health

From Opposition to Support: The Evolution of Medicaid Expansion in North Carolina

Published

3 years ago

March 28, 2023

Johnny Somith

In the world of healthcare, Medicaid expansion has been a hotly debated topic for years. North Carolina was one of the states that initially opposed expanding its program, but after several years and changes in leadership, the state has now become an advocate. In this blog post, we will explore how North Carolina’s views on Medicaid expansion have evolved over time and what impact it has had on access to healthcare for thousands of residents in need. Get ready to dive into a story of political shifts, public opinion changes, and ultimately improved health outcomes!

Background: Medicaid Expansion in North Carolina

Since the Affordable Care Act (ACA) was implemented in 2014, Medicaid has been a popular topic of discussion among state policymakers. In 2013, North Carolina became one of 23 states to accept the ACA’s Medicaid expansion, which allows individuals with incomes below 138% of the federal poverty level (FPL) to qualify for coverage through the program.

The decision to expand Medicaid was met with fierce opposition from many conservative lawmakers and groups in North Carolina. However, after extensive research and deliberation, the State Board of Health decided that expanding Medicaid would be the best approach for addressing North Carolina’s high uninsurance rates. Since 2014, North Carolina’s uninsured rate has fallen from 17% to 8%, making it one of the fastest-growing states in terms of Medicaid enrollment.[1]

The decision to expand Medicaid has been overwhelmingly supported by North Carolinians. A statewide poll conducted by Public Policy Polling in late 2017 found that 66% of registered voters support expanding Medicaid under the ACA,[2] and a recent survey commissioned by UNC Health Care found that 81% of respondents believe that expanding Medicaid is important for improving healthcare access in North Carolina.[3]

The success story of North Carolina’s Medicaid expansion demonstrates the importance of bipartisan cooperation when implementing healthcare reform measures such as Obamacare. Despite strong opposition from some politicians and groups, expanded Medicaid has been an overwhelming success in reducing uninsurance rates and improving healthcare access for low-income residents across Southern states

The Opposition to Medicaid Expansion

The North Carolina Senate voted 50-43 on March 7, 2014 to expand Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act. This vote marked a major change from when the bill initially passed out of committee in January with only one dissenting vote (Sen. Phil Berger, R-Rockingham).

Initially, the majority of North Carolinians opposed Medicaid expansion because they believed it would be too costly for the state. However, after extensive research and hearings throughout the state, many legislators changed their minds and came to support the bill as it would provide healthcare coverage to low-income individuals who couldn’t afford it on their own.

Supporters of Medicaid expansion argue that without it, thousands of people will go without health care and will end up costing taxpayers more in emergency room visits and other medical expenses. Opponents of expansion point out that if the government is going to be providing health insurance benefits to able-bodied adults, then it should do so at no cost to taxpayers through Social Security instead of through Medicaid which is funded by general tax revenue.

The Development of Support for Medicaid Expansion

Since the Affordable Care Act (ACA) was enacted in 2010, there has been a notable shift in public opinion towards Medicaid expansion in North Carolina. In early 2011, nearly 60% of North Carolinians opposed Medicaid expansion, but as of June 2017 this figure had decreased to just 38%. This change is largely attributable to the work of advocacy groups who have been tirelessly working to convince North Carolinians that Medicaid expansion is a critical part of the ACA’s mission.

The key argument for expanding Medicaid is that it would provide coverage to more than 680,000 low-income adults in North Carolina. The vast majority of these beneficiaries are children, seniors, or people with disabilities who would not be able to afford coverage on their own. Improving access to health care for vulnerable populations is one of the most important benefits of expanding Medicaid eligibility.

Another argument for expanding Medicaid is that it would generate significant fiscal savings for the state. By 2022, expanded coverage under Medicaid would cost North Carolina less than $500 million per year – a negligible amount when compared to the state’s annual budget deficit.

