Monday, January 2, 2012
From the web by Elaine Steward #26
Happy NewYear, everyone! For 2012, I have decided that rather than continue with this blog, similar information will be available in an e-newsletter. Anyone is welcome to subscribe. Email me at esslady@gmail.com and your name will be added to the somewhere between monthly and bi-monthly mailing. Thanks for your support.
Monday, November 28, 2011
From the web by Elaine Steward #25
Hi again from Elaine Steward! Following, is my most recent list of things which may be of general interest to us retirees. If have something you’d like to share, please post it to the comments section at the end of this blog.
The enrollment period for 2012 Medicare Part D (prescription drug) coverage will begin on 15 October 2011 and will end on 7 December 2011. These dates are different from those used in prior years.
For instructions on how to use the Medicare plan finder, go to www.mymedicarematters.org/PrescriptionDrugs/Instructions/instructions.php
For other open enrollment help, go to www.ncoa.org/enhance-economic-security/benefits-access/5-things-about-open-enrollment.html
Technical support professionals say that users create the need for at least half of all computer repairs by unknowingly damaging their machines.
www.nytimes.com/2011/09/29/technology/personaltech/tips-for-avoiding-user-errors-with-computers.html?emc=eta1
Looking for a better price on prescription drugs? This website compares prices (before insurance discounts – that’s the price which is used to calculate when you reach the “donut hole”) www.goodrx.com/
For an EXCELLENT description of the benefits of thorough estate planning, take a look at www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2011/11/27/reader-story-what-my-fathers-death-taught-me-about-estate-planning/
1) From AARP – bulletin.aarp.org
For a to-do list of estate planning, go to www.aarp.org/money/estate-planning/info-10-2011/estate-planning-to-do-list.html?cmp=NLC-WBLTR-CTRL-110411-F4t-23&USEG_ID=6388998522
For email safety basics, go to www.aarp.org/technology/how-to-guides/info-05http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif-2011/more-email-safety-basics.html
2) From Aging in Stride – www.aginginstride.org
http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
For guidance on safety during the holidays, see aginginstride.enewsworks.com/en/13/articles/287/Safety-Tips-for-the-Holiday-Season.htm
3) From California Healthline – www.californiahealthline.org/
http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
Blue Shield To Return $295M as Part of Pledge To Limit Profits On [13 Oct] Blue Shield of California announced plans to return a total of $295 million to comply with a pledge it made earlier this year to cap profits at 2%...(Rauber, San Francisco Business Times, 10/13).
Obama Opposes Repeal of CLASS Act Despite Suspension of Program On [17 Oct] White House officials said President Obama strongly opposes repealing the Community Living Assistance Services and Supports Act, despite the administration's decision [14 Oct] to suspend the program indefinitely, The Hill's "Healthwatch" reports.
Study: Most Employers To Continue Coverage Under Health Reform Most employers will continue to offer health coverage to their workers after the federal health reform law is fully implemented, according to a study by the Urban Institute, CQ HealthBeat reports.
Health Board for Native Communities Pursues Plan To Expand Care The California Rural Indian Health Board is aiming to form a consortium of tribes to expand health care coverage in 37 California counties for Native Americans and Native Alaskans, HealthyCal reports.
Brown To Propose Reform for Pensions, Retiree Health Care On [27 Oct] Gov. Jerry Brown (D) plans to propose steps to overhaul California's public pension system in part by increasing how much workers pay toward their retirement and health care costs… The plan aims to reduce spending by about $900 million annually (AP/Washington Post, 10/26).
Medicare Premium Increase To Be Less Than Expected Monthly premiums for Medicare Part B, which covers physician visits and outpatient procedures, will rise by $3.50 next year to $99.90. Earlier this year, Medicare trustees projected that premiums would increase by $10.20. Obama administration officials attributed the lower rates in part to cost-cutting provisions under the federal health reform law and beneficiaries' lower use of services
LAO: Calif. Falls $3.7B Short of Fiscal Year's Revenue Expectations On [16 Nov] the non-partisan Legislative Analyst's Office released a report projecting that California will be $3.7 billion short of revenue expectations this fiscal year, raising the possibility that additional cuts to education, and health and human services programs will be needed… (Herdt, Ventura County Star, 11/16).
Study: Medicare Part D Copays To Rise Up to 40% Copayments for preferred brand-name drugs under Medicare's prescription drug plans are expected to increase by an average of 40% in 2012, while copays for non-preferred brand-name medications likely will increase by an average of 30%, according to a new Avalere Health study. Avalere noted that the study highlights how Medicare has started to shift costs to patients with chronic conditions who require more costly types of medications, while encouraging beneficiaries to select less costly generics to manage their conditions. Medicare officials challenged the findings of the study, noting that it is based on broad averages of the prices in the drug plans.
State High Court Ruling Supports Retiree Rights to Health Benefits The California Supreme Court has unanimously decided that a city or county cannot pare back health benefits for retired workers if it previously set coverage at a certain level and implied that the level would be maintained… (Egelko, San Francisco Chronicle, 11/22).
5) I do hope you are all following the (USC) Dean’s Council on Health Reform at www.healthreform.usc.edu/ It is a very rich site.
6) From iHealthBeat - www.ihealthbeat.org/
HHS Issues Warning About Fake Health Care Reform Website On [12 Oct] HHS sent an email to consumer groups warning them about a private website that poses as an official information hub for the federal health reform law's Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan, Politico reports.
Indian Health Services CIO Calls for Expanding Access to Telehealth Testifying before the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, Indian Health Services acting CIO Howard Hays said that developing policies aimed at eliminating barriers to the adoption of telehealth technology will improve health care access and reduce costs for American Indians and Alaska Natives, InformationWeek reports.
Philanthropists Launch Technology-Focused Health Investment Fund On [19 Oct] California philanthropists Gary and Mary West announced the launch of a $100 million investment fund for health care companies that are working to improve care and lower costs, the San Diego Union-Tribune reports.
Physicians' Use of Text Messages Sparks HIPAA Compliance Concerns Most physicians use text messaging to exchange patient information with other health care providers, but such communication could be a violation of federal privacy and security rules, experts said during a webinar Monday, BNA reports.
State Officials Worried About Sustainability of Health Data Exchanges Some state officials are concerned that new health information exchanges will not be able to sustain themselves after funds from the 2009 federal economic stimulus package run out, iWatch News reports.
VA To Offer Telehealth Services To Veterans Through New Initiative The Department of Veterans Affairs and American Well recently announced an initiative to provide telehealth services to veterans in their homes, workplaces and other locations using American Well's platform, Healthcare IT News reports (Monegain, Healthcare IT News, 11/7).
Bill Aims To Help Rural Clinics Get Medicare EHR Incentive Pay Rep. Aaron Schock (R-Ill.) has introduced a bill (HR 3458) that would make rural health clinics eligible for Medicare incentive payments under the meaningful use program, CQ HealthBeat reports.
7) From Kaiser Health News – www.kaiserhealthnews.org/
Cancer Patients Could Benefit From Greater Use Of Rehabilitation Reporting for Kaiser Health News, in collaboration with The Washington Post, Judith Graham writes: “Cancer rehabilitation focuses on problems that patients often experience after treatment, including fatigue, unsteadiness, pain, muscle weakness, swelling in their arms and legs, difficulty swallowing, numbness in the hands and feet, and cognitive changes” (Graham, 10/10). Read a related story: Offering Rehab Services Soon After Diagnosis Proves Beneficial (Kaiser Health News, Graham, 10/10).
Social Security To Hand Out First Raises Since ’09 Social Security recipients will get a raise in January — their first increase in benefits since 2009. It's expected to be about 3.5 percent. Some 55 million beneficiaries will find out for sure Wednesday when a government inflation measure that determines the annual cost-of-living adjustment is released. … Some of the increase in January will be lost to higher Medicare premiums, which are deducted from Social Security payments. Medicare Part B premiums for 2012 are expected to be announced next week, and the trustees who oversee the program are projecting an increase (Associated Press/Los Angeles Times 10/18).
Between A Hygienist And A Dentist, A Hard Sell Kansas Public Radio reporter Bryan Thompson filed this story as part of a reporting partnership that includes Kaiser Health News, Kansas Public Radio and NPR: “In Kansas and a few other states, advocates and some lawmakers want to solve this problem by creating a new level of dental care. A registered dental practitioner, or RDP, would have more training than a dental hygienist, but less than a dentist. Mid-level dental providers have been practicing in Alaska since 2005, and legislation has recently passed in Minnesota to establish the new level of care. Bills have been introduced in Ohio, New Mexico, Vermont and Washington” (Kaiser Health News,Thompson, 10/25).
By agreeing [on 14 Nov] to hear challenges to President Obama's 2010 health care law, the Supreme Court set the stage for a decision -- probably in late June and in the midst of the presidential campaign -- that could be among its most important in decades. Kaiser Health News, Taylor For an analysis, go to www.kaiserhealthnews.org/Stories/2011/November/14/stuart-taylor-supreme-court-health-law-hearing-analysis.aspx
Health Insurance Rate Hike Requests Go Online Consumers can check out detailed information regarding health insurers' rate hike requests on a new website set up by the state Department of Financial Services (Associated Press/Wall Street Journal 11/17).
8) From My Medicare Matters – www.mymedicarecommunity.org/
My Medicare Matters offers Webinars (live on-line training) for those who are Medicare advocates. If you are interested in being notified of training sessions, please contact me at esslady@gmail.com
9) From NCOA – www.ncoa.org
[NCOA/s] Reverse Mortgage Counseling Services Network is one of five national counseling groups approved by the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development. To schedule a counseling session, call toll-free (800) 510-0301.
Don’t forget the six-week on-line course for managing chronic diseases at selfmanage.org/BetterHealth/SignUp
10) From The New York Times – nytdirect@nytimes.com
Plan Would Delay Sales of Generic for Lipitor The biggest introduction of a generic drug in pharmaceutical history is being met with tough business strategies by Pfizer and pharmacy benefit companies, according to recent letters to pharmacists. Many drugstores are being asked to block prescriptions for a generic version of Pfizer’s Lipitor starting Dec. 1, when the company loses its patent for the blockbuster cholesterol drug and generic competition begins.
The enrollment period for 2012 Medicare Part D (prescription drug) coverage will begin on 15 October 2011 and will end on 7 December 2011. These dates are different from those used in prior years.
