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Global private medical insurance provider ALC Health has announced the appointment of Stephen Godbold as the company’s new Managing Director, taking over from founder Sarah Jewell who moves into the role of Group CEO.
With a career of over 35 years across the insurance sector, Stephen has held a number of high level appointments most recently as Chief Operating Officer at Lorica Insurance Brokers where he was responsible for managing both operational and technical matters across a variety of platforms.
Joining ALC Health at a time of continued growth, Stephen will lead the development of the company’s new IT infrastructure, customer service delivery and compliance management.
Sarah Jewell, Founder and CEO comments :
“As the company continues to enjoy record growth, the importance of ensuring that our members and distribution partners continue to receive the very best customer service and support remains our number one priority.
Stephen joins an already experienced management team and brings with him an additional skill sets that will help ALC Health continue to grow as a specialist boutique iPMI provider with a reputation for delivery excellence”.
After health successes in 2013 such as the Million Hearts programme aiming to prevent 1 million heart attacks and strokes by 2017, and a successful nationwide anti-smoking ad campaign, the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified five health threats going into 2014.
Each year in the USA more than two million people contract antibiotic resistant infections with 23,000 dying as a result, according to CDC figures. These infections are particularly dangerous for those with compromised immune systems, including those with cancer, kidney failure or people with transplanted organs.
The CDC has identified four steps to combat antibiotic resistance, and in 2014 will work closely with local authorities to improve antibiotic use and track the spread of resistant infections.
The CDC is making disease detection a priority at home and abroad in 2014. Only one in five countries has the technology to detect and fight emerging infections, says the CDC’s director Dr Tom Frieden.
In 2013, the CDC identified the new Heartland virus, carried by ticks, in northwest Missouri. They also helped public health officials in the Republic of Georgia isolate a new disease related to smallpox, which was infecting shepherds in the country, writes Expathealth.org
Diseases thought to be eradicated in the US have made a comeback thanks to lower immunisation rates, and the spread of global travel. In 2013, measles cases doubled to 175, almost all linked to foreign travel.
Disease can spread anywhere in the world within 24 hours, said Frieden. Prevention of many, like measles, only works if the majority of the population are vaccinated. The CDC is working with state health departments and colleagues around the world to promote immunisation programmes for polio, measles and other preventable diseases.
The CDC reports deaths from prescription painkillers have reached “epidemic levels” over the last decade, with more than 16,500 people killed by painkiller overdoses in 2010. The annual number of deaths from these drugs exceeds the number from heroin and cocaine combined.
In 2014 the CDC will continue working to prevent the overdose, misuse, and abuse of prescription drugs while helping patients access safe, effective pain relief.
Polio is closer than ever to being eradicated worldwide, but challenges such as military conflict, and bans on immunisations mean work still needs to be done to reach communities most at risk. The CDC and Global Polio Eradication Initiative will continue to run local immunisation programmes to reach the two million children in high-risk areas.
Let’s face it, we all want to reach a healthy goal weight and to be physically fit. The idea of looking better, feeling better, and being healthier is appealing to anyone writes the healthytravelblog.com
Working towards getting fit? That’s where we tend to struggle.
We always get off to a great start especially after the start of a new year, but it can be hard to stay motivated especially during a vacation. Here are 3 tips to help you stay motivated to lose weight and get fit.
1. Use Your Trip For Inspiration – Stop telling yourself “I’ll never lose the weight in time” or “I’ll start after my vacation.” Now is the time to start. Think about how awesome it would be to lose a bit of weight and to get fit in time for your trip. You can lounge on the beach while showing off some skin you may have been too shy to show in the past. You can walk all around town without getting tired as easily. If you start to lose weight and get fit before your trip, your trip may end up being even more enjoyable.
2. Buy A Swim Suit – Sure, it may only be winter, but that doesn’t mean you can’t buy a swimsuit and plan ahead for when you have that perfect beach body. This is also a great idea if you plan to take a vacation sometime in the summer. You may have to wait a few more months before you see them in most retail stores, but there are some online retailers that sell swimsuits year round. You could also try a sporting goods store that might have them in stock for swim teams. Opt to buy one that’s a size too small — it will encourage you to lose more weight to fit into it and look your best.
3. Plan Ahead – Just because you’re on vacation doesn’t mean your body should be too. Plan ahead ways to stay on track throughout your vacation. Make it fun such as participating in sports while on vacation and trying out new healthy or even vegetarian/vegan restaurants.
Studying in another country is one of the best and coolest ways to travel and learn about other cultures—and maybe the subjects of the classes you’re taking. Not only do you get to use the “it’s for school” excuse, but you also get to explore a new city (your college town is probably so lame by now anyway), try new things, and see the world from a perspective outside of the bubble that is your college campus.
But as you make sure to pack plenty of clothes and maybe a textbook or two, you should also equip yourself with some important safety tips before you leave.
