Posts Tagged ‘Benefits’

Natural Health Products And Their Benefits

June 24th, 2011

Natural Health Products And Their Benefits

Natural health and beauty products are products originating from plants or plant extracts used for their medicinal properties. These products are usually taken for self healing, treating diseases, improving the immune system and promoting good health. Natural remedies are sold in grocery stores, pharmacies and health food stores and even online now and they do not require prescriptions from a doctor. These natural herbal products always include vitamins and minerals, herbal remedies, traditional medicines, probiotics, amino acids and essential fatty acids.

These natural herbal health supplements are widely used in non industrialized societies. A number of traditions came to dominate the practice of herbal medicine at the end of the twentieth century: These classical medicine system include the Siddha and Ayurvedic medicine systems from various South African countries, Chinese herbal medicine or Chinese herbology, Shamanic herbalism, Unani Tibb medicine and Native American medicine.

A recent survey indicates that 71% have taken natural health supplements such as herbs, vitamins or homeopathic remedies and many take them on a daily or weekly basis. Various factors drive consumer demand for natural herbal health products, including individual frustrations with conventional treatments, desire for greater autonomy and empowerment regarding health care choices, chronic health issues, and cultural influences.

Although natural herbal health products are routinely available without prescription, that does not mean they are completely safe for all individuals. Some may have known side effects, so it’s best to check with your pharmacist or health care professional for advice. They are identified as the most professional to counsel consumers about herbal natural health supplements by offering evidence-based information to ensure safe product selection.

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An Assessment of Benefits and Potential Health and Environmental Hazards from Compact Fluorescent Lights

May 7th, 2011

Introduction

The purpose of this study is to examine the benefits as well as potential health and environmental risks of compact fluorescent light bulbs. This is achieved by reviewing literature that has existing research and highlighting the areas with important gaps to allow future rounds of either qualitative or quantitative research. This paper presents a summary and reviews of existing studies and augmented with information from new research conducted.

As traditional light bulbs are soon to be phased out and compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) become compulsory (Energy Saving Trust, 2009) concerns have been raised over the health and environmental risks CFLs pose. Some health risks that have been highlighted by concern groups, as will be shown in this paper, are headaches, epilepsy and skin conditions. The presence of mercury in CFLs could also be of concern to consumers. There have been claims that the mercury in them makes CFLs so dangerous that everyone must leave the room for at least 15 minutes if one falls to the floor and breaks (Delgado 2008). However, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra, 2009) and the Energy Saving Trust (2009) contend that climate change is the biggest threat facing the Earth today and measures aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions are necessary. Defra (2009) argues that CFLs can play an important role in this regard as they are more efficient and use up less electricity than the traditional bulbs.

The rationale for this research project is that it is intended to explore the extent to which information of the benefits, hazards and policies on CFLs is shared with the general populace by manufacturers, retailers and government environmental and health agencies. It is hoped that after this research, manufacturers of CFLs, retailers, environmental agencies and local authorities would provide more information on CFLs. Studies like this one could help governments to make decisions on energy issues and the climate change problem based on research findings.

 Aim and Objectives of the research

The aim of this study is to establish and critically assess the extent to which the knowledge of benefits and potential health and environmental risks of CFLs has been disseminated to the general public.

The objectives are to:

·         Critically review the benefits of CFLs.

·         Critically review the health and environmental risks of CFLs.

·         Assess the information provided on the packaging of CFLs from different manufacturers and distributed by major retailers such as ASDA, TESCO, B&Q, Morrison’s and Homebase.

·         Explore the extent to which information on the hazards of CFLs has been disseminated by manufacturers, retailers, health and environmental agencies.

·         Critically assess the relationship between government health and environmental policies on CFLs.

 Methodology

This study is mainly a desktop based evaluation research aimed at testing the effectiveness of information dissemination (Patton 1990).  Literature reviews on CFLs were analysed using local and university library facilities (books, journals, research papers etc) and the internet. Websites of manufacturers and retailers of CFLs, government environmental agencies and other organizations were critically analysed. Packaging on CFLs from different manufacturers (see appendix 2) that included Philips, General Electric (GE) and TESCO were also critically assessed to note any information provided to consumers. Major retailers of CFLs that included ASDA, TESCO, B&Q, Morrison’s and Homebase were surveyed in order to determine whether or not they provided any information on CFLs. This was achieved by talking to their respective customer and/or environmental services departments (where available) as well as noting for posters, notices or leaflets on the disposal and/or recycling of CFLs in or around the shops.

 Results and discussion of the study

 Benefits of CFLs

A review of literature revealed that the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra, 2009) contends that climate change is the biggest threat facing the Earth today and everyone, including governments, businesses and individuals, needs to work together to tackle climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions (Defra, 2009). Defra (2009) further state that the UK Government has been working with all major retailers who sell light bulbs and UK energy suppliers to phase out traditional energy guzzling bulbs, replacing them with energy efficient light bulbs such as Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) which are up to 80% more efficient than incandescent lamps. Defra (2009) further suggests that phasing out traditional light bulbs will result in less energy being used and hence less electricity will be needed. 

The Health Protection Agency (HPA, 2008) has indicated that CFLs are an integral part of UK Government policy to encourage more efficient lighting in homes and workplaces thus saving energy and reducing UK carbon dioxide emissions. The Energy Saving Trust (2009) advises that CFLs are also cost effective and will last up to 10 times longer than a traditional bulb and that just one energy saving bulb could save up to £3-6 a year and fitting all the lights in a house with energy saving bulbs could save around £37 a year and £590 over the lifetime of all of the bulbs.  Estimates by the Energy Saving Trust (2009) also indicate that in a lifetime of a CFL, a household could reduce its CO2 emissions by 2.7 tonnes by changing to energy saving bulbs.

Furthermore, the Energy Saving Trust (2010) has pointed out that major UK retailers had ceased to replace their stock of incandescent bulbs over 75W since January 2009 under the voluntary initiative which expanded to 60W and over in January 2010. This voluntary initiative, according to the Energy Saving Trust (2010), was operating in advance of the EU-wide mandatory phase-out of incandescent bulbs that began on 1st September 2009 with the phasing out of 100W lamps, as agreed by EU Member states in December 2008. Under the regulations which have been implemented in the UK, it is illegal for retailers to import 100W incandescent light bulbs, or to sell them once their current stocks have run out (Gray and McWatt , 2009). The UK government has targeted January 2011 as the date by which all incandescent bulbs should be completely phased out and the EU has targeted September 2012 (Energy Saving Trust, 2009).

  Health risks

UV radiation

Research by the Health Protection Agency (HPA, 2008) indicates that single envelope CFLs emit UV radiation at high levels and as such should not be used at close range (closer to the skin than 30cm (1 ft) for more than an hour a day). The research by the Health Protection Agency (HPA) scientists revealed that 20% of unencapsulated fluorescent light bulb (where the shape of the coil is clearly visible) emitted higher than guideline levels of UV radiation recommended by the International Commission on Non- Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP).  The guidelines limit, according to the HPA (2008), is 30J m-2 for the eye and skin. In the same research by the HPA (2008), the scientists assessed that the time taken for 20% of CFLs to exceed the ICNIRP guidelines at close proximity (2cm) was 10 minutes and 30 minutes for 50% of CFLs. However, at distances larger than 20cm only 8% of the CFLs tested exceeded the guidelines after 8 hours. The HPA (2008) study concluded that encapsulated (double envelope) CFLs do not emit significant UV radiation and can be used without any special precautionary measures.

