#HealthCareCosts

[assiconicillnesschronic]

Alright, so... life can go sideways really quickly when I don't have all my medicines in stock. While I was at Target restocking, see last post, we also placed in an order with Kroger delivery and for the first time in weeks they fulfilled the meds all correctly. So now my basic first aid and allergy kit has entirely too many pills, which I will take anyday over running out.

We got 140 Kroger brand Cetrizine at 29.98. My two-thirds of that comes out to $20.00. I take at least two a day. Sometimes during peak allergy season I'll take a third pill if needed. That dose has been doctor and pharmacist approved so don't take that much unless you've talked to someone about it.

3.00 for two distilled water for my CPAP machine. I usually buy one or two jugs a month but they're is a shortage of distilled water where I am so I can't always get it. It's suppose to make your machine last longer using distilled over tap water but I haven't noticed any difference

2.49 for ibuprofen (100)

This brings my out of pocket medical expenses to 2018.75

[ivygorgon]

An open letter to the U.S. Congress

Stop overfunding Medicare Advantage!

597 so far! Help us get to 1,000 signers!

At tremendous cost to taxpayers and people with Medicare, the government has overpaid Medicare Advantage plans tens of billions of dollars for more than a decade and is projected to overpay them more than $1 trillion in the next decade. Just as the government recoups overpayments to individuals it should be recouping Medicare Advantage overpayments, not rewarding them with greater revenues. In addition to driving up costs for everyone with Medicare, it is eroding the Medicare Trust Fund. I urge you to reduce MA rates to a level commensurate with Traditional Medicare and recoup all overpayments. Thanks!

📱 Text SIGN PEBQCM to 50409

🤯 Liked it? Text FOLLOW JESSCRAVEN101 to 50409

[1critfailnews]

Lawyer gets bitten by a domestic dog under 4 feet and had to pay Thousands of Dollars to repair himself.He also sued the owner for 4 Million Dollars For Negligence

(Irresponsibility for not keeping his pet far from guests) and Intent to Harm.

Are dogs worth having as pets or as acceptable pets?Your Average Dog Food costs $500 a month.Why Americans Should Say "No" to Dogs and Cats as pets.

How animal bites costs Thousands of Dollars of Hospital Care.

[thorncliffe]

Understanding Medicare: How It Affects Retirement Home Costs

As we age, one of the most significant concerns that arises is how to cover healthcare costs in retirement, especially if long-term care is needed. Many seniors look to Medicare, the federal health insurance program, as a solution to ease these burdens. But while Medicare offers critical assistance with healthcare expenses, its coverage is limited when it comes to the costs associated with living in a retirement home. In this blog post, we'll break down the various ways Medicare interacts with retirement home costs and how you can prepare for the financial challenges of senior living.

What is Medicare?

Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for people aged 65 or older, though it also covers certain younger individuals with disabilities or specific health conditions, like end-stage renal disease. Medicare helps cover the cost of healthcare services, such as hospital stays, physician services, and some prescription drugs. However, it's important to note that Medicare was not designed to cover the full spectrum of healthcare services seniors may need, especially in terms of long-term care.

Medicare has four main parts:

Part A – Hospital Insurance: Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facilities (SNF) care, hospice care, and some home health care services.

Part B – Medical Insurance: Covers outpatient care, doctor’s visits, preventive services, and some home health care services.

Part C – Medicare Advantage Plans: These are private health plans that combine the benefits of Parts A and B, and often include additional services like prescription drug coverage.

Part D – Prescription Drug Coverage: Covers the cost of prescription medications.

Medicare and Retirement Homes

Retirement homes, also known as assisted living facilities, independent living communities, or long-term care facilities, are designed to provide a variety of services and levels of care for seniors. They range from independent living environments to nursing homes, which offer more intensive care for those with medical needs. Unfortunately, Medicare does not cover the cost of room and board in these settings. Let's look at how Medicare addresses different types of care associated with retirement homes.

1. Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Care

Medicare Part A provides coverage for skilled nursing facility (SNF) care, but only under specific conditions. To qualify for this coverage, you must have been hospitalized for at least three days prior to being admitted to a skilled nursing facility, and the care you receive must be for a condition that was treated during your hospital stay.

Medicare will cover up to 100 days of skilled nursing care in a SNF. The coverage is divided into two phases:

Days 1-20: Medicare covers the full cost.

Days 21-100: Medicare covers most costs, but you are responsible for a daily copayment (in 2024, this amount is $200 per day). After day 100, Medicare stops covering SNF care entirely.

However, there are important things to note:

Medicare only covers care that is considered “medically necessary” and requires skilled care, such as physical therapy or nursing services.

Medicare does not cover non-medical services like assistance with daily living activities (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, and eating. These services are more likely to be provided by long-term care facilities, and they come with a separate cost that is not covered by Medicare.

2. Assisted Living and Independent Living Facilities

Medicare does not cover the cost of living in an assisted living or independent living facility. These types of facilities typically provide non-medical support for seniors who need help with daily activities but do not require the level of skilled care provided in a nursing home.

Assisted living facilities may provide assistance with:

Personal care (bathing, dressing, toileting)

Medication management

Housekeeping and laundry

Social and recreational activities

However, Medicare considers these services “custodial” rather than “skilled,” and they are not covered under the program. Therefore, seniors who live in assisted living or independent living communities are responsible for the full cost of these services.

3. Home Health Care

If you're able to live independently but need medical care, Medicare can help cover the costs of home health care under Part A or Part B. Home health care may include skilled nursing services, physical therapy, or occupational therapy, but it must be medically necessary and ordered by a doctor.

Medicare covers:

Home visits by skilled nurses or therapists

Wound care

Medical equipment (e.g., wheelchairs, walkers)

Some health monitoring services

However, home health care is only available to seniors who are homebound and do not need 24-hour care. If you need more extensive care or assistance with daily activities, a retirement home will be necessary, but as mentioned, Medicare will not cover the costs for these services.

4. Hospice Care

Hospice care, which is provided to those with a terminal illness and a life expectancy of six months or less, is covered by Medicare Part A. This care is designed to improve the quality of life for those nearing the end of life and can be provided in a variety of settings, including retirement homes and nursing homes.

Hospice care typically includes:

Pain and symptom management

Emotional and spiritual support

Bereavement counseling for families

Medicare covers the full cost of hospice care, with the exception of some small out-of-pocket expenses, such as for prescription drugs unrelated to the terminal illness or certain types of equipment.

How Can Seniors Afford Retirement Home Costs?

Because Medicare does not cover the majority of long-term care costs, seniors and their families must plan for these expenses. Here are some common ways to finance the cost of living in a retirement home:

1. Private Savings and Investments

Many seniors rely on personal savings, pensions, or investments to cover the costs of retirement homes. It’s important to plan ahead and understand how much of your savings may be needed for long-term care.

2. Long-Term Care Insurance

Long-term care insurance is designed to cover services like assisted living, nursing home care, and home health care that are not covered by Medicare. These policies can be expensive, but they provide a way to help manage the cost of senior care.

3. Medicaid

While Medicare does not cover long-term care in most cases, Medicaid, a joint federal and state program for low-income individuals, may help cover the costs of care in a nursing home for those who qualify. Medicaid eligibility depends on income, assets, and other factors. However, Medicaid is typically only available for individuals with limited financial resources.

4. Veterans Benefits

Veterans and their spouses may be eligible for benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), which can help cover long-term care expenses in certain facilities. These benefits may include financial assistance for assisted living or nursing home care.

Conclusion

Medicare plays a crucial role in helping seniors with healthcare costs, but when it comes to retirement home expenses, its coverage is limited. While Medicare can help pay for certain types of care, like skilled nursing facility stays and hospice care, it does not cover room and board at retirement homes or the non-medical care provided in assisted living facilities. Understanding these limitations and planning for long-term care costs is essential to ensure that you or your loved ones are financially prepared for retirement.

