Healthcare Procurement

What really Goes into Providing Reliable Healthcare Procurement Services?

Healthcare Procurement

It is a well-known fact that without procurement, most businesses would not be able to operate. Reliable procurement management allows for projects and processes to be completed successfully, ensuring that items or services are provided on time, and at the right prices.

Procurement can be a complex process, involving negotiation, building relationships and guaranteeing the timely delivery of potentially lifesaving products and services as is the case with healthcare procurement, which introduces additional challenges and requirements that must be satisfied in order to ensure successful results.

 

The value of procurement consultancy

There is much more to procurement than simply reducing costs. The end goal for procurement consultants is to help clients meet their objectives while providing added value, reducing the complexity of supply chains, making operational improvements and overseeing processes from start to finish.

As the founder and Managing Director of leading healthcare procurement organisation Unimed Procurement Services (Unimed), Shameet Thakkar has a wealth of valuable insights to share on the role of procurement consultancy. He says: “Procurement is not simply about providing a product or service.

“It touches multiple parts of a business, improving strategic function, helping streamline processes and helping find better sources of supply, ultimately creating a better bottom line profit margin.

“It’s also about offering a complete solution. Whatever the client’s needs are, procurement consultants use their skills and expertise to alleviate the pressure of dealing with complicated processes and finding the best possible practices, providing access to the right products for the right people, at the right prices”, he comments.

Ultimately, procurement consultancy provides a turnkey solution. Consultants are able to work and negotiate with manufacturers, consolidators, shipping and logistics companies and other partners globally, establishing and working toward reaching KPIs along with offering the most innovative and cost-effective solutions.

“While procurement services have an international presence and work with partners all over the world, it is important to use localised procurement where possible.

“Adhering to ESG standards is critical in contributing to the world’s mission to reduce our carbon footprint, and sustainable procurement can play a significant role in contributing to the cause”, adds Shameet.

Armed with the expertise needed to create customised strategies, procurement consultancy can help find the right solutions all while operating sustainably, and to a high standard of quality.

 

What are the advantages of relying on procurement companies?

With in-depth awareness of market trends and supplier relations management, procurement companies can effectively support both clients and end users. There are, however, substantial differences between private and public procurement.

Public procurement is estimated to be at high risk for corruption, with a potential 50% of added costs to any project stemming solely from corruption, as well as a reduction in the quality of products and services.

“Corruption within procurement is a topic of concern, which is why procurement organisations should endeavour to provide transparency every step of the way”, says Shameet.

“Whether there are certain issues with a product, delivery delays, goals that are no longer attainable or risks associated with specific processes, we need to ensure we remain in control wherever possible, and that our clients are fully aware of any problems”.

Aside from providing increased flexibility within budget and procedures, private procurement companies closely work with customers from the beginning stages through to the completion of a project to efficiently meet requirements all while keeping the needs of both clients and end users in mind.  

 

Why strong quality assurance is essential

Quality assurance in procurement incorporates all the factors that influence the quality of a product, extending to the whole supply chain. This involves the raw materials used, the manufacturing process, packaging and labelling as well as transportation and storage, amongst other things.  

“When it comes to procuring healthcare and pharmaceutical products, there’s a variety of laws and regulations we have to comply with, and these can be difficult to navigate without the right knowledge and experience”, says Claire Harrington, Head of Quality Assurance at Unimed.

Companies working on an international scale have a responsibility to ensure regulations are followed across the origin country as well as those receiving the products – which often comes with additional costs, but there is more to quality assurance in procurement than simply adhering to regulations.

“It’s essential to design quality management into your services from the onset. Procurement services organisations should aim to have a quality management ethos that permeates through their whole company, so that quality is built into every interaction with suppliers and customers as well as the procurement aspect itself”, Claire adds.

Quality assurance within procurement is a multi-faceted operation that extends to the whole supply chain, involving providing realistic shipment routes, meeting traceability standards for products, keeping thorough records and complying with ad hoc requirements such as strict temperature control, particularly in the case of medical products.

“Supply chain investigation and standard control become even more important with healthcare products. For instance, faulty diagnostic equipment could result in false diagnoses, so monitoring all procedures to a high standard is crucial in minimising these risks”, says Claire.

Ultimately, end-to-end quality assurance is paramount in healthcare procurement, ensuring products can safely reach end users and playing a vital role in keeping businesses robust.

Healthy Joints

7 things You Can Do to Keep Your Joints Healthy, According to a Fitness Expert

Healthy Joints

Regardless of your age, joint pain can be an issue which impacts your daily activities. Whether you’re playing sports or working out, your weight-bearing joints: knees, ankles, shoulders, elbows, and wrists, can become stiff or dislocated. Healthy joints can help you to stay mobile as you age, but regardless of how old you are, it’s time to start taking care of your joints so you can enjoy life to the fullest.

The great news is that with adequate care and the correct training principles, you can avoid any joint injuries and relieve pain from painful conditions such as arthritis. Fitness expert at Goodnick, Emma Goodman-Horne has shared 7 ways to keep your joints healthy.

 

1) Focus on your nutrition

Reducing inflammation is a key part of keeping arthritis symptoms under control and improving overall joint health. An anti-inflammatory diet involves avoiding foods which increase inflammation, such as red meat and including the ones that decrease levels, such as salmon. Diets that have more alkaline are known to improve your energy levels, opt for foods such as berries, apples, and ginger. A diet which is low in saturated fat and processed foods can also be beneficial to your joints, think whole grains, and nuts.

 

2) Cold water therapy

Cold showers are a simple way to stay healthy as they offer a range of benefits. You can have it cold enough so it’s not uncomfortable or even save a burst of cold water for the last minute. Cold showers veer off hypertension, varicose veins and hardened arteries as well as increasing the overall performance of the circulatory system. Warm water opens your pores, whereas cold tightens them. If you suffer joint aches and sore muscles, cold water therapy is key for pain relief.

 

3) Wear the right shoes

Regardless of the activity you are doing, shoes should provide you with stability and cushioning. The arches of your feet are either high, normal, or non-existent – and finding out your foot strike pattern, either overpronation, under pronation or neutral is key to find the right shoe. Consult a podiatrist to analyse your pattern and find the perfect fit for you.

