Latest news with #DHA
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Tricare errors put military families at risk of paying higher costs, audit finds
Tricare, the federal health-insurance program for military service members and their families, and the Defense Health Agency that governs it, put beneficiaries at risk of paying much higher costs due to a lack of internal controls, according to an audit conducted by the Department of Justice. The audit by the Inspector General reviewed financial records across both Tricare's East and West regions (which includes all 50 states) from November 2023 to February 2025, found that policy did not require federal officials or the company to ensure that rates for services or equipment that don't already have a defined reimbursement rate were 'reasonable or consistent with other states,' and contractors did not have guidance on how to create new rates. This caused a contractor in Illinois to pay $11,500 for custom sleep apnea mouth guards, a price 283% higher than the cost in neighboring Iowa, according to the audit report. The DHA also allowed rental costs for medical items to far exceed the cost of purchasing, resulting in a contractor paying Tricare $5,000 per month to rent one of two compression devices while the same product was available to rent for $675 per month and another supplier was selling one for $409.50. Virginia is among the states with higher rental rates than purchasing costs. For a particular compression device, the rental cost per month in Virginia was $4,680 compared to $3,450 to buy it, a 35.7% difference. Connecticut had the highest difference at 100.2%, according to the audit. In fiscal year 2023, Tricare contractors paid a total of $183 million for items or services that didn't have a defined reimbursement rate. It's unclear how much of that total is considered 'unreasonable' and how much additional financial burden was passed on to beneficiaries. 'Because the DHA did not determine that the state prevailing rates were reasonable, the DoD is at risk of wasteful spending and increasing DoD beneficiaries' risk of unreasonable cost-shares for health care services and items that are paid with state prevailing rates,' the audit concludes. State prevailing rates are established by taking all the billed charges for a service or item in the previous year and separating them by state. The state prevailing rate is then set at the 80th percentile of the charges for that service or item in each state. The amount the DHA has reimbursed providers for all health care services and items has decreased by 16% since fiscal year 2021 as a result of measures taken in response to prior DOD reviews, according to the audit. The federal agency issued a policy in July that allows contractors to set payment thresholds to 'prevent reimbursement substantially in excess of customary or reasonable charges.' The Inspector General recommends that the DHA reassess and revise the state prevailing rates in Tricare's policy to ensure rates are 'reasonable,' develop and issue guidance to require an independent party to review the state prevailing rates annually, and implement an oversight mechanism. DHA has hired a company to monitor the accuracy of payments made by Tricare contractors. In 2022 and 2023, this company found that Tricare had a quarterly error rate of 0.31% or less and 0.4% or less, respectively, across both the East and West regions. These error rates are lower than Tricare's own maximum allowable error rate of 1.75%. A Tricare spokesperson did not respond to an emailed question about how soon beneficiaries might see a change in costs.
NDTV
2 days ago
- Health
- NDTV
Consume Fish Oil Supplements Right Away To Achieve These Benefits
Fish oil supplements are dietary products derived from the tissues of oily fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines, and anchovies. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, primarily EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), which are essential fats the body can't produce on its own. These omega-3s play a crucial role in brain function, heart health, inflammation control, and cellular repair. Yes, fish oil supplements can significantly boost health when taken in the right dosage, as they help maintain various body functions, support mental and physical wellness, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. In this article, we share a list of ways in which taking fish oil supplements can boost your health. 10 Health benefits of consuming fish oil supplements Fish oil helps lower triglyceride levels, reduce blood pressure, and prevent plaque buildup in arteries. EPA and DHA improve overall heart function, reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke, especially in people with cardiovascular risk factors. 2. Reduces inflammation Omega-3s in fish oil have powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Regular intake can help reduce chronic inflammation, which is linked to diseases like arthritis, diabetes, and certain cancers. 3. Improves brain function DHA is a major structural component of the brain. Fish oil supports memory, learning, and overall cognitive health. It may also slow age-related cognitive decline and support brain development in infants and children. 4. Enhances mood and mental health Fish oil has shown benefits in managing depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. EPA, in particular, has mood-stabilising effects and can enhance the effectiveness of antidepressants when taken together. 