#Healthcare Cost Reduction

[nita-sharma]

Top 10 Benefits of Implementing a Corporate Wellness Program

The well-being of employees has become a crucial factor in enhancing productivity and job satisfaction. Implementing a Corporate Wellness Programme offers numerous advantages that can significantly impact an organization’s success. Here are the top 10 benefits of adopting such programs:

Enhanced Employee Productivity: A well-structured Corporate Wellness Programme helps in reducing absenteeism and increasing overall productivity. Employees who are healthy and well-rested are more likely to perform at their best, leading to better organizational outcomes.

Improved Employee Retention: Investing in wellness packages in India can boost employee morale and loyalty. When employees feel valued and supported, they are less likely to leave, reducing turnover rates and associated costs.

Reduced Healthcare Costs: Companies that invest in wellness programs often see a reduction in healthcare costs. By promoting preventive care and healthier lifestyles, organizations can lower insurance premiums and medical expenses.

Enhanced Mental Health: Establishing an employee mental health wellness program is crucial. Such programs provide support and resources for managing stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues, contributing to a healthier and more balanced workforce.

Better Work-Life Balance: Corporate wellness initiatives often include flexible working arrangements and stress management workshops. These benefits help employees achieve a better work-life balance, leading to increased job satisfaction and overall well-being.

Boosted Employee Engagement: Wellness programs that focus on employee well-being foster a more engaged workforce. Engaged employees are more motivated and committed to their roles, which enhances team performance and company culture.

Attraction of Top Talent: Companies that offer comprehensive wellness packages in India are more attractive to potential employees. A robust Corporate Wellness Programme can serve as a differentiator in a competitive job market.

Positive Workplace Environment: Wellness programs contribute to a positive workplace environment by encouraging healthy habits and fostering a culture of support and care among employees.

Increased Productivity through Healthy Habits: Implementing wellness programs helps employees adopt healthier habits, which can lead to improved focus and efficiency in their daily tasks.

Holistic Development: Corporate wellness programs often integrate holistic practices, such as those offered at an ayurvedic wellness centre or holistic stay resort, promoting overall health and well-being.

By incorporating these benefits into your organization, you can create a more supportive and productive work environment. Explore more about Corporate Wellness Programmes and how they can transform your workplace at Fazlani Nature’s Nest.

For additional information on wellness packages and holistic stay options, visit Fazlani Nature’s Nest.

[happycareclinicnursingservice]

Chronic disease management is a crucial aspect of modern healthcare, requiring the expertise of dedicated healthcare professionals. Managing chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension involves continuous care and monitoring to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

[techninja]

The Role of AI and Machine Learning in Enhancing Diagnostic Accuracy

Digital Health: Transforming Modern Healthcare

Understanding Digital Health

Digital health signifies a groundbreaking convergence of technology with the healthcare sector. Utilizing digital tools, the medical field is undergoing a significant transformation in the way care is delivered, accessed, and managed. This shift encompasses telehealth, wearable technology, mobile health applications, and electronic health records (EHRs), all aimed at enhancing patient outcomes, increasing efficiency, and lowering costs.

Key Elements of Digital Health

Telehealth: Connecting Patients and Providers

Telehealth is a cornerstone of digital health, utilizing telecommunications technology to provide clinical services from a distance. This includes video consultations, remote monitoring, and virtual follow-ups. The advantages are substantial:

Accessibility: Quality healthcare reaches patients in remote or underserved areas without the need for travel.

Convenience: Reduces the necessity for in-person visits, saving time and resources.

Continuity of Care: Facilitates ongoing management of chronic conditions.

Wearable Technology: Real-Time Health Monitoring

Wearable technology such as fitness trackers, smartwatches, and biosensors play a critical role in monitoring various health metrics. These devices gather data on heart rate, physical activity, sleep patterns, and more, which is essential for:

Preventive Care: Detecting potential health issues early.

Personalized Treatment: Customizing treatments based on individual health data.

Patient Engagement: Encouraging proactive health management.

Mobile Health Applications: Health Management Simplified

Mobile health apps provide functionalities ranging from medication reminders to diet tracking and mental health support. They empower users with easy access to health information and management tools. Key benefits include:

Empowerment: Puts users in control of their health information and decisions.

Education: Offers access to valuable health resources and information.

Support: Facilitates communication with healthcare providers and support networks.

Electronic Health Records (EHRs): Consolidating Patient Information

EHRs are digital versions of patient charts and are fundamental to digital health. They offer comprehensive and accurate patient information accessible to authorized healthcare providers. The benefits include:

Care Coordination: Ensures all healthcare providers have access to the same information.

