Hearing aids now available without a prescription!

Hearing aids now available over the counter!

If you are a hearing aid user, you will be happy to hear that they just became available without a prescription! Even better, you can purchase a set for prices as low as $199 over the counter. Gone are the days of waiting for a prescription to improve your hearing capabilities or replace broken aids.

So, what does this mean for you exactly?

Before, we could only access hearing aids with a prescription from an auditory specialist. Generally, these devices cost thousands of dollars, even with a prescription. But now companies like Walmart promise to sell these audio-enhancing devices for prices as low as $199.

Dr. Frank Lin of John Hopkins University predicts that the hearing aid industry may need a few years to establish itself and sort out. But rest assured that before long, more and more retailers will make hearing aids available in stores near you. Lin also believes that prices will lower even more significantly in the next few years.

Over-the-counter aids will cost less mostly due to the fact that they will not be specifically tuned and fitted by an audiologist. However, manufacturers will make it possible for users to tune the aids for themselves thanks to phone apps and software.

Sony has announced OTC hearing aids manufactured at a South African-based company called hearX, which also creates Lexie devices.

Bose also plans to collaborate with hearX to develop Lexie hearing devices. Bose will partner with retailers such as Walgreens, Walmart, and Best Buy to develop hearing aids with hearX’s Lexie devices.

So, there will be no shortage of options to choose from, as the over-the-counter hearing aids market expands and grows.

About 37 million Americans struggle with their hearing. However, only 1 in 4 Americans who need these auditory-enhancing devices are able to access hearing aids.

This push to make hearing aids available over the counter will be huge in allowing new demographics of Americans access to better hearing.

If you are looking for health insurance coverage but don’t know where to start, look no further than Healthedly! Call 855-522-2201 for a free quote from our agents! We are here to answer any questions about health insurance enrollment that you might have!

November 22, 2022

Medicare Part B Premiums Lower in 2023

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Medicare just made a big announcement regarding their Part B Premiums for 2023. These standard premiums will drop by 3% next year. The monthly premium for Medicare Part B will actually reduce by $5.20 by 2023. This will also lower the deductible for Part B.

What do lowered premiums mean for you?

Thanks to Medicare Part B’s projected spending on Aduhelm, a medication to battle the onslaught of Alzheimer’s, the premium for this program dropped more than expected. Medicare spent less than expected on Aduhelm, meaning they could spend more on Part B. This in turn led to a reduction in 2023 Medicare premiums!

Medicare Part A, on the other hand, raised its deductible per benefit period, which starts upon admission to a hospital, to $1,600 in 2023, from its current amount of $1,556. This amount applies to the first 60 days of inpatient hospital care.

If you are considering Medicare Part B with the lower premiums coming in 2023, now is the time to act as open enrollment season draws near.

Other changes to make note of

After the 61st day and through the 90th day, however, coinsurance will cost at least $400 a day. The price of coinsurance will go up by $11 from the current amount this year.
Moreover, IRMAAs are effective in January as well, for individuals with a gross income of over $97,000. Those filing jointly must expect an extra monthly charge if their net income is over $194,000 instead of 2022’s ceiling of $182,000.

These changes are announced just as open enrollment season approaches, so definitely consider these lowered premiums as you research health insurance plans.

If you are looking for the right healthcare insurance to fit your needs, look no further than Healthedly! Get a free quote today by calling 855-522-2201.

October 20, 2022

American Rescue Plan

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– June 30, 2021

Originally Published on CMS.gov

Consumers should Visit HealthCare.gov Beginning July 1 to see if they Qualify for New Financial Help.

As part of the American Rescue Plan (ARP) signed by President Biden, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is again lowering the cost of health insurance and opening more pathways for Americans to obtain affordable and comprehensive health coverage. Starting July 1, 2021, consumers who received or are approved to receive unemployment compensation for any week beginning in 2021 may be able to find even lower cost plans and save extra money on out-of-pocket expenses through HealthCare.gov.

