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Drug Overdoses Caused By Fentanyl Now At An All-Time High

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. It is often prescribed to patients as a painkiller after surgery or to manage chronic pain conditions. However, it can also be obtained illicitly and used recreationally. Unfortunately, the use of fentanyl has been linked to a significant increase in drug overdose deaths in recent years.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of drug overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids. This includes fentanyl, more than doubled from 2015 to 2016. In 2016, over 20,000 overdose deaths involved synthetic opioids. This shows a significant increase from the roughly 9,000 overdose deaths in 2015.

One of the reasons why fentanyl has become such a problem? It can be easily mixed with other drugs, such as heroin, without the user knowing.

This means that people who are using these drugs recreationally may not realize that they are taking a potentially lethal dose of fentanyl. In fact, many overdose deaths involving fentanyl are caused by people who thought they were taking another drug, such as heroin, but unknowingly ingested a dose of fentanyl as well.

Another reason why fentanyl has become such a problem is that it is cheap and easy to produce. This makes it attractive to drug dealers and traffickers. They can produce large quantities of the drug and sell it at a profit. Fentanyl is often shipped into the United States from other countries, making it difficult to track and regulate.

The use of fentanyl has also been linked to a rise in drug overdose deaths among young people. The CDC reports that the rate of drug overdose deaths among people ages 15 to 24 has increased significantly since 2015. This is likely due in part to the fact that many young people are using drugs recreationally. They may not be aware of the risks associated with using fentanyl.

There are several steps that can be taken to address the problem of drug overdoses caused by fentanyl. One of the most important is to educate people about the risks of using fentanyl and other drugs. This includes providing information about the signs of an overdose and how to get help if someone is experiencing an overdose.

Another important step is to increase access to overdose prevention medications, such as naloxone. Naloxone is a drug that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and save lives. It is available in a variety of forms, including a nasal spray and an injection. Moreover, it can be administered by anyone, regardless of their medical training.

In addition to increasing access to overdose prevention medications, it is also important to increase access to substance abuse treatment and support services.

This can include providing funding for drug treatment programs. It also includes increasing the availability of mental health services, and expanding access to peer support programs.

It is also important to address the root causes of drug addiction and abuse. This may involve addressing social and economic factors that contribute to drug use. These factors include poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to education and healthcare.

Overall, the problem of drug overdoses caused by fentanyl is a complex and multifaceted issue. This issue requires a comprehensive approach to address. We must educate people about the risks of using fentanyl and other drugs. Also, health authorities need to overdose prevention medications and substance abuse treatment. Most importantly, authorities need to address the root causes of drug addiction and abuse. We can work to reduce the number of overdose deaths caused by fentanyl and other opioids. Wondering about what health coverage that you could be eligible for? Well, look no further than Healthedly. Give us a call at 855-522-2201 so our agents can give you a free quote for health insurance.

November 18, 2021

Studies Show That People Love Their Healthcare

General

There are a variety of reasons why people may love their healthcare plans. For some, it may be the peace of mind that comes with having access to necessary medical treatment and the financial security that a healthcare plan provides. For others, it may be the specific features and benefits of their plan that they appreciate.

One reason people may love their healthcare plans is the sense of security that it provides.

Having access to necessary medical treatment can be incredibly important. And of course, knowing that you have that access can bring a great deal of peace of mind. Additionally, a healthcare plan can also provide financial security by helping to mitigate the high costs of medical treatment. Without a healthcare plan, an unexpected medical event can quickly lead to financial ruin. With a healthcare plan, people can rest assured that they will be able to afford the medical care they need.

Another reason people may love their healthcare plans is the specific features and benefits that they offer.

Some people may appreciate the fact that their plan covers a wide range of treatments and services. These services include preventive care, prescription drugs, and mental health services. Others may appreciate that their plan has a low deductible, or that it has a robust network of doctors and hospitals to choose from. People also can love and appreciate their plans because of the coverage for their pre-existing conditions that some plans provide. They know that they can get the treatment they need without fear of discrimination.

Additionally, some people may appreciate the flexibility and customization that a healthcare plan can offer.

For example, many plans now offer the option to choose from a variety of different coverage levels, such as bronze, silver, gold, and platinum. This allows people to pick a plan that is tailored to their specific needs and budget. Similarly, some plans offer add-on options. These include dental coverage or vision coverage, that allow people to further customize their plan to their liking.

Another reason why people love their health care plans?

They have a primary care physician or a network of providers that they have built a trusting relationship with over time. They have a point of contact for their healthcare needs and concerns, which provides a sense of continuity and convenience, knowing that there is someone who knows their health history and can help guide them through the healthcare system.

Another important aspect to consider when it comes to the healthcare plan is the availability of telemedicine services.

