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NZ Herald
12 hours ago
- Health
- NZ Herald
Wild bat encounter leaves woman with $35K medical bill after insurance missteps
She screamed, and part of the bat went into her mouth. She doesn't know which part or for how long, though she estimates it was for only a few seconds. 'It seemed longer,' she said. The bat flew away, leaving Kahn shaken. She didn't think the animal had bitten her. Regardless, her father, who is a physician and was travelling with her, said she should go to a hospital within a day or so and begin vaccinations against rabies. Figuring she would be covered as long as she obtained insurance before going to the hospital, Kahn said, she found a policy online the day after the bat incident. She said she called the company before she bought its policy and was told that services related to an accident or 'life-threatening' emergency would be covered. Kahn went the next day to a hospital in Flagstaff, Arizona, where she started rabies prevention treatment. Over the next two weeks, she received the rest of the rabies shots at clinics in Arizona and Massachusetts and at a hospital in Colorado. Then the bills came. The medical procedure Kahn received a total of four doses of the rabies vaccine. The doses are administered over the course of 14 days. With her first vaccination, she received three shots of immunoglobulin, which boosts antibodies against the virus. Rabies is typically transmitted through bites or scratches from an infected animal. Experts recommend precautionary measures when a person has been potentially exposed to rabies, because once the neurological disease causes symptoms, it is fatal. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention says post-exposure rabies treatment has reduced the number of human fatalities to fewer than 10 per year in the US. The final bill According to explanation-of-benefits statements, Kahn owed a total of US$20,749 ($35,216) for her care at the four facilities. Most of the charges were from the hospital where she was first treated, Flagstaff Medical Centre: $17,079, including $15,242 for the rabies and immunoglobulin shots. Flagstaff Medical Centre where Kahn's insurance policy didn't cover the costs due to a waiting period not being met. The billing problem Kahn's policy did not pay for any of the services. 'The required waiting period for this service has not been met,' said an explanation-of-benefits letter she received in December. Kahn was stunned. 'I thought it must have been a mistake,' she said. 'I guess I was naive.' When Kahn was laid off from her job as a biomedical engineer last summer, she had the option to temporarily stay on her former employer's insurance under a Cobra plan, at a cost of about US$650 per month. As a young, healthy person, she gambled that she could get by without insurance until she found another job. She figured that if she needed medical care, she could quickly buy a private policy. According to the Centres for Medicare and Medicaid Services, those who qualify for Cobra must be given at least 60 days to sign up – and if they do, the coverage applies retroactively. Kahn, who was still within that period at the time of the incident, said recently that she did not realise she had that option. The policy she purchased after the bat episode, which cost about US$311 a month, was from a Florida company called Innovative Partners LP. Documents Kahn provided to KFF Health News say the policy has a 30-day waiting period, which 'does not apply to benefits regarding an accident or loss of life'. Kahn said that after receiving notice that her claims were denied, she called the company to ask how she could appeal and was told that a doctor would have to file paperwork. She said she wrote a letter that was signed by a doctor at Flagstaff Medical Centre and submitted it in March but was unable to reach doctors at the other facilities. Kahn said she was given conflicting answers about where to send the paperwork. She said a representative with the company recently told her that it had not received any appeals from her. Benefits statements Kahn received in early July show Innovative Partners LP had not paid the claims. The company did not respond to requests for comment. Sabrina Corlette, co-director of the Centre on Health Insurance Reforms at Georgetown University, said most health coverage plans take effect on the first day of the month after a customer enrols. 'The insurance companies – for good reason – don't want people to wait to sign up for coverage until they are sick,' she said, noting the premiums healthy people pay help balance the costs of paying for healthcare. The Affordable Care Act requires insurers to cover pre-existing conditions, such as diabetes or heart issues. But that doesn't mean they have to pay for treatment of an injury sustained shortly before a person enrols in coverage, she said. Corlette, who reviewed a brief benefits overview provided by Kahn, said the policy appears to have been a limited, 'fixed indemnity' plan, which would pay only set amounts towards treatments per day or another period regardless of total expenses incurred. Such plans have been around for decades and aren't required to meet ACA standards, she said. But she said even if Kahn had bought comprehensive health insurance, it probably wouldn't have covered treatment received so soon after she had purchased it. David Shlim, a travel medicine specialist in Wyoming who studies rabies, said Kahn made the right choice by promptly seeking treatment, even though she didn't feel the bat bite her. The disease is deadly, and the fact that the bat went into her mouth meant she could have been infected from its saliva, he said: 'You could hardly have a more direct exposure than that.' Shlim, who recently co-wrote a federal advisory about rabies prevention, added that healthy bats don't normally fly into people, as the one in this case did. The animal's entanglement with Kahn suggests that it could have been sick, possibly with rabies, he said. Rabies prevention treatment is much more expensive in the US than in most other countries, Shlim said. The priciest part is immunoglobulin, which is made from the blood plasma of people who have been vaccinated against rabies. The treatment is often administered in hospital emergency rooms, which add their own steep charges, Shlim noted. Kahn's bat incident shines a spotlight on insurance pitfalls. The resolution Kahn said she is employed again and has good health insurance but is still facing most of the bills from her misadventure at Glen Canyon. She said she paid a doctor bill from Flagstaff Medical Centre after negotiating it down from US$706 to US$420. She said she has also arranged a US$10-a-month plan to pay off the US$530 she owes for one of her rabies shots at another facility. She said she plans to continue appealing the denials of payment for the rest of the bills, which total more than US$19,000. In a statement on behalf of the Flagstaff hospital – where Kahn incurred the highest charges – Lauren Silverstein, a spokesperson at Northern Arizona Healthcare, said that the health system does what it can to limit costs. 