Purpose: To describe the use of chiropractic care by urban and rural residents in Washington state with musculoskeletal diagnoses, all of whom have insurance coverage for this care. The analyses investigate whether restricting the analyses to insured individuals attenuates previously reported differences in the prevalence of chiropractic use between urban and rural residents as well as whether differences in provider availability or patient cost-sharing explain the difference in utilization. Methods: Claims data from 237,500 claimants in 2 large insurance companies in Washington state for calendar year 2002 were analyzed, using adjusted clinical group risk adjustment for differences in disease burden and rural urban commuting area codes for rurality definition. Findings: The proportion of claimants using chiropractors was higher in rural than urban residents (44% vs 32%, P less than 0.001). Lack of conventional providers in rural areas did not completely explain this difference, nor did differences in patient cost-sharing or demographics. Among those who used chiropractors, those in urban areas had more chiropractic visits than users of chiropractic in rural areas. Conclusions: Among insured adults, use of chiropractic care was higher in rural than in urban areas. Reasons suggested for this difference in previous reports were not borne out in this data set.
2009-00-00
Purpose: To identify characteristics and outcomes of patients who use physician assistants and nurse practitioners (PA/NPs) as a usual source of care. Methods: Cross sectional analysis using the telephone and mail surveys of the Wisconsin Longitudinal Study (WLS), a prospective cohort study of Wisconsin high school graduates and selected siblings (n = 6,803). Findings: Individuals from metropolitan (OR = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.29-0.54) and micropolitan (OR = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.44-0.95) areas were less likely to utilize PA/NPs than participants from rural locations. Participants without insurance or with public insurance other than Medicare were more likely than those with private insurance to utilize PA/NPs (OR = 1.71, 95% CI = 1.02-2.86). Patients of PA/NPs were more likely to be women (OR = 1.77, 95% CI = 1.34-2.34), younger (OR = 0.95, 95% CI = 0.92-0.98) and have lower extroversion scores (OR = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.68-0.96). Participants utilizing PA/NPs reported lower perceived access ([beta]=-0.22, 95% CI =-0.35-0.09) than those utilizing doctors. PA/NP utilization was associated with an increased likelihood of chiropractor visits (OR = 1.57, 95% CI = 1.15-2.15) and decreased likelihood of a complete health exams (OR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.55-0.99) or mammograms (OR = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.45-0.93). There were no significant differences in self-rated health or difficulties/delays in receiving care. Conclusions: Populations served by PA/NPs and doctors differ demographically but not in complexity. Though perceived access to care was lower for patients of PA/NPs, there were few differences in utilization and no differences in difficulties/delays in care or outcomes. This suggests that PA/NPs are acting as primary care providers to underserved patients with a range of disease severity, findings which have important implications for policy, including clinician workforce and reimbursement issues.
2009-00-00
Background: Dyslexia is a common learning difficulty affecting up to 10% of British children that is associated with a wide range of cognitive, emotional and physical symptoms. In the absence of effective conventional treatment, it is likely that parents will seek complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to try and help their children. However, little is known about the level of CAM use or the type of CAM used by dyslexic children. Aims: This study assessed: (1) the lifetime use of CAM by dyslexic children, (2) the role of socio-demographic factors in CAM use by dyslexic children, (3) parental attitudes towards CAM use in the treatment of dyslexia, and (4) how parents' understanding of dyslexia affects CAM use. Methods & Procedures: A semi-structured questionnaire-based survey of parents of 148 dyslexic school children was undertaken. The children had been recruited to a university research programme investigating the effectiveness of a complementary therapy for the treatment of learning difficulties. Outcomes & Results: Lifetime use of CAM was 55.4% (82 children). The most popular CAM approaches were nutritional supplements/special diets (63 children) followed by homeopathy (29 children) and osteopathy/chiropractic manipulation (29 children). Socio-demographic factors did not predict CAM use. In total, parents of 101 dyslexic children reported that an interest in CAM for the treatment of dyslexia was based on their preference for CAM for their families more generally. Parents who thought that dyslexia was a "medical/health" disorder were more likely to have used CAM with their children (p less than 0.01) than other parents in this survey. Conclusions & Implications: Educational and health professionals should be aware that many dyslexic children use CAM. Parents of dyslexic children should be provided with evidence-based advice to help them make informed therapeutic choices. (Contains 1 figure and 1 table.)
