July 2021 - Healthedly Insurance Services

The U.S. Needs to Take a Comprehensive Approach to Mental Healthcare

Mental healthcare in the United States is in a state of crisis. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in five adults in the United States experiences mental illness in a given year. However, only about half of those individuals receive treatment. This is a significant problem, as untreated mental illness can lead to a host of negative outcomes. These include increased risk of physical health problems, decreased productivity and functioning, and even early death.

One of the primary reasons for the lack of access to this form of healthcare? We can blame the fragmented nature of the system. In the United States, mental health is often siloed from physical healthcare and is not integrated into a larger system of care. This leads to a lack of coordination and communication between providers, resulting in fragmented care and difficulty accessing services.

Another issue is the lack of availability of mental healthcare providers.

The United States has a shortage of mental healthcare professionals, particularly in rural and underserved areas. This shortage is exacerbated by the fact that many insurance plans have limited coverage for mental healthcare. Hence, this makes it difficult for individuals to afford treatment.

The current approach to mental health in the United States also tends to rely heavily on medication. But, there’s a more comprehensive approach that includes therapy and other evidence-based treatments. Of course, medication can be an effective treatment for some mental health conditions. Regardless, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution and should be used in combination with other therapies.

One way to address these issues is to adopt a more comprehensive approach to mental health that integrates physical and mental healthcare and addresses the whole person. This approach should include a range of treatment options, including therapy, medication, and other evidence-based treatments, such as mindfulness-based therapies and peer support.

To implement this comprehensive approach, the United States needs to invest in expanding access to mental health.

This could involve increasing funding for mental healthcare providers, particularly in underserved areas, and expanding insurance coverage for mental healthcare services. It could also involve training more mental healthcare professionals, such as therapists and psychologists, to meet the growing demand for these services.

In addition to expanding access to care, the United States also needs to prioritize prevention and early intervention.

This could involve implementing universal mental health screenings. It could also involve provide education and resources to help individuals identify and address mental health issues early on. Implementing evidence-based programs in schools and communities can promote mental health and prevent mental illness.

Finally, it is important to address the social determinants of mental health, such as poverty, discrimination, and trauma. These factors can significantly impact an individual’s mental health. They must be addressed in order to effectively improve mental health in the United States.

Overall, the United States needs to take a comprehensive approach to mental healthcare. This approach needs to address the whole person and includes a range of treatment options. By expanding access to care, prioritizing prevention and early intervention, and addressing social determinants of mental health, we can begin to address the crisis in mental health and improve the lives of those living with mental illness.

July 30, 2021

The New Trend of Using Healthcare Chatbots

General

In recent years, there has been a boom in the use of healthcare chatbots . These virtual assistants are powered by artificial intelligence that can interact with users through messaging platforms or mobile apps. These chatbots have the potential to revolutionize the way we access healthcare, making it more convenient, affordable, and efficient.

One of the main benefits of healthcare chatbots is that they are available 24/7.

This means that patients can get medical advice or assistance at any time of day or night, without having to wait for a doctor’s appointment or visit an emergency room. This is particularly useful for people living in rural or underserved areas. In these areas, access to healthcare can be limited. It can also be a lifesaver for those who need urgent medical attention but are unable to leave their home due to disability or illness.

Another advantage of healthcare chatbots is their ability to triage patients.

By asking questions and gathering information about a patient’s symptoms, a chatbot can determine the severity of the problem and provide appropriate advice or referral. This can help to reduce the burden on emergency departments. These departments are often overcrowded and stretched to their limits. It can also help to ensure that patients with more serious conditions are seen by a doctor sooner. No more waiting for a routine appointment.

In addition to providing medical advice, healthcare chatbots can also help with medication management.

They can remind patients to take their medication, provide information about dosage and side effects, and even alert patients to potential interactions with other drugs they are taking. This can help to improve adherence to treatment plans and prevent medication errors, which can be a serious problem in the healthcare industry.

True, healthcare chatbots have the potential to be very helpful. Regardless, it’s important to recognize that they are not a replacement for human doctors. They are not able to diagnose or treat medical conditions. Hence, they should not be used as a sole source of medical information. Instead, they should be seen as a tool to supplement and support traditional healthcare systems.

Despite their limitations, the use of healthcare chatbots is growing rapidly. According to a report by Accenture, the market for these chatbots is expected to reach $9.4 billion by 2021. The number of users expected to reach 1.25 billion. This growth is being driven by a number of factors. This includes the increasing adoption of messaging apps, the rising cost of healthcare. It also includes the growing demand for convenient and accessible healthcare services.

