http://www.health-matters.co.uk RSS_DESCRIPTION en-us http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/national-smile-month-2013---help-your-employees-look-after-their-oral-health Tue, 21 May 2013 09:00:00 +0000 National Smile Month started yesterday. It is a month long event that runs from 20th May to 20th June organised by the British Dental Association. The event was started in 1973 as National Smile Week but has since grown into National Smile Month.  http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/national-smile-month-2013---help-your-employees-look-after-their-oral-health http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/hr-in-housing-conference-and-exhibition Thu, 16 May 2013 09:00:00 +0000 Health Matters are attending the HR in Housing Conference and Exhibition in London 16/5/2013 http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/hr-in-housing-conference-and-exhibition http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/ensuring-quality-healthcare-for-bupa-members Mon, 13 May 2013 09:00:00 +0000 An update to hospital list from BUPA to members http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/ensuring-quality-healthcare-for-bupa-members http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/hay-fever-is-set-to-soar Mon, 29 Apr 2013 09:00:00 +0000 Hay fever is set to soar this year ! Experts have predicted that the pollen count will rocket until June following a cold March and April. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/hay-fever-is-set-to-soar http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/truth-or-myth---is-time-of-work-the-best-approach-to-dealing-with-depression--stress Fri, 19 Apr 2013 09:00:00 +0000 Myth! http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/truth-or-myth---is-time-of-work-the-best-approach-to-dealing-with-depression--stress http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-matters-at-the-housing-finance-exhibition-2013 Wed, 20 Mar 2013 09:00:00 +0000 Visit Health Matters and Valentine Occupational Health at our stand at the Housing Finance Exhibition 2013 http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-matters-at-the-housing-finance-exhibition-2013 http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-matters-are-at-the-health-and-well-being-exhibition-at-the-nec-birmingham Tue, 05 Mar 2013 09:00:00 +0000 Visit Health Matters and Valentine Occupational Health at our stand at the Health and well-being exhibition at nec http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-matters-are-at-the-health-and-well-being-exhibition-at-the-nec-birmingham http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-matters-stand-at-the-leaders-forum-exhibition-february-2013 Mon, 25 Feb 2013 09:00:00 +0000 Health Matters have a stand at the Leaders Forum Exhibition. Feel free to come down and have a talk with one of our trained advisors. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-matters-stand-at-the-leaders-forum-exhibition-february-2013 http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/how-eaps-reduce-the-cost-of-absence Mon, 04 Feb 2013 09:00:00 +0000 To download this article in a PDF click here http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/how-eaps-reduce-the-cost-of-absence http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/eap-tax-relief-to-be-retained Mon, 28 Jan 2013 09:00:00 +0000 The Government has now officially confirmed Tax Relief on Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) to be retained. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/eap-tax-relief-to-be-retained http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/sickness-absence-management Thu, 10 Jan 2013 09:00:00 +0000 Sickness Absence Management or SAM is now more important than ever for employers of all organisations. The way in which an organisation deals with workplace absence will have a huge impact on the business as a whole. With the UK’s absence epidemic costing around £6. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/sickness-absence-management http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/new-year-resolutions--are-you-sticking-to-yours Thu, 03 Jan 2013 09:00:00 +0000 Wishing you a happy and healthy new year. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/new-year-resolutions--are-you-sticking-to-yours http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/employee-benefits-live-exhibition-prize-draw Wed, 28 Nov 2012 09:00:00 +0000 Simon Hurley-Smith of Health Matters handing over the champagne to Vicky Rose, the winner of the Employee Benefits Live Exhibition Prize Draw. Congratulations Vicky. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/employee-benefits-live-exhibition-prize-draw http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/are-eaps-really-confidential Wed, 21 Nov 2012 09:00:00 +0000 Completely. Confidentiality is at the heart of the Employee Assistance Programme and the telephone advisors and counsellors are bound by their professional Code of Practice. When you contact the service, the only information you need to provide is the name of the organisation you work for. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/are-eaps-really-confidential http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/bupas-response-to-watchdog-programme--following-the-watchdog-programme-on-bbc1-we-attach-bupas-response Thu, 01 Nov 2012 09:00:00 +0000 “You may have seen last night’s ‘Watchdog’ programme on BBC1, which featured an item about recent changes made to consultant reimbursement rates by Bupa and AXA. Following the programme, Bupa wanted to provide customers with some information to answer your questions. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/bupas-response-to-watchdog-programme--following-the-watchdog-programme-on-bbc1-we-attach-bupas-response http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/analysis-duty-of-care Wed, 17 Oct 2012 09:00:00 +0000 Helping employers meet their requirements. Report by Sam Barrett for the Health Insurance & Protection e-Magazine http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/analysis-duty-of-care http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/employee-benefits-live-draw Tue, 02 Oct 2012 09:00:00 +0000 The employee benefits live draw for the bottle of champagne will be made on 12th October. Please let us know if you still want to enter! http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/employee-benefits-live-draw http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/is-your-employee-benefits-portfolio-working-for-you Thu, 13 Sep 2012 09:00:00 +0000 In a world of tight budgets and pay freezes, your employee benefits package is crucial in helping to retain top talent. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/is-your-employee-benefits-portfolio-working-for-you http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/handy-tips-to-promote-and-get-the-most-out-of-your-hmap--eap Mon, 03 Sep 2012 09:00:00 +0000 Integrating the HMAP as part of the Employee Appraisal Process Integrating the HMAP as part of the Return-to-Work Interview Integrating the HMAP as part of the Disciplinary Procedure Recorded within the Company Official Staff Handbook Placement of Information Posters to all Staff Notice Boards The periodic redistribution of HMAP Wallet-Cards to all Staff Electronic distribution of the Monthly Employee Support Bulletins Incorporating the HMAP into the Company Intranet including the HMAP support portal (password protected) Incorporating the HMAP Media Presentation: http://www. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/handy-tips-to-promote-and-get-the-most-out-of-your-hmap--eap http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/it-pays-to-invest-in-a-healthy-workforce Mon, 03 Sep 2012 09:00:00 +0000 The recent publication of the 'Sickness Absence Review', commissioned by the Department of Work and Pensions, has put the spotlight on health and well-being as a strategic business priority. Increasingly, companies of all sizes are recognising the value of investing in a broad range of health and well-being services, challenging the assumption that workplace health is simply a benefit or perk for senior managers. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/it-pays-to-invest-in-a-healthy-workforce http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/new-from-bupa--consultant-and-facilities-finder Mon, 03 Sep 2012 09:00:00 +0000 In September Bupa has launched Finder, a new search engine on Bupa's website which hosts a wealth of information about Bupa recognised healthcare professionals and facilities including consultants, therapists and hospitals. It also includes Bupa dental clinics, wellbeing centres and care homes which are available online at finder. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/new-from-bupa--consultant-and-facilities-finder http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-matters-at-the-social-housing-exhbition-2012 Tue, 21 Aug 2012 09:00:00 +0000 http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-matters-at-the-social-housing-exhbition-2012 http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/occupational-health--health-surveillance Thu, 16 Aug 2012 09:00:00 +0000 Health Surveillance is an ever persistent need in today’s workplace with numerous regulations for companies to abide by. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/occupational-health--health-surveillance http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/influenza--its-that-time-of-the-year-again-1 Tue, 14 Aug 2012 09:00:00 +0000 Influenza, or 'flu', is a highly contagious acute viral infection that affects people of all ages and this includes your workforce. It typically starts suddenly with fever, chills, headache, aching muscles, extreme fatigue and a cough or other breathing difficulties and is contagious. