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You're wrong: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-2216238/Now-theres-ice-South-Pole-So-global-warming-thawing-Antarctica.html
Furthermore drought in Russia, Europe, and Australia means they aren't having bumper crops to offset that loss.
I can't speak for Russia or Europe, but Australia is definitely not in a drought and hasn't been for at least the last 2 years. In fact at the moment we are in the middle of a La Nina event, with more flooding than anything else. Most of our dams are either at 100% capacity, or close to that as well - they'd in fact all be at 100% if it wasn't for "environmental flows".
Wow, exaggerate much?
Let me answer some of the angry points you made, ok?
And those going to Mars will also have a breathable atmosphere. It is just that it will be a limited confinement.
Indeed, they will have a very limited breathable atmosphere that they have entirely imported with them from Earth and will be reliant for the rest of their lives to ensure that the machines which maintain said breathable atmosphere do not break down.
Look, just because you are afraid of the unknown, does not mean that others are. Many would willing give their life to help build an establishment for their country or just for science. When my children are adults and able to take care fo themselves, I would volunteer (though my wife is likely to nix that). Why? BECAUSE IT IS A BETTER FUTURE FOR ALL. We NEED to take RISKS. Without those, you do not have the opportunity to make huge discoveries.
There's hardly anything unknown to fear here. The risks are entirely known, although granted, it is possible that there may be some unexpected issues that crop up when we finally do get to mars that the boffins on Earth hadn't foreseen. And yes, if the issue was to start a colony on Mars without a return trip to Earth, then that is fantastic, but more likely, this will be a one way mission for a bunch of astronaughts to do science and not actually establish a colony. Colonisation of Mars is highly unlikely to take place any time in the next 25-50 years. Further, our need to take risk must be mitigated by the potential gains. What exactly is it that we would gain by sending Astronaughts on a one-way almost certain suicide mission at great expense to Mars, which cheaper unmanned missions could not accomplish?
Personally, I am tired of those that want to conqueror others on this planet for their resources (read murder), but then get upset about out taking risks that MIGHT kill a person. The west use to be heroic and be willing to get it done. Now, we act like our individual life is all that. Give me a break.
WTF? Now you're just ranting off at a tangent. How about, personally I am just tired of people responding to a post in a knee-jerk manner and making all sorts of assumptions based on zero factual evidence.
This is now. Later is later.


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The game is run through the series of events\challenges that are divided into four separate categories. Categories, tracks and vehicles are unlocked as player progresses throughout the game. After selecting the class (only the first class is enabled at the beginning) selection of events follows. At the start of the game number of events is limited but it increases in time depending mainly on player's score. Unlocked events can be played an unlimited number of times and each time player can win points and money for the selected event.
The transition from the lower to the higher class is achieved by winning in the special boss tournament event. Besides the players, various AI simulated drivers engage in events and challenges. All AI drivers are simulated according to their parameters and settings. Computer opponents can progress and improve their vehicles in a way similar to the player's. This provides an additional reality aspect for the whole game. For each category there is an official rank roster which shows the current positions for all the drivers.
The player must achieve victories on a regular basis to be consistently at the top and earn the money to maintain his vehicle and save some for a new one. All upgrades come with price tags, which rise depending on the class car type.
Standard types of events/challenges are races, knock-outs and tournaments. Some events have prerequisites that have to be met before participating in the race (specific class, car type, car color, type of weapon allowed...).
The Hammerhead Bundle is the latest ferocious collection in Indie Royale's on-going quest to bring you the hottest and most interesting indie games out there in the wilds of underground development.
This week's bundle is worth in excess of $70 when purchased separately and brings together Primordia, Pressure, Forge, Richard and Alice and Gas Guzzlers: Combat Carnage.
Wadjet Eye's Primordia is a modern adventure game set in a far distant future where humans are extinct and robots rule the world. Described by the magazine Games Master as "a throwback to the genre's glory days" this smart, philosophically minded journey sees you accompany Horatio Nullbuilt and his sarcastic helper Crispin as they attempt to fix their starship in order to leave the planet. With humorous, intelligent writing and a striking art style, Primordia offers an adventure everyone will want to chase through to its dizzying conclusion.
Primordia is available for Windows on Steam, DRM-free & Desura.
By combining an over-the-top arcade-style racing game with shoot 'em up mechanics, Pressure is, as one critic put it, the "2D shooter evolved". Set in a vibrant steampunk world, you play as Morgan, tasked with collecting and returning water to his river after it's been stolen for use in a "uber-spa" by the evil Count Soap II. Race through checkpoints destroying enemy vehicles in order to keep your 'pressure' gauge filled as you compete across 30 levels. A local and online multiplayer mode allows you to team up with others in this unique and comical blend of game styles.
Pressure is available for Windows on Steam, DRM-free & Desura.
Forge is an online, class based multiplayer shooter set in a distinct fantasy universe. Forge features only the best aspects of MMO and FPS class based combat to provide a multiplayer gameplay experience unlike anything you've played before. Armed with a set of powerful and unique abilities as well as a powerful and deadly ally, each warrior must overcome the varied challenges of Forge where every kill is a sacrifice and every sacrifice brings them one step closer to freedom.
Forge is available for Windows on Steam.
This minimalist tale of two prisoners trapped in an underground facility was described by Destructoid as "thoughtful, slow-burning [and] poignant." Through a series of affecting conversations, the pair -- one of whom has been incarcerated for murder, the other for deserting the military -- open up about their backstories drawing one another, and the player, into their lives. At the heart of this often bleak, melancholic game lies an appealing warmth, one that stays with you long after the story is concluded.
Richard and Alice is available for Windows on DRM-free & Desura.
Take to the open road in Gas Guzzlers: Combat Carnage, a fast-paced 3D combat racing game that features a host of different vehicles, weapons, upgrades, on-track bonuses as well as distinctive and highly detailed environments. Start your career with a beginner's performance vehicle and work your way up the rankings by earning money in a series of challenging races. Along with developing your driving and fighting skills, you must invest your hard-earned money wisely in order to maximise your chances on the track.
Gas Guzzlers: Combat Carnage is available for Windows on DRM-free Desura.
View interviews with some of the developers whose games we've have been featured in different Indie Royale bundles on our YouTube channel check in for the latest videos.
You can find more information on The Hammerhead Bundle, including real-time statistics and its current price, on its official website or via its Facebook, Twitter and Google+ pages. As ever, the bundle is cheaper the sooner that you purchase its (unless, of course, some kind purchaser opts to lower the price for others) although there is tremendous value here whatever price you pay.
1.3.1 patch is ready for download. The patch contains many single player and multiplayer bug fixes. Patch can be applied on any version of the game and...
1.3 patch is ready for download! The patch contains many single player and multiplayer bug fixes and many new features as well. 1.3 patch can be applied...
Finally the Gas Guzzlers DEMO is ready for download! The demo includes changes made for the 1.3 patch.
Gas Guzzlers won second place on European Games Award 2012 for best racing game. Thanks to everyone who voted for us.
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Great review Youtube.com
Pretty cool game, though what I don't like is how, if the AI cars hit you, you go wildly out of control way more often than if you hit them.
I installed the demo on my Windows 7 Pro machine, but when I go to launch it, I get the following error:
"The program can't start because d3dx9_43.dll is missing from your computer, Try reinstalling the program to fix this problem"
I have reinstalled, but still get this...
My graphics card is an XFX Radeon HD 4890 1gb, which should easile meet min requirements, along with the rest of my PC.
From what I've read, it's a problem with Direct X, so try downloading the newest version of Direct X:
Got the latest DX, and the game launches full-screen, but it comes up with a blury red and white screen with "Missing" in the middle, clicking causes the game to stop working and crash to the desktop.
You can also download the file here:
Then you unzip the file and put the DLL in the
folder of the binary.
I have the DX plugins, it's the content in the game that's missing.
I think there is ment to be an advertisment at the very beginning, after two missing screens, there is music for a second, then it stops working and closes.
It's not demo but beta so it has some minor errors. Red and white means that download was corrupted so you need to download it again i think
I think they are totally justified in charghing 32 bucks. From what I saw in the trailer, the graphics alone make it look ALOT better than most indie titles, and the game looks pretty sweet being played. At least they didn't ask you for 60 bucks.
No, it's the non-indie games that are way too expensive. 50€ for a game? That's over 10% of my monthly paycheck. Luckily I got the indies to play.
we pay $99 for a game usually. sucks.
oh my lord, where the hell do you live!?
Poland (Eastern Europe), most ppl here earn 250-300€/month, which is the minimum wage. With high unemployment rates the companies don't have a need to pay anybody more, cause nobody will quit cause their only alternative is no job/pay at all. I am very lucky to earn quite a bit more than the minimum, but still it's 4x less than ppl earn in e.g. Germany for a similar job.
Highest Rated (12 agree) 10/10
Well, what have we here? A Croatian indie vehicular combat racer. Sounds like a winning combination, doesn't it? Well, let's find out in this review, shall we?(char limit :/) Graphics: 9.5 This game delivers. The graphics are big budget quality. The car reflections, smoke and dust effects look great, and it is very pleasing to the eye. My PC ran it without problems. Cars take damage and the fender benders and crashes really leave their mark on the cars, however this has no effect on car performance…
May 31 2012 by SoanoS