The researchers suggested that the UV can cause reddening of the skin if used for long periods of time at close range and that exposure to UV radiation can also cause problems for people suffering from some medical conditions such as Lumpus (HPA, 2008). There is also a small increased risk of skin cancer from the bulbs similar to that from sunburn.  It could be argued that this could be especially a problem and could affect thousands of workers such as jewellery makers who work with their hands and use lamps at close quarters; and when they are used  in desk lamps or reading lights. The research findings (Laurance, 2008) prompted the HPA to provide advice to the UK Government, the European Commission and the UK lighting industry bodies about the risks of CFLs.

 Radio Frequency Radiation

Studies conducted by Dr Magda Havas, Associate Professor of Environmental and Resource Studies at the Trent University in Canada for the Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENIHR) in 2008 identified another health risk posed by CFLs (Havas, 2008). The study according to Havas (2008) revealed that typical CFLs are electronically-ballasted and hence operate in the 24 -100kHz frequency range which is within the radio frequency band of the electromagnetic spectrum and is classified as Intermediate Frequency (IF) by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and that IF can have adverse health effects. Havas (2008) highlights studies conducted on CFLs produced by General Electric which indicate that they emit radio frequencies directly through the air and generate IF on wires which causes ‘dirty electricity’. Havas (2008) states that a study of cancer clusters in a school conducted in California  associated ‘dirty electricity’ with increased risk of cancer among teachers and that in a different study in Toronto, improved power quality was associated with improved health among teachers and improved behaviour among their students. Havas (2008) concludes that ‘dirty electricity’ caused by CFLs in schools contributes to ill health of teachers and behavioural problems among students.

 Presence of mercury

Research findings (HPA, 2008 and EPA, 2008) indicate that CFLs contain up to 5mg of mecury. It is the mercury which emits UV radiation when electrically excited which in turn interacts with chemicals on the inside of the bulbs to generate light (Havas, 2008). The Health Protection Agency (HPA, 2009) has described mercury as a neurotoxin because it can damage the central nervous system, and in severe cases irreversible damage to areas of the brain can occur. Research findings by Medicinenet (2009) indicate that high levels of mercury in the blood stream of unborn babies and young children may harm the developing nervous system, making the child less capable of thinking and learning as well as having an increased chance of suffering from Autism.

However, Defra (2008) suggests that the mercury cannot escape from an intact lamp unless it breaks and further contends that CFLs are actually harder to break than traditional bulbs as they are often coated with plastic as a protector and that breakage rates are less than 1%.. However, the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS, 2008) and supported by Fabiano (2008) indicated that studies at Brown University in the USA revealed that mercury vapour from broken CFLs is a major hazard. The research team (NIEHS, 2008) found that breakage of a CFL produces mercury vapour concentrations that exceed the limit of 0.2micrograms per cubic metre and that mercury vapour release is greatest at breakage and also that although the concentration is greatly reduced with time as it decays by the hour, it can still be detected in significant quantities even after 4 days in an enclosed room.

The presence of mercury is also confounded in the manufacturing process of CFLs (Nelson, 2009). Studies in China where most of the world’s CFLs are produced and where factory conditions are poorly regulated (Nelson, 2009 and Joseph 2009)) have revealed that Chinese workers making CFLs for Western consumers have been sickened by the hundreds due to mercury poisoning. Nelson (2009) argues that while poor factory conditions in China shoulder most of the blame with many factory conditions being deplorable, hundreds of Chinese workers are exposed to mercury poisoning on a daily basis and that some tests had demonstrated concentrations of mercury in factory workers of up to 150 times the accepted standard leading to many being frequently hospitalized. Both Nelson (2009) and Joseph (2009) contend that the problems have escalated in recent years due to the increased demand as a result of the EU directive making CFLs compulsory by 2012. Whereas CFLs are necessary in combating climate change and energy consumption, it could be argued that it is equally important that consumers need to be aware of where and how their bulbs are produced and consider the costs to humans and the environment.

 Migraines and Epilepsy

There have been concerns that CFLs cause headaches in migraine sufferers that have been highlighted by the HPA (2008; 2009) and the Migraine Action Association (MAA, 2009). The MAA (2009) has suggested that migraines could be adversely affected by a bulb if there was a detectable flicker rate and that headaches are sometimes linked with specific elements of the light spectrum, with some people being particularly sensitive to blue light which is present in many energy saving lamps. Studies have been conducted to determine how electrically sensitive people respond to different types of lighting (Havas, 2008). The researchers according to Havas (2008) asked participants to identify their symptoms when they were exposed to various types of lighting. The research findings were that the highest percentage of headaches was reported for exposure to both tube and compact fluorescent light bulbs.

However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (2008) argue that the vast majority of CFL users, both in households and in commercial buildings, report no issues regarding CFL usage, including headaches. It further contends that though there are some anecdotal reports there is yet no research to directly explain any plausible causative mechanism.  This stance is supported by the Migraine Association of Ireland (MAI, 2010) which has stated that it is not aware of any scientific evidence that CFLs cause migraines in non-sufferers and has requested that the link between migraines and CFLs be explored thoroughly.

Although flickering bulbs have been reported to precipitate epileptic seizures there is no published scientific studies demonstrating that compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) trigger seizures (Balbus, 2008). Furthermore, manufacturers say that the new models have been improved such that the average flicker rate is more than 20,000 times per second, which is well above that detectable by the human brain.

Brightness and eyesight problems

Research has been carried out to compare the brightness of equivalent traditional light bulbs and CFLs (Gray and McWatt, 2009). Table 4.2.1 shows equivalent wattages between traditional light bulbs and CFLs as provided by the Energy Saving Trust (2009).

Traditional bulbs

CFL equivalent

 

25W

 

5-7W

               40W

8-9W

 

60W

 

11-14W

100W

 

20-23W

Table 4.2.1: Traditional bulbs and Compact Fluorescent Equivalent Wattages
 

The study according to Gray and McWatt (2009) measured and compared the illumination provided by a range of clear and frosted 60W incandescent bulbs, as well as 11W CFLs said on their labels to be equivalent. The results were that some makes of CFLs produced up to 40% less light than their equivalent incandescent bulbs. The research findings prove that CFLs are dim and do not produce as much light as the manufacturers indicate on their packaging. The research team concluded that claims made on the packaging about the light output of compact fluorescent lamps are exaggerated (see table 4.2.2).

 

Manufacturer

Incandescent (60W)

(lumens)

CFL (11W)

(Lumens)

Incandescent  (60W)

(lux)

CFL (11W)

(lux)

Philips

700

610

114

77

General Electric

700

610

126

79

Tesco

700

640

122

70

Table 4.2.2: How the energy saving bulbs equivalent to 60W compared to 60W incandescent bulbs (Gray and McWatt, 2009).