'We have less ability to control the prices of critical supplies that we use to treat patients, including pharmaceuticals, biologics, diagnostics, and medical devices made by other companies,' she said. Silverstein said the hospital needs to keep immunoglobulin on hand to prevent rabies, even though such cases are relatively rare and the drug is expensive. The takeaway Cobra insurance policies, named for the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985, enable many people who lose job-based coverage to pay to stay on those plans temporarily. There is a 60-day window to choose Cobra coverage, and once a beneficiary pays for it, the coverage applies retroactively – meaning that medical care is covered even if it occurred when the person was uninsured. Corlette said Kahn's predicament illustrates why people need to make sure they have health insurance. She said people who lose employer-based coverage should consider enrolling in individual insurance plans sold on federal or state marketplaces. Many people who buy such policies qualify for substantial ACA subsidies to help pay premiums and other costs. 'If you are losing your job, Cobra is not your only option,' Corlette said. Kahn wishes she had signed up for insurance coverage when she was laid off, even though she felt confident that she would find another job within a few months. 'That's a very big lesson I learned the hard way,' she said. Her wildlife encounter did not destroy her love of the outdoors. She even sees humour in it. 'I know what bats taste like now. It's an earthy, sweet kind of flavour,' she joked. 'It's actually a pretty funny story – if it weren't for the horrible medical bill that came with it.'
Daily Mirror
18-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Royal Caribbean cruise horror as mystery virus outbreak leaves 140 passengers vomiting
More than 140 people on a Royal Caribbean cruise suffered with the mystery illness, with passengers and crew experiencing vomiting, cramps and diarrhoea onboard Navigator of the Seas A luxury cruise turned into a nightmare after a mystery illness impacted more than 140 people. A total of 134 passengers and seven crew members onboard the Royal Caribbean ship Navigator of the Seas reported grim symptoms including stomach cramps, diarrhoea and vomiting, according to the US-based Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It is not clear what caused the outbreak on the cruise, which took passengers from Los Angeles in the US to Mexico and ended on July 11. The CDC said extra cleaning measures had been put in place by Royal Caribbean and those affected had been isolated. 'The health and safety of our guests, crew, and the communities we visit are our top priority,' a spokesperson for parent company Royal Caribbean Group told USA Today. 'To maintain an environment that supports the highest levels of health and safety onboard our ships, we implement rigorous cleaning procedures, many of which far exceed public health guidelines.' So far in 2025, 18 gastrointestinal illness outbreaks on cruise ships have reached a CDC threshold for public notification. There were 18 in the whole of 2024 and 14 in 2023. Most cases are linked to norovirus, which can cause diarrhoea, vomiting, body aches including stomach pains, a headache and high temperature. It usually gets better in around two to three days. This comes after an industry expert said small ship cruise lines may stop putting close-up images of polar bears in brochures because of new restrictions in Norway. Akvile Marozaite, chief executive of UK-based global representative body Expedition Cruise Network, said limits on how close ships can get to the animals means the sector must change 'how we communicate' with travellers. Polar bears are a key draw for people embarking on sailings to Norwegian-ruled archipelago Svalbard, as they can be observed in their natural Arctic habit. But concerns about interference from humans means the government has banned ships in the region from being closer than 500 metres from the animals. Ms Marozaite said the sector is partly paying the price for 'always talking about polar bears' in relation to Svalbard trips. She told the PA news agency: 'Of course they are something that people want to see, but expedition cruising to Svalbard is actually an incredible opportunity to experience a lot of other things about the is incredible human history, beautiful scenery, other species of wildlife.' Ms Marozaite said cruise lines are continuing to show their guests polar bears, some by sailing closer to Greenland. The impact of Norway's distance rule is 'more to do with how we communicate', she said. 'The communication around Arctic voyages is going to change. Companies hopefully will no longer be putting close-up images of polar bears on the brochure. 'That's a good thing, because finally we will start talking about the destination the way it should be talked about.' But expedition leader and photographer Paul Goldstein criticised the new regulations. He told The Independent's travel podcast: 'This is a classic example of what I term 'conservation fascism'. I have led small ship charters in the region since 2004. 'Never once have I seen a single incident where tourists intimidate or affect the behaviour of polar bears.' He added that if a camera lens 'the size of a Stinger missile' is required to see polar bears then most visitors will miss out. Norway's minister of climate and environment Andreas Bjelland Erikse previously said the rules are necessary as climate change is 'leading to more difficult conditions for polar bears on Svalbard'. He went on: 'It is important for them to be able to search for food, hunt, rest and take care of their cubs without interference from humans. 'That is why we must keep a good distance.' The minimum distance will be reduced to 300 metres from July 1. The Norwegian government said visitors to Svalbard have 'a duty to retreat to a legal distance' if they encounter a polar bear that is too close. Ships are also banned from carrying more than 200 passengers in the region.