 

4) Keep moving

Staying active is vital to reduce stiffness in your joints. Try to move around as often as you can during the day and avoid sitting in one position for too long. Low impact exercises such as swimming or strength training helps your joints stay mobile. Always take any form of exercise slowly, and warm up adequality.

 

5) Have a correct posture

Poor posture can lead to tightened muscles, and eventually long-term back pain. The vertebral discs have poor nutritional blood supply when your body is static. By getting up and moving around each hour, you can combat any impact and reduce spinal pain. Make sure you maintain angles of 90 degrees if you are sitting as this will be beneficial for your elbows, hips and knees. Having a chair with low back support is great, or alternatively you can prop up a pillow or bath towel and place it behind your low back.

 

6) Try low-impact exercises

The benefits of regular exercise can be achieved with low-impact exercises. This type of workout is gentle and minimises the stress it puts on joints during high-intensity workouts. You can try stationary or recumbent bicycles to keep active whilst protecting your joints. Programmes such as Goodnick will help you stay on a consistent exercise plan tailor made to suit your level of pace and impact desired.

 

7) Listen to your body

Your body knows best – when it’s time to stop a certain movement make sure you listen. Sometimes, over doing it can make all the difference between a performance improvement and a dislocated joint. If you feel any pain during exercise or sport, it’s vital to stop and rest. If the problem is ongoing, consult a doctor to check for any permanent damage as this can lead to long term joint issues.

Counselling

How to Choose a Clinical Counsellor Vancouver

Counselling

A clinical counsellor offers counseling and psychotherapy services to individuals, couples, families, and groups. Whether you’re experiencing relationship difficulties, struggling with anxiety or depression, or dealing with a life transition, a clinical counsellor can help. In other words, this mental health expert can provide the support, guidance, and tools you need to cope. You can talk to them when you need someone to lend a professional, unbiased ear.

Choosing a clinical counsellor needs to be done with utmost care because the success of therapy or counselling sessions depends, to a large extent, on the rapport that you share with your counsellor. While various counselling Vancouver options are available, it can be overwhelming to identify the best one.

To help you get started, here are some tips.

1. Check their license and credentials

In Vancouver the title “clinical counsellor” is not legally protected, and this is why it’s important to see a therapist or has Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) designation. These professionals must have completed a master’s or doctoral degree in clinical training standards from an accredited institution. The registration guarantees that the counsellor met the necessary academic requirements and is qualified to provide counselling services.

Furthermore, a registered clinical counsellor in Vancouver pertains to a mental health expert who received the education and training required by the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC). The organization upholds a strict code of ethics and sets high clinical standards that its members must follow. That means their peers have vetted the competence of your potential counsellor.

Having these excellent qualities ensures that you’re getting quality counselling services, giving you a better chance of meeting your therapy goals.

2. Verify the counsellor’s experience

It’s no secret that experience is essential in every field. The same goes for clinical counsellors. The more years they’ve been in the counseling field, the more likely they have a solid understanding of their clients’ different challenges. To sum it up, an experienced counsellor has more in-depth knowledge of handling various mental health conditions.

When checking a counsellor’s experience, pay attention to the following:

  • The number of years they’ve been practicing
  • Types of clients they see regularly
  • Success rate

Verifying these factors will give you an idea of the counsellor’s capabilities. It’s best to choose someone who has extensive experience supporting issues similar to yours. That way, you can be confident that they know how to address your concerns and are focused on providing you with the best care possible.

3. Consider their counselling techniques

Every clinical counsellor is unique in their approach and techniques. Some use traditional talk therapy, while others combine different methods to tailor their services according to their client’s needs. The important thing is that the counsellor’s practices are evidence-based and backed by research. After all, you want to make sure that the therapy sessions are productive and helpful.

The best way to know which technique is right for you is to schedule an initial consultation with your potential counsellor. During this meeting, you can ask about their methods and feel their counselling style. Whether it’s cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), emotion-focused therapy (EFT), or something else, ensure you’re comfortable with the counsellor’s approach before making a decision.

Aside from CBT, here are some other counselling techniques and approaches you may want to consider:

  • Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
  • Interpersonal therapy (IT)
  • Adlerian therapy
  • Psychodynamic therapy
  • EMDR

Knowing about their approach will give you a better idea of whether or not they’re a good fit for you.

4. Don’t forget the service fee structure

Service cost is probably one of the first things you’ll think about when searching for a clinical counsellor. After all, you want to make sure that you’re getting your money’s worth. When it comes to service fees, there are three common billing structures:

  • Per session fee: As the name suggests, you’ll be charged per counselling session. This fee structure is the most common type.
  • Package fee: You’ll be charged a lump sum for several sessions. This option is ideal if you want to commit to long-term counselling but very few therapists provide it.

Knowing these fee structures will help you select a clinical counsellor that suits your budget. The most important thing is getting the help and support you need.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to choose a clinical counsellor, it’s time to start your search. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be on your way to finding the best professional to help you achieve your counselling goals.

Good Mental Health

The Ultimate Guide to Achieving Good Mental and Behavioral Health

Good Mental Health

Sometimes, the hustle of daily life becomes too much. With it comes anxiety, stress, or the fear of the unknown, affecting your mental health and behavior. Handling everyday challenges and managing your feelings and behaviors are critical to maintaining your overall well-being. While it can be challenging, there are certain things you can do to improve your overall mental and behavioral health.

In this article, we’re sharing a comprehensive list of tips on achieving good mental and behavioral health.

 

1. Ask For Professional Help

We’re starting our list with the most effective method, especially for those struggling for a long time.

Admitting that you’re having issues can be difficult. However, there’s no shame in it. If you feel sadness, stress, anxiety, negative feelings, or your unwanted behaviors are piling up and hindering your daily life, consider consulting a professional.

Seeking help from a mental or behavioral health professional can help you share your burdens without worrying about bias or judgments, helping you process your feelings more fully. Professionals can also help you get treated with tried-and-tested methods such as counseling, therapies, measurement-based care, and others.  

