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Updated estimates of Long Covid in England and Scotland show that it remains a serious issue

Independent SAGE continues • 239 implied HN points • 27 Apr 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Epidemiology Healthcare policy Chronic Illness Health Research
  1. About 1.1 million people in England and Scotland are estimated to have Long Covid lasting at least 12 weeks, which is a significant number. This suggests that Long Covid is still a serious health problem affecting many individuals.
  2. Most people with Long Covid have been living with it for a long time; over 50% have had it for more than two years. Many new cases are still emerging, especially among those with repeated infections.
  3. Long Covid significantly impacts daily life for many, with nearly 73% experiencing some limitations and about 23% facing major difficulties in their daily activities. Common symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, and difficulty concentrating.

Latest "Bird Flu" Psyop

Who is Robert Malone • 38 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccines Public Health Pharmaceuticals Infectious Diseases Government Policy
  1. The 'bird flu' situation is being used as a psychological operation to manipulate public perception. The reality is that current cases have no risk of spreading between humans and the death rate is much lower than reported.
  2. Vaccination schedules for diseases like tetanus might be overhyped. Research suggests that the immunity from these vaccines lasts much longer than what's currently recommended, meaning fewer shots could be needed.
  3. Public health strategies are becoming overly reliant on vaccination, ignoring other effective treatments. It may be worth considering older treatments and ways to handle infectious diseases without constant vaccination.

Mel Gibson And Joe Rogan Are Useful Idiots!

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 18 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Vaccines Public Health Health Policy Medical Ethics Disease Prevention
  1. There isn't any solid proof that the mRNA Covid-19 vaccines are linked to increased health problems or deaths. Many claims just seem to be speculation without evidence to back them up.
  2. A lot of health issues may actually be tied to nuclear pollution from events like Fukushima and not the vaccines. Some people focus on blaming the vaccines instead of looking at these other serious issues.
  3. Critics like Mel Gibson and Joe Rogan seem to push certain narratives without recognizing the broader problems, like military bioweapons or environmental pollution, which might be the real causes behind public health concerns.

How junk science set a country's health and welfare policy

¡Do Not Panic! • 904 implied HN points • 21 Oct 23
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy Medical Research Long Covid
  1. Junk science influenced a country's health policy and denied benefits to chronically ill people.
  2. Medical professionals can be influenced by social and political ideologies, impacting patient care.
  3. Persistent advocacy by sufferers can challenge harmful treatment recommendations and promote understanding of medical conditions.

Is the No Surprises Act backfiring on patients?

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 439 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24
🏥 Health Politics Health Policy Insurance Issues Patient Advocacy
  1. The No Surprises Act was created to protect patients from surprise medical bills, but it may not be working as intended. Insurers have found ways to manipulate the system, negatively impacting patients.
  2. Insurers can set the rates for out-of-network services and use that power to push down payments to doctors, which may lead to less availability of medical care.
  3. The government has not enforced the law properly, allowing insurers to profit while leaving patients with longer wait times and less access to doctors.
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COVID-Era 'Experts' Are Once Again Having A Meltdown

Unmasked • 125 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Policy Debate Trust Issues Covid response
  1. Many experts during the COVID-19 pandemic failed to remain unbiased and instead became political advocates. This led to a loss of trust from the public.
  2. The phrase 'follow the science' was often used to dismiss individual opinions, which made it hard for some people to voice their concerns or disagreements.
  3. Despite low trust ratings in health agencies and experts, there does not seem to be a push for humility or respect from them towards the public.

Vaccines are like drugs: Some are safe, some are effective, and some have benefits > harms, but not all

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts • 135 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccines Public Health Medical Ethics Drug Safety Clinical Trials
  1. Vaccines, like drugs, can vary in safety and effectiveness. Some work well for certain people but not for others.
  2. It's important to measure how well vaccines work, not just for virus-related issues but for overall health.
  3. We need better monitoring and data sharing after vaccines are given, along with the ability to hold manufacturers accountable if something goes wrong.