To take advantage of these additional savings, consumers who received or have been approved for unemployment compensation in 2021 need to visit HealthCare.gov to submit a new application or update their existing application to maximize the savings they can get for the rest of 2021. An average of three out of five eligible uninsured Americans can access $0 plans after advance payments of tax credits and an average of four out of five current HealthCare.gov consumers will be able to find a plan for $10 or less per month after advance payments of tax credits. CMS encourages current consumers who have received unemployment income for any week beginning in 2021 to update their application and enrollment between July 1 and August 15 to maximize the savings on their Marketplace coverage for the rest of the year.

“The Biden-Harris Administration is focused on providing relief to millions of families who need to access health insurance coverage because they have been impacted by job losses or underemployment during the pandemic,” said HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra. “The Administration has made it easier than ever for Americans to enroll in an affordable, comprehensive health insurance plans through HealthCare.gov thanks to the increased financial assistance provided through the American Rescue Plan. We encourage consumers who have received unemployment compensation in 2021 to visit the Marketplace to see if they qualify to save money on their health insurance premiums and out-of-pocket costs.”

“We are doing everything we can to remove financial barriers to comprehensive health care,” said CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure. “The American Rescue Plan provides consumers with additional savings and will make coverage even more attainable for those most in need. We welcome people who received unemployment benefits in 2021 to check out their health coverage options on HealthCare.gov on July 1.”

Additionally, as a result of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Special Enrollment Period for the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, consumers can continue to apply for coverage, compare plan offerings, or learn if they qualify for more affordable premiums by visiting HealthCare.gov or CuidadoDeSalud.gov through August 15. Consumers can view 2021 plans and prices and submit an application to see if they are eligible for enrollment and financial assistance. If eligible, they can enroll in a plan that best meets their needs. Current enrollees should review their application, make any updates needed to their current information, submit their application, and then select a new plan or reselect their current plan to receive the increased savings under the ARP.

Visit Healthedly.com or call 855-522-2201 for more information on affordable health coverage!

(Original article published by CMS.Gov ‘https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/american-rescue-plan-lowers-health-insurance-costs-americans-who-may-have-lost-their-job’)

June 30, 2022

What is the impact of the formula shortage?

News

As demand for baby formula remains the same. Supply is still alarmingly low. Many people look for assistance from hospitals and community organizations for help.

The government is flying tons of formula from other countries into the U.S. Also, Abbott is reopening a factory that produces nearly half the powdered formula sold in our country, however it is still expected to take several weeks for retailers to get their regular supply.

“One estimate, from the market research company Datasembly, found that stock rates have not improved. During the last week of May, 74% of formula products were out of stock at some point. In nine states, including many in the South, more than 90% of formula products weren’t always available, which means families are still on the hunt.” (Source: CNN.com)

When it is possible to find formula at a local store, it may not be the right brand or type your baby is used to. This can cause major problems for your little one’s not being consistent on the formula they’re consuming.

As supply steeply declined, it initially only affected those in need of specialty formulas, then increased to affect every formula. This caused parents to frantically call the hospitals in search of anyone who could help them. In the formula rooms of hospitals they have had to mix other commercially available products out of necessity. However, this is done under expert supervision and is not recommended to be done at home.

For more information on health insurance or healthy tips, visit us through Healthedly Insurance Services to learn more.

June 7, 2022

4 Ways to Stay Healthy During Pregnancy

Health Resources, News

Pregnancy is a crucial time in a woman’s life. Not only is it advisable to stay on top of healthy habits for your own sake, but also for the baby you are carrying. Here are 4 ways you can boost your health during pregnancy for a healthy baby and a healthy mom.

1)Stay active

Whether you run, attend a Yoga class, or do stretches every morning, safe but regular physical activity is recommended by medical experts for expecting mothers. Exercise promotes mental and physical wellbeing, making for a happy and healthy mom and baby.