2009-03-00
Background: Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is popular among U.S. health care consumers, but no study has examined how much health educators know about CAM. Purpose: To examine the knowledge of basic CAM concepts and common CAM therapies among health educators in the U.S. Methods: An online survey was conducted among 1,299 health educators with valid e-mails on a professional listserv. The response rate was 39%. The 16-item CAM knowledge scale yielded a Cronbach's alpha of .71. Results: Participating health educators were most knowledgeable about chiropractic and massage therapy, familiar with the general definition of CAM, understood whether acupuncture is beneficial in treating a variety of health conditions, and whether there is sufficient scientific evidence regarding CAM safety and effectiveness. Participants were unclear about the difference between complementary medicine and alternative medicine. CAM knowledge appeared to be influenced by the participants' sex, education level, race/ethnicity, and employment setting. Discussion: Similar to other studies, participating health educators were more familiar with the concepts of commonly used CAM therapies than those of less widely practiced ones. Translation to Health Education Practice: CAM education should be implemented as part of a professional preparation curriculum and in the form of continuing education for health educators in the U.S. (Contains 7 tables.)
2008-00-00
Purpose: The correlates of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) utilization among elders have not been fully investigated. This study was designed to identify such correlates in a large sample of older adults, thus generating new data relevant to consumer education, medical training, and health practice and policy. Design and Methods: A sub-sample from the 2000 Wave of the Health and Retirement Study (n=1,099) aged 52 or older were surveyed regarding use of CAM (chiropractic, alternative practitioners, dietary and herbal supplements, and personal practices). Results: Of respondents over 65 years of age, 88% used CAM, with dietary supplements and chiropractic most commonly reported (65% and 46%, respectively). Users of alternate practitioners and dietary supplements reported having more out-of-pocket expenses on health than nonusers of these modalities. Age correlated positively with use of dietary supplements and personal practices and inversely with alternative practitioner use. Men reported less CAM use than women, except for chiropractic and personal practices. Blacks and Hispanics used fewer dietary supplements and less chiropractic, but they reported more personal practices than Whites. Advanced education correlated with fewer chiropractic visits and more dietary and herbal supplement and personal practices use. Higher income, functional impairment, alcohol use, and frequent physician visits correlated with more alternative practitioner use. There was no association between CAM and number of chronic diseases. Implications: The magnitude and patterns of CAM use among elders lend considerable importance to this field in public health policy making and suggest a need for further epidemiological research and ongoing awareness efforts for both patients and providers.
2005-08-01
Background: There is debate about a 10% versus 15% of body weight cutoff point for safe weight of school backpacks. Estimation of the cutoff may be affected by use of survey methods and failure to assess pain experienced while wearing a backpack. Previous research also suggests that younger students and females are more at risk for developing backpack pain. Methods: Five hundred and thirty-one 5th- to 12th-grade Northern California students and their backpacks were weighed. Students were individually interviewed about how often they experienced pain while carrying a backpack, the site of their pain, and if the pain had interfered with school activities or led to medical care. Results: Data support the use of a 10% of body weight cutoff for safe use of backpacks for all grade levels. Younger students and females are more at risk due to relatively lower body weight while females also carry heavier backpacks than males. Greater relative backpack weight is associated with upper and midback pain reports but not neck or lower back pain; it is also associated with lost school time, lost school sports time, and greater chiropractic utilization. Conclusions: The 10% cutoff is recommended along with a variety of practical methods to help schools achieve that goal for middle and high school students.