subset: commoncrawl


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El Viajero Cartagena HostelCartagena, Colombia
I was impressed with the location and the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff. We booked a tour out to Baru Island through the hostel that was great. The location is walking distance to everything in the walled city. My only complaint would be that the other travelers were not necessarily friendly or looking to meet other people but then again that could just be my fault. Also, the air condition was very strong which was greatly appreciated given how hot it was in July. Overall great stay.
Pariwana Hostel CuscoCusco, Peru
This is a great place to stay. It is a classic building adjacent to Plaza de Armas. The rooms are nice and the beds are clean and comfortable. The bar has a great atmosphere, cheap drinks, and tasty food. I only stayed there one night, but I wish I could have spent more of my time in Cusco at Pariwana.
Intro Hostels CuscoCusco, Peru
I really liked the staff, especially the bar staff. They were cool and put on good movies. I did the tour of the sacred valley that was offered by the hostel and it was a good service for a fair price. I used the bag check, but was worried the whole time. It's a flimsy system designed around the honor code - a system that could be easily taken advantage of by a predatory guest. That made me uncomfortable. Otherwise, everything was great. The beds, though not the most comfortable, were clean.
Red Psycho Llama Eco HostelLima, Peru
This is a great spot right in Miraflores district and a short cab ride away from Barranco. The hostel staff arranged to pick me up from the airport and they also dropped me off. Both services were seamless. The staff was very friendly and helpful. This was a great spot to hang out and a good starting point from which to explore Lima
The BulldogAmsterdam, Netherlands
This place is in a great location near the Red Light District. The bar downstairs is good and the coffee shop is well stocked with average prices. My 8 person dorm was pretty cramped space-wise but the shower and bathroom situation was good - better than I expected. I'd stay at The Bulldog again.
Sant Jordi AlbergBarcelona, Spain
This hostel has an amazing communal atmosphere where everyone hangs out together and does things at night together. This is a great hostel for meeting people and socializing. The facilities are extremely clean and the staff is very helpful and friendly. This was my favorite hostel in Europe.
Paraga Beach HostelMykonos, Greece
The fact that the hostel is located on a party beach seems cool at first until you come to two distinct realizations. One, the bar does not give any preference to hostel guests and throttles you with extremely high drink prices. Two, I heard the same three songs played at max volume for four days straight. I thought I was going to have to check into an insane asylum because I couldn't get away from the repetitive cacophony that somehow passed as a dj spinning.
Athens BackpackersAthens, Greece
I'm not sure what made everyone else review this place so highly. It was advertised as having air conditioning, but made it extremely difficult to use. The rooftop bar, which has an incredible view, closes at 2200 and very few of the guests at this hostel even make it up to the bar. All in all this hostel is just a place to crash that is extremely close to the Acropolis.
Retox Party HostelBudapest, Hungary
For young people traveling through Budapest andlooking to party and meet people, this is a great place to go.
St Christophers PraguePrague, Czech Republic
The bar hop is fun and the staff that run it are fun people. Don't go to the fourth place karlovy lazne as it is a excessively hot sausage fest populated by high schoolers. The location is central so you can easily see everything. The staff is friendly and gives you the scoop on where to go. Also, it's easy to meet people and then go out partying with them if that's what you're looking for.


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Waterproof Notebook
Lightbulb moment in the shower? Now you can put it to paper!
It's worth stopping to consider the ideas, theories and world-beating strategies that might've been lost in the shower.
Who knows what lost classic song John Lennon could have hummed whilst sudding himself and then forgotten? What literary masterpiece tumbled out of Shakespeare's head because he was busy with the loofah? If only they'd had the Waterproof Notebook on hand to scribble down their precious musings!
Thankfully, this problem won't affect you if you get your (sopping wet) hands on one yourself. By some feat of Jacobean witchcraft (probably), it's perfectly possible for you to write your innermost thoughts on this shower-safe little notepad. Or, just a note to remind yourself to buy some loo roll.
Either way, your days of bathroom-based memory-loss are numbered. Next time you're struck by genius in the bath, just jot it down on this little lifesaver.
- A totally waterproof notebook
- Pencil included (it'd be pretty useless without one)
- Jot down those burning issues before you forget them
- 80 pages of waterproof paper for you to tear out
- Slick, classy, black finish
- Elasticated strap to keep it closed and to hold the pen in place
- Perfect for shopping lists, random thoughts or offensive notes to people that haven't cleaned the bathroom
- Suitable for ages 12+
- 10 x 15 x 3cm
Product Details
Delivery & Returns
How long will it take to arrive?
Please remember to add postal time (2-3 working days) to obtain a complete estimate of delivery to your door.
How will I know it has been sent?
You will receive an email to confirm when your item has been sent.
You can also check the status of your order and individual items by accessing My Account details and following the prompts.
Please allow 10 working days from dispatch of your order before notifying us of any late deliveries.
It may be advisable to check with your neighbours to see if a parcel has been left with them, check any outhouses you might have where it may be left if it cannot fit through your letterbox and contact your local sorting office to see if the item has been returned to the depot as undelivered and awaiting collection.
If I'm not completely happy with my item?
Please see our returns policy.
Customers who bought this also bought:
Customer Reviews
Where reviews refer to foods or cosmetic products, results may vary from person to person. Customer reviews are independent and do not represent the views of The Hut Group.
(16 Reviews)
Write a review to be in with a chance of winning a £100 voucher
Perfect item
Total :
This was brought as a gift for my sister who enjoys writing, however she always tells me she gets great ideas for a story while she is in the bath but can't write whilst in there as the paper gets wet. So this is the perfect solution
Total :
when it arrived the item was incomplete. if the item was complete I would of really liked it as it looked really good.
Absolutely awesome!
Total :
It looks fabulous and works wonderfully! So much love.
Take nite
Total :
This is stocking filler for someone who does the whole surveying geophysics type of work and one of the most common complaints from him was the inability to write in the rain, why you would want to write in the rain is beyond me however surveying types do apparently. This ticks the writing in the rain boxes though I cannot verify if it works as this is a present and has not been used yet hence the 4 stars there are plenty of pages and looks good as a product
Total :
Great quality, perfect gift for yourself or someone else!
waterproof notebook
Total :
Bought as a quirky gift. Looks fine.
Water fun
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Bought this for a canoeist. He has found it useful and it was great to see the experission when he tested it
waterproof notebook
Total :
Bought for a friend who loves camping in all weathers! She loves it as it's small enough to take anywhere, you can tear the pages out, and you're always able to scribble something down! Only downside is that the pencil isn't attached, otherwise would be 5 stars!
Handy sized book
Total :
When I bought this, I thought it was a standard size but when it arrived its actually A5 size so its handy to put in your handbag or work bag. Great item
NIce but nothing to mount the pencil
Total :
The Waterproof Notebook is nice and even for under water it is nice to mount it with the elastic band. But the pencil sadly has no possibility to be mounted. That is sad as you might loose the pencil when you cannot mount it somewhere!
Waterproof Notebook
Total :
Fantastic Product Just what my dad needs whilst working outside!
Ideal for bath thinkers
Total :
This version looks professional. Fantastic little idea that works perfectly and looks the part. Great for a gift.
Brilliant Idea!
Total :
I was recently given this Waterproof Notebook as a Birthday present and I find it to be fantastic! It works! My only problem is that my bath water gets cold while I'm doodling!
Total :
Every time I take my diary to a lovely, hot bath I drop it in by accident. At least I have found out that there is a Waterproof Notebook!
Total :
I participate in scuba diving with my family and its hard to remember the arm signals to give so we just point at things this usally leads to experiences being missed. With the note book we can finaly get a message accross that doesnt involve us waving our arms around.
waterproof 'flippin sweet' notebook
Total :
this awesome note book is soo cool, i can write reminders to myself whenever the wether 'never mind the weather, never mind the rain' this notebook puts that song into play in style. the ingenious design makes worth going outside just too write!!!


text: HomeFight Shows UFC on FUEL 6 Post-Fight Press Conference Video From Macao Bruno November 10, 2012 Fight Shows 5 Comments UFC on FUEL 6 Post-Fight Press Conference Video From Macao. Tweet Pin It Wladimir Klitschko vs Mariusz Wach Fight Video Boxing WBA, IBF Rich Franklin vs Cung Le Fight Finish Gif 5 Comments Victoria, BC --Canada November 10, 2012 Kung Le is one of the UFC's best role models. Log in to Reply BruceLee November 11, 2012 Agree^^^. He's humble and has the martial arts spirit! Log in to Reply smurfette November 11, 2012 If only love could spread throughout the world as fast as violence, things would be just smurfy! Log in to Reply juniorsdoslightsout November 11, 2012 why dont you go smurf yourself smurfette Log in to Reply eyesawake November 13, 2012 Smurfette vs Lee Log in to Reply Leave a Reply Cancel replyYou must be logged in to post a comment.