With the current pandemics, telemedicine has become a critical part of healthcare service delivery, as it allows patients to receive medical consultation and treatment remotely. Telemedicine has enabled people to avoid unnecessary exposure to diseases while they get the care they need.

Lastly, people may love their healthcare plans because they feel that they are getting good value for the money they are paying. This can be the case when a plan provides a wide range of benefits for a relatively low premium. Or, people feel that the cost of their plan is in line with the benefits it provides.

In conclusion, there are many different reasons why people may love their healthcare plans. For some, it may be the peace of mind and financial security that a healthcare plan provides. For others, it may be the specific features and benefits of their plan, such as a wide range of treatments and services, a low deductible, or the flexibility and customization options. Additionally, many people appreciate the continuity and convenience that having a primary care physician or a network of providers provides, as well as the availability of telemedicine services. Finally, some people may love their healthcare plans because they feel that they are getting good value for the money they are paying.

Are you looking for a health insurance plan that you will love too? Healthedly has your back. Our agents are happy to assist you in finding the right plan. Give us a call at 855-522-2201!

November 17, 2021

How Cleaning Reduces Workplace Illness and Health Care Costs

Flu Season, General, Health, Health Resources, Small Business

How cleaning reduces workplace illness and health costs

Making sure to keep your work environment sterile helps to reduce workplace illnesses and healthcare costs in several ways:

Removing germs and contaminants:

Regular cleaning can help to remove germs and contaminants from the workplace, which can help to reduce the risk of illness. This is particularly important in the current COVID-19 pandemic. The virus is easily spread through respiratory droplets.

Improving workplace air quality:

Regular cleaning can also help to improve air quality in the office by removing dust, pollen, and other allergens that can contribute to respiratory problems.

Reducing absenteeism:

When employees are sick, they are more likely to be absent from work. By reducing the risk of illness in the office, cleaning can help to reduce absenteeism, which can in turn help to reduce the cost of lost productivity.

Reducing healthcare costs:

By reducing the risk of illness in the workplace, cleaning can also help to reduce healthcare costs. This is because individuals who are healthy are less likely to require medical care. This can help to lower overall healthcare costs.

Overall, maintaining a clean workplace can help to create a healthier and more productive environment. This can help to reduce workplace illnesses and healthcare costs.

Are you a business owner seeking a group plan for employee coverage? Healthedly should be your first and last stop. Our agents will send you a free quote and answer any questions about enrollment that you might have! Give us a call at 855-522-2201!

November 2, 2021

Bridging Technology Gaps to Drive Healthcare Interoperability

General

The healthcare industry has made significant strides in recent years towards the goal of interoperability. Interoperability is the ability for different systems and devices to communicate and exchange data seamlessly. Despite these advancements, however, there remain numerous gaps in healthcare interoperability, including those related to data sharing, security, and workflow. In this blog post, we’ll explore how technology is helping to bridge these gaps and drive healthcare interoperability forward.

One key way that technology is helping to bridge the gap in healthcare interoperability? Through the use of standardized data formats. In the past, different healthcare systems often used proprietary data formats. This made it difficult or impossible for them to exchange information. This lack of standardization led to siloed data and a fragmented healthcare system.

To address this issue, various organizations have developed standardized data formats such as Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR) and Consolidated Clinical Document Architecture (C-CDA).

These standards allow different systems to share data in a way that is consistent and easily understood by all parties. This makes it possible for healthcare providers to access and share patient information more easily. This leads to improved care coordination and better patient outcomes.

Another gap that technology is helping to bridge in healthcare interoperability is the lack of secure data exchange. In the past, the exchange of sensitive healthcare data was often done through fax or other unsecured methods. This posed significant security risks. With the increasing use of electronic health records (EHRs) and other digital systems, however, it is now possible to securely exchange data over the internet.

One way that this is being done is through the use of secure messaging platforms such as DirectTrust. These platforms use encryption and other security measures to ensure that data is protected. The data is transmitted between different healthcare organizations.

In addition to improving data security, technology is also helping to bridge the gap in healthcare interoperability by streamlining workflows. Many healthcare providers still rely on paper-based systems, which can be slow, inefficient, and prone to errors. With the adoption of electronic health records and other digital systems, however, it is now possible to automate many of the manual tasks that are associated with healthcare delivery.

For example, EHRs can be used to automatically order and track lab tests, schedule appointments, and generate reports. This can help to reduce the burden on healthcare providers. Subsequently, this will free them up to focus on more important tasks such as patient care.

One area where technology is particularly well-suited to bridging the gap in healthcare interoperability is in the field of telemedicine.

With the use of telemedicine, healthcare providers can offer remote consultations and other services to patients without requiring them to come into the office. This can be especially beneficial for patients who live in rural areas or who have mobility issues.