Accuracy: Reduces errors associated with manual record-keeping.

Efficiency: Streamlines workflows and enhances patient care management.

The Impact of Digital Health on Healthcare

Enhancing Patient Outcomes

Digital health technologies significantly improve patient outcomes. By enabling remote monitoring and early detection of health issues, these tools facilitate preventive care and timely interventions. Patients with chronic conditions benefit greatly from continuous monitoring and personalized treatment plans.

Boosting Healthcare Efficiency

The integration of digital health solutions enhances operational efficiency within healthcare systems. Telehealth, for instance, reduces the need for physical infrastructure, while EHRs streamline administrative processes, leading to cost savings and more efficient resource use.

Reducing Healthcare Costs

Innovations in digital health help reduce healthcare costs by minimizing in-person visits, decreasing hospital readmissions, and preventing the progression of chronic diseases through early intervention. Additionally, automated systems and telehealth services lessen the burden on healthcare providers, leading to more cost-effective care delivery.

Challenges and Solutions in Digital Health Adoption

Ensuring Data Privacy and Security

A primary concern in digital health is the privacy and security of patient data. Healthcare providers must ensure that digital systems comply with regulations such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) and employ robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive information.

Achieving Integration and Interoperability

Integrating digital health technologies into existing healthcare systems can be challenging. Ensuring interoperability between various digital tools and traditional systems is crucial for seamless data sharing and efficient care coordination. Solutions include adopting standardized protocols and investing in interoperable systems.

Promoting User Adoption and Training

Effective use of digital health technologies requires that both healthcare providers and patients are willing and able to use them. Comprehensive training and support systems are necessary to ensure users are comfortable and proficient with new technologies. Educational initiatives and user-friendly interfaces can significantly improve adoption rates.

The Future of Digital Health

The future of digital health looks promising, with ongoing advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and blockchain technology set to further revolutionize healthcare. AI and machine learning can enhance diagnostic accuracy and treatment personalization, while blockchain technology can ensure secure and transparent health data management.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

AI and machine learning algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data to identify patterns and predict health outcomes, leading to more accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment plans. These technologies have the potential to revolutionize areas such as radiology, pathology, and drug discovery.

Blockchain Technology

Blockchain offers a decentralized and secure method for managing health records, ensuring data integrity and privacy. By providing a transparent ledger of all transactions, blockchain can prevent data breaches and enhance trust in digital health systems.

Conclusion

Digital health is reshaping the healthcare landscape, offering unprecedented opportunities to improve patient care, enhance efficiency, and reduce costs. As technology continues to evolve, the integration of digital tools in healthcare will become increasingly essential. Embracing these innovations requires overcoming challenges related to data security, system integration, and user adoption. However, the potential benefits make it a worthwhile endeavor, promising a future where healthcare is more accessible, efficient, and personalized.

[advantagebiomedicalservices]

In the fast-paced world of healthcare, the accuracy and precision of medical equipment are paramount. Here at Advantage Biomedical Services, a trusted name in the industry, we offer essential calibration and testing services to healthcare facilities, ensuring the integrity of their equipment and improving patient care.

[spoonienation]

Angry patients spur new state watchdogs to bring down drug prices • Stateline

[dontmeantobepoliticalbut]

President Joe Biden will call for expanding a new cap on insulin prices to all Americans as part of his State of the Union address, the White House said Monday.

During the Tuesday speech, Biden plans to tout his administration’s efforts to make health care more affordable, which included imposing a $35-per-month limit on insulin that took effect in January.

But that price cap, which was passed as part of last year’s Inflation Reduction Act, only applied to those beneficiaries covered by Medicare. Biden is now expected to renew his push for the policy to be applied to anyone with an insulin prescription, the White House said in a fact sheet.

“The President will call on Congress to extend this commonsense, life-saving protection to all Americans,” the fact sheet said.

Democrats had originally planned to pass a universal insulin price cap last year as part of the Inflation Reduction Act, which was passed along party lines last August. But the policy was scaled back after Republicans successfully challenged its inclusion. Democrats since then have vowed to continue to push for its passage, arguing that it’s broadly popular and crucial to ensuring that people can afford essential medicines.

Still, Biden’s fresh support for expanding the price cap is unlikely to result in much concrete progress. Republicans remain opposed to the measure, and are unlikely to even allow a vote on it in the House now that they control the chamber.