 

2. Eat Healthily

Food is fuel. The kinds of drinks and foods you consume determine the types of nutrients in your system, which has a significant impact not only on your physical body but also on how your mind functions.

As one of the busiest organs in the body, the brain needs quality fuel to function well. There are strong links between what you eat and how you feel. For instance, missing meals can cause your blood sugar level to drop, making you feel tired and bad-tempered. Eating a well-balanced meal full of foods and drinks rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals can improve your overall mood and promote cognitive functioning.

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3. Be Active

One of the most effective methods to maintain good mental health and steer clear of behavioral issues is by exercising. Studies show that staying active stimulates the release of endorphins or the ‘feel-good’ hormones that can help relieve stress while improving your psychological and emotional state.

Plus, exercising for at least 20 minutes a day is a great way to feel a sense of accomplishment and helps you take control of your life, especially during times of uncertainty.   

Thus, simply getting your body moving can help improve your mental health and works as an effective treatment for negative emotions and behavioral difficulties. You don’t have to do strenuous exercise either; taking morning walks around your neighborhood or stretching can make a huge difference.   

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4. Don’t Skimp On Sleep

You’re probably guilty of promising yourself that you will sleep earlier every night only to end up scrolling for three hours on social media or tapping the ‘Next Episode’ of your favorite series on your Netflix app. Sure, it’s easier to get distracted by today’s technology than get some shut-eye. However, the constant yawning and that voice in the back of your mind reminding you to sleep is mostly right.

Sleep deprivation, as well as low-quality sleep, can have a significant impact on how you’ll feel the next day. It will make you more irritable and reduce your ability to focus and concentrate on your tasks and activities. Getting enough sleep can help your brain and body recharge. As a result, it makes you perform at your best during your waking hours.

Ensuring a consistent good night’s rest can significantly improve your mental health and psychological functions, even in ways that are not readily apparent.   

 

5. Be Sociable

Socializing can mean simply opening up to someone about an issue or problem, or it can also mean just being kind in general. Confiding in others and receiving their trust can help build self-worth and improve your overall emotional being.   

That said, the quantity and quality of social relationships we maintain can also impact our mental health. You want to ensure that the people around you evoke positive emotions and attitudes, are supportive, and are generally good for you. Being around the wrong people can contribute to mental issues and invite behavioral problems into your life.

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Takeaway

Just as physical fitness helps the body stay strong, mental and behavioral wellness can help us nurture and sustain the mind and emotions. By being mentally healthy, you can enjoy your life, achieve better behavior and attitude, and have better relationships with others.

You’ll be creative, try new things, learn and take risks. You can also cope better during difficult times in your personal and professional life. And although bad things may happen in life, having solid mental and behavioral health can help you get on with it and enjoy your life once again.

Varicose Veins Treatments

Phlebology’s Leading Medical Minds

Varicose Veins Treatments

A clinic that has achieved worldwide recognition for the excellence of its services, The Whiteley Clinic has earned itself recent accreditation as the provider of the ‘Best for Varicose Veins Treatments’ in 2022 for the UK. This is just one of the many titles it has won itself over the years, boasting the development of all-new treatments, the most rigorous client care, and the most highly recognised research in phlebology. Due to its new approaches, bold ideas, and transparency, it has been seeing increasing numbers of overseas patients flocking to it, as well as patients from within the UK, and promises to continue serving each and every one of them with the excellence its industry expects from it.

When it comes to specialist clinics in the medical field, The Whiteley Clinic ranks amongst the best for vein therapies and research. Fundamentally, it has gained a reputation for its consistent research and treatments that push forward the greater innovations of the field, founded by the eponymous Mark Whiteley in 2001. Since the turn of the century, its notoriety has grown through showing its diligence to the science of its work and the patients who would benefit from it being turned into treatments, following the founder’s own development of endovenous – or ‘pinhole’ – surgery for varicose veins in March of 1999. He was also the first in the UK to perform the all-new surgical method to access varicose veins in a minimally invasive manner, working alongside Judy Holdstock, and it is this excellence with which he has built the foundation of The Whiteley Clinic.

Making use of radiofrequency initially – mostly due to budget – this varicose vein surgical method has since enjoyed advancements in both innovation and funding, with alternatives to radiofrequency being discovered regularly. This, in essence, has allowed The Whiteley Clinic to allow use of multiple different modalities. Initially, the setup to varicose vein treatments was its only priority, but ongoing research has allowed it to expand its list of conditions, from venous leg ulcers and pelvic pain due to Pelvic Congestion Syndrome; thus, it invites clients to get in touch with it regarding such things so it can discuss with them how it best may help, developing an international reputation for aesthetic phlebology.

Initially, this simply meant the treatment of thread veins on the legs, but with the expansion of recent research, it has extended to the treatment of so much more. Able to treat bulging veins on the face, forehead, breasts, arms, and feet, it can help clients with all manner of painful extruding venous problems, all made possible by the research and ingenuity of the founder and his exemplary team. Indeed, since then, Mark Whitely has published the first research papers for the treatment of such things; papers that have been incredibly well received by the wider research community and that specifically talk of how to treat bulging venous areas on the forehead and temporal scalp region.

Of course, when discussing such delicate areas of the body, one must act with the utmost care and rigour. This is another unswayable part of the The Whiteley Clinic’s work. When handling its client’s cases, it will always strive to put their safety and comfort first. Nominally, each and every one of its processes have been designed and redesigned by the most scrutinising eyes and dedicated team, able to tailor a treatment plan to suit the needs of the patient as well as to talk them through certain treatments in as much detail as they wish so that they are thoroughly informed before they decide on what they want.

Its core values, from top to bottom, are to ensure that all of its patients receive the most optimal treatment for their condition. Using its own research, and research from other international minds in the venous research circle, it works hard to keep its services leading the pack in its field, granting the best possible patient experience under its investigation and treatment so that they can look forward to the rest of their lives with confidence. This confidence-building – and this depth of research and study – contributes to the trust its patients have been able to build in it over the years, resulting in an establishment and research facility that is widely lauded as one of the premier vein units in the world.