2)Take prenatal vitamins every day

Not only do prenatal vitamins offer nutrients, but they also boast other incredible benefits. They boost iron levels in the blood, and are a source of important minerals and vitamins for expecting mothers.

3)Rest as much as possible

This might seem like an obvious one, but getting enough rest is crucial for pregnant women. Plenty of rest results in overall improved blood flow, mental health, and physical wellbeing for all parties involved. Make sure to get at least 8 hours of sleep each night.

4)Plan your family responsibly

Since stress levels need to stay low while you are expecting, responsible family planning should be a priority. You want to ensure a smooth pregnancy, so sorting out your finances should be a must. This means talking with your partner and coming up with a checklist of how to create a sustainable, positive environment for mother and baby. The less stress, the better, so take the time to sit down and ensure the best time to start trying for a baby.

Are you an expecting parent, wondering about the best healthcare plan for you and your baby on the way? Get a free quote today so your growing family can be prepared for anything and everything.

February 28, 2022

5 Alternatives to Melatonin to Get a Better Sleep

Health Resources, News

You may have heard of a popular supplement called melatonin that you can take as gummies or pills at night to get a deeper, sounder sleep. But melatonin shouldn’t be the only solution you look to for a good night’s sleep. Here are five other ways you can try to get the most out of your rest each night.

1)Stay consistent

Smartphones now offer a feature where you can set your bedtime. Why? Because consistency is key when it comes to developing healthy sleep patterns for an optimal rest. Every night, try to go to bed at the same time. Studies show that this results in a deeper, more restful sleep.

2)Put away any devices

Blue light from screens, whether it is TV, your phone, or a computer, can decrease the quality of your sleep and make you more restless during the night. Thus, scientists recommend putting away any devices about an hour before bed and winding down without blue light.

3)Avoid caffeine in the late afternoon

This should be a given. Caffeine stimulates the mind, so avoid drinking any caffeinated drinks in the late afternoon for a better rest at night. Many who have drank coffee or something similar at night have experienced difficulty falling asleep and/or staying asleep. Studies show that those who refrain from caffeine later in the day have improved quality of sleep.

4)Exercise daily

Regular exercise is recommended by experts for a better rest a night. Not only does daily exercise help with overall wellness, but it also leads to a better sleep at night because your body will need rest after strenuous activity.

5)Don’t eat a large meal before bed

Eating a large meal before bed can lead to indigestion while you are trying to fall asleep. Experts recommend a light, healthy meal before bedtime to promote quality sleep.

While melatonin is an accessible supplement promising a deeper sleep, there are so many other ways to improve your nightly rest. Another way to sleep better at night? Knowing your insured with the best possible healthcare plan is sure to make it easier to relax. Start today by getting a free quote!

February 9, 2022

At-Home Tests May Miss New Variant

News

Some at-home tests may miss variant Omicron in early stages of infection

Experts recently discovered that the Abbott BinaxNOW and Quidel QuickVue rapid at-home COVID tests might sometimes miss traces of the Omicron variant in the first days after contraction.

The researchers create a focus group with 30 people infected with COVID at five different workplaces. These participants experienced what were most likely outbreaks of the Omicron variant that began last month. The focus group received both saliva-based PCR tests and rapid antigen-based tests involving nasal swabs.

It took three days, on average, for the group to test positive on the two rapid antigen tests. After their first positive PCR result, researchers reported that in four cases, participants of the study transmitted the virus to others even after a negative result.

Moreover, studies have also surfaced that some people who initially tested negative on antigen nose-swab tests then went on to receive a positive result after swabbing the back of their throats.

The latest study is consistent with other preliminary evidence that the at-home tests may fail to detect some Omicron cases in the early days of infection.

Thus, people should remain cautious after getting negative results, especially when they exhibit symptoms or believe they may have come into contact with the virus.

Why are the rapid at-home tests missing Omicron in the early stages of infection? They only detect proteins lying on the surface of the coronavirus. Experts say that if mutations in the virus change the structure of these proteins, antigen tests might miss the variant.