5. Promotes eye health DHA is also found in high concentrations in the retina. Fish oil supplementation can help prevent dry eyes, improve vision, and reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration. 6. Supports healthy skin Omega-3s help maintain skin hydration, elasticity, and overall texture. They can also reduce acne, eczema symptoms, and sun damage by supporting the skin's natural barrier. 7. Improves joint health Fish oil can help relieve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, including joint stiffness and pain. Its anti-inflammatory effects support joint flexibility and reduce swelling. 8. Boosts immune function Regular intake of fish oil supports a balanced immune response and may enhance the body's defence against infections. It can also help modulate overactive immune reactions in autoimmune diseases. 9. Supports pregnancy and early development DHA is critical for the development of a baby's brain, eyes, and nervous system. Fish oil during pregnancy can improve cognitive outcomes in children and reduce the risk of allergies. 10. Helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels While fish oil doesn't lower LDL (bad cholesterol) much, it raises HDL (good cholesterol) and lowers triglycerides, improving the overall lipid profile and reducing cardiovascular risk. It's important to choose high-quality supplements and consult a healthcare provider before starting them regularly. Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
News18
3 days ago
- Health
- News18
Omega-3 for Your Teen's Brain: What Indian Parents Should Know
Last Updated: With the right nutritional support and lifestyle, your teen can harness the full cognitive and emotional benefits omega-3 has to offer With insights from Karan Khurana, Health Expert, Wish New Wellness, and Dr. Rajesh Kumar, Associate Director, Internal Medicine, Paras Health, Gurugram Adolescence is a time of rapid brain growth and emotional changes—making optimal nutrition essential. Among the key nutrients, omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA and EPA, play a central role in supporting cognitive development, memory, attention, and mood regulation. Why Omega-3 Matters in the Teen Years 'During adolescence, DHA accounts for 10–20% of brain lipids," explains Karan Khurana. 'Adequate omega-3 intake boosts information processing speed, enhances memory performance, and may help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety." Dr. Rajesh Kumar adds, 'Omega-3s also support eye health and modulate inflammation—benefits that extend beyond cognition to overall teenage well-being." How Much Is Enough? For Indian teens, dosage should reflect dietary habits: Ages 13–15:** \~1,000 mg EPA + DHA daily Ages 16–19:** Up to 1,500 mg EPA + DHA daily 'These amounts remain safely below the 3,000 mg upper limit for teenagers," notes Khurana. Take supplements with meals to enhance absorption and minimize digestive discomfort. Regional diets also matter. 'Non-coastal teens often consume less fish than those in Kerala or West Bengal, so may benefit more from supplementation," points out Dr. Kumar. Choosing and Using Supplements Safely 'Always opt for high-quality, mercury-tested fish oil or certified vegan omega-3 products," advises Dr. Kumar. 'And consult a healthcare provider before starting any regimen—excessive intake can cause gastrointestinal upset or affect blood clotting." Beyond Supplements: A Holistic Approach Both experts agree that omega-3 supplements should complement not replace, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and healthy sleep habits. With the right nutritional support and lifestyle, your teen can harness the full cognitive and emotional benefits omega-3 has to offer.
Scoop
7 days ago
- Health
- Scoop
Budget 2025: A Missed Opportunity To Build A Stronger, Smarter Health System
Press Release – Digital Health Association Digital and physical infrastructure go hand-in-hand, Jensen says. A new hospital building is only as effective as the systems that support it. If we get this right, well build not just for todays needsbut for tomorrows opportunities. The Digital Health Association (DHA) believes Budget 2025 offers some encouraging steps but falls short of delivering the bold, strategic investment needed to modernise New Zealand's health system and unlock the full potential of digital innovation. While we welcome targeted funding for 24/7 telehealth services, mental health response tools, PHARMAC's digital systems, and digital infrastructure for the new Dunedin Hospital, these initiatives remain isolated. What's still missing is a joined-up, long-term digital health investment strategy that connects the dots across the system. 'Digital health is no longer a future aspiration—it's the foundation of modern care,' says Ryl Jensen, CEO of the Digital Health Association. 'We're encouraged by some of the budget commitments, but there's a real opportunity here to go further. Our health system is at a crossroads. We can either continue to make incremental, patchwork changes, or we can take a bold step toward a connected, responsive health future.' The DHA has long advocated for a national digital health strategy that ensures sustainable funding, strong system governance, and patient-centred data access. The reprioritisation of $380 million in funding last year—and a further $100 million reduction mid-year—left a significant gap in momentum. But the sector remains committed to being part of the solution. 'This is not about chasing headlines; it's about doing the groundwork for a safer, smarter health system,' says Jensen. 