Despite these compelling reasons, many North Carolinians continue to be resistant to extending coverage through Medicaid. Their concerns range from fear that government programs are inevitably wasteful and unsustainable to skepticism about whether individuals who are currently ineligible will actually become eligible under an expanded program. Notwithstanding these reservations, advocates remain optimistic that eventually enough North Carolinians will come around and support an expansion of

Conclusion

The North Carolina General Assembly passed HB488, the Medicaid Expansion and Work Requirements Act, on March 7th. This bill marks a significant change in North Carolina’s Medicaid history – from opposition to support. The path to passage wasn’t easy. The bill faced intense resistance from both doctors and patients alike, with protests and rallies taking place in every corner of the state. But through persistence and hard work, lawmakers were able to pass HB488 into law. And now that it is finally here, what does this mean for North Carolinians? HB488 changes how Medicaid works in North Carolina by instituting work requirements for recipients who are newly eligible for the program. This means that not only will people need to be able to find a job that pays at least 80 percent of their monthly income, but they will also need to participate in training or substance abuse treatment programs as part of their requirements. These are big changes, and they will impact millions of people across the state. But despite the challenges involved, lawmakers were able to pass HB488 because they believe it is important that North Carolinians have access to health care – no matter their income level or status in society.

Author

Johnny Somith

View all posts

health

Personalized Medicine and Compounding Pharmacies in Surrey

Published

2 days ago

October 3, 2025

compoundingpharmacy

Reviewed
By Heidi Carlos

Introduction

In recent years, personalized medicine has emerged as one of the most innovative and effective approaches to healthcare. It focuses on tailoring treatments to individual patients based on their unique genetic makeup, lifestyle, and health conditions. As personalized medicine gains traction worldwide, compounding pharmacies in Surrey are becoming increasingly popular. These specialized pharmacies play a crucial role in offering customized medications that are formulated specifically for each patient’s needs. If you’re curious about the growing trend of personalized medicine and why compounding pharmacies are gaining popularity in Surrey, this article will provide you with valuable insights.

Understanding Personalized Medicine

Personalized medicine is a revolutionary approach to healthcare that involves designing medical treatments based on individual patients rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all approach. This practice involves several key elements, including genetic testing, lifestyle analysis, and a deeper understanding of how a person’s body responds to various treatments. The goal of personalized medicine is to ensure that each patient receives the most effective treatment for their specific condition, minimizing side effects and maximizing therapeutic outcomes.

With advancements in technology, healthcare providers can now analyze a person’s genetic profile to identify genetic mutations, risks for certain diseases, and how a patient’s body metabolizes different medications. This information is then used to customize a treatment plan that best suits the individual’s needs. This has led to a more targeted and precise approach to healthcare, improving the chances of successful outcomes.

The Role of Compounding Pharmacies in Personalized Medicine

Image by: Yandex.com

While personalized medicine has gained popularity due to its targeted approach, compounding pharmacies are essential for bringing this concept to life. Compounding pharmacies are different from traditional pharmacies in that they specialize in creating customized medications. These medications can be tailored to a patient’s specific needs, such as adjusting the dosage, removing allergens, changing the form of the drug (e.g., liquid to pill), or combining different medications into one dose.

In Surrey, compounding pharmacies have become a critical part of personalized healthcare. These pharmacies work closely with healthcare providers to create personalized treatment plans and prepare customized medications that are not available in standard prescription forms. Here are some reasons why compounding pharmacies in Surrey are gaining popularity:

1. Customized Medications for Unique Needs

One of the most significant advantages of compounding pharmacies is the ability to create medications that are tailored to a patient’s individual needs. For instance, if a patient has difficulty swallowing pills, a compounding pharmacy can create a liquid version of the medication. Similarly, if a patient is allergic to a particular ingredient in a standard medication, compounding pharmacies can remove that ingredient to create an allergy-free version. This level of customization ensures that patients get the exact medication they need in the best form for their bodies.

2. Treatment of Rare or Complex Conditions

Many patients suffer from rare or complex medical conditions that require specialized treatments not readily available in commercial pharmacies. Compounding pharmacies in Surrey are equipped to create custom medications for conditions such as hormone imbalances, chronic pain, and certain neurological disorders. For example, some patients may require specific dosages of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) that cannot be found in standard drugstores. Compounding pharmacists are skilled in preparing such formulations to meet the specific needs of these patients, ensuring more effective management of their conditions.