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First Post
17-07-2025
- Health
- First Post
Measles creates panic across Americas & Europe, India sends 300,000 vaccine doses to Bolivia
Until last week, there were 98 active cases of measles in Bolivia as the country's government launched a door-to-door vaccination drive to curb the spread of the disease read more India dispatched 300,000 doses of measles and rubella vaccine to Bolivia on Thursday as cases rise exponentially in the South American country. A measles outbreak is also rampant in the US and Europe. 'India dispatched a consignment of 300,000 doses of Measles & Rubella vaccines alongwith ancillary supplies to support Bolivia in managing the outbreak of the disease,' MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said. India dispatched a consignment of 300,000 doses of Measles & Rubella vaccines alongwith ancillary supplies to support Bolivia in managing the outbreak of the disease. India stands by its friends in the Global South. 🇮🇳 🇧🇴 — Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) July 17, 2025 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Measles in Bolivia Until last week, there were 98 active cases of measles in Bolivia as the country's government launched a door-to-door vaccination drive to curb the spread of the disease. Health Minister María Renée Castro emphasised the urgency of the situation, stating that most infections were affecting children who had not received one or both doses of the immuniser. She urged parents to ensure their children are fully vaccinated. 'Only two doses are needed to protect our children!' she stressed. 'We are working intensively in municipalities and departments, activating mobile vaccination brigades and early case detection,' she added. Measles in the US and Europe The US is currently witnessing its worst year of measles outbreak since 1992, as the country has recorded 1,288 cases so far, the highest in three decades, according to the latest figures from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). More than two-thirds of states have reported at least one case, with 27 outbreaks (three or more related cases) identified nationwide. Three deaths have occurred, two unvaccinated children in Texas and one adult in New Mexico, with dozens hospitalised. Similarly, the disease is spreading at an alarming rate in Europe, with at least one child dying last week in the UK's Liverpool. Measles cases in the WHO's 53-country European region, which also includes nations in Central Asia, jumped from 60,756 in 2023 to 148,974 last year, according to data released Tuesday by the UN's global health agency. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
Mint
13-07-2025
- Health
- Mint
Endocrinologist shares 10 daily habits that increase cortisol and affect metabolism
When it comes to metabolism, many of us overlook the silent influencers in our daily routines. The truth is, everyday habits can significantly elevate cortisol levels, impacting our metabolism and overall health. Stress, in manageable doses, can propel us through life's challenges. However, chronic stress—lasting weeks or months—takes a toll on our bodies, primarily through the hormone cortisol. This hormone, released during stressful moments, triggers the liver to release more glucose into the bloodstream for quick energy. In situations of immediate danger, this response is lifesaving. However, in the modern world, where stress often stems from deadlines or financial concerns, that energy frequently goes unused. As a result, blood sugar levels rise, and the body compensates by producing more insulin, according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. While this may seem harmless, persistent insulin elevation can lead to insulin resistance. This condition not only raises the risk of type 2 diabetes but is also associated with weight gain, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and fatty liver disease. Moreover, elevated cortisol levels encourage fat storage, particularly around the abdomen, known as visceral fat, which poses significant risks to cardiovascular health, as reported in the Archives of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. The manifestations of chronic stress infiltrate our daily habits, leading to erratic sleep patterns, heightened cravings for unhealthy foods, and skipped exercise routines. This creates a vicious cycle that perpetuates high cortisol levels and strains our metabolic system, according to the journal Diseases. Dr Vrinda Agrawal, a Consultant Endocrinologist at CARE Hospitals, highlights that managing stress is essential, not just for emotional well-being, but for efficient metabolic function. Inconsistent sleep patterns Lack of regular sleep—even if you manage just seven hours a night—can spike cortisol levels and disrupt metabolic balance. Struggling to maintain an exercise routine? Skipping physical activity contributes to higher cortisol levels and the accumulation of abdominal fat, according to the National Library of