Biden during his State of the Union speech is also expected to highlight a handful of other health care accomplishments, including landmark legislation granting Medicare the right to negotiate drug prices and cap certain out-of-pocket pharmacy costs. He will celebrate the three latest states to expand their Medicaid programs, while urging Congress to pass legislation that would close coverage gaps in the 11 holdout states that have yet to expand Medicaid.

The President also plans to call for continuing to lower health insurance costs, pointing to expanded Obamacare subsidies that the administration estimates lowered customers’ premiums by an average of $800 per year and pushed the nation’s uninsured rate to an all-time low.

[sug4r-melon]

every day i wake up and am reminded I have boobs and that makes me angery

[boreal-sea]

Look.

I have made you a chart. A very simple chart.

People say "You have to draw the line somewhere, and Biden has crossed it-" and my response is "Trump has crossed way more lines than Biden".

These categories are based off of actual policy enacted by both of these men while they were in office.

If the ONLY LINE YOU CARE ABOUT is line 12, you have an incredible amount of privilege, AND YOU DO NOT CARE ABOUT PALESTINIANS. You obviously have nothing to fear from a Trump presidency, and you do not give a fuck if a ceasefire actually occurs. You are obviously fine if your queer, disabled, and marginalized loved ones are hurt. You clearly don't care about the status of American democracy, which Trump has openly stated he plans to destroy on day 1 he is in office.

EDIT:

Ok fine, I spent 3 hours compiling sources for all of these, you can find that below the cut.

I'll give at least one link per subject area. There are of course many more sources to be read on these subject areas and no post could possibly give someone a full education on these subjects.

Biden and trans rights: https://www.hrc.org/resources/president-bidens-pro-lgbtq-timeline

Trump and trans rights: https://www.aclu.org/news/lgbtq-rights/trump-on-lgbtq-rights-rolling-back-protections-and-criminalizing-gender-nonconformity

The two sources above show how Biden has done a lot of work to promote trans rights, and how Trump did a lot of work to hurt trans rights.

Biden on abortion access: https://www.cnn.com/2022/07/08/politics/what-is-in-biden-abortion-executive-order/index.html

Trump on abortion access: https://apnews.com/article/abortion-trump-republican-presidential-election-2024-585faf025a1416d13d2fbc23da8d8637

Biden openly supports access to abortion and has taken steps to protect those rights at a federal level even after Roe v Wade was overturned. Trump, on the other hand, was the man who appointed the judges who helped overturn Roe v Wade and he openly brags about how proud he is of that decision. He also states that he believes individual states should have the final say in whether or not abortion is legal, and that he trusts them to "do the right thing", meaning he supports stronger abortion bans.

Biden on environmental reform: https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2021/10/07/fact-sheet-president-biden-restores-protections-for-three-national-monuments-and-renews-american-leadership-to-steward-lands-waters-and-cultural-resources/

Trump on environmental reform: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/climate/trump-environment-rollbacks-list.html

Biden has made major steps forward for environmental reform. He has restored protections that Trump rolled back. He has enacted many executive orders and more to promote environmental protections, including rejoining the Paris Accords, which Trump withdrew the USA from. Trump is also well known for spreading conspiracy theories and lies about global climate change, calling it a "Chinese hoax".

Biden on healthcare and prescription reform: https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2023/06/09/biden-administration-announces-savings-43-prescription-drugs-part-cost-saving-measures-president-bidens-inflation-reduction-act.html

Trump on healthcare reform: https://www.cnn.com/2024/01/07/politics/obamacare-health-insurance-ending-trump/index.html

I'm rolling healthcare and prescriptions and vaccines and public health all into one category here since they are related. Biden has lowered drug costs, expanded access to medicaid, and ACA enrollment has risen during his presidency. He has also made it so medical debt no longer applies to a person's credit score. He signed many executive orders during his first few weeks in office in order to get a handle on Trump's grievous mishandling of the COVID pandemic. Trump also wants to end the ACA. Trump is well known for refusing to wear a mask during the pandemic, encouraging the use of hydroxylchloroquine to "treat" COVID, and being openly anti-vaxx.

Biden on student loan forgiveness: https://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/biden-harris-administration-announces-additional-77-billion-approved-student-debt-relief-160000-borrowers

Trump on student loan forgiveness: https://www.forbes.com/sites/adamminsky/2024/06/20/trump-knocks-bidens-vile-student-loan-forgiveness-plans-suggests-reversal/

Trump wants to reverse the student loan forgiveness plans Biden has enacted. Biden has already forgiven billions of dollars in loans and continues to work towards forgiving more.

Infrastructure funding:

I'm putting these links next together because they are all about infrastructure.