For instructions on how to use the Medicare plan finder, go to www.mymedicarematters.org/PrescriptionDrugs/Instructions/instructions.php
For other open enrollment help, go to www.ncoa.org/enhance-economic-security/benefits-access/5-things-about-open-enrollment.html
Technical support professionals say that users create the need for at least half of all computer repairs by unknowingly damaging their machines.
www.nytimes.com/2011/09/29/technology/personaltech/tips-for-avoiding-user-errors-with-computers.html?emc=eta1
Looking for a better price on prescription drugs? This website compares prices (before insurance discounts – that’s the price which is used to calculate when you reach the “donut hole”) www.goodrx.com/
For an EXCELLENT description of the benefits of thorough estate planning, take a look at www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2011/11/27/reader-story-what-my-fathers-death-taught-me-about-estate-planning/
1) From AARP – bulletin.aarp.org
For a to-do list of estate planning, go to www.aarp.org/money/estate-planning/info-10-2011/estate-planning-to-do-list.html?cmp=NLC-WBLTR-CTRL-110411-F4t-23&USEG_ID=6388998522
For email safety basics, go to www.aarp.org/technology/how-to-guides/info-05http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif-2011/more-email-safety-basics.html
2) From Aging in Stride – www.aginginstride.org
http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
For guidance on safety during the holidays, see aginginstride.enewsworks.com/en/13/articles/287/Safety-Tips-for-the-Holiday-Season.htm
3) From California Healthline – www.californiahealthline.org/
http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
Blue Shield To Return $295M as Part of Pledge To Limit Profits On [13 Oct] Blue Shield of California announced plans to return a total of $295 million to comply with a pledge it made earlier this year to cap profits at 2%...(Rauber, San Francisco Business Times, 10/13).
Obama Opposes Repeal of CLASS Act Despite Suspension of Program On [17 Oct] White House officials said President Obama strongly opposes repealing the Community Living Assistance Services and Supports Act, despite the administration's decision [14 Oct] to suspend the program indefinitely, The Hill's "Healthwatch" reports.
Study: Most Employers To Continue Coverage Under Health Reform Most employers will continue to offer health coverage to their workers after the federal health reform law is fully implemented, according to a study by the Urban Institute, CQ HealthBeat reports.
Health Board for Native Communities Pursues Plan To Expand Care The California Rural Indian Health Board is aiming to form a consortium of tribes to expand health care coverage in 37 California counties for Native Americans and Native Alaskans, HealthyCal reports.
Brown To Propose Reform for Pensions, Retiree Health Care On [27 Oct] Gov. Jerry Brown (D) plans to propose steps to overhaul California's public pension system in part by increasing how much workers pay toward their retirement and health care costs… The plan aims to reduce spending by about $900 million annually (AP/Washington Post, 10/26).
Medicare Premium Increase To Be Less Than Expected Monthly premiums for Medicare Part B, which covers physician visits and outpatient procedures, will rise by $3.50 next year to $99.90. Earlier this year, Medicare trustees projected that premiums would increase by $10.20. Obama administration officials attributed the lower rates in part to cost-cutting provisions under the federal health reform law and beneficiaries' lower use of services
LAO: Calif. Falls $3.7B Short of Fiscal Year's Revenue Expectations On [16 Nov] the non-partisan Legislative Analyst's Office released a report projecting that California will be $3.7 billion short of revenue expectations this fiscal year, raising the possibility that additional cuts to education, and health and human services programs will be needed… (Herdt, Ventura County Star, 11/16).
Study: Medicare Part D Copays To Rise Up to 40% Copayments for preferred brand-name drugs under Medicare's prescription drug plans are expected to increase by an average of 40% in 2012, while copays for non-preferred brand-name medications likely will increase by an average of 30%, according to a new Avalere Health study. Avalere noted that the study highlights how Medicare has started to shift costs to patients with chronic conditions who require more costly types of medications, while encouraging beneficiaries to select less costly generics to manage their conditions. Medicare officials challenged the findings of the study, noting that it is based on broad averages of the prices in the drug plans.
State High Court Ruling Supports Retiree Rights to Health Benefits The California Supreme Court has unanimously decided that a city or county cannot pare back health benefits for retired workers if it previously set coverage at a certain level and implied that the level would be maintained… (Egelko, San Francisco Chronicle, 11/22).
5) I do hope you are all following the (USC) Dean’s Council on Health Reform at www.healthreform.usc.edu/ It is a very rich site.
6) From iHealthBeat - www.ihealthbeat.org/
HHS Issues Warning About Fake Health Care Reform Website On [12 Oct] HHS sent an email to consumer groups warning them about a private website that poses as an official information hub for the federal health reform law's Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan, Politico reports.
Indian Health Services CIO Calls for Expanding Access to Telehealth Testifying before the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, Indian Health Services acting CIO Howard Hays said that developing policies aimed at eliminating barriers to the adoption of telehealth technology will improve health care access and reduce costs for American Indians and Alaska Natives, InformationWeek reports.
Philanthropists Launch Technology-Focused Health Investment Fund On [19 Oct] California philanthropists Gary and Mary West announced the launch of a $100 million investment fund for health care companies that are working to improve care and lower costs, the San Diego Union-Tribune reports.
Physicians' Use of Text Messages Sparks HIPAA Compliance Concerns Most physicians use text messaging to exchange patient information with other health care providers, but such communication could be a violation of federal privacy and security rules, experts said during a webinar Monday, BNA reports.
State Officials Worried About Sustainability of Health Data Exchanges Some state officials are concerned that new health information exchanges will not be able to sustain themselves after funds from the 2009 federal economic stimulus package run out, iWatch News reports.
VA To Offer Telehealth Services To Veterans Through New Initiative The Department of Veterans Affairs and American Well recently announced an initiative to provide telehealth services to veterans in their homes, workplaces and other locations using American Well's platform, Healthcare IT News reports (Monegain, Healthcare IT News, 11/7).
Bill Aims To Help Rural Clinics Get Medicare EHR Incentive Pay Rep. Aaron Schock (R-Ill.) has introduced a bill (HR 3458) that would make rural health clinics eligible for Medicare incentive payments under the meaningful use program, CQ HealthBeat reports.
7) From Kaiser Health News – www.kaiserhealthnews.org/
Cancer Patients Could Benefit From Greater Use Of Rehabilitation Reporting for Kaiser Health News, in collaboration with The Washington Post, Judith Graham writes: “Cancer rehabilitation focuses on problems that patients often experience after treatment, including fatigue, unsteadiness, pain, muscle weakness, swelling in their arms and legs, difficulty swallowing, numbness in the hands and feet, and cognitive changes” (Graham, 10/10). Read a related story: Offering Rehab Services Soon After Diagnosis Proves Beneficial (Kaiser Health News, Graham, 10/10).
Social Security To Hand Out First Raises Since ’09 Social Security recipients will get a raise in January — their first increase in benefits since 2009. It's expected to be about 3.5 percent. Some 55 million beneficiaries will find out for sure Wednesday when a government inflation measure that determines the annual cost-of-living adjustment is released. … Some of the increase in January will be lost to higher Medicare premiums, which are deducted from Social Security payments. Medicare Part B premiums for 2012 are expected to be announced next week, and the trustees who oversee the program are projecting an increase (Associated Press/Los Angeles Times 10/18).
Between A Hygienist And A Dentist, A Hard Sell Kansas Public Radio reporter Bryan Thompson filed this story as part of a reporting partnership that includes Kaiser Health News, Kansas Public Radio and NPR: “In Kansas and a few other states, advocates and some lawmakers want to solve this problem by creating a new level of dental care. A registered dental practitioner, or RDP, would have more training than a dental hygienist, but less than a dentist. Mid-level dental providers have been practicing in Alaska since 2005, and legislation has recently passed in Minnesota to establish the new level of care. Bills have been introduced in Ohio, New Mexico, Vermont and Washington” (Kaiser Health News,Thompson, 10/25).
By agreeing [on 14 Nov] to hear challenges to President Obama's 2010 health care law, the Supreme Court set the stage for a decision -- probably in late June and in the midst of the presidential campaign -- that could be among its most important in decades. Kaiser Health News, Taylor For an analysis, go to www.kaiserhealthnews.org/Stories/2011/November/14/stuart-taylor-supreme-court-health-law-hearing-analysis.aspx
Health Insurance Rate Hike Requests Go Online Consumers can check out detailed information regarding health insurers' rate hike requests on a new website set up by the state Department of Financial Services (Associated Press/Wall Street Journal 11/17).
8) From My Medicare Matters – www.mymedicarecommunity.org/
My Medicare Matters offers Webinars (live on-line training) for those who are Medicare advocates. If you are interested in being notified of training sessions, please contact me at esslady@gmail.com
9) From NCOA – www.ncoa.org
[NCOA/s] Reverse Mortgage Counseling Services Network is one of five national counseling groups approved by the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development. To schedule a counseling session, call toll-free (800) 510-0301.
Don’t forget the six-week on-line course for managing chronic diseases at selfmanage.org/BetterHealth/SignUp
10) From The New York Times – nytdirect@nytimes.com
Plan Would Delay Sales of Generic for Lipitor The biggest introduction of a generic drug in pharmaceutical history is being met with tough business strategies by Pfizer and pharmacy benefit companies, according to recent letters to pharmacists. Many drugstores are being asked to block prescriptions for a generic version of Pfizer’s Lipitor starting Dec. 1, when the company loses its patent for the blockbuster cholesterol drug and generic competition begins.
Monday, October 10, 2011
From the Web by Elaine Steward #24
Hi again from Elaine Steward! Following, is my most recent list of things which may be of general interest to us retirees. If have something you’d like to share, please post it to the comments section at the end of this blog.
The enrollment period for 2012 Medicare Part D (prescription drug) coverage will begin on 15 October 2011 and will end on 7 December 2011. These dates are different from those used in prior years.
If you are a caregiver, you may find some support and/or ideas at this website: www.caregiving.com/
Is it time for dinner and you have 2-3 ingredients but can’t think what to make? Check out www.gojee.com/
For a checklist which asks about falling hazards found in each room of your home, including how to fix the problem go to www.cdc.gov/ncipc/pub-res/toolkit/cksafety.pdf (At the end of the checklist, you will find other tips for preventing falls); for more specific recommendations to prevent falls, go to www.mnsafetycouncil.org/seniorsafe/falls/index.cfm
If you are caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or another form of cognitive impairment, the College of Public Health at the University of Florida has on-line support for caregivers at alzonline.phhp.ufl.edu/en/topics/
You may be eligible for help with medical and other basic needs. To find out, go to www.benefitscheckup.org/
If you want a summary of the reasons for the Social Security/Medicare Trust Fund being in trouble, go to www.urban.org/publications/1001553.html
For a look at possible models for California’s Health Benefit Exchanges, go to www.chcf.org/publications/2011/08/health-benefit-exchange-visions
[The] Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 … requires the financial services industry to report their customers' cost basis to the IRS as part of Tax Form 1099-B, beginning in 2011 and phased through 2013 … subject to … changes by the IRS.