Commonwealth Fund: The U.S. Health Care System Is an International Embarrassment

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 3 HN points • 25 Sep 24
🏥 Health Politics Healthcare access Medical Debt Insurance Coverage Policy Reform Public Health
  1. The U.S. spends a lot more on healthcare than other rich countries but still has many people in medical debt. This shows that high costs are a big issue for Americans, even for those with insurance.
  2. Many Americans, even those with jobs, are underinsured because of high deductibles and out-of-pocket costs. This leads to people avoiding necessary medical care.
  3. The government is trying to reduce medical debt and propose solutions like capping out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs. This would help many people afford their medications and healthcare services more easily.

What does the latest data tell us about Long Covid?

Independent SAGE continues • 219 implied HN points • 27 Apr 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Epidemiology Healthcare policy Chronic Illness Health Inequality
  1. Long Covid is still a big health problem, with about 2 million people in the UK affected as of March 2024.
  2. Certain groups are more likely to suffer from Long Covid, such as those living in poorer areas and certain ethnic groups, especially Mixed and Asian communities.
  3. Many people with Long Covid experience serious symptoms that greatly affect their daily activities, especially if they've been suffering for over two years.

Biden Should Follow UK Government Lead And Ban Puberty Blockers

Michael Shellenberger • 1370 implied HN points • 12 Mar 24
🏥 Health Politics Gender identity Puberty Blockers Legislation
  1. The UK's National Health Service stopped prescribing puberty blockers to children, leading the way in reevaluating medical treatments for gender dysphoria
  2. There is a lack of long-term evidence for the safety and effectiveness of puberty blockers in children, as per the independent review commissioned by NHS England
  3. Advocates are calling for the US, including President Biden, to ban puberty blockers for children and follow the UK's lead

Covid Situation Report: Apr 25, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 219 implied HN points • 26 Apr 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Pandemic response Healthcare systems Infectious Diseases Long Covid
  1. Covid cases in England have stabilized, with low hospital admissions, even though there was a slight rise in positivity rates this week.
  2. Long Covid continues to affect about 2 million people in England and Scotland, especially those aged 45 to 64, with many suffering for over two years.
  3. A new Spring Covid vaccine campaign is underway, targeting the elderly and vulnerable, emphasizing the importance of taking precautions against Covid.

"Make America Healthy Again" is a Dumb, Rich Guy's Idea of Public Health

JoeWrote • 54 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Capitalism Pharmaceuticals Health Crisis Vaccination
  1. American health issues stem from capitalism, not just personal choices or corporations. This system often prioritizes profit over people's health, leading to serious public health crises.
  2. Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s health campaign promises are vague and do not address the fundamental issues behind America's health problems. Instead, they seem designed to raise money rather than provide real solutions.
  3. Critics argue that Kennedy's brand of anti-corporate rhetoric is disingenuous. They point out his connections to the very industries he claims to oppose, suggesting that real change needs to come from collective action rather than relying on wealthy individuals.

Medicare Advantage plans have potentially deadly side effects. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services must act.

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 1079 implied HN points • 14 Aug 23
🏥 Health Politics Healthcare access Public Health Consumer Rights
  1. Medicare Advantage plans are different from traditional Medicare, often limiting your choice of doctors and treatments. This means you might end up paying a lot more for care when you need it.
  2. Advertising for Medicare Advantage plans often focuses on attractive benefits, but downplays the risks and potential costs. It's important to be cautious since the coverage gaps can lead to significant out-of-pocket expenses.
  3. There is a call for stricter regulations on how Medicare Advantage plans are advertised, similar to rules for prescription drugs. This could help ensure people understand the serious implications before signing up.

Lessons from Emory-- Masking Mistakes

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts • 164 implied HN points • 13 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health COVID-19 Vaccine Policy Health Equity
  1. Closing schools for long periods during COVID-19 was a mistake. Some countries didn't close schools and found that kids were not at high risk, which should have guided decisions.
  2. Vaccinating children and healthy adults who have had COVID-19 may not be the best idea. There's concern that this might lead to more vaccine hesitancy, especially when the urgency is communicated incorrectly.
  3. The COVID-19 pandemic impacted poorer communities much more than wealthier ones. There needs to be more open discussions and debates to improve understanding about pandemic responses and their effects.

Can bereaved families sue doctors?