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/influenza--its-that-time-of-the-year-again-1 http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/pruhealth---employee-eligibility-requirements Thu, 09 Aug 2012 09:00:00 +0000 Reminder http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/pruhealth---employee-eligibility-requirements http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/multi-million-pound-investment-in-bupa-dentistry Tue, 17 Jul 2012 09:00:00 +0000 Bupa is announcing a multi-million pound investment to grow their dental business and become one of the largest private dental chains in the UK by 2015. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/multi-million-pound-investment-in-bupa-dentistry http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/aviva---our-cancer-pledge-just-got-even-better Thu, 12 Jul 2012 09:00:00 +0000 Further improvements to our Cancer Pledge You may remember that we enhanced our cancer cover at the beginning of the year and introduced our cancer pledge. As one of the market leaders in health insurance we are always looking to provide improved levels of cover which are really clear and easy to understand. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/aviva---our-cancer-pledge-just-got-even-better http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/auto-enrolment-blog Tue, 03 Jul 2012 09:00:00 +0000 Pension auto enrolment is fast approaching for companies of all different sizes. No doubt many of you will have got your pension company or adviser working on this for you but have you thought about what you might do about any associated Group Protection scheme that are linked to pension membership such as Group Life Assurance or Group Income Protection. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/auto-enrolment-blog http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/the-institute-of-sales--marketing-management Fri, 29 Jun 2012 09:00:00 +0000   http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/the-institute-of-sales--marketing-management http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/bupa-select-experience-rated-open-referral-pricing Mon, 30 Apr 2012 09:00:00 +0000 I have pleasure in attaching an update on Open Referral which has been produced following a number of requests from our Intermediary Partners. This provides further information around Open Referral pricing, both in terms of the immediate pricing impact and also how we expect the pricing differential to change in subsequent years. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/bupa-select-experience-rated-open-referral-pricing http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/update-for-bupa-members-on-additional-back-care-service Fri, 30 Mar 2012 09:00:00 +0000 As many as four in five of us suffer back pain at some point in our lives. In most cases it improves on its own in under a week, but for some people the symptoms can persist. If you’re affected, getting the right treatment can make all the difference to your recovery. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/update-for-bupa-members-on-additional-back-care-service http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/employee-assistance-professionals-association-eapa Mon, 26 Mar 2012 09:00:00 +0000 The UK EAPA is a branch of the EAP Association based in the USA. The primary purpose of EAPA is to promote the highest standards of practice and the continuing development of employee assistance professionals, programmes and services. EAPA is the professional benchmark for the EAP market and sets the national standards of practice and guidelines for EAPs. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/employee-assistance-professionals-association-eapa http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/beat-the-bupa-wellness-price-increase-for-2012 Fri, 02 Mar 2012 09:00:00 +0000 Bupa Wellness will be increasing their rates from the 1st April by 4%. The new rates can be found by clicking on the image below. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/beat-the-bupa-wellness-price-increase-for-2012 http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/update-for-housing-sector-organisations Thu, 23 Feb 2012 09:00:00 +0000 Latest update for Housing Sector organisations: http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/update-for-housing-sector-organisations http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/pip-implants Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:00:00 +0000 Some of you will have seen the headlines about faulty breast implants supplied by Poly Implant Prosthesis (PIP) that have leaked. French, German and Dutch health authorities have recommended that women fitted with PIP implants should have them removed as a precaution. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/pip-implants http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/sickness-absence---the-frostblack-review Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:00:00 +0000 In February 2011 the Government called for a major review of the sickness absence system in order to tackle the millions of lost days every year due to sickness absence. The review was jointly chaired by David Frost CBE and Professor Dame Carol Black and was released in late November 2011. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/sickness-absence---the-frostblack-review http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/ensuring-you-have-the-right-eap Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:00:00 +0000 Health Matters has a stellar reputation within the EAP field by providing only the very best of EAP provision, and then ensuring that the service is properly account managed. We hold dear the true values of the EAP which is why as a responsible Intermediary we only recommend EAP Providers that are full members of EAPA (Employee Assistance Professionals Associations) and that meet with a rigorous criteria. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/ensuring-you-have-the-right-eap http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/do-you-have-a-back-up-plan Mon, 16 Jan 2012 09:00:00 +0000 It may or may not have escaped your attention but Britain is currently gripped by a financial crisis which is unprecedented for the majority of people across the UK. For a lot of families, this has placed greater emphasis on the control and management of family finances with a clear focus on looking to the future and being prepared for any storms that lurk across the horizon. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/do-you-have-a-back-up-plan http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/bupas-latest-hospital-directory Tue, 10 Jan 2012 09:00:00 +0000 After the recent changes to the Bupa network of Bupa facilities, we thought that you would find it helpful to have access to the latest Bupa recognised hospitals listing as a pdf. The current list is now available online as a convenient PDF. Click Here to see the updated listing. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/bupas-latest-hospital-directory http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/axa-ppp-important-changes-heart--cancer-commitment Mon, 09 Jan 2012 09:00:00 +0000 AXAPPP have new Heart & Cancer Commitments on their medical insurance http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/axa-ppp-important-changes-heart--cancer-commitment http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/bupa-removes-further-bmi-hospitals-from-recognised-hospital-lists Tue, 03 Jan 2012 09:00:00 +0000 BUPA and BMI Hospitals have failed to mutually agree the BMI charges for treating BUPA members from 1st January 2012. Subsequently BUPA have made the decision to remove further BMI hospitals from their Recognised Hospital lists with immediate effect. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/bupa-removes-further-bmi-hospitals-from-recognised-hospital-lists http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/employee-benefits-live-2011-champagne-prize-winner Wed, 28 Dec 2011 09:00:00 +0000 We are proud to announce that the winner of the Employee Benefits Live 2011 Champagne draw is Dawn McKenzie, HR Services Manager at Network Housing. Martine Malone from Health Matters presented Dawn with the winning bottle of Venve Clicquot Champagne earlier in December. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/employee-benefits-live-2011-champagne-prize-winner http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/the-sickness-and-absence-review Tue, 13 Dec 2011 09:00:00 +0000 The Sickness and Absence review conducted by Dame Carol Black and ex-British Chamber of Commerce Director General, David Frost, was published in November. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/the-sickness-and-absence-review http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/bupas-removal-of-12-hospitals-from-their-hospital-directory Thu, 01 Dec 2011 09:00:00 +0000 Following BUPA's recent announcement to remove 12 BMI hospitals from their 'recognised' hospital list as of January 2012 we want to take this opportunity to update out clients on the situation and give you the facts. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/bupas-removal-of-12-hospitals-from-their-hospital-directory http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-matters-customer-satisfaction-survey Thu, 24 Nov 2011 09:00:00 +0000 During September 2011 we undertook a web-based Customer Satisfaction Survey and we are particularly proud of the results. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-matters-customer-satisfaction-survey http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/the-alcohol-concern-charter Mon, 14 Nov 2011 09:00:00 +0000 According to the Alcohol Concern website: http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/the-alcohol-concern-charter http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/if-youre-feeling-stressed-talking-about-it-can-help-health-matters-assistance-programme-hmap Fri, 04 Nov 2011 09:00:00 +0000 What is stress? http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/if-youre-feeling-stressed-talking-about-it-can-help-health-matters-assistance-programme-hmap http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/aviva-enhance-their-cancer-cover-for-their-pmi-customers Fri, 04 Nov 2011 09:00:00 +0000 From 1st January AVIVA are making improvements to their cancer stance. This is called their ‘Cancer Pledge’ which reads: http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/aviva-enhance-their-cancer-cover-for-their-pmi-customers http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/bupa-britains-largest-pmi-provider-launches-controversial-shake-up Mon, 31 Oct 2011 09:00:00 +0000 All Bupa's Corporate Select customers will have to choose from a list of consultants selected by Bupa, from January 2012, the insurer has announced, in a move that represents a huge shake-up of the private medical insurance (PMI) market. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/bupa-britains-largest-pmi-provider-launches-controversial-shake-up http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/hmrc-tax-guidelines-in-relation-to-employee-assistance-programmes-eap Mon, 31 Oct 2011 09:00:00 +0000 Prior to the budget statement in March of this year the Office for Tax Simplification published a series of recommendations including the removal of tax relief on Employee Assistance Programmes (EAP) and Welfare Counselling services. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/hmrc-tax-guidelines-in-relation-to-employee-assistance-programmes-eap http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/2011-anti-bullying-week Wed, 26 Oct 2011 09:00:00 +0000 14th – 18th November is Anti-Bullying Week. It’s an annual campaign run by Anti-Bullying Alliance, a network made up of 130 different organisations. With the slogan ‘Stop and think – words can hurt’, this year’s activity will focus on tackling verbal bullying. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/2011-anti-bullying-week http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/employee-benefits-live Mon, 15 Aug 2011 09:00:00 +0000 Health Matters will once again be exhibiting at the Employee Benefits Live at the Business Design Bureau in Islington, London. The event is held on the 27th and 28th September. We will be at stand 30 and will have a prize draw for a fabulous bottle of Venue Clicquot Champagne. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/employee-benefits-live http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/influenza--its-that-time-of-the-year-again Fri, 05 Aug 2011 09:00:00 +0000 Influenza, or 'flu', is a highly contagious acute viral infection that affects people of all ages and this includes your workforce. It typically starts suddenly with fever, chills, headache, aching muscles, extreme fatigue and a cough or other breathing difficulties and is contagious. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/influenza--its-that-time-of-the-year-again http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-matters-assistance-programme-who-why-and-what-options Tue, 26 Jul 2011 09:00:00 +0000 The Employee Assistance Programme market is being heavily commoditised over the past few years with many providers sacrificing quality of service for reduced rates and market share. Many companies are looking to buy the cheapest Employee Assistance Programme available to tick the health and safety box and not really considering the wider uses and benefits of having a fully integrated and promoted Employee Assistance Programme (EAP). http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-matters-assistance-programme-who-why-and-what-options http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/life-beings-at-40-well-in-my-case-almost-40 Tue, 26 Jul 2011 09:00:00 +0000 A quick introduction, my name is Brian Taylor and my role at Health Matters is to head-up wellbeing services and in particular to look after all things relating to our Employee Assistance Programmes and of course to look after our EAP clients. A job that I enjoy immensely and take a considerable amount of personal pride in. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/life-beings-at-40-well-in-my-case-almost-40 http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/coping-with-trauma Tue, 26 Jul 2011 09:00:00 +0000 A Support Pamphlet for Staff Involved in Critical Incidents The content of this email is not meant to replace your organisations current policies and procedures, which should be adhered to at all times. If you have any concerns regarding this please contact your HR department http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/coping-with-trauma http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/agency-worker-regulations---the-impact-for-employers Tue, 26 Jul 2011 09:00:00 +0000 On 1st October 2011 the new Agency Workers regulations come into force. This will give agency workers with contracts over 12 weeks the same basic working conditions and rights as their employed colleagues. This includes areas such as parity in basic annual salary, holiday allowances and rest breaks. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/agency-worker-regulations---the-impact-for-employers http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/eaps-take-top-spot-on-leaderboard-of-core-healthcare-benefits Tue, 14 Jun 2011 09:00:00 +0000 According to the Employee Benefits Healthcare Research 2011, EAPs are ranked top with 73% of organisations offering them to some or all staff as a core benefit. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/eaps-take-top-spot-on-leaderboard-of-core-healthcare-benefits http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/the-ehic-or-european-health-insurance-card Wed, 18 May 2011 09:00:00 +0000 The EHIC, or European Health Insurance Card, is free and it can get you free or discounted medical care in all of the 27 EU countries. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/the-ehic-or-european-health-insurance-card http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/pru-health-cancer-cover-policy Tue, 03 May 2011 09:00:00 +0000 What is PRU Health's cancer cover policy? Please see the document below for details:   PRU Health Cancer Cover Policy pdf document     http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/pru-health-cancer-cover-policy http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-insurance-magazine-guide-to-cancer-drugs Tue, 12 Apr 2011 09:00:00 +0000 Please click on the link below to get a copy of the Health Insurance Magazines latest guide to cancer drugs. This gives a very good overview of the use of cancer drugs in the NHS and Private market places together with cost and the future. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-insurance-magazine-guide-to-cancer-drugs http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/matters-of-the-heart Thu, 07 Apr 2011 09:00:00 +0000 Have you ever noticed how medical professionals speak a different language to the rest of us? Terminology that is used amongst them can often be misleading and in some cases frightening when directed at the rest of us. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/matters-of-the-heart http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/a-dogs-tale Fri, 01 Apr 2011 09:00:00 +0000 It said that man’s best friend is not only a faithful companion but can also make us healthier. “Dogs help us reach exercise targets,” according to new research. Owners are 34% more likely to hit exercise targets as they walk their pets regularly. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/a-dogs-tale http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/nhs-waiting-time-drive-halted-in-bid-to-reduce-costs Thu, 31 Mar 2011 09:00:00 +0000 The NHS is limiting access to hospital care and halting a reduction in waiting times in order to contain costs, the NHS Confederation has confirmed. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/nhs-waiting-time-drive-halted-in-bid-to-reduce-costs http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/a-fifth-of-brits-delay-dental-care-sue-to-costs Tue, 29 Mar 2011 09:00:00 +0000 Just over a quarter (26%) of adults say the type of dental treatment they chose in the past has been affected by the cost of the treatment, according to official statistics published today. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/a-fifth-of-brits-delay-dental-care-sue-to-costs http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/bupa-removes-cancer-limits Tue, 29 Mar 2011 09:00:00 +0000 http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/bupa-removes-cancer-limits http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-insurance-for-migrants-still-a-possibility Tue, 29 Mar 2011 09:00:00 +0000 The Government will continue to explore the possibility of requiring visitors from overseas to take out health insurance before arriving in England, according to its response to an earlier consultation on the issue. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-insurance-for-migrants-still-a-possibility http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/bupa-abandons-cancer-cost-and-time-limits Mon, 28 Mar 2011 09:00:00 +0000 Bupa has announced it will no longer sell corporate private medical insurance (PMI) schemes which feature overall cost or time limits for cancer treatment. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/bupa-abandons-cancer-cost-and-time-limits http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/are-you-a-fat-burner-or-storer Fri, 25 Mar 2011 09:00:00 +0000 Most bodies today are in fat storing mode due to: eating foods that provide no energy i.e.: Hi fat, high calorie foods that lack Nutrition, that create lethargy or the slowing of the metabolism. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/are-you-a-fat-burner-or-storer http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/stress-and-its-affects Mon, 21 Mar 2011 09:00:00 +0000 Stress affects everyone at some point during an individual’s lifetime. The reasons behind us becoming stressed can come from a wide variety of different situations and lifestyle choices. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/stress-and-its-affects http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/holiday-pay-and-sickness-absence Mon, 21 Mar 2011 09:00:00 +0000 GR Update holiday pay and sickness pay PDF information: http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/holiday-pay-and-sickness-absence http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/over-1-billion-funding-shortfall-in-social-care Thu, 17 Mar 2011 09:00:00 +0000 By 2014 Social Care within England will be looking at a funding shortfall in excess of £1bn pounds. Such a shortfall in social care funding would no doubt see the NHS of the day facing serious consequences. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/over-1-billion-funding-shortfall-in-social-care http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/testimonial---comments-from-a-satisfied-customer Thu, 17 Mar 2011 09:00:00 +0000 East Midlands based EAP customer: “ We have been fully supported by PPC worldwide and the HMAP service has come into great effect since the incident. I have had many staff come up to me and praise HMAP and thank me personally for flying the flag within the organisation and promoting the service throughout the year. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/testimonial---comments-from-a-satisfied-customer http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/changing-attitudes-to-gyms-and-health-and-fitness Fri, 11 Mar 2011 09:00:00 +0000 Ever since PruHealth made the connection between Private medical insurance and gym membership five years ago, other health insurance providers and hospital groups have been entering into partnerships with the UK's growing health club industry. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/changing-attitudes-to-gyms-and-health-and-fitness http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/book-now-to-beat-the-bupa-price-increase Fri, 04 Mar 2011 09:00:00 +0000 It has got to that time of year again when BUPA Wellness begin to look at the prices for their health screens. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/book-now-to-beat-the-bupa-price-increase http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/national-no-smoking-day---11th-march-2011 Thu, 03 Mar 2011 09:00:00 +0000 On Wednesday 09th March many companies and organisations throughout the UK will be taking part in the nations annual 'No Smoking Day'. Promoting a healthier lifestyle and encouraging employees that smoke to kick the habit. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/national-no-smoking-day---11th-march-2011 http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/european-court-of-justice-gender-ruling---impact-on-private-medical-insurance Tue, 01 Mar 2011 09:00:00 +0000 The European Court of Justice (ECJ) has today announced that the use of gender in underwriting will be outlawed from 21 December 2012. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/european-court-of-justice-gender-ruling---impact-on-private-medical-insurance http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/womens-breast-cancer-reported-to-be-on-the-increase Tue, 08 Feb 2011 09:00:00 +0000 Latest recorded statistics show that around 1 in 8 women will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of their lifetime.  Until recently this figure was calculated to be around 1 in 9 women would develop breast cancer.   The increase could be a result of a number of possible factors such as more women are now choosing to get screened for breast cancer. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/womens-breast-cancer-reported-to-be-on-the-increase http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/simplyhealth-has-launched-a-new-cash-plan-aimed-at-people-aged-70-and-over Fri, 28 Jan 2011 09:00:00 +0000 It follows research conducted by the provider which indicated that affordability was key to maintaining the health and wellbeing of the nation's ageing population. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/simplyhealth-has-launched-a-new-cash-plan-aimed-at-people-aged-70-and-over http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/government-to-remove-the-default-retirement-age-dra-completely Fri, 28 Jan 2011 09:00:00 +0000 The government has confirmed its intention to remove the Default Retirement Age (DRA) completely. This begins on 6 April 2011 and the DRA will be fully abolished on 1 October 2011. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/government-to-remove-the-default-retirement-age-dra-completely http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-matters-launches-community-outreach-programme-cop Fri, 28 Jan 2011 09:00:00 +0000 Health Matters launches Community Outreach Programme encouraging children to take part in sporting events http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-matters-launches-community-outreach-programme-cop http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/reasonable-and-customary-charges-for-private-medical-insurance Tue, 25 Jan 2011 09:00:00 +0000 Virtually all Private Medical Insurance companies use a system called reasonable and customary when it comes to prices charged by consultants and other specialists. Many private medical insurance customers are not aware of this and may not be told about this until they are making a claim or even not brought to their attention until they receive the bill in the post for the shortfall. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/reasonable-and-customary-charges-for-private-medical-insurance http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/important-update-default-retirement-age-removal Thu, 13 Jan 2011 09:00:00 +0000 Today, the Department of Business Innovation and Skills (BIS) has confirmed the phasing out of the Default Retirement Age (DRA) between 6 April and 1 October 2011. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/important-update-default-retirement-age-removal http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/increase-in-insurance-premium-tax-from-today Wed, 05 Jan 2011 09:00:00 +0000 From the 4th January 2011 the government has increase the level of insurance premium tax levied on the price you pay for any insures products. This will affect all types of insurance contracts from private medical insurance, car insurance to home insurance. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/increase-in-insurance-premium-tax-from-today http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/retirement-age-removal Wed, 05 Jan 2011 09:00:00 +0000 2011 brings a raft of legislation (Default Retirement Age removal, NEST, impact of the spending review and modification of scheme rules to name but a few), an uncertain future of economic growth and challenging times for insurers, advisers and employers. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/retirement-age-removal http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/denplan-dental-benefits-survey-2010 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 09:00:00 +0000 The dental benefits survey is conducted by Denplan on a regular basis to get a snap shot of the attitudes towards dental plans, dental providers and the marketplace. It is a very useful barometer of how companies view their existing and future benefits spends. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/denplan-dental-benefits-survey-2010 http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/the-cost-of-sickness-absence--see-how-a-cash-plan-can-help Wed, 01 Dec 2010 09:00:00 +0000 Have you considered how much sickness and absence is costing your company? Westfield Health, a cash plan provider, have produced a very clear equation for companies to access how much money they are spending or losing on everyday medical treatments and general short term absence. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/the-cost-of-sickness-absence--see-how-a-cash-plan-can-help http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/voluntary-or-cost-effective-employee-benefits-what-do-you-look-for Thu, 11 Nov 2010 09:00:00 +0000 I am constantly being asked by our clients to look at ways to save them to save time and money. I thought that it might be a good idea to share some of the solutions I have proposed. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/voluntary-or-cost-effective-employee-benefits-what-do-you-look-for http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/hm-employee-benefits-show-prize-winner Wed, 10 Nov 2010 09:00:00 +0000 Health Matter recently had a stand at the Employee Benefits Live exhibition at Islington. As part of the show we had a Venve Clicquot Champagne prize draw. We are delighted to announce the winner was Andrea Patmore of EMI Music. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/hm-employee-benefits-show-prize-winner http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/axa-ppp-healthcare-ipt-and-vat-information Wed, 10 Nov 2010 09:00:00 +0000 Here is a PDF in relation to IPT and VAT in respect of the changes AXA PPP healthcare will make in relation to the increases announced by the Government on 22nd June 2010. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/axa-ppp-healthcare-ipt-and-vat-information http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/whats-the-right-weight-and-not-eating-well Mon, 04 Oct 2010 09:00:00 +0000 If you're overweight you increase your risk of having a heart attack or stroke, and are more likely to develop arthritis, diabetes, high blod pressure, back ache and other debilitating conditions. Losing weight will not only improve your health, but also make you look and feel a new person. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/whats-the-right-weight-and-not-eating-well http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/bupa-health-assessments-25-exclusive-discount Mon, 20 Sep 2010 09:00:00 +0000 Health Matters has team up with BUPA Wellness to provide our clients with an exclusive 25% discount off the standard health screen retail price. This is an unbeatable discount which is only for a limited period.   