If your Internet or cell phone provider limits the amount of bandwidth you use, tips for minimizing usage can be found at www.nytimes.com/2011/10/06/technology/personaltech/tightening-your-data-belt.html?_r=1&nl=technology&emc=ctb1&pagewanted=print
For what to do in a case of identity theft, and information on how to avoid it happening to you, go to www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/
For a list of the top ten ways to get your computer infected with malware, and how to prevent that from happening, go to antivirus.about.com/od/securitytips/tp/badsecurityhahttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifbits.htm?p=1
1) From AARP – bulletin.aarp.org
For a list of 9 types of medications which older people should take with caution, go to www.aarp.org/health/drugs-supplements/info-07-2011/medications-older-adults-should-use-with-caution.html?cmp=NLC-WBLTR-CTRL-090211-F1-1&USEG_ID=6388998522
If you get a "security alert" from a bank or credit card company, don't click on e-mail links or call the number listed, in case it's fake. Instead, use a phone number you know to be authentic.
If your Social Security number is stolen, ask the credit bureaus to freeze your credit reports.
Find programs that help save money on health care, medication, food, utilities, children’s health costs and more! Go to aarpkb.benefitscheckup.org/moreprhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifograms.cfm?subset_id=49&partner_id=22&CFID=5423451&CFTOKEN=62850227
For the five most common retirement planning mistakes, go to www.aarp.org/work/retirement-planning/info-01-2011/common_retirement_mistakes.html?cmp=NLC-WBLTR-CTRL-093011-FT2-98&USEG_ID=6388998522
If you are a traveler, you might like this site for finding hotels (complete with map) and flights www.hipmunk.com/
2) From California Healthline – www.californiahealthline.org/
Rule Requiring Insurers To Post Reasons for Rate Increases Takes Effect [At the beginning of September], a new rule in the federal health reform law took effect that will allow the Obama administration and states to require health insurers to justify proposed rate increases of more than 10%, the Wall Street Journal reports.
Institute of Medicine Finds No Link Between Immunizations, Autism There is no evidence suggesting a link between vaccines and autism, according to an Institute of Medicine report released on [1 Sept], the New York Times reports (Harris,8/25).
Health Industry Likely To Back Automatic Cuts Over New Budget Plan The health care industry likely will push for the newly formed debt panel to allow automatic spending cuts to take effect instead of developing new budget cuts of at least $1.5 trillion, according to lobbyists and health care groups, Reuters reports (Reid/Yukhananov, 9/6).
President's New Deficit Reduction Plan Includes Cuts to Health Programs On [19 Sep] President Obama released a proposal to reduce the federal deficit by $3 trillion over the next 10 years, in part by making cuts to Medicare and Medicaid. (Baker, "Healthwatch," The Hill, 9/19).
Poll: People Aware of Long-Term Care Needs but Are Not Prepared Many Californians are highly aware of their future need for long-term care, but few are preparing financially for it, according to a poll commissioned by the California Partnership for Long-Term Care, HealthyCal reports.
Caregivers' Stress Remains Hot Topic UCLA researcher Geoff Hoffman is a little alarmed. His study took a look at the health risks of caregivers in California and found that http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifthe emotional and financial load of stress on caregivers in California may be causing the caregivers themselves to develop chronic health conditions
Blue Shield of California To End Coverage of Avastin for Breast Cancer Blue Shield of California no longer will pay for the drug Avastin for treatment of breast cancer, making the company the first large health insurer to end coverage for the drug, the New York Times reports
3) From Carepages – www.carepages.com
For suggestions on how to rebuild your social life after the loss of a partner, go to cms.carepages.com/CarePages/en/ArticlesTips/FeatureArticles/Contributors/rebuilding-your-social-life-after-loss.html?xid=nl_EverydayCaringFromCarePages_20110929
4) I do hope you are all following the (USC) Dean’s Council on Health Reform at www.healthreform.usc.edu/ It is a very rich site
5) From iHealthBeat - www.ihealthbeat.org/
Groups Launch Website, Campaign To Engage Patients on Care Quality The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has teamed up with the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT and the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality to launch a new project called "Care About Your Care" to help consumers better understand health care quality issues, Government Health IT reports (Mosquera, 9/1).
ONC Releases Final Version of Federal Health IT Strategic Plan On [12 Sep] the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT released an 80-page final version of its Federal Health IT Strategic Plan for 2011 through 2015, Modern Healthcare reports (Conn, Modern Healthcare, 9/12). The agency issued the final plan after receiving about 240 public comments on the draft plan that it released in March.
Measure Would Create Digital Smartcards for Medicare Beneficiaries Lawmakers in the House and Senate have introduced legislation to create a smartcard system for Medicare. The program would issue digitized cards to beneficiaries and health care providers in an effort to reduce fraud, cut costs and increase efficiency. InformationWeek et al.
FCC Seeks Comment on Expanding Mobile Phone Use During Emergencies [The week of 19 September] the Federal Communications Commission issued a notice of proposed rulemaking for a next-generation 911 system that would allow mobile phone users to contact emergency responders using pictures, videos or text messages, Computerworld reports.http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
Researchers Modify iPhone for High-Quality Medical Imaging The Optical Society of America recently announced that University of California-Davis researchers have modified Apple's iPhone and transformed it into a low-cost, high-quality medical imaging device for analyzing blood samples, United Press International reports.
6) From Kaiser Health News – www.kaiserhealthnews.org/
For Many Seniors, There May Be No Retirement Many older people are finding themselves in a position they never expected to be in at retirement age: still working or in need of a job. … More than three in five U.S. workers in their 50s and 60s plan on working past 65 -- and 47% of that group say they'll do so because they'll need the money or health benefits, according to a 2011 study from the nonprofit Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies (Wall Street Journal, Ensign, 8/21).
Administration May Give States Second Chance To Avoid Federally Run Insurance Exchange The Obama administration said Tuesday that states that have not adopted their own insurance exchanges may get a second chance to avoid getting one run solely by the federal government. Only 11 states have fully embraced the idea of taking federal money to set up their own state-run insurance exchange, a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services official said Tuesday. The exchange, a key part of Obama’s health care overhaul, is designed to help uninsured people buy coverage from a choice of plans with federal tax credits (Asociated Press/Washington Post, 8/23).
NIH Finalizes Financial Conflict Of Interest Rules The National Institutes of Health has finalized rules to reduce financial conflicts of interests among federally funded researchers who also receive payments or stock from drug and medical device companies. The rules, which will affect more than 40,000 researchers, come after a string of high profile cases in which federally funded researchers failed to disclose millions of dollars from companies with a financial interest in the outcome of their work (Washington Post, Vastag, 8/23).
WellPoint’s New Hire. What Is Watson? WellPoint Inc. and International Business Machines Corp. are set to announce a deal on [12 Sep] for the health insurer to use the Watson technology, the first time the high-profile project will result in a commercial application. WellPoint said it plans to use Watson's data-crunching to help suggest treatment options and diagnoses to doctors. It is part of a far broader push in the health industry to incorporate computerized guidance into care, as doctors and hospitals adopt electronic medical records and other digital tools that can record, track and check their work (Wall Street Journal, Mathews, 9/12).
Actuaries To ‘Super Committee’: Slow Overall Health Spending, Not Just Medicare Now on KHN’s news blog, Marilyn Werber Serafini writes: “The deficit reduction “super committee” should act to slow the growth of health care spending overall – not just in Medicare – as it rolls up its sleeves, says the American Academy of Actuaries. “Achieving long-term sustainability for Medicare will require slowing the growth in overall health spending, not simply shifting costs from one payer to another,” said senior health fellow Cori Uccello.“
Long-Term Care Program In Doubt The Obama administration said it may not enact a long-term-care insurance program included in last year's legislation that overhauled health care. The initiative, known as the Class Act, was designed to help Americans cover the cost of aid for daily living needs such as bathing and using the toilet should they become too old or sick to care for themselves. It became law when President Barack Obama signed the health-care overhaul in 2010, though the program hasn't begun operating. Amid mounting concerns about its fiscal sustainability, officials at the Department of Health and Human Services on Thursday said they may not go forward with the program. "It is an open question whether the program will be implemented," the agency said (Wall Street Journal, Adamy, 9/23).
If you’re a Medicare patient admitted to the hospital, the odds are about one in six that you’ll end up back in the hospital within a month. And there was very little progress made in reducing that rate between 2004-09. That’s the not-so-good news from a new report by the folks at the Dartmouth Atlas Project, which tracks variations in medical care across the U.S. The report also found that more than half of Medicare patients who left the hospital didn’t see a primary-care doctor within two weeks of discharge — identified as a contributing factor to the revolving-door problem (Wall Street Journal Hobson, 9/28).
In New Term, Supreme Court To Tackle Divisive Issues The constitutional challenge to President Obama's health care overhaul almost certainly will be decided this term, but at this point it has not formally made it onto the docket. Also making their way to the court are cases involving almost every hot-button issue in America: immigration; affirmative action; gay marriage; and the constitutionality of the Defense of Marriage Act, the federal law barring federal recognition of gay marriage even in states where it is legal (NPR,Totenberg, 10/3).
Gray Market Threatens Drug Supply Shortages in critical drugs have tripled in the past five years, killing some patients, delaying surgeries and disrupting chemotherapy treatments at hospitals around the country. There are several causes, and they’re all complicated: The Food and Drug Administration doesn’t have enough resources to enforce strict regulations; there are manufacturing disruptions in aging facilities; and slim profit margins may discourage production in the first place (Politico Norman, 10/3).
U.S. Panel Says No To Prostate Screening For Healthy Men Healthy men should no longer receive a P.S.A. blood test to screen for prostate cancer because the test does not save lives over all and often leads to more tests and treatments that needlessly cause pain, impotence and incontinence in many, a key government health panel has decided (New York Times Harris, 10/6).
7) From My Medicare Matters – www.mymedicarecommunity.org/
My Medicare Matters offers Webinars (live on-line training) for those who are Medicare advocates. If you are interested in being notified of training sessions, please contact me at esslady@gmail.com
8) From NCOA – www.ncoa.org
[NCOA/s] Reverse Mortgage Counseling Services Network is one of five national counseling groups approved by the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development. To schedule a counseling session, call toll-free (800) 510-0301.
Don’t forget the six-week on-line course for managing chronic diseases at selfmanage.org/BetterHealth/SignUp http:
For a chart which shows newly free (no co-payment) Medicare benefits, see www.centerforbenefits.org/downloads/Medicare-Preventive-Benefits-chart.pdf
For information on hhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifow to detect and report Medicare fraud (and save all taxpayers money) go to www.cms.gov/Partnerships/04_FraudPreventionToolkit.asp#TopOfPage
For the top ten money saving tips for seniors, go to www.ncoa.org/enhancing-economic-security/economic-security/top-10-things-all-seniors.html?utm_source=NCOAWeek_111004&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=NCOAWeek
For an overview of Affordable Care Act changes already in effect, go to www.healthcare.gov/law/resources/reports/patients-bill-of-rights09232011a.pdf
9) From The New York Times – nytdirect@nytimes.com
For an article on distinguishing normal cognitive function as we age from cognitive impairment, see www.nytimes.com/2011/09/06/health/06brody.html?emc=tnt&tntemail1=y
For an informative article about telling men the truth about sex and prostate cancer (especially the letters at the end) see well.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/09/24/telling-men-the-truth-about-sex-and-prostate-cancer/?ref=healthupdate&nl=health&emc=healthupdateemb2
The enrollment period for 2012 Medicare Part D (prescription drug) coverage will begin on 15 October 2011 and will end on 7 December 2011. These dates are different from those used in prior years.