Concerns have also been expressed by people with poor eyesight. Studies by optometrists in New Zealand indicate that CFLs could be too dim for visually impaired people (NZAO, 2008). The NZAO (2008) report further states that patients, especially the elderly, struggle to read after installing CFLs and that as the bulbs need to warm up before reaching full brightness they increase the risk of tripping and falling for people with poor sight.

Another research conducted by a German consumer group found CFLs lose much of their brightness over their lifetime and can end up emitting just 60 per cent as much light as their nearest equivalent traditional bulb (Dex, 2009). The concerns about the brightness of CFLs has resulted in many UK retailers having reported a huge increase in the number of consumers that were stockpiling standard 100 watt light bulbs just ahead of the new law that will ban manufacturing traditional light bulbs (Becks, 2009) so that they can carry on lighting their houses how they see fit. Studies carried out in Australia (Winton, 2005) also suggest that only around one-third of people believe that CFLs last as long as indicated on the packaging as many people experienced at least one CFL lasting a shorter time than expected.

Environmental risks

The biggest environmental risk posed by CFLs is the mercury in them (Defra, 2008). The disposal of the bulbs once they have come to the end of their life span is a major issue as the mercury in CFLs which are dumped in landfills can leach out into the ground and into water supplies (Kondro, 2007). Once in the water supply, it can enter the bodies of fish which will then end up being ingested by humans or other animals that may eat the fish (Krabbenhoft  and Rickert, 2009) and can also result in ecological damage. Studies in USA (Skumatz & Howlett, 2005) and Ireland (Scott, 1998) indicate that most users put their bulbs in their household rubbish bins, which end up in landfills, due to lack of information on disposal and/or recycling of CFLs. It could therefore be debated that the biggest problem posed by the mercury in CFLs lies in their disposal once they have come to the end of their life span. Mercury is a unique environmental pollutant due to its apparent indestructibility (Mitra 1986) and like many environmental contaminants it undergoes bioaccumulation which can cause ecological damage.

On the contrary, Defra (2008) has argued that over the life time, CFLs produce less mercury than traditional bulbs due to the fact that mercury is emitted from power stations during electricity generation and CFLs are more energy efficient – therefore saving on the amount of electricity that needs to be generated. This is supported by research findings at Yale University (Aron, 2008) which found that for places relying on coal power for electricity generation, the switch to CFLs can cut mercury emissions significantly. In the U.S.A, annual emissions of mercury from coal power plants amount to 100 000kg (Aron, 2008) so using CFLs not only reduces the electricity used but also the mercury emitted into the environment.

 Information dissemination

Due to health and environmental risks, CFLs were subjected to the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive (Environmental Agency, 2009). The Environmental Agency (2009) states that the legislation aims to make producers pay for the collection, treatment and recovery of waste electrical equipment; and suppliers must allow consumers to return their waste equipment free of charge. The HPA (2008) has also indicated that if a customer bought a new light bulb from a retailer, the retailer should accept their old light bulb and prevent it going into a landfill site by disposing of it safely. Under the WEEE Regulations, all new electrical goods should now be marked with the crossed-out wheeled bin symbol to show that they should be disposed of separately from normal household waste (HPA, 2008).

In this study packaging of CFLs from Philips, General Electric and Tesco were examined to note if they comply with the WEEE directive and/or if they supply enough information to customers. Some of the major distributors of CFLs, including TESCO, ASDA, Morrison’s, Homebase and B&Q were surveyed by visiting the shops in the Medway towns and around London and talking to their Customer Services Departments in order to note if they also comply with the WEEE directive. Their websites were also surveyed to note any information on the recycling programs they have.

Information supplied by manufacturers

Philips: The packaging of a CFL from Philips has completely no written information on disposal or any risks associated with the bulb. The only information on the packaging is that they last for 10 years, the wattage, a recycling symbol and an A rating. There is no crossed-out wheeled bin symbol which is clearly in contravention of the WEEE directive. There is no leaflet enclosed with the bulb.
TESCO: The packaging of a CFL from TESCO has handling and fitting safety instructions as well as WEEE directive instruction which states that it should not be disposed of in household waste. It also gives advice on recycling- that one should see in store or visit the website recycle-more.co.uk. It also has the A rating and the crossed-out wheeled bin symbol. This clearly is in line with the WEEE directive. However, it does not give any advice on what to do in case of breakage or other health risks.
General Electric: The packaging of a CFL from General Electric has completely no written information on disposal, recycling or any risks associated with the bulb. The only information on the packaging is that they last for 6 years, the wattage and an A rating. There is no crossed-out wheeled bin or recycling symbol which is clearly in contravention of the WEEE directive. There is no leaflet enclosed with the bulb either.

 

Information supplied by distributors

The survey involved visiting the shops of major distributors of CFLs, talking to their Customer Services departments and checking whether there were any notices near or on the shelves where the CFLs were stocked as this would, arguably, be the most convenient position for customers to see them.

 

The following question was asked to the Customer Services Departments in the shops of TESCO, ASDA, Morrisons, Homebase and B&Q which are the major distributors of CFLs in the Medway towns:

‘Do you by any chance have recycling or collection facilities for energy-saving bulbs in your shop?’

The following were the responses:

TESCO: ‘Sorry we do not collect or recycle any kind of bulbs. We only recycle ink cartridges and batteries’.

No notices were displayed in store about either recycling or disposal of CFLs. No information on the recycling of CFLs was found on their website.

 

ASDA: ‘We do not at the moment sorry, unless batteries.’

No notices were also displayed in store about either recycling or disposal of CFLs. No information on the recycling of CFLs was found on their website.

 

Morrisons: ‘We are only able to collect batteries for recycling and not bulbs; maybe in future; sorry about that.’

No notices were also displayed in store about either recycling or disposal of CFLs. No information on the recycling of CFLs was found on their website.

 

Homebase: ‘We do not have facilities to collect, store or recycle spent energy-saving bulbs at the moment.’ No information on the recycling of CFLs was found on their website.

 

No notices were also displayed in store about either recycling or disposal of CFLs. 

B&Q: ‘We only collect bulbs that have been bought from us in their original packaging if they do not work when you get home. Otherwise, we do not collect spent ones for recycling; you could take spent ones to a tip run by the council and put it in the electrical good.’

There was a notice in store advising customers about the voluntary phasing out of traditional bulbs; but no notice about disposal or recycling of CFLs. No information on the recycling of CFLs was found on their website.

Discussion of survey results

The fact that only 1 of the 3 manufacturers displayed significant information on the packaging of their CFLs is surprising as the Environmental Agency has put obligations under the WEEE Regulations to businesses who manufacture electrical or electronic equipment. The WEEE directive applies to all types of discharge lamps such as fluorescent tubes and compact fluorescent energy savers (Environmental Agency, 2009). This is evidence that the WEEE directive is not complied with by many manufacturers.