In general, Trump's "achievements" for infrastructure were to destroy environmental protections to speed up projects. Many of his plans were ineffective due to the fact that he did not clearly outline where the money was going to come from, and he was unwilling to raise taxes to pay for the projects. He was unable (and unwilling) to pass a bipartisan infrastructure bill during his 4 years in office. He did sign a few disaster relief bills. He did not enthusiastically promote renewable energy infrastructure. He created "Infrastructure Weeks" that the federal government then failed to fund. Trump did not do nothing for infrastructure, but his no-tax stance and his dislike for renewable energy means the contributions he made to American infrastructure were not as much as he claimed they were, nor as much as they could have been. Basically, he made a lot of promises, and delivered on very few of them. He is not "against" infrastructure, but he's certainly against funding it.

Biden was able to pass that bipartisan bill after taking office. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Plan that Trump tried to prevent from passing during Biden's term contains concrete funding sources and step by step plans to rebuild America's infrastructure. If you want to read the plan, you can find it here: https://www.whitehouse.gov/build/guidebook/. Biden has done far more for American infrastructure than Trump did, most notably by actually getting the bipartisan bill through congress.

Biden on Racial Equity: https://www.npr.org/sections/president-biden-takes-office/2021/01/26/960725707/biden-aims-to-advance-racial-equity-with-executive-actions

Trump on Racial Equity: https://www.axios.com/2024/04/01/trump-reverse-racism-civil-rights https://www.bbc.com/news/av/world-us-canada-37230916

Trump's racist policies are loud and clear for everyone to hear. We all heard him call Mexicans "Drug dealers, criminals, rapists". We all watched as he enacted travel bans on people from majority-Muslim nations. Biden, on the other hand, has done quite a lot during his term to attempt to reconcile racism in this country, including reversing Trump's "Muslim ban" the first day he was in office.

Biden on DEI: https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/06/25/executive-order-on-diversity-equity-inclusion-and-accessibility-in-the-federal-workforce/

Trump on DEI: https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/trump-tried-to-crush-the-dei-revolution-heres-how-he-might-finish-the-job/ar-BB1jg3gz

Biden supports DEI and has signed executive orders and passed laws that support DEI on the federal level. Trump absolutely hates DEI and wants to eradicate it.

Biden on criminal justice reform: https://time.com/6155084/biden-criminal-justice-reform/

Trump on criminal justice reform: https://www.vox.com/2020-presidential-election/21418911/donald-trump-crime-criminal-justice-policy-record https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2024/05/trumps-extreme-plans-crime/678502/

From pardons for non-violent marijuana convictions to reducing the federal government's reliance on private prisons, Biden has done a lot in four years to reform our criminal justice system on the federal level. Meanwhile, Trump has described himself as "tough on crime". He advocates for more policing, including "stop and frisk" activities. Ironically it's actually quite difficult to find sources about what Trump thinks about crime, because almost all of the search results are about his own crimes.

Biden on military support for Israel: https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/national-security/biden-obama-divide-closely-support-israel-rcna127107

Trump on military support for Israel: https://www.vox.com/politics/353037/trump-gaza-israel-protests-biden-election-2024

Biden supports Israel financially and militarily and promotes holding Israel close. So did Trump. Trump was also very pro-Israel during his time in office and even moved the embassy to Jerusalem and declared Jerusalem the capitol of Israel, a move that inflamed attitudes in the region.

Biden on a ceasefire: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2024/06/05/gaza-israel-hamas-cease-fire-plan-biden/73967659007/

Trump on a ceasefire: https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/donald-trump/trump-israel-gaza-finish-problem-rcna141905

Trump has tried to be quiet on the issue but recently said he wants Israel to "finish the problem". He of course claims he could have prevented the whole problem. Trump also openly stated after Oct 7th that he would bar immigrants who support Hamas from the country and send in officers to American protests to arrest anyone supporting Hamas.

Biden meanwhile has been quietly urging Netanyahu to accept a ceasefire deal for months, including the most recent announcement earlier in June, though it seems as though that deal has finally fallen through as well.

[intelliatech]

The Role Of Machine Learning In Predictive Maintenance

A machinery or equipment failure can lead to increased costs, production delays, and downtimes. This further can impact productivity and efficiency as well.

Therefore, before such failures occur, it is important to foresee equipment issues and perform maintenance exactly when needed. This helps maintain productivity and leads to cost savings. By adopting predictive maintenance based on machine learning, manufacturers can reduce downtime and repair time. 