Medicine. Consuming too much caffeine, particularly late in the day, can interfere with your sleep quality, thereby further heightening stress and cortisol levels, as reported in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine. Irregular eating patterns can disrupt insulin levels and glycogen storage, negatively affecting metabolism, as reported in the Reproductive Toxicology Journal. Heightened cravings for sugary or salty foods can lead to unhealthy eating habits that keep blood sugar and cortisol levels high, according to Harvard Health. Spending excessive time on screens, whether at work or during leisure time, promotes a sedentary lifestyle and negatively impacts stress levels, potentially leading to metabolic issues, as reported in the Korean Journal of Family Medicine. Neglecting to incorporate moments of calm—such as deep breathing or meditation—can help prevent stress from accumulating in your body. Failing to recognise and address chronic stress can lead to persistent high cortisol levels, affecting your weight and energy levels, according to the International Journal of Preventive Medicine. Failing to monitor your health can delay diagnoses of potential metabolic issues associated with high cortisol levels. A diet high in processed foods and low in fibre can exacerbate metabolic dysfunction, leading to weight gain, as reported in Frontiers in Endocrinology. To counter these effects, enabling consistent, health-oriented habits is crucial. Prioritise regular sleep, gentle daily physical activity, and mindful moments to help you decompress. Simple lifestyle changes can have a significant impact on regulating your metabolism and overall health, according to the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine. By understanding these connections and taking proactive steps, you can better manage your cortisol levels and promote a healthier metabolic response to the stresses of everyday life.
New Straits Times
10-07-2025
- Health
- New Straits Times
Sarawak takes proactive steps to tackle zoonotic, tropical diseases
SIBU: The spread of zoonotic and neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) remains a major global health threat, and Sarawak is taking proactive steps to address the issue, said Deputy Premier and Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian. Speaking after launching the 2nd Asia-Pacific Conference on Zoonotic and Neglected Tropical Diseases 2025 here today, Dr Sim said diseases passed from animals to humans, such as HIV and Covid-19, have shown how dangerous zoonoses can be. "This is an important programme, and I'm proud it started in Sibu. This is our second time hosting it, and it's held every two years. Zoonotic and tropical diseases are serious issues that demand continued attention and investment," he told reporters. Dr Sim noted that tropical diseases like malaria and dengue are still common in Sarawak, with new strains continuing to emerge. "In Sarawak, we've seen Plasmodium knowlesi — a type of malaria that comes from monkeys. This shows that animal-to-human transmission will become more frequent. Covid-19 won't be the last pandemic. We must be prepared," he said. He highlighted Sarawak's forward-thinking move to build its own Infectious Disease Centre in Samarahan, with over RM200 million allocated for the project. "Some say our people are poor, but that doesn't mean we should wait for the next pandemic to take action. We're investing not just in money, but in training, labs and infrastructure," he said. Dr Sim also shared his experience visiting the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta last year, where he sought international cooperation to help train Sarawak's health professionals. "I told them we need their support and expertise," he said. On rabies, Dr Sim stressed the need for greater public responsibility, especially when it comes to vaccinating pets in urban areas — where response has been poor despite free vaccination campaigns. "Rabies can be eliminated. The World Health Organisation aims to eradicate it by 2030 — but it won't happen on its own. Everyone must play a role. Pet owners must be responsible. It's not just up to the government to go door to door," he said. He pointed out that while 80 per cent of dogs in border areas have been vaccinated, urban pet owners have been less cooperative, creating ongoing risks. "Even scratches from infected cats can spread rabies. Public awareness needs to go beyond just dog bites," he said, calling for collective action to stop the disease. Dr Sim concluded by emphasising that the conference is not just for health professionals, but for all parties — including the public, to build resilience against future disease outbreaks. "Whether you're a scientist, doctor, nurse, policymaker or member of the public, we all have a role to play," he said. The two-day Asia-Pacific Conference, which began today, serves as a platform for experts and policymakers to share knowledge, build networks and foster regional cooperation in tackling infectious diseases. — BERNAMA