To ensure you have a trip that’s both awesome and safe, here’s what you should know, suggests the healthytravelblog.com
Long security lines, delayed or cancelled flights, and running to your terminal before the plane leaves without you—need I say more? writes the healthytravelblog.com
But to make things a little less hectic, some airports have found ways to create peaceful environments for weary travelers. While it may sound like a utopian dream, we hope other airports take note of these relaxing perks:
Spas: Airports such as Vancouver International Airport, Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, and the Dubai International Airport have all invested in luxury spas where travelers can rejuvenate their body and soul with a soothing massage or other spa treatment. Some airports also feature hairdressers and nail salons as well.
Yoga Studios: The San Francisco International Airport is one of many that have now transformed surplus storage areas into yoga rooms. This is a great way to get the blood flowing and help refresh your body physically and mentally, especially before hopping on a long flight.
Meditation Rooms: The Frankfurt Airport and Raleigh-Durham International Airport each offer non-denominational meditation rooms for travelers who seek a quiet and tranquil place. It’s a great way for passengers to relax before a flight, or even say a quick prayer for patience before going through security lines.
Art Galleries: The T5 Gallery at Heathrow Airport is an award-winning artistic experience that features artwork of young artists from all over the world, as well as an impressive sculpture at the center of it. And if you fall in love with a piece, you can even buy it!
Lounges and Sleep Areas: In addition to luxury lounges that are available to all passengers, many airports also feature sleep areas that travelers can reserve for a few hours. In these rooms, people can rest, get work done, and even refresh with a shower.
Casinos: If you’re in the mood to unwind with a little roulette, the casino at Frankfurt Airport is the place to be. If roulette isn’t your thing, opt for a game of Black Jack or hit the slot machines.
Enhanced Security Area: The TSA recently teamed up with Dallas/Fort Worth Airport to test a revamped security area that aims to provider passengers with a more relaxing environment at security checkpoints. Featuring lounge seating and screens that display real-time wait times, the upgraded security area also has relaxing music, ambient lighting, and even a more interesting interior design—a real change from the dull, white-walled checkpoint areas. They even have a ‘re-composure’ area where travelers can re-pack their belongings and relax after the security process is over.
International private medical insurance provider ALC Health (à la carte healthcare) today reported a 38% growth for 2013 over the previous 12 month period.
Andrew Apps, Director at ALC Health comments:
Over the past four years we have seen a continued steady growth across our business and with 2013 once again proving to be another record year for the company.
Our customer focused boutique approach and competitive pricing structure has enabled our members to choose the cover they want at an affordable price whilst enjoying the very highest level of personal service and support that has become the hallmark of ALC Health’s success. The past year also saw the successful launch of two new core plans – Prima Platinum and Prima Concept – adding further to our existing suite of global medical insurance plans created for the expatriate and global citizen.
2013 was another exciting one for ALC Health and we are looking forward to pushing forward the boundaries even further in 2014.
For further press information contact Sheena Young at sheena.young@alchealth.com
T: +44 (0) 1903 817970
It’s only appropriate that we say goodbye to the old and welcome the new in a way that’s universally understood: With tons of parties.
Whether everyone sings Auld Lang Syne, throws flowers into the sea, or watches a ball drop, every culture and city has its own traditions for kicking off the New Year on the right foot writes the healthytravelblog.com
But wherever you choose to celebrate, remember to take extra precaution. With the crowds, festive drinks, and overall excitement of the day, it’s easy to get caught up in the festivities. Be sure to travel with a friend or in a group and stay alert as much as possible. Have a glass or two of champagne to celebrate if you’re of legal drinking age, but remember it’s always safest to stay in control. And of course, book a hotel nearby and don’t hesitate to get a taxi if necessary.
If you’re still not sure what you’ll be dong this New Year’s Eve (or want ideas for next year), here are some of the best celebrations around the world:
Sydney It’s no surprise that one of the first cities in the world to celebrate the New Year would also host a massive celebration filled with an incredible lightshow, fireworks, and pyrotechnic displays over the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Attendees can also enjoy entertainment acts such as aerial acrobats and a traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander smoking ceremony, which is done to cleanse bad spirits. At the end of the night, the festivities conclude with the Harbour of Light Parade, which features a variety of illuminated boats throughout the harbour.
Hong Kong Hong Kong is the home of an incredible fireworks display and pyrotechnic lightshow. At Hong Kong’s Time Square (yes, there are two of them!), you’ll also enjoy a taste of New York City’s famous celebration; the city also hosts a ball drop ceremony similar to the one in New York. Or, visit the Victoria Harbour and watch the countdown displayed in the sky, followed by a fireworks finale.
Cape Town While there are plenty of New Year’s Eve festivals and events to take part in, the real party in South Africa begins on New Year’s Day with Kaapse Klopse, the Cape Town Minstrel Carnival. Watch parades, performances of traditional dancers, musicians, and locals dressed up as minstrels as you celebrate a tradition that dates back to the 19th century.
Vienna Visit the charming city’s famous Christmas markets and join thousands in watching the fireworks at the Wiener Prater fun fair. Vienna is also a great place to go if you’re looking for a classy celebration; you can attend glamorous balls, galas, and concerts such as the “Grand Ball” at Hofburg Palace.