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How to help your student prepare for their career during the summer:
Catch-Up/Get Ahead: Taking a Summer Class
After a tough spring semester, taking a summer class may be the last thought on the mind of your student. Your student may not know that summer classes can be a quick way to make up for not taking 15 credit hours in the Fall and Spring semesters or to get ahead and finish their degree early. There are three different ways that your student can take a summer class: Maymester which lasts May 18th until June 26th 2015, Module II which lasts June 15th until August 7th, and a Module III which lasts July 13th until August 7th. Here are some advantages of your student taking a course this summer:
- Summer classes tend to be short. Usually six to eight weeks long.
- Summer classes are often less formal and more relaxed. Students often prefer summer classes due to this environment and the increased potential for interacting with the instructor.
- Due to the intensity of summer classes, students tend to take one or two at a time. This allows for students to give all of their attention to fewer courses.
- Summer classes are a great opportunity for your student to sample a major/minor that they want to explore. This allows for them to focus on the new subject, and the potential to continue this exploration.
Summer classes are a great way for your student to gain new experiences and connections. It is important to note that financial aid often does not cover summer courses. If your student is interested in taking a summer course, have them contact the Financial Aid Office at 219-989-2301 to see what options they have to cover their tuition.
Utilize the Career Center
The Career Center at Purdue University Calumet offers your student a broad range of services for each phase of their academic career. A few of these services include:
- Career Planning
- Externships/Information Interviews/Job Shadowing
- Internship Search Strategies
- Resume/Cover Letter Development
- Interview Preparation
- Graduate School Preparation
- Job Search Strategies
- On-Campus and Off-Campus Student Employment Search
During the summer, your student will have more freedom to work a summer job, build up their resume, and prepare themselves for a career after graduation. Help your student utilize these resources during the summer. You can help them create their resume, or encourage them to attend a drop-in career advising review session. Your student can contact the Career Center during their office hours of 8am-4:30pm at 219-989-2600 or firstname.lastname@example.com. Have them check out the Career Center website. Remember to give your student the encouragement and help that they need to further their future career!
Make Career Connections
The summer gives your student the freedom to make the best of preparing for their future career. The possibilities are endless in ways that your student can make new connections, create new opportunities, and gain experiences in methods outside of the customary classroom setting. Here are a few ways that your student can utilize their summer:
- Apply to an internship that is related to their career field. This will allow your student to gain hands-on experience, which is something that companies look for when your student begins applying to careers after graduation.
- Volunteer around the community. Students who are willing to go out into the community and make connections are more likely to have success in their career after graduation.
- Study abroad. Purdue Calumet offers many study abroad opportunities that will help your student gain experiential and discovery learning. They can also gain class credit. For questions about your student studying abroad, contact the International Affairs Office-Education Abroad at 219-989-2861 or email@example.com.
The summer is a great time for your student to continue their education outside the classroom. By making connections, gaining hands-on experience, and stepping outside of the classroom setting, your student will make themselves sought-after on the career path that they take after graduation.


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Ogre bug
Can't get my ogre's back to city after I get back to my town with the army.
When I try get my ogres into town, game just force quits
I've just tested this and I can confirm that this is indeed a bug, and a pretty severe one too. It will give a "dof.exe has stopped working" error.
to be more specific,
if i try start a quest with ogres, quest crash instantly and game end
so there is a bug on this troop
Oh Boy, half of my army is Ogres. I haven't experienced this bug that much, had a few Dof crashes that I couldn't ID the probably cause/pattern. Maybe the Ogres are it. I'm just glad to actually be able to play for the most part since 1.06
Since when has this been occuring to you?
since new patch -_-
Sometimes I can put away my ogres, sometimes it crashes
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If Christians, constitutionalists, and conservatives were already concerned about apathy gripping the nation at a time when we need eternal vigilance, I'm guessing a rallying cry of vote for the guy "that will do the least amount of damage" won't do much to awaken our fellow Americans from their slumber.
But that's exactly what was printed on an otherwise brilliant handout on Christians and political activism I was given at the recent National Religious Broadcasters Convention. This handout from a respected Christian apologist provided a pithy and principled summary on why people of faith not only need to be involved in civic affairs, but have a moral obligation to be.
I was tracking with him the whole way, until the very end.
That's when the handout abandons its moral certainty for a moral murkiness that recreates the failed paradigm deconstructed in my new book We Won't Get Fooled Again: Where the Christian Right Went Wrong and How to Make America Right Again.
At the very end the handout addresses the question of "the lesser of two evils." It says on one hand since Christians believe "there is none righteous" and "no one is good but God," we are in essence always practically voting for the lesser of two evils to some extent. I agree with that. But its remedy to this moral dilemma I do not.
To resolve this moral dilemma, the handout suggests voting for the candidate "that will do the least amount of damage." Ugh. If anything, I think I might actually like "the lesser of two evils" better. At least it's catchier and has some brand name cache.
But the candidate "that will do the least amount of damage" as an alternative? Can't you just see every mom telling their daughters to go out there and find the husband/father "that will do the least amount of damage" to spend their lives with? Doesn't every girl dream of one day marrying the man "that will do the least amount of damage?" Just as every father hopes to one day raise a son into a man "that will do the least amount of damage" I'm sure. How many NFL teams have won Super Bowls by drafting players "that will do the least amount of damage" for their franchise?