The study comes a week after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration released its own update on the effectiveness of the rapid antigen tests. But early data suggests that antigen tests do detect the Omicron variant but may reduce sensitivity.

Many of those studies began too early with small focus groups, so much more data is needed.

The at-home tests can deliver results in minutes and positive results are more reliable. They can be an important tool alongside PCR tests, which can take days to come back. However a significant amount of testing still needs to be done.

The FDA update was not the first sign of decreased sensitivity with the rapid tests. Overall, the researchers found that the tests were less sensitive to Omicron than to previous variants.

Hopefully in the near future, at-home tests will be able to distinguish the Omicron variant from other variants.

Looking for the right insurance for you and your family? Start by getting a free quote today!

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January 13, 2022

Children Under 5 Await To Be Vaccinated for COVID-19

News

At this point during the pandemic, kids under 5 make up only a tiny fraction of the number of people who’ve been sick. This age group accounts for 2.7% of total Covid-19 cases, but only 6% of the overall US population.

Kids are far less likely to be hospitalized or die from Covid-19 than adults. Children make up 1.2% of the hospitalizations and 0.02% of the deaths. But the virus is still a threat to them, regardless. Hence, the push to release a COVID-19 vaccine designed especially for children becomes crucial.

Recently, Dr. Claudia Hoyen, director of pediatric infection control at UH Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital in Cleveland, reported the highest number of Covid patients in the hospital in the past week. That number far exceeded anything seen during the pandemic.

This recent surge in children cases increased the urgency for a child-friendly vaccine. Dr. Bill Hartman runs the Moderna Covid-19 vaccine trial for kids 6 months to 5 years at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He thinks that a vaccine for this age group could be available as early as the first or second month of 2022. He says they are making the vaccine a priority due to the rising number of COVID cases in the children under five demographic. Hartman announced a new study to create an effective, child-friendly vaccine.

However, Hartman and his team saw so much interest that they had to shut down the recruitment line after only one day. But Hartman isn’t the only one starting to seek protection for children against COVID-19.

Dr. Simon Li works hard on the Pfizer/BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine trial. He claims his study will follow tested children for two years to measure efficacy of their vaccine.

Moderna also plans to gather data on vaccines in younger children over the course of the next few years. Only Johnson & Johnson says it has not started trials of its Covid-19 vaccine for children younger than 12.

At first, Dr. Li thought it would be difficult to recruit children for the Pfizer/BioNTech trial. Parents can be protective, he said, especially when it comes to vaccines for their children. Thus, it can take a while to recruit volunteers.

The center initially needed to recruit about 150 children ages 6 months to 11 years. In August, the US Food and Drug Administration asked Pfizer to enroll more participants to verify that there were no safety issues. Though there were only a handful of available spots, Li reported that another thousand people asked to be part of the trial.

Pfizer announced in an earnings call last week that in the first half of 2022, they intended to submit data from the trials to regulatory authorities. The company reassured that the development of a third dose should not affect this timeline.

The more people the virus can infect, the more chance that it will evolve and become more infectious. We saw this happen when the Delta variant mutated.

Dr. Hartman advised parents to insulate kids from the COVID-19 virus until vaccines for children are released.

Are you looking for the right life insurance plan for you and your kids? Get a free quote today!

January 4, 2022

Child Hospitalizations Grow Due to Omicron Variant

News

As Omicron Spreads, Child Hospitalizations Climb 30% in Past Week

By Dec. 28, the country had an average of 260 pediatric COVID-19 hospitalizations each day, according to the latest data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In New York City alone, child hospitalizations are up fivefold since early December, nearly all among unvaccinated kids.

The symptoms being seen are serious enough to be admitted to the hospital, which again is an indication that this is not just a disease of adults.

Children ages 5 and older can now receive a COVID vaccine. Yet in New York state, for example, only roughly 27% of 5- to 11-year-olds are vaccinated. The vaccination rate is even lower in the United States as a whole, at about 23%.

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