A Lawyer Writes • 530 implied HN points • 09 Jan 24
🏥 Health Politics Court rulings Supreme Court
  1. The Supreme Court was ruling on cases involving psychiatric injury from clinical negligence involving close relatives
  2. Historically, court rulings have shaped the law on negligence and compensation for secondary victims of medical errors
  3. The recent Supreme Court decision clarified that doctors do not owe a duty of care to close family members for illness caused by witnessing a relative's death due to medical negligence

Cigna denied a double lung transplant after a donor was found, leaving a mother scrambling for answers

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 679 implied HN points • 27 Nov 23
🏥 Health Politics Healthcare access Insurance Issues Patient Advocacy Medical Ethics Public Health
  1. Cigna denied a double lung transplant even after a donor was found, leaving the patient and her family in a tough situation. This shows how insurance companies can impact life-saving medical decisions.
  2. In some cases, insurance companies take a long time to approve necessary surgeries, which can be life-threatening. Quick action is critical for patients needing urgent medical care.
  3. This isn't just an isolated incident; many patients face similar issues with insurance companies. More awareness and action are needed to protect patients from such denials.

Covid Situation Report: Mar 21, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 299 implied HN points • 21 Mar 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health COVID-19 Healthcare policy Epidemiology Disease Prevention
  1. Covid hospital admissions are low and stable, indicating the winter surge is over. Rates for flu are slightly higher than for Covid right now.
  2. Deaths due to Covid have decreased in the past month, reflecting lower infection rates. Overall, Covid is still present but at manageable levels.
  3. Older adults are at higher risk for hospitalization if they get Covid. It's important to limit contact when showing symptoms to protect yourself and others.

Reader Question – Top Three Phrases for Dealing with Medical Weight Stigma

Weight and Healthcare • 619 implied HN points • 09 Dec 23
🏥 Health Politics Weight Stigma Informed consent Body positivity
  1. Ask what treatment would be given to a thin person with the same issue to navigate weight stigma in healthcare.
  2. Assert your right to informed refusal to treatment when faced with weight-related recommendations or pressure.
  3. Redirect the focus of the conversation back to your healthcare needs and away from weight discussions using a phrase like 'I'd like to focus on...' to ensure patient-centered care.

Reports and lawsuits allege UnitedHealth uses AI algorithms to cut off care for the elderly and disabled

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 699 implied HN points • 15 Nov 23
🏥 Health Politics Health care Insurance Medicare Regulation Legal issues
  1. UnitedHealth is accused of using AI to deny necessary care for elderly and disabled patients. Some families have filed lawsuits claiming that these algorithms lead to severe treatment cut-offs.
  2. Employees at UnitedHealth face pressure to deny care based on algorithmic targets, which can lead to risky patient outcomes. Many fear losing their jobs if they do not comply.
  3. There is concern about the partnership between UnitedHealth and AARP, especially during Medicare open enrollment. Ads promoting these plans often do not mention the potential dangers of enrolling in private Medicare plans.

Some Candid and Scathing Opinions from a Former NIH Insider

The Good Science Project • 48 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Government Policy Biomedical Research Health Reform
  1. NIH has many institutes, but their setup often comes from political pressure, not careful planning. This can create issues when trying to reorganize for better efficiency.
  2. The Scientific Management Review Board (SMRB) was meant to help with changes at NIH, but it lost effectiveness under pressure from leadership, showing the challenges of making serious reforms.
  3. Collins, as the NIH director, was seen as domineering and sometimes pushed decisions without considering others’ views. This behavior can lead to problematic decisions and lack of support within the organization.

Covid Situation Report: Apr 18, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 219 implied HN points • 19 Apr 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health COVID-19 Vaccination Healthcare policy Disease Control
  1. The Covid situation is improving, with lower hospital admissions and positivity rates compared to before. However, some areas are seeing slight increases.
  2. There is a new booster campaign for older adults and those at risk, highlighting the ongoing need for vaccination to prevent severe outcomes.
  3. Covid is still around and can be serious, especially for older people, so it's important to follow safety measures when feeling unwell.