Telemedicine can be delivered through a variety of platforms, including video conferencing, phone calls, and messaging. With the use of telemedicine, healthcare providers can access a wider pool of patients, while patients can receive care from the comfort of their own homes.

Overall, it is clear that technology is playing a critical role in helping to bridge the gaps in healthcare interoperability. By standardizing data formats, improving data security, streamlining workflows, and enabling telemedicine, technology is helping to create a more cohesive and efficient healthcare system. As healthcare continues to evolve, it is likely that technology will play an even more important role in driving interoperability and improving patient care.

Give us a call at 855-522-2201 so our agents can give you a free quote for health insurance.

October 28, 2021

How Do I Get Medical Care From the Comfort of Home?

General, Health Resources

Can I get medical care from the comfort of my own home?

Imagine this: you scheduled a visit with your physician at 8am. But, instead of having to wake up in time to get dressed and ready for the commute to the doctor office, you pick up your phone and settle onto the couch with a mug of tea or coffee. And then you sign into your telemedicine app to meet with your doctor. You don’t have to drive forty-five minutes away, or sit in a crowded waiting room. You can see your healthcare provider from the cozy comfort of your living room.

There are several ways to receive healthcare from the comfort of home:

Telemedicine:

Many healthcare providers now offer telemedicine consultations, which allow individuals to have virtual visits with their healthcare provider using a phone, tablet, or computer. This can be a convenient way to receive medical care without having to physically visit a healthcare facility.

Home healthcare:

Home healthcare services can provide medical care and support to individuals in their own home. This can include services such as nursing care, physical therapy, and medical equipment rental.

Online resources:

Actually, there are also many online resources available that can provide information and support for individuals who want to manage their healthcare from home. This includes websites and apps that provide information on self-care and treatment options, as well as online support groups and forums.

Mail-order prescription services:

Many pharmacies now offer mail-order prescription services, which allow individuals to have their medications delivered to their home. This can be a convenient way to receive medications without having to go to the pharmacy in person.

Always keep in mind that while receiving healthcare from home can be convenient, it is not always possible to fully replace in-person care. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment.

Wondering about the best healthcare insurance that will let you see your family physician from your couch? Looking for a free quote on the best insurance for you and your individual needs? Let Healthedly help you! Our agents are ready and waiting to assist you with anything health insurance related. Give us a call today at 855-522-2201.

October 15, 2021

Teladoc Health Is Offering Free Virtual Health Care Services to Those Impacted by Hurricane Ida

General

As the world continues to grapple with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we are now seeing the added challenges of natural disasters like Hurricane Ida. The destruction caused by the hurricane has left many people without access to necessary health care services. This makes it difficult for them to get the care they need.

That’s where Teladoc Health comes in.

The leading virtual health care provider has announced that it is offering free virtual health care services to those affected by Hurricane Ida. This means that anyone impacted by the hurricane can access virtual medical care from the comfort of their own homes. They don’t have to worry about transportation or other logistical issues.

This is an incredible gesture from Teladoc Health! It highlights the importance of virtual health care in times of crisis. By offering these services for free, Teladoc is helping to ensure that people in the affected areas can get the medical care they need. Regardless of their circumstances.

But, what exactly does virtual health care involve?

Essentially, it is the use of technology to provide medical care remotely. This can include things like telemedicine consultations with doctors, virtual physical therapy sessions, and even mental health counseling. You can access all of these services through a phone, tablet, or computer. This makes it easy for people to get the care they need without having to leave their homes.

One of the biggest benefits of virtual health care is that it allows people to get care quickly and efficiently. Of course, you’re dealing with a natural disaster like Hurricane Ida, time is of the essence. By offering virtual health care services, Teladoc is able to provide much-needed medical care to those affected by the hurricane in a timely manner.

In addition to being convenient, virtual health care is also often more affordable than in-person care.

This is especially important for those who may be struggling financially due to the impacts of the hurricane. By offering these services for free, Teladoc is helping to alleviate some of the financial burden that comes with accessing medical care.

Overall, the decision by Teladoc Health to offer free virtual health care services to those impacted by Hurricane Ida is a truly compassionate and generous act. It shows that the company commits to helping people get the care they need, even in the midst of a crisis. And with the continued uncertainty caused by COVID-19, it’s more important than ever to have access to virtual health care options. Have you or someone you know been affected by Hurricane Ida and in need of medical care? Be sure to take advantage of the free services being offered by Teladoc Health.

Give us a call at 855-522-2201 so our agents can give you a free quote for health insurance.

September 8, 2021

The Uses of Virtual Reality for Mental Health

General

Virtual reality (VR) technology has taken the world by storm in recent years. It can transport users into immersive, interactive digital environments. While it has been widely embraced for its entertainment value, growing evidence exists to show that VR can also have a significant impact on mental health.

