logo
Allison Sesso

Allison Sesso

Yahoo16-04-2025
Credit - Kristin Karkoska
Every year, tens of thousands of Americans get sick or die for the crime of being unable to afford medical coverage, and over 100 million currently struggle with medical debt. Allison Sesso runs one of the only organizations that effectively address this crisis: Undue Medical Debt buys medical debt for pennies on the dollar, then does something unheard of: forgives it. I know—what a concept! As of 2024, the organization had forgiven more than $14 billion in debt, relieving over 9 million people of that burden. It's now partnering with local and state governments across the U.S. to make an even greater impact.
Allison's organization not only commits a stunning act of generosity, it also brings attention and awareness to a system we created, and can just as easily undo. In an era of lip service to making a better world, her work actually takes steps toward bringing that world into being.
Conover is a writer and comedian
Contact us at letters@time.com.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Cody Rigsby is 'over' wellness trends. Now he's keeping it simple.
Cody Rigsby is 'over' wellness trends. Now he's keeping it simple.

USA Today

time2 hours ago

  • USA Today

Cody Rigsby is 'over' wellness trends. Now he's keeping it simple.

Cody Rigsby recently restarted therapy. The New York City-based Peloton instructor, 38, told USA TODAY he picked back up his sessions after about six weeks off. Rigsby says in therapy he's focused on "getting right with the thoughts and feelings that are coming up, and seeing what I need to take with me through the rest of the summer." For anyone picking up a wellness routine after a hiatus, Rigsby says working out or going to therapy might require an initial hurdle, but it's worth it. "You can do something you don't want to do for 20 minutes," Rigsby says. "That consistently turns into a good feeling." Shedding the wellness fads Now is the time to get back to simple wellness routines, Rigsby says, and make a back-to-school plan to take into the fall. He's "over" the whiplash of wellness trends, and wants to set an example of simple ways for reliable results that make us feel good. He's taking this mentality into his partnership with Kashi, leaning away from habits like crash diets, feeling guilty about carbs and restrictive meal plans, and embracing intuitive, mindful routines. A bowl of simple cereal encapsulates that desire for ease, he says. And with exercise classes and therapy sessions expensive right now amid inflation and rising consumer prices, Rigsby recognizes many Americans are struggling to keep us with constant fads to eat right and get active. To anyone feeling that wellness isn't accessible for them right now, Rigsby suggests simple, free tasks, like meditating for five minutes, a body weight exercise or a walk in a public space. "It doesn't feel complicated," Rigsby says of this current wellness ethos. What's the difference? Minimally-processed vs. ultra-processed foods How a fitness leader stays fueled Rigsby, known for his effusive pop-music-backed positive cycling classes, has learned a lot about protecting his energy on and off the Peloton screen. Many people rely on him for their sacred moment of the day catching their breath between pedaling to Britney Spears and laughing at his "Codylations." But he's learned to set boundaries, he says, so he's got enough fuel to show up for himself and his classes. "What really recharges me is quality time with the people I care about," Rigsby says of the balance. He tries to schedule moments of self care into his life, from a workout daily to a monthly night out with friends to an annual big vacation. "I'm fortunate enough to have a job I get to bring that joy to what I do and connect with people," Rigsby says. He's also stepped into a caregiving role for his mother, a duty he acknowledges is "draining" for so many people who manage the well-being of a friend or family member. "With my mom, there are things I'm responsible for, but I try carve out time that's fun, enjoyable and memorable," Rigsby says. He has learned how to anticipate his "triggers" when going to be with his mom so he's able to show up and make the most of their time, rather than feel depleted or frustrated. "A big reminder is that whether we are the caregiver or the person being taken care of, we're all doing the best we can," Rigsby says of his experience. "We're never going to do it perfectly, so give yourself a lot of grace because no one gives you a guidebook on how to have kids or how to care of your parents or how to take care of a partner. We're going to mess up." The caregiving economy: Nearly half of parents with disabled kids report suicidal thoughts, but can't find help He balanced work and personal responsibilities with opportunities for restoration and exploration this summer, he says. Watching all four seasons of Netflix's "Emily in Paris" (a show he describes as "so bad it's so good") was his easy way to "dissociate" from the anxieties of his packed schedule. And he toured Europe, adventuring across Paris, London and Madrid. His favorite moment: A peaceful mid-week wander through the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía in Spain. Art as wellness? "It's inspiring," he says.