Understanding mysterious outbreaks

Force of Infection • 70 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Epidemiology Public Health Outbreaks Disease Control Health Policy
  1. Mysterious outbreaks often fall into three categories: known diseases, rare diseases, and completely new diseases. It's important to understand these categories to respond effectively.
  2. The most common cause of an outbreak is usually a known disease that flares up, especially in areas with poor healthcare resources. These can be serious but are often easier to manage.
  3. Outbreaks of rare or new diseases are the most concerning. They require quick action because they can be very dangerous and might not have available treatments or vaccines.

Covid Situation Report: May 2, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 179 implied HN points • 03 May 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccination Infectious Disease Epidemiology Healthcare policy
  1. Covid positivity rates are rising, especially among people aged 65 and older. But overall, hospital admission rates for Covid remain relatively low.
  2. The Autumn 2023 booster significantly reduced hospitalization risks for older individuals, but its effectiveness decreases significantly after 15 weeks. A successful Spring 2024 booster campaign is needed to protect vulnerable populations.
  3. The Spring 2024 booster campaign started strong, with over 1.3 million doses given in the first two weeks. It's important for eligible individuals to get vaccinated as Covid levels may be increasing.

FREE POST: Weekly Reality Report

Reality's Last Stand • 373 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🏥 Health Politics Gender identity Youth Mental Health Transgender rights Medical treatments
  1. The Weekly Reality Report provides a roundup of articles, reading lists, and news headlines for paying subscribers, but this week's report is free.
  2. An interview with Dr. Carrie Mendoza sheds light on challenges faced by detransitioners due to lack of medical services and billing codes.
  3. Various articles critique gender-affirming care, the evolution of HR departments, and the application of intersectionality in social discourse, sparking debates on societal values and well-being.

Allopathic Violence

The Carousel • 51 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Healthcare system Pharmaceuticals Mental health Public Health Insurance Issues
  1. The American health and pharmaceutical system is viewed as harmful and profit-driven, often prioritizing financial gain over patient well-being. This can lead to unnecessary medical treatments and a cycle of dependency on medications.
  2. Many medical issues, especially chronic pain, can be rooted in psychological factors rather than purely physical ones. This shows a need for a more holistic approach to health instead of just treating symptoms with drugs and surgeries.
  3. When dealing with health insurance like UnitedHealthcare, it's important to understand that their role is complex. They can be a part of the problem, but often the real issue lies with healthcare providers and pharmaceutical companies who create unnecessary treatments.

Covid Situation Report: Jun 13, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 99 implied HN points • 15 Jun 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccines Epidemiology Infectious Diseases Health Policy
  1. Covid levels in England have stabilised after a minor rise in mid-May. Most regions are showing low and stable rates.
  2. The Spring 2024 booster vaccination campaign is going well, with 3.9 million doses given, but more needs to be done for vulnerable groups, especially the immunosuppressed.
  3. Older individuals face a higher risk of hospitalisation and death from Covid, highlighting the importance of getting vaccinated, especially for those aged 75 and above.

14 Attorney Generals Demand Answers Regarding the C-19 Vaccine Injured and Dead

Who is Robert Malone • 23 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Government Accountability Health Policy
  1. Fourteen state attorneys general are asking the federal government for answers about the treatment of people injured by COVID-19 vaccines. They feel that the current system is not fair to these individuals.
  2. The Countermeasures Injury Compensation Program (CICP) is seen as lacking transparency and has made it hard for injured individuals to get the support they need. Many claims are denied or unresolved.
  3. People who have suffered from vaccine-related injuries are often left without proper medical care or financial help. Their stories highlight the struggles they face after vaccination and the need for better support.

Retirees in Cortland County, New York, opposed UnitedHealth's Medicare grab and won. At least, for now.

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 579 implied HN points • 29 Nov 23
🏥 Health Politics Healthcare access Insurance Practices Legislation Patient Advocacy
  1. Retirees in Cortland County successfully resisted being moved to a Medicare Advantage plan from UnitedHealth. This shows that organized opposition can make a difference.
  2. Healthcare insurers often hide important information about coverage and approval processes, making it hard for patients to understand what they are entitled to. This lack of transparency can lead to patients missing out on necessary care.
  3. There is growing pressure for legislative changes to protect retirees' choices between traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans. This means that there might be more options for seniors in the future.

Changing Covid-19 isolation?

