NewzIntel.com

Category: Health

  • MIL-OSI Global: Alzheimer’s drug approved in the UK, but it won’t be available on the NHS – here’s why

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Rahul Sidhu, PhD Candidate, Neuroscience, University of Sheffield

    Donanemab is delivered intravenously to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Studio Romantic/ Shutterstock

    The UK’s drugs regulator – the MHRA – has approved the Alzheimer’s drug donanemab, but it won’t be available on the NHS.

    The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice), which determines what treatments are available on the NHS, decided not to recommend donanemab for NHS use. This is because of its cost, potential side-effects and what some consider insufficient benefits.

    While Nice’s decision is disappointing for a lot of people (about 70,000 people people in England would have qualified to receive the drug), it’s important to know why the decision was made.

    Slowing decline

    A key characteristic of Alzheimer’s disease is the presence of amyloid plaques. These are sticky proteins that clump together and destroy brain cells (neurons), resulting in Alzheimer’s.

    Donanemab is a monoclonal antibody – a lab-made protein that targets and binds to amyloid to help eliminate it. This treatment is administered by an intravenous infusion, so the drug is delivered directly into the bloodstream. Each session lasts about 30 minutes and is needed every four weeks.

    In a clinical trial, donanemab was shown to be reasonably successful. The trial compared participants with early Alzheimer’s disease taking donanemab against those taking a placebo.

    Donanemab slowed the decline in memory and thinking by as much as 35% in people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. This is the equivalent of reducing the disease’s progression by four to seven months. Participants taking donanemab experienced a 40% slower decline in their ability to perform daily tasks, including managing finances, driving and enjoying hobbies.

    Donanemab helps eliminate amyloid from the brain.
    Signal Scientific Visuals/ Shutterstock

    While these results are promising, it’s important to note that the clinical trial had some limitations.

    The trial lasted only 18 months, so it remains unclear how donanemab’s effects will play out long-term for those using it. Future studies will be needed to explore the long-term effects.

    Although the trial had a large sample size of 1,736 participants with early Alzheimer’s disease, 90% of the participants were white. More diversity in clinical trials is needed to ensure that donanemab is effective for people of all races and ethnic backgrounds. Unfortunately, this lack of diversity is a common issue in medical research.

    But the major drawback with donanemab was its side-effects. About 80% of the side-effects participants experienced were either mild or participants showed no symptoms at all and side-effects were only picked up in further tests.

    However, 15% of participants had a serious side-effect. This included brain swelling or small brain bleeds known as amyloid-related imaging abnormalities. This may initially cause mild symptoms such as headaches, confusion or dizziness. But without constant monitoring, these conditions can become detrimental to health.

    There were three deaths believed to be linked to this brain swelling among the 853 participants who were administered the drug.

    Another concern in using the drug relates to the existing difficulties with diagnosis. To even qualify for the treatment, patients must be in the very early stages of Alzheimer’s disease – and already have confirmed high amyloid levels through a PET scan or lumbar puncture.

    In the UK, only 2% of dementia patients receive these gold-standard diagnoses. More than one-third of people living with dementia don’t receive a diagnosis at all.

    Improved and more accessible diagnostic methods would ensure more patients are eligible to receive the drug at the optimal time.

    But the key reason donanemab isn’t available through the NHS is its cost. The treatment is estimated to cost around £25,000 a year per patient, based on the US cost. This does not include the expense of brain scans to monitor its effects.

    Additionally, it requires monthly infusions at the hospital and careful monitoring for side-effects, which may seem excessive considering the treatment’s modest benefits.

    The future for Alzheimer’s treatments

    Nice’s decision on donanemab closely mirrors the decision they made about lecanemab in August 2024. This was the first ever Alzheimer’s slowing drug approved by the MHRA, and, like donanemab, is only available via private healthcare. The reasons both drugs were rejected by the Nice and the NHS are similar – with costs and side-effects being the main concerns.

    While people with dementia and their families may feel let down by this decision, the fact that these new therapies can slow the disease, even slightly, offers hope.

    Nice will be reassessing donanemab in 2025. There are also over 100 drugs currently in clinical trials for treating Alzheimer’s. Hopefully, one of these will prove to be as effective, if not more effective, as donanemab but with fewer side-effects and at a lower cost.

    Still, it’s a remarkable step that there are two drugs licensed in the UK for treating Alzheimer’s. Although there’s still a way to go before an NHS treatment is readily available.

    Rahul Sidhu does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Alzheimer’s drug approved in the UK, but it won’t be available on the NHS – here’s why – https://theconversation.com/alzheimers-drug-approved-in-the-uk-but-it-wont-be-available-on-the-nhs-heres-why-242127

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Scabies outbreak in UK universities – what you need to know

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Michael Head, Senior Research Fellow in Global Health, University of Southampton

    Sarcoptes scabiei Arshindi/Shutterstock

    Scabies is an itchy skin infection that sees outbreaks across the world.