Predictive maintenance with machine learning can yield substantial benefits such as minimizing the time for maintenance schedules, cutting down maintenance costs, and increasing the runtime.

In this blog post, we’ll be exploring everything a manufacturer should know about predictive maintenance with the help of machine learning models, its applications, and the future of predictive maintenance.  Read More!!!

[emily-space]

What can we do about the soaring cost of prescription medicine?

Satish Srinivasan, CEO of DiRx, discusses the impact of soaring prescriptionmedicine costs and how DiRx is addressing this issue by offering affordablemedications directly from manufacturers and bypassing intermediaries. DiRx's modelhelps consumers save significantly on their prescriptions, making essential medicinesmore accessible to those in need.

[advancedrecoveryrehab]

Preventing falls among seniors is a matter of utmost importance. No matter how simple the accident seems to be, a single slip can have a profound impact on their well-being and quality of life.

[eternelleaesthetics]

Double Chin Reduction In Hyderabad | Chin Reduction Surgery | The Cost of a Chin Reduction Surgery @eternelleaesthetics

Chin Reduction In Hyderabad

A double chin, or submental fat, is a common condition where excess fat accumulates beneath the skin in the area below the chin. This condition can occur due to a variety of factors, including genetics, weight gain, and age-related changes in skin elasticity. While having a double chin is not necessarily a sign of poor health, it can affect one's self-image and may be a cause for concern. 

If you want to get rid of your stubborn double chin and want to achieve a defined chin and chiselled jawline, there are several treatment options available. One such option is chin reduction surgery. We at Eternelle Aesthetics, the best cosmetic clinic in Hyderabad provide facial cosmetic and reconstructive surgery and can provide exceptional care for those seeking cosmetic chin surgery to improve their appearance and restore function.

What is Chin Reduction Surgery?

Chin reduction surgery, also known as genioplasty or mentoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that aims to reduce the size and shape of the chin. The surgery can involve removing a portion of the bone in the chin or shaving down excess bone. It may also involve repositioning the chin to create a more balanced facial appearance.

Cosmetic concerns a chin reduction procedure can treat include:

A prominent or excessively large chin

A weak or receding chin

Asymmetrical chin

A chin that is disproportionately long in comparison to the rest of the face

A chin that protrudes too far forward, causing an unbalanced facial profile

A chin that is too angular or square-shaped, creating a harsh or masculine appearance

How is Chin Reduction Surgery Performed?

During a chin reduction procedure, the surgeon typically administers either general anaesthesia or local anaesthesia with sedation to ensure that you are comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure. To reach the chin bone, the surgeon makes an incision inside the mouth or under the chin. Depending on your needs, the surgeon will remove or reposition a portion of the bone to achieve the desired shape and size.

In cases where the reduction is being made to the soft tissue of the chin, the surgeon will make a small incision under the chin, the excess tissue is removed, and the remaining tissue is repositioned.

The procedure typically takes one to two hours, and you can return home the same day. 

Chin Reduction Surgery Recovery

Every patient's recovery time is different and depends on a number of factors, such as their age, general health, and whether or not they had other procedures done in addition to their chin reduction. But most patients can resume their normal activities within two to three weeks after the procedure.

What Should You Expect During the Recovery Period?

After undergoing chin reduction surgery, it is common to experience swelling, bruising, and mild pain. Your doctor will prescribe medications to help manage these symptoms. To promote a smooth recovery, it is crucial to follow specific postoperative instructions, which may include:

Eating a soft food or liquid diet for a few days after surgery to avoid any strain on your jaw or chin.

Avoiding any strenuous activity, including exercise, for at least two weeks after the surgery to prevent any complications.

Keeping dressings over your incision to protect the area and promote healing. You may need to keep the dressings in place for several days after the surgery.

Attending follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress and address any concerns or issues that may arise.

What to Expect From The Results of a Chin Reduction Procedure?

While the results of a chin reduction procedure are typically noticeable immediately after the surgery, the final outcomes will continue to evolve over the course of approximately six months as your body heals. During this time, any swelling or bruising will gradually subside, allowing you to fully appreciate the permanent enhancements to your chin shape and size.

What is The Cost of a Chin Reduction Surgery?

On average, in India, the cost of a chin reduction surgery can range from Rs. to Rs. However, the actual cost can be higher or lower depending on the specific circumstances of your case. It is recommended to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to receive a personalized quote and to discuss payment and financing options.

Choose the Best Cosmetic Clinic in Hyderabad for Double Chin Reduction

With a team of highly qualified and experienced plastic surgeons, advanced facilities, and state-of-the-art technologies, Eternelle Aesthetics offers a wide range of non-surgical and surgical options for double chin reduction. 