2007-05-00
"Chronicle of Higher Education" presents an abundant source of news and information for college and university faculty members and administrators. This January 28, 2005 issue of "Chronicle for Higher Education" includes the following articles: (1) "Wasting Money: A Failed Fund-Raising Trip Makes a Development Officer Rethink How He Spends His College's Money" (Drozdowski, Mark J.); (2) "Who Really Benefits" (Lang, James M.); (3) "6 Major Challenges Facing Student Health Programs" (Blom, Stephen D.; Beckley, Stephen L.); (4) "How One College Store Has Stayed Independent" (Mitchel, George H.); (5) "Outsourcing Can Make Sense, But Proceed with Caution" (Davies, Paul); (6) "Chicken Strips and Pizza Please the Masses" (Biemiller, Lawrence); (7) "The Life of a Campus: 43 Buses, 9 Million Rides" (Biemiller, Lawrence); (8) "The Life of a Campus: A Bookstore for all Seasons" (Biemiller, Lawrence); (9) "Do-It All Campus ID Cards: Too Corporate?" (Blum, Debra E.); (10) "One-Stop Shopping for Campus Housing" (Gose, Ben); (11) "The Companies That Colleges Keep: From Food Services to Bookstores to Campus Security, Outsourcing Has Become the Way to Do Business" (Gose, Ben); (12) "Is There a Pattern to the Music Industry's File-Sharing Lawsuits?" (Read, Brock); (13) "One Man's Software Is Another Man's Spyware" (Kiernan, Vincent); (14) "The Next Plague: As Spyware and Adware Invade Campus Computers, Officials Ponder What to Do" (Kiernan, Vincent); (15) "Choosing Their Flock" (Bollag, Burton); (16) "Justice Department Supports $1-Billion False-Claims Against University of Phoenix" (Blumenstyk, Goldie); (17) "Congress to Get Report on Simplifying Student-Aid Process" (Field, Kelly); (18) "President Bush Calls for Increase in Pell Grants" (Burd, Stephen); (19) "A New Route to Racial Diversity" (Schmidt, Peter); (20) "Moonstruck Scientists Hail Mission to Titan" (Monastersky, Richard); (21) "The Grand Dame of Poetry Criticism" (Mclemee, Scott); (22) "Harvard's President Wonders Aloud about Women in Science and Math" (Fogg, Piper); (23) "Not in Our Backyard: Doctors at Florida State's New Medical College Say a Proposed Chiropractic School Would Be a Pain in the Neck" (Mangan, Katherine S.); and (24) "Endowments See Big Surge, Average a 15% Gain" (Strout, Erin).
2005-01-28
Chicago's Puerto Rican community in West Town had a unique reaction to the spread of AIDS within its limits. They created their own institutions and tackled the epidemic themselves. In its infancy, Vida/SIDA, which translates as Life/AIDS, was solely an alternative health clinic for people with AIDS. Free of charge, it provided services such as acupuncture, massage therapy, chiropractic care, nutritional counselling, and even t'ai chi. Its venue was The West Town Law Office. Attorney Melinda Power allowed her first floor offices to be taken over during evening hours and included the heat, electricity, and telephone services -pro bono. This article describes Vida/Sida, the only organic, HIV/AIDS education, prevention, and treatment programme in the area. The author discusses his role as a bilingual outreach educator and activist with the Vida/SIDA collective.
2004-00-00
A study at one institution found significant correlations between students' scores on the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners test and academic achievement data. Results indicate that it is not always course subject matter that influences the relationship between course grade and board scores, but may instead be the ability to assimilate information and to reason. (MSE)
1999-00-00
Describes development and expansion of Life University (Georgia) to an institution with 3,500 students offering the doctor of chiropractic degree, a master's degree in sport health science, and bachelor's degrees in 32 related areas. Notes the president's dominant role and critics' objections to high salaries for the president and his family members. Reports a new emphasis on obtaining research grants. (DB)
1999-00-00
This state-mandated study examined the needs of Iowa chiropractic students and the Iowa demand for chiropractic health care in order to determine the feasibility of establishing a chiropractic forgivable loan program. The project used financial aid data and repayment rate data to evaluate the need for financial aid for chiropractic students; staffing levels and projections; labor data; population data; use of chiropractic services by health maintenance organizations; and community recruitment information to assess the demand for chiropractic practitioners. Results of the analysis include: loans account for 82 percent of all student aid to chiropractic students; 98 percent of Palmer College of Chiropractic (Iowa) graduates repay their loans; these students usually borrow about $62,000 for their education; graduating students typically take entry-level positions that pay about $30,000 per year; graduating chiropractic physicians may create actual market demand for their services; 43 states have fewer chiropractic physicians per resident than Iowa; and about 35 Doctors of Chiropractic who graduate from Palmer College of Chiropractic each year locate in Iowa; and job market projections estimate that there are about 29 openings for such doctors each year. The comments of Palmer College of Chiropractic are included. (Contains 12 references.) (JB)
1995-01-00
Describes the implementation of the innovative Guided Discovery Curriculum at the National College of Chiropractic. Emphasizes the relevance of biochemical principles to clinical practice through the selection of two clinical cases. (DDR)