This, in essence, has been one of its goals since the beginning. With exemplary client service, an incredible body of research at its back, and a dedication to comprehensive work that has made it a trusted scientific voice amongst its peers, its clients can benefit from the pedigree it has earned itself since its very beginnings. The Whiteley Clinic, in addition, has been working on bettering each of these elements since then, keeping itself at the top of its industry through determination and adaptation, refusing to rest on the laurels it has already earned itself in order to continually raise the bar for strict excellence.

By following ‘The Whiteley Protocol’, the staff at the Clinic ensure that each detail is properly attended to whilst keeping an eye on the bigger picture. This protocol has been developed over years of study, into which blood, sweat, and tears has been poured, and the result is a process that has been proven to create the best outcomes for its patients time and time again, working as a team as every juncture to make this happen. Critically, this team is one that has been built over time not just out of professionals who are industry leading in their fields, but out of professionals who demonstrate true care and compassion; people who are always willing to go above and beyond for client safety.

Furthermore, with the glowing client reviews and exemplary word of mouth testimonials that its clients leave it with, recommending its efforts to friends, colleagues, and family, The Whiteley Clinic’s staff have a proven track record of this excellence that prospective patients can skim through before they even step foot in the clinic. This helps build this trust before a patient even makes their first appointment. With this in mind, the team are able to welcome clients into its clinic with pride, knowing that it has been able to maintain so many clients as friends of the institute.

Serving clients from the UK and internationally, many come to it with varicose veins or thread veins knowing it has managed to get the lowest recurrence rate possible. Having put significant effort into the research that would allow it to do this, it welcomes every prospective patient who comes to it through its doors; it is this warmth of welcome that encourages people with all manner of cosmetic issues and symptoms through its doors, such as aching or tired legs, swollen ankles, red or brown stains on the skin, clots, or ulcers.

It is aware that its pre-eminent treatment efforts are head and shoulders above that of many others, and thus strives to make it accessible for everyone. Its core goal – helping the patient find comfort and confidence – is something it wishes won’t be an option exclusive to its clients in the future, hoping that everyone who suffers from venous issues can get access to the treatments that will allow them to be resolved. Admirably, it also holds this position in the sphere of aesthetic medical phlebology, its patients coming to it from all over the world for help with bulging veins on their foreheads, breasts, arms, hands, and feet, as well as tortuous and bulging arteries on the temple region.

It allows professionals in its industry, patients, and stakeholders to be able to get a better understanding of venous conditions simply through continuing to work in the way it has. Its deep knowledge of venous reflux, the cause of varicose veins problems and ulcers, as well as leg ulcer revolution, chronic pelvic pain, and other disorders, often result in it finding itself featured in the national press for its continually incredible findings. Often, The Whiteley Clinic finds itself in positions to comment on cases of extreme interest to the scientific community, and it is glad to be able to apply its knowledge to such things.

Of course, this is just one of the many ways by which it differentiates itself from its peers. Its efforts for the wider research community, diligence towards applying this unique protocol to its services, and specific knowledge of the depth and breadth of venous issues, has set it truly head and shoulders above all other treatment centres in the UK who target similar venous conditions and troubles. Firstly, it has an active research programme which directly feeds its treatments. Due to the nature of its work, it often finds years between the research’s results being found and said results being published, meaning an often-frustrating time delay between the benefits to certain treatments being discovered and their application, but The Whiteley Clinic can fast track this by offering these treatments before they are published to the wider scientific community in peer reviewed journals.

It also boasts the ability to ensure its patients are thoroughly scanned by a specialist vascular technologist when they arrive. This individual service, operated by someone who has been trained specially in accordance with the Whiteley Protocol, conducts a comprehensive scan of the person to get holistic view of the challenges they may be facing, turning the usual industry standard of the ‘quick scan’ on its head. The Whiteley Clinic knows that such ‘quick scans’ often miss a lot of the nuances of a case, and therefore are nowhere near as useful for getting to the root of the problem quickly and effectively, ensuring that more than one person views the data before a diagnosis is made.

Thirdly, its transparency when working with its patients and when discussing its results has secured it notoriety as a deeply honest and highly client-faithful healthcare provider. Taking this a step further, its doctors are now also registered members of the College of Phlebology Venous Registry, earning client trust back despite the loss of trust that occurred during the Bristol heart scandal in the 1980s, something that its older clients remember and that its doctors are aware of being sensitive towards. After this scandal rocked the medical community of the UK – and indeed the world at large – its professionals, The Whiteley Clinic included, have had to come to terms with the fact that the only way that patients can know whether doctors, clinics, or hospitals are getting good results is if they are part of a registry.

This third-party oversight means that a client doesn’t have to take The Whiteley Clinic’s word for the excellence of its results; they can ask the governing body that keeps an eye on this. The Whiteley Clinic’s protocol has, indeed, been developed as yet another answer to this predicament. Its standardised efforts ensure that it operates with openness and a strict dedication to the utmost scientific rigour at every turn, making sure its doctors and regularly checked and that the results are being consistently monitored, each of its staff members proving their status as an asset to the business and the medical sector by their flawless compliance with this. Each of them, benefitting from the incredible training and onboarding The Whiteley Clinic provides, has aided it in pulling through the trials and tumults of the pandemic, developing a Covid-19 secure protocol quickly in order to be able to keep offering its services to those who needed urgent venous investigations and treatments. Thus, 2022 promises to continue being a busy time for it, opening its 4th clinic on the south coast and in talks about opening a 5th one in the summer already, as well as continuing its research and introducing new, non-invasive Echotherapy investigative treatments into its offerings. In short, its continued innovation in phlebology show no signs of slowing, and it is excited to see what findings it can bring before its peers next.

For further information, please contact Caprice Chislett or visit thewhiteleyclinic.co.uk

Dental Alligners

7 Ways to Improve Your Smile, According to a Dentist

Dental Alligners

Everyone desires a picture-perfect smile, taking care of your teeth not only keeps them healthy and protected against cavities, but it also helps to boost your self-confidence and overall mood. Having optimal oral hygiene is an integral part of your health and will save you from several dental complications which can lead to other health issues such as diabetes. Over time your teeth can go through discolouration, making them more ‘eggshell white’ rather than ‘flat white’ and your alignment may alter. A good oral hygiene routine helps to prevent tooth decay, bad breath and also gum disease. Keeping your smile healthy involves making lifestyle changes and being consistent with the upkeep.