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Gary White, Emily Wageman, Ann Poole, Tia Pullen and Cheryl Evans with the collection buckets.
/ News
SHOPPERS at Tesco in Burnham have donated almost £2,000 to the flood relief efforts.
Buckets have been filling up with coins in Tesco, which will be donated to the Somerset Flood Relief Fund.
Tesco stores across the South-West are aiming to donate £50,000 to the flood relief fund through fundraising efforts such as this.
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Changes in Latitude: Comparing Health Care Systems with Nurses Down UnderOctober 26, 2011
By Peggy McDaniel, BSN, RN, who writes the occasional post for this blog and currently works as a clinical liaison support manager of infusion in Australia, New Zealand, and Asia Pacific.
I recently found myself sitting on a boat, enjoying a "sausage sizzle," dressed as a pirate no less. In Australia, a party that includes barbecued meat usually includes sausage; thus the name. The pirate theme was an added bonus. As an American and a nurse, I was pleasantly surprised to find myself seated at the same table as two Australian nurses. What were the chances of that? The conversation that evening gave me some insight into the Australian health care system, which I am just getting familiar with.
Comparing health care systems. Once we all realized we were experienced nurses and shared the belief that quality patient care should always be the primary focus of health care, the conversation turned to cost. In Australia, there is a public health option that all Australians can access. It is paid for by taxes. If you choose to do so, you can also purchase a private plan to supplement this public option. I have yet to determine what part, if any, employers play in paying for health care or private insurance. However, a sick Australian will always get care and not incur a lifetime of debt for that care within their public health care system.
My fellow nurses were amazed to hear that in the U.S., you may not have health insurance for a variety of reasons. One of the nurses purchases private insurance as a "backup" to public care. She used this coverage for an elective procedure, chose her own surgeon and private hospital, and was able to schedule the procedure in a timely manner. This same nurse admitted that if you need a new hip or knee and you only have public coverage, you may have to wait for up to a year. However, if you have cancer and need treatment, it will start promptly after diagnosis, whether or not you have private insurance or not.
Both nurses asserted that the care for acute and emergent issues is of high quality in the public hospitals. They were able to give me examples of how the system works, from a personal and work perspective.
As in the U.S., hospitals here in Australia are struggling with the rising costs of health care. The public hospitals in each state utilize their group buying power to purchase supplies and equipment, which helps keep costs down. The private hospitals often have a bit more polish and shine, but all the hospitals strive to give Australians high quality care and the nurses I've met are passionate about that goal.
Imitate the American system? One of the nurses I chatted with exclaimed, "Our politicians keep telling us that we should be more like the American system, but I think that's a mistake. What do you think?" Admittedly, I have much to learn about Australian health care, but so far I have to agree with her. As an American who has gone without health insurance because I was rejected due to preexisting conditions and was not employed full-time, I thought this system sounded pretty reasonable. The Australian nurses certainly felt that anything less would be unacceptable.
I've been lucky enough to work in hospitals all across the U.S. and in the U.S. Virgin Islands, as well as visiting hospitals in various countries, including China, Malaysia, Kenya, Honduras, and elsewhere. Are American hospitals clean and full of high quality equipment? Are our medical professionals trained to the highest standards? Are we often treated to a private room with our own TV and bathroom? If you are an American and have been in the hospital, you can answer these questions based on your own experience, which may vary fairly widely based on the hospital you went to as well as your income level…
The common denominator. Are all hospitals the same around the world? I am sure you can guess what I've seen and the answer is an emphatic no. But I can tell you that nurses are the common denominator. They work hard every day to care for their patients in a variety of settings. I've seen everything from state-of-the-art facilities and equipment to open air shacks with the bare minimum of supplies, multiple patients in a room (maybe to a bed), and family members bringing in food, linens, and soap.
The pirate theme has been a part of my life since about 1992, when I was lucky enough to spend time living on a sailboat in the Caribbean. During that time I listened to a lot of Jimmy Buffett. It's pretty much nonnegotiable—he is as much a part of that culture as fish are to the sea. One of my favourite songs remains "Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes."
After criss-crossing quite a few of these lines on our globe, I've learned that wherever I find myself, nurses and their attitude towards providing quality patient care are as constant as the stars that have guided sailors for generations. This is inspiring to me and always reminds me how proud I am to be part of the global nursing family.
Editor's note: here's a Wikipedia page giving an overview of the Australian health care system. We can't vouch for its accuracy, but it appears to give a good basic overview of how public and private plans function in relation to each other, who pays for health care, etc.
Posted in Health care reform, International nursing, Nursing perspective | Tagged Australia, Health care, insurance, Jimmy Buffett, Nurses, United States |
44 comments
In my studies concerning Global Health, we have come across and number of lower cost alternatives for basic health care needs. Health care costs continue to rise despite our best efforts to keep costs down, and all we hear from government officials concerns raising taxes to continue to fund a bottomless pit of rising healthcare costs. For example, there is a $25 incubator used with only hot water, a $30 centrifuge that is hand powered (yes, no electricity), and a 3 cent biodegradable toilet. If we can charge our college stduents with alternatives for lower cost, basic health care needs, why can't we charge our graduates working in the private sector with the same task?
In our current system, all eyes are on the Affordable Care Act, which attempts to remedy our healthcare problems. However, I unfortunately, do not see my job changing in any way, shape or form. I am employed in an Emergency Room where the populationo includes a majority of impoverished, uninsured, and immigrant patients who seek all medical care in the Emergency Department. Even with the Affordable Care Act (which does not cover immigrants), we will continue to serve the exact same population.
It is interesting to note that the population of Australia is happy with their healthcare system, which is not surprising since when emergency care is sought, it is available to them. However, the United States has a daunting task ahead of them until they can perfect the healthcare system.
LikeLikeby Jessica Celotio August 2, 2013 at 10:58 pm
I believe most Americans agree that a healthcare reform is necessary. There is something wrong with a system in which a cancer patient is bounced from hospital to hospital because he does not have health insurance. Or a 22-year-old patient found to have a brain tumor has to wait six to eight months to be seen by a specialist at the local teaching hospital because of the same reason (no insurance). The healthcare reform that will take in effect next year will not be available to a large amount of people who need it. For example, due to income restrictions, a family of four with a total income of $40,000 will not be eligible to purchase the insurance offered by the government. Federal poverty level for a family of four is $22,050. Who can live on that in this economy? Also, it will still be cheaper for employers to pay a $2000 fine per worker annually, than to spend thousands more covering the employee and his/her family. Meanwhile, my family's insurance premiums are going up next year because this "government insurance," is being funded in part, by imposing a 40% tax on "high-end" insurance plans. So, the Australian healthcare system, as well as the French and many other overseas nations' healthcare systems sound like an improvement. I don't believe this has to necessarily be funded through additional taxes. It is simply a matter of allocation of funds and resources.
LikeLikeby Martha Dana July 16, 2013 at 9:52 pm
Thanks for posting about your experiences in global health and the system in Australia. I agree with you that the United States should be more like the Australian system. I take the global health stance of access to healthcare being a right rather than a privilege. It's still shocking to me that the U.S. is one of the few, if not the only, developed nation in the world that doesn't have universal healthcare. Yet, it ranked #1 out of 193 countries in total health expenditure as a percent of GDP.
I believe that installing state-run insurance exchanges and closing gaps in coverage will help curb costs and expand coverage to nearly 50 million currently uninsured Americans. Like many, I will be waiting to evaluate the effects once the changes take effect.
LikeLikeby Lam Huynh April 15, 2013 at 11:56 pm
I found this article very refreshing. As a nurse, I find it a little surprising that other nurses are so opposed to the Health Care Reform and what it would mean for the millions of uninsured individuals in our country. I agree with McDaniel when she says that the goal of nurses around the world is to provide quality care to their patients; that can be difficult to do when the patient never makes it to a hospital room.
The healthcare system in Australia seems to be similar to the European and Canadian standards, and it seems that the U.S. should imitate them, not the other way around. It was enlightening to hear her account of the nurses' stories, and to know that emergency and critical situations are dealt with in a timely manner.
LikeLikeby Marlene Perez April 10, 2013 at 4:39 am
I am happy to see that nurses around the world, whether they are from a wealthy nation or the poorest country in the world, understand the common goal of this career, the patient. The more I read articles from the web, the more I feel part of a global family of caring individuals. As for the health care system of this nation, it is time to step up and ensure that the right of every human being to have access to universal health care is protected. It is impressive to see how other nations with a smaller GDP than the U.S are able to provide care for their citizens. I think that we as nurses should cease this important moment in our nation's history and push collectively in a manner never seen before to ensure that legislators stop working only for those who only seek wealth on the backs of the people and work for the people ensuring that universal care is provided to every man, woman and child of this great nation.
LikeLikeby Chris G. November 26, 2012 at 9:42 pm
It is pretty interesting to read about an experienced nurse's perspective of how our health care system works; this is even more amazing during this era of "Obamacare" and other governmental solutions to fix or break our health care system. A lot of disagreement has been shown among health care workers about what is the right way to go, but there is something that everybody agrees on: our health care professionals are educated with the highest standards and high quality patient care is always a priority. It is true that receiving medical attention without health insurance could become very difficult, even impossible, and government-funded plans usually do not provided enough coverage or it limits your choice of doctors or hospitals; the decision of who and where you should received medical care should not be made by plans or numbers, it should be made by those suffering the disease or condition.
LikeLikeby Yanet L. November 26, 2012 at 7:59 pm
The past few months have been quite eye opening for me in regards to global health care. It amazes me every time I learn of yet another country 's healthcare system that put US healthcare system to shame. It greatly saddens me to hear that Australia has leaders that want their healthcare to be more like US healthcare!
It seems as though healthcare facilities, pharmaceutical and insurance companies in the US are more interested in "making a dollar" than truly providing "health care" to its clients. If the government truly wants to reform healthcare in the US, they should start by placing a monetary cap on the amount that can be charged for healthcare services and tests, as they do in Japan. This would make healthcare more affordable for everyone right off the bat.
The US needs to take a good look around the world at successful healthcare systems in other countries. While I agree that something needs to be done (and done quickly) I fear that they are quick to offer out insurance on the front end, while they have little solid planning in place on the back end.
LikeLikeby Danine July 31, 2012 at 9:09 pm
Being a nurse in a diverse metropolitan community like Miami, Fl. it is a sobering reality that America's healthcare system, while progressive in terms of technology and techniques, is draconian when we consider how its funded and who is covered. The average American citizen believes that healthcare is important for them to have, but debates whether it should be extended to everyone else.
Our priorities are convoluted because of a false perception that by extending healthcare to every person in America, we will somehow create a welfare state. Americans pay more for healthcare that is less proactive to health and well-being relative to othe comparable industrialized countries.
Many of our legislative leaders are too easily influenced by the economic and coercive power of insurance and pharmaceutical companies to listen to the pleas of their fragmented constituencies. While current healthcare reform is attempting to correct some inequities, the change is slow and people are still suffering and/or dying.
I am a healthy male nurse and a father but cannot afford health insurance for myself or my family!
LikeLikeby Humbe July 23, 2012 at 11:27 am
Changes in Latitude: After reading this entry, I find myself thinking about the different types of health care insurances globally. The simplicity of Australia's health care makes me wonder how ours can be so complicated. I found it fascinating that Australian's have health care that is paid for through taxpayers. I also thought that it was interesting to see that if they wanted extra or supplemental that you could purchase private insurance. I also agreed with the writer (a nurse, of course) that it was truly amazing how the health care insurance providers had nothing to do with employers. So, why in the United States, have we adopted this concept? My personal opinion……money! We are a greedy population. Instead of focusing on better health and safety, Americans focus on money. Unfortunately, I do not see this going away anytime soon.
LikeLikeby Stacie Anderson April 16, 2012 at 8:27 pm
A comparison between how healthcare is handled around the world is an important task that governments should take into account. Health care is an important part of every society, leaders and healthcare professionals should have a consensus on what works and what does not work when caring and paying for the wellbeing of people. As an American nurse, I consider myself knowledgeable of the ways health insurance companies and the government distributes health care between people. As a Spanish natural, I have had the good fortune of experiencing firsthand the healthcare system of a completely different country, on a completely different continent. In my opinion, the American health care system is one of the most technologically advanced systems in the world. That still does not occult the fact that we are ranked number 37 of the World Health Organization's list of best health cares, but why? Well frankly, I think the main reason is the unfairness of the American system. During my 15 years of living in Spain, I was never rejected any kind of care, from emergency to regular doctor's visits. I was treated for knee problems due to my obsession with playing soccer, and many different infections, from the common cold to stomach infections, even pneumonia once. All this was covered by the government run health care system. I was fortunate enough to have a private plan, but that was mostly to get private hospitals and doctors, and I used in few occasions because the government plan was the only thing that I truly needed. I was never in a position where I had to get a big surgery or cancer treatment, so in that sense I cannot express my experience. On the contrary, in the United States, I have been rejected access to any health insurance due to pre-existing conditions because if not rejected, the premiums are too high to afford even in my nurse's salary. The situation of being "scared to get sick because of no money" would be unthinkable in most developed countries. Although I still think the United States have the best treatments and professionals on the world, we still have a long journey in our path to health care equality.