1998-00-00
This study examined attitudes of people about benefits of the economic impacts of two local colleges (Palmer College of Chiropractic and Scott Community College) in the metropolitan Quad Cities area of Rock Island County (Illinois) and Scott County (Iowa). The study compared impacts considered important by the community with those estimated by the majority of economic impact studies. Data were collected using focus group interviews of two sets of representatives of the local chambers of commerce, city and county governments, and the general public. Both groups felt that purchases from local businesses made by the colleges, their faculties, students and visitors were economic impacts of primary importance. Economic impacts of secondary importance included the colleges' ability to attract new businesses to the community, employee training provided by the community college, the inflation of prices for rental housing, the community college's role in retaining young people in the area, the costs of providing government services to the colleges and people affiliated with them, college-related taxes received by local governments, income from college-related jobs, foregone revenue due to the colleges' tax-exempt status, availability of college students as part-time employees for local businesses, and the colleges' nonmonetary investment benefits. It is concluded that knowledgable people have firm opinions about the economic contributions of colleges and universities, absent any economic impact studies or public relations efforts. (Contains 3 figures, 2 tables, and 10 references.) (CK)
1996-05-00
The laws, rules and regulations of the State Education Department governing chiropractic practice in New York State are provided in this handbook. Requirements and procedures are also highlighted, and the forms for obtaining a license and first registration as a chiropractor are provided. The booklet is divided into the following sections: professional regulation in New York State, licensure requirements, licensure forms, education law, Commissioner's regulations, rules of the Board of Regents, other regulations, listing of approved chiropractic colleges, reference texts, and laboratory tests. (KM)
1988-09-00
This paper presents a list of periodicals that cover issues in college teaching for experienced and novice teachers. Periodicals are listed for 75 specific academic fields and for higher education in general. The specific academic fields include accounting, agricultural engineering, agriculture, agronomy, anthropology, architecture, art, behavioral science, biochemistry, biology, business, business education, chemical engineering, chemistry, chiropractic, communications, computer science, counseling, criminal justice, dentistry, design, dietetics, economics, education, engineering, English, family studies, finance, nutrition, geography, geology, history, hospitality and tourism, instructional design, journalism, physical education, law, library science, management, mathematics, medicine, modern languages, music, nursing, pharmacy, philosophy, physics, physiology, political science, psychology, regional and community planning, theology, science, social studies, social work, sociology, statistics, theater, veterinary medicine, and women's education. (Contains 3 references.) (JPB)
1994-01-00
This annual report of the Alabama Commission on Higher Education describes new academic programs approved, allied health programs, off-campus instruction, computer-based articulation, rising junior exam, the Academic Common Market, educational technologies, Governor's Conference on Higher Education, Eminent Scholars Program, Meharry Medical College, Minority Doctor Scholars Program, osteopathic medicine, veterinary medicine, optometry, nonresident institutional review, State Postsecondary Review Entity, Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research, Alabama Universities/TVA Research Consortium, Dwight D. Eisenhower Mathematics and Science Program, Alabama Small Business Development Consortium, and Network of Alabama Academic Libraries. Financial aid programs administered by the Commission are then described, including Technology Scholarship Program for Alabama teachers, National Guard tuition benefit program, Paul Douglas Teacher Scholarship Program, Appalachian Youth Scholarship Program, Alabama Guaranteed Student Loan Program (AGSLP), Alabama Student Grant Program, Alabama Student Assistance Program, Emergency Secondary Education Scholarship Program, State of Alabama Chiropractic Scholarship Program, Alabama National Guard Educational Assistance Program, and Police Officer's/Firefighter's Survivor's Educational Assistance. Tables and a graph indicate the number of awards, the average award, and the total amount awarded for Alabama's student assistance programs; number of loans guaranteed by the AGSLP from 1981-1994; and number of AGSLP borrowers from 1981-1994. (JDD)
1994-00-00