One of the most promising areas of VR use for mental health is in the treatment of anxiety disorders.

VR exposure therapy allows individuals to confront their fears in a controlled environment. This will gradually desensitize them to the triggers of their anxiety. For example, someone with a fear of flying can use VR to simulate the experience of flying. This gradually increases the intensity of the virtual experience until they are able to manage their anxiety in real-life situations.

Researchers find VR to be effective in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

By reliving traumatic events in a virtual environment, individuals with PTSD can confront their memories. They can work through their emotions in a safe and controlled setting. This can help them to process their trauma and move forward in their recovery.

In addition to its therapeutic applications, VR can also promote relaxation and stress reduction.

Many VR experiences are designed to be calming and meditative. This allows users to escape the stresses of daily life and relax in a virtual environment. This can be especially beneficial for individuals who struggle with stress and anxiety on a daily basis.

However, it is important to note that Virtual Reality can also have negative effects on mental health if not used responsibly. Excessive use of VR can lead to social isolation, as users may prefer the virtual world to real-life interactions. It can also contribute to the development of video game addiction, which can have serious consequences on mental health.

Overall, the impact of VR on mental health is complex and multifaceted.

While it has the potential to be a valuable tool for therapeutic purposes, it is important to use it in moderation. Always seek the guidance of a mental health professional if necessary. As with any new technology, it is important to be aware of both the potential benefits and potential risks.

Are you looking for an insurance plan that fits YOUR needs and finances? Start today by getting a free quote or calling 855-522-2201. Healthedly is here to match you with the best healthcare provider for YOU.

August 18, 2021

Two-Thirds of Americans Have Had a Negative Health Care Experience, According to Accenture Research

General

The healthcare experience is something that everyone goes through at some point in their lives. Whether it’s a routine checkup or a major surgery, healthcare is an integral part of our lives. However, despite its importance, the healthcare experience is not always smooth or enjoyable. There are a number of common problems that people face when seeking medical treatment. These problems can have a serious impact on their overall experience.

One common problem with the healthcare experience is long wait times.

It’s not uncommon for people to spend hours waiting to see a doctor or to receive treatment. This can be frustrating and inconvenient. It can also be detrimental to a person’s health if they are experiencing a serious medical issue. In some cases, long wait times can even be life-threatening.

Another problem with the healthcare experience is the cost.

Medical treatment is expensive, and it’s often difficult for people to afford the care they need. This can lead to people skipping necessary treatments or not seeking medical attention at all. Hence, this can have serious consequences for their health. In addition, the high cost of healthcare can also be a barrier to accessing medical care for many people, particularly those who are uninsured or underinsured.

A third problem with the healthcare experience is the lack of transparency when it comes to pricing.

It’s often difficult for people to know how much a particular medical treatment will cost. This can lead to unexpected and high medical bills. In addition, there are often hidden fees associated with medical treatment, such as fees for using certain facilities or equipment. This can further add to the cost of care.

Another issue with the healthcare experience is the lack of coordination between different medical providers.

It’s not uncommon for people to see multiple doctors and other healthcare professionals for different medical issues. It can be difficult for these providers to communicate and coordinate with one another. This can lead to duplication of tests and procedures, as well as conflicting recommendations for treatment.

Another problem with the healthcare experience is the lack of accessibility.

Many people live in areas where there are few medical facilities or providers. This makes it difficult for them to access the care they need. In addition, some medical facilities are not equipped to accommodate people with disabilities. Unfortunately, this can make it difficult for these individuals to receive treatment.

One more problem with the healthcare experience is the lack of patient education.

Many people are not well informed about their medical conditions or the treatments they are receiving. This makes it difficult for them to make informed decisions about their care. In addition, some medical professionals do not take the time to explain things in a way that is easy for patients to understand. This only further contributes to the problem.

There are also problems with the healthcare experience related to the quality of care.

Despite the fact that medical professionals are highly trained, there are still instances of medical errors and subpar care. This can be due to a variety of factors, such as overworked or undertrained staff, inadequate facilities or equipment, or inadequate oversight.

In summary, the healthcare experience is not always a positive one. There are a number of common problems that people face when seeking medical treatment. These include long wait times, high costs, lack of transparency when it comes to pricing, lack of coordination between medical providers, lack of accessibility, lack of patient education, and issues related to the quality of care. These problems can have a serious impact on a person’s overall healthcare experience. These can even be detrimental to their health. It is important for healthcare providers to work to address these issues in order to improve the healthcare experience for all patients.

Let our licensed agents here at Healthedly help you find the right health insurance plan! Give us a call at 855-522-2201.

August 16, 2021

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

General

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