    It is caused by mites, similar to but much smaller than head lice. These mites burrow under the skin, lay eggs and reproduce, causing an immune response which generates the unpleasant itching associated with the disease.

    Outbreaks often occur in institutional settings, such as residential care homes for the elderly. In October 2024, outbreaks around UK university settings were reported in the media.

    The incubation period for scabies is typically four to six weeks. This is the time between being infected – a mite getting onto and then under the skin – and a patient showing symptoms such as the classic unpleasant itch.

    So, the cases reported in October 2024 would have been infected mid to late September, around the time of student arrival at their universities around the country.

    Given this long incubation period, it can be difficult to prevent and control outbreaks. The condition can also be difficult to diagnose because the clinical presentation on the skin can be tricky to spot – for example, between the fingers.

    Transmission is typically by prolonged skin-to-skin contact and sharing contiminated bedding, towels, clothes and soft furnishings where the mites can wait and crawl onto the next person who uses them. Guidance recommends washing bedding, clothes and towels at high temperatures to kill the mites, or if that is not possible then to seal the items inside plastic bags for three to four days.

    Stigma and under-reporting

    Data from The Royal College of General Practitioners’ report on communicable and respiratory disease in England for October 2024 indicates that the reported case numbers of scabies are higher than the seasonal average.

    These official figures are also likely to be conservative. Like many skin infections, scabies is a stigmatised disease and so under-reporting or late reporting are common.

    There is a perception that scabies is a disease “of the unwashed”. This is likely to be incorrect, with the burrowing of the scabies mites meaning they simply cannot be washed away by bathing. Also, scabies can appear in areas covered by clothes, including in the groin or on the buttocks – another reason for stigma and under-reporting. This means the data we have is likely to be much lower than the true number of cases.

    Treatment and prevention

    Treatment is usually a skin lotion called permethrin or sometimes another cream called malathion. In order to be effective, these creams have to be rubbed all over the body, not just at the site of infection.

    Ivermectin, taken orally, is also extremely effective at curing scabies and can be prescribed to control outbreaks. Public information campaigns can help with alerting the general public and describing the possible symptoms.

    The World Health Organization defines a range of diseases as Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs). As the name indicates, the majority of these are mostly found in tropical countries. These include skin infections such as leprosy and mosquito-transmitted diseases such as dengue. However, scabies is unique among NTDs in being common in more temperate environments such as the UK. The mites thrive in almost all climates, and an infection does not go away unless correctly diagnosed and treated.

    In September 2023, there were scabies outbreaks and treatment shortages in the UK. It is uncertain whether there are shortages in the October 2024 outbreak. Regardless, anyone with a persistent itch or known contact with a scabies case should report this to a healthcare worker for follow up.

    While scabies does not kill many people, it is a thoroughly unpleasant infection that causes significant impact on quality of life. Awareness and early reporting can help to bring outbreaks to a rapid conclusion.

    Michael Head has previously received funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Research England and the UK Department for International Development, and currently receives funding from the UK Medical Research Foundation.

    – ref. Scabies outbreak in UK universities – what you need to know – https://theconversation.com/scabies-outbreak-in-uk-universities-what-you-need-to-know-242237

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: October 28th, 2024 Heinrich, Luján, Leger Fernández Welcome Over $1 Million to Break Down Barriers to Home Ownership for New Mexicans Living With HIV/AIDS

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    SANTA FE, N.M. — U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.) welcomed $1,345,637 for the Santa Fe Housing Trust to provide more pathways to first-time home ownership to 2,050 New Mexicans living with HIV/AIDS. 

    This grant is funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS (HOPWA) Program. The HOPWA program is the only federal program dedicated to the housing needs of people living with HIV/AIDS and their families.

    During the domestic HIV/AIDS crisis, individuals surviving with HIV/AIDS faced barriers to employment and incurred expensive medical costs. This trend continues and disproportionately impact low-income individuals who are struggling to afford stable housing even before diagnosis and treatment. The financial and health vulnerabilities associated with HIV/AIDS often result in housing instability and homelessness. Research shows individuals living with HIV/AIDS who have a stable place to live have more positive health outcomes and spend less time in hospitals or emergency rooms.

    “We should be making it easier for all New Mexicans to become homeowners. Full stop,”said Heinrich. “This funding will break down barriers for individuals living with HIV/AIDS to become first-time home buyers, ensuring more folks have a safe and secure place to call home. I’ll keep fighting to increase our housing stock, bring down the cost of housing, and ensure all people in our state have a shot at achieving the dream of home ownership.”