To prove it’s never too late to make a change, Dr. Hocaoglu, dentist at Clinic Center has shared 7 ways to improve your smile.

1) Teeth whitening

Teeth whitening is known to improve the cosmetic appearance of your smile, but many people are unaware that certain types of teeth whitening can promote the health of your teeth and gums. Teeth whitening will help combat stains from your daily food and drink consumption. From dentist-prescribed tooth whiteners to in-clinic whitening procedures, there are many options to choose from. Although there are DIY treatments and at home kits available, the procedure is much safer and effective when carried out by a professional.#

2) Routine dental cleanings

Routine dental cleanings are crucial to improving your smile. It is recommended by dentists to have a full dental exam every six months. This will help the dentist keep on track with your oral hygiene and keep your smile looking bright by thoroughly brushing and cleaning the teeth. Regular exams will also catch any dentals problems at premature stages and prevent any issues such as cavities and gum disease.

3) Flossing after meals

After meals, food can become lodged deeply in between your teeth which could become a reason for gingivitis and early tooth decay. If you floss after every meal, you can prevent these problems from happening and keep your smile clean. Flossing can also get rid of plaque. Whilst it’s difficult to see, plaque forms on and around your teeth when bacteria in your mouth mixes with sugary food and drink. The bacteria in plaque can release acids that attack your tooth enamel, without adequate brushing and flossing, it can lead to cavities.

4) Hydrate more often

Whilst hydration isn’t the first thing people link optimal oral hygiene too, it is highly significant for dental wellbeing. Water doesn’t only detoxify the body, but it flushes out any stubborn particles in and around the teeth. The more hydrated your mouth is, less chance of plaque to be built up. Regular consumption also stimulates salvia production which helps to protect your teeth and gums as salvia washes away food debris and fights cavity causing bacteria.

5) Diagnose dental problems in the first stages

When people have tooth aches and gum pain, they often ignore the first signs. This might be due to fears of the dentist, or underestimation of the extent of damage. As soon you notice something out of character such as a nagging tooth pain, book an appointment with your dentist immediately. A delated dental problem can lead to worsening oral conditions and problems such as teeth abscess and bone loss.

6) Adult braces

Many adults struggle to maintain their dental health due to misalignment. If you have misaligned teeth, it can cause discomfort in both the teeth and the gums. Adult braces help with maintaining healthier looking teeth and improved oral hygiene. They work by applying pressure to the teeth to help improve the position in your mouth. It also has the added benefit of improving the health of your jaw and better brushing habits as your smile will become straight.

7) Limit coffee and alcohol intake

Coffee and alcohol stain your teeth in the same way tobacco does. These are both highly acidic and over time, increased consumption can weaken the tooth enamel. They are known for causing stains on the teeth and increased exposure to the liquids will cause your tooth enamel to become vulnerable to extreme damage. Try to limit the consumption of both and use a whitening toothpaste to rectify any stains caused.

Thank You NHS

Celebrating the NHS: How Can We Ensure It Remains Available For Future Generations?

Thank You NHS

The NHS is one of the UK’s most valuable assets, and its widespread significance has become even more apparent throughout the past two years due to its role in the battle against Covid-19.

As it is a complex and multi-bodied entity, the safeguarding of the NHS requires tackling a variety of challenges, but the lessons we learned from the Covid-19 crisis have shown it is vital that this institution maintains its reliability and resilience.

Celebrating the work that’s been done by the NHS and its staff – and not only in the past two years – is essential, and with Thank You Day fast approaching on July 4th, we should spotlight the substantial value of the NHS and its contributions.

Here, Shameet Thakkar, founder and managing director of Unimed Procurement Services, a leading procurement organisation providing lifesaving healthcare and medical resources worldwide, discusses the challenges faced by the NHS and the importance of ensuring the institution remains available for future generations. 

 

What makes the NHS so valuable?

Having access to essential medical services effectively protects individuals, keeping them safe and healthy, which makes dependable healthcare systems paramount.

Further, when considering that over 100 million individuals are driven into poverty each year due to out-of-pocket healthcare-related expenses, the value of universal healthcare becomes even more evident. And despite the enormous strain the pandemic placed on the NHS, it remains a reliable and efficient service, consistently earning top marks for safety and patient care.

More than that, the NHS plays a significant role within the UK’s society and economy at a national and local level, employing millions of individuals, purchasing a high amount of goods and land and consistently investing in training and education for its existing workforce.

The link between health and wealth is a particularly important one, as having access to a reliable healthcare system allows populations to thrive, becoming more economically active: this makes the NHS an anchor institution capable of influencing the wellbeing of the population.

Preserving the NHS’ role within society and the economy should be a priority for the UK Government, yet the operational pressures it is currently facing may just require more than revisiting the budget dedicated to the institution.

 

The challenges faced by the NHS

The complexity of the NHS as an entity means there is plenty to be considered in order to create a strategy that improves efficiency.

The NHS’s decentralised model means that it comprises different organisations that operate independently from one another. Issues within its supply chain were the source of the shortage of supplies we experienced during the first wave of the Covid-19 pandemic, and though staff – and those working within supply chain operations – were not equipped to deal with such a surge in demand at the time, we can certainly learn from our mistakes.

As NHS Supply Chain – a separate entity – sources, delivers and supplies healthcare products for the NHS – currently managing over eight million orders per year, we can easily imagine how the unexpected extra requirements stemming from the pandemic caused such critical problems for the organisation.

Working with over 930 suppliers naturally means there are extra challenges involved when it comes to quality assurance, product safety and product innovation. And yet, if we are to learn from the Covid-19 equipment shortage crisis, our focus should be on increasing the resilience of the supply chains that serve NHS trusts in order to be prepared for future challenges and preserve the NHS’ strength and influence.

Managing resources efficiently undoubtedly starts with partnering with dependable and trusted suppliers, but it also involves identifying the strengths and weaknesses of the supply chain’s overall operational model and making improvements as a result. A proactive approach involves being able to promptly deal with supply disruptions or safety complaints and intervene accordingly.

