HolidayBlogging

Tag: cover

  • Tesla revamps the Megapack in attempt to reverse its declining storage business

    Tesla revamps the Megapack in attempt to reverse its declining storage business

    Tesla is updating its utility-scale Megapack batteries as it seeks to stem the decline of its lucrative energy-storage business.

    The new battery product known as Megapack 3, which Tesla revealed late Monday, is a bid to lure utilities and data center developers that are desperate for power. Megapack 3 stores around 1 megawatt-hour more electricity than Tesla’s largest existing offering and promises a longer lifespan.

    Tesla also introduced Megablock, a grouping of four Megapack 3 units that can store 20 megawatt-hours, enough to run around 4,000 homes for four hours, the length of time such batteries are frequently used. The grouping should reduce installation times by 23% and construction times by up to 40%, the company said. Cells for the battery packs will be sourced from the U.S., Southeast Asia, and China.

    By updating the thermal management system, Megapack 3 will be able to operate from –40°F to 140°F, specs that should cover just about everywhere on Earth.

    Investors will have to wait awhile to see any impact on Tesla’s balance sheet, though. Both products will be manufactured in Tesla’s Megafactory near Houston and won’t enter production until the latter half of 2026. 

    Tesla’s energy-storage business could use a shot in the arm after reporting two consecutive quarters of declining numbers this year. The company was the leading supplier of battery energy-storage systems in 2024, though its lead was slipping even then, according to Wood Mackenzie.

    Meanwhile, the rest of the energy-storage industry has been growing swiftly.

    Techcrunch event

    Join 10k+ tech and VC leaders for growth and connections at Disrupt 2025

    Netflix, Box, a16z, ElevenLabs, Wayve, Sequoia Capital, Elad Gil — just some of the 250+ heavy hitters leading 200+ sessions designed to deliver the insights that fuel startup growth and sharpen your edge. Don’t miss the 20th anniversary of TechCrunch, and a chance to learn from the top voices in tech. Grab your ticket before Sept 26 to save up to $668.

    Join 10k+ tech and VC leaders for growth and connections at Disrupt 2025

    Netflix, Box, a16z, ElevenLabs, Wayve, Sequoia Capital, Elad Gil — just some of the 250+ heavy hitters leading 200+ sessions designed to deliver the insights that fuel startup growth and sharpen your edge. Don’t miss the 20th anniversary of TechCrunch, and a chance to learn from the top voices in tech. Grab your ticket before Sept 26 to save up to $668.

    San Francisco
    |
    October 27-29, 2025

    REGISTER NOW

    The new Houston factory will be capable of producing up to 50 gigawatt-hours per year of Megapack 3 and Megablock units. Last quarter, Tesla installed 9.6 gigawatt-hours of stationary energy storage.

    Tesla’s solar and energy-storage businesses would seem to have a built-in customer in CEO Elon Musk’s other company, xAI. The AI company has added 168 Megapacks at its data center in South Memphis, Tennessee, though it’s apparently exploring the addition of dozens more gas turbines. No new battery additions have been reported.

  • Does Medicaid Cover LASIK Eye Surgery? – Health Cages

    Does Medicaid Cover LASIK Eye Surgery? – Health Cages

    Will Medicaid Cover LASIK Eye Surgery?

    Have you ever wondered if Medicaid or your medical insurance will cover LASIK eye surgery? You’re not alone. Let’s dive into the details and find out what options are available regarding eye surgeries and Medicaid coverage.

    (adsbygoogle=window.adsbygoogle||[]).push({})

    In this blog we’ll discuss these topics:

    (adsbygoogle=window.adsbygoogle||[]).push({})

    Why Doesn’t Medicaid Cover LASIK Surgery?

    Medicaid generally doesn’t cover LASIK eye surgery. Why? Because LASIK is considered an elective procedure. In other words, it’s not seen as medically necessary. Medicaid focuses on covering treatments and procedures essential for health and well-being. Since LASIK mainly aims to reduce your need for glasses or contacts, it doesn’t make the cut.

    (adsbygoogle=window.adsbygoogle||[]).push({})

    Will Medical Insurance Cover LASIK Eye Surgery?

    Most medical insurance plans follow the same logic as Medicaid and don’t cover LASIK eye surgery for being elective. However, some insurance companies might offer discounts or special pricing through partnerships with LASIK providers. So, it’s worth checking with your insurance provider to see if they have any deals.

    (adsbygoogle=window.adsbygoogle||[]).push({})

    What to Do to Get Medicaid to Cover LASIK Surgery?

    Though rare, there are instances where Medicaid might consider covering LASIK surgery if it’s deemed medically necessary. 

    1. Consult with Your Doctor: Have a thorough evaluation with your ophthalmologist. They can help determine if LASIK is medically necessary for your condition.
    1. Gather Documentation: Collect all relevant medical records and documentation supporting the need for LASIK.
    1. Submit a Request: Reach out to Medicaid and submit a formal request or pre-authorization, including the documentation from your doctor.

    What Types of Eye Surgeries Does Medicaid Cover?

    While LASIK may not be on the list, Medicaid does cover several other eye surgeries that are considered medically necessary

    (adsbygoogle=window.adsbygoogle||[]).push({})
    • Cataract Surgery: To remove cataracts and improve vision.
    • Glaucoma Surgery: To reduce intraocular pressure and prevent vision loss.
    • Retinal Surgeries: For conditions like retinal detachment or diabetic retinopathy.
    • Corneal Transplants: To replace a damaged or diseased cornea.

    Macular Degeneration Treatment

    Medicaid also covers treatments for macular degeneration, a common eye condition among older adults that can lead to vision loss. Some of the treatments include:

    • Anti-VEGF Injections: Medications injected into the eye to slow the disease’s progression.
    • Photodynamic Therapy: A laser treatment used with a light-sensitive drug.
    • Nutritional Supplements: Specific vitamins and minerals that can help slow the disease’s progression.

    Conclusion

    While Medicaid and most medical insurance plans don’t cover LASIK eye surgery because it’s considered elective, other types of eye surgeries and treatments are covered. If you’re keen on LASIK, exploring discounts or financing options might be the way to go. Always check with your healthcare provider and insurance company to understand your coverage and the best steps for your eye health.

    Faq’s 

    Q1. Does Medicaid Cover LASIK?

    A1. No, Medicaid usually doesn’t cover LASIK or other vision correction surgeries. These surgeries are often seen as cosmetic or elective, meaning they’re not considered medically necessary.

    Q2. Does VA Medicaid Cover LASIK Eye Surgery?

    A2. If your VA doctor says LASIK is medically necessary, there’s a good chance your VA benefits could cover it.

    Q3. Is LASIK Covered by Medicaid in Illinois?

    A3. Yes, CountyCare is the first and only Medicaid plan in Illinois that covers LASIK surgery. LASIK is a surgery that fixes vision problems by reshaping the corneas.

    Q4. Does Medicaid Cover LASIK in Iowa?

    Q4. No, LASIK laser eye surgery is not covered by health insurance or vision insurance in Iowa. This procedure is considered an elective cosmetic surgery, and insurance companies typically don’t cover the costs.

    Q5. How Long Does LASIK Last?

    Q5. The effects of LASIK surgery are permanent, but the benefits can lessen over time. For most people, the results last a lifetime. However, about 10-12% of patients might need another surgery later because of changes in their eyes.