Seniors should explore alternative financing options, such as long-term care insurance, private savings, Medicaid, or veterans benefits, to make sure they can afford the care they need. By educating yourself about Medicare and its impact on retirement home costs, you can make informed decisions and enjoy a more comfortable, financially secure retirement.

[nursing123]

CALL FOR ABSTRACT Track 11: Health Economics Present your research at the 15th American Healthcare Summit, Which Will Be Held May 14-16, 2025, in San Francisco. This CE/CME/CPD-accredited event focuses on healthcare, nursing, patient safety, and hospital management. Submit your abstract by December 15, 2024. Submit here: https://healthcare.utilitarianconferences.com/submit-abstract

[chafahelps]

Mastering the Art of Medical Bill Negotiation: Save Big on Your Healthcare Costs

Medical bills can quickly become overwhelming, but knowing how to negotiate medical bills can significantly reduce your financial burden. Whether it's a surprise hospital charge or an unexpected procedure cost, there are effective strategies you can use to lower your expenses. This guide will walk you through step-by-step methods to negotiate with healthcare providers, understand your bills, and explore financial assistance programs. Don’t let medical expenses control your finances—learn the art of negotiation and take charge of your healthcare costs today.

[drnic1]

The Bus, The Prices and Plot Twist, It’s Not Free

This month’s episode of “News You Can Use” on HealthcareNOWRadio features news from the month of September 2024 News You Can Use with your Hosts Dr Craig Joseph and Dr Nick van Terheyden The show that gives you a quick insight into the latest news, twists, turns and debacles going on in healthcare with my friend and co-host Craig Joseph, MD (@CraigJoseph) Chief Medical Officer at Nordic…

[cassandrawallac]

Ways To Finance Long-Term Health Care Expenses

Navigating the costs of long-term health care can be daunting. Here’s a brief guide to help you understand your financing options: 1.Medicare: Covers a set number of days for inpatient rehabilitation. Eligibility requires being 65+, having a disability, or end-stage renal disease. Coverage includes therapy and necessary medications, but co-payments may apply after 20 days. Consider Medigap insurance to cover co-payments. 2.Medicaid: For those with depleted resources, Medicaid offers assistance based on financial and medical need. It also protects spouses from financial hardship. 3.Long-Term Care Insurance: Provides coverage based on the plan you choose. Premiums are lower if purchased at a younger age but can be costly later. Coverage varies, so review options carefully. 4.Veterans Administration Aid: Veterans or their spouses may qualify for financial assistance. Applications can take around three months for processing. 5.Private Pay: This involves paying out-of-pocket, offering more facility choices but can be expensive, ranging from $250 to $350 per day.

Check out: Ways To Finance Long-Term Health Care Expenses

[balboamedical]

Flexible Financing with CareCredit

Looking for a way to manage healthcare expenses more easily? The CareCredit health, beauty, and wellness credit card might be the solution you need. With CareCredit, you can enjoy flexible financing options that allow you to pay over time, making it easier to fit care into your budget. Here’s why CareCredit is a great choice: 1. Promotional Financing: Offer valid on orders of $200 and above. 2. Easy Prequalification: Please do verify your eligibility you no need to pay anything and your credit score will not be affected. 3. Instant Decision: With our system, you will get approval of your application within the shortest time. 4. No Annual Fee: Enjoy financing without additional charges on one’s annual fee. CareCredit is welcome at over 266,000 providers, specialties include general care, cosmetic, emergency care, neurology, OB/GYN and orthopedic care and many others. Employer reimbursement is a suitable method of providing for the out of pocket expenses and the other expenditure that may not be covered for you and your family.

Visit: Financing

[assiconicillnesschronic]

I had such good results with the few initial otc pain relief patches I bought that I went ahead and ordered a collection of them to try out. $17.47

Pharmacy run for levothyroxine and Wellbutrin $11.11

Restocked my car first aid kit with Liquid I.V.powder. I don't love Liquid I.V. and don't use it at home. I think it's too expensive for an everyday hydration boost. I do keep it in the car and it's saved me and others from the Atlanta heat several times. $10.79

I ended up not ordering more cgms yet. I have an entire drawer of assorted meters, testing strips, lancets, wipes etc I am going to try to use up most of that first. Should save me a little money and hopefully clean that drawer up cause it's.... It's alot.