Ultimately, the priority should be on ensuring the NHS can safely and efficiently provide care to patients, as well as developing a stable system that ensures future stability.

 

How can we keep the NHS available for future generations?

The challenges faced by the NHS go beyond supply chain issues, extending to those deriving from population growth, evolving healthcare needs, the added cost of medical advancements and more.

The NHS’s issues with funding are well-documented, having become a problem long before Covid-19. However, the pandemic significantly exacerbated the backlog of care in England, with the number of individuals on a waiting list for care having gone from 4.43 million people – prior to the pandemic – to over 6.48 million as of April 2022.

As this backlog continues to grow to this day, our aim should be to increase surgical capacity, effectively shortening the long waiting lists for patients requiring lifesaving operations and treatment.

Investing in the NHS is crucial not only to avoid the widespread repercussions that delays in providing healthcare can have, but also to avoid the privatisation of services. Private healthcare has already been discussed as a potential solution, yet the UK Government needs a long-term plan for the NHS that doesn’t involve relying on private entities as a solution.

And with the staffing crisis unlikely to improve any time soon, the institution is under pressure in more than one way, making its recovery a long process that will require a dedicated plan capable of improving its performance and efficiency.

Preserving the NHS as a public entity providing universal health coverage ultimately protects individuals in a variety of ways, avoiding financial hardship and ensuring care is provided in an accessible way, avoiding inequalities.

7 Ways to Overcome Drug Addiction

When someone is addicted to drugs, it means he or she continues to use one or more substances despite the fact that it harms his or her daily functioning, relationships, or health.

The toughest step for many people who have drug addiction is recognizing they have a problem and deciding to make a change. Once that step has been taken, there are several potential routes to take in order to overcome the addiction. Here are seven.

1. Commit to Change

If you have a drug addiction, the first thing you need to do is commit to changing your behaviour.

You will need to contemplate cutting down, moderating, or eliminating your addictive behaviour. You can then get professional help, identify specific goals to help you overcome your addiction, and follow a plan to help you achieve your goals.

2. Find Support

You can better overcome your addiction if you have people to support you. Ideally, you will have friends and family members who can support your transition to recovery.

But you should also get support from specific support groups. Your doctor can help you explore support group options.

3. Eliminate Triggers

Staying away from people you know who do drugs will go a long way to helping you stick to your plan of cutting down or quitting your addiction. So, avoid friends that you have used drugs with and places where you have done drugs. 

In fact, you should eliminate any triggers that bring up memories of your drug use to help you move on.

4. Complete a Detoxification Programme

Drug addiction is treatable. By taking the first big step of talking to a doctor about your addiction, you can explore treatment options and find the best option for you.

Some treatment plans work better for some kinds of drug addiction than others. One of the best routes for most kinds of addiction is participating in a detoxification program in a safe and controlled environment.

5. Utilise Counselling Services

Counselling is another effective treatment option. Talking about yourself, your problems, and your addiction can help you identify why you began using drugs. In turn, that can help you to quit. Counselling is an umbrella term for various therapy treatments.

One of the most commonly used therapies for drug addiction is cognitive behavioural therapy, which allows you to recognize problematic thinking, behaviours, and patterns to establish healthier ways of coping and develop stronger self-control.

6. Try Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation

Transcranial magnetic stimulation is a revolutionary, non-invasive treatment that is most commonly used for depression and anxiety, but it can also be used for treating addiction.

TMS uses magnetic fields to stimulate your brain’s nerves. You can access the trauma-focused treatment via Roots Through Recovery Addiction Treatment.

The team of compassionate professionals at Roots Through Recovery can also help you to identify the underlying causes of your issues and develop coping skills that you can continue to use after the treatment.

7. Use Medication Alongside Other Treatment Options

For some types of drug addiction, medication can be used as part of a larger treatment plan. Medication is most commonly used to treat opioid use disorder.

By taking prescribed medication, you can potentially control your drug cravings, relieve symptoms of withdrawal, and help to prevent relapses.

The Takeaway

It should now be clear that there are a wide variety of treatment options available to help you overcome your drug addiction. But the first step is often the hardest: admitting you have a problem and seeking help.

Once you have overcome that step, it will be easier to get the right treatment for your specific addiction and situation. Talk to your doctor so that you can explore your options in more detail and get the help you need to overcome your addiction and take back control of your life. 

Japanese Face Mask

5 Health Benefits of Wearing Japanese Face Masks

Japanese Face Mask

Face masks have become commonplace in society today, not only in Japan but worldwide. There are many reasons people don their masks before dashing out of the home, with some ladies even using them to hide their faces when they don’t have time for makeup. 

People have ingenious ways of incorporating their face masks into their daily routine, and there are many adjusted clothing items and gadgets to facilitate wearing masks. So why are so many drawn to wearing the masks?  

Most face mask wearers have varied ideas of why they are keeping themselves healthy, but here are some of the health benefits listed by the Japanese citizens: 

 

1. Prevents the Spread of Illnesses

As everyone knows, the face mask protects the wearer and those around them from spreading airborne bacteria and viruses. Coughing or sneezing hurls the illness-causing agents into the air, and passers-by then inhale these pathogens. 

Once in the body, the microorganisms start to multiply, and soon, the person carrying them can spread them on to others. To minimize the risk of a sick person or carrier spreading the disease to others, people can wear Japanese-style masks like those from https://masaomask.com.au/ as protection. 

With most flu-like diseases or conditions having an incubation period of a few days, some people may not know they’re infected and some show no signs of illness at all. During this time, the microorganisms can be spread to others much quicker if people don’t take precautions like wearing masks in social settings.

 

2. Improves Hay Fever Symptoms

Some wearers of the Japanese face masks noted an improvement in their allergies when wearing their masks outside of their homes. The face covers aren’t equally efficient in keeping out pollen, but the Japanese variants seem to bring some extra relief. 

The air quality in big cities is poor because of various pollutants, increasing the likelihood of upper airway infections and hay fever. Although masks are not a surefire way to prevent these conditions, they contribute to a diminished risk for them. 