3. Personalized Pain Management

Pain management is one area where personalized medicine and compounding pharmacies shine. Chronic pain patients often struggle to find effective treatments, as over-the-counter medications or even standard prescriptions might not work for everyone. Compounding pharmacies can create customized pain medications that are specifically formulated for the patient’s pain type and intensity. These could be in the form of creams, gels, or oral medications, ensuring that patients get the relief they need.

By adjusting the drug’s concentration or combining various pain-relieving agents into one formula, compounding pharmacies help patients manage pain more effectively. This is especially important for those who have not responded well to traditional pain treatments or those who require a non-standard treatment approach.

4. Support for Pediatric and Geriatric Patients

Compounding pharmacies are incredibly valuable for pediatric and geriatric patients, who often have trouble with standard medications due to taste, size, or formulation. Children may find it difficult to swallow large pills or capsules, and elderly patients might have trouble with high dosages. Compounding pharmacies can create smaller, easier-to-swallow doses in liquid or flavored forms, making it easier for these patients to follow their prescribed treatment plans. Additionally, geriatric patients often require medication adjustments due to age-related changes in metabolism, which compounding pharmacies can address by customizing dosages.

5. Affordable Healthcare Solutions

In some cases, personalized medications created by compounding pharmacies can be more cost-effective than commercially available options. For instance, if a specific formulation is not available in a mass-produced version, a compounding pharmacy may be able to create a more affordable alternative. This is especially beneficial for patients who need medications that are not covered by insurance or are prohibitively expensive when purchased in their standard form.

By working directly with patients and healthcare providers, compounding pharmacies in Surrey offer affordable and accessible solutions to healthcare needs, ensuring that patients don’t have to compromise on quality or effectiveness.

6. Natural and Alternative Medicine Solutions

Many patients prefer natural or alternative remedies for their health concerns. Compounding pharmacies can prepare medications using natural ingredients, including herbal extracts, vitamins, and minerals. These formulations are ideal for patients who wish to avoid synthetic chemicals or are looking for more holistic treatment options. Whether it’s for skincare, immune support, or hormone balancing, compounding pharmacies in Surrey are adept at creating natural and effective alternatives to traditional pharmaceuticals.

Why Are Compounding Pharmacies in Surrey So Popular?

The rise of compounding pharmacies in Surrey can be attributed to several factors, all contributing to the growing demand for personalized medicine. Surrey, known for its diverse population and access to modern healthcare facilities, has seen a surge in interest in customized treatments. Here’s why compounding pharmacies are becoming more popular:

Personalized Care: Surrey residents appreciate the attention to detail and the individualized care they receive from compounding pharmacies. With more focus on the unique needs of each patient, compounding pharmacies provide personalized solutions that are not available in general pharmacies.
Advanced Technology and Expertise: Compounding pharmacies in Surrey are equipped with cutting-edge technology and highly skilled pharmacists. This ensures that they can offer the best solutions for patients with complex health needs.
Health-Conscious Community: Surrey has a growing health-conscious population that values wellness, preventive care, and natural remedies. Compounding pharmacies are well-suited to cater to these preferences, offering a variety of holistic and personalized healthcare options.

Conclusion

Personalized medicine is revolutionizing the healthcare landscape, offering customized treatments tailored to the individual needs of patients. Compounding pharmacies play a crucial role in this transformation, providing specialized medications that are not available through traditional pharmacies. In Surrey, the rise of these pharmacies can be attributed to their ability to create personalized solutions for a variety of conditions, from hormone imbalances to chronic pain management. As the demand for customized healthcare continues to grow, compounding pharmacies will remain an essential resource for patients seeking effective, individualized treatments.

Whether you’re looking for a tailored pain management plan, natural medicine options, or a medication that is specifically formulated for your body’s needs, compounding pharmacies in Surrey are ready to provide the expertise and care you need. With personalized treatment options, improved patient outcomes, and affordable solutions, the future of healthcare looks brighter than ever.