So what does the future hold for healthcare chatbots?

It’s hard to say for sure. But, it seems likely that they will continue to become more sophisticated and capable over time. As more and more people use these chatbots, the data they generate will be used to improve the algorithms. Consequently, this will make them more accurate and effective. It’s also possible that we will see the development of specialized chatbots for different medical fields, such as mental health or primary care.

One thing that seems certain is that the boom in healthcare chatbots is here to stay. While they are not a panacea for all of the problems facing the healthcare system, they do have the potential to make a real difference in the lives of patients. Are you looking for medical advice, a reminder to take your medication, or just someone to talk to? A healthcare chatbot could be a valuable resource.

We here at Healthedly are here to help you get the right healthcare coverage.

July 29, 2021

Proposed change to the “Birthday Rule”

ACA, Individual and Family, Medicare

The “birthday rule” is a provision that exists in many retirement plans, including 401(k) plans. This dictates that an individual must reach a certain age before they can begin to withdraw money from their account without incurring a penalty. The current age that the birthday rule specifies is 59 1/2 years old. However, there has been a proposal to change this rule in order to make it easier for individuals to access their retirement funds earlier in life.

One of the proposed changes to the birthday rule?

Lower the age at which individuals can begin to withdraw money from their retirement accounts without incurring a penalty.

This change is being considered because many people are finding it difficult to save enough money for retirement. This alteration allows them to access their funds earlier in life. Hence, this could provide them with the financial support they need to meet their expenses.

Another proposed change to the birthday rule? Allow individuals to use their retirement funds to pay for certain expenses.

For example, they can use the fund for the cost of education or the purchase of a first home, without incurring a penalty.

This change is being considered because these expenses can be significant and may not be covered by other sources of funding. Allowing individuals to use their retirement funds to pay for these expenses could help them to achieve important financial goals. It could also improve their financial security.

There are also proposals to allow individuals to withdraw money from their retirement accounts on an ongoing basis. They wouldn’t have to wait to do so at one specific age. This change is being considered for what reason? It would give individuals more flexibility in terms of when they can access their funds. It could make it easier for them to manage their retirement savings. Overall, the proposed changes to the birthday rule are intended to make it easier for individuals to access their retirement funds. And they can do so earlier in life. They can use them for a wider range of expenses.

These changes could help to improve financial security and provide individuals with more control over their financial futures. However, it is important to carefully consider the potential consequences of these changes before making a decision. They may have an impact on an individual’s overall financial strategy and retirement planning.

Get your free quote at Healthedly or call 855-522-2201

July 28, 2021

Making healthcare accessible to local farmers

General, Health, Individual and Family

Healthcare needs to be more readily available to farmers. Why? Well, here’s quite a few compelling reasons that support this belief:

Farmworkers face unique health risks:

Unfortunately, farmers face exposure to a range of health risks due to the nature of their work, including exposure to pesticides, heavy lifting, and working long hours in harsh weather conditions.

Access to healthcare remains limited in rural areas:

Many farmworkers live in rural areas where access to healthcare stays fairly limited. Subsequently, this makes it difficult for them to get the medical care they need when they need it.

Farmworkers contribute to the economy:

Farmworkers play a vital role in the economy by producing the food that we eat. Ensuring that they have access to healthcare can help them to stay healthy and productive.

The healthcare needs of farmers remain overlooked:

The healthcare industry often overlooks the needs of farmworkers, as they are a small and dispersed population. Giving healthcare access to farmworkers may ensure that their needs get addressed and that they receive the care they need.

Providing healthcare to farmers can have positive spillover effects:

Providing healthcare to farmers can have positive spillover effects on their families and communities, as healthy farmworkers are better able to contribute to the well-being of their families and communities.

Are you looking for more affordable health insurance? If yes, then start today with Healthedly, chat with an agent, we will send you a free quote for a healthcare plan that works for you!

July 23, 2021

What Healthcare Might Look Like if Offered from a Discount Retailer

General, Individual and Family, News

If healthcare was offered by a discount retailer, it is likely that the focus would be on providing basic care at a low cost. This could involve offering a limited range of services, such as vaccinations, basic screenings, and generic medications. The care provided may be delivered by non-specialist healthcare providers, such as nurse practitioners or physician assistants, rather than doctors.