It was even more surprising that none of the major retailers are in compliance with the WEEE directive on CFLs. They all have no facilities for collection or recycling of CFLs and they also do not provide information to customers on the correct disposal of them. Defra (2009) indicates that waste CFLs have been subject to the requirements of the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Regulations since 1st July 2007 obliging those who sell items, such as energy efficient bulbs, to provide information to the public about where they can take waste bulbs and other WEEE. But nearly three years later this does not appear to be the case. These findings are in line with research findings in USA (Engelhaupt, 2008) and Ireland (Scott,1998) which indicated that lack of information was the main reason why consumers toss burnt-out CFLs into their household rubbish bins and why they do not recycle them. The problem is compounded because many people still do not know that the bulbs contain mercury (Poole, 2008). Arguably, although CFLs only contain a small amount of mercury they still pose a serious environmental problem if they are not recycled.

 

Conclusion

It has been highlighted in this study that climate change is the biggest threat facing mankind today and everyone needs to work together by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It has been concluded from many studies that energy-saving bulbs are about 80% more efficient than the traditional light bulbs and hence use less electricity; they last longer and over their life span would save users money (HPA, 2008). Researchers on CFLs have all been left without a doubt that CFLs have the potential to significantly reduce worldwide carbon emissions if they continue to be put into wide use (Nelson, 2009). Nelson (2008) suggests that in England for example the atmosphere will be saved an estimated 5 million tons of carbon dioxide per year due to the bulbs alone.

 

This study has also revealed that whereas there are economic advantages of using CFLs, there are also some costs. As they work by using electricity to excite mercury vapour (Havas, 2008), proper disposal and care of CFLs is essential as mercury is toxic and can pollute the environment. However, as this study has highlighted, there are many failings in this regard especially during their manufacture due to poor factory conditions leading to many workers being exposed to mercury. Perhaps as technology improves research could be carried out on reducing the amount of mercury or eliminating it from the bulbs altogether.

Concerns about UV and radio frequency radiation produced by CFLs (Havas, 2008; HPA, 2008) have resulted in precautionary measures being recommended by the HPA for the use of certain types of CFLs. Sufferers of migraines and epilepsy have also stated that their conditions are worsened when CFLs are used although there is not sufficient research to suggest why this is so.

Whereas manufacturers and retailers of CFLs are obliged under the WEEE directive, this study has revealed that most are not in compliance as only 1 of the 3 manufacturers and none of the 5 major retailers surveyed had disposal or recycling programs for CFLs neither did they provide adequate information to customers. It could be suggested that lack of consumer awareness of potential health and environmental risks posed by CFLs is a limiting factor as information and education need to be central to any program. Since everyone in the UK will soon be using energy-saving bulbs, as traditional light bulbs are phased out, this is an area that needs attention.

It could be recommended that the UK Government and other governments could make it compulsory for manufacturers and retailers of CFLs to provide adequate information on the health and environmental risks CFLs pose. This information could be made available on the packaging of all CFLs as well as in the shops where they are sold. Local Authorities could also be involved in providing recycling and disposal facilities so that CFLs do not end up in landfills. There are challenging possibilities for many different researches on public awareness of the benefits and hazardous impact of CFLs.               

References

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Available from: http://justatheory.co.uk/2008/10/03/are-energy-saving-light-bulbs-actually-bad-for-the-environment (17/02/10).

Balbus, J., (2008). Dangerous CFLs? Don’t Believe Everything You Read. Available from: http://blogs.edf.org/climate411/2008/02/06/cfls_parade (12/02/10).

Becks, J., (2009). UK Retailers Report Consumers Stockpiling Light . Available from: http://www.electric.co.uk/news/uk-retailers-report-consumers-stockpiling-light-bulbs-12341130.html (16/02/10).

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 Skumatz L. A., and Howlett, O., (2005). Findings and “Gaps” in CFL Evaluation Research: Review of the Existing Literature. Available from:

http://mail.mtprog.com/CD_Layout/Day_2_22.06.06/1115-1300/ID109_Skumatz3_final.pdf (05/02/10).

Winton, L., (2005). Final Report on a Consumer Research Study about Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs). Chatswood; Artcraft Research report

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Health Benefits of Drinking Green Tea

April 25th, 2011

Did you know that, in some countries, doctors prescribe green tea for common ailments such as the cold and flu? Green tea has been a part of Asian culture that dates back at least 5000 years. In Chinese, Japanese and other eastern culture, it is a part of everyday life. In Korea, green tea is used in a spiritual ceremony to quiet the spirit and to encourage harmony and relaxation. It is also commonly prescribed medicinally as a remedy to boost the immune system. Although partaking in green tea rituals has been an enduring practice in the East, it is presently enjoying a surge of popularity in the West, in part because of its many health applications.

Among health aficionados, the health benefits of green tea are of great interest. Not only are there many advantages to drinking green tea, but studies reveal that there does not appear to be any harmful side effects. Even in populations that drink large amounts of green tea, the only side effects are limited to people who may not tolerate caffeine well.

The Japanese drink green tea almost exclusively and health experts are now attributing their lack of coronary disease and longevity, at least in part, to the green tea habit. The polyphenols and other ingredients in green tea have a mild anti-clotting affect on blood platelets which results in a reduction of plaque accumulation on artery walls. It is also known to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol which are significant factors in heart disease.

Additionally, in parts of the world where people drink at least four cups a day, scientists have found a much lower incidence of many types of serious cancers such as pancreatic, breast, lung and skin cancer. Catechins, the polyphenolic antioxidant ingredients which have a slightly bitter taste, not only purportedly inhibit growth of cancer cells, but they can also kill the harmful bacteria that invade the human body as well as the toxins that those bacteria produce.

Catechins are also beneficial for oral health. These flavanols effectively kill the bacteria that accumulate in the mouth, reducing bad breath odor as well as plaque that builds up on teeth. Green tea also contains natural fluorine which helps prevent the incidence of cavities.

Although coffee is the breakfast beverage of choice in America, other parts of the world prefer tea hands down. Decades of research on green tea have publicized the many health benefits of drinking it, including its ability to boost immunity, reduce heart disease, and promote oral health. Current research is ongoing and is hold promising evidence about green tea’s ability to treat serious conditions such as cancer. With its many health promoting antioxidant compounds, green tea is a healthy, delicious addition to any healthy diet.

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Benefits Of Alternative Health Medicine

March 3rd, 2011

Complimentary or alternative medicine is a system of medicine that seeks to cure ailments, diseases or debilitating conditions in a manner which is not recognized by traditional western medical institutions. It is a catch-all term for a plethora of separate and distinct entities and ideologies. Some examples of which are acupuncture, chiropractic treatments, homeopathy, herbalism and many more. Each year more and more people try out these remedies for a variety of reasons.

 

Price

 

Almost without exception, consulting with an alternative health provider is cheaper than an appointment with a conventional specialist in a big hospital. In today’s uncertain economic future, people are looking to save as much money as possible. Getting the equivalent health care you need at a lower price is a boon for everyone who struggles to make ends meet. In addition, some types of alternative medicine are even covered by normal health insurance.