Total medical spend for 2024: $3,651.37

[prayagraj4457]

Discover essential retirement planning tips for IT professionals to secure your future, from leveraging compound interest to maximizing retirement accounts.

[healthmatter00]

Save on prescriptions: CVS card vs. online pharmacies

Save on prescriptions with CVS discount card (up to 80% off) or consider third-party options like WellRx or SingleCare. For extra savings and online refills, explore online pharmacies like HealthMatter, but always consult a doctor before using any medication.

[theindianpharma]

https://theindianpharma.com/blog-post/cost-of-omalizumab-injection-for-asthma-therapy/

Omalizumab injection, used for asthma therapy, is a targeted treatment designed to manage moderate to severe allergic asthma. This biologic medication works by binding to immunoglobulin E (IgE), preventing allergic reactions that can trigger asthma symptoms. The cost of Omalizumab can be significant, as it is a specialized treatment, but it offers substantial benefits for patients who do not respond well to traditional asthma therapies.

[chafahelps]

Mastering Medical Bill Negotiations: Tips to Save on Healthcare Costs

In this episode of our healthcare series, we dive deep into the essential topic of medical bill negotiation. With rising healthcare costs, it's crucial to understand how you can reduce your expenses by negotiating your medical bills effectively. We'll cover practical tips, strategies, and insider knowledge to help you save money, whether you're dealing with hospital bills, doctor's fees, or unexpected medical expenses. Tune in to learn how Chafa Helps can assist in advocating for you, ensuring you're not overpaying for healthcare services. Don’t miss this valuable guide to mastering medical bill negotiations and taking control of your medical finances!

[synerhealseo]

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हर साल, दुनिया भर में लाखों लोग म���ुमेह (डायबिटीज), शिरापरक रोगों (वीनस वेइंस) और अन्य चिकित्सीय स्थितियों के कारण पुराने घावों से ग्रस्त होते हैं जो एक स्वस्थ व्यक्ति के तरह सामान्य अवधि में ठीक नहीं होता हैं।

यदि इन घावों का ठीक से देखभाल न किया गया तो गंभीर जटिलताओं का कारण बन सकता हैं, जीवनशैली पर असर डाल सकता हैं एवं स्वास्थ्य देखभाल उपचार का लागत भी बढ़ सकता है।

हालाँकि, उन्नत वून्ड केयर (घाव देखभाल) चिकित्सा के उदय ने रोगी के परिणामों में क्रांति ला दी है, जो इस महत्वपूर्ण वाक्यांश पर जोर देता है:

Visit Our Website: Explore our range of products at https://synerheal.com

Contact Us: Reach out today for more information: +91 8925941222, +91 9840850075

[mirrorfitz]

Alzheimer’s Disease An Ongoing Challenge for USA

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects older adults, leading to cognitive decline, memory loss, and eventually, the inability to perform basic daily activities. It is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of cases. In the United States, Alzheimer's disease poses a significant public health challenge, impacting millions of individuals and their families. This essay explores the prevalence, risk factors, impact, current treatments, and future directions for Alzheimer's disease in the USA.

Prevalence and Demographics

As of 2024, approximately 6.2 million Americans aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer's disease. This number is expected to nearly triple by 2050, reaching 13.8 million, due to the aging baby boomer population. The prevalence of Alzheimer's increases significantly with age: about one in nine people aged 65 and older (11.3%) has Alzheimer's, and this rises to about one-third of those aged 85 and older.

The disease does not affect all demographics equally. Women are disproportionately affected, accounting for nearly two-thirds of those with Alzheimer's. This higher prevalence in women is partly because they tend to live longer than men. Additionally, certain racial and ethnic groups, such as African Americans and Hispanics, are at higher risk compared to non-Hispanic whites. African Americans are about twice as likely and Hispanics about one and a half times as likely to have Alzheimer's or other dementias.