Booking is easy please call our specialist team on 0800 988 0085 or via email at service@health-matters. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/bupa-health-assessments-25-exclusive-discount http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/employers-are-buying-in-eaps-to-tackle-workplace-conflict Thu, 02 Sep 2010 09:00:00 +0000 An independent survey recently showed that UK Employers are looking to top-level Employee Assistance Programmes' (EAP) as a major part of their management strategy for not only tackling stress in the workplace but also for dealing with workplace conflict. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/employers-are-buying-in-eaps-to-tackle-workplace-conflict http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/nutrition-a-z-of-vitamins-and-minerals Thu, 02 Sep 2010 09:00:00 +0000 People have varying views as to what a healthy diet consists of. However, what is right for you – and what you will enjoy – is another matter. Healthy diets can become short term fads, finding a diet that you can depend on and you know is healthy is far more useful. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/nutrition-a-z-of-vitamins-and-minerals http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/besma-event-on-the-27th-may Fri, 11 Jun 2010 09:00:00 +0000 James Henson, HM Sales Director (pictured left) attended the prestigious BESMA event on the 27th May, held at the Lancaster London Hotel.  The BESMA (British Excellence In Sales & Marketing Awards) is an annual ceremony presented by the ISMM (Institute of Sales & Marketing Management). http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/besma-event-on-the-27th-may http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/jonathan-driffill-of-friendship-care-and-housing Mon, 26 Apr 2010 09:00:00 +0000 Following the National Housing Federation’s (NHF) Leaders’ Forum held back in March at the Lancaster London Hotel, Health Matters has drawn at random our winner of the Prize-Draw namely Jonathan Driffill (Left) of Friendship Care and Housing. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/jonathan-driffill-of-friendship-care-and-housing http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/when-in-the-gym Mon, 19 Apr 2010 09:00:00 +0000 Health Matters actively encourages a positive lifestyle including healthy eating and keeping fit. Many people excerise from time to time, whether hopping on an exercise bike at home or going for a jog around the block. However joining a gym for health benefits takes your workout to a new level. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/when-in-the-gym http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/new-fit-note-to-replace-doctors-sick-note Fri, 26 Mar 2010 09:00:00 +0000 Statement of Fitness for Work (Fit Note) Returning to work after illness http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/new-fit-note-to-replace-doctors-sick-note http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-matters-sponsors-schools-super-8-biathlon Mon, 15 Mar 2010 09:00:00 +0000 It is not every day that you have the chance to meet a UK Olympic medalist. For over 90 girls from Bablake Senior and Junior School, Solihull, Holy Trinity Primary (Kidderminster) and Allesley Park Primary, that dream has just come true. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-matters-sponsors-schools-super-8-biathlon http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-matters-attend-the-leaders-forum-and-exhibition-2010-london Fri, 12 Mar 2010 09:00:00 +0000 The 2010 Leaders' Forum and Exhibition was held at the Lancaster London Hotel, London on 11th - 12th March.  Health Matters was delighted to have had the opportunity to be at event hosting an exhibition-stand over the two days.   Simon Hurley-Smith, HM Managing Director (pictured below) along with Brian Taylor, Head of Wellbeing Services spent the time at the show meeting with existing Housing Association clients and prospective new clients' alike. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-matters-attend-the-leaders-forum-and-exhibition-2010-london http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-and-wellbeing-exhibition-at-the-nec-2010 Thu, 11 Mar 2010 09:00:00 +0000 Health & Wellbeing at Work is the UK's leading event for HR and occupational health professional, rehabilitation and therapy specialists, disability employment advisors, ergonomists and other professionals responsible for the environment, health and wellbeing of work-aged people. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-and-wellbeing-exhibition-at-the-nec-2010 http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/axa-ppp-healthcare-cancer-cover-policy Mon, 08 Mar 2010 09:00:00 +0000 What is AXA PPP Healthcare cancer cover policy? Please see the document below for details:   AXA PPP Healthcare Cancer Cover Policy pdf document   http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/axa-ppp-healthcare-cancer-cover-policy http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/groupama-cancer-cover-policy Fri, 05 Mar 2010 09:00:00 +0000 Whats is Groupama's cancer cover policy? Please see the document below for details:   Groupama Cancer Cover Policy pdf document   http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/groupama-cancer-cover-policy http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/simplyhealth-cancer-cover-policy Wed, 03 Mar 2010 09:00:00 +0000 What is Simplyhealth's cancer cover policy? please see the document below for details:   Simplyhealth Cancer Cover Policy pdf document   http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/simplyhealth-cancer-cover-policy http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/aviva-cancer-cover-policy Tue, 02 Mar 2010 09:00:00 +0000 What is Aviva's cancer cover policy? Please see the document below for details:   Aviva Cancer Cover Policy PDF Document     http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/aviva-cancer-cover-policy http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-matters-community-outreach-programme Mon, 08 Feb 2010 09:00:00 +0000 Welcome to the Health Matters Community Outreach Programme (COP). At Health Matters we recognise the need to make a positive contribution to the community. The concept of thinking globally and acting locally is not lost on us – this is our corporate social responsibility. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-matters-community-outreach-programme http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/new-breakthrough-in-cancer-treatments Thu, 17 Dec 2009 09:00:00 +0000   http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/new-breakthrough-in-cancer-treatments http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/boosting-morale-in-the-workplace Tue, 01 Dec 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Getting the best out of your workforce   We spend most of our waking lives at work. For most people, work is an enjoyable, challenging experience. But for some, an unfulfilling job or poorly run workplace can leave them feeling undervalued, apathetic or even stressed. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/boosting-morale-in-the-workplace http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/vat-rate-changes Mon, 30 Nov 2009 09:00:00 +0000   http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/vat-rate-changes http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/eap---industry-news-update Wed, 25 Nov 2009 09:00:00 +0000 PPC Worldwide and OptumHealth confirm merger http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/eap---industry-news-update http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/james-henson-appointed-as-sales-director-to-health-matters-uk-limited Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Health Matters (UK) LTD, has announced the appointment of James Henson to their Senior Management Team as Sales Director.   James has been with Health Matters for 7 years and has worked within the employee health benefits sector for over a decade. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/james-henson-appointed-as-sales-director-to-health-matters-uk-limited http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/employee-benefits-live-2009-health-matters-prize-draw-winner Mon, 16 Nov 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Congratulations! to Becky Garroch, the HR Specialist at the Hannover Services (UK) Ltd. Becky was the lucky winner of a bottle of Champagne from the Health Matters Prize-Draw at the recent Employee Benefits Live 2009 Exhibition in London. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/employee-benefits-live-2009-health-matters-prize-draw-winner http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/eap-counselling-in-block Tue, 10 Nov 2009 09:00:00 +0000 EAP-Counselling in Block There are a variety of EAP options available in today’s market, one of which is purchasing EAP-Counselling Sessions in block. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/eap-counselling-in-block http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/how-to-support-your-employees Fri, 06 Nov 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Show you care   Let your employees know that you care about them. An employee that feels cared for will be a happy employee. Workforce Health screens can be a great cost effective way to let your employees know you care its something they can reap the benefits from and help them have a healthier lifestyle. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/how-to-support-your-employees http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/seasonal-affective-disorder-sad Mon, 12 Oct 2009 09:00:00 +0000 This News Article is for people that have Seasonal Affective (or mood) Disorder (SAD), or who would like information about it.   