Tag: important

  • Devastating US Report Exposes Abuse of Settled Climate Science and Its Role in Net Zero

    Devastating US Report Exposes Abuse of Settled Climate Science and Its Role in Net Zero

    Net Zero: The Final Curtain Call in the US

    In a whirlwind announcement that’s both headline‑ready and low‑key brain‑busting, the Department of Energy has just dropped a blue‑book that says the age of Net Zero is officially over.

    The Blue‑Book Buzz

    First out this week, the government’s newest report is a no‑holds‑barred blow‑away at what it calls the “settled” climate science dogma that has been wielded for decades. Five high‑profile scientists—think Nobel‑winner caliber—together flipped the script, taking on the math, the motives, and the very rhetoric that feeds the Net Zero hype.

    This is not the kind of thing you stumble across on the coffee‑shop news feed. It’s the kind of paper that appears in the archives of a certain museum of policy, that, when you finally read it, you’ll want to shout, “What?!”

    Why It Matters

    • A systematic dismantling of the claims that make Net Zero appear inevitable.
    • Methodologies that allegedly misread data and cherry‑pick results.
    • Motivations behind a handful of activist scientists and the political players who’ve sold the dream.
    The Media Response

    Despite its ground‑breaking fire‑power, the report has been effectively left in the shadows by most mainstream outlets—yes, even the heavyweights like the BBC and Guardian. It’s like the best tip of the iceberg that no one chose to mention in a public meeting.

    What We Can Do

    It isn’t just a matter of letting scholars debate. It’s a concrete call to action. If we really want to shape our climate future (or just keep our politicians honest), we need to spread this new perspective far and wide.

    Bottom line: The US has handed over the last loaf of Net Zero bread, struck down the ancient altar of climate orthodoxy, and left the world staring at a blank slate.

    Unpacking the Climate Debate: A Fresh Take

    Ever wondered why some climate reports feel like they’re speaking in code? A new study claims it’s not just noise—computer models might be giving us the wrong numbers on how our planet reacts to carbon dioxide.

    What’s the Big Picture?

    • Model Woes: Scientists say models don’t clearly show how much temperature shifts when CO₂ climbs. Plus, extreme weather isn’t skyrocketing.
    • Sea Level Set‑Back: North America’s water bars look pretty steady—no big climb about the corner of the globe.
    • Attribution Ambiguity: Linking disasters to climate change is tricky because nature’s own wiggle room plays a role.

    Meet Anthony Watts

    Anthony Watts, the man behind Watts Up With That?, has spent decades poking at what he calls the “settled” science. He claims this new report gives scientists the chance to shine a light on the hype that’s been dressing up data for years.

    He’s proud that the report:

    • Is written by real pros—researchers from NASA, IPCC, and top universities.
    • Device-not a think‑tank or a grievance piece.

    Why This Matters to Skeptics

    Fans of the WUWT site feel comfortable with the topics. The new findings echo what regular skeptics have long been calling out: the “gigantic greening” of Earth.

    • Plants thrive when CO₂ levels rise—especially modern studies that shout out the “green” side of the story.
    • Some papers say 25‑50% of the planet’s surface has seen more lushness.
    • Yet, the mainstream news seldom covers that. Even IPCC reports hardly mention it.

    What About the Hot Topic? RCP8.5

    Every climate paper out here starts with RCP8.5. It’s that “business‑as‑usual” scenario that’s become the poster‑child for doom‑scrolling.

    • Now viewed as unlikely by many scientists.
    • Turns out it lures a lot of “clickbait” stories—Gulf Stream collapse, coral bleaching.
    • And some policy plans rely on this extreme path to push Net Zero like a bike‑spokes steering a long‑distance race.

    Models Those Old Debate Wheels

    For decades, around 35+ models across research communities have been quietly deciding the future of warming when CO₂ doubles.

    • Problems? The projected warming ranges wildly—up to three times different.
    • Because the spread hasn’t shrunk, people ask: Are these models useful?—many say no, especially for solid public policy.

    Weather Attribution, That Shiny New Scare

    The infamous World Weather Attribution (WWA) brand, funded by the “Green Blob,” leads the charge linking extreme events to human actions.

    • Critics say WWA’s reports are unreviewed and tailored for litigation.
    • They also highlight the low historical data—only a few years of records that are riddled with biases.
    • When scientists dive into paleoclimate loops, they find it’s hard to distinguish real human fingerprints from natural moods.

    Bottom Line

    This fresh report argues that the climate ‑ and especially our assignment of extreme weather to humanity ‑ is far less certain than the glossy headlines tell us. While the science community is still churning out more evidence, there is a persistent thread of skepticism: the models might be too messy to judiciously guide policy.