Why Medicare Represents One of America's Greatest Achievements
Why Medicare Represents One of America's Greatest Achievements

Time Business News

time3 hours ago

  • Time Business News

Why Medicare Represents One of America's Greatest Achievements

Medicare has quietly transformed millions of lives since its inception in 1965, providing healthcare security to older Americans when they need it most. Far from being just another government program, Medicare represents a promise fulfilled—ensuring that reaching age 65 doesn't mean choosing between medical care and financial stability. Consider this remarkable fact: before Medicare existed, only half of America's seniors had health insurance. Hospital bills could wipe out lifetime savings overnight, and many older adults simply went without necessary medical care. Medicare changed that reality fundamentally, creating a safety net that now serves over 64 million Americans with reliable healthcare coverage. The program's success extends beyond individual benefits. Medicare has driven innovations in medical care, established quality standards that benefit all patients, and created efficiencies that help control healthcare costs across the entire system. Understanding Medicare's positive impact helps us appreciate not just what this program provides today, but how it continues shaping American healthcare for the better. Medicare provides something invaluable that's difficult to quantify: peace of mind. Knowing that hospitalization won't result in bankruptcy allows seniors to focus on recovery rather than financial worry. This psychological benefit translates into better health outcomes, as stress about medical bills no longer compounds physical health challenges. The program's comprehensive structure addresses diverse healthcare needs through its different parts. Part A covers hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, and hospice services—often the most expensive aspects of healthcare. Part B handles doctor visits, preventive care, and outpatient services that keep people healthy. Together, these components create a healthcare foundation that supports active, independent living. Recent enhancements have made Medicare even more valuable. The program now covers annual wellness visits, preventive screenings, and vaccines at no additional cost. These preventive benefits help catch health issues early when they're more treatable and less expensive, benefiting both patients and the healthcare system overall. Medicare's influence extends far beyond its beneficiaries, serving as a catalyst for healthcare innovation and quality improvement across the entire medical system. When Medicare adopts new payment models or quality measures, private insurers often follow suit, amplifying the program's positive impact. The program has pioneered value-based care initiatives that reward providers for keeping patients healthy rather than simply treating illness. These approaches have reduced hospital readmissions, improved care coordination, and enhanced patient satisfaction scores nationwide. Healthcare providers participating in Medicare's quality programs often apply these same high standards to all their patients, regardless of insurance type. Medicare's prescription drug benefit, added in 2006, has helped millions of seniors afford necessary medications. The program negotiates drug prices and provides catastrophic coverage that prevents medication costs from becoming overwhelming. Recent policy changes have further reduced costs in the coverage gap, making medications more affordable for beneficiaries with high drug expenses. Medicare plays a crucial role in supporting healthcare infrastructure, particularly in rural areas where private insurance markets may be limited. The program's guaranteed payments help keep rural hospitals operational and ensure that specialists remain available in smaller communities. Critical Access Hospitals, which serve many rural areas, rely heavily on Medicare reimbursements to maintain their doors open. These facilities provide emergency care, basic surgical services, and other essential healthcare services that might otherwise be unavailable in remote areas. Medicare's support helps maintain the healthcare safety net that rural Americans depend on. Telehealth expansions, accelerated during the pandemic, have made Medicare even more valuable for rural beneficiaries. The program now covers virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other technologies that bring specialized care directly to patients' homes, eliminating transportation barriers that previously limited access to care. Medicare Advantage plans have revolutionized Medicare by offering additional benefits and often lower costs than traditional Medicare. These plans frequently include prescription drug coverage, dental care, vision services, and wellness programs—benefits that help seniors maintain better overall health. Ohio residents have access to numerous Medicare Advantage options, with many plans offering innovative benefits like transportation services, meal delivery, and gym memberships. These extra benefits address social determinants of health that impact overall wellbeing, demonstrating how Medicare continues evolving to meet changing healthcare needs. The competition among Medicare Advantage plans has driven improvements in customer service, provider networks, and benefit offerings. Plans compete not just on price but on quality ratings, encouraging continuous improvement in care delivery and member satisfaction. Medicare generates significant economic benefits that ripple throughout American society. The program supports millions of jobs in healthcare, from doctors and nurses to medical device manufacturers and pharmaceutical researchers. This employment impact extends to every community where healthcare services are provided. For families, Medicare reduces the financial burden of caring for aging parents. Adult children no longer face the impossible choice between their financial security and their parents' medical needs. This protection preserves family wealth and allows younger generations to invest in their futures, including education, homeownership, and retirement savings. Medicare's purchasing power helps control healthcare costs system-wide. The program's standardized payment rates provide predictability for healthcare providers while preventing the price variations that can make healthcare unaffordable. This stabilizing effect benefits all healthcare consumers, not just Medicare beneficiaries. Medicare demonstrates remarkable adaptability, continuously evolving to meet changing healthcare needs and incorporate medical advances. The program has expanded to cover new treatments, technologies, and care delivery models that didn't exist when it was first created. Recent additions include coverage for mental health services, diabetes prevention programs, and cardiovascular disease screening. These expansions reflect a growing understanding of comprehensive healthcare needs and the importance of preventive care in maintaining health and controlling costs. Medicare's quality reporting programs have driven improvements in hospital safety, care coordination, and patient outcomes. Hospitals and other providers compete to achieve high Medicare quality ratings, creating incentives for excellence that benefit all patients. Medicare's success story continues unfolding as the program adapts to serve growing numbers of beneficiaries with increasingly diverse needs. Baby boomers entering Medicare bring different expectations and health profiles, driving continued innovation in benefit design and care delivery. The program's commitment to coverage and access remains unwavering even as healthcare evolves rapidly. New medical technologies, treatments, and care models undergo careful evaluation for Medicare coverage, ensuring beneficiaries have access to proven advances while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Medicare also serves as a testing ground for healthcare innovations that benefit the entire system. Successful Medicare initiatives often expand to other insurance programs, amplifying their positive impact across American healthcare. Medicare stands as proof that ambitious social programs can deliver transformative results while evolving to meet modern healthcare needs. From its early focus on basic hospital coverage to today's comprehensive benefits—including preventive care, prescription drugs, and innovative care delivery models—Medicare has consistently improved quality of life for millions. For Ohio residents exploring options through resources like My Medicare Ohio, the program offers not only reliable healthcare coverage but also entry into one of America's most successful social achievements. Medicare safeguards health, fosters innovation, and enables healthy, independent aging that previous generations could only imagine. Its enduring success demonstrates how well-designed public programs can adapt, thrive, and serve future generations, ensuring healthcare security remains a cornerstone of American life. TIME BUSINESS NEWS