    “No New Mexican should ever worry about whether they will have a safe place to sleep at night,” said Luján. “I’m proud to welcome more than $1.3 million in federal funding that will help allow New Mexicans living with HIV/AIDS to secure permanent, stable housing so they can focus on their health. I will continue to fight to expand housing options for all New Mexicans.”

    “Home is more than a roof you live under, it provides safety and stability,” said Leger Fernández. “As we work to tackle the home affordability crisis across the country, we must use all tools available to help. We know one of the biggest hurdles homebuyers face is saving up for a downpayment. This $1.3 million for the Santa Fe Housing Trust will provide funding for important services like down payment reduction assistance for first-time home buyers living with HIV/AIDS. I’ll continue to fight for funding that helps our communities through legislation like my Home of Your Own Act which would also help first time homebuyers with down payment assistance.”

    Background

    Heinrich, Luján, and Leger Fernández are tireless advocates for lowering housing costs, increasing housing supply, and expanding housing affordability and access for families in New Mexico.

    Through Heinrich’s role as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, particularly through his seat as Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies, Heinrich has worked to deliver millions of dollars to New Mexico for renters and home buyers.

    Most recently, Heinrich secured Committee support for the following investments in Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) Appropriations:

    In Heinrich’s Fiscal Year 2024 Agriculture Appropriations Bill, he secured $1.6 billion for rental assistance, an increase of $120 million over Fiscal Year 2023. Heinrich’s 2024 Appropriations Bill also provided for a pilot program that decoupled rental assistance from Multifamily Direct Loans, preventing thousands of low-income families from losing rental assistance.

    Additionally, Heinrich secured $1,100,000 through the Fiscal Year 2024 Appropriations process for Santa Fe Habitat for Humanity to develop land into a mixed-income development focused on building 25 to 30 housing units for working families. In total, Heinrich has secured $14,500,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) for northern New Mexico to address the housing shortage.

    In May, Heinrich, Luján, Leger Fernández, and the N.M. Congressional Delegation welcomed $11.8 million from the U.S. Department of Housing to support public housing authorities build, renovate, and modernize public housing across New Mexico.

    In February, Heinrich, Luján, Leger Fernández, and the N.M. Congressional Delegation welcomed more than $16 million in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Continuum of Care program to support New Mexico projects that provide housing assistance and supportive services to people experiencing homelessness.

    Luján has also been a champion of expanding access to affordable housing for all New Mexicans. Earlier this year, Luján partnered with Heinrich to push for more funding for Tribal housing programs.

    Through Luján’s work on the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, Luján has also fought to secure critical support for individuals living with HIV/AIDS.

    Luján introduced the bipartisan Ryan White PrEP Availability Act, bipartisan legislation to increase flexibility for Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program clinics, which provide care and treatment for individuals living with HIV/AIDS.

    In the Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23) Appropriations package, Luján secured $300,000 to advance the goals of his Oral Health Literacy Act and support the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program.

    Heinrich and Luján have also introduced a number of bills to tackle New Mexico’s housing crisis.

    Last month, Heinrich introduced the New Homes Tax Credit Act, legislation that would provide tax credits to incentivize new investments and additional resources for single-family home construction and renovations for working families. The bill would address the lack of housing inventory for individuals and families whose incomes are up to 120 percent of the area median income (AMI), particularly including in areas where middle-income families have historically been priced out. In Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and Las Cruces, New Mexico, for example, this added housing inventory would benefit families with annual incomes of up to $103,680, $109,800, and $78,960, respectively.

    At a recent roundtable conversation with local educators in Albuquerque, Heinrich announced his Educator Down Payment Assistance Act, legislation designed to help more educators and school staff in New Mexico purchase a home and keep teachers in the communities where they teach.  

    In March, Heinrich co-led the First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit Act, legislation to support homeownership among lower- and middle-income Americans by establishing a refundable tax credit worth up to 10 percent of a home’s purchase price – up to a maximum of $15,000 – for first-time homebuyers. 

    Heinrich also cosponsored the Housing for All Act, comprehensive legislation to expand access to affordable housing in New Mexico and supporting those experiencing homelessness. The bill would invest in proven solutions and provide a historic level of federal funding for strategic, existing programs to keep people housed and reduce homelessness, as well as for innovative, locally developed solutions to help vulnerable populations experiencing homelessness.

    Last year, Heinrich introduced the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act, which would help build over 14,000 new affordable homes in New Mexico over the next decade, generating over $2.5 billion in wages and business income. The legislation would support the financing of more affordable housing by expanding and strengthening the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, our country’s most successful affordable housing program.    

    Heinrich also introduced the Delivering Essential Protection, Opportunity, and Security for Tenants (DEPOSIT) Act, which would help an estimated 12,000 New Mexican families access rental housing through the Housing Choice Voucher Program to pay security deposits and get into a rental home. Luján is also a cosponsor of this bill.