  • Tech firms in Central and Eastern Europe seek to catch up with the West

    Tech firms in Central and Eastern Europe seek to catch up with the West

    The combined market capitalisation of the 100 largest tech companies in Central and Eastern Europe amounts to nearly $117 billion, according to the “Digital Champions CEE 2025” report, prepared by the Digital Poland Foundation.

    ADVERTISEMENT

    The first three places in this year’s ranking of the largest technology companies in Central and Eastern Europe were taken by Estonian fintech Wise, as well as two Polish companies: InPost and Allegro.
    The report shows that the value of 32 companies in the region exceeds $1 billion, while another 50 boast valuations above $250 million. The largest number of companies on the list come from Poland — the region’s biggest economy — with 39 technology firms from the country having a combined valuation of over $43bn.

    Meanwhile, Estonia and the Czech Republic each have 13 companies among the CEE digital champions, with the value of Estonian firms being nearly twice as high as that of Czech firms — $21.7bn versus $12.2bn. Lithuania (7 companies) and Romania (6 companies) rank further down the list.

    CEE: Poland and the Baltics are tech frontrunners

    “Poland has become fertile ground for building digital companies, and local VC and PE funds play an increasingly important role in driving their growth. It is worth noting that companies that have leveraged such financing often not only gain a strong position in the domestic and regional markets but also make significant progress on the global stage. InPost, Booksy, and ICEYE are the best examples — technology companies whose products and services have gained international reach far beyond Poland and the CEE region,” said Rozalia Urbanek, Investment Director at PFR Ventures.
    ICEYE is a Finnish company that was co-founded by Poland’s Rafal Modrzewski, and it also has significant operations in Poland.
    Although the largest number of companies in the top 100 ranking come from Poland, the Baltic countries remain the undisputed leaders of the technology sector in the region. The 23 companies from Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia included in the ranking account for over 30% of the total valuation of all companies on the list, while these countries are home to only about 4% of the CEE region’s population.
    As the report points out, the technology sector in Central and Eastern Europe performs exceptionally well compared to the overall economy of the region’s countries. Technology companies from CEE countries account for more than 8% of the European digital economy, with a combined value of €3 trillion. Importantly, over the past decade, the value of companies here has grown two to three times faster than similar firms in Western Europe.

    Challenges for the industry

    “Technology companies from the CEE region have enormous potential and consistently prove that they are on par with competitors from other parts of the world. However, it’s important to emphasise that these companies must have an international outlook, as only that allows them to fully realise their potential. Developing technology in Central and Eastern Europe also has a significant advantage — the region offers excellent IT talent while enabling businesses to operate at reasonable costs,” said Filip Kaczmarzyk, Management Board Member at XTB, in an interview with Euronews.
    Representatives of technology companies, however, point to numerous growth barriers. Marcin Kuśmierz, CEO of e-commerce company Allegro, highlights issues such as complex EU regulations, a lack of synchronisation in their implementation across member states, and unfair competition from outside the EU.
    “We believe that these burdens are disproportionately greater for European companies compared to their non-European competitors. In our dialogue with national and EU authorities, we consistently call for a level playing field for all entities operating in the EU market, regardless of their size or origin, as this is the best way to foster healthy competition and innovation, as well as to protect consumer interests,” Marcin Kuśmierz told Euronews.

    Related

    Business funding: Where is venture capital flowing in Europe?How do you grow a unicorn? What Europe can do to support its start-ups

    One of the biggest challenges for technology companies in the Central and Eastern European (CEE) region is limited access to capital.
    “Although many companies have innovative ideas and the potential to expand into foreign markets, they often lack sufficient capital to successfully execute their plans. Accessing external sources of financing, such as venture capital funds, could provide crucial support for companies in the CEE region. A similar situation applies to IPOs — few companies choose this route, considering it too complex or risky,” said Szymon Wałach, Vice President of Digital and Strategy at InPost.
    He adds, however, that investor interest in the sector is growing, as evidenced by the total value of investments in CEE tech companies in 2024, which reached €3.89bn. Poland, with €592.1 million, ranked second — just behind Turkey.
    A survey conducted by The Recursive in early 2025 showed that 62% of venture capitalists in the CEE region expect a more favourable investment climate in 2025 compared to the previous year. Investors are particularly optimistic about long-term growth opportunities in the artificial intelligence, cyber security and deep technology sectors.

  • How Strength Training Supercharges Fat Loss and Metabolism – Health Cages

    How Strength Training Supercharges Fat Loss and Metabolism – Health Cages

    Many believe that cardio is the most effective way to lose weight, however strength training has a more important role in the long-term process of metabolic and fat loss than people think. While cycling, running, or using the elliptical may aid in burning calories, they don’t offer the same long-term advantages as the building of muscles.