If you are a caregiver, you may find some support and/or ideas at this website: www.caregiving.com/
Is it time for dinner and you have 2-3 ingredients but can’t think what to make? Check out www.gojee.com/
For a checklist which asks about falling hazards found in each room of your home, including how to fix the problem go to www.cdc.gov/ncipc/pub-res/toolkit/cksafety.pdf (At the end of the checklist, you will find other tips for preventing falls); for more specific recommendations to prevent falls, go to www.mnsafetycouncil.org/seniorsafe/falls/index.cfm
If you are caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or another form of cognitive impairment, the College of Public Health at the University of Florida has on-line support for caregivers at alzonline.phhp.ufl.edu/en/topics/
You may be eligible for help with medical and other basic needs. To find out, go to www.benefitscheckup.org/
If you want a summary of the reasons for the Social Security/Medicare Trust Fund being in trouble, go to www.urban.org/publications/1001553.html
For a look at possible models for California’s Health Benefit Exchanges, go to www.chcf.org/publications/2011/08/health-benefit-exchange-visions
[The] Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 … requires the financial services industry to report their customers' cost basis to the IRS as part of Tax Form 1099-B, beginning in 2011 and phased through 2013 … subject to … changes by the IRS.
If your Internet or cell phone provider limits the amount of bandwidth you use, tips for minimizing usage can be found at www.nytimes.com/2011/10/06/technology/personaltech/tightening-your-data-belt.html?_r=1&nl=technology&emc=ctb1&pagewanted=print
For what to do in a case of identity theft, and information on how to avoid it happening to you, go to www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/
For a list of the top ten ways to get your computer infected with malware, and how to prevent that from happening, go to antivirus.about.com/od/securitytips/tp/badsecurityhahttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifbits.htm?p=1
1) From AARP – bulletin.aarp.org
For a list of 9 types of medications which older people should take with caution, go to www.aarp.org/health/drugs-supplements/info-07-2011/medications-older-adults-should-use-with-caution.html?cmp=NLC-WBLTR-CTRL-090211-F1-1&USEG_ID=6388998522
If you get a "security alert" from a bank or credit card company, don't click on e-mail links or call the number listed, in case it's fake. Instead, use a phone number you know to be authentic.
If your Social Security number is stolen, ask the credit bureaus to freeze your credit reports.
Find programs that help save money on health care, medication, food, utilities, children’s health costs and more! Go to aarpkb.benefitscheckup.org/moreprhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifograms.cfm?subset_id=49&partner_id=22&CFID=5423451&CFTOKEN=62850227
For the five most common retirement planning mistakes, go to www.aarp.org/work/retirement-planning/info-01-2011/common_retirement_mistakes.html?cmp=NLC-WBLTR-CTRL-093011-FT2-98&USEG_ID=6388998522
If you are a traveler, you might like this site for finding hotels (complete with map) and flights www.hipmunk.com/
2) From California Healthline – www.californiahealthline.org/
Rule Requiring Insurers To Post Reasons for Rate Increases Takes Effect [At the beginning of September], a new rule in the federal health reform law took effect that will allow the Obama administration and states to require health insurers to justify proposed rate increases of more than 10%, the Wall Street Journal reports.
Institute of Medicine Finds No Link Between Immunizations, Autism There is no evidence suggesting a link between vaccines and autism, according to an Institute of Medicine report released on [1 Sept], the New York Times reports (Harris,8/25).
Health Industry Likely To Back Automatic Cuts Over New Budget Plan The health care industry likely will push for the newly formed debt panel to allow automatic spending cuts to take effect instead of developing new budget cuts of at least $1.5 trillion, according to lobbyists and health care groups, Reuters reports (Reid/Yukhananov, 9/6).
President's New Deficit Reduction Plan Includes Cuts to Health Programs On [19 Sep] President Obama released a proposal to reduce the federal deficit by $3 trillion over the next 10 years, in part by making cuts to Medicare and Medicaid. (Baker, "Healthwatch," The Hill, 9/19).
Poll: People Aware of Long-Term Care Needs but Are Not Prepared Many Californians are highly aware of their future need for long-term care, but few are preparing financially for it, according to a poll commissioned by the California Partnership for Long-Term Care, HealthyCal reports.
Caregivers' Stress Remains Hot Topic UCLA researcher Geoff Hoffman is a little alarmed. His study took a look at the health risks of caregivers in California and found that http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifthe emotional and financial load of stress on caregivers in California may be causing the caregivers themselves to develop chronic health conditions
Blue Shield of California To End Coverage of Avastin for Breast Cancer Blue Shield of California no longer will pay for the drug Avastin for treatment of breast cancer, making the company the first large health insurer to end coverage for the drug, the New York Times reports
3) From Carepages – www.carepages.com
For suggestions on how to rebuild your social life after the loss of a partner, go to cms.carepages.com/CarePages/en/ArticlesTips/FeatureArticles/Contributors/rebuilding-your-social-life-after-loss.html?xid=nl_EverydayCaringFromCarePages_20110929
4) I do hope you are all following the (USC) Dean’s Council on Health Reform at www.healthreform.usc.edu/ It is a very rich site
5) From iHealthBeat - www.ihealthbeat.org/
Groups Launch Website, Campaign To Engage Patients on Care Quality The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has teamed up with the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT and the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality to launch a new project called "Care About Your Care" to help consumers better understand health care quality issues, Government Health IT reports (Mosquera, 9/1).
ONC Releases Final Version of Federal Health IT Strategic Plan On [12 Sep] the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT released an 80-page final version of its Federal Health IT Strategic Plan for 2011 through 2015, Modern Healthcare reports (Conn, Modern Healthcare, 9/12). The agency issued the final plan after receiving about 240 public comments on the draft plan that it released in March.
Measure Would Create Digital Smartcards for Medicare Beneficiaries Lawmakers in the House and Senate have introduced legislation to create a smartcard system for Medicare. The program would issue digitized cards to beneficiaries and health care providers in an effort to reduce fraud, cut costs and increase efficiency. InformationWeek et al.
FCC Seeks Comment on Expanding Mobile Phone Use During Emergencies [The week of 19 September] the Federal Communications Commission issued a notice of proposed rulemaking for a next-generation 911 system that would allow mobile phone users to contact emergency responders using pictures, videos or text messages, Computerworld reports.http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
Researchers Modify iPhone for High-Quality Medical Imaging The Optical Society of America recently announced that University of California-Davis researchers have modified Apple's iPhone and transformed it into a low-cost, high-quality medical imaging device for analyzing blood samples, United Press International reports.
6) From Kaiser Health News – www.kaiserhealthnews.org/
For Many Seniors, There May Be No Retirement Many older people are finding themselves in a position they never expected to be in at retirement age: still working or in need of a job. … More than three in five U.S. workers in their 50s and 60s plan on working past 65 -- and 47% of that group say they'll do so because they'll need the money or health benefits, according to a 2011 study from the nonprofit Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies (Wall Street Journal, Ensign, 8/21).
Administration May Give States Second Chance To Avoid Federally Run Insurance Exchange The Obama administration said Tuesday that states that have not adopted their own insurance exchanges may get a second chance to avoid getting one run solely by the federal government. Only 11 states have fully embraced the idea of taking federal money to set up their own state-run insurance exchange, a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services official said Tuesday. The exchange, a key part of Obama’s health care overhaul, is designed to help uninsured people buy coverage from a choice of plans with federal tax credits (Asociated Press/Washington Post, 8/23).
NIH Finalizes Financial Conflict Of Interest Rules The National Institutes of Health has finalized rules to reduce financial conflicts of interests among federally funded researchers who also receive payments or stock from drug and medical device companies. The rules, which will affect more than 40,000 researchers, come after a string of high profile cases in which federally funded researchers failed to disclose millions of dollars from companies with a financial interest in the outcome of their work (Washington Post, Vastag, 8/23).
WellPoint’s New Hire. What Is Watson? WellPoint Inc. and International Business Machines Corp. are set to announce a deal on [12 Sep] for the health insurer to use the Watson technology, the first time the high-profile project will result in a commercial application. WellPoint said it plans to use Watson's data-crunching to help suggest treatment options and diagnoses to doctors. It is part of a far broader push in the health industry to incorporate computerized guidance into care, as doctors and hospitals adopt electronic medical records and other digital tools that can record, track and check their work (Wall Street Journal, Mathews, 9/12).
Actuaries To ‘Super Committee’: Slow Overall Health Spending, Not Just Medicare Now on KHN’s news blog, Marilyn Werber Serafini writes: “The deficit reduction “super committee” should act to slow the growth of health care spending overall – not just in Medicare – as it rolls up its sleeves, says the American Academy of Actuaries. “Achieving long-term sustainability for Medicare will require slowing the growth in overall health spending, not simply shifting costs from one payer to another,” said senior health fellow Cori Uccello.“
Long-Term Care Program In Doubt The Obama administration said it may not enact a long-term-care insurance program included in last year's legislation that overhauled health care. The initiative, known as the Class Act, was designed to help Americans cover the cost of aid for daily living needs such as bathing and using the toilet should they become too old or sick to care for themselves. It became law when President Barack Obama signed the health-care overhaul in 2010, though the program hasn't begun operating. Amid mounting concerns about its fiscal sustainability, officials at the Department of Health and Human Services on Thursday said they may not go forward with the program. "It is an open question whether the program will be implemented," the agency said (Wall Street Journal, Adamy, 9/23).
If you’re a Medicare patient admitted to the hospital, the odds are about one in six that you’ll end up back in the hospital within a month. And there was very little progress made in reducing that rate between 2004-09. That’s the not-so-good news from a new report by the folks at the Dartmouth Atlas Project, which tracks variations in medical care across the U.S. The report also found that more than half of Medicare patients who left the hospital didn’t see a primary-care doctor within two weeks of discharge — identified as a contributing factor to the revolving-door problem (Wall Street Journal Hobson, 9/28).