 

Availability of Remedies

 

A lot of the instructions and prescriptions alternative health professionals issue to their patients are based around herbs, nuts, leaves and other naturally occurring ingredients. They are often something you can grow in your own garden, or is readily available for purchase in any grocery’s dietary supplement aisle. They are also often cheaper than standard pharmaceuticals.

 

Convenience

 

Convenience is also another key factor in complimentary medicine’s rise in popularity. There are multiple options available in the market that is aimed for your specific needs. A simple walk through the mall will inundate you with ads for therapeutic massages, acupuncture and chiropractic clinics.

 

Environmentally Friendly

 

In recent times, there has been a rise in the consumers’ desire to go green. Alternative health medicine is by and large an entirely natural endeavor. The manufacturing of the various herbal remedies are pose no threat to the environment. They cause no pollution, and are derived from non-synthetic ingredients.

 

Philosophy Driven

 

Another thing that appeals to people about alternative health medicine is its underlying philosophy. Unlike the sparse and scientific approach of conventional medicine, complimentary health providers give you a framework to guide your entire life around.

 

A New Hope

 

Finally, it’s a sad fact of life that there are certain conditions that modern medical science has yet to defeat. For people who are suffering from these diseases, alternative health medicine gives them hope for another option. It gives them a chance to do something to improve themselves, rather than just giving up.

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TRANSCRIPT: The Benefits of Public Private Partnerships in the Caribbean

February 18th, 2011

The Haitian government has the most realistic opportunity to safety and prosperity to the people of Haiti in decades, if not longer. Unfortunately, in the wake of the devastating earthquake, the government remains in need of substantial, proven assistance to build capacity and improve social, education, health, legal, and financial institutions.

As often seen in large scale disaster environments, there is a sizable gap between pledge announcements and the disbursement of funds. Currently, direct NGO funds are responsible for much of the health reconstruction efforts. Although NGO assistance has been critical in the disaster aftermath, this assistance has also historically led to an imbalance in the economy and shift more local resources and attention to aid organizations.

This continued imbalance will certainly hamper the “Build Back Better” vision and could result in more inefficiency.

Post Disaster public health reconstruction (especially with the expectation of a large influx of $ $ $ ) can greatly benefit from the input, feedback, and partnership of experienced hospital management, construction, and consulting communities.

The Haitian government should recognize the ability of the private sector to finance, design, build, and operate holistic reconstruction health projects for long term growth and sustainability.

When discussing the Public Private Partnership model for development I am often reminded of a story from my mother’s childhood.

My mother grew up in Port of Spain, Trinidad and attended St. Joseph’s Convent for her primary and secondary education. Her older brother would often pick her up after school. Following a particularly long day at school and with a heavy school bag slung over his shoulder, he left his school, Saint Mary’s College, to go pick up his younger sister.

He had a few minutes before her school let out and a bit of money in his pocket so along the way he stopped and bought a small bag of tamarind balls (bite sized sweets) from a little shop.

After buying the sweets he reached the school, took out his book and sat on a bench next to an elderly man.

A few minutes pasted and my uncle, fully absorbed in his book, took a tamarind ball from the bag and nibbled at it while he read.

To his surprise, the elderly gentleman next to him calmly took one of the tamarind balls from the bag and ate it. Stunned by the blatant theft, my uncle couldn’t bring himself to say anything, or even to look at the man. He simply kept reading.

After a few minutes he slowly picked up and ate another tamarind ball. Incredibly, the old man, too, took a tamarind ball and ate it, then to my uncle’s amazement; the old man lifted the bag and offered my uncle the last tamarind ball.

This being too much to tolerate, my uncle quickly grabbed his school bag, gave the old man an angry look and marched off to sit under a tree. Still flustered and enraged, he reached to put his book back inside his school bag only to find his bag of tamarind balls.

Opponents of public-private partnerships are often quick to mislabel PPP projects as the theft or pillaging of the public sector where “sneaky” corporate entities are more interested in profit maximization rather than the provision of healthcare.

In reality, PPPs require the continual participation of both stakeholders – the public and private. In contrast to privatization, properly structured hospital PPPs exist in clearly defined domains that represents neither the privatization nor the nationalization of assets and services.

Reconstructing the Haitian public health infrastructure through Public Private Partnerships can help develop, sustain, and expand the social and economic growth of the nation. This is of critical importance as the Interim Haitian Recovery Commission (IHRC) and the Haitian Reconstruction Fund struggle with financial realities of rebuilding the nation.

Since the early 1990s, many EU countries have used various forms of public-private partnership to deliver major construction and healthcare projects that were designed to deliver better quality public services, by bringing in new investment and improved management. In turn, this has helped state-owned businesses achieve their full potential.

By establishing mechanisms to include health PPPs, the Haitian government can access private finance to build health infrastructure while also enabling the government to transfer risks associated with clinical services to an experienced private sector partner.

Additionally, rather than paying for an asset or service up front, a PPP program will allow Haiti to pay for infrastructure and services over time based on predetermined performance standards determined by Haitian Health Regulatory Authorities.

By entering into a PPP agreement, the Haitian government incurs little or no costs during the construction of the medical facilities and if the private sector partner doesn’t deliver the facilities (on schedule) or fails to perform (as agreed), the government doesn’t pay, pays less, or applies financial penalties.

For a successful Hospital PPP to be implemented in Haiti, certain conditions have to be met:

1. The Haitian Government Authority and the private sector partner need to work together on the basis of clear, contractual agreements;
2. distinct regulations need to be laid down in those agreements concerning the responsibilities of the parties regarding costs and risks;
3. timely social and commercial goals have to be met at all times;
4. every party should keep its own identity and responsibilities.

Health infrastructure require massive amounts of investment, expertise and organizational knowledge – these are some of the resources or ‘capital’ that the private sector can bring to a public private partnership.

In addition to elevating the Haitian public health system, the government will experience substantial benefits from the transfers of technology, employment benefits, capacity building, and citizen betterment.

There are, however, operational, political, social, economic and financial risks for the Haitian government and its private sector partner.

Because PPP’s involve significant levels of capital investment with payback periods covering many years or decades, private companies often seek high levels of financing from international financial institutions, national development banks, and commercial banks, backed in many cases by government guarantees.

To achieve PPP project success, the Haitian government will need to ensure:
1. a political, legal and administrative framework that permits and facilitates private sector development and public private partnerships
2. the availability of necessary economic, financial, technical, institutional and negotiation expertise
3. and mechanisms for interagency cooperation and dispute resolution

Given Haiti’s tumultuous past and since many PPP projects span 20-30 years, a major concern for the private partner is how to ensure that there is real and perceived continuity and consistency in: the Haitian public health vision and in the laws and regulations over the long term despite changes that may occur in political regime.

There will be changes that happen during the span of a hospital PPP project. Some of these are not related or only indirectly related to the PPP. However citizen attitudes towards the public health system and the PPP projects can have a substantial influence on the success or failure of a PPP project.

This is where we see the great importance of a PPP social responsibility plan.

Today, it only seems logical that Public Private Partnerships, especially in the Caribbean and Central America, have at their core citizen acceptance and participation.