This report presents recommendations for Illinois' Board of Higher Education's approval in the areas of: (1) general policies for health professions education, (2) the adoption of immediate program priorities to implement the general policy directions in health education programs, and (3) specific recommendations for adjustments in Health Services Education Grants Act (HSEGA) grant rates and rules. A summary is also provided of findings from the May 1993 report entitled "Policy Issues In Education For The Health Professions." Recommendations are based on additional staff analyses and information submitted by colleges, universities, and organizations since the May 1993 report. Specific discussions concern minority representation in health professions education, underserved areas and primary health care, and the need for capacity adjustments in the health professions. A table details capacity recommendations for the following areas: medicine, dentistry, chiropractic, optometry, podiatry, pharmacy, nursing, allied health professions, health services administration, and public health. The report's final sections present, first, the proposed HSEGA grant rates and modifications to the grant rules for each of the professional areas, for Illinois residents and non-residents, and for various educational levels; and, second, the specific staff recommendations in the areas of general policy, immediate program priorities, and adjustments in the HSEGA grant rates and rules. (GLR)
1993-09-08
As recruitment budgets continue to tighten and with fewer colleges reporting application increases for their freshmen classes, enrollment managers must continue to explore all potential sources of recruitment talent. Alumni are often an underutilized or sometimes poorly utilized resource in recruitment efforts. Younger alumni, for example, may find it difficult to contribute financially to the institution. These same young alumni may find the privilege of representing the college as a welcome opportunity to immediately give something back to their alma mater. This paper outlines some key steps in establishing and maintaining an effective alumni recruitment program. It emphasizes the importance of training volunteers and proposes an organizational framework for development of such a program. Those interested in establishing an effective alumni admissions program are encouraged to first develop a written strategic plan for specifically utilizing alumni in student recruitment. Resources that can help in developing this plan are suggested. It is also suggested that objectives be set, program parameters and membership goals be established, personnel and budgetary considerations be addressed, and support from the college administration by secured. The next sections focus on how to recruit alumni volunteers, structure the program, train volunteers, remove volunteers when necessary, and evaluate the effectiveness of the program. The document concludes by briefly describing the formal alumni recruitment program begun at New York Chiropractic College in 1991. (NB)
1993-10-00
This report contains information from a fall 1991 health occupations assessment of 1,021 health-related employers in Eastern Iowa and the Illinois Quad Cities area. Twelve chapters present comprehensive results of all surveys; results of 10 labor market survey instruments developed for chiropractic offices, dentists' offices, emergency medical services, home health care organizations, hospitals, laboratories, long-term health care facilities, physicians' offices/clinics, veterinary offices, and weight control services; and results of another instrument for certified/licensed health professionals. Information is provided from 350 respondents regarding these broad personnel classifications: chiropractic, clinical laboratory, dental, emergency medical, medical records, nursing, occupational therapy, pharmacy, physical therapy, and radiology. Chapters 2-12 are in two parts. The first part discusses target markets, survey design, and data collection, tabulation, and analysis. Results presented in narrative and table formats provide information on number of present full-time and part-time employees, entry-level hourly wage paid to employees in each of the personnel classifications, and immediate and projected employment needs through 1994. Responses regarding emerging trends and educational needs are then provided. The second part of each chapter is the instrument. (YLB)
1992-03-00
This reference guide contains laws, regulations, and licensing requirements and procedures governing chiropractic practice in New York State. Following a general introduction to professional regulation in New York State, licensure requirements are spelled out in detail, including general requirements, education requirements, examination information, and fee information. Licensure forms are included. The guide then provides: (1) four relevant articles from Title VIII of the Education Law, covering general provisions, medicine, chiropractic, and physical therapy; (2) regulations of the Commissioner of Education, focusing on general provisions, registration of curricula, and chiropractic; (3) rules of the Board of Regents for disciplinary proceedings, professional licensing, determination of good moral character, and unprofessional conduct; (4) a list of 14 reference texts for the New York State Clinical Competence Examination; (5) a list of approved chiropractic colleges; and (6) a list of laboratory tests approved for chiropractic. (JDD)
1990-02-00
Sheath tip may break off and separate during heart procedures, causing a blockage that could lead to permanent injury and/or death.
Thu, 11 Mar 2010 15:45:00 -0500
FDA review of available data have not shown a clear connection between bisphosphonate use and a risk of atypical subtrochanteric femur fractures.
Thu, 11 Mar 2010 11:15:00 -0500
Incorrect sodium results may be caused by build-up of protein, bacteria, and sample tube additives in the ion selective electrode flow cell.
Thu, 11 Mar 2010 09:15:00 -0500
Device computer may shut down without an alarm, which can lead to serious injuries or death.