'Digital investment may not always be visible to the public, but its impact is—every time a doctor accesses the right information in time, every time a patient avoids repeating their story, every time care is coordinated across settings.' Today, the DHA met with Health Minister Simeon Brown to discuss the path ahead. The Minister acknowledged the essential role digital plays in delivering effective care and reaffirmed his commitment to strong digital governance and infrastructure. The Minister also noted the importance of the upcoming Digital Infrastructure Plan and the potential for a new health infrastructure entity—something the DHA believes must have digital embedded from day one. 'Digital and physical infrastructure go hand-in-hand,' Jensen says. 'A new hospital building is only as effective as the systems that support it. If we get this right, we'll build not just for today's needs—but for tomorrow's opportunities.' Other countries are showing what's possible. Australia continues to scale its digital investments. The UK allocates 8% of its health budget to digital. New Zealand currently sits at just 2.2%. 'We don't need to reinvent the wheel—we need to be willing to invest in it,' says Jensen. 'Young clinicians are telling us they hope to see integrated, supportive systems in their working lifetime. That's not just a tech challenge—it's a workforce and wellbeing issue.' The DHA recently provided Minister Brown with five strategic recommendations to strengthen digital health delivery and outcomes across the system. As the peak body for digital health in New Zealand, the Association is committed to working alongside Government to turn these ideas into action. 'The message is simple: we're not just calling for change—we're offering to help build it,' says Jensen. 'Let's move from patching to planning, from delays to delivery. It's time to design a digital health system that works for everyone—patients, clinicians, and the communities they serve.'
Scoop
7 days ago
- Health
- Scoop
Budget 2025: A Missed Opportunity To Build A Stronger, Smarter Health System
The Digital Health Association (DHA) believes Budget 2025 offers some encouraging steps but falls short of delivering the bold, strategic investment needed to modernise New Zealand's health system and unlock the full potential of digital innovation. While we welcome targeted funding for 24/7 telehealth services, mental health response tools, PHARMAC's digital systems, and digital infrastructure for the new Dunedin Hospital, these initiatives remain isolated. What's still missing is a joined-up, long-term digital health investment strategy that connects the dots across the system. 'Digital health is no longer a future aspiration—it's the foundation of modern care,' says Ryl Jensen, CEO of the Digital Health Association. 'We're encouraged by some of the budget commitments, but there's a real opportunity here to go further. Our health system is at a crossroads. We can either continue to make incremental, patchwork changes, or we can take a bold step toward a connected, responsive health future.' The DHA has long advocated for a national digital health strategy that ensures sustainable funding, strong system governance, and patient-centred data access. The reprioritisation of $380 million in funding last year—and a further $100 million reduction mid-year—left a significant gap in momentum. But the sector remains committed to being part of the solution. 'This is not about chasing headlines; it's about doing the groundwork for a safer, smarter health system,' says Jensen. 'Digital investment may not always be visible to the public, but its impact is—every time a doctor accesses the right information in time, every time a patient avoids repeating their story, every time care is coordinated across settings.' Today, the DHA met with Health Minister Simeon Brown to discuss the path ahead. The Minister acknowledged the essential role digital plays in delivering effective care and reaffirmed his commitment to strong digital governance and infrastructure. The Minister also noted the importance of the upcoming Digital Infrastructure Plan and the potential for a new health infrastructure entity—something the DHA believes must have digital embedded from day one. 'Digital and physical infrastructure go hand-in-hand,' Jensen says. 'A new hospital building is only as effective as the systems that support it. If we get this right, we'll build not just for today's needs—but for tomorrow's opportunities.' Other countries are showing what's possible. Australia continues to scale its digital investments. The UK allocates 8% of its health budget to digital. New Zealand currently sits at just 2.2%. 'We don't need to reinvent the wheel—we need to be willing to invest in it,' says Jensen. 'Young clinicians are telling us they hope to see integrated, supportive systems in their working lifetime. That's not just a tech challenge—it's a workforce and wellbeing issue.' The DHA recently provided Minister Brown with five strategic recommendations to strengthen digital health delivery and outcomes across the system. As the peak body for digital health in New Zealand, the Association is committed to working alongside Government to turn these ideas into action. 'The message is simple: we're not just calling for change—we're offering to help build it,' says Jensen. 'Let's move from patching to planning, from delays to delivery. It's time to design a digital health system that works for everyone—patients, clinicians, and the communities they serve.'
