Private health insurance – what’s changing on April 1?
If you’re one of the 13.5 million Australians who have private health insurance, you should expect an increase in your premiums on April 1. Also, there are some key reforms planned, such as classifying private hospital cover into 4 easy-to-understand tiers….
5 things people with Down syndrome want you to know
Many years ago, if a child was born with Down syndrome, they weren’t expected to live very long or go to a normal school. They weren’t expected to have a career or get married. Thanks to advances in medicine and social…
How do you know if you’re having a migraine or a headache?
Headaches are, unfortunately, a part of life. They can be triggered by many things, from hot dogs and ice cream to swimming goggles. Nine out of 10 people have had a headache. While they are are less common, it’s estimated that…
‘Healthy’ juices might not be so good for your teeth
You probably know all about tooth decay and dental cavities — and that sugar feeds the bacteria that causes the decay. The effects of acid on teeth aren’t so well known. Not exactly the scary-looking acid that burns stuff in science-fiction movies, but the…
How to get the most out of your doctor’s appointment
Just like taxes and laundry, medical appointments are inevitable. Unless you’re a superhero, you’ll probably need to see a health professional now and again. It is fair to say that seeing the doctor — or a dentist, specialist, allied health…
5 heart health myths, busted
Heart disease is the leading underlying cause of death in Australia — and not just among the elderly. It’s also the leading cause of death for Australians aged 45 to 64. Knowing how to look after your heart is essential,…
How technology is helping people with dementia
You’ve probably heard older people joking about having a ‘senior’s moment’ or putting their car keys in the fridge. But dementia — a group of diseases that affect memory, thinking and behaviour — isn’t a joke and it isn’t a normal part…
Have a good day at work – every day
Back at work? If so, the memory of the Christmas break is probably fading fast. Eating breakfast when you feel like it and staying at the beach till sundown might be, once again, confined to the weekend. But you can…
6 New Year’s resolutions worth keeping
New Year’s resolutions — do you make the same ones nearly every year? Join a gym! Quit sugar! Stop smoking! They’re all worthwhile lifestyle changes, but sometimes they can be really hard to stick to. So, here are some practical…
How long should you stay out of the pool after diarrhoea?
Summer’s here – which means more sun, surf and swimming. Your local aquatic centre can get more crowded than the shops during Boxing Day sales. But it’s not always safe to go into the water. Health authorities, such as NSW…