One potential advantage of this model? It could make healthcare more accessible and affordable for individuals who do not have insurance or who have high deductibles. However, the quality of care may be lower than at traditional healthcare facilities. The providers may not have the same level of training and expertise. More complex or specialized medical conditions may not be adequately addressed in this type of setting.

Here are some potential pros and cons of healthcare offered by a discount retailer:

Pros of Healthcare from a Discount Retailer:

Low cost:

One potential advantage of this model? It could make healthcare more affordable for individuals who do not have insurance or who have high deductibles.

Convenience:

Discount retailers are often more convenient to access than traditional healthcare facilities. They may have longer hours and more locations.

Simplicity:

The care provided by discount retailers may be more straightforward. These retailers may focus on basic services such as vaccinations and screenings. This could make it easier for individuals to get the care they need. No more trying to navigate complex insurance coverage or appointments with multiple specialists.

Cons of Healthcare from a Discount Retailer:

Limited range of services:

Discount retailers may offer a limited range of healthcare services. This may not be sufficient to address more complex or specialized medical conditions.

Lower quality of care:

The providers at discount retailers may not have the same level of training as those at traditional healthcare facilities. Hence, this could lead to a lower quality of care.

Stigma:

Some individuals may feel stigmatized by seeking care at a discount retailer. This could deter them from seeking care even if it is more affordable and convenient.

Dependence on retail model:

Relying on a discount retailer for healthcare could create dependence on this model. Subsequently, this reliance could reduce the availability of more comprehensive and specialized care at traditional healthcare facilities.

Give Healthedly a call if you need further assistance finding the best health coverage for you and your family.

July 22, 2021

How to Stay Healthy as Summer Temps Rise

Health Resources

As summer temperatures rise, it’s important to take steps to stay healthy and prevent heat-related illness. Here are some tips to help you stay cool and healthy during the hot summer months:

Stay Hydrated:

One of the most important things you can do to stay healthy during the summer is to drink plenty of water. Aim to drink at least eight cups of water per day, and more if you are physically active or spending time in the heat. Avoid drinks that are high in sugar or caffeine, as these can actually dehydrate you.

Wear Light, Breathable Clothing:

To stay cool in the heat, it’s important to wear clothing that is light and breathable. Choose loose-fitting, lightweight fabrics like cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking materials. Avoid dark colors, which absorb heat, and try to cover up as much skin as possible to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.

Use Sunscreen:

To protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays, it’s important to use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.

Take Cool Showers or Baths:

To cool off during the hot summer months, try taking a cool shower or bath. Not only will this help you feel more refreshed, but it will also help to regulate your body temperature and prevent heat-related illness.

Stay Inside During the Hottest Parts of the Day:

To avoid the heat as much as possible, try to stay inside during the hottest parts of the day, typically between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you must be outside, try to find shade or take frequent breaks in the shade or in an air-conditioned space.

Use Fans or Air Conditioning:

To stay cool at home, try using fans or air conditioning. If you don’t have air conditioning, try using a portable fan or opening windows to create a cross breeze. Just be sure to close windows and blinds during the hottest parts of the day to keep the heat out.

Avoid Hot Foods and Drinks:

During the summer, it’s best to avoid hot foods and drinks, as they can actually make you feel warmer. Instead, opt for lighter, cooler meals like salads, fruits, and cold sandwiches.

Stay Active, but Take it Easy:

While it’s important to stay active during the summer, it’s also important to take it easy and listen to your body. Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day, and make sure to take frequent breaks to rest and hydrate.

Know the Signs of Heat-Related Illness:

It’s important to be aware of the signs of heat-related illness, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness, nausea, headache, and heavy sweating. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to move to a cooler location and drink plenty of fluids. Symptoms of heat stroke include high body temperature, rapid pulse, and unconsciousness. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, call 911 immediately.

By following these tips, you can stay healthy and cool during the hot summer months.

Remember to drink plenty of water, wear light, breathable clothing, use sunscreen, and take frequent breaks in the shade or in an air-conditioned space. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy all that summer has to offer while staying healthy and safe.

If you or someone you know needs affordable health insurance insurance coverage, visit Healthedly today!

July 16, 2021

How to sign up for free or reduced-price health insurance.

News

Are you struggling to afford health insurance? You’re not alone. The high cost of healthcare can be a major burden for many families, but there are options available to help make coverage more affordable. Or even free! One option to consider is Healthedly, a company that offers reduced or zero cost health insurance to those who qualify.