LikeLikeby Cristhian Ysea April 16, 2012 at 7:11 pm
Open dialogue between medical professionals like physicians, nurses, dietitians, physical/ occupational/ speech therapists, etc. is a integral part of deciding the best approach for maintaining or improving best practices. I believe that through a mutual respect we will benefit immensely by obtaining a holistic approach to patient care. The naivety to think that our methods are best is sophomoric at best and should really be avoided to be considered professional. Time and time again we find that a multi-disciplinary approach to healthcare provides a "whole" look at the patient and their needs. Evidence based research has proven that this must be attempted to give the patient the best outcome. Unfortunately not all of our colleagues have prescribed to this approach and allow their egos to interfere with collegial interaction. This "ego" based approach must be abolished in order to provide optimal patient care. Further more, just because a system is beneficial in one location, does not mean it will beneficial in all systems. For optimal care we should continually assess and reassess our "best practice" approaches. After this we can integrate the new system into the educational curriculum and renewal criteria for all health care professionals.
LikeLikeby Tyler April 16, 2012 at 1:22 pm
I think it is time the American healthcare system starts learning from the Australian healthcare system not the other way around. The American healthcare system which is mainly provided by private insurance is very expensive and not everyone can afford it. Furthermore, if the patient has a preexisting condition no insurance company in the American healthcare system will cover them and the expense of paying for anything reference the preexisting condition will send the patient into bankruptcy and break any chance of recovering financially. It is sad that a powerful and great country like America cannot take care of their public and provide a descent and impartial healthcare system for everyone. The Australian healthcare system seems to provide their public with a fair and just healthcare system. I know this is what all nurses around the world want for their patients care to be the primary focus before the concerned of cost. I hope the American healthcare system can open their minds and learn from other countries like Australia and succeed in this important area and provide a better healthcare for its public.
LikeLikeby Caridad Young April 16, 2012 at 12:52 pm
Hearing about Australia's health care system and the setup of its health insurances gives me hope that one day the United States health care system could help the American people instead of the insurance companies. Should Australia be more like the U.S. in its healthcare? Definitely not for it is the U.S. who should be more like the Australians. The Australians don't let people suffer just because they don't have insurance or that their insurance won't cover the cost. Here in America we have amazing nurses who provide great quality of care to those in need, unfortunately those most in need of our services are the ones who cannot afford it.
LikeLikeby lynda willoughby April 15, 2012 at 8:21 pm
The Affordable Care Act became law on March 23, 2010 with the hope that all Americans, especially the ones over 18 and under 65 low-to-middle income, can get health insurance. United States spends in health care more than any other country in the world but we have the worse system. Accordingly with Young & Devoe (2012), the main issue to overcome it is to reduce costs without compromising quality, as we know, health care for more than 70% of people under 65 is through private insurance, we can do as Switzerland, they are not allowed to profit from primary health insurance products, only for supplemental policies. The impact of primary care in reduction of cost is never overstated. Reasonable expending, we cannot provide all possible services to all people is another main issue, as example Medicare just approve a prostate cancer drug (Provenge), each treatment cost $93,000 to increase life expectancy by 4 months, this is an example how things contribute to increase health care costs.
LikeLikeby Asuncion Rosario Wojcicki April 15, 2012 at 12:13 pm
The United States is one of the high income country over the world. Most people wants to come here to indulge in its many opportunities which it has many to offer. Little did we know that the US that can offer us liberty and opportunity can also turn its back on us in the time of sickness. If we do not have high end insurance such as private insurance count your blessing and prepare for a funeral if you enter a private hospital for treatment. One will be quickly ship to a public institution for care. How many indigent patient and cost can these public institutions absorbed. Bills and workers need to be paid and we all know that the US still has not recovered from its financial problems. Again, prepare for a death wish of untreated individuals. Many Citizens died or suffered because of the inability to pay for care. It is the patient bill of right, a law that no institutions can refuse patient if they are unable to pay. But, is that the practice or it is just false advertisement. Why are many health institutions are still refusing patients… Many citizens cannot afford insurance because of the high price. Here in the States Healthcare is a profit and a business not merely to save life. Anyone can loose their job, health insurance and everything that they have worked for. Try to apply for governmental benefits you will die before it is approved. I have seen the cost of patient medical bills has been brought to the bedside, how so inhumane and unethical. The roller coaster that patients under go to become qualify for governmental help such as medicaid and more is debilitating. I would say to every Australians count your blessing and be proud of the healthcare system there.It is more efficient and cost effective compare to manage care system here. We the healthcare professionals including Md and all gave oath when we were licensed to do the greatest good, save life and veracity in our career. I think we all need to do that when we all start a job with accountability behind that signature line.
I strongly believe that healthcare should be a right and not a privilege. Universal healthcare save life.
LikeLikeby Ann Ann April 2, 2012 at 10:03 pm
It is really unfortunate that we Americans do not have a health care system such as the one in Australia. I had the opportunity to talk to many Australians about their perceptions of their health care system. Their experiences dealing with their health care system always reflect satisfaction. Australians enjoy the benefits of a universal health care system founded by taxes. The Australian health care system covers all Australian residents despite of preexisting health conditions. I remember being speechless after hearing the story of an Australian man who needed heart surgery. He was air-lifted from his local hospital to a Sydney's hospital where he had open heart surgery. This man had to pay nothing, since all the health care services he received were cover by the government. At the same time, telling Australians about how the American health care system works has left them with a feeling of disbelieve. They have told me how they cannot imagine how a country such as America can offer their people with such poor health care services.
The reality is that the American health care system needs to improve. It is hard to believe that a country America, a world power, has not yet implemented universal health care. Anyone could agree that universal health care is a viable option for America just by looking at the results from the universal health care implementation in European countries, Japan, and Australia. Many Americans are very hopeful about the upcoming health care reform. The health care reform offers Americans hope that, at last, they would not have to live with a constant fear of getting sick. I believe that we Americans need to support the implementation of the health care reform by letting our legislators that we want changes on our health care system. Americans need to become active participants on the implementation of the health care reform in order for it to become a reality. Much will not change if we just wait for changes and not become involved in making those changes happen.
LikeLikeby Maria Villota March 8, 2012 at 1:05 pm
[…] for that. So thank you. A fair number of the comments were on posts from previous months, such as this post comparing U.S. and Australian health care systems. Is somebody by chance teaching a nursing course […]
LikeLikeby From the Blogs: Negotiating Medicare, Nurses Doing Research, Reader Comments « Off the Charts November 29, 2011 at 1:27 pm
It is unfortunate that the health care system in the United States is not universal even though the U.S. has the highest growth domestic product (GDP) in the world. On the other hand, Australia, which is ranked number thirteen in GDP, is able to provide universal health care to all Australian citizens since 1975.
Nowadays there are more than 49 million U.S. citizens that lack health insurance, restricting their access to health care services. Moreover, it is not uncommon to find individuals with high debt or who have to file for bankruptcy as result of expensive health care bills due to the lack of health insurance. It is necessary that the U.S. government promote changes in the health care reform in order to provide health care coverage to all Americans. However, it is important to realize that changes not only within the government but also within the health insurance companies are needed in the fight for achieving equal access to health care services.
I truly believe that the U.S. health care system has a long as well as difficult journey toward the goal of achieving equal access to health care for all citizens. Working together for a better future in which all citizens are provided equal access to healthcare should be the common inspiration among nurses, doctors, and the rest of the health care team members.
LikeLikeby Johanna Orostiga November 28, 2011 at 7:32 pm
Healthcare system in America is one of the most advanced in the World. America right now, is the only Super Power in the world, yet, this most advanced in every aspect Country have millions of citizens without healthcare insurance. What is wrong here, why are we fighting the new proposed health insurance that will provide healthcare coverage for all Americans? Most part of Europe practiced Universal Healthcare, including Australia and has succeeded. According to this article, nurses in Australia raved about the healthcare system of their country. I strongly believe that if we leave politics out of healthcare, we will able to see that, we are all Americans, we all make this country great, and that, if America did not exist, we would have to create one in order to have a country as great as this. Please support the new healthcare reform and lets take care of each other.
LikeLikeby Emem Umoh November 23, 2011 at 10:58 am
This is a very interesting post. Like many countries around the world, Australia provides adequate public health care coverage to its citizens through taxation. The United States should definitely be able to provide some form of universal healthcare coverage to its citizens. Instead, millions of Americans are without health insurance and as a result there is a major deficit in overall care for our citizens. This article brings up an interesting point however. No matter the financial circumstances in different nations, overall nursing care has always been the foundation of health care. We as nurses must always provide the best care we possibly can, and exhaust all the resources at our disposal.
LikeLikeby Nick Morales November 22, 2011 at 10:04 pm
It's funny how the US, being one of the most powerful country in the world, cannot afford to provide its citizens with some form of health care coverage. After learning about the health care system in other countries around the world, I've come to the conclusion that Americans are getting the short end of the stick. A person may work multiple jobs to make ends meet but if he/she does not match the qualifications for insurance or does not have enough money to pay a monthly fee for coverage then he/she will be uninsured. I do not understand how every other developed country can afford to cover their citizens but the US can't. Individuals in Australia, Spain, Japan, and France do not have to worry about being ill. They know if their child gets injured, if they need surgery, or if a simple vaccine is required they can get it without having to worry about how they will pay for it. I feel that the American system puts too much focus on fast food, money, and entertainment and not enough focus on a decent health care system.
LikeLikeby gretel vigo November 21, 2011 at 10:16 pm
Globalization has changed and transformed many aspects of our lives including health care. It is interesting to note how health care delivery systems vary worldwide. Furthermore what this article brings out is a very important fact that no matter how the health care system varies nurses are truly the common denominator. The glue of health care, the base, and nurses no matter what the tools, supplies or equipment available are always able to provide care. It is interesting to note that, you are always taught to work with what you got and no matter what you have you can always provide care. So no matter that situation or setting care is universal and can be given no matter what. If you have insurance or if your "covered" by any plans or by the government care is and will always be there.
LikeLikeby Joel Hernandez November 21, 2011 at 7:00 pm
I strongly believe that health care should be offered to each individual on the world. I like better the health care system in Australia than in the United Stated because all individuals in Australia have health insurance and look for medical help when they are sick. In Australia, all individuals have health insurance that is pay through their taxes; also individuals can have private insurance to support the public insurance. When Australians get sick, they immediately look for help because they are not afraid to be in debt due to medical bills. On the other hand in the United Stated, even though it is a high income country, it is one of the countries where the largest number of people are without medical insurance and when people look for health care is because they are really sick, they never go when the first symptoms start due to no access to health insurance and the debts that will be billed to them later. Usually insurance companies reject any person with preexistent condition. You need to get insurance to be paid monthly through a full time job, or pay out of pocket. The only people that are eligible for Medicaid are kids, old people and pregnant woman that have low income and Medicare are for people over 65 year old. The cost of health care is very high due to the develop of new technology equipment
LikeLikeby Eleonor Saavedra November 21, 2011 at 6:01 pm
I enjoyed this article very much, It is sad to know that our country which has enjoyed great economy and yet has not been able to achieve a health care system that will be fair and even to every citizen. Even other countries that don't have as much money or resources like Spain and Canada. It will be interesting to see what will become of the new health care reform, hopefully this will provide a more reasonable access to health care and that health care quality won't change. As an oncology nurse i was also surprised and impressed that even chemotherapy, which is a costly treatment is not delayed for those who don't have private insurance in Australia. And i also feel happy to hear that i am a part a large group of professionals that have a common goal.
LikeLikeby Gema Gonzalez November 21, 2011 at 4:25 pm