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

    Training in strength is not just helpful in losing weight, but also improves the body’s composition, improves metabolism, and helps prevent loss of muscle. Research has shown that those who exercise regularly training have a greater metabolic rate at rest that means they burn more calories when they’re not doing any exercise. This makes strengthening training an essential part of any successful diet plan for weight loss.

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

    If people are focused on exercise, they can lose weight, however, a large portion of it comes from muscle, resulting in a slower metabolism as time passes. However, exercises that strengthen muscles help preserve muscles while burning off fat, which results in more leaner and stronger bodies. The more muscle someone has the more calories they burn throughout the day, which makes it easier to sustain weight loss as time passes.

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

    Apart from the benefits of metabolism strengthening also increases bone density, helps with joint health, and boosts the overall endurance and strength. To understand the reason why lifting weights are an effective tool to lose fat it’s crucial to examine the way it affects metabolism as well as how it fares against aerobic exercise, and how to develop a strong exercise routine for strength.

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

    The Science Behind Strength Training and Fat Loss

    Training for strength is among the most efficient methods to shed fat since it aids in building muscles that are lean, and will burn more calories even when you are when you’re at the state of rest. In contrast to cardio, which mostly burns calories when exercising it is a strength-training program that can have a long-lasting impact on metabolism. The muscles require more power to sustain than fat. Therefore, the greater the amount of muscle you have the more calories your body will burn during the course of your day. This is the reason why those who include strength training in their exercise routines usually better manage their weight.

    Research has shown that those who mix resistance training and healthy eating experience more weight loss than those who merely focus on calorie reduction. Lilly weight studies have examined the connection between fitness and metabolism, proving that strength training plays a key aspect in the sustainable loss of weight. By increasing muscle mass people can enhance their body’s overall structure, making weight loss more efficient in the long term.

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

    How Strength Training Boosts Metabolism for Long-Term Fat Loss

    One of the greatest benefits of exercise is its capacity to increase the body’s metabolic rate at rest. After an exercise it continues burning calories over a period of time, and sometimes even days, as a result of an event known as excessive exercise-related oxygen consumption (EPOC). It is believed that the “afterburn effect” is significantly more intense with strength training as compared with steady state cardio. As time passes, this leads to higher calorie expenditure overall and makes fat loss more easy to sustain.

    Research that has included Eli Lilly weight loss clinical trials have examined the ways that different kinds of exercise can affect metabolism. The results suggest that resistance training increases the sensitivity of insulin, increases fat oxidation and the efficiency of your system of energy that the body uses. It is a result that strength training does not only aid in the loss of fat in the immediate time frame, but also helps to keep a healthy weight over the long term. Through incorporating the practice of strength training into their routine it is possible to avoid typical plateaus in weight loss and see continued improvements.

    Strength Training vs. Cardio

    A lot of people believe they are the most effective method to burn fat, however, strength training has distinct benefits that cardio by itself can’t offer. Although activities such as cycling and running do help to burn calories, they will not help in the development of muscle like lifting weights can. If a person loses weight through exercise alone, they usually lose a mixture of muscle and fat, which can reduce the rate of metabolism in the course of time. Strength training, on other hand, helps to maintain and increase muscle mass. This helps to keep metabolism up and encourages long-term weight loss.

    Furthermore, training for strength has an extended effect on calories burning. In contrast to cardio, which mostly burns calories during a workout and then dries out, strength training can boost calorie consumption for hours following the workout. The clinical trials to lose weight have examined different methods of exercise and have revealed that the combination of strength training and healthy eating leads to greater efficiency and long-lasting weight loss than only relying on cardio. By focusing on building muscles and burning fat, people will achieve a toned, healthy physique, rather than shrinking in size.

    Building an Effective Strength Training Routine for Fat Loss

    To get the most fat loss possible It is essential to develop an exercise routine that targets all the major muscles. A balanced plan should contain exercises like squats, deadlifts and bench presses and rows that work multiple muscles simultaneously. These compound exercises will not only build strength, but they also burn a substantial amount of calories. This makes them ideal for those who want to shed excess fat while keeping muscles.

    Alongside choosing the correct exercises, it is essential to pay attention to increasing the overload gradually. This involves gradually increasing the weight and reps, or sets over time in order to keep the muscles challenged. The combination of strength training with diet and adequate protein intake can aid in maximizing the growth of muscles and reduce fat. If you do it consistently it becomes an effective method for shaping the body, and also boosting general metabolism.

    Wrap-Up

    Strength training is an important part to any diet strategy and provides long-term benefits that are far beyond what cardio can do on its own. Through increasing the muscles mass, increasing metabolism, and improving the overall fitness levels, lifting weights can help to create a sustainable and efficient strategy for weight loss.