Risk Factors

Several risk factors contribute to the likelihood of developing Alzheimer's disease. Age is the most significant risk factor, but genetics also play a crucial role. Individuals with a family history of Alzheimer's are more likely to develop the disease. Specific genetic mutations, such as those in the APOE-e4 gene, increase the risk as well.

Lifestyle and environmental factors also influence the development of Alzheimer's. Cardiovascular health is closely linked to brain health, with conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol increasing the risk. Other factors include smoking, physical inactivity, poor diet, and lack of cognitive engagement. Recent studies have highlighted the potential role of social isolation and depression in increasing the risk of Alzheimer's disease.

Impact on Individuals and Society

The impact of Alzheimer's disease extends beyond the individuals diagnosed, affecting their families, caregivers, and society at large. The progressive nature of the disease means that individuals gradually lose their independence, requiring increasing levels of care. This places a significant emotional and physical burden on family caregivers, who often experience high levels of stress, depression, and health problems themselves.

Economically, Alzheimer's disease is one of the most costly conditions in the United States. In 2023, the direct costs to American society of caring for those with Alzheimer's and other dementias were estimated at $345 billion, including $239 billion in Medicare and Medicaid payments. These costs are expected to rise sharply as the population ages. Additionally, the unpaid care provided by family members is valued at $271 billion annually.

Current Treatments and Research

Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, and existing treatments focus primarily on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several medications for Alzheimer's, including cholinesterase inhibitors (such as donepezil, rivastigmine, and galantamine) and NMDA receptor antagonists (such as memantine). These drugs can help manage symptoms but do not halt the progression of the disease.

Recent advancements have been made in developing disease-modifying therapies aimed at targeting the underlying pathology of Alzheimer's. In 2021, the FDA approved aducanumab, the first drug designed to reduce amyloid-beta plaques in the brain, a hallmark of Alzheimer's. This approval sparked both hope and controversy due to debates over the drug's efficacy and cost.

Research efforts continue to explore various avenues, including targeting tau protein tangles, reducing inflammation, and enhancing brain plasticity. Lifestyle interventions, such as physical exercise, cognitive training, and dietary modifications, are also being studied for their potential to prevent or delay the onset of Alzheimer's.

Public Health Initiatives and Future Directions

Addressing the Alzheimer's crisis requires comprehensive public health strategies. The National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease, updated annually, outlines goals to prevent and effectively treat Alzheimer's by 2025. Key initiatives include increasing funding for research, improving care quality and efficiency, expanding support for caregivers, and raising public awareness about the disease.

Community-based programs and services play a crucial role in supporting individuals with Alzheimer's and their families. Memory care centers, adult day care programs, and respite care services provide much-needed assistance. Education and training for healthcare professionals are essential to ensure early diagnosis and proper management of the disease.

Looking ahead, the future of Alzheimer's research holds promise with advancements in biotechnology, genomics, and artificial intelligence. Early diagnosis through biomarkers and advanced imaging techniques is becoming increasingly feasible, allowing for timely intervention. Personalized medicine, tailored to an individual's genetic and biological profile, is a growing field with potential to improve treatment outcomes.

Conclusion

Alzheimer's disease remains a formidable challenge in the United States, with its prevalence set to rise dramatically in the coming decades. The impact on individuals, families, and the healthcare system is profound, necessitating urgent action on multiple fronts. While current treatments offer some relief, the pursuit of effective disease-modifying therapies continues. Public health initiatives, combined with innovative research, hold the key to changing the trajectory of Alzheimer's disease and ultimately finding a cure. As society grapples with this growing epidemic, a collective effort towards understanding, managing, and preventing Alzheimer's is more critical than ever.

For additional insights and expert analysis on Alzheimer’s disease, consider exploring articles and reports by Dr. Sanjay Gupta, Chief Medical Correspondent at CNN. Dr. Gupta's expertise and comprehensive coverage of health-related topics can provide valuable perspectives and in-depth understanding of Alzheimer’s and its impact.