THE OBESITY EPIDEMIC Target Overweight Prevention and Management
Obesity is a pressing public health issue with significant implications for health care systems like Medicare. As obesity rates continue to rise, Medicare faces increasing challenges in providing comprehensive care to individuals affected by obesity-related conditions. From managing chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease to addressing the aspects of obesity, Medicare must adapt its policies and programs to support prevention, treatment, and management strategies for this growing population. Addressing obesity with Medicare requires a multifaceted approach that integrates medical interventions, behavioral changes, and community support systems to promote healthier lifestyles and reduce obesity-related health care costs. A comprehensive analysis of Medicare data from 2020 revealed that a substantial portion of beneficiaries diagnosed with cardiovascular disease also struggle with weight issues. This group, totaling 3.6 million, accounts for a striking 265 million of all Medicare beneficiaries who are classified as overweight or obese. These patients may be eligible for Medicare coverage, highlighting the need for expanded treatment access. Before reaching the new cap on annual drug spending, Medicare beneficiaries could face substantial out-of-pocket expenses, ranging from $325 to $430 per month. This financial burden may pose challenges for patients, particularly those with fixed incomes or limited resources. In light of these developments, it is imperative to advocate for broader Medicare coverage of medications to address the complex health care needs of patients with cardiovascular disease and obesity. By removing barriers to access and ensuring affordability, policymakers can help improve health outcomes and reduce the burden of preventable cardiovascular events among Medicare benefits. Ongoing research and monitoring of medication utilization and cost trends are essential to inform policy decisions and optimize health care delivery for these individuals. By advocating for expanded Medicare coverage and addressing affordability challenges, we can work toward a health care system that promotes the well-being of all patients, regardless of their socioeconomic status.
As your fledglings spread their wings and fly off into the world, it’s time to feather your own nest with some extra cash. From selling stuff in your closet to starting your own business, you have many ways to make money at this stage of your life. Let’s get started and rake in some extra dough this month with these three tips. SELL YOUR STUFF. You likely have clothes hanging in your closet you haven’t worn in years or electronics sitting around the house you don’t need anymore. Do a big cleaning excursion in your home and gather everything you no longer use. You can resell clothing and other items online or at resale stores like Play Again Sports or Plato’s Closet. If you opt to sell online, many websites offer extra ease by providing pre-paid shipping and packaging for your deliveries. TRADE IN GIFT CARDS. If you have old, unused, or partially spent gift cards, those are gifts that can keep on giving! Various websites, like CardCash and ClipKard, will trade or buy gift cards from you. You can earn 80%–92% of the card’s value or choose another card you would use. You can gain greater value if you trade for another card at a retailer you use often for household items, like Amazon or Target. START A SIDE HUSTLE. Do you have a passion, unique skill set, and time? Creating your own business or side hustle can be an excellent way to generate additional income. If you have a hobby where you make things, you can set up a structure to sell those items online. Additionally, if you have a specific skill to share, you can earn income by teaching online or writing and selling an e-book. A side hustle can grow into your primary source of income, or you can keep the scale small. From turning clutter into cash or unleashing your entrepreneurial spirit with a side hustle, the opportunities to generate additional income are as boundless as the sky. So, fly high with these excellent money-earning tips and watch your bank account soar. EMPTY NEST, FULL WALLET Innovative Ways to Make Extra Money
2 THEMEDICAREAUTHORITY.COM
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