Japanese masks are known to filter out up to 99% of particles in the air, making them some of the best to buy for someone suffering from hay fever or allergies.

 

3. Assists Mental Well-being

The Japanese are a hard-working nation known to keep their heads down and mind their business. Many people value their privacy and sometimes need solitude to gather their thoughts. 

For introverts, the face mask has become socially acceptable for use when they feel overwhelmed. Communication hinges on reading people’s facial expressions, so individuals naturally avoid conversations with someone wearing a mask unless needed. 

In the long run, this isn’t a great strategy to prevent interaction, and communication with others is needed. But when the situation calls for some alone time and the person feels their anxiety well up, donning a mask is an easy solution.

 

4. Keeps the Airways Moist and Warm

The human body relies on the air we breathe to be moist and warm when inhaling it into the lungs. The cold air could cause upper airway and respiratory infections in colder climates because the airways are more susceptible. 

The Japanese face masks keep the mouth, nose, and cheeks warm during the cold, decreasing the possibility of contracting minor or more severe infections. 

 

5. Could Improve Eating Habits

Although this isn’t an official benefit of the Japanese face masks, people who wear masks said that it prevents them from sticking food into their mouths all day. It has caused people to think more about their actions and plan meals instead of grabbing something on the go. Most people will still eat their meals and snacks, but planning helps them avoid fast food and unhealthy options they could grab without thinking.

 

The Final Word

Japanese face coverings have been around for more than a hundred years, leading some to believe that their masks are some of the best designs among other options on the market today. After all, they have had a few years to perfect their craft.

Whether the person wears a mask for physical or mental health reasons, they remain one of the top-selling items worldwide. Looking at the benefits of these Japanese-style masks, it isn’t hard to see that they will be around for the next hundred years.

Prevention is always better than cure, no matter the health issue, so remember to grab your mask and contribute to your safety and those of others.

CBD and Cancer

CBD and Cancer

Cancer may be initially localized within a single organ or tissue, or it may spread to other organs and tissues. Most often, cancer arises from the cells of the body itself, the skin, and certain glands.

However, some cancers arise only within the body without being caused by anything external to that person’s body. Therefore, most cancers are named for their type histologically rather than their location in the body.

There are several different types of cancer, some of which may be more common in people as they age. These types of cancer include cervical cancer, liver cancer, lung cancer, and esophageal cancer.

What is CBD?

The cannabis plant contains a substance called cannabidiol (CBD), which has been studied for its medical potential, including anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects suggestive of its use as a treatment for certain diseases.

CBD is made by extracting CBD from either hemp or marijuana and mixing it with a base of either coconut or extra-virgin olive oil. It’s then mixed with whatever dosage you want, typically between 5 and 20 drops per sublingual drip, depending on the brand.

Although details of cannabis-derived products have been found to be highly varied, the acids can be used in many ways: as a foodstuff, in beverages, or even as a medicine.

Benefits of CBD in the cancer treatment

Cannabis is a plant that has been used since ancient times for medicinal purposes and recreation. Cannabidiol (CBD) has been widely studied to prevent and treat several health problems. However, it is always advised to use a cannabis consultant for administering dosage.

Nausea and Vomiting

Several synthetic THC medications can help relieve nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy. These medicines have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in patients with brain cancers.

Psychological benefits

The benefits of CBD in the cancer treatment, especially if you have developed any psychological disorders or acquired some other adverse side effect of the treatment such as anxiety or depression, those can even be treated by using CBD oil.

Chronic Pain and inflammation

Many people suffer from chronic Pain, especially after cancer treatments. CBD is a cannabinoid that acts on the body’s Endocannabinoid System (ECS), which helps to reduce pain and swelling. Although the studies show that using CBD reduces chronic pain outcomes, it may take multiple doses for the effects to be fully seen.

It helps in sound sleep

A recent study has found that CBD may help to increase sleep duration by reducing the level of cortisol, a stress-inducing hormone in the cancer patients.

Stressors such as extended work hours and sleep deprivation are related to increased cancer mortality rates. In addition, more recent studies suggest that certain types of stress – including chronic stress and psychological trauma – may boost cancer risk.

Regulating Appetite

Several patients complained of a decrease in their appetite post chemotherapy. The use of CBD helps in managing the appetite in patients and boosts the immunity that results in dealing with other ailments that may occur during the cancer treatment.

3 Common Myths About Using Viagra

Viagra has been a popular choice to treat erectile dysfunction because it is effective, and extensive scientific evidence supports its usage. At the same time, various myths and misconceptions are attached to Viagra. If you intend to take this medicine, you need to know the facts before setting unrealistic goals about the results. Here are three common myths people have about using Viagra and why they are wrong:

1. Immediate Results

A common myth about using Viagra is that its results are immediate. However, Viagra can take more than 30 minutes to start affecting the male body. If one takes it along with their food, the digestion of the Viagra tablet will be slowed down: it may take more time than usual to show the results in this case. The drug may also become less effective if it is taken with alcohol or medicines. You should also note that the effectiveness of Viagra will also depend upon sexual stimulation, and Viagra alone is not effective in overcoming erectile dysfunction.

2. It’s Addictive

Many believe that Viagra is an addictive drug, and it makes a person depend on it to achieve an erection. This is a major reason people are afraid of taking Viagra; they believe they will get hooked on it. However, there are no properties or ingredients that can make it addictive.

Viagra pills help achieve and maintain an erection as they relax the blood vessels for a few hours. The drug starts affecting the body within an hour of its intake by improving the blood flow to the penis. There is no addictive element involved in it at all.

3. It Increases Your Libido

Some people assume that Viagra is an aphrodisiac when it just helps develop and maintain an erection once an individual is sexually stimulated.  It does not have any properties that help with arousal in its formation, so it does not affect the sex drive. Your libido will not be affected in any way by the intake of Viagra. However, taking it can help you overcome any confidence issues related to sex by letting you overcome the disorder part. It will only help with blood flow and enhance your sexual ability for a while after you take it, but will not have any effect on your sex drive in the long or short run.

Endnote

Taking Viagra is often associated with feelings of guilt or shame, and this needs to end. People assume all sorts of incorrect concepts about intaking the drug, including its relation to libido and addictiveness. Another common misconception is that taking Viagra will cure erectile dysfunction over time.

