Unique Monthly Visitors | 63 - Compete Rank | 72 - Quantcast Rank | 333 - Alexa Rank | January 1, 2015.
The Most Popular Health Websites | eBizMBA
2 | NIH198 - eBizMBA Rank | 55,000,000 - Estimated Unique Monthly Visitors | 111 - Compete Rank | 176 - Quantcast Rank | 308 - Alexa Rank | January 1, 2015.
The Most Popular Health Websites | eBizMBA
3 | Yahoo! Health240 - eBizMBA Rank | 50,500,000 - Estimated Unique Monthly Visitors | *220* - Compete Rank | *260* - Quantcast Rank |NA - Alexa Rank | January 1, 2015.
The Most Popular Health Websites | eBizMBA
4 | MayoClinic439 - eBizMBA Rank | 30,000,000 - Estimated Unique Monthly Visitors | 166 - Compete Rank | 156 - Quantcast Rank | 994 - Alexa Rank | January 1, 2015.
The Most Popular Health Websites | eBizMBA
5 | MedicineNet709 - eBizMBA Rank | 25,500,000 - Estimated Unique Monthly Visitors | 265 - Compete Rank | 220 - Quantcast Rank | 1,641- Alexa Rank | January 1, 2015.
The Most Popular Health Websites | eBizMBA
6 | Drugs864 - eBizMBA Rank | 22,000,000 - Estimated Unique Monthly Visitors | 254 - Compete Rank | 73 - Quantcast Rank | 2,266- Alexa Rank | January 1, 2015.
The Most Popular Health Websites | eBizMBA
7 | EverydayHealth1,092 - eBizMBA Rank | 18,000,000 - Estimated Unique Monthly Visitors | 179 - Compete Rank | 356 - Quantcast Rank |2,741 - Alexa Rank | January 1, 2015.
The Most Popular Health Websites | eBizMBA
8 | HealthGrades1,108 - eBizMBA Rank | 17,000,000 - Estimated Unique Monthly Visitors | 256 - Compete Rank | 366 - Quantcast Rank |2,703 - Alexa Rank | January 1, 2015.
The Most Popular Health Websites | eBizMBA
9 | Healthline1,343 - eBizMBA Rank | 16,000,000 - Estimated Unique Monthly Visitors | 563 - Compete Rank | 421 - Quantcast Rank |3,046 - Alexa Rank | January 1, 2015.
The Most Popular Health Websites | eBizMBA
10 | Mercola1,365 - eBizMBA Rank | 15,500,000 - Estimated Unique Monthly Visitors | 1,452 - Compete Rank | 754 - Quantcast Rank |1,889 - Alexa Rank | January 1, 2015.
The Most Popular Health Websites | eBizMBA
11 | Health1,393 - eBizMBA Rank | 15,000,000 - Estimated Unique Monthly Visitors | 1,198 - Compete Rank | 464 - Quantcast Rank |2,518 - Alexa Rank | January 1, 2015.
The Most Popular Health Websites | eBizMBA
12 | MindBodyGreen1,705 - eBizMBA Rank | 10,500,000 - Estimated Unique Monthly Visitors | 2,067 - Compete Rank | 323 - Quantcast Rank |2,724 - Alexa Rank | January 1, 2015.
The Most Popular Health Websites | eBizMBA
13 | Medscape1,821 - eBizMBA Rank | 9,000,000 - Estimated Unique Monthly Visitors | 1,041 - Compete Rank | 815 - Quantcast Rank |3,608 - Alexa Rank | January 1, 2015.
The Most Popular Health Websites | eBizMBA
14 | RxList2,381 - eBizMBA Rank | 7,000,000 - Estimated Unique Monthly Visitors | 642 - Compete Rank | 476 - Quantcast Rank |6,024 - Alexa Rank | January 1, 2015.
The Most Popular Health Websites | eBizMBA
15 | MedicalNewsToday2,939 - eBizMBA Rank | 6,500,000 - Estimated Unique Monthly Visitors | 1,755 - Compete Rank | 2,246 - Quantcast Rank |4,817 - Alexa Rank | January 1, 2015.
The Most Popular Health Websites | eBizMBA