Author

compoundingpharmacy

View all posts

health

The Link Between Sleep Cycle Calculators and Mental Health

Published

3 days ago

October 2, 2025

rigahe

Reviewed
By Amaya Carlos

Introduction

Sleep is not only about hours spent in bed. It is about when we sleep and how our bodies move through natural rhythms during the night. That is where a sleep cycle calculator becomes useful. Instead of just guessing at the right bedtime it gives a more accurate window of when you should fall asleep so that you wake up at the lighter stage of sleep rather than being dragged out of deep rest. People often underestimate the way this simple shift can affect how they feel during the day.

The Connection Between Sleep and Mental Health

Anyone who has gone through a week of bad nights knows the brain feels foggy. Focus slips. Emotions run high. Even small things start to feel overwhelming. Researchers now show what many of us already suspected in daily life. Regular sleep cycles are deeply tied to mental stability and mood. Missing out on these cycles increases the risk of anxiety depression and difficulty with memory. It is not just a wellness buzzword. It is a foundation of mental health care.

How a Sleep Cycle Calculator Helps the Brain

What makes these calculators interesting is not only the numbers but the way they align with brain activity. Sleep moves through patterns of light deep and REM stages. Waking during REM or deep sleep can leave you groggy and unsettled. A sleep cycle calculator helps you plan bedtime so you wake at the end of a cycle when your brain is naturally closer to wakefulness. The difference can be remarkable. Instead of dragging yourself into the day you feel steady and present. That sense of calm has a strong link to better mood control.

Sleep Disruptions and Daily Stress

Most of us know what it is like to wake in the middle of a dream and feel off for hours. Stress at work becomes heavier. Conversations feel harder. Sleep disruption takes what might have been a normal challenge and makes it feel like a mountain. Consistent cycles smooth out those emotional bumps. By using a calculator to set a steady routine the body and mind begin to anticipate rest at the same time every night. This routine lowers cortisol the stress hormone and lets the nervous system reset.

More Than Just a Tool for Rest

It is tempting to think of these calculators as tech gimmicks. But in practice they serve as a bridge between daily life and self care. The right bedtime choice is not about chasing perfection but about creating small wins. Waking clear headed three mornings in a row can feel like a victory for someone struggling with low mood. Over weeks those wins stack up and improve resilience. Calculate Sleep has built its tool with exactly this purpose in mind making it simple to test out and adjust your sleep cycles without overthinking the process.

Where a Sleep Calculator Fits In

There is a broader family of tools people use to understand rest. A sleep calculator gives general advice on timing. A sleep time calculator can be useful when you know what time you must wake up and need to count backward to figure out the best bedtime. Both work as gentle guides rather than strict rules. What makes them valuable is their ability to turn abstract health advice into a concrete plan that fits your schedule. The goal is not to force perfect habits but to make better rest feel reachable.

Building Mental Strength Through Consistency

Mental health experts often emphasize routine. Predictable sleep is one of the strongest anchors for that routine. Once the body trusts the rhythm it lowers nightly anxiety. Tossing and turning with random bedtimes creates the opposite effect and the brain starts to fear bedtime itself. Using a sleep cycle calculator to find a regular pattern can break that loop. It builds confidence that you will actually rest and that confidence carries into your day.

Real Life Experiences People Share

A friend once told me she started testing out a calculator after months of feeling sluggish in class. She was not depressed but she felt unmotivated. Within two weeks she noticed mornings felt less like a fight. That small shift encouraged her to study more and meet friends again. Stories like this show how sleep tools are not a cure but a stepping stone. Many users online also mention using Calculate Sleep for its straightforward design which takes out the guesswork. It is not about adding stress but about removing it.

The Subtle Impact on Mood and Focus

It is easy to think that mental health changes only come with big dramatic solutions. But often the subtle changes matter more. Waking gently rather than being shocked awake makes mornings smoother. That calm feeling can ripple through the rest of the day. Over time it makes it easier to focus on work or enjoy simple conversations. The calculator is not magic but it nudges you into alignment with what your body already wants.