So, what is Healthedly and how do you sign up for their services?

Healthedly is an agency that partners with state and federal governments to offer zero or low-cost health insurance to eligible individuals and families. They offer a variety of plans including Medicaid. To sign up with Healthedly Insurance Services, you will need to determine if you are eligible for coverage. Eligibility is based on a variety of factors, including your income, family size, and state of residence. You can use Healthedly’s online form for a licensed agent to contact you directly to discuss your options.

If you are eligible for coverage, the next step is to complete the enrollment process.

This can typically be done over the phone, and may require you to provide certain documentation, such as proof of income and identification. It’s important to have all of the necessary documents on hand to make the enrollment process as smooth as possible.

Once you have completed the enrollment process, you will receive information about your coverage, including any premiums or copays that may be required. It’s important to keep this information handy and to review it carefully to ensure that you fully understand your coverage.

If you are struggling to afford health insurance, Healthedly may be a good option for you. With a variety of plans available and a straightforward enrollment process, it’s worth exploring whether you might be eligible for their services. Don’t let the high cost of healthcare hold you back from getting the care you need.

Check out Healthedly today and see if they can help you get the coverage you need at a price you can afford.

July 14, 2021

5 Benefits of Attending Farmers’ Markets

Health Resources

Grocery stores densely populate the U.S., but farmers’ markets continue to thrive and offer multiple benefits for attendees.

Why?

Why do farmers’ markets continue to be an appealing, timeless attraction no matter the city or state? Moreover, how can shopping at one of these markets benefit your physical and mental health?

Farmers’ markets tend to be regular, outdoor events in various locations. They boast a vast assortment of locally grown produce from community farmers and nearby businesses.

Instead of shopping at the grocery store this weekend, here are five reasons why you should visit a farmers’ market. Some of these may surprise you.

1) Fresh fruits and veggies

Almost everything at farmers’ markets is locally sourced and homegrown. Hence, the number of chemicals and preservatives decreases significantly. This should be a huge incentive to start researching the next outdoor market in your area. Start by checking out your local food directory. It is time to begin your journey to find accessible, chemical-free fresh produce.

2) Support local farmers

When shopping locally, you automatically support small businesses in your area and give the local economy a boost. Plus, you get to enjoy a different, open-air style of grocery shopping while supporting neighborhood businesses.

3) Affordable produce

Most fresh produce found in grocery stores tends to cost more. But the fruits and veggies you find at a farmers’ market are usually priced much lower and it is worth every penny you pay. The chemical-covered produce you place in your shopping cart is often overpriced and lower in value.

4) Community involvement

Since most farmers’ markets take place locally, this makes it easy to get involved in your community and meet people in your area. Farmers’ markets are becoming the new town hall in cities and towns across the country. Moreover, you can participate in boosting the local economy and also meet others in your community or neighborhood. This is a great way to get out of the house and socialize while you shop.

5) Fun, outdoor market experience

Here’s a warning. After visiting a farmers’ market, you may decide you never want to go back to the huge, impersonal grocery stores again. Folks love farmers’ markets for their fresh, spontaneous approach to grocery shopping. These alternative grocery hubs offer a wholesome, enjoyable experience for the whole family. Usually, other types of vendors will participate in the event, whether it is a local ceramics artist, painter, or jewelry maker. Often, local bakeries will set up a booth, giving you the opportunity to try out new spots in your town, all in the same locale.

Browse your local farmers’ market with the peace of mind knowing that you have an insurance plan locked and loaded. If you want to learn about health benefits you are eligible for, start by getting a free quote today!

July 13, 2021

Obstacles Faced by People with Obesity when Seeking Medical Care

General

Obesity is a serious medical condition that can have significant negative impacts on an individual’s overall health and well-being. Unfortunately, people with obesity often face numerous obstacles when seeking medical care. These can include discrimination and bias from healthcare providers. Moreover, it involves a lack of access to specialized medical treatment and equipment. It also includes inadequate insurance coverage for weight-related care. These barriers can make it difficult for individuals with obesity to receive the care they need. Consequently, this leads to poorer health outcomes and an increased risk of serious health complications. It is important for healthcare providers to be aware of and address these obstacles. This way, they can ensure that people with obesity have equal access to quality medical care.

Obesity is a complex medical condition that affects millions of people around the world.

It is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. This is calculated by dividing an individual’s weight in kilograms by their height in meters squared. Obesity is associated with a range of serious health risks. This includes an increased risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and certain cancers.