Wed, 10 Mar 2010 16:20:00 -0500
Cases of intravascular hemolysis and its complications have been reported in patients treated for immune thrombocytopenic purpura with WinRho.
Wed, 10 Mar 2010 12:50:00 -0500
UPDATED 03/08/2010: Recall classified as Class I, expanded list of affected models. Originally posted 02/09/2010
Mon, 08 Mar 2010 14:15:00 -0500
Sheath tip may break off and separate during heart procedures, causing a blockage that could lead to permanent injury and/or death.
Fri, 05 Mar 2010 12:20:00 -0500
Reports of serious injuries and at least one death have been associated with increased Intraperitoneal Volume (IIPV), also known as overfill of the abdominal cavity.
Wed, 03 Mar 2010 11:55:00 -0500
Test strips are being recalled because they may provide falsely low glucose results when the glucose level is higher than 400 mg/dL.
Fri, 26 Feb 2010 17:05:00 -0500
Rotor may break and eject pieces of the rotor which may cause serious physical injury to bystanders and expose them to blood-borne infectious micro-organisms.
Fri, 26 Feb 2010 14:05:00 -0500
Possible association with abnormal heart rhythms when used in combination with Norvir (ritonavir).
Tue, 23 Feb 2010 13:32:00 -0500
FDA is reviewing data from a large, long-term clinical study on possible risks for cardiovascular outcomes associated with use of rosiglitazone.
Mon, 22 Feb 2010 15:00:00 -0500
Consumers warned not to use ear candles because they can cause serious injuries, even when used according to the manufacturer’s directions.
Sat, 20 Feb 2010 16:15:00 -0500
FDA requires risk management plan and class-labeling changes for all LABAs.
Thu, 18 Feb 2010 15:20:00 -0500
Changes to Prescribing Information re: risk of renal impairment/failure, hepatic impairment/failure or gastrointestinal hemorrhage.
Thu, 18 Feb 2010 08:55:00 -0500
Consumers who have a history of gastrointestinal ulcers or a bleeding disorder should not use Maalox Total Relief because it contains bismuth subsalicylate, a substance chemically related to aspirin.
Wed, 17 Feb 2010 19:30:00 -0500
FDA requires REMS that ensures that only those hospitals and healthcare professionals who have enrolled and completed training in risk management program will prescribe and dispense ESAs to patients with cancer.
Tue, 16 Feb 2010 10:55:00 -0500
Device may cause an air embolism or leakage of blood and/or therapy, which may result in serious injury or death.
Tue, 09 Feb 2010 18:00:00 -0500
Risk of developing progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) increases with increasing duration of exposure to Tysabri.
Fri, 05 Feb 2010 11:00:00 -0500
Sheath tip may break off and separate while the sheath is inside a blood vessel, leading to serious injury or death.
Thu, 04 Feb 2010 14:40:00 -0500
Spring break is family time. You deserve a vacation free from hassles. Plan ahead so your family getaway is enjoyable and fun for everyone. Pack smart, drive safely, eat healthy. Read more...
11 Mar 2010 19:01:24 GMT
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers in Puerto Rico that two hand sanitizers Bee-Shield Hand Sanitizer with Aloe Vera (10 fl. oz. or 1 gallon bottles) and MD Quality Hand Sanitizer with Aloe Vera (10 fl oz. bottles) contain high levels of a bacteria, Burkholderia cepacia, that can cause serious infections in humans. The hand sanitizers are distributed only in Puerto Rico. Although no adverse effects with these products have been reported to the FDA, the agency is recommending that consumers not use them and throw them away. Read more...
9 Mar 2010 20:00:32 GMT
You may want to make sure you know where your health insurance card is. According to a new study, 7 percent of identity fraud victims this year reported identity thieves stole their health insurance information, up from just 3 percent last year. Such health insurance identity theft occurs when someone impersonates someone else at a hospital or doctor’s office using a stolen health insurance card or account number or even just personal information learn they are victims of such fraud when they get a medical bill or a notice about what will be covered from their health insurance company. The rise of this relatively new area of identity fraud is mainly because of two factors : medical providers’ putting more records in more easily accessible electronic form, and the large numbers of people unable to get health care coverage. Read more...