Where This Fits in Broader Wellness

Sleep calculators work best when paired with other habits. Good nutrition daily sunlight and limited screen time help maintain those cycles. But for many people the calculator is the entry point. It sparks awareness of how fragile sleep really is and why it deserves attention. From there users often begin to explore meditation or evening routines. This layering of small habits is what eventually supports mental health in a lasting way.

Closing Thoughts

Mental health thrives on predictability and rest is at the center of that. A sleep cycle calculator is not just a gadget. It is a reminder that our minds heal and balance themselves when given the right timing. By learning how to work with cycles instead of against them you give yourself a daily boost in clarity and mood. Even a small change in bedtime planning can make a heavy day feel lighter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Does a sleep cycle calculator really work?

Yes it is not perfect but it gives you a better chance of waking up at the right stage of sleep which helps your brain feel fresher.

Q2. Is a sleep calculator better than a sleep app?
A calculator is simpler and quicker. Apps may track more data but a basic calculator often delivers what most people actually need.

Q3. Can a sleep time calculator help with insomnia?

It may not cure insomnia but it can reduce the stress of figuring out bedtimes which is a small but meaningful support.

Q4. How can Calculate Sleep help me?

Calculate Sleep makes it easy to test your best bedtimes and stick with them. Its tool is free to use and saves you from confusing sleep science charts.

Q5. Should I use a sleep calculator every night?

Not necessarily. Once you understand your natural rhythm you may only check it when your routine changes like after travel or new work hours.

Author

rigahe

View all posts

health

Transformers Market Trends, Size, and Technology Analysis by 2035

Published

5 days ago

September 30, 2025

reenak

Reviewed
By Chloe Harper

Introduction

The Global Transformers Market Report is a comprehensive report on the Transformers market, offering key insights on business strategies, current trends, and presenting qualitative and quantitative analysis of the Transformers market. This report offers in-depth research insights on key and significant aspects of the Transformers market, providing an in-depth analysis of key drivers, restraints, restraints, growth prospects, threats, and risks. The report also includes an in-depth analysis of the competitive landscape and regional scope of the Transformers market.

The global Transformers market report employs an extremely extensive and perceptive process that analyzes statistical data relating to services and products offered in the market. The research study is a pivotal document in understanding the needs and wants of the clients. The report is comprised of significant data about the leading companies and their marketing strategies. The Transformers industry is witnessing an expansion and change of dynamics owing to the entry of several new players.

The study outlines the rapidly evolving and growing market segments along with valuable insights into each element of the industry. The industry has witnessed the entry of several new players, and the report aims to deliver insightful information about their transition and growth in the market. Mergers, acquisitions, partnerships, agreements, product launches, and joint ventures are all outlined in the report.

Market Size and Growth Projections for Transformers

The global transformers market has been steadily growing in recent years, driven by the increasing demand for electricity and the rise of renewable energy sources. According to market research, the global transformer market was valued at approximately USD 80 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6-8% through 2035.

Factors Driving Market Growth:

Rising Demand for Electricity: As urbanization continues, the need for reliable electrical infrastructure increases. Cities are expanding, and industries are growing, which requires more electricity and thus, more transformers to ensure the stable distribution of power.
Renewable Energy Integration: The world is transitioning toward renewable energy sources like solar and wind, which require specialized transformers to integrate renewable power into the grid. With this shift, transformers will play an even more important role in managing energy distribution and maintaining grid stability.
Infrastructure Upgrades: In developed nations, a major portion of the power grid infrastructure is aging and in need of replacement. This is pushing a wave of modernization and demand for new transformers, especially those that are more efficient and capable of handling fluctuating power loads.
Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Charging Infrastructure: The electric vehicle market is growing at a rapid pace. This demand for EVs necessitates the installation of more charging stations, each requiring transformers for proper operation. This is another driving force for the market’s expansion.