London Over 250,000 people head to the area surrounding River Thames to view the night’s events, which includes a 10-minute lightshow, fireworks, and a countdown that concludes with Big Ben striking midnight. On New Year’s Day, watch the parade in central London, which includes floats, marching bands, and even an appearance by the Queen’s horses.
Edinburgh In Scotland, an evening and a day aren’t enough to ring in the New Year. Instead, Edinburgh hosts Hogmany, which is a four-day long festival of events. Thousands of people attend the festival, which includes a traditional Celtic party, live music, and other performances on stages throughout the city. The event culminates with a pyrotechnic show at midnight on New Year’s as everyone sings Auld Lang Syne, a classic Scottish song.
New York City The Big Apple is an iconic New Year’s Eve destination, bringing in millions of people around the world to watch the ball drop—a tradition that’s been around since the early 1900s. But there’s more than just that—visitors can also enjoy celebrity performances, a lightshow, fireworks, and other festivities. But if you’re looking to enjoy the celebration without the crowds, consider viewing from a nearby hotel or restaurant.
Rio de Janeiro In the capital of Brazil, locals and visitors from all over the world head to the famous Copacabana beach to watch performances and dance the Samba. Think Carnival meets New Year’s Eve beach party—which is great for those looking to stay warm this holiday. If you go, be sure to wear white, which is said to bring good luck for the New Year. Countdown to midnight, throw flowers into the ocean, and end the night with an incredible fireworks show
ALC Health has added yet more online tools and technology to its dedicated member only service ALC World (www.alchealth.com/alcworld). Provided as part of each ALC Health policyholder’s membership package, ALC World offers a wealth of information covering medical facilities and services worldwide including city profiles, a drug and medical phrase translation service and local security updates.
Adding a further 500 medical providers to its contracted community, an increase of 9% and 200 new facilities, an increase of 14%, ALC World has also expanded the number of countries included in its Drug Equivalency Guide including the Philippines, Panama, Cyprus, Turkey, Jordan, Bahamas and Jamaica bringing the total number of countries to 42.
Additional languages are now included as part of the Medical Translation Tool which now includes audio and bilateral translations for twelve languages representing the primary languages for 193 countries: Arabic, Chinese, English, French, German, Hebrew, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish.
Andrew Apps, Director at ALC Health adds “For many expatriates, finding the right doctor or medical facility in an unfamiliar country can be difficult at best of times.
With ALC World our members have access to a wealth of comprehensive data covering doctors, specialists, clinics and hospitals which enables the user to make an informed decision when making that all important choice of who to use, for what and where. With a further expansion of the online drug translation tool, making sure the correct drug is prescribed when a repeat prescription is needed becomes simple and straightforward”.
The moment a woman discovers she’s pregnant, her life immediately changes forever. Not only do you have to prepare for your new baby’s arrival, but you must also take the necessary steps and precautions to ensure he develops safely and properly. And if you’re the type who loves to travel and doesn’t plan on stopping until absolutely necessary (or as recommended by your doctor) there are some specific travel tips you should consider before embarking on a trip writes the healthytravelblog.com
Know the best times to travel (and the worst). While pregnancy can cause nausea and fatigue, these symptoms typically don’t last throughout the entire pregnancy. The second trimester is considered the best time to travel since you’re less likely to experience morning sickness and fatigue. You should however try to avoid traveling after 36 to 38 weeks of pregnancy, unless your doctor gives you permission. If you do plan on flying late in your pregnancy, check to see if your airline requires a note from your doctor if you’re scheduled to deliver within 30 days of takeoff.
Bring a copy of all necessary medical information. If you need treatment from a local doctor during your trip, it’s important to have a copy of your prenatal records to help him better understand your pregnancy and specific needs.
If flying, opt for a pat down instead of getting scanned. When going through security at the airport, try to avoid AIT scanners (the ones that spin around you) and ask to receive a pat down instead. Since the effects of the scanners on the fetus are unknown, doctors advise women to avoid them altogether.
Choose an aisle seat. This will give you more room to stretch and allow you easier access to the bathroom. Be sure to take frequent walks to the bathroom to prevent blood clots. You might also want to wear compression socks or tights to keep your blood circulating.
Bring healthy snacks and drink plenty of water. While women should drink tons of water when pregnant, this is especially true when traveling. Aim for eight to twelve glasses of water a day to ensure the fetus is getting enough.
Pack loose and comfortable clothing. Avoid anything that’s too tight to ensure you’re as comfortable as possible during your travels.
Watch what you eat. Traveling can make it difficult to maintain a healthy and regular diet. Be sure to cut back on foods and drinks that are likely to cause gas and heartburn, and opt for foods that are high in fiber. Instead of eating three big meals a day, aim for several small meals and take your time when eating.
Slow it down. Since it’s easy to get tired when pregnant, it’s best to keep your schedule light and simple. Scheduling time to nap each day may be a good way to re-boost your energy stores and avoid exhaustion.