    Studies have proven of resistance exercise playing a crucial part in losing fat, and studies show its ability to keep muscle mass intact while eliminating unnecessary pounds. If muscle is maintained when losing weight it allows the body to burn more calories when at the rest of the day, making it easier to sustain gains in the long run. That’s why strength training does more than help people lose weight, but can also make it less likely to gain it back later on.

    Instead of relying only on extreme diets or cardio adding strength training to the fitness program allows for more flexibility and lasting outcomes. When following a plan that is well-organized and focusing on gradual improvement, people can reach their weight reduction goals in a manner that promotes the physical health as well as metabolism efficiency.

    Training for strength is more than simply a workout, it’s a method for a lifetime of fat loss and overall health. It is important to remain steady, test your body in a new way and then combine exercise with the right nutrition to get the best the results. If you are committed and follow the correct method, training for strength can be the missing ingredient in a sustainable and long-lasting weight loss.

  • Understanding the Differences Between Detox, Residential, and Outpatient Programs – Health Cages

    Understanding the Differences Between Detox, Residential, and Outpatient Programs – Health Cages

    Starting the recovery process can feel overwhelming. Many people don’t know where to begin. One of the most important steps is understanding the types of treatment available. For those seeking Idaho addiction treatment, the three main levels of care are detox, inpatient, and outpatient programs. Each type plays a different role in the recovery journey.

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

    No single treatment path works for everyone. People have different needs depending on how long they’ve used substances, what they’ve used, and their support system. Some people may need the structure of inpatient rehab in Idaho. Others might do well with the flexibility of outpatient care. But for most, the journey begins with detox.

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

    Detox helps the body remove harmful substances. Inpatient treatment offers a stable place to heal. Outpatient care helps people stay on track while managing daily life. Each stage builds on the last. Together, they create a path to lasting recovery.

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

    Detox: Clearing the Body of Substances

    Detox is usually the first step in treatment. It’s the process of clearing drugs or alcohol from the body. This phase can be physically and emotionally difficult. That’s why medical supervision is often needed.

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

    Withdrawal symptoms can be intense. People may feel sick, anxious, or even experience seizures. In a detox facility, doctors and nurses monitor clients closely. They provide medication when needed and make sure the person stays safe and stable. This care can last several days or even a week.

    Detox is not the same as treatment. It doesn’t fix the root causes of addiction. It only prepares the body for the next phase. Once detox is over, people need more support to stay clean. That’s where inpatient or outpatient programs come in.

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

    Inpatient Treatment: Full-Time Support and Structure

    Inpatient treatment, or residential rehab, offers round-the-clock care. Clients live at the facility full time. Programs usually last 30 to 90 days. Some are longer. The length depends on a person’s needs and progress.

    In this setting, people follow a daily schedule. They attend therapy, group counseling, and workshops. Some programs include activities like yoga, fitness, or art therapy. The goal is to help clients understand their addiction and learn how to live without substances.

    One of the main benefits of inpatient rehab in Idaho is the safe environment. Clients are removed from triggers and distractions. They can focus fully on recovery. This level of care is helpful for people with long-term substance use or repeated relapses. It’s also ideal for those with mental health conditions like anxiety or depression.

    Staff at inpatient facilities are trained to treat both addiction and mental illness. They can provide medication, therapy, and support. This is called dual diagnosis care. It helps people who need treatment for both conditions at the same time.

    Living with others in recovery also helps. It builds community and accountability. Clients encourage each other. They learn from shared experiences. By the end of inpatient care, most people are ready for the next phase—outpatient treatment or sober living.

    Outpatient Treatment: Flexible and Ongoing Care

    Outpatient care allows people to live at home while attending therapy. It’s a good fit for those with stable housing and strong support systems. Sessions can take place during the day or evening. People attend several times a week, depending on the program.

    There are different types of outpatient care. A standard outpatient program might include weekly therapy and support groups. Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) offer more hours and structure. Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) are even more intensive. They provide nearly full-day treatment but let clients go home at night.

    Outpatient care works well after inpatient treatment. It helps people adjust to real-life challenges. Clients keep learning coping skills. They continue therapy and often meet with a case manager or psychiatrist.

    Some people begin their recovery in outpatient care. This works best for mild addiction or when family support is strong. The flexibility of outpatient programs allows people to work, go to school, or take care of their family while still getting help.

    Outpatient treatment is a key part of the Idaho addiction treatment system. Many providers offer both inpatient and outpatient services. This lets people move smoothly from one level of care to the next.

    Dual Diagnosis: Treating Mental Health and Addiction Together

    Many people who need substance abuse treatment in Idaho also live with a mental health condition. These may include depression, PTSD, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. When both are present, it’s called a dual diagnosis.