SAD is a type of depression with a seasonal pattern, occurring most commonly in the winter months. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/seasonal-affective-disorder-sad http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/chickenpox Fri, 09 Oct 2009 09:00:00 +0000 This factsheet is for people who have chickenpox, parents of children with chickenpox and for people who would like information about it.   Chickenpox is a common illness that gives you a rash and can make you feel generally unwell. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/chickenpox http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/take-a-chance-on-me Fri, 02 Oct 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Have you ever shaken a magic eight ball or tossed a coin to help you come to a decision?   Living a bit on the edge and taking the occasional chance is good for the body and soul. It can boost your confidence, help fight stress and make you feel alive. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/take-a-chance-on-me http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/stress-busting-tips Fri, 04 Sep 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Most people tend to only associate stress with major life issues such as financial hardship or divorce, but a huge amount of our anxiety comes from minor day to day annoyances. When these build up they undermine our natural ability to cope, leaving us feeling tired, irritable and making stress more infectious. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/stress-busting-tips http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/withdrawal-sympoms-of-smoking Tue, 01 Sep 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Physical withdrawal from nicotine is temporary, but it can be uncomfortable while it lasts. The following list contains commonly reported symptoms of nicotine withdrawal. Most people experience some of these, but rarely all of them. Each person goes through this phase of recovery from nicotine addiction a little differently. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/withdrawal-sympoms-of-smoking http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/danger-signs-in-all-people-with-influenza-a-h1n1-swine-flu Fri, 28 Aug 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Clinicians, patients, and those providing home-based care need to be alert to danger signs that can signal progression to more sever disease.             As progression can be very rapid, medical attention should be sought when any of the following danger signs appear in a person with confirmed or suspected H1N1 infection: Shortness of breath, either during physical activity or while resting Difficulty in breathing Turning blue Bloody or coloured sputum Chest pain Altered mental status High fever that persists beyond 3 days Low blood pressure In children, danger signs include fast or difficult breathing, lack of alertness, difficulty in waking up, and little or no desire to play. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/danger-signs-in-all-people-with-influenza-a-h1n1-swine-flu http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/pandemic-influenza-vaccine-manufacturing-process-and-timeline Wed, 19 Aug 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 briefing 6 August 2009 Geneva   It takes approximately five to six months for the first supplies of approved vaccine to become available once a new strain of influenza virus with pandemic potential is identified and isolated. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/pandemic-influenza-vaccine-manufacturing-process-and-timeline http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/influenza-a-h1n1-swine-flu-what-can-i-do Tue, 18 Aug 2009 09:00:00 +0000 What can I do to protect myself from catching influenza A (H1N1)?   The main route of transmission of the new influenza A (H1N1) virus seems to be similar to seasonal influenza, via droplets that are expelled by speaking, sneezing or coughing. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/influenza-a-h1n1-swine-flu-what-can-i-do http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/height-to-weight-ratio Mon, 17 Aug 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Are you the right weight for your height? Use this link to see the height to weight ratio chart.   Height to weight ratio chart   Above is the link to a simple chart that will show you where you are in terms of your height to weight ratio. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/height-to-weight-ratio http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/why-tackling-stress-in-your-business-is-important Wed, 12 Aug 2009 09:00:00 +0000 The cost of neglecting stress in your business can be high. Stress is sometimes overlooked as a health and safety issue by small businesses. The unexpected absence of just one member of staff can affect productivity, and efforts to secure cover can be costly and time-consuming. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/why-tackling-stress-in-your-business-is-important http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/influenza-a-h1n1-effected-areas Wed, 05 Aug 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Countries with confirmed cases of influenza A (H1N1) 2009 in the European Region (46):   Albania, Andorra, Austria, Azerbiajan, Belgium, Bosnia, and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Moldova, Romania, Russian Federation, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Turkey, Ukraine and United Kingdom. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/influenza-a-h1n1-effected-areas http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/many-employers-still-unprepared-for-managing-hr-issues-related-to-h1n1-survey-finds Tue, 04 Aug 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Approximately two in five employers (41 percent) do not have a human resources (HR) policy in place for health-related emergencies, yet many acknowledge they have employees in areas where cases of influenza A (H1N1) or "swine flu" have been confirmed, according to a new Mercer snapshot survey. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/many-employers-still-unprepared-for-managing-hr-issues-related-to-h1n1-survey-finds http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/who-declares-pandemic-but-severity-is-only-moderate Tue, 04 Aug 2009 09:00:00 +0000 On 11 June 2009, the pandemic (H1N1) 2009 was declared.   An influenza pandemic occurs when a new influenza virus subtype emerges and spreads easily among human beings.       Pandemics have been observed for several hundred years. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/who-declares-pandemic-but-severity-is-only-moderate http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/influenza-a-h1n1-advice-for-the-public Tue, 04 Aug 2009 09:00:00 +0000 This article is intended to give advice for people caring for someone with influenza A (H1N1) symptoms or themeselves have symptoms.           At present, the vast majority of people who fall ill can be cared for at home and recover without medical treatment. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/influenza-a-h1n1-advice-for-the-public http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/employees-who-smoke-are-costing-employers-21-billion-a-year Thu, 30 Jul 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Commissioned by the NHS smokefree, The London School of Economics report includes a new formula giving employers a snapshot of the costs they actually bear when smokers are absent due to illness, or take a cigarette break. In Yorkshire alone the cost to businesses in the region is £160. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/employees-who-smoke-are-costing-employers-21-billion-a-year http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/instant-bupa-quote-i Thu, 30 Jul 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Bupa's ClientChoice product quotes can now be quickly and easily obtained with our new instant quote engine.   Use the link bellow to get your instant quote:   Bupa ClientChoice Quote engine http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/instant-bupa-quote-i http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/good-sickness-absence-practice-will-keep-companies-healthy-through-pandemic Wed, 29 Jul 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Employers who manage sickness absence consistently "have nothing to fear" from emergency plans to allow staff to self-certify sick leave for up to two weeks in response to the swine flu pandemic, according to the CIPD.       Senior public policy adviser Ben Willmott said that the government's contingency plans for certifying sick leave would be a "common-sense and pragmatic" response to an escalation in the flu pandemic. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/good-sickness-absence-practice-will-keep-companies-healthy-through-pandemic http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/group-life-cover-and-swine-flu---your-questions-answered Tue, 28 Jul 2009 09:00:00 +0000 In relation to recent events concerning swine flu and following a number of queries we can confirm the following questions:             1. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/group-life-cover-and-swine-flu---your-questions-answered http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/influenza-a-h1n1-update Tue, 28 Jul 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Latest influenza A (H1N1) information   On 23 July 2009 the national pandemic flu service went live in England. It is a telephone and online service, which uses a checklist of symptoms to diagnose influenza A (H1N1).       The UK Government have moved to a new phase of their strategy for pandemic flu. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/influenza-a-h1n1-update http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/should-i-ice-or-heat-my-injury Mon, 27 Jul 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Icing and heating both do similar things, they both stimulate blood flow to the area. When heating the blood is sent to the area to cool it down. That brings more oxygen and nutrients, and removes waste products which help heal the tissue. When icing the blood is sent to warm it up and promote healing. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/should-i-ice-or-heat-my-injury http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/omega-3 Thu, 16 Jul 2009 09:00:00 +0000 A large number of omega-3 products have been hitting the supermarket shelves including fruit juices, margarines, spreads, breads and eggs with many claiming wonderful things.           One thing is for sure and that it that the UK diet has a lack of omega-3. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/omega-3 http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/tooth-care Wed, 15 Jul 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Taking care of teeth is essential we need our teeth to chew food and speak clearly, teeth even effects the appearance of our face and our smile.   Tooth decay   Tooth decay results from a bacterial infection of your teeth. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/tooth-care http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/giving-up-smoking Fri, 10 Jul 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Smoking is the biggest cause of preventable death in the UK. Around 114,000 people in the UK die prematurely every year because they smoked.   If you are a smoker and you do want to quit then you have already taken the first step by choosing to read this article. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/giving-up-smoking http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/snoring Tue, 07 Jul 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Snoring is thought to affect as many as 4 out of 10 men and up to three out of ten women.   http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/snoring http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/alcohol Mon, 06 Jul 2009 09:00:00 +0000 In this article we are going to help you to understand units when it comes to alcohol and what it does to your body both physically and mentally.   Physical and Mental effects of alcohol PDF    The government recommends a limit of 2-3 units a day for women, and 3-4 units a day for men. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/alcohol http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/travelling-with-children Tue, 30 Jun 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Will you be going away this summer? Taking the kids with you? There are a number of things you may or may not know that you should be aware of when holidaying with children.   Sun protection Childhood sunburn can double the chance of developing skin cancer later in life. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/travelling-with-children http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/what-to-take Tue, 30 Jun 2009 09:00:00 +0000 The most important thing to take on holiday is you, in the best health possible. If you've been putting off a dental check-up or any other routine medical matters, consider dealing with these before you leave. Medical and dental care outside Europe may not meet EU standards and can be expensive. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/what-to-take http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/food-and-drink-abroad Tue, 30 Jun 2009 09:00:00 +0000 It may be tempting to try new foods when going abroad but be aware that some foods can upset the stomach especially if not cooked properly, and the last thing you want is to have traveller's diarrhoea.         Food   Healthy eating tips: Wash your hands thoroughly before eating food. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/food-and-drink-abroad http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/travellers-diarrhoea Tue, 30 Jun 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Be aware of Traveller's Diarrhoea, it is the most common illness affecting travellers. It can be caused by many different bacteria, viruses and parasites, many of which are widespread worldwide.                 What happens? http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/travellers-diarrhoea http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/swine-flu-influenza-a-h1n1-update Fri, 19 Jun 2009 09:00:00 +0000 What is the latest influenza A (H1N1) information?   At 16:11 GMT on Thursday 11 June 2009, the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr Margaret Chan, announced that the influenza pandemic alert status was being raised from level five to six. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/swine-flu-influenza-a-h1n1-update http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/share-the-love Fri, 19 Jun 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Health matters has now added bookmarking and sharing capabilities to our news articles, allowing you to bookmark and share our news that you find important and interesting with popular social networking websites.   You will find the new tool at the bottom of every news article, it is the small red box with a white + in the middle and share next to it that looks like this:   http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/share-the-love http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/hand-washing Thu, 18 Jun 2009 09:00:00 +0000 It may seem obvious, but washing your hands is the most effective thing you can do to help prevent the spread of infection when you're visiting a hospital or another similar environment, like a care home.     People in hospital are especially vulnerable to infections because they are normally already ill and their immune system may not be as strong as it normally is. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/hand-washing http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/how-to-help-bee-and-wasp-stings Wed, 17 Jun 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Bees and Wasps can be a large nuisance during the summer time. Always do your best to avoid these flying insects but if you are stung, here are things to help ease the pain.               After being stung, try your best to remove the stinger from the contact spot. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/how-to-help-bee-and-wasp-stings http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/how-much-water-should-we-drink Tue, 16 Jun 2009 09:00:00 +0000 We hear a lot about water and consuming the right amount a day to keep hydrated but how much should we drink and can we drink too much? http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/how-much-water-should-we-drink http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/is-cracking-your-fingers-bad Tue, 16 Jun 2009 09:00:00 +0000 You may have grown up under the impression that cracking your fingers could cause harm. Personally, I can remember my mother telling me that it would cause arthritis. But in fact, cracking your knuckles will cause you no harm.   When you crack your fingers, it releases negative pressure that builds up in your joints. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/is-cracking-your-fingers-bad http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/safety-matters Fri, 12 Jun 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Welcome to Safety Matters, your guide to what is new in the world of health and safety.                         Have you got a water cooler because 1 in 4 are bad for your health When Environmental Health Officers tested water coolers in parts of Scotland they found that 26% failed to meet one or more safety and hygiene standards. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/safety-matters http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/cure-headaches-without-the-use-of-medicine Fri, 05 Jun 2009 09:00:00 +0000 A headache is almost never located in the brain infact there is not much ability at all to sense pain in the mass of the brain. Surgeaons for instance do not use anaesthetics on the brain when they perform brain surgery.         Headaches are almost always located in the muscles of the head which is caused by tension that has built up over a period of time in these muscles. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/cure-headaches-without-the-use-of-medicine http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/sun-protection Wed, 03 Jun 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK and the number of people who develop it is increasing. The majority of cases are caused by ultraviolet radiation from the sun or sun beds. Health Maters have made a simple guide to help you protect yourself this summer. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/sun-protection http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/uva-spf-pollen-count-what-does-it-all-mean Tue, 02 Jun 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Summer officially starts on the 21st June, so you're going to be hearing a lot about protecting yourself from the sun and how to control your allergies but what do all the abbreviations mean? Fear not Health Matters are here to help you understand just what it is you need to know. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/uva-spf-pollen-count-what-does-it-all-mean http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/if-i-could-turn-back-time Mon, 01 Jun 2009 09:00:00 +0000 No one likes to think about getting older, but what if you could learn the secrets to a longer life?   Armed with research from over 20,000 people, experts have identified four changes you could make to live a long and healthy life. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/if-i-could-turn-back-time http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/did-you-know Mon, 01 Jun 2009 09:00:00 +0000   http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/did-you-know http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/hr-in-housing-2009 Thu, 28 May 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Health Matters recently hosted for the fourth year running an exhibition stand at the HR in Housing Conference & Exhibition, organised by the National Housing Federation (NHF).  The 12th & 13th May event was held in Sheffield at the Mercure St Paul's Hotel. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/hr-in-housing-2009 http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/sleep-the-big-payback Fri, 15 May 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Eight hours spent lying down and unconscious—you’re not actively doing anything so it’s a waste of time, right?   http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/sleep-the-big-payback http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/hay-fever Thu, 07 May 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Suffer from hayfever? If you suffer from hay fever like I do then you may be asking yourself "what can I do to keep it under control?!" the endless sneezing, runny nose and irritating itchy eyes. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/hay-fever http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/swine-flu-q--a Sat, 02 May 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Swine flu is a form of influenza that originated in pigs but can be caught by, and spread among, people.             Q: If someone who has been to the affected areas of Mexico and/or the USA is feeling sick what should they do? http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/swine-flu-q--a http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/nhf-finance-exhibition-2009-prize-draw-winner Thu, 16 Apr 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Congratulations to Steph Begley, Director of Finance for Poplar Harca.  Steph won the Bottle of Champagne from the Health Matters prize-draw following her visit to the National Housing Federation (NHF) Finance Conference & Exhibition held at Warwick University. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/nhf-finance-exhibition-2009-prize-draw-winner http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/diabetes---five-facts-to-remember Wed, 01 Apr 2009 09:00:00 +0000 Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a condition where the amount of glucose in the blood is too high because the body cannot use it properly. Glucose comes from the digestion of carbohydrate containing food and drinks and is also produced by the liver.   Insullin is a vital hormone produced by the pancreas and helps the glucose to enter the cells where it is used as fuel for energy. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/diabetes---five-facts-to-remember http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/university-of-birmingham-hospital-nhs-trust-awarded-centre-of-excellence Wed, 25 Feb 2009 09:00:00 +0000   http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/university-of-birmingham-hospital-nhs-trust-awarded-centre-of-excellence http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/income-tax-exemption-for-welfare-counselling---legal--financial-advice Mon, 09 Feb 2009 09:00:00 +0000 We are pleased to advise that the Employee Assistance Professional Association UK (EAPA UK) has now successfully reached an agreement with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) on how the provision of an EAP can work within the existing tax exemption under welfare counselling. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/income-tax-exemption-for-welfare-counselling---legal--financial-advice http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/tonights-special-guest-is--mr-simon-hurley-smith Thu, 11 Dec 2008 09:00:00 +0000 Health Matters MD, Simon Hurley-Smith was invited to the Coventry & Warwickshire Employer of Choice Awards 2008 to present the Health & Wellbeing Winners with their Awards. Over 200 people, representing 48 businesses from across Coventry and Warwickshire were at the awards held at Dunchurch Park Hotel on Thursday 4th December 2008. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/tonights-special-guest-is--mr-simon-hurley-smith http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/simon-hurley-smith-voted-into-the-50-most-influential-corporate-healthcare-magazine Wed, 29 Oct 2008 09:00:00 +0000 Simons article from The 50 most Influential Corporate Healthcare Intermediaries   Simon began his career in the private medical insurance (PMI) sector with PPP healthcare. He joined PPP in 1992 as an account manager and left in 1999 to set up a specialist medical insurance brokerage called Health Matters (UK) Limited. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/simon-hurley-smith-voted-into-the-50-most-influential-corporate-healthcare-magazine http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/we-have-a-winner Fri, 24 Oct 2008 09:00:00 +0000 Congratulations! to Maria Lloyd the Senior HR Advisor at the British Museum. Maria was the lucky winner of the Health Matters Prize-Draw from the recent Employee Benefits 2008 Exhibition in London.   Health Matters had great pleasure in hosting a stand at the exhibition and indeed great pleasure in meeting with many HR professionals from around the country and look forward to meeting many more at the event next year. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/we-have-a-winner http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/national-housing-federation---subscriber Mon, 04 Aug 2008 09:00:00 +0000 National Housing Federation - Subscriber http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/national-housing-federation---subscriber http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/housing-reform-debate Mon, 28 Jul 2008 09:00:00 +0000 Welcome to the housing reform debate:  http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/housing-reform-debate http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/hr-in-housing-2008-prize-draw-winner Fri, 23 May 2008 09:00:00 +0000 Health Matters were delighted to be involved in the HR in Housing Exhibition recently held in Central Birmingham. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/hr-in-housing-2008-prize-draw-winner http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/hr-in-housing-2008-birmingham Wed, 14 May 2008 09:00:00 +0000 Health Matters was delighted to host an exhibition stand at the 2008 HR in Housing Show that was held in central Birmingham. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/hr-in-housing-2008-birmingham http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/hr-show-2008-manchester Mon, 28 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0000 Health Matters was delighted to host an exhibition stand at the 2008 Manchester based HR Show.  Pictured are James (left) Simon (centre) Brian (right) of Health Matters.  The three man team spent two days at the show talking to many HR professionals about the advantages, benefits and cash savings to be had when buying Employee Benefits through a broker, especially when buying from Health Matters. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/hr-show-2008-manchester http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/success-at-the-annual-health-insurance-awards-2007 Thu, 25 Oct 2007 09:00:00 +0000 We are very pleased to announce the success of our Sales Adviser, Valerie Aoulou, at the 2007 Health Insurance Awards.   http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/success-at-the-annual-health-insurance-awards-2007 http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/employee-benefits-exhibition-october-2007 Mon, 15 Oct 2007 09:00:00 +0000 Health Matters is delighted to have taken a stand at the Employee Benefits Exhibition at the London Design Centre.  The Exhibition was a great success for us and not just because we were able to meet up with many of our existing clients but we were also able to demonstrate our services to some interested organisations. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/employee-benefits-exhibition-october-2007 http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-matters---management-team-building-activity-july-07 Mon, 15 Oct 2007 09:00:00 +0000 During the summer our Sales Management Team took part in a Team Building Experience on the Grand Union Canal.   The day was a complete success with the whole team working together.  The sunny weather really helped ! http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-matters---management-team-building-activity-july-07 http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/the-future-of-cancer-treatment Thu, 06 Sep 2007 09:00:00 +0000 The Future of Cancer Treatment within the Private Sector http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/the-future-of-cancer-treatment http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/national-recognition-for-healthy-business Thu, 30 Aug 2007 09:00:00 +0000 A Health Insurance brokerage has picked up double honours in a top industry competition. http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/national-recognition-for-healthy-business http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/hr-in-housing-2007-manchester Tue, 28 Aug 2007 09:00:00 +0000 Our sister company Employee Matters are delighted to have been involved in the HR in Housing Exhibition recently held at the Manchester Hilton, hosted by the National Housing Federation (NHF). http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/hr-in-housing-2007-manchester http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-matters-at-healthy-workforce-awards Tue, 28 Aug 2007 09:00:00 +0000 Simon Hurley-Smith of Health Matters (UK) Limited awarding Madeleine Glaisher, Deputy Chief Executive at Bethnall Green and Victoria Park Housing Association Limited with the Healthy Workforce Award and Certificate sponsored by HealthSure http://www.health-matters.co.uk/news/health-matters-at-healthy-workforce-awards