Reading posts like this makes me feel both sad and relieved. Sad because it proves how the arguments of those in favor of keeping the status quo of our health care system in the states seem to be out of touch with the reality that is present in the world. I feel relieved to know that a functional, universal health coverage with good quality of care is possible and works in many countries. I think that right are those people who claim we should bring the subject of universal health coverage discussion in a different dimension, moral rather than fiscal. As long as the discussion keeps circling around the numbers universal coverage has a chance of being rejected as "unsustainable", whereas it is hard to argue against a fundamental right of a person to have a chance for a healthy, productive life. After all, how can one be supporting the system which makes people with cancer bankrupt because of mounting medical bills, or let a person suffer and ultimately die because his condition will not allow an insurance company make a profit. Is it not the ultimate question? Profitable vs non-profitable patients. Recently, I have learned about the fact that the bill was passed by the US congress prohibiting re-importation of the drugs from Canada to the United States. The same drugs that we consume here in states, only cheaper. This shows the level of determination and money involved in the "business" of keeping things the way they are. I think that the first step of approaching the issue would be to prohibit any lobbying for health care industry. Then, maybe we have a chance of coming to some solution with the universal health care in our country.
LikeLikeby Rufat Dasayev November 21, 2011 at 3:22 pm
I agree with many of you, health care should be a right. We all should have easy access to healthcare. The United States is well known as developed country but based on health care insurance available in this country I think we are still behind. Many of us are just waiting to see if health care reform will bring any changes. There are people without any health care insurance and who can't get the treatment needed to prevent many serious problems like high blood pressure, diabetes, and many other heart conditions. Many citizens wait till the problem become worse to seek medical treatment because they are uninsured. The United States needs to give a serious about the health care insurance and adopt a better health care program for health of the citizens.
LikeLikeby Navreet Shergill November 21, 2011 at 12:36 pm
I have been living in this country for the last twenty years. The health system here do not have universal healthcare. It is mostly employer-subsidized healthcare, private insurance and medicare covering people's health expense. There are millions of people in this country with no health insurance coverage. While Australia's system is not too different from the mixture of employer and public based funding found here in the US, Australia's system provides universal coverage with a mixed public-private funding system. According to the WHO it provides some of the best care in the world as assessed by preventable mortality and healthiness of the population,. Their total costs are dramatically less than that of the US system and most people in general are happy with the system. On the opposite hand, here in the US the cost of health care rises more and more everyday. I think there are some sectors of the economy more interested in their own positive and profitable returns than in the well being of the population. As a result we are living in a sytem that is destroying itself.
by fabio tamayo
LikeLikeby fabio tamayo November 21, 2011 at 12:07 pm
Very interesting post. It's true that the United States is one of the only high income countries that doesn't have universal health care coverage. I find it so sad that the United States is considered the land of opportunities and wealth, but the government can't afford to help keep it's citizens alive. While private insurance companies are used as a back-up plan in Australia, it's used as the only plan in the United States. And if you were unfortunate enough to be sick before applying for private insurance, you won't even be able to get that. This is due to the fact that health insurance companies are often regulated by people who wish to stay rich and don't want to have to pay any amount of money. It's all about profit for them. In fact, I read recently that some insurance companies are charging women more for health insurance because they are more likely to have check-ups than men. So, women are being punished for spending a little money every year to monitor their health and prevent horrible diseases from developing, which will safe the insurance companies thousands in the long run. Does that seem right to you? The United States needs to get with the program, and regulate the health care system for the good of its citizens, the way Australia does.
LikeLikeby Alison Robert November 21, 2011 at 11:45 am
I am a firm believer that access to health care should be a right. There is no reason why people should have to wait to get sicker and sicker because they are afraid of what it will cost them. It is incredible to think that such a rich country can't come up with a feasible health system for their citizens. How is it that so many other countries are able to provide health care in a way that their people don't end up in debt for the rest of their lives. We should have the same options as Australia and many of the other countries that provide similar health care coverage. Money is spent on many things in this country, and health care should be one of the primary things that we should worry about.
LikeLikeby Catherine November 21, 2011 at 11:20 am
After reading this article it made realize that drug addicts are at increased risks for major problems besides their addictions. Drug addicts often put themselves in situations that exposes them to diseases just to get access to drugs. In my opinion, this program that the nurses came up with is very helpful. Recovering from addiction is a very long and costly process; therefore, if nurses can prevent making this process more difficult through prevention of secondary diseases this will help addicts recover faster. In the long run I think this program will beneficial for addicts that are at the greatest risk for secondary infections like homeless addicts.
LikeLikeby Emilio Perez November 21, 2011 at 11:09 am
It is obscene and insulting that this country has the funds to posses the largest and most sophisticated army in the world but cannot put together a decent universal health care program to protect its citizens. It seems to me that if we start all these wars to "protect our freedom" perhaps we should start by protecting the health of our citizens. It all comes down to the priorities of a nation and unfortunately our number one priority is profit. Just like companies profit from selling cars and TVs, the big health insurance companies are allowed by our government to suffer from human misery and suffering. How can you blame them when bribes are basically legalized in Congress? Lobbying anyone? The system its rotten at its core.
LikeLikeby Liudmila Latushkina November 20, 2011 at 11:07 pm
While the Australian healthcare system is not perfect, I believe that it is still better than the American healthcare system and that it should not become like the American healthcare system. According to the Australian nurses, citizens from Australia have access to public healthcare that is available to all the citizens. Those that can afford better healthcare can choose to buy backup private insurance for better service. Hopefully, the Healthcare Reform will be able to cover all of the American citizens. Optimistically, cost would not be the primary factor that decides the level of care a person gets since the Healthcare reform should focus mainly on quality and less on cost.
LikeLikeby Diana Escalante November 20, 2011 at 6:48 pm
I strongly believe that an access to health care is the right, not the possibility to all of the people who legally live in the country. America spends more money on health care than any other country in the world and has almost 50 million people without health insurance. Obviously there is something wrong with that and the health care system has to be revised. In Australia, everybody has medical coverage and it is normal. American citizens who pay taxes and do not have health insurance is considered nonsense in my opinion. Debates about Health Care Reform and a possible decline in quality with the Universal healthcare can be reasonable, but I think that there should always be medical insurance available; even if it does not guarantee an access to the best hospitals, which is better than not to have any insurance at all. The reform has to bring to the Americans an opportunity to have an access to helath care and look toward the future with confidence.
LikeLikeby Olga Ratmansky November 20, 2011 at 10:31 am
It's interesting to compare the health care system of Australia to the United States because they are pretty much the opposite of each other. I agree with what you said about how the main focus of a health care system should be the quality of care for patients. Achieving quality of care is the most challenging part of a health care system because of the need to devise a way to pay for it all. Here in the United States, health care is largely privatized, while in Australia, it is funded by the government sector with an "add on" privatized option. I think the Australian health care system is a good example of how it should be run because it seems to have everyone covered (for the most part). Prioritizing needs such as a cancer patient versus a hip replacement patient helps to determine which patient should be treated faster. When the American health care reform goes into effect in the next couple of years, it will be easier to compare the two systems because they will be more alike.
LikeLikeby David De La Hoz November 19, 2011 at 4:37 pm
The Australian health care system shows us that the possibility of health care access void of exceeding cost and debt is not a hopeless cause. I believe that it is beneficial for the Australian citizens to have a health care system where health care costs are secondary to patient care. It is interesting to see how, in contrast to the U.S., the lack of private health insurance is not an issue when it comes to hospital care in Australia. Therefore, the Australian health care system's imitation of the U.S. health care system is not necessary. On the contrary, it is an American's hope that health care in the U.S. could be somewhat similar to that of Australia. Hopefully, with change, nurses and other medical professionals in the U.S. will be to exercise their care to all patients without the restriction of cost.
LikeLikeby Karla Cortez November 19, 2011 at 12:41 pm
The fact that the U.S. does not provide health care to its citizens is puzzling since other countries are able to do it. The U.S. is more focused on cost than the actual well being of its citizens. Australia would be making a mistake in changing their system to be similar to the U.S. Australians have access to public health coverage, which is better than the system the U.S. has. I did not have any health insurance until I became an RN. Before I became an RN, I had to go to the ER for treatment of kidney stones. My bill ended up being thousands of dollars for the few hours that I spent in the ER. If I had been in Australia, this would not have been the case. Hopefully, the Health Care Reform will be successful in providing coverage to those that need it most.
LikeLikeby Dilma Gutierrez November 19, 2011 at 10:05 am
Healthcare is a very touchy subject in the united states to some. I feel that health is something as human beings we cannot control what ailments we come across, healthcare should be availible to all Americans. We should have healthcare availible to everyone who lives in the USA, there shouldn't be sanctions on what we can and not have when it comes to health. I have family who live in Paris, who have free healthcare, which is provided thru their taxes, and its a much big difference. My uncle doesn't have to worry about receiving the health he needs, and sometimes that is a BIG stress reliever. So yes i agree with the one nurse who says wanting to become like the americans in that aspect is a mistake. I love the country i live in but i do feel like i should be given certain things if I pay for it and go to work everyday, and most importantly pay my TAXES.
LikeLikeby salti003 November 19, 2011 at 9:50 am
I look forward to the day where our health care system here in the U.S. will change and provide comprehensive care for all. I keep hearing about different health care systems, such as Australian, where care is based on need and not an insurance policy. I think in the U.S., insurance providers and the whole financial aspect of health care have way too much control and power over health care. Health care should not focus on costs; this is ludicrous. I think that is you are in need of medical help because of illness or injury, you should have access without the added stress of medical expenses.
LikeLikeby Pamela Zapatel November 18, 2011 at 11:33 am
The Australian health care system should not be changed to imitate that of the American health care system. The citizens of Australia have access to public health options that are available to all Australian with the option to buy back up insurance if wanted unlike the United States. Australians are able to get care regardless of having insurance or not. The number one issue in health care reform should be quality of patient care and not the cost. If the Australian healthcare system was to change to the United States healthcare system many of the citizens would be without care.
LikeLikeby Natalie Lachman November 16, 2011 at 7:02 pm
I believe Australia's system seems to be working quite well for its citizens. The fact that a patient can start treatment immediately after being diagnosed regardless of insurance issues, is something we do not see much here in the United States. Therefore, even as an American I must agree that the Australian health care system should not attempt to imitate that of the U.S. Patient care should always be the number one priority yet unfortunately, we see that money plays a significant role in health care and people are indeed turned away if they are not able to meet certain requirements. It is moving to see, however, that the common denominator across the globe really is the nurse's desire to provide quality patient care, whether it is in the U.S or in Australia.
LikeLikeby Natalie Navas November 12, 2011 at 7:05 pm
I know that it is sad to say that we are the only developed country that does not provide an universal health care access. I do not know much about the Australian health care system. However, by just offering public access to citizens makes better that the U.S health care system. I was also uninsured until I became a registered nurse and got a full time position. I spent 6 years without going to the doctor, having migraines and high blood pressure. It is also true that the costs of health care are increasing. I believe that high level of technology and pharmaceutical companies have a great part on that. I hope that the Health Care Reform brings positive changes to the health care system in our country. It is time for the US to provide its citizen with a human right, access to health care. We as nurses should always be patient's advocates. We should always deliver the best quality of care and collaborate with the rest of the health care team (PT/OT, social worker, MD,) and the family.
LikeLikeby Rafael Alonso November 2, 2011 at 8:28 pm
[…] Travel nursing on steroids-At AJN a post about Nursing down under-mate! […]
LikeLikeby Best In Nurse Blogs: Dog Invasion Edition! | The Millionaire Nurse Blog October 30, 2011 at 10:19 am
It seems that many other industrialized nations apart from Australia, such as Japan and Spain, provide for a public health option along with a private insurance component. It will be interesting to see how Health Care Reform in the United States will alter the accessibility of care to the estimated 49.9 million uninsured Americans, according to figures released by the the US Census Bureau in 2010. A common concern to this reform by Republicans appears to be the quality of care. Many bloggers on this site, including the author of the previous post, seem to indicate that "care was comparable between public and private" options. Let us hope the same holds true for the US come 2014 when Health Care Reform goes into affect. I, for one, am glad to see a national health care policy which takes the country one step further to accepting health care as a fundamental human right and not a free-market commodity.
LikeLikeby Charles Solla October 29, 2011 at 10:50 am
Interesting post. This sounds quite like the health care system in Spain, where I lived for 10 years. There was a public option, paid for by taxes, and people could purchase private insurance if they desired. Unlike in the U.S., where purchasing insurance is usually expensive and sometimes not feasible, my private insurance in Spain cost me around $60.00 per month, with copays of around $5.00. Care was comparable between public and private–often physicians who worked in the public domain also had a private practice. I never had to wait on the feared long waiting lists people assume are in societies with public health care. I once was denied coverage of a test (a cardiac ultrasound) because of a pre-existing condition (mitral valve prolapse). However, whereas this test cost me over $1,000 in the U.S., in Spain I had to pay $100. All of the care I was given over the 10 years I lived in Spain, including surgery and a four-day hospital stay, was excellent. Sadly, I can't say the same about my experience here, back home.
LikeLikeby Amy M. Collins, AJN associate editor October 27, 2011 at 4:15 pm