    Treating both conditions together leads to better outcomes. If only one is treated, the other can cause relapse. For example, untreated anxiety may lead someone back to drug use. That’s why many programs offer dual diagnosis care.

    Inpatient treatment is often the best place for this. Staff have time to assess, diagnose, and stabilize both issues. Outpatient care can also provide dual diagnosis support, especially IOP and PHP programs.

    People with dual diagnosis need integrated care. Therapy sessions address both mental health and addiction. Medication may be part of the plan too. Over time, people learn how their conditions affect each other—and how to manage both in healthy ways.

    Sober Living: A Step Between Treatment and Independence

    After inpatient treatment, many people are not ready to go home. Sober living homes provide a safe place to live during this transition. These homes have rules and structure, but they also allow for more freedom than inpatient care.

    People living in sober homes agree to stay substance-free. They often attend support groups, therapy, or outpatient programs. They may also have chores, curfews, and group meetings. These rules create accountability and routine.

    Sober living helps people apply what they’ve learned in treatment. They can find a job, rebuild relationships, or return to school while staying supported. It’s especially helpful for people without a stable or safe home to return to.

    Some sober homes are linked to treatment centers. Others operate independently. Either way, they offer an important step in long-term recovery.

    How to Choose the Right Level of Care

    Choosing the right treatment can be confusing. Should someone start with detox? Is inpatient care necessary? Can they go straight to outpatient?

    A clinical assessment can help answer these questions. Professionals look at substance use history, mental health, and physical health. They also consider things like housing, work, and family support.

    Some people need to begin with detox, especially if they’ve used heavily or for a long time. Others may skip detox and begin in outpatient treatment. If mental illness or repeated relapses are present, inpatient care is usually the best fit.

    Outpatient care works well when addiction is mild and support at home is strong. It can also follow inpatient care as a step-down program.

    No matter where someone begins, the goal is long-term recovery. A treatment center can help build a custom plan. Many offer all levels of care in one place. This makes it easier to adjust the plan as the person grows in their recovery.

    The Importance of Aftercare

    Aftercare is what happens after formal treatment ends. Recovery doesn’t stop when someone finishes a program. Ongoing support is key to staying sober.

    Aftercare plans may include therapy, support groups, sober housing, or recovery coaching. Some people continue medication or join alumni programs. Others work with a sponsor or attend 12-step meetings.

    Good treatment centers start aftercare planning early. They help people build a support network and create goals for the future. The first few months after treatment are critical. With the right support, people can stay on track and avoid relapse.

    Relapse doesn’t mean failure. It’s often part of the process. Aftercare gives people the tools to bounce back and keep moving forward.

    Final Thoughts

    Understanding the differences between detox, inpatient, and outpatient programs is key to starting recovery. Each type of care offers something unique. Detox clears the body. Inpatient treatment builds stability. Outpatient care offers long-term support.

    Some people use all three. Others may only need one or two levels of care. What matters most is getting started.

    If you or someone you care about needs substance abuse treatment in Idaho, don’t wait. Help is available. Programs offering detox, inpatient rehab in Idaho, and outpatient care can build a plan that fits your life.

    Recovery is possible. The first step is reaching out.

  • Send Me A Proposal: 7 Things You Must Do First

    Send Me A Proposal: 7 Things You Must Do First

    If you follow these tips below, you and your team won’t get caught in that trap – and will not only convert more sales opportunities, but also be able to prioritise your time and have more idea which are likely to convert the fastest, for the most money.

    So let’s have a look at the 7 things you must do, before sending that proposal.

    Andy’s Tip No 1 – Establish Full Specification Of The Project

    Most salespeople will get the majority of the specification down, but some have to call back a second time to get things they forgot, or that their colleagues tell them will be needed in order to produce an accurate quotation or proposal.

    You can imagine the impact this has on the prospect.  If you’re in a competitive market with other people pitching for the work, you’ve put yourself on the back foot before you’ve even started.

    Andy’s Tip No 2 – Establish Why Now and Why You?

    These two areas are essential areas to question around in every sales opportunity – you need to establish early on in your sales conversation how serious they are, and how serious the project is.  Even more important however is getting the why you bit answered.

    The aim here is to uncover both the buying motivation, and also what chance you have of picking up this business. Remember – the fluffier the answers to the questions you ask here – the less likely you are to win the work!

    Andy’s Tip No 3 – Establish Decision Makers and DM Process

    Failure to establish the decision makers involved will mean that you could go all the way through the process, and then fall at the final hurdle as someone else comes in to influence the buying decision that you weren’t aware of.