[lookingforcactus]

A big cost and concern for many seniors in the U.S. is the price of prescription drugs and other healthcare expenses—and this year, thanks to The Inflation Reduction Act, their costs may go down dramatically, especially for patients fighting cancer or heart disease.

I learned about the new benefits because my ‘Medicare birthday’ is coming up in a couple months when I turn 65. I was shocked that there were so many positive changes being made, which I never heard about on the news.

Thousands of Americans on Medicare have been paying more than $14,000 a year for blood cancer drugs, more than $10,000 a year for ovarian cancer drugs, and more than $9,000 a year for breast cancer drugs, for instance.

That all changed beginning in 2023, after the Biden administration capped out-of-pocket prescriptions at $3,500—no matter what drugs were needed. And this year, in 2024, the cap for all Medicare out-of-pocket prescriptions went down to a maximum of $2,000.

“The American people won, and Big Pharma lost,” said President Biden in September 2022, after the legislation passed. “It’s going to be a godsend to many families.”

Another crucial medical necessity, the shingles vaccine, which many seniors skip because of the cost, is now free. Shingles is a painful rash with blisters, that can be followed by chronic pain, and other complications, for which there is no cure

In 2022, more than 2 million seniors paid between $100 and $200 for that vaccine, but starting last year, Medicare prescription drug plans dropped the cost for shots down to zero.

Another victory for consumers over Big Pharma affects anyone of any age who struggles with diabetes. The cost of life-saving insulin was capped at $35 a month [for people on Medicare].

Medicare is also lowering the costs of the premium for Part B—which covers outpatient visits to your doctors. 15 million Americans will save an average of $800 per year on health insurance costs, according to the US Department of Health and Human Services.

Last year, for the first time in history, Medicare began using the leverage power of its large patient pool to negotiate fair prices for drugs. Medicare is no longer accepting whatever drug prices that pharmaceutical companies demand.

Negotiations began on ten of the most widely used and expensive drugs.

Among the ten drugs selected for Medicare drug price negotiation were Eliquis, used by 3.7 million Americans and Jardiance and Xarelto, each used by over a million people. The ten drugs account for the highest total spending in Medicare Part D prescription plans...

How are all these cost-savings being paid for?

The government is able to pay for these benefits by making sure the biggest corporations in America are paying their fair share of federal taxes.

In 2020, for instance, dozens of American companies on the Fortune 500 list who made $40 billion in profit paid zero in federal taxes.

Starting in 2023, U.S. corporations are required to pay a minimum corporate tax of 15 percent. The Inflation Reduction Act created the CAMT, which imposed the 15% minimum tax on the adjusted financial statement income of any corporation with average income that exceeds $1 billion.

For years, Americans have decried the rising costs of health care—but in the last three years, there are plenty of positive developments.

-via Good News Network, February 25, 2024

[techninja]

Personalized Treatment Plans through Data from Wearable Health Devices

Digital Health: Transforming Modern Healthcare

Understanding Digital Health

Digital health signifies a groundbreaking convergence of technology with the healthcare sector. Utilizing digital tools, the medical field is undergoing a significant transformation in the way care is delivered, accessed, and managed. This shift encompasses telehealth, wearable technology, mobile health applications, and electronic health records (EHRs), all aimed at enhancing patient outcomes, increasing efficiency, and lowering costs.

Key Elements of Digital Health

Telehealth: Connecting Patients and Providers

Telehealth is a cornerstone of digital health, utilizing telecommunications technology to provide clinical services from a distance. This includes video consultations, remote monitoring, and virtual follow-ups. The advantages are substantial:

Accessibility: Quality healthcare reaches patients in remote or underserved areas without the need for travel.

Convenience: Reduces the necessity for in-person visits, saving time and resources.

Continuity of Care: Facilitates ongoing management of chronic conditions.

Wearable Technology: Real-Time Health Monitoring

Wearable technology such as fitness trackers, smartwatches, and biosensors play a critical role in monitoring various health metrics. These devices gather data on heart rate, physical activity, sleep patterns, and more, which is essential for:

Preventive Care: Detecting potential health issues early.

Personalized Treatment: Customizing treatments based on individual health data.

Patient Engagement: Encouraging proactive health management.

Mobile Health Applications: Health Management Simplified

Mobile health apps provide functionalities ranging from medication reminders to diet tracking and mental health support. They empower users with easy access to health information and management tools. Key benefits include:

Empowerment: Puts users in control of their health information and decisions.