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Current Time: 2/6/2016 5:36:48 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) (1:36 AM GMT)Last Updated: 2013-04-02T19:03:46Z on 4/2/2013 12:03:46 PM Pacific Daylight Time (7:03 PM GMT) Rendered From:UnknownCoordinates are in the WGS84 datum


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Beverly Zoey Mellow Yellow Sampler 01 by tatehemlockWatch
©2012-2016 tatehemlock
The always incredible and cute as can be Beverly Zoey. "Mellow Yellow" series, 45 pics total.
Available as a complete set 1600x1067 for only 900 points!! Buy it from me direct for only $6!! Note me for details!!
Available as a complete set 1600x1067 for only 900 points!! Buy it from me direct for only $6!! Note me for details!!
I've always had a thing for this look.
Totally cute
She's cute! I'm curious. You mention that this was her first implied topless shoot. Do you mean this is as much as she's ever showed or that this was her first try at something "more artistic". I'm always intrigued by the process girls go through when deciding to model (and deciding how much to show). Thanks so much.
Well this was her first time doing anything where she was topless even if nothing is showing. We have about 10 sets like this, all unseen. All super cute.
that is 2 girls in one
yeah she is my absolute favorite model that you have used. wife material right there lol
ing it!
Is she the make up artis that usually works with you? I´m in love.
Well she started out as one of my models but I have been trying to make her my full time MUA as well!!
Someday i will have the time and the money to travel and do that zombie photoshoot. I just got my 10 years visa to the States.
ahhhh more of one of my absolute favorites :3 i love the yellowon her. & her owl tattoo is crazy awesome.