    Once you’ve identified the decision makers, you can then decide your approach for engaging them.  You also need to identify the process they’re going through in order to make the decision.  If they’re cagey about the process this time, it might be that the person you’re talking to is low-level in the organisation.  In which case, simply asking about a previous process for similar projects will uncover most of what you need to know.

    Andy’s Tip No 4 – Establish Their Other Options

    Asking about the other options they’re considering will usually set the platform for you to get information about other potential suppliers/vendors.  It will also get you vital information about alternative competition – either them finding another way to achieve the results they want, doing it themselves in-house, or not doing it at all.

    Andy’s Tip No 5 – Establish Their Timescales

    Another area you need to question around is their timescales.

    Most salespeople make the mistake of only finding out about when the clients want to implement the project, or when they need to take delivery of the product.  If you only get this timescale then you’re missing out on something that’s potentially more important.

    Make sure you understand the timescales they have to buy in order to give yourself the best understanding of how to handle the proposal, and give yourself the best chance of winning it.

    Andy’s Tip No 6 – Establish Budget Or Funding

    It’s vital in any sales opportunity, let alone a proposal situation, that you identify budget or funding as early as possible.  As most decent-sized projects require money from someone’s budget, or the company to have thought about how they’re going to pay for it, failure to identify this can mean the project stalling at the last minute – when you’ve put lots of time and effort into it.

    Make sure that you’ve got the budget area covered and you’ll reduce the risk of the project being put on hold, or shelved – plus it may also bring to your awareness other people involved in the buying process that you weren’t aware of.

    Andy’s Tip No 7 – Establish Commitment

    This is the final and most important part of any sales situation, and even more vital at proposal stage. Now for those of you with a short sales cycle, you could also think of the word closing here.  For those of you on longer sales cycles, usually with higher-value items or projects at stake, think about gaining commitment to the next stage and to yourself and your company.

    Failure to get commitment to the project and/or next stage and also to you and your company will mean that you’re likely to be disappointed when it comes to announcing who won the business and who lost it.  So gain commitment to ensure you end up in the winner’s enclosure.

    So, make sure you take action on the above and the best of luck with your sales!


  • How to Avoid MIPS Healthcare Penalties in 2024: A Quick Guide! – Health Cages

    How to Avoid MIPS Healthcare Penalties in 2024: A Quick Guide! – Health Cages

    With healthcare continuing to be a value-based delivery of care, MIPS will play an important role for Medicare providers. While providing incentives, MIPS healthcare also brings with it the possibility of penalties for those who do not pass certain performance thresholds. 

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

    In this guide, we will help you understand how you can avoid penalties in MIPS healthcare.

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

    Let’s get started!

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

    What are MIPS Healthcare Penalties?

    MIPS penalties are reductions in payment for Medicare Part B claims submitted by a clinician if the actual performance standards for participation in the MIPS healthcare program for that year have not been met. The penalty calculations depend on national-level performance. It changed from year to year. The highest penalty in 2024 for a reduction in Medicare payment was 9 percent less.

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

    Breaking Down MIPS Healthcare Score Calculation

    Four types of categories exist when it comes to MIPS program requirements.

    It includes:

    (adsbygoogle=window.adsbygoogle||[]).push({})
    1. Quality
    2. Promoting Interoperability
    3.  Improvement activities
    4. Cost

    The score is evaluated and measured differently for each category. Your MIPS healthcare scores for each of these categories are added together to give you your final MIPS CPS (Composite Performance Score). However, the categories are weighted, therefore, some of them will have a greater impact on your MIPS CPS than others.

    CMS has historically changed the category weights year to year. In 2024, the category weights were like this:

    1. Quality – 30%
    2. Promoting Interoperability – 25%
    3. Improvement Activities – 15%
    4. Cost – 30%

    Your final CPS for an MIPS healthcare performance year determines the payment adjustment for the fiscal year that is two years later. Generally, this means that there will be a two-year delay between when the individual impacts the performance year and when the actual impact feels them.

    For example, what was paid for during 2022 impacts payments for the fiscal year of 2024.

    MIPS Healthcare Performance Threshold

    Each year, CMS sets a minimum MIPS Composite Performance Score (CPS), called the “performance threshold,” that clinicians must meet to avoid penalties and potentially earn extra money. The penalties and rewards depend on how far your score is from this threshold, with adjustments based on a sliding scale.

    Here’s how it works for 2024, where the threshold was set at 75 points:

    0-18.75 Points: -9% penalty on Medicare payments

    18.76-74.99 Points: Penalty ranging from just below -8.99% up to 0%, based on your score

    75-100 Points: CMS redistributes funds from lower performers to those who meet the threshold, so if you score in this range, you could earn up to a 9% increase in Medicare payments.

    Is MIPS the Ideal Reporting Framework for You?