It is essential to understand that Viagra is only a temporary solution for erectile dysfunction, not a permanent treatment. It is also important to realize that Viagra may not work for a while. Be patient with the results of this medicine, as you may need to take it a few times for it to start showing desired results.

Now, you can easily purchase Viagra from the comfort of your home. All you need to do is place an order at Viagra online Canada, and the order will be delivered to your doorstep. This will save you from the hesitation of going to a pharmacy or nearby hospital.

Prioritising Mental Health

World Well-being Week – Did We Learn Anything About Mental Health From the Pandemic?

Prioritising Mental Health

With World Well-being Week commencing on 27th June, did we learn anything about prioritising our health at work from the pandemic or are we simply going back to the way things were?  For many, the jury is still out.

The Stevenson/Farmer review, Thriving at Work, in October 2017 highlighted that an estimated 300,000 people lost their jobs each year due to mental ill-health pre-pandemic. Stress has been one of the top work-related factors that affect the health of adults in the UK in the last decade. That is pre-pandemic, the situation is now much worse but how does this translate to the workplace?

Many of us are struggling with poor mental health, burnout and anxiety.  In April 2021 McKinsey stated that at least 49% of respondents to a survey said they feel somewhat burned out. Work-related mental ill-health was costing UK businesses up to £45 billion in 2019, but those numbers are now £56 billion a year according to Deloitte UK, an increase of around 25%. This is likely to be as a result of staff turnover, absenteeism and the negative impact on productivity and profits for staff who are unable to cope due to mental health issues.

Equally according to the Office for National Statistics (ons.gov.uk) in February 2022, 78% of those who worked from home in some capacity said that being able to work from home gave them an improved work-life balance and 47% also reported improved well-being.  The pandemic taught others to prioritise work/ life balance and re-introduced us to more outdoor pursuits and the importance of community and purpose.

Thom Dennis, CEO of Serenity In Leadership, says we are entering a new era of addressing mental health. “Whilst there has been some success over the last ten years in opening up dialogue about mental health, breaking down the stigma, and some employers are increasingly addressing trauma, anxiety and stress at work, there is a huge way to go. Long gone is the time when businesses were not involved in their team’s health, and employees just came to work, clocked in, did their work and went home again.  It really is time for businesses to understand the importance of well-being and in particular, mental health, because so many more of us are suffering and well-being has never been so important to our lives and livelihoods.

“We need to learn the lessons about well-being that the pandemic taught us and not just try to go back to the way things were.  Going backwards is a losing battle anyway which won’t work as workers have different and greater expectations than they had pre-pandemic, and you will get push back. It is in the business’s interest to help too. We have been resilient, but we need time to heal and be strong for the next lot of upheavals, and the solution is multi-faceted.”

Naomi Glover, an applied neuroscience and brain health specialist, who also runs training, coaching and consultancy company Neuro-Informed Ltd says: “Record numbers of people experienced isolation, increased stress, anxiety, trauma and grief. There are long-term dangers associated with isolation and so the partial return to the office is valuable for many, particularly younger people.  But for employees over 40, the desire to continue working remotely is compelling and may help reduce stress and burnout. One of the issues facing employers is they need to address a spectrum of mental well-being needs because different people have been affected in different ways.”

 

How can we ensure we are prioritising well-being and good mental health at work?

 

1. Don’t wait for the tipping point. Responsibility and relationships are at the heart of caring for colleagues. Leaders need to show real empathy and deal with employee uncertainty and health issues with compassion. Look for the signs of burnout, long term anxiety, pressures, trauma and grief.  Start conversations with employees and see how best you can meet their needs. Ensure your work culture does not support long-term working out of hours, holidays not being taken and poor work/life balance.

 

2. Educate and promote well-being at work. McKinsey stated that 47% of respondents want increased focus to be on employee well-being. The pandemic has provided valuable insights into how we can recover, maintain and even optimise our mental health and well-being through better food choices, meditation, yoga, social connections, exercise, being in nature and life-long learning. What’s more, taking these positive steps doesn’t just improve your mental health and well-being, it also increases your brain performance, cognitive function and helps to futureproof your brain.

 

3. Check for inequality. For example, hypothetically if women want more flexibility and to work from home, businesses need to ensure men are not getting the promotions in the meanwhile because they are more visible physically at work.

 

4. Pay well to give financial security. The cost of living crisis means many workers are grappling with the rising cost of living and struggling to make ends meet. Leaders must do what they can to ensure a fair, equal wage.

 

5. Don’t suppress trauma in organisations. A positive mindset can help but doesn’t solve all problems. Trauma, anxiety and fear cannot be left unaddressed. An empathic corporate leadership will put its people first, rather than see looking after them as a distraction.

 

6. Ensure your managers take time off. Your managers are role models and set the culture in their area of responsibility. If they are not taking holidays, that puts all sorts of pressure on those who report to them and can create a very unhealthy atmosphere. Remember also that a manager who lives alone might have a different view on, and approach to life compared to someone who has children. Both managers need to bring curiosity and an openness to empathy.

 

7. Ensure psychological safety so people can reach out. This gives individuals permission to talk about what is on their minds because they feel included, supported and safe and encouraged to not suppress themselves. When people feel safe they are more likely to bring their entire self to work (and that’s what we want).

 

8. Build community relations internally and externally. Encourage full participation, inclusion, and respect, and build mutual understanding, especially across any interpersonal and cultural divides. Define your values, optimise learning from one another, foster connections, organise training and full team events which everyone can attend.

 

9. According to a McKinsey survey, 30% of respondents say they are likely to switch jobs if returned to full onsite work. Leaders need to think about the needs of the individual as well as the requirements of the business before they lose valuable talent. The main thing is to give everyone a very clear lead which takes in the needs of both.

 

10. Build resilience by empowering. People with the most resilience find a way to emotionally heal and move forward from stress or trauma. Empowering your team often helps them build resilience. Let people play to their strengths. Have role models, mentors, collaborations, partnerships and a plan that can be continually adapted because resilience is built on life experiences and the world is constantly changing.