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Writing a memoir can be very challenging. Besides all that goes with the writing process of getting your story down on paper, there are also challenges such as where to start your story, how to tell your story in an engaging way, and which writing techniques to use so you can express yourself effectively.
Though her memory doesn't cooperate any longer, I persist. "Mom -- do I use walnuts or almonds, red delicious or honey crisp apples? Should I use red wine or white?" It is Passover; time to make haroset, a sweet mixture of apples, nuts, and spices to recognize the hardships of slavery and the sweetness of freedom.
I've dissected these stories, written and rewritten them, sat with them, prayed with and for them. I've thought about how it's going to affect my family, my mother more than anyone. These are her secrets I'm revealing, her shame, that silence that has eaten through us like gangrene. This silence killed my brother.


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If you like chocolate pie then I probably ruined your day because this pie takes the cake!
Have made this pie several times - love it. It is hard to go back to a regular chocolate pie after eating this one. Very rich - small pieces are good. Very addicting.


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The Mora were the largest tactical military unit of the Spartan army. Mora is also a type of 19th-century Swedish longcase clock, as well as a Costa Rican drink consisting of blackberry juice, water and sugar.
But most importantly MORA is our theater company.
MORA is the amalgamation of our names Laura Hooper and Mark O'Neil, a husband and wife* writing and performing partnership from London, UK. (*We're not really married). We tried a few different name combinations but LORK rhymes with DORK and MARKA sounds like a permanent ink pen. We also liked the way it sounds if you say it in an Italian accent…. we like-a theater and would like more-a of it.
"It was such fun to see my house transformed into a performance space, or rather, I should say, Sylvie Cranshaw's kitchen. Sylvie cooked us up some delicious hors d'oeuvres, and then served it up with drama and humor! So glad to have had the MORA experience in our home." Kitchen host, Brooklyn, November 2011
"Crumbs! Sylvie is an extraordinary cook, hostess and raconteur. She welcomes her guests into her home, her kitchen and her heart." Audience member, Brooklyn, November 2011
"Hooper hugs tight to her character's emotional contours" – New York Daily News
Laura Hooper trained at East 15 Acting School in London, UK and HB Studio in New York.
Laura is an actress, writer, director and producer who has worked internationally in Theatre, Film and TV for eons. Theatrical acting highlights include; playing Sylvie in "CRUMBLE" in the most wonderful homes, Aphrodite in "Cupid & Psyche" at The Barrow Group, The Queen in "The Persians" a tour of Amphitheaters in Cyprus, Olivia in "Twelfth Night" in London parks, originating roles in "Supermarket Shakespeare" in supermarkets across London, Natasha in "Three Sisters" at The Theatre Museum, Covent Garden and devising a show for Miramax. Laura wrote, produced & starred in her debut film "Cat On The Matt" which was recently screened at festivals in NYC. Laura's latest radio play "Yakim, The Spiritual Advisor" is now ready and available for your ears on Geste podcast; to listen, click here. For more information please visit – www.laurahooper.info
Like most people, Mark O'Neil began making stuff up during childhood. His theater pieces, short stories, screenplays and comedic monologues have been showcased in various venues in the US and UK. CRUMBLE was selected for performance at the inaugural International Samuel Beckett Festival, in Northern Ireland in 2012. His play Invisible Glue was a winner at the Short Play NYC Festival in 2014. His most recent production was Ready Yet To Take For The Heart To Stand, which was performed at the BritBits Festival in NYC in April 2015.
Previously their joint work has been created as part of the innovative UK based theater collective Teatro Vivo. But with Mark and Laura both now based in New York, they continue to work together as MORA.
Brooke is new to The Crumble team as of 2015, but she was first introduced to Sylvie Cranshaw and her tasty nibbles at a kitchen on Wall Street in 2011!
Brooke is a Pueblo, Colorado native who can withstand very spicy things and once memorized so many digits of Pi she won a t-shirt. Brooke studied business and theatre at The University of Denver and spent a semester at The Globe Theatre and The Guildhall School for Music and Drama in London in 2008. In Denver, Brooke was an active member of "Write to Act" and also performed in many main stage roles at DU – her favorite being Leona in Small Craft Warnings. She was also cast as a piece of fruit several times – once as an apple in a commercial and once as a bunch of grapes for a new soda event. To escape the type casting, she relocated to NYC in 2010. In New York, Brooke toured with Orpheus Descending to Mississippi where they performed in churches throughout the state. Brooke studied at The People's Improv Theater and is a co-founder of Loyalty Program, a long-form indie team performing weekly throughout the city. Brooke was recently the production coordinator for the "Bad Kitty: The Series" music video. She is currently co-producing a mini web series of short, improvised scenes about the strange subtleties of relationships.
For more detail about the show, visit the ABOUT section


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Garbage Pickles
Total Time
Prep 15 mins
Cook 0 mins
Pickled radishes. Once you have these, you will crave them. We call them garbage pickles because of the smell; but you won't care how they smell once you taste them -and they don't taste like radishes! I made these on a lark one day and always keep some in the fridge. My kids love them and they are a great low-calorie snack too.
Ingredients Nutrition
- fresh red radish, by the bag
- 5 -10 garlic cloves
Grandma Jennings all-purpose pickle brine
- 1 quart water, 1/4 C. vinegar, 1/4 C. pickling salt
- Trim both ends of each radish and cut them into quarters. (If you leave the radishes whole you won't be able to pack the radishes in tightly and there will be too much room for brine in the jar. The pickles would then be far too salty).
- Pack the radishes as tightly as you can into a jar, spacing the garlic cloves evenly around. I recommend using a small-mouth pint jar, but a bag of radishes is not made to fit exactly into a jar of a particular size, so use your judgement on how many bags of radishes and jars you want to use. Cover the radishes with brine and cap the jar. Turn it upside down and place it in the fridge for 3 weeks to pickle. You will notice that very quickly the vinegar starts to break down the red skin on the radishes, making the pickle juice and the radishes each uniformly pink.
- About that brine recipe. I make mine with a gallon of water, 1 cup salt and 1 cup vinegar as my Grandma taught me, but have cut the measurements down for folks who may not use so much. I keep this brine in a gallon jar and whenever I have something around that might be good to pickle (green tomatoes, string-beans, baby carrots, cauliflower ect.) I just grab a jar, pack it with veggies and seasoning (garlic, dill, curry, italian seasonings etc.) and pour on the brine. I always have some very good pickles in my fridge! Makes a good gift as well, if you seal them.
Most Helpful
Easy to make and delicious. Stinky yes, but the taste and crunch of the radish pickles is well worth the fragrance.
I'm a huge fan of just about anything pickled, so I knew I would like these. I had some fresh dill to use up, so I distributed a bunch of the sprigs with the radishes and garlic. They're salty, but I didn't find them to be any more salty than other homemade pickles I've tasted. I didn't find that they had a garbage-y smell to them, either -- just smelled like homemade garlic dill pickles to me! I'm sure I'll be making these again, since I typically have radishes floating around in the crisper drawer. Thanks for posting! Made for PAC Spring 2014
I have a couple of jars of these pickling in the fridge as I type this. They've been in there for a week now. I'm very excited to try them!!! I will update the rating and review once they're done!


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There's an ingredient in much of the food you eat and products you use that you may never notice but could be produced by forced or child labor. Palm oil is ubiquitous in our food and cosmetics and its production is rapidly expanding around the world as a biofuel. Last week, the US Department of Labor released a new report revealing that palm oil from Indonesia may be tainted by child labor and palm oil from Malaysia may be produced by forced labor.
Workers in Southeast Asia are often lured to work on palm oil plantations with promises of a better life, but often find unsafe conditions, long hours, low or no pay and many are even held in work camps under tight security.
Forced and child labor in palm oil production is unacceptable, but US corporations like Cargill purchase much of Malaysia and Indonesia's palm oil which makes them very influential over conditions on these plantations.
While over 45 companies have signed on to the Rainforest Action Network's pledge to source responsible palm oil (or eliminate its use altogether), Cargill lags behind in ensuring that it is not sourcing products produced by forced or child labor. The company has made some progress recently on its own plantations in preparation for an audit, but Cargill still lacks appropriate labor rights safeguards for the palm oil it trades, refines and sells from various plantations throughout Indonesia and Malaysia.
Photo credit: Rainforest Action Network
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