Particularly in divided societies and I don’t mean unstable societies. I mean countries that may have 2 or more strong established parties jockeying back and forth for power.

In such situations exploitative questions may arise over the use of natural resources by private and especially foreign companies.

Other questions could center on the extent to which some services should be freely available or provided at socialized prices.

In these situations or in cases involving perceptions of corruption, negative impacts to local people, or environmental problems,

it is not unusual to find local citizenry groups rising in protest against the PPP.

Of course local level strategies to improve credibility and the business environment exist in nearly all Caribbean and Central American countries and some governments have even created associations and institutions to discuss, evaluate and in some cases promote a more active participation of private sector companies.

This goes a long way in providing an environment suitable for PPPs.

So, for governments in this region to attract private partners there needs to be a clear agreement in the society about the private sector presence and role even before PPP’s are considered as an option.

Lets be honest, in some Caribbean and Central American countries the private sector is held in suspicion because of ideology, misinformation or bad experience.

For the last year we have been working with local private partners and the municipal government in a region of Venezuela to develop a project with regards to the coffee industry.

Problems within the government and attitudes pervasive in the local community have wreaked havoc on our plans and brought progress to a standstill.

But I’m not really focusing on this type of situation, but rather PPPs that are developed and negotiated ‘in the dark.’

These types of projects, especially in the region will face difficulties when public knowledge about contract provisions or unofficial deals emerge.

A survey in 2006 on the entire Latin America region showed that public perceptions on whether the contribution of privatization was positive dipped downward from 45% in 1998 to 31% in 2005.

PPPs developed in the dark eventual come to light and we know our people – this simply doesn’t fly.

It is my opinion that an integrated formalized exchange of information and experiences with community leaders is a key part of the process.

Likewise an active dissemination of information by national associations of municipalities, some international organizations, knowledge centers, governments and other agencies provides a basis for general understanding of and appreciation for PPP’s.

Independent, as well as government, monitoring and accountability measures that provide feedback to the citizenry can serve to keep the processes transparent and credible, and the PPP approach socially (and environmentally) acceptable over the long term.

Both local governments and the private partner can develop supportive partnerships with independent or professional agencies and academiacs to serve as consultants and trainers during learning cycle stages or to advice them on more complicated processes and activities.

Now, depending on the type of PPP project, the initiation could come from the government side or from a proposal presented to the government by a group often backed by a potential partner.

Regardless, once presented if the national government or municipality is interested it needs to, early on, designate a responsible team of officials and possible external advisors to initiate and manage the project processes.

Having experienced advisors can help save a significant amount of resources and help achieve the desired objectives of PPP projects.

Once the plan is laid out, the process to qualify potential partners has to be clear and relatively simple.

While a potential partner’s direct or indirect involvement may have existed during the pre-PPP opportunity announcement, experience and expertise of all interested private companies or consortia should be considered.

Additionally, governments should consider the record of the companies in handling social issues or environmental effects of their past projects.

Again, it is important that there is transparency in this process to ensure that, in society, there is general perception of fairness.

A well recognized, fair and transparent system of announcing and qualifying bids, their ranking and selection, processes of negotiation (if any), and system of awards has to be fully endorsed and supported by different agencies when possible.

This, too, is a critical issue in PPP acceptance and sustainability because it helps create a public perception that this process is done fairly and with public interest considered.

Now the last issue I’d like to touch on is the role of the private partner and its social and environmental responsibilities.

As we have seen throughout the Caribbean and Central America with regards to private industry, even certain “fair trade” eco-tourism type projects, the human and environmental exploitation can occur despite otherwise stated intentions.

National and municipal officials need to ensure there is full understanding of the various social and environmental impacts of projects, and that selection of partners, approaches and processes is made with all these factors considered.

But really the onus is on the private partner and its outlook on corporate social responsibility.

The theme of Corporate Social Responsibility continues to grow in importance in debates throughout the Americas.

Together with sustainable development and business ethics, it is also high on the public policy agenda. Although it is a less tangible issue than the conceptual idea of Public Private Partnerships, this issue has considerable importance for PPPs.

Now, when a private company incorporates voluntary social and environmental business practices into its core activities, which go beyond its existing legal obligations it, in essence is implementing a corporate social responsibility program.

But for many companies, adjusting existing corporate policies across the board can be rather difficult.

I believe PPPs especially in the Caribbean and Central America, offer private companies the opportunity to “selectively” apply social responsibility techniques from the ground up on a particular project – the PPP.

Of course the PPP would ensure a corporate responsibility plan for all private stakeholders inclusive of local subs and partners.

A PPP that adheres to the principles of CSR should be able to promote the well being of employees, contractors, the citizenry and the environment.

Issues often at the center of debates in the region.

Such a project is also advantageous to the government partner since sustainable buildings, low operating and maintenance costs and increasingly, multi-purpose premises, help to generate more national wealth.

The PPP plan should also address the occupational safety and job satisfaction of staff and provide them with opportunities for continuous improvement in skills.

Leading such a plan the private partner will see an investment return, since more skills and more satisfaction should imply more productive employees.

The regional importance of the environment is another key reason for a private partner to push for a socially responsible PPP thereby decreasing the environmental loads resulting from most PPP projects.

Additionally, intense efforts should be taken to reduce energy consumption, emissions and the amount of waste activities.

With the negative image of foreign private companies in many places in the Caribbean and Central America, all stakeholders (private and public) should be increasingly sensitive to a PPPs overall public image and reputation and recognize that social responsibility activities can be a positive component.

Also, it should be mentioned that investors (all else being equal) seem to be more likely to put their money into businesses which are able to demonstrate socially responsible behavior.

So briefly, in conclusion, Public Private Partnerships have incredible potential in extending the provision of public services in the Caribbean and Central America. There are various issues that need addressing and a key component is the inclusion and the attention directed towards the community in all stages of the project.

Thank you.

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Home Health Care Benefits – Find the Right Home Health Care Agency

January 31st, 2011

Recovering from an illness or injury can be a stressful time for both the patient and the patient’s family. That stress is compounded when chronic illness or disability is involved. Research has consistently shown that, when at all possible, recovering at home is the best option for the patient’s physical and mental health. Unfortunately, when the patient is elderly or too injured or ill to care for themselves, recovering at home is sometimes not an option.

Finding friends or family members to assist with daily tasks is not always feasible. Even when family members are in a position to assist, the burden placed on them often puts a strain on their other family relationships, as well as their career and personal life.
Right Home Health Care Agency

Finding the right agency can be a daunting task, but not impossible, says Tilly Gambill, Manager of Marketing and Communications for the American Association for Homecare.

“People often receive home health services following a hospitalization or care in other care settings. Often the hospital discharge planner or social worker provides information on home health agencies,” Gambill says. “Ask the hospital for a list of home health care agencies in your community. In some communities, there may fewer available agencies. Physicians, friends, and family can recommend home health agencies, as well.”

The family got 2 references from the hospital and one from a family friend whose father with hypertension and diabetes receives home care services weekly.

