Experts across the political spectrum have questioned how much society should be willing to pay for new and expensive treatments, especially if another treatment exists with a proven track record. Although it often escapes policymakers, the heart of this debate should be medical efficacy. For both the new treatment and the old, do they work? How … Continue reading
“I looked at that menu, and I just couldn’t control myself!” How many times have you walked into a restaurant planning to order a salad but instead got a whopping 2,000 calorie steak meal? We’ve all faced shortages of self-control, trading in short-term gain for long-term strain. Choosing the inferior food option is only one … Continue reading
The graying of America is not a new fear for economists and politicians. Before even the earliest Baby Boomers began retiring, economists were making predictions about the hardships America would undoubtedly face as it aged. Many say those problems have already begun, while others argue they have been over exaggerated and prematurely predicted. The American … Continue reading
Slowing the biological aging process (senescence) is now a realistic goal. According to a new research study published in Health Affairs, the elimination of diseases such as cancer and heart disease would have less effect on longevity and quality of life than delaying aging itself. Although most medical research remains focused on combating individual diseases, … Continue reading
The recent debates on retirement policy are anything but productive. The main points revolve around the rising debt and health care costs, as well as increasing the retirement age. While these concerns are important, retirement policy in the United States (and in the world) needs another look. More and more people are living to the … Continue reading
Long-term care is a real concern facing America today. Individuals live longer and are facing more chronic illnesses requiring constant care. Yet untrained and unpaid family members provide most long-term care for their loved ones. A recent article published Reuters revealed that four out of ten adults are caring for an elderly family member. It … Continue reading
The implications of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) for small businesses and employment status have long been the subject of media and partisan scrutiny. Analyses of these implications are becoming increasingly relevant, as the measures of the ACA will be fully implemented by January 2014. The shortcomings of the pre-Obamacare health insurance market are well … Continue reading
