As most Americans are aware, the Obama family is vacationing this week on Martha's Vineyard. As summer winds down, it is tempting to sit back, relax, and enjoy the last days of the summer. However, as we have reached a critical point in the health care reform process, it is no time to take a vacation from advocating for prevention. It would be easy to just follow the news on health care reform, its trials and tribulations, and let others decide on the best plan for America. I found one article in particular troubling - Young Obama Backers AWOL from Health Care Fight. As a specific sector with interest in health care reform, the health and fitness industry needs to make sure health, wellness, and prevention are represented in the promised reform. The nation cannot afford to leave prevention out of the health care equation -our collective waistline is expanding every minute. Was your voice heard? Did you tell your story? It is not too late!
Congressional members are still on August recess in their home states, as close and approachable as they will ever be! Now is the time to schedule a meeting with your local Congressional representatives and ask for their support of the WHIP and PHIT Acts. Or, send an email.
Now, take a nap on the beach. You deserve it!
- Rosemary Lavery
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Outrage
Yesterday’s headlines probably signal the end of the “public option” in the health care plan, a measure championed by liberals and charred by conservatives. The “public option” issue, with its ability to extract vile insults from its protagonists and opposers, is tailor-made for media stories. The legislation, of course, is dreary, but the passion it induces is wonderful theater.
The theater, however, has crowded out several issues deserving of greater public awareness.
Of particular note, (this is a blog about physical activity, after all) is the lack of any provision in the health care proposals that would incentivize Americans to live healthier lifestyles. No WHIP. No PHIT.
Perhaps a few facts will help muster up enough public outrage to warrant a grainy YouTube video from a townhall meeting...
- Individuals who live unhealthy lifestyles are more likely to develop a chronic disease
- Chronic disease accounts for 75% of health care costs
- Active adults spend less money on health care
Are you outraged? Join the Campaign for a Healthier America and help lead the charge for health reform based on healthy living. Also, make sure the batteries in your video camera are charged.
- Tom Richards
The theater, however, has crowded out several issues deserving of greater public awareness.
Of particular note, (this is a blog about physical activity, after all) is the lack of any provision in the health care proposals that would incentivize Americans to live healthier lifestyles. No WHIP. No PHIT.
Perhaps a few facts will help muster up enough public outrage to warrant a grainy YouTube video from a townhall meeting...
- Individuals who live unhealthy lifestyles are more likely to develop a chronic disease
- Chronic disease accounts for 75% of health care costs
- Active adults spend less money on health care
Are you outraged? Join the Campaign for a Healthier America and help lead the charge for health reform based on healthy living. Also, make sure the batteries in your video camera are charged.
- Tom Richards
Monday, August 17, 2009
Everyday Leaders Bring Health Reform to Life
Joe Moore, IHRSA's President and CEO appears on the homepage of the Washington Post with a guest column in the "Focus on Leadership." While Congress is busy debating the various health care reform bills, Mr. Moore writes "Leaders must emerge from all industries, sectors, and corners of the country, while existing leaders must make the health of their followers, employees and students a priority." Read the full column.
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