19 Feb 2010 18:30:51 GMT
Medical costs are a big issue on everyone’s mind these days with the ongoing debate about health care. February is National Wise Health Care Consumer Month, a time to raise awareness about how you spend money on your health.
Check out these tips from the Federal Citizen Information Center for easy ways you can trim the cost of medicine, fitness and more:
Switch to generic. Because of legal restrictions, a generic drug might not look exactly the same as the brand name choice, but it contains the same active ingredients and is just as effective. Brand name drugs cost more than their generic counterparts because the makers of the original, brand name versions had to pay for the research, development and marketing of the medications. Learn more from the Generic Drugs publication from the Food and Drug Administration.
Watch out for scams. They keep coming back in different forms on TV and the internet but one thing stays the same: health scams charge you lots of money for “miracle” cures. And the diet pills and enhancement products they push could be dangerous or have harmful interactions with your other medicines. Save your money for tried-and-true methods or doctor prescribed medicines. Read about common ploys in Health Scams from the Food and Drug Administration.
Reconsider the gym. Gym memberships can be costly, and if you aren’t using your membership regularly, it could be one place where you could save some money. If you’re worried about how you’ll fit your exercise in without the gym, Be Active Your Way from the Department of Health and Human Services suggests several alternate forms of exercise that you can fit into your everyday life.
In tough economic times, we’re all looking to pinch pennies wherever we can. Try out some of these simple suggestions from the Federal Citizen Information Center to help you save money and stay healthy.
There are two ways to get copies of these publications:
1. Read or download them online:
2. Order printed copies of Health Scams, Be Active Your Way and Generic Drugs (subject to availability) by:
- Visiting www.pueblo.gsa.gov to place your order online
- Calling toll-free 1 (888) 8 PUEBLO. That’s 1 (888) 878-3256, weekdays 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST and asking for Item 576V, Health Scams, Item 116V, Be Active Your Way or Item 555V, Generic Drugs.
17 Feb 2010 19:28:59 GMT
Most parents make sure their children get all their vaccinations, but when it comes to adults these protective shots often fall by the wayside, a new report shows. Read more...
16 Feb 2010 19:28:43 GMT
Making healthy food choices is one of many lifestyle changes that can help reduce your risk for getting heart disease—the No. 1 killer in the United States. The Nutrition Facts found on most foods and health claims allowed on some foods can help you choose wisely. Read more...
4 Jan 2010 19:04:35 GMT
Nipro Medical Corporation, Miami FL, is initiating a nationwide recall of all GlucoPro Insulin Syringes (This does not include the GlucoPro syringe specific for use with the Amigo Insulin pump). These syringes may have needles that detach from the syringe. If the needle becomes detached from the syringe during use, it can become stuck in the insulin vial, push back into the syringe, or remain in the skin after injection. Consumers who have GlucoPro Insulin Syringes should stop using and return them to point of sale for reimbursement. No injuries have been reported to date. Read more...
29 Jan 2010 19:46:28 GMT
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers about a counterfeit and potentially harmful version of Alli 60 mg capsules (120 count refill kit). Consumers began reporting suspected counterfeit Alli to GSK in early December 2009. GSK has determined that the counterfeit product has been sold over the internet. However, there is no evidence at this time that the counterfeit Alli product has been sold through other channels, such as retail stores. The counterfeit Alli product looks similar to the authentic product, with a few notable differences. Read more...
21 Jan 2010 19:48:00 GMT
HP Hood is recalling select Heluva Good branded 8 oz. plastic cup containers of Cold Pack Cheese Food because they may contain Listeria monocytogenes. The recalled products were distributed in stores in the following states: New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware, Ohio, Virginia, West Virginia, Maine, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont and Rhode Island. No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with the product and codes listed below. Read more...
14 Jan 2010 12:34:41 GMT
Michael J. Astrue, Commissioner of Social Security, and Chubby Checker, Grammy Award winner and rock and roll legend, today launched a new campaign to inform millions of Americans about a new "twist" in the law that makes it easier to qualify for extra help with Medicare prescription drug costs. The extra help program currently provides assistance to more than nine million senior and disabled Americans -- saving them an average of almost $4,000 a year on their Medicare prescription drug plan costs. "The changes in the Medicare law that take effect this month will allow hundreds of thousands of Americans who are struggling to pay their prescription drug costs to get extra help during these tough economic times," said Commissioner Astrue. Read more...