In New Term, Supreme Court To Tackle Divisive Issues The constitutional challenge to President Obama's health care overhaul almost certainly will be decided this term, but at this point it has not formally made it onto the docket. Also making their way to the court are cases involving almost every hot-button issue in America: immigration; affirmative action; gay marriage; and the constitutionality of the Defense of Marriage Act, the federal law barring federal recognition of gay marriage even in states where it is legal (NPR,Totenberg, 10/3).
Gray Market Threatens Drug Supply Shortages in critical drugs have tripled in the past five years, killing some patients, delaying surgeries and disrupting chemotherapy treatments at hospitals around the country. There are several causes, and they’re all complicated: The Food and Drug Administration doesn’t have enough resources to enforce strict regulations; there are manufacturing disruptions in aging facilities; and slim profit margins may discourage production in the first place (Politico Norman, 10/3).
U.S. Panel Says No To Prostate Screening For Healthy Men Healthy men should no longer receive a P.S.A. blood test to screen for prostate cancer because the test does not save lives over all and often leads to more tests and treatments that needlessly cause pain, impotence and incontinence in many, a key government health panel has decided (New York Times Harris, 10/6).
7) From My Medicare Matters – www.mymedicarecommunity.org/
My Medicare Matters offers Webinars (live on-line training) for those who are Medicare advocates. If you are interested in being notified of training sessions, please contact me at esslady@gmail.com
8) From NCOA – www.ncoa.org
[NCOA/s] Reverse Mortgage Counseling Services Network is one of five national counseling groups approved by the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development. To schedule a counseling session, call toll-free (800) 510-0301.
Don’t forget the six-week on-line course for managing chronic diseases at selfmanage.org/BetterHealth/SignUp http:
For a chart which shows newly free (no co-payment) Medicare benefits, see www.centerforbenefits.org/downloads/Medicare-Preventive-Benefits-chart.pdf
For information on hhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifow to detect and report Medicare fraud (and save all taxpayers money) go to www.cms.gov/Partnerships/04_FraudPreventionToolkit.asp#TopOfPage
For the top ten money saving tips for seniors, go to www.ncoa.org/enhancing-economic-security/economic-security/top-10-things-all-seniors.html?utm_source=NCOAWeek_111004&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=NCOAWeek
For an overview of Affordable Care Act changes already in effect, go to www.healthcare.gov/law/resources/reports/patients-bill-of-rights09232011a.pdf
9) From The New York Times – nytdirect@nytimes.com
For an article on distinguishing normal cognitive function as we age from cognitive impairment, see www.nytimes.com/2011/09/06/health/06brody.html?emc=tnt&tntemail1=y
For an informative article about telling men the truth about sex and prostate cancer (especially the letters at the end) see well.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/09/24/telling-men-the-truth-about-sex-and-prostate-cancer/?ref=healthupdate&nl=health&emc=healthupdateemb2
Sunday, August 21, 2011
From the Web by Elaine Steward #23
Hi again from Elaine Steward! Following, is my most recent list of things which may be of general interest to us retirees. If have something you’d like to share, please post it to the comments section at the end of this blog.
The enrollment period for 2012 Medicare Part D (prescription drug) coverage will begin on 15 October 2011 and will end on 7 December 2011. These dates are different from those used in prior years.
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced on August 4, 2011, that Medicare average prescription drug premiums will not increase in 2012.
The Auto Club of Southern California has endorsed a computer program called Drive Sharp, which is designed to help seniors improve their driving skills (e.g., sharpen reflexes). Information can be found at www.positscience.com/our-products/drivesharp Right now, if you purchase it through the Auto Club, it is half price.
For some guidance on managing email, check out emailcharter.org/index.html. For more, go to pogue.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/06/30/we-have-to-fix-e-mail/?ref=personaltechemail&nl=technology&emc=cta1
If you want to manage your exposure on the Internet, go to www.reputation.com/ The free service will help you delete certain information and also see your current exposure. You can upgrade for a fee and get even more control.
Social Security Office Hours: Due to budget constraints, as of August 15 Social Security field offices will close to the public 30 minutes earlier each day. You can access many Social Security services and get up-to-date information online at www.socialsecurity.gov or by calling the toll-free 800 number 1-800-772-1213 and TTY number 1-800-325-0778.
If you love to read, but have trouble keeping track of your favorite author, book genre, etc, you can either bookmark or subscribe to www.tracknewbook.com/
Emergency preparedness people tell us that in a disaster, text messages are likely to get through when other kinds of communication fail. Just set up your I'm OK emergency contact list ahead of time. Then if you need to message your list (either that you're ok or that you need help), just text the I'm OK number. The site will email your entire contact list to let them know how you're doing. Set it up at imokapp.appspot.com/ Unfortunately, the mobile app is only available for the Blackberry Bold.
I’ve previously sent out information on unsubscribing from catalogues and now the same company has a central service for unsubscribing from on-line sites. For information, go to www.unsubscribe.com/
To create your own “how to” page (e.g., reminding a friend how to use a cell phone feature), go to www.tildee.com/
If you absolutely have to send sensitive information via the Internet, use quickforget.com/ The message will self-destruct after a specified period of time or a specified number of views.
1) From AARP – bulletin.aarp.org
For help understanding your quarterly Medicare statement, go to www.aarp.org/health/medicare-insurance/info-05-2011/your-medicare-summary-notice-and-you.html?cmp=NLC-WBLTR-CTRL-070811-F4t-15&USEG_ID=6388998522
If you have not yet applied for Social Security, check out this method of maximizing your benefits www.aarp.org/work/social-security/info-06-2011/social-security-mailboxhow-to-maximize-your-benefits.html?cmp=NLC-MONY-CTRL-71111-F1-1
The annual WELLNESS visit now covered by Medicare is NOT an annual physical. A physical will likely not be covered. For more information, go to www.aarp.org/health/health-care-reform/info-07-2011/free-medicare-wellness-exam.2.html
2) From Aging in Stride – www.aginginstride.org
A UCLA study has demonstrated mood benefits of Tai Chi. It seems that improved mood positively affects physical health.
3) From California Healthline – www.californiahealthline.org/
Governor Brown Signs Budget Package To Close State Deficit On [30 June] Gov. Jerry Brown (D) signed a package of bills to close the state's budget deficit just one day before the July 1 start of the new fiscal year, the Los Angeles Times reports.
USC Report: Tackling Chronic Conditions Can Save Billions A new report by researchers from the University of Southern California's Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics, Harvard University's School of Public Health and RAND suggests that reducing the rates of obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure among middle-age U.S. adults could save Medicare and Medicaid as much as $632 billion by 2050. The report -- published this month in the journal Social Science & Medicine -- also suggests that addressing these chronic conditions could raise life expectancy. The researchers noted that the health status of people in their 50s plays a key role in their medical needs and costs of care.
Date Set, Plaintiffs Get Support in High Court Medi-Cal Case When the U.S. Supreme Court begins its 2011-2012 term Oct. 3, the first case on the docket will pose the question: Do Californians have the right to sue government agencies and officials over Medicaid
California Lowers Expenses for Pre-Existing Condition Insurance On [2 Aug] California officials announced that the state's high-risk health insurance program will reduce premium costs by an average of 18%, HealthyCal reports (van Diepen, HealthyCal, 8/2).
Reform Providing Preventive Services to California Seniors More than 1.4 million Medicare beneficiaries in California have received at least one of the no-cost preventive services made available under the federal health reform law, according to data from federal health officials. Nationwide, more than 17 million seniors have received at least one no-cost preventive service since Jan. 1. Such services include bone mass measurements, diabetes screenings, flu shots, mammograms and prostate cancer tests.
Drop in Revenue Raises Concern of Additional Cuts to Health Care California missed its general fund revenue target for July by $541 million, or about 10%, according to state Controller John Chiang (D), the San Francisco Chronicle reports.
State Plans To Provide Managed Care for Adult Day Health Care Users California health officials have released a plan they say will help keep thousands of Californians out of institutions when Medi-Cal stops offering adult day health care services as a benefit in December, the Los Angeles Times reports. Medi-Cal is California's Medicaid program.
4) From Carepages – www.carepages.com
For guidance on financial management of an incapacitated loved one, go to cms.carepages.com/CarePages/en/ArticlesTips/HelpfulTips/Financial-Management-During-a-Medical-Crisis.html?xid=nl_EverydayCaringFromCarePages_20110630
5) I do hope you are all following the (USC) Dean’s Council on Health Reform at www.healthreform.usc.edu/ It is a very rich site
6) From iHealthBeat - www.ihealthbeat.org/
New Online Directory Helps Patients Compare Care Quality Across U.S. The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has launched an online directory that allows consumers to compare health care providers' quality of care. The tool includes information from 197 state and 27 national databases. Los Angeles Times' "Booster Shots," New York Times' "Prescriptions."
Mayo Clinic Launches Social Networking Site on Health Care Issues More than 1,000 people have joined a new social networking website that the Mayo Clinic launched [the first week in July] to connect consumers with similar health-related interests, the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal reports.
Expanded Access to Broadband Could Improve Rural Health Care Expanding broadband Internet access could help improve health care in rural areas of the U.S. by increasing the use of telehealth, electronic prescribing and electronic health records, according to participants at an Internet Innovation Alliance panel discussion in mid August.
Study: Mobile Phone Software Helps Improve Diabetes Management Software added to basic cell phones can help patients with diabetes significantly reduce a key measure of blood sugar over one year, according to a study published in Diabetes Care, the journal of the American Diabetes Association, the Wall Street Journal reports.
FCC Seeks To Facilitate Use of Mobile Devices in Emergencies The Federal Communications Commission has announced plans to develop technical standards for programs that allow the public to contact emergency responders by using their mobile phones to send text messages, photos and videos. FCC plans to launch a rulemaking process and seek public comment on the plan next month. National Journal's "Tech Daily Dose," Government Technology.
7) From Kaiser Health News – www.kaiserhealthnews.org/
If you are wondering whether you should obtain health insurance from a high risk pool, check out the Q & A at www.kaiserhealthnews.org/Multimedia/2011/June/Andrews-Q-and-A-On-High-Risk-Pools.aspx
Medicare Will Continue To Cover 2 Expensive Cancer Drugs
Medicare confirmed on [30 June] that it would continue to pay for two expensive cancer drugs that had been at the center of debate — Avastin from Genentech for breast cancer and Provenge from Dendreon for prostate cancer (New York Times Pollack, 6/30).
For an understanding of how “super committee” decisions may impact Medicare and Medicaid spending, go to www.kaiserhealthnews.org/Stories/2011/August/03/debt-deal-FAQ.aspx?utm_source=medicaretop&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=080411
Health Plan Buyers Get A Look Under The Hood Consumers shopping for health insurance will soon get a peek at a new standard form—akin to the nutrition label on food products—that will lay out the details of each policy, from deductibles to how much it might cost to have a baby. Federal regulators are expected to unveil the proposed summary form, part of the health-care overhaul law, on [17 August], and the requirement is supposed to take effect next March (Mathews and Adamy, Kaiser Health News 8/17).