To help them select the right provider, the National Association for Home Care suggests asking the following questions:
Questions to Ask a Home Care Provider

•    What are the qualifications and experience?
•    How long has the agency been in business?
•    Is the agency evaluated and accredited by a governing agency such as The Joint Commission’s Home Care Accreditation Program?
•    Is the agency licensed by the state?
•    Can the agency provide references? Ask for a list of doctors, hospital discharge planners and former clients who have experience with the agency.
•    How does the agency protect client confidentiality?
•    Is the agency inspected by any outside organization? May I see the results of the last inspection?
•    Does the agency perform a customer satisfaction survey? May I see the results of the last survey?

Questions About Caregivers

•    What are the credentials of the caregivers who work for the agency?
•    How does the agency select and train caregivers?
•    Do caregivers work directly for the agency? How are they supervised?
•    Are caregivers subject to criminal background checks?
•    Will the same caregiver be sent to my home for each visit?
•    Are nurses or therapists required to evaluate the patient’s home care needs?
•    If so, what does this entail?
•    Do they consult the patient’s physicians and family members?
•    Is the patient’s course of treatment documented, detailing the specific tasks to be carried out by each caregiver?
•    Will the agency schedule care at any time of the day or night that my physician says is necessary?
•    Can the agency provide me with written information about the rights and responsibilities of the providers, patients and caregivers?
•    Whom should I call with questions or complaints? How will the agency respond?

Questions About Services Provided

•    Can the agency provide me with written information about the services available?
•    Is there a written plan of care for each patient?
•    Does the agency involve the patient and caregivers in designing this plan and educate them about the care provided?
•    How does the agency respond to emergencies? How long does it take to respond to calls?
•    Will the agency help me find other community services such as Meals on Wheels or homemakers services, or help find medical equipment I may need?

Questions About Financials

•    Is the agency certified by Medicare?
•    Is the agency approved or accepted by my insurance plan or supplemental insurance?
•    How does the agency handle expenses and billing?
•    Does the agency provide detailed explanations of all the costs associated with home care?
•    What resources does the agency provide to help me get financial assistance, if needed?
There are several internet based referral companies available online. This type of service has you complete a form listing the type of services you are looking for such as home care

Finding the right person for the right job is never the easiest thing to do but hopefully these tips will help you.

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Religion Benefits to Health

January 2nd, 2011

There have been many claims and studies saying that religion benefit’s the health of a person. Before revealing what those benefits are, let us know first what religion is. According to Cicero, religion came from the word ‘relegare’ which means to go through again and read again. ‘Re’ means again while ‘legere’ means read. However, the modern writers and ancient writers linked the word religion to ‘religare’ which means to bind fast or unite. Taking it from the word origins, religion means binding oneself or meeting the ultimate creator, God. 

Many doctors believe that health does not just mean the physical body alone, but also involves the mind and spirit. There have been numerous studies suggesting that religious people recover better, have longer life and are less likely to be depressed. Since religion involves a belief that someone divine provides things for people, a person who belongs to a religion tends to believe he will get healed when sick and he will survive when challenged. Religion benefits the mental health in a way that it improves the mental well being of a person. Experts say that if you truly believe in your faith, then what you prayed for will most likely come true. There were also cases that a person’s belief helped him fight a disease and get well again which they call the psychological effect in a person. 

Religion benefits relationship as well. Since it involves mingling with other people, religion enhances one’s social aspect and this gives a person so many positive effects. Studies show that when a person eats with friends, he is most likely to feel full and contented. Encouragement from friends also helps a patient get well or a depressed person feel better. Physical contacts like hugs can also aid in healing a person. Physical contacts stimulate the nerves of the body sending signals to the brain; then the brain produces serotonin, the body’s natural anti-depressant and also called the ‘happy hormone.’ 

Other religion benefits for one’s health involve behaviors like good diet and refraining from alcohol and cigarette. People who are surrounded by a religious community also have positive image of oneself, sense of purpose and growth. Religion benefits the lonely people, too. When people lost a loved one or experience misery, they realize some situations are out of their hands and that they have to trust the Lord. Also, religion gives consolation and comfort to those in need making a person stronger in continuing life. 

Religion is also life changing. How many criminals have turned back on their past and embraced God? Religion also shapes artistry and creativity through prayer and music. Participating in choirs and other events enhances a person’s skills. 

Religion is not just a congregation that performs rituals or ceremonies regularly but also a relationship and community where people give and take, forgive and love, share and grow. If you belong to a religion, you may want to get yourself immersed and involved to it because of the many and sometimes unexplainable benefits of it to your health and life.

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Feds to decide what benefits health insurers must cover

December 27th, 2010

Even as House Republicans vow to repeal the health care law, government advisers are preparing this week to wade into one of the most contentious questions the legislation raises: What benefits must insurers cover?

The answer will affect tens of millions of Americans beginning in 2014: those who buy their own insurance and those who get coverage through small employers.

While the law outlines 10 broad categories of coverage — among them hospital and emergency services, prescription drugs, childbirth and pediatric care — it leaves specifics to the government.

The Obama administration faces a tough balancing act: The benefits package must be broad enough to be comprehensive but not so broad as to be unaffordable. Patient advocates and industry lobbyists are drawing up wish lists for items they want covered, including autism therapy, obesity treatments, infertility treatments and unlimited chemotherapy visits.

“This is an invitation for all kinds of lobbying from every conceivable disease group and provider group in the country,” said Joe Antos, an economist at the conservative American Enterprise Institute, a research center in Washington.

The Department of Health and Human Services has asked the independent Institute of Medicine for advice. A 17-member institute panel will begin meeting Wednesday behind closed doors, with public sessions scheduled for Thursday and Friday. Panel members include economists, consumer advocates, a state health commissioner and a former CEO of insurer WellPoint. By fall, it’ll make recommendations on factors HHS should consider in drawing up the benefit package.

The required package affects all policies to be sold in the new state-based insurance exchanges. Those marketplaces, which are to start operating in 2014, initially will be open only to those who buy individual and small-group policies. New policies sold to individuals and businesses outside the exchanges also would be affected.

Benefit coverage has long been a flash point between consumers and insurers, sometimes playing out in news stories of patients who are denied treatments they say are necessary, even lifesaving, but that insurers call unproven or not medically indicated.

“The notion that someone has health insurance only has real meaning when the insurance they have provides coverage for their true health care needs,” said Ron Pollack, the executive director of the liberal advocacy group Families USA.

The law leaves open the question of how detailed the requirements will be and how much flexibility will be left to insurers and employers. Insurers argue for flexibility, but some consumer groups want details spelled out.

HHS shouldn’t get into “the details of each category of care,” America’s Health Insurance Plans says in a letter to the Institute of medicine panel. Essential benefits are those “proven effective based on science,” and they should be updated regularly. Additionally, the trade group says HHS should consider allowing restrictions on the numbers of visits covered in certain situations to keep premiums affordable.

“The broader the benefit package, the higher the cost for families and employers,” said Robert Zirkelbach, a spokesman for America’s Health Insurance Plans.