Key Companies Profiled in the Report are

ABB
Alstom
Bharat Heavy Electricals
Crompton Greaves
Eaton
GE
Hyundai Heavy Industries
Hitachi Energy
Hyosung Power & Industrial Systems Performance Group
Mitsubishi Electric
ORMAZABAL

Transformers Market Till 2035: Distribution by Type of Cooling (Air-cooled, and Oil-cooled), by Type of Transformers (Distribution Transformer, Instrument Transformer, Power Transformer, and others), by Type of Power Rating (Large, Medium, and Small), by Type of Insulation (Dry Type, and Liquid Immersed), by Type of Components (Cooling Unit, Converter, Insulation, Measuring Device, Pump, and Switch) by Type of Industries (Commercial, Industrial, Residential, and Utilities).

The research report offers a comprehensive regional analysis of the market with regards to production and consumption patterns, import/export, market size and share in terms of volume and value, supply and demand dynamics, and presence of prominent players in each market.

Regional Analysis Covers

North America (U.S., Canada)
Europe (U.K., Italy, Germany, France, Rest of EU)
Asia Pacific (India, Japan, China, South Korea, Australia, Rest of APAC)
Latin America (Chile, Brazil, Argentina, Rest of Latin America)
Middle East & Africa (Saudi Arabia, U.A.E., South Africa, Rest of MEA)
Rest of the World (Australia, New Zealand and Other Countries)

To know more about the report, visit @ https://www.rootsanalysis.com/transformers-market

Furthermore, the report provides analytical data in an organized format segmented into charts, tables, graphs, figures, and diagrams. This enables readers to understand the market scenario in an easy and beneficial manner. Moreover, the report aims to impart a prospective outlook and draw an informative conclusion to assist the reader in making lucrative business decisions. The report, in conclusion, provides a detailed analysis of the segments expected to dominate the market, the regional bifurcation, the estimated market size and share, and comprehensive SWOT analysis and Porter’s Five Forces Analysis.

Thank you for reading our report. For further queries, please connect with us, and our team will provide you the report best suited to your requirements.

About Roots Analysis

Roots Analysis is a global leader in the pharma / biotech market research. Having worked with over 750 clients worldwide, including Fortune 500 companies, start-ups, academia, venture capitalists and strategic investors for more than a decade, we offer a highly analytical / data-driven perspective to a network of over 450,000 senior industry stakeholders looking for credible market insights. All reports provided by us are structured in a way that enables the reader to develop a thorough perspective on the given subject. Apart from writing reports on identified areas, we provide bespoke research / consulting services dedicated to serve our clients in the best possible way.

Market Share and Regional Insights

The transformer market is geographically diverse, with different regions experiencing varying levels of growth and demand.

North America: The North American transformer market is mature, but significant growth is expected in the coming years, driven by the modernization of grids, the expansion of renewable energy, and the growing need for energy-efficient solutions.
Europe: Europe is one of the largest markets for transformers, with a strong focus on sustainability and renewable energy integration. The European Union’s commitment to carbon neutrality by 2050 is expected to drive demand for transformers that support renewable energy generation and distribution.
Asia-Pacific: The Asia-Pacific region, particularly countries like China and India, is expected to see the most rapid growth in the transformer market. Rapid urbanization, industrialization, and energy demand in these countries are driving the need for reliable power distribution systems.
Middle East & Africa: The Middle East and Africa are also seeing significant infrastructure development, which is increasing the demand for transformers in both the residential and industrial sectors.

Conclusion

The transformer market is poised for substantial growth, driven by technological advancements, the integration of renewable energy, and the increasing demand for electricity. Key trends such as smart transformers, energy-efficient solutions, and environmentally friendly designs are shaping the industry, with innovations expected to drive the market forward by 2035.

With the rise of technologies like HVDC, oil-free transformers, and IoT connectivity, the transformer industry is entering a new era of efficiency, reliability, and sustainability. As global infrastructure modernization continues and the demand for clean energy rises, transformers will play a pivotal role in ensuring that power is distributed efficiently and safely to communities worldwide. The next few decades are set to be an exciting period for the transformer market, offering ample opportunities for growth and innovation.