    Of course, CMS has other reporting options under the Quality Payment Program that may make more sense for your practice. Those options include MIPS Value Pathways (MVP), which measures performance specifically by specialty. It is eventually supposed to replace traditional MIPS and the APM Performance Pathway (APP) for Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs).

    4 Steps to Avoid MIPS Penalty in Payment Year 2024

    You can avoid MIPS healthcare penalties by following the steps below:

    1. Use the CMS QPP Participation Status Tool at the CMS official website to determine if you are eligible for MIPS. The tool will tell you if you are excluded from having to report MIPS. As you have low Medicare volume, you are new to Medicare during the performance year, or you are participating as a QP in an Advanced APM such as ACO. If you are excluded, you do not have to report MIPS data.
    2. If you need to report MIPS, first check whether your institution, employer, or group will report all of your MIPS data on your behalf. If so, they are reporting through group reporting ACO or an APM. You don’t have to report your data separately.
    3. If your data isn’t submitted for you, and you are not exempt, you will need to report your MIPS data yourself. Always remember that the performance threshold increased to 75 points for 2022, so you’ll likely report in all categories.
    4. You must have at least 75 points to avoid the MIPS healthcare penalty. You can no longer meet the threshold by not reporting in all four MIPS categories, which was permissible in prior years when the threshold was lower and category weights were less. According to the ACS, to maximize your chances of avoiding the penalty in the 2024 payment year, you should fully report in the Promoting Interoperability (PI), Improvement Activities (IA) and Quality categories (CMS calculates Cost).

    If you want to learn more about MIPS scoring and how you can improve it, you may consult with Prime Well Med Solutions now!

     

    How does MIPS affect payment adjustments?

    MIPS payment adjustments range between -9% and +2.15% for the year 2025. A MIPS score of 100 means you earn an addition of +2.15%. Federal law requires CMS to adjust MIPS payments in such a way that would ensure the budget as a whole remains balanced.

    Wrapping Up!

    You need to be aware of MIPS healthcare program requirements, focus on high-impact categories, and ensure accuracy in data submitted correctly and on time. These are the steps that healthcare providers have to carry out to avoid the MIPS penalty in 2024 and also enhance their quality of care as well as financial performance.

  • Importance of mental health in daily life – Health Cages

    Importance of mental health in daily life – Health Cages

    We are going to talk about why mental health and wellness are important. Both are important for several reasons, including overall well-being and crucial components of our overall well-being. If you are in Dubai and want to get consultancy regarding mental health, then contact with Psychologist consultant.

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

    Role of good and bad mental health in our life

    Good mental health allows us to feel a sense of happiness, fulfillment, and contentment in our lives. Physical health, mental health, and physical health are interconnected. Good mental health can lead to better physical health outcomes. Conversely, poor mental health can have negative effects on physical health, such as increased risk for chronic disease productivity.  Good mental health allows us to be more productive personally and professionally. When we are mentally healthy, we can better focus, make decisions, and complete tasks sufficiently.

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

    Role of Relationships mental health

    Relationships mental health also affects our ability to form and maintain relationships. Good mental health allows us to communicate effectively, form healthy attachments, and navigate interpersonal. Dynamics with greater ease, resilience, mental health, and wellness also contribute to our ability to bounce back from difficult situations and challenges with good mental health. We can better cope with stress, overcome adversity, and adapt to changing circumstances. Mental health and wellness are important because they contribute to our overall quality of life and well-being in numerous ways.

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

    Need of Mental Health

    It’s important to prioritize mental health and seek support when needed to maintain good mental health. Improved cognitive functioning Good mental health practices can improve cognitive functioning, including memory, attention, and decision-making abilities. This can lead to better academic and professional performance, greater control over one’s life, and greater emotional regulation. Good mental health practices can help individuals better regulate their emotions and respond to stressful situations healthily.

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

    This can support improved mental and physical health outcomes, better relationships with others, and better coping mechanisms. Good mental health practices can help individuals develop better coping mechanisms for dealing with stress and negative emotions. This can lead to reduced risk of harmful behaviors such as substance abuse, improved mental and physical health outcomes, and improved sense of purpose and meaning.

    Good mental health practices can help individuals develop a greater sense of purpose and meaning, leading to greater satisfaction and fulfillment. Dubai is a region for visitors due to its diversities and business opportunities, if during your tour, you are interested to start a business set up, you can consult with local business consultant to convert you imaginary plan into reality.

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

    Summary

    Mental health and wellness are important for many reasons, including improved cognitive functioning, greater emotional regulation, increased resilience to adversity, better coping mechanisms, and an improved sense. If you live in Texas and have problems like these, you can check psychiatrists in San Antonio and get help right away.