Don’t limit the number of visits, said Stephen Finan, the senior director of policy for the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network. “If a patient requires chemotherapy every week for a year … they should not be hindered by an arbitrary rule about only getting 35 visits.”

“If it’s medically necessary, it should be covered,” said Marina Weiss, a senior vice president at the March of Dimes.

Currently, insurers establish benefit packages, sometimes in conjunction with employers who are purchasing them. Insurance plans typically cover a wide range of services, from emergency room care to hospitalization and visits to doctors’ offices, with the caveat that the treatments be deemed medically necessary.

Some treatments, such as cosmetic surgery, generally aren’t covered. Others — including bariatric surgery for obesity, infertility treatment or new, experimental types of services — fall into a gray area and may not be covered.

Advocates have succeeded in getting most states to set rules that require coverage for specific treatments and conditions. Some states, for example, include infertility, autism, Lyme disease, hearing aids or prosthetic limbs. Some states specify what kinds of specialists must be covered, from acupuncturists and dentists to massage therapists or pastoral counselors.

Under the new health law, states can keep coverage requirements that aren’t included in the essential benefit package, but they’d be responsible for paying insurers the additional costs for those benefits in policies sold through state exchanges.

Many activists fear that states will repeal requirements that are left out of the federal benefit package. “That will give states a chance or an excuse to then get rid of any kind of mandate,” said Karen Forschner, the chairwoman of the board of directors of the Lyme Disease Foundation in Tolland, Conn.

Connecticut is among the few states that set specific Lyme disease coverage, requiring insurers to provide more than 30 days of antibiotic treatment for patients who may need longer-term therapy, Forschner said.

About two dozen states have comprehensive rules requiring coverage for autism, said Stuart Spielman, senior policy adviser and counsel with the advocacy group Autism Speaks.

Without such laws, “families suffer huge gaps in coverage,” he said. “They can be denied specific services such as speech therapy.”

“People have made decisions about job choices and where to live based on state laws,” said Spielman, who wants the administration to consider state rules when developing the benefit package. “This is not a blank slate. There have been efforts in states to provide quality health care.”

Joe Nadglowski, the CEO of the Obesity Action Coalition in Tampa, Fla., said that three states required insurers to cover bariatric surgery for obese patients, while a handful of others required insurers to offer it as an option to employers who were purchasing small-group coverage. He can’t buy it in Florida for his employees.

Adding a wider range of treatments would raise the cost of premiums, Nadglowski acknowledged, but it could save money over time if people sought prevention and treatment for obesity.

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The Benefits of a Men’s Health Magazine

December 5th, 2010

It’s only right that there should be a men’s health magazine. In the past, the real need for a male oriented publication on health has been eclipsed by the many other publications focusing on female concerns. It is pretty obvious though that men also have health issues that deserve to be addressed.

Your Magazine Need

There is no question that men and women just aren’t made from the same mold. This is not a sexist view it is a fact. Although women can now perform the same tasks, jobs and responsibilities as men, they difference between male and female health concerns differ. Issues ranging from hair loss to sexual dysfunction for example are experienced differently by men and women. Men may therefore not be able to benefit from generic pieces of health advice.

In other words, some pieces of health advice for women may not be applicable for men. It should go without saying that men truly need a resource of their own that can provide the right answers to unique male concerns.

What’s in a Magazine

There are a variety of publications that offer advice on male health. The most basic publications however simply focus on such topics as fitness training and nutrition. As most of us already know though, these are not the only components of a man. Like women, men are complex beings too. Striving to achieve total health takes more than just knowing the right diet and exercise regimen.

This is why men’s health magazine publications now know better than to take a simplified approach. Instead of just shelling out tips on exercises and diet components, they also need to provide data on such topics as make disease detection, mental health, sex and lifestyle types. Other magazines offer an even broader view through topics focusing on fashion and technology.

Picking Your Magazine

You don’t want to waste your money by skipping from one subscription to another. You would want to get the ideal magazine the first time. You can do this by narrowing down your preferred focus. Although magazines for men contain many different topics, most of them have theme focuses. Some obviously focus more on nutrition or some other male health concern or issue. Find a magazine that focuses on your main interests.

Actual readers would also know best which magazines are worth your money. Read a couple of reviews first before settling on a publication.

There is no doubt that you will benefit from a men’s health magazine. It can give you the right clues to making a healthy lifestyle possible for you.

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Employees Gain Greater Benefits Under a Private Health Services Plan (PHSP)

October 27th, 2010

What is the benefit of government funded health care initiatives? Does universal health care benefit the average citizen? Is it really more value added to nationalize the health care system and offer benefits to all? Who pays for the benefits enjoyed by the masses? National health care programs do not absolve employers or companies from paying for medical and dental coverage for their employees. While taxpayers bear the burden of paying for universal health care, so do the business owners and corporations. They pay business taxes that help subsidize government funded programs. While the businesses and companies provide significant cash infusions to the government funds, they also look to provide options for health insurance that supplements and goes further to care for individuals. To attract and retain top notch, high caliber employees, many offer health care options that exceed the national standard. These programs are offered with more choices and greater flexibility, which is attractive to employees as they consider employment options. These programs also attract the best doctors and providers and allow participants to go to better medical facilities with more state of the art equipment and technologies. This creates the divide between nationally funded health care and a private health services plan (PHSP).

While government funded medical benefits provide coverage for all and do not allow anyone to be turned down for treatment, a private health services plan (PHSP) has service levels that far exceed those set under government plans. Because corporations and businesses gain greater tax breaks for offering a private option, these plans are designed to reap great benefits. Preventive medical and dental programs are offered with incentives for well visits and routine tests aimed at early detection. These programs are designed to enjoy great provider networks and are often favored by doctors because of the high rate of the claims. When governments offer tax breaks to employers to provide a private option, the plans are designed with usage rates and often excluding the kind of medical services that are extremely costly. Those costly services can be covered by the public option. The dual program approach allows employers to make the harder decisions about inclusions and exclusions when negotiating and writing their health care programs. While it may appear less than consumer friendly, these types of business decisions affect the cost of health insurance for the entire pool of insured employees. Providing private health service plan is a huge benefit and incentive for employers in countries where the government offers national health care options. Because the tax breaks seem to be enough of incentive for companies to offer additional benefit options, it allows employees to make choices about participating under the public option or paying additional premiums to enjoy a private plan.

A private health services plan (PHSP) varies from employer to employer. Depending on the size of the employer and the financial resources put aside for medical and dental programs, the private plans provide security and reassurances for plan participants. People hope to never have to leverage the resources offered by a private health service plan. Unfortunately, an accident or a critical illness could put change one’s outlook on insurance programs and how useful having private insurance is. Authorization for special tests and advanced treatments are supplemented by whatever the public insurance option allows for. Have a secondary insurance will also ensure proper treatment and potential greater cost savings due to primary and secondary insurance programs covering and paying for different medical treatments. The purpose for utilizing public and private insurance programs is to gain the greatest benefit for the best price. Having options in insurance programs is advantageous to employees who have the opportunity to participate in a group plan sponsored by his or her employer.

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