Education: Offers access to valuable health resources and information.

Support: Facilitates communication with healthcare providers and support networks.

Electronic Health Records (EHRs): Consolidating Patient Information

EHRs are digital versions of patient charts and are fundamental to digital health. They offer comprehensive and accurate patient information accessible to authorized healthcare providers. The benefits include:

Care Coordination: Ensures all healthcare providers have access to the same information.

Accuracy: Reduces errors associated with manual record-keeping.

Efficiency: Streamlines workflows and enhances patient care management.

The Impact of Digital Health on Healthcare

Enhancing Patient Outcomes

Digital health technologies significantly improve patient outcomes. By enabling remote monitoring and early detection of health issues, these tools facilitate preventive care and timely interventions. Patients with chronic conditions benefit greatly from continuous monitoring and personalized treatment plans.

Boosting Healthcare Efficiency

The integration of digital health solutions enhances operational efficiency within healthcare systems. Telehealth, for instance, reduces the need for physical infrastructure, while EHRs streamline administrative processes, leading to cost savings and more efficient resource use.

Reducing Healthcare Costs

Innovations in digital health help reduce healthcare costs by minimizing in-person visits, decreasing hospital readmissions, and preventing the progression of chronic diseases through early intervention. Additionally, automated systems and telehealth services lessen the burden on healthcare providers, leading to more cost-effective care delivery.

Challenges and Solutions in Digital Health Adoption

Ensuring Data Privacy and Security

A primary concern in digital health is the privacy and security of patient data. Healthcare providers must ensure that digital systems comply with regulations such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) and employ robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive information.

Achieving Integration and Interoperability

Integrating digital health technologies into existing healthcare systems can be challenging. Ensuring interoperability between various digital tools and traditional systems is crucial for seamless data sharing and efficient care coordination. Solutions include adopting standardized protocols and investing in interoperable systems.

Promoting User Adoption and Training

Effective use of digital health technologies requires that both healthcare providers and patients are willing and able to use them. Comprehensive training and support systems are necessary to ensure users are comfortable and proficient with new technologies. Educational initiatives and user-friendly interfaces can significantly improve adoption rates.

The Future of Digital Health

The future of digital health looks promising, with ongoing advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and blockchain technology set to further revolutionize healthcare. AI and machine learning can enhance diagnostic accuracy and treatment personalization, while blockchain technology can ensure secure and transparent health data management.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

AI and machine learning algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data to identify patterns and predict health outcomes, leading to more accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment plans. These technologies have the potential to revolutionize areas such as radiology, pathology, and drug discovery.

Blockchain Technology

Blockchain offers a decentralized and secure method for managing health records, ensuring data integrity and privacy. By providing a transparent ledger of all transactions, blockchain can prevent data breaches and enhance trust in digital health systems.

Conclusion

Digital health is reshaping the healthcare landscape, offering unprecedented opportunities to improve patient care, enhance efficiency, and reduce costs. As technology continues to evolve, the integration of digital tools in healthcare will become increasingly essential. Embracing these innovations requires overcoming challenges related to data security, system integration, and user adoption. However, the potential benefits make it a worthwhile endeavor, promising a future where healthcare is more accessible, efficient, and personalized.

[kp777]

By Julia Conley

Common Dreams

Aug. 16, 2024

Proposals to lower housing, childcare, and healthcare costs for millions of families are "a welcome step in the right direction," said one advocate.

After announcing earlier this week that U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris plans to take on corporate price gouging with the first-ever federal ban in the food and grocery industries, the Democratic presidential nominee's campaign on Friday unveiled details about Harris' broader economic agenda, making clear to advocates that she is focused on lowering numerous costs facing working households.

Along with a four-year plan to boost housing construction, provide financial help to first-time homebuyers, and rein in predatory corporate landlords, Harris announced plans to lower medical costs and provide financial assistance to new parents and families raising young children.

The proposals, which Harris is expected to officially announce at a campaign event in Raleigh, North Carolina on Friday, send the message that "the days of 'what's good for free enterprise is good for America' are over," Felicia Wong, president of the progressive think tank Roosevelt Forward, toldThe Washington Post.

"Harris has made a set of policy choices over the last several weeks that make it clear that the Democratic Party is committed to a pro-working, family agenda," Wong said.