I'm a microplastics expert — 3 ways I reduce exposure, including only buying these types of clothes
I'm a microplastics expert — 3 ways I reduce exposure, including only buying these types of clothes

New York Post

time5 hours ago

  • New York Post

I'm a microplastics expert — 3 ways I reduce exposure, including only buying these types of clothes

Wash — and learn. 'The next time you're using a tumble dryer, take a look at the lint catcher,' materials scientist Joshua Grolman told The Post. 'All of this debris is what we breathe in on a daily basis.' Microplastics are ubiquitous, found in everything from toys and cosmetics to cleaning products and clothing. They're in the air we breathe, the food we eat and the water we drink and swim in. 5 Materials scientist Joshua Grolman reveals three ways that he limits exposure to microplastics. Israel Institute of Technology These particles, which slough off larger plastic, are suspected to harm reproductive, digestive and respiratory health, potentially leading to infertility, colon cancer and lung problems. Scientists are still determining the effects that these shreds, smaller than a grain of rice, have on the environment and our bodies. That's why minimizing exposure is so important. Grolman reveals three ways that he limits contact with microplastics at home and work. Choose clothing wisely Synthetic clothing — made from materials like polyester, nylon and acrylic — is a significant source of microplastic pollution. Fibers are shed during manufacturing, wear and especially during washing. 5 Natural fibers, such as cotton, wool, linen and hemp, are derived from plants or animals and are biodegradable. The clothes seen here are made from vegetable ingredients. uladzimirzuyeu – 'I only buy wool, linen and hemp clothing for my family because they perform better than synthetic fibers to wick away sweat in the heat,' shared Grolman, an assistant professor of materials science and engineering at the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology. 'While they are often more expensive than their synthetic counterparts, it's important to focus on quality over quantity when purchasing the clothes you wear every day.' Natural fibers, such as cotton, wool, linen and hemp, are derived from plants or animals and are biodegradable. That means they naturally break down at the end of their life cycle and return to the earth. Whichever fabric you select, Grolman recommends hanging clothes to dry to increase their durability. Avoid disposable plastic products Americans order takeout or delivery an average of 4.5 times a month, according to 2023 survey data from US Foods. 5 Disposable cutlery is a major source of microplastic contamination. Tatiana Atamaniuk – Unfortunately, carryout containers can release microplastics into food, especially when microwaved or reused several times. And beware the disposable cutlery that often accompanies a takeout meal. Grolman eschews these utensils since they are often made from low-quality plastics that break or chip easily. 'It doesn't take up much room in your backpack or briefcase to carry a titanium or stainless steel utensil set packed away in a sleeve,' he said. 'I simply wipe the utensils with a napkin after eating and then wash them each night when I get home.' He also suggests carrying a stainless steel water bottle that can be filled at cafés instead of getting a to-go cup. 'Most disposable coffee cups are made of paper coated with a thin film of plastic on the inside,' he explained. 'As you've probably noticed, this film can come off with little abrasion, especially if you have hot liquid sitting in there for a long time.' 5 Stainless steel doesn't typically leach microplastics. It's a top choice for reusable water bottles. Dmytro – Grolman also avoids canned beverages, which contain a thin plastic or polymer liner on the inside to prevent the drink from reacting with the aluminum. This lining can break down and release microplastics, especially if the liquid is acidic. Drive less Car tires, especially those on heavier vehicles, produce a lot of microplastics as they wear down from everyday use. Grolman prefers to commute by bike. 'A common misconception is that biking outside exposes you to more pollution than driving in a car,' he said. 'However, when you're in bumper-to-bumper traffic, the air intake of your car is right next to the tail pipe of the car in front of you, and it's usually low to the road where tire abrasion occurs.' 5 Cycling instead of driving to work can reduce your microplastics exposure and your carbon footprint. Halfpoint – Other advantages of cycling include increased physical activity, fuel savings and a lower carbon footprint. Over 705,000 Americans primarily bike to work, according to US Census estimates. That number is on an upswing but still below the 2014 peak of 904,000 bike commuters. While it may not be practical to bike all the time, Grolman advises 'keeping an open mind' about alternatives to cars. And if you must get behind the wheel, try to curb drive time. 'If I have to drive somewhere,' Grolman said, 'I always make an effort to limit the amount of time I spend on roads with heavy car traffic.'

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store