8) From My Medicare Matters – www.mymedicarecommunity.org/
My Medicare Matters offers Webinars (live on-line training) for those who are Medicare advocates. If you are interested in being notified of training sessions, please contact me at esslady@gmail.com
9) From NCOA – www.ncoa.org
For a list of the members of the “supercommittee,” go to www.ncoa.org/news-ncoa-publications/news/deficit-reduction-committee.html
[NCOA/s] Reverse Mortgage Counseling Services Network is one of five national counseling groups approved by the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development. To schedule a counseling session, call toll-free (800) 510-0301.
Don’t forget the six-week on-line course for managing chronic diseases at selfmanage.org/BetterHealth/SignUp
10) From The New York Times – nytdirect@nytimes.com
Drive to Stem Shingles Meets Few Expectations Five years have passed since the Food and Drug Administration approved a vaccine against shingles. By now, experts had expected a substantial proportion of people older than 60, the most vulnerable population, to be protected from outbreaks of this nasty viral disease and the persistent, debilitating pain it can leave behind.
The enrollment period for 2012 Medicare Part D (prescription drug) coverage will begin on 15 October 2011 and will end on 7 December 2011. These dates are different from those used in prior years.
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced on August 4, 2011, that Medicare average prescription drug premiums will not increase in 2012.
The Auto Club of Southern California has endorsed a computer program called Drive Sharp, which is designed to help seniors improve their driving skills (e.g., sharpen reflexes). Information can be found at www.positscience.com/our-products/drivesharp Right now, if you purchase it through the Auto Club, it is half price.
For some guidance on managing email, check out emailcharter.org/index.html. For more, go to pogue.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/06/30/we-have-to-fix-e-mail/?ref=personaltechemail&nl=technology&emc=cta1
If you want to manage your exposure on the Internet, go to www.reputation.com/ The free service will help you delete certain information and also see your current exposure. You can upgrade for a fee and get even more control.
Social Security Office Hours: Due to budget constraints, as of August 15 Social Security field offices will close to the public 30 minutes earlier each day. You can access many Social Security services and get up-to-date information online at www.socialsecurity.gov or by calling the toll-free 800 number 1-800-772-1213 and TTY number 1-800-325-0778.
If you love to read, but have trouble keeping track of your favorite author, book genre, etc, you can either bookmark or subscribe to www.tracknewbook.com/
Emergency preparedness people tell us that in a disaster, text messages are likely to get through when other kinds of communication fail. Just set up your I'm OK emergency contact list ahead of time. Then if you need to message your list (either that you're ok or that you need help), just text the I'm OK number. The site will email your entire contact list to let them know how you're doing. Set it up at imokapp.appspot.com/ Unfortunately, the mobile app is only available for the Blackberry Bold.
I’ve previously sent out information on unsubscribing from catalogues and now the same company has a central service for unsubscribing from on-line sites. For information, go to www.unsubscribe.com/
To create your own “how to” page (e.g., reminding a friend how to use a cell phone feature), go to www.tildee.com/
If you absolutely have to send sensitive information via the Internet, use quickforget.com/ The message will self-destruct after a specified period of time or a specified number of views.
1) From AARP – bulletin.aarp.org
For help understanding your quarterly Medicare statement, go to www.aarp.org/health/medicare-insurance/info-05-2011/your-medicare-summary-notice-and-you.html?cmp=NLC-WBLTR-CTRL-070811-F4t-15&USEG_ID=6388998522
If you have not yet applied for Social Security, check out this method of maximizing your benefits www.aarp.org/work/social-security/info-06-2011/social-security-mailboxhow-to-maximize-your-benefits.html?cmp=NLC-MONY-CTRL-71111-F1-1
The annual WELLNESS visit now covered by Medicare is NOT an annual physical. A physical will likely not be covered. For more information, go to www.aarp.org/health/health-care-reform/info-07-2011/free-medicare-wellness-exam.2.html
2) From Aging in Stride – www.aginginstride.org
A UCLA study has demonstrated mood benefits of Tai Chi. It seems that improved mood positively affects physical health.
3) From California Healthline – www.californiahealthline.org/
Governor Brown Signs Budget Package To Close State Deficit On [30 June] Gov. Jerry Brown (D) signed a package of bills to close the state's budget deficit just one day before the July 1 start of the new fiscal year, the Los Angeles Times reports.
USC Report: Tackling Chronic Conditions Can Save Billions A new report by researchers from the University of Southern California's Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics, Harvard University's School of Public Health and RAND suggests that reducing the rates of obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure among middle-age U.S. adults could save Medicare and Medicaid as much as $632 billion by 2050. The report -- published this month in the journal Social Science & Medicine -- also suggests that addressing these chronic conditions could raise life expectancy. The researchers noted that the health status of people in their 50s plays a key role in their medical needs and costs of care.
Date Set, Plaintiffs Get Support in High Court Medi-Cal Case When the U.S. Supreme Court begins its 2011-2012 term Oct. 3, the first case on the docket will pose the question: Do Californians have the right to sue government agencies and officials over Medicaid
California Lowers Expenses for Pre-Existing Condition Insurance On [2 Aug] California officials announced that the state's high-risk health insurance program will reduce premium costs by an average of 18%, HealthyCal reports (van Diepen, HealthyCal, 8/2).
Reform Providing Preventive Services to California Seniors More than 1.4 million Medicare beneficiaries in California have received at least one of the no-cost preventive services made available under the federal health reform law, according to data from federal health officials. Nationwide, more than 17 million seniors have received at least one no-cost preventive service since Jan. 1. Such services include bone mass measurements, diabetes screenings, flu shots, mammograms and prostate cancer tests.
Drop in Revenue Raises Concern of Additional Cuts to Health Care California missed its general fund revenue target for July by $541 million, or about 10%, according to state Controller John Chiang (D), the San Francisco Chronicle reports.
State Plans To Provide Managed Care for Adult Day Health Care Users California health officials have released a plan they say will help keep thousands of Californians out of institutions when Medi-Cal stops offering adult day health care services as a benefit in December, the Los Angeles Times reports. Medi-Cal is California's Medicaid program.
4) From Carepages – www.carepages.com
For guidance on financial management of an incapacitated loved one, go to cms.carepages.com/CarePages/en/ArticlesTips/HelpfulTips/Financial-Management-During-a-Medical-Crisis.html?xid=nl_EverydayCaringFromCarePages_20110630
5) I do hope you are all following the (USC) Dean’s Council on Health Reform at www.healthreform.usc.edu/ It is a very rich site
6) From iHealthBeat - www.ihealthbeat.org/
New Online Directory Helps Patients Compare Care Quality Across U.S. The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has launched an online directory that allows consumers to compare health care providers' quality of care. The tool includes information from 197 state and 27 national databases. Los Angeles Times' "Booster Shots," New York Times' "Prescriptions."
Mayo Clinic Launches Social Networking Site on Health Care Issues More than 1,000 people have joined a new social networking website that the Mayo Clinic launched [the first week in July] to connect consumers with similar health-related interests, the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal reports.
Expanded Access to Broadband Could Improve Rural Health Care Expanding broadband Internet access could help improve health care in rural areas of the U.S. by increasing the use of telehealth, electronic prescribing and electronic health records, according to participants at an Internet Innovation Alliance panel discussion in mid August.
Study: Mobile Phone Software Helps Improve Diabetes Management Software added to basic cell phones can help patients with diabetes significantly reduce a key measure of blood sugar over one year, according to a study published in Diabetes Care, the journal of the American Diabetes Association, the Wall Street Journal reports.
FCC Seeks To Facilitate Use of Mobile Devices in Emergencies The Federal Communications Commission has announced plans to develop technical standards for programs that allow the public to contact emergency responders by using their mobile phones to send text messages, photos and videos. FCC plans to launch a rulemaking process and seek public comment on the plan next month. National Journal's "Tech Daily Dose," Government Technology.
7) From Kaiser Health News – www.kaiserhealthnews.org/
If you are wondering whether you should obtain health insurance from a high risk pool, check out the Q & A at www.kaiserhealthnews.org/Multimedia/2011/June/Andrews-Q-and-A-On-High-Risk-Pools.aspx
Medicare Will Continue To Cover 2 Expensive Cancer Drugs
Medicare confirmed on [30 June] that it would continue to pay for two expensive cancer drugs that had been at the center of debate — Avastin from Genentech for breast cancer and Provenge from Dendreon for prostate cancer (New York Times Pollack, 6/30).
For an understanding of how “super committee” decisions may impact Medicare and Medicaid spending, go to www.kaiserhealthnews.org/Stories/2011/August/03/debt-deal-FAQ.aspx?utm_source=medicaretop&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=080411
Health Plan Buyers Get A Look Under The Hood Consumers shopping for health insurance will soon get a peek at a new standard form—akin to the nutrition label on food products—that will lay out the details of each policy, from deductibles to how much it might cost to have a baby. Federal regulators are expected to unveil the proposed summary form, part of the health-care overhaul law, on [17 August], and the requirement is supposed to take effect next March (Mathews and Adamy, Kaiser Health News 8/17).
8) From My Medicare Matters – www.mymedicarecommunity.org/
My Medicare Matters offers Webinars (live on-line training) for those who are Medicare advocates. If you are interested in being notified of training sessions, please contact me at esslady@gmail.com
9) From NCOA – www.ncoa.org
For a list of the members of the “supercommittee,” go to www.ncoa.org/news-ncoa-publications/news/deficit-reduction-committee.html
[NCOA/s] Reverse Mortgage Counseling Services Network is one of five national counseling groups approved by the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development. To schedule a counseling session, call toll-free (800) 510-0301.
Don’t forget the six-week on-line course for managing chronic diseases at selfmanage.org/BetterHealth/SignUp
10) From The New York Times – nytdirect@nytimes.com
Drive to Stem Shingles Meets Few Expectations Five years have passed since the Food and Drug Administration approved a vaccine against shingles. By now, experts had expected a substantial proportion of people older than 60, the most vulnerable population, to be protected from outbreaks of this nasty viral disease and the persistent, debilitating pain it can leave behind.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
From the Web by Elaine Steward #22
Hi again from Elaine Steward! Following, is my most recent list of things which may be of general interest to us retirees. If have something you’d like to share, please post it to the comments section at the end of this blog.