12 Jan 2010 18:47:15 GMT
When the temperature drops, staying safe and warm and performing everyday activities can be challenging and dangerous. Young children, older adults, and the chronically ill are most at risk of having cold-related health problems. Read more...
8 Jan 2010 16:31:05 GMT
Colder temperatures can bring some relief to those allergic to mold and pollen. But winter doesn't mean the end of runny noses, itchy eyes and wheezing for asthma and allergy sufferers. Spending more time indoors can mean more problems with dust mites, pet dander, cigarette smoke, gas fumes and household sprays and chemicals, any of which can trigger asthma symptoms. Read more...
6 Jan 2010 15:59:20 GMT
The cold and flu medicine contains acetaminophen and is not in child-resistant packaging and lacks the statement, "This Package for Households Without Young Children," as required by the Poison Prevention Packaging Act. This medicine could cause serious health problems or death to a child if several of the capsules are swallowed. The recall involves Vicks Dayquil Cold & Flu 24-Count Bonus Pack Liquicaps. The medicine comes in orange packaging with the green Vicks symbol and has the following UPC#: 3 23900 01087 1. No other Vick’s product is included in this recall. Read more...
23 Dec 2009 14:38:06 GMT
CDC has received reports of fraudulent emails (phishing) referencing a CDC sponsored State Vaccination Program. The messages request that users must create a personal H1N1 (swine flu) Vaccination Profile on the cdc.gov website. The message then states that anyone that has reached the age of 18 has to have his/her personal Vaccination Profile on the cdc.gov site. The CDC has NOT implemented a state vaccination program requiring registration on www.cdc.gov. Users that click on the email are at risk of having malicious code installed on their system. Read more...
18 Dec 2009 16:04:19 GMT
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is warning consumers to beware of unscrupulous vendors who may market ineffective and unregistered products or services that claim to disinfect surfaces or entire rooms against the H1N1 influenza virus. In the current flu-conscious climate, heightened anxiety about the spread of the H1N1 virus has bred false claims in the marketplace. Read more...
18 Dec 2009 16:00:37 GMT
Winter storms and cold temperatures can be hazardous, but if you plan ahead, you can stay safe and healthy. Prepare your home and cars. Keep emergency kits stocked. Be ready for power outages. Wear appropriate clothing. Check on children, the elderly and pets. Read more...
16 Dec 2009 14:18:22 GMT
Unilever United States, Inc., in cooperation with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is conducting a nationwide voluntary recall of all Slim-Fast® ready-to-drink (RTD) products in cans, due to the possibility of contamination with Bacillus cereus, a micro-organism, which may cause diarrhea and possibly nausea and/or vomiting. The products are packaged in paperboard cartons and contain four, six or 12 steel cans that are 11 FL OZ (325 mL) each. Individual cans are also sold in certain retail outlets. The recall involves all Slim-Fast® RTD products in cans, regardless of flavor, Best-By date, lot code or UPC number. Read more...
10 Dec 2009 19:03:18 GMT
La Espiga de Oro, Inc. of Houston, Texas is recalling Fiesta brand Flour Burrito Tortillas in 12 count packages, because they may contain undeclared whey (milk allergen). People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk allergens run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product. The recall was initiated after it was discovered that product containing whey was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of whey. Read more...
2 Dec 2009 17:45:17 GMT
Advance Food Company of Enid, Oklahoma is recalling approximately 110,730 pounds of frozen beef steak fritter products that may contain foreign materials. Subject to recall are 9.75-pound bulk cases of ADVANCE FOOD COMPANY, Beef Steak Fritter, For Country Frying, Chopped & Formed, Keep Frozen, 13/12. Each case label bears the establishment number 'EST. 2260Y' inside the USDA mark of inspection, a case code of '94612-100' and a 'Best if Used By 09/23/2010' sticker located on the end panel. Each case also bears the lot number beginning with 'N0239' which is located on the side panel. Read more...
2 Dec 2009 17:44:42 GMT
Vita Food Products, Inc. of Chicago, IL is voluntarily recalling its Elf Branded Herring in Sour Cream product distributed in retail stores in California, Texas, Massachusetts, Maryland, Georgia, Florida, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin because their labels do not disclose that the product contains wheat. There are two sizes affected by the recall. Read more...
2 Dec 2009 17:41:09 GMT