Within Harris' plan to lower healthcare costs, the vice president will include proposals to expand Medicare's cap on prescription drug costs at $2,000 annually to all Americans and to place a limit of $35 per month on insulin. Both policies are provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and currently apply only to Medicare recipients. As the Postreported, allowing all Americans to benefit from the price limits "could face resistance from the pharmaceutical industry and Republicans," who have fought to block Medicare drug price negotiations that were also included in the IRA.

Harris said she would work to expedite those negotiations, the first round of which yielded lower costs for 10 widely used medications that were announced by the Biden administration on Thursday.

"Policies that lift up families will always be popular with voters. Working people want to see action from our federal government to address sky-high costs."

The vice president would also work closely with states to cancel medical debt for millions of people "and to help them avoid accumulating such debt in the future, because no one should go bankrupt just because they had the misfortune of becoming sick or hurt," said the Harris campaign. "This plan builds on Vice President Harris' leadership in removing medical debt from nearly all Americans' credit reports and in helping secure American Rescue Plan funds to cancel $7 billion of medical debt for up to 3 million Americans."

The final plank of the economic plan announced on Friday was focused on "cutting taxes for the middle class," the campaign said, with the vice president pledging to restore and expand child tax credits. Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump's campaign has been focusing on the issue in recent weeks as vice presidential candidate Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio) has come under fire for his criticism of people who don't have children and for his absence from a Senate vote on expanding the existing child tax credit, which nearly the entire GOP Senate caucus voted against.

The Harris campaign said the vice president would restore the expanded child tax credit that provided a credit of up to $3,600 per child for middle- and lower-income families; the program was passed as part of the American Rescue Plan in 2021, but expired at the end of that year due to opposition from the Republican Party and conservative Sen. Joe Manchin (I-W.Va.), then a Democrat.

Harris would also push for a further "historic expansion of the child tax credit: providing up to $6,000 in total tax relief for middle-income and low-income families for the first year of their child's life when a family's expenses are highest—with cribs, diapers, car seats, and more—and many parents are still forced to forgo income as they take time off from their job."

Diane Yentel, president and CEO of the National Low Income Housing Coalition, said the proposal would also work hand-in-hand with Harris' housing plan to "positively impact families' ability to pay rent."

Vance earlier this week called for boosting the child tax credit—currently $2,000 per year—to $5,000, but Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), who proposed a package last month that would have raised the cap on the credit for low-income families, said Vance's failure to vote on the legislation exposed him as "a phony."

"If JD Vance sincerely gave a whit about working families in America, he would have shown up in the Senate a week and a half ago and voted for my proposal to expand the child tax credit and help 16 million low income kids get ahead," said Wyden. "He didn’t even care enough to use his platform to call on his Senate Republican colleagues to support it."

Maurice Mitchell, national director of the Working Families Party, said that with plans to extend tax cuts that disproportionately benefited corporations and the wealthy, "Trump and Vance are going to look out for bosses and billionaires, while Harris and [Democratic vice presidential candidate Tim] Walz are showing working people that they have their backs."

"Policies that lift up families will always be popular with voters. Working people want to see action from our federal government to address sky-high costs," said Mitchell. "By committing to take on greedflation, lower prescription drug costs, and make housing more affordable, Kamala Harris is listening to the voters she needs to turn out in November."

A Data for Progress poll late last month showed that 75% of Americans support slashing prescription drug prices, 79% support making corporations pay their fair share in taxes, and 58% support restoring the expanded child tax credit.

Joseph Geevarghese, executive director of Our Revolution, called Harris' economic agenda "a welcome step in the right direction, particularly with its focus on tackling corporate price gouging, reining in predatory corporate landlords, reducing prescription drug prices, and providing real relief to working families burdened by medical debt."

"However, to truly address the root causes of economic inequality, we must push for comprehensive reforms that dismantle the structural issues enabling corporations to exploit consumers and workers," said Geevarghese. "The Harris-Walz plan's proposals are critical first steps, but the progressive movement will be watching closely to ensure these policies are not only enacted but rigorously enforced to deliver the meaningful change that Americans desperately need."

[loving-n0t-heyting]

Nevertheless, this report should in no way be interpreted as suggesting that MAID be used to reduce health care costs.

trouble with this warning from the official economic impact paper on bill c-7—which expanded maid access significantly in 2021—is that there is no other possible lesson one could take from the report. the paper basically anticipates cost reductions from more medical killings across the board; unless there are insane ppl for whom healthcare costs are a matter of complete indifference or positive virtue, the only contribution the paper could possibly be making is as a tally mark in the "pro" column on bill c-7. so understood literally, the report seems to endorse that its findings should be completely disregarded by legislators

i propose that this is not a very plausible message and was not expected to be taken very seriously