     

  • Real Turf Feel or Just Foam? The Truth About Today’s Best Golf Mats

    Real Turf Feel or Just Foam? The Truth About Today’s Best Golf Mats

    If you’ve ever hit off a cheap, spongy practice mat, you know the frustration: unrealistic feedback, jarring impact, and a swing experience that feels nothing like being on real grass. Whether you’re building a home simulator or looking to sharpen your short game in the backyard, choosing the right golf mat is more important than many golfers realize.

    The question is, how close do modern golf mats really come to mimicking the feel of natural turf—and how do you separate quality from gimmick? In this guide, we’ll break down the truth about today’s best golf mats and help you choose one that actually supports your game.

    Why Turf Realism Matters in a Practice Mat

    Swing Feel, Feedback, and Ball Flight

    The best practice doesn’t just come from hitting more balls—it comes from accurate practice. Mats that don’t replicate turf conditions can hide swing flaws or exaggerate poor contact. If the mat allows the club to “slide” through on fat shots or bounces it unnaturally, you’re not getting true feedback.

  • Coinbase CEO explains why he fired engineers who didn’t try AI immediately

    Coinbase CEO explains why he fired engineers who didn’t try AI immediately

    It’s hard to find programmers these days who aren’t using AI coding assistants in some capacity, especially to write the repetitive, mundane bits.

    But those who refused to try the tools when Coinbase bought enterprise licenses for GitHub Copilot and Cursor got promptly fired, CEO Brian Armstrong said this week on John Collison’s podcast “Cheeky Pint.” (Collison is the co-founder and president of the payments company Stripe.)

    After getting licenses to cover every engineer, some at the cryptocurrency exchange warned Armstrong that adoption would be slow, predicting it would take months to get even half the engineers using AI. 

    Armstrong was shocked at the thought. “I went rogue,” he said, and posted a mandate in the company’s main engineering Slack channel. “I said, ‘AI is important. We need you to all learn it and at least onboard. You don’t have to use it every day yet until we do some training, but at least onboard by the end of the week. And if not, I’m hosting a meeting on Saturday with everybody who hasn’t done it and I’d like to meet with you to understand why.’” 

    At the meeting, some people had reasonable explanations for not getting their AI assistant accounts set up during the week, like being on vacation, Armstrong said.

    “I jumped on this call on Saturday and there were a couple people that had not done it. Some of them had a good reason, because they were just getting back from some trip or something, and some of them didn’t [have a good reason]. And they got fired.”

    Armstrong admits that it was a “heavy-handed approach” and there were people in the company who “didn’t like it.”

    Techcrunch event

    Tech and VC heavyweights join the Disrupt 2025 agenda

    Netflix, ElevenLabs, Wayve, Sequoia Capital, Elad Gil — just a few of the heavy hitters joining the Disrupt 2025 agenda. They’re here to deliver the insights that fuel startup growth and sharpen your edge. Don’t miss the 20th anniversary of TechCrunch Disrupt, and a chance to learn from the top voices in tech — grab your ticket now and save up to $600+ before prices rise.

    Tech and VC heavyweights join the Disrupt 2025 agenda

    Netflix, ElevenLabs, Wayve, Sequoia Capital — just a few of the heavy hitters joining the Disrupt 2025 agenda. They’re here to deliver the insights that fuel startup growth and sharpen your edge. Don’t miss the 20th anniversary of TechCrunch Disrupt, and a chance to learn from the top voices in tech — grab your ticket now and save up to $675 before prices rise.

    San Francisco
    |
    October 27-29, 2025

    REGISTER NOW

    While it doesn’t sound like very many people were fired, Armstrong said it sent a clear message that AI is not optional. Still, everything about that story is wild: that there were engineers who wouldn’t spend a few minutes of their week signing up for and testing the AI assistant — the most hyped tech for coders ever — and that Armstrong was willing to fire them over it.

    Coinbase did not respond to a request for comment.

    Since then, Armstrong has leaned further into the training. He said the company hosts monthly meetings where teams who have mastered creative ways to use AI share what they have learned.

    Interestingly, Collison, who has been programming since childhood, questioned how much companies should be relying on AI-generated code.

    “It’s clear that it is very helpful to have AI helping you write code. It’s not clear how you run an AI-coded code base,” he commented. Armstrong replied, “I agree.”

    Indeed, as TechCrunch previously reported, a former OpenAI engineer described that company’s central code repository as “a bit of a dumping ground.” The engineer said management had begun dedicating engineering resources to improve the situation.

    We’re always looking to evolve, and by providing some insight into your perspective and feedback into TechCrunch and our coverage and events, you can help us! Fill out this survey to let us know how we’re doing and get the chance to win a prize in return!