Despite the serious health risks associated with obesity, people with this condition often face numerous obstacles when seeking medical care. One of the most common barriers is discrimination and bias from healthcare providers. Studies have shown that people with obesity are often stigmatized and discriminated against by healthcare professionals. This can lead to a lack of trust and a reluctance to seek medical care. This type of discrimination can take many forms. Discrimination looks like negative attitudes and stereotypes, lack of respect, and even verbal abuse.

Another obstacle faced by people with obesity is lack of access to specialized medical treatment and equipment.

Many medical facilities are not equipped to accommodate individuals with larger body sizes. This can make it difficult for people with high BMI to receive the care they need. This includes a lack of larger examination tables, blood pressure cuffs, and other equipment. Moreover, it means a lack of specialized training for healthcare professionals to effectively care for patients with obesity.

Inadequate insurance coverage for weight-related care is another major barrier that people with obesity often face. Many insurance plans do not cover the cost of weight loss surgery or other specialized treatment for obesity. This can make it difficult for individuals to access the care they need. This is particularly concerning given that being overweight is a chronic condition that requires ongoing medical management and support.

There are several ways that healthcare providers can work to address these obstacles and improve the healthcare experience for people with obesity.

One important step is to provide specialized equipment and training to accommodate larger body sizes. This can include investing in larger examination tables and blood pressure cuffs, as well as providing training to healthcare professionals on how to effectively care for overweight patients.

Another important step is to ensure that insurance plans adequately cover weight-related care. This can involve lobbying for changes to insurance policies to include coverage for weight loss surgery. It also involves other specialized treatment options. For example: insurance coverage for ongoing medical management and support for people with obesity.

Healthcare providers must work to eliminate biases and prejudices that may affect the care provided to patients with obesity.

This can involve educating healthcare professionals on the root causes of obesity and the importance of treating it as a medical condition rather than a personal failing. It can also involve implementing policies and procedures to ensure that patients with obesity are treated with respect and compassion. This can ensure they are not subjected to discrimination or stigmatization.

Individuals struggling with weight can also play a role in improving their healthcare experience. They can do so by advocating for their own needs. They can seek out providers who are sensitive to the specific healthcare concerns of people with obesity. This may involve finding a healthcare provider who specializes in treating patients with obesity. Or, it could involve seeking out support groups or other resources that provide additional guidance and support.

Overall, it is important for both healthcare providers and individuals with obesity to be aware of the obstacles and challenges faced by people with this condition when seeking medical care.

By addressing these issues, we can work towards a healthcare system that is more inclusive and accessible for all patients, including those with obesity.

In order to improve the healthcare experience for overweight people, it is crucial for healthcare providers to be aware of and address the unique challenges and obstacles that these individuals may face. This can involve providing specialized equipment and training to accommodate larger body sizes, ensuring that insurance plans adequately cover weight-related care, and working to eliminate any biases or prejudices that may affect the care provided to patients with obesity. It is also important for individuals with obesity to advocate for their own healthcare needs and to seek out providers who are knowledgeable about and sensitive to the specific healthcare concerns of people with obesity. By addressing these issues, we can work towards a healthcare system that is more inclusive and accessible for all patients, including those with obesity.

At Healthedly, you can shop and compare health plans to see what low to zero cost health plans you qualify for!

July 6, 2021

What it’s really like as a transgender person to get medical care

General, Health

It can be extraordinarily difficult for transgender people to receive medical care. The following reasons may shed light on this issue.

Lack of insurance coverage:

Many transgender individuals do not have insurance coverage for transition-related care, such as hormone therapy and gender-affirming surgery.

Limited availability of providers for transgender individuals:

There may be a limited number of healthcare providers who are knowledgeable about and sensitive to the needs of transgender patients.

Discrimination and stigma against transgender people:

Trans individuals may face discrimination and stigma when seeking medical care, which can deter them from seeking the care they need.

Unaffordable costs:

Transition-related care can be expensive, and many trans individuals may not be able to afford it.

Lack of cultural competency:

Some healthcare providers may not be familiar with the unique healthcare needs of trans individuals, which can lead to misunderstandings and inadequate care.

Legal barriers:

In some states, there may be legal barriers that make it difficult for trans individuals to access transition-related care.

Looking for health insurance but unsure of where to start? Healthedly will provide you with a free quote and assistance getting enrolled in a health insurance plan that is right for you!

July 1, 2021