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1250 implied HN points • 16 Feb 24
🏥 Health Politics Policy Guidelines Public Health Isolation CDC
  1. Contagiousness of Covid-19 remains the same, spreading for 5-12 days.
  2. Health policy decisions involve balancing protection, actionability, and feasibility for diverse populations.
  3. CDC's consideration of new Covid-19 isolation guidelines raises questions about following guidelines, impact on community transmission, and stakeholder views.

Meet Dr. Hurley – a physician (and now a patient) bent on righting the wrongs of insurance denials

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 1218 implied HN points • 05 Jun 23
🏥 Health Politics Healthcare access Insurance Issues Patient Advocacy Chronic Illness
  1. Dr. Hurley, a physician turned patient, fights against health insurance denials that affect patients' access to care. His own experience with his son's surgery denial opened his eyes to the struggles many face with insurance companies.
  2. He wants to reform the medical claims process, aiming for fairness and accountability from insurers. By using his legal education and experience, he hopes to help others navigate the complicated system and advocate for their healthcare rights.
  3. Dr. Hurley emphasizes the importance of having qualified specialists review insurance claims. He believes that having doctors without the right expertise making decisions harms patients and wants to see changes that hold these reviewers accountable.

More suggestions for FDA reform for a Trump presidency

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts • 98 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Regulatory Affairs Healthcare policy Scientific Integrity
  1. The FDA should stop allowing pharmaceutical companies to advertise directly to consumers. This could help reduce biased promotion of drugs.
  2. It's important to improve transparency in the FDA's decision-making process and ensure that medical advice is based on solid evidence.
  3. We need better oversight of the fees the FDA charges for reviews so that smaller businesses aren't unfairly priced out, and more funding should go into tracking the safety of drugs after they are approved.

The top 10 recipients of campaign cash from seven health insurance industry PACs

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 639 implied HN points • 03 Nov 23
🏥 Health Politics Healthcare Reform Insurance Industry Campaign Finance Medicare Advantage Political Influence
  1. Health insurance companies are heavily funding politicians, especially those in powerful positions. This gives them influence over healthcare policies, especially Medicare.
  2. A lot of Medicare-eligible people are being pushed towards private insurance plans called Medicare Advantage, which can lead to worse care for patients.
  3. There's a lot of money involved in keeping the status quo for insurance companies, including political campaign contributions and lobbyists working to protect their interests.

The National Academy of Medicine is only inducting COVID commenters who were incorrect

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts • 103 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health COVID-19 Policy Analysis Trust Issues
  1. The National Academy of Medicine is mostly recognizing people who gave wrong advice about COVID-19. It's surprising that many who commented about COVID-19 and were inducted were incorrect.
  2. There seems to be a focus on honoring those who were strongly in favor of measures like masking and lockdowns. This suggests a loyalty to a specific viewpoint rather than evaluating based on facts or merit.
  3. This trend can hurt public trust in health institutions. If organizations are driven by ideology instead of balanced evidence, it makes people skeptical about their recommendations.

Covid Situation Report: Apr 11, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 199 implied HN points • 12 Apr 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health COVID-19 Vaccination Healthcare policy
  1. Covid hospital admissions are low and stable, indicating that the winter surge has mostly ended. This is a good sign for managing the virus.
  2. A Spring 2024 booster campaign is starting soon, targeting older adults and those with weakened immune systems to help keep them safer.
  3. Deaths from Covid have significantly decreased compared to last year, and the overall numbers continue to go down, which is encouraging news.

She was the first American woman to win the all-around gold medal in Olympic gymnastics. Now she's buried in medical debt.

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 679 implied HN points • 17 Oct 23
🏥 Health Politics Healthcare access Insurance Market Medical Debt Policy Reform Profit Margins
  1. Mary Lou Retton, a celebrated Olympic gymnast, is struggling with large medical bills and has had to ask for help through crowdfunding. Despite her fame, she's one of millions of Americans facing healthcare debt.
  2. UnitedHealth, a major health insurer, is making huge profits while many people struggle to pay for their medical expenses. The company is focusing on profits instead of lowering costs for its customers.
  3. Many insured Americans are also facing high out-of-pocket costs and can't afford healthcare, even with insurance. This situation reveals serious flaws in the healthcare system that need attention from lawmakers.