To view art at a number of famous museums around the world, go to www.googleartproject.com/
For an overview of how to get the most out of the site, go to www.ted.com/talks/amit_sood_building_a_museum_of_museums_on_the_web.html?utm_source=newsletter_weekly_2011-05-17&utm_campaign=newsletter_weekly&utm_medium=email
For a variety of needs assessment (over and above Medicare) tools for seniors, go to www.benefitscheckup.org/
The American Chronic Pain Association offers resources and support for people living with chronic pain, and helpful information for family caregivers. Go to www.theacpa.org/default.aspx
For 25 “Tech Tips” go to pogue.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/05/19/25-more-tech-tips-and-tricks/?nl=technology&emc=cta1
For advice on how to protect your identity if your wallet goes missing, go to www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-08-2010/a_wallet_gone_awol_.html
For a video on the correct way to tie your shoes (they won’t come untied as often) go to www.ted.com/talks/terry_moore_how_to_tie_your_shoes.html?utm_source=newsletter_weekly_2011-05-24&utm_campaign=newsletter_weekly&utm_medium=email
An on-line workshop for managing chronic diseases is available nationwide. To enroll, go to selfmanage.org/BetterHealth/SignUp
For volunteer opportunities in your neighborhood, go to volunteers.aarp.org/ones/ctg/mansell/registrant/create.htm?registrant.firstName=Elaine®istrant.lastName=Steward®istrant.emailAddress=esslady@ix.netcom.com®istrant.postalCode=91107&language=en&trace=MansellQ22011Campaign-a
1) From AARP – bulletin.aarp.org
For a list of six expenses to reexamine when one retires, go to www.aarp.org/money/budgeting-saving/info-04-2011/money-saving-tips-for-retirees.2.html
For information on strokes – from symptoms to what a stroke is to what to do if you or someone you are with is having one – go to www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-04-2011/are-you-having-a-stroke.html?cmp=NLC-WBLTR-CTRL-051311-F2t-7&USEG_ID=6388998522
For Ways to increase intimacy, go to www.aarp.org/personal-growth/transitions/info-05-2011/5-weeks-ep2-better-sex.html?cmp=NLC-WBLTR-CTRL-061711-F2-4&USEG_ID=6388998522
2) From California Healthline – www.californiahealthline.org/
Legislation Aims To Help Patients Obtain Quicker Coverage for Pain Drugs Under AB 369, by Assembly member Jared Huffman, insurers could require patients with chronic pain to try no more than two low-cost drugs before covering a physician-prescribed medication. The bill is before the Assembly Committee on Appropriations. Marin Independent Journal.
Trustees Say Medicare Hospital Trust Fund Will Be Exhausted in 2024 The Medicare Hospital Insurance Trust Fund will be exhausted in 2024, five years earlier than last year's estimates, according to the annual Social Security and Medicare Trustees report (Ohlemacher, AP/Bloomberg BusinessWeek, 5/13).
Changing the Culture in Nursing Homes Culture change in nursing homes can have a powerful impact on the daily life of residents and caregivers and on the quality of care. A new paper assesses the efforts of the California Culture Change Coalition to promote person-centered care.
Advocates Prepare To Fight Over Cuts to Adult Day Health Care Advocates for seniors and residents with disabilities are gearing up for a fight over Gov. Jerry Brown's (D) plan to eliminate California's adult day health care program, the Contra Costa Times reports (Kleffman, Contra Costa Times, 5/22)
Top Court Rules Against Stanford in Patent Battle Over HIV Test Kit On Monday, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled 7-2 against Stanford University in a patent battle over a test that measures HIV levels in a patient's blood, the New York Times reports (Liptak, New York Times, 6/6).
Judges Hear Arguments in Largest Case Against Health Reform Law On [8 June] a three-judge panel at the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Atlanta heard oral arguments and asked tough questions in the multistate lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the federal health reform law and its individual mandate, the Washington Post reports (Aizenman, Washington Post, 6/8).
HHS Announces $40M for Chronic Disease Prevention On [7 June] HHS announced the availability of about $40 million for state efforts to strengthen chronic disease prevention programs. The funding, which comes from the federal health reform law, will target arthritis, cancer, diabetes, heart disease and stroke. CDC will oversee the initiative.
Report: Employers Rethinking Health Coverage for Retirees More than 40% of employers are contemplating ending group health plans for retirees who do not yet qualify for Medicare because of the federal health reform law, according to a report by Towers Watson and the International Society of Certified Employee Benefit Specialists. The report notes that the employers intend to encourage pre-Medicare retirees to purchase coverage through the state-based health insurance exchanges that launch in 2014.
3) From Carepages – www.carepages.com
For suggestions on how to recharge when you are feeling down, go to cms.carepages.com/CarePages/en/ArticlesTips/HelpfulTips/BetterYou/five_senses.html?xid=nl_EverydayCaringFromCarePages_20110526
For some guidance on writing a will, go to cms.carepages.com/CarePages/en/ArticlesTips/HelpfulTips/how-to-write-a-will.html?xid=nl_EverydayCaringFromCarePages_20110623
4) I do hope you are all following the (USC) Dean’s Council on Health Reform at www.healthreform.usc.edu/ It is a very rich site
5) From iHealthBeat - www.ihealthbeat.org/
Risk Calculators Reduce Risk of Heart Attack and Stroke, Study Finds Computer-based risk calculators that can be integrated into electronic health record systems can help doctors develop individualized treatment guidelines, according to a study published [12 May] in the Annals of Internal Medicine, Reuters reports
HHS To Release Final Rule on HIPAA Privacy, Security by End of Year A final omnibus rule to strengthen HIPAA privacy and security safeguards and provide better protection for electronic health data will be released by the end of 2011, according to an HHS official, Government Health IT reports.
Telehealth Reduces Mortality Rates, Length of Stay for ICU Patients Telehealth services used in intensive care units are associated with lower mortality rates and shorter hospital stays, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, HealthDay reports (Dallas, HealthDay, 5/16).
CVS To Test Electronic Prior Authorization for Prescription Medication CVS Caremark will pilot electronic prior authorization capabilities in an attempt to help develop technical standards for the capability. Electronic prescribing network operator Surescripts will participate in the program. Healthcare IT News, Becker's Hospital Review.
ONC Releases First Examinations To Assess Health IT Professionals On [20 May] the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT released the first set of examinations to help stakeholders measure skill levels for certain health IT competencies that have been identified as essential. More than 27,000 health IT students and workers will be eligible for vouchers to take an exam at no cost. Government Health IT, HealthLeaders Media.
Increasing Number of Colleges Use Electronic Mental Health Screening More college campus counseling centers are opting for computerized mental health screening questionnaires over traditional paper evaluations to spot more serious issues quickly and to deal with increasing demand for mental health services, the AP/Miami Herald reports.
Senators Call for Greater Use of Rx Drug Monitoring Systems On [24 May] the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Terrorism pressed administration officials and experts for strategies to curb widespread prescription drug misuse, such as electronic tracking systems, McClatchy/Miami Herald reports.
Proposed Rule Would Open Up Medicare Data for Public Reports On [3 June] CMS issued a proposed rule that would allow certain qualified organizations to access Medicare data to compile quality and safety reports about physician practices, hospitals and other health care providers, HealthLeaders Media reports (Tocknell, HealthLeaders Media, 6/6).
CMS To Use Predictive Modeling Tools To Detect Medicare Fraud On July 1, the federal government plans to start using predictive modeling software to uncover potential Medicare and Medicaid fraud before paying claims, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports (Sell, Philadelphia Inquirer, 6/17).
Palm Scanning Tool Cuts Back on Patient ID Errors, Boosts Security Vein recognition technology that links to electronic health record systems can help expedite patient registration and prevent duplication and fraud, InformationWeek reports.
6) From Kaiser Health News – www.kaiserhealthnews.org/
For an eight committee, bipartisan report of “Proposals to Reduce Health Care Spending and the Deficit, go to www.kaiserhealthnews.org/Stories/2011/May/26/Peterson-Health-Care-Deficit-Proposals.aspx
If you must go to a hospital at night or on a weekend, here are some suggestions offered by experts to help patients and families keep themselves safe: www.kaiserhealthnews.org/Stories/2011/June/07/nocturnist-sidebar.aspx
Consumers Maybe Be Unaware Of Their Right To a Review O[f] Health Plan Decisions Reporting for Kaiser Health News, Susan Jaffe writes: “Millions of Americans gained the right this year to appeal decisions made by health plans to an outside, independent decision-maker. But many of these consumers might not know they have the new option -- and when they find out, it might be too late” (Jaffe, 6/10).
HHS Scales Back Rules On Health Insurance Appeals The Obama administration announced Wednesday that it is scaling back some of its earlier rules under the 2010 health law that governed consumers' right to appeal denials by health plans, disappointing patient advocates and earning praise from industry groups (Jaffe, 6/23).
7) From My Medicare Matters – www.mymedicarecommunity.org/
My Medicare Matters offers Webinars (live on-line training) for those who are Medicare advocates. If you are interested in being notified of training sessions, please contact me at esslady@gmail.com
8) From miscellaneous sources
The Independent Payment Advisory Board was created by the 2010 health care law. Last month, in releasing his deficit-reduction plan, President Obama called for increasing the panel’s authority, saying it was critical to controlling the costs of the program, estimated at $524 billion in fiscal 2010. For more, see
www.washingtonpost.com/national/health/controversial-health-board-braces-for-continued-battles-over-medicare/2011/05/03/AFR2ZwTG_story.html
If you are concerned about your gas mileage check out the following for gas saving ideas: www.budgettravel.com/feature/the-7-most-common-gas-guzzling-mistakes,7330/?wpisrc=newsletter
9) From NCOA – www.ncoa.org
For a variety of needs assessment (help over and above Medicare) tools for seniors, go to www.benefitscheckup.org/
For a list of The National Council on Aging’s recommendations on the renewal of the Older Americans Act, go to www.ncoa.org/public-policy/older-americans-act/
Trustees Report on Medicare, Social Security The Social Security and Medicare Board of Trustees released a report [the week of 6 June] showing that while Medicare and Social Security are financially strong today, there is more work to be done. The Medicare Part A Trust Fund will remain solvent for another 13 years—eight years more than expected thanks to the Affordable Care Act. The combined Social Security Trust Funds have resources to pay full benefits for the coming 25 years, the report states.
For a very nice summary of the various Medicare programs, especially Medicare Part D (the drug plan), go to www.centerforbenefits.org/core_benefits_part_d.html
To see the Global Coalition on Population Aging’s 7 Principles, go to www.globalcoalitiononaging.com/?id=global-principles
10) From The New York Times – nytdirect@nytimes.com
For an analysis of the “evidence” indicating that cellphones cause cancer go to well.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/06/06/piercing-the-fog-around-cellphones-and-cancer/?nl=health&emc=healthupdateema2
Biggest Banks in Reverse Mortgages Exit Business Wells Fargo and Bank of America have left the business, as falling home prices have made it more unpredictable.
To view art at a number of famous museums around the world, go to www.googleartproject.com/
For an overview of how to get the most out of the site, go to www.ted.com/talks/amit_sood_building_a_museum_of_museums_on_the_web.html?utm_source=newsletter_weekly_2011-05-17&utm_campaign=newsletter_weekly&utm_medium=email
For a variety of needs assessment (over and above Medicare) tools for seniors, go to www.benefitscheckup.org/
The American Chronic Pain Association offers resources and support for people living with chronic pain, and helpful information for family caregivers. Go to www.theacpa.org/default.aspx
For 25 “Tech Tips” go to pogue.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/05/19/25-more-tech-tips-and-tricks/?nl=technology&emc=cta1
For advice on how to protect your identity if your wallet goes missing, go to www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-08-2010/a_wallet_gone_awol_.html
For a video on the correct way to tie your shoes (they won’t come untied as often) go to www.ted.com/talks/terry_moore_how_to_tie_your_shoes.html?utm_source=newsletter_weekly_2011-05-24&utm_campaign=newsletter_weekly&utm_medium=email
An on-line workshop for managing chronic diseases is available nationwide. To enroll, go to selfmanage.org/BetterHealth/SignUp
For volunteer opportunities in your neighborhood, go to volunteers.aarp.org/ones/ctg/mansell/registrant/create.htm?registrant.firstName=Elaine®istrant.lastName=Steward®istrant.emailAddress=esslady@ix.netcom.com®istrant.postalCode=91107&language=en&trace=MansellQ22011Campaign-a
1) From AARP – bulletin.aarp.org
For a list of six expenses to reexamine when one retires, go to www.aarp.org/money/budgeting-saving/info-04-2011/money-saving-tips-for-retirees.2.html
For information on strokes – from symptoms to what a stroke is to what to do if you or someone you are with is having one – go to www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-04-2011/are-you-having-a-stroke.html?cmp=NLC-WBLTR-CTRL-051311-F2t-7&USEG_ID=6388998522
For Ways to increase intimacy, go to www.aarp.org/personal-growth/transitions/info-05-2011/5-weeks-ep2-better-sex.html?cmp=NLC-WBLTR-CTRL-061711-F2-4&USEG_ID=6388998522
2) From California Healthline – www.californiahealthline.org/
Legislation Aims To Help Patients Obtain Quicker Coverage for Pain Drugs Under AB 369, by Assembly member Jared Huffman, insurers could require patients with chronic pain to try no more than two low-cost drugs before covering a physician-prescribed medication. The bill is before the Assembly Committee on Appropriations. Marin Independent Journal.
Trustees Say Medicare Hospital Trust Fund Will Be Exhausted in 2024 The Medicare Hospital Insurance Trust Fund will be exhausted in 2024, five years earlier than last year's estimates, according to the annual Social Security and Medicare Trustees report (Ohlemacher, AP/Bloomberg BusinessWeek, 5/13).
Changing the Culture in Nursing Homes Culture change in nursing homes can have a powerful impact on the daily life of residents and caregivers and on the quality of care. A new paper assesses the efforts of the California Culture Change Coalition to promote person-centered care.
Advocates Prepare To Fight Over Cuts to Adult Day Health Care Advocates for seniors and residents with disabilities are gearing up for a fight over Gov. Jerry Brown's (D) plan to eliminate California's adult day health care program, the Contra Costa Times reports (Kleffman, Contra Costa Times, 5/22)
Top Court Rules Against Stanford in Patent Battle Over HIV Test Kit On Monday, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled 7-2 against Stanford University in a patent battle over a test that measures HIV levels in a patient's blood, the New York Times reports (Liptak, New York Times, 6/6).
Judges Hear Arguments in Largest Case Against Health Reform Law On [8 June] a three-judge panel at the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Atlanta heard oral arguments and asked tough questions in the multistate lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the federal health reform law and its individual mandate, the Washington Post reports (Aizenman, Washington Post, 6/8).
HHS Announces $40M for Chronic Disease Prevention On [7 June] HHS announced the availability of about $40 million for state efforts to strengthen chronic disease prevention programs. The funding, which comes from the federal health reform law, will target arthritis, cancer, diabetes, heart disease and stroke. CDC will oversee the initiative.
Report: Employers Rethinking Health Coverage for Retirees More than 40% of employers are contemplating ending group health plans for retirees who do not yet qualify for Medicare because of the federal health reform law, according to a report by Towers Watson and the International Society of Certified Employee Benefit Specialists. The report notes that the employers intend to encourage pre-Medicare retirees to purchase coverage through the state-based health insurance exchanges that launch in 2014.
3) From Carepages – www.carepages.com
For suggestions on how to recharge when you are feeling down, go to cms.carepages.com/CarePages/en/ArticlesTips/HelpfulTips/BetterYou/five_senses.html?xid=nl_EverydayCaringFromCarePages_20110526
For some guidance on writing a will, go to cms.carepages.com/CarePages/en/ArticlesTips/HelpfulTips/how-to-write-a-will.html?xid=nl_EverydayCaringFromCarePages_20110623
4) I do hope you are all following the (USC) Dean’s Council on Health Reform at www.healthreform.usc.edu/ It is a very rich site
5) From iHealthBeat - www.ihealthbeat.org/
Risk Calculators Reduce Risk of Heart Attack and Stroke, Study Finds Computer-based risk calculators that can be integrated into electronic health record systems can help doctors develop individualized treatment guidelines, according to a study published [12 May] in the Annals of Internal Medicine, Reuters reports
HHS To Release Final Rule on HIPAA Privacy, Security by End of Year A final omnibus rule to strengthen HIPAA privacy and security safeguards and provide better protection for electronic health data will be released by the end of 2011, according to an HHS official, Government Health IT reports.
Telehealth Reduces Mortality Rates, Length of Stay for ICU Patients Telehealth services used in intensive care units are associated with lower mortality rates and shorter hospital stays, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, HealthDay reports (Dallas, HealthDay, 5/16).
CVS To Test Electronic Prior Authorization for Prescription Medication CVS Caremark will pilot electronic prior authorization capabilities in an attempt to help develop technical standards for the capability. Electronic prescribing network operator Surescripts will participate in the program. Healthcare IT News, Becker's Hospital Review.
ONC Releases First Examinations To Assess Health IT Professionals On [20 May] the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT released the first set of examinations to help stakeholders measure skill levels for certain health IT competencies that have been identified as essential. More than 27,000 health IT students and workers will be eligible for vouchers to take an exam at no cost. Government Health IT, HealthLeaders Media.
Increasing Number of Colleges Use Electronic Mental Health Screening More college campus counseling centers are opting for computerized mental health screening questionnaires over traditional paper evaluations to spot more serious issues quickly and to deal with increasing demand for mental health services, the AP/Miami Herald reports.
Senators Call for Greater Use of Rx Drug Monitoring Systems On [24 May] the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Terrorism pressed administration officials and experts for strategies to curb widespread prescription drug misuse, such as electronic tracking systems, McClatchy/Miami Herald reports.
Proposed Rule Would Open Up Medicare Data for Public Reports On [3 June] CMS issued a proposed rule that would allow certain qualified organizations to access Medicare data to compile quality and safety reports about physician practices, hospitals and other health care providers, HealthLeaders Media reports (Tocknell, HealthLeaders Media, 6/6).
CMS To Use Predictive Modeling Tools To Detect Medicare Fraud On July 1, the federal government plans to start using predictive modeling software to uncover potential Medicare and Medicaid fraud before paying claims, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports (Sell, Philadelphia Inquirer, 6/17).
Palm Scanning Tool Cuts Back on Patient ID Errors, Boosts Security Vein recognition technology that links to electronic health record systems can help expedite patient registration and prevent duplication and fraud, InformationWeek reports.
6) From Kaiser Health News – www.kaiserhealthnews.org/
For an eight committee, bipartisan report of “Proposals to Reduce Health Care Spending and the Deficit, go to www.kaiserhealthnews.org/Stories/2011/May/26/Peterson-Health-Care-Deficit-Proposals.aspx
If you must go to a hospital at night or on a weekend, here are some suggestions offered by experts to help patients and families keep themselves safe: www.kaiserhealthnews.org/Stories/2011/June/07/nocturnist-sidebar.aspx
Consumers Maybe Be Unaware Of Their Right To a Review O[f] Health Plan Decisions Reporting for Kaiser Health News, Susan Jaffe writes: “Millions of Americans gained the right this year to appeal decisions made by health plans to an outside, independent decision-maker. But many of these consumers might not know they have the new option -- and when they find out, it might be too late” (Jaffe, 6/10).
HHS Scales Back Rules On Health Insurance Appeals The Obama administration announced Wednesday that it is scaling back some of its earlier rules under the 2010 health law that governed consumers' right to appeal denials by health plans, disappointing patient advocates and earning praise from industry groups (Jaffe, 6/23).
7) From My Medicare Matters – www.mymedicarecommunity.org/
My Medicare Matters offers Webinars (live on-line training) for those who are Medicare advocates. If you are interested in being notified of training sessions, please contact me at esslady@gmail.com
8) From miscellaneous sources
The Independent Payment Advisory Board was created by the 2010 health care law. Last month, in releasing his deficit-reduction plan, President Obama called for increasing the panel’s authority, saying it was critical to controlling the costs of the program, estimated at $524 billion in fiscal 2010. For more, see
www.washingtonpost.com/national/health/controversial-health-board-braces-for-continued-battles-over-medicare/2011/05/03/AFR2ZwTG_story.html
If you are concerned about your gas mileage check out the following for gas saving ideas: www.budgettravel.com/feature/the-7-most-common-gas-guzzling-mistakes,7330/?wpisrc=newsletter
9) From NCOA – www.ncoa.org
For a variety of needs assessment (help over and above Medicare) tools for seniors, go to www.benefitscheckup.org/
For a list of The National Council on Aging’s recommendations on the renewal of the Older Americans Act, go to www.ncoa.org/public-policy/older-americans-act/
Trustees Report on Medicare, Social Security The Social Security and Medicare Board of Trustees released a report [the week of 6 June] showing that while Medicare and Social Security are financially strong today, there is more work to be done. The Medicare Part A Trust Fund will remain solvent for another 13 years—eight years more than expected thanks to the Affordable Care Act. The combined Social Security Trust Funds have resources to pay full benefits for the coming 25 years, the report states.
For a very nice summary of the various Medicare programs, especially Medicare Part D (the drug plan), go to www.centerforbenefits.org/core_benefits_part_d.html
To see the Global Coalition on Population Aging’s 7 Principles, go to www.globalcoalitiononaging.com/?id=global-principles
10) From The New York Times – nytdirect@nytimes.com
For an analysis of the “evidence” indicating that cellphones cause cancer go to well.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/06/06/piercing-the-fog-around-cellphones-and-cancer/?nl=health&emc=healthupdateema2
Biggest Banks in Reverse Mortgages Exit Business Wells Fargo and Bank of America have left the business, as falling home prices have made it more unpredictable.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