    In January, as Chairman of the U.S. Joint Economic Committee (JEC), Heinrich released a report highlighting policy approaches to increasing housing supply in America. Heinrich also chaired a JEC hearing on the report. His full opening statement can be found here.

    Luján introduced the bipartisan Homes for Every Local Protector, Educator, and Responder Act of 2023 or the HELPER Act of 2023, legislation that would establish a new home loan program under the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) to make homeownership more accessible to teachers and first responders.

    Luján also introduced the bipartisan Reforming Disaster Recovery Act, legislation that would establish a community disaster assistance fund for housing.

    Additionally, Luján introduced bipartisan legislation to expand Native American housing programs that builds on successful Native American housing programs at the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) authorized by the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA).

    Luján and Heinrich introduced the bipartisan Native American Rural Homeownership Improvement Act of 2021, legislation that would expand an existing U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) pilot program and deploy loans to eligible Native borrowers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Physician Charged in Scheme to Illegally Sell Cancer Drugs

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Department of Justice
    U.S. Attorney’s Office
    Eastern District of Michigan

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    Friday, October 25, 2024

    Detroit – A Royal Oak physician was charged in an Indictment for his role in a multi-million-dollar scheme to illegally sell and divert expensive prescription cancer drugs, United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison announced.

    Joining Ison in the announcement were Special Agent in Charge Mario M. Pinto, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Special Agent in Charge Angie M. Salazar, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and Special Agent in Charge Ronne Malham, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

    Charged in the Indictment is Dr. Naveed Aslam, age 51, of West Bloomfield, Michigan.

    The charges against Dr. Aslam include one count of conspiracy to illegally sell or trade prescription drugs and 10 counts of illegally selling or trading prescription drugs.

    According to the Indictment, by early 2019, and continuing through August 2023, Dr. Aslam, a licensed physician, worked with others to buy and sell expensive cancer drugs for profit and with the intent to defraud and mislead. The other individuals Dr. Aslam worked with identified customers interested in buying prescription cancer drugs, and they communicated with Dr. Aslam about what cancer drugs were requested. Dr. Aslam used his access to certain cancer drugs through his medical practice, Somerset Hematology and Oncology, P.C., to order and purchase the cancer drugs from his supplier. He then sold the cancer drugs to and through the other individuals’ company to the eventual customer. During this scheme, Dr. Aslam acquired and sold more than $17 million in prescription cancer drugs, and personally profited more than $2.5 million.

    “The safety and integrity of our country’s prescription drug supply lines – particularly for cancer drugs – is an important part of our health care system,” stated U.S. Attorney Ison. “As alleged, Dr. Aslam used his role as a physician to violate that integrity and divert prescription cancer drugs away from treating patients. My office is committed to prosecuting medical professionals who seek to profit, rather than protect, our health care system.”

    “Our agency is dedicated to ensuring that medical providers follow laws designed to protect both the integrity and solvency of Federal health care programs, as well as the beneficiaries they serve,” said Mario M. Pinto, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG will continue to work closely with our Federal law enforcement partners to thoroughly investigate allegations of fraud.”

    “Having the authority to prescribe medication is a privilege that comes with a profound responsibility. Physicians must safeguard against drug diversion,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “Dr. Aslam’s alleged participation in this scheme not only allowed him to profit unlawfully from the sale of cancer drugs, but it also posed a serious threat by potentially placing these medications into the wrong hands. This breach of trust is inexcusable, especially considering the critical nature of the drugs involved. The FBI is unwavering in its commitment to hold medical professionals accountable for exploiting their positions for personal gain and endangering community safety.”

    “Introducing diverted prescription drugs into the supply chain and selling them to unsuspecting consumers undermines the FDA safeguards designed to protect the public,” said Ronne Malham, Special Agent in Charge, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, Chicago Field Office‎. “We remain committed to bringing to justice those who place their personal gain over the health of American consumers.”

    “A physician’s ethical responsibility is to their patients, not to selling cancer drugs under the table for profit,” said HSI Detroit Special Agent in Charge Angie M. Salazar. “We will protect patients against fraud, especially from those in positions of public trust who choose greed over public safety.”

    An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Lievense. Assistant United States Attorney Jessica A. Nathan of the Money Laundering & Asset Recovery Unit is handling related forfeiture matters. The investigation is being conducted jointly by the FBI, HHS-OIG, HSI, and the FDA.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dynarex Corporation Expands Recall to Include Additional Products Due to Possible Health Risk

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    FDA Publish Date:
    Product Type:
    Food & Beverages
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description

    Potential Metal or Chemical Contaminant

    Company Name:
    Dynarex Corporation
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)

    dynacare

    Product Description:

    Product Description

    Baby Powder

    Company Announcement

    Montvale, NJ, October 28, 2024 — Dynarex Corporation is expanding the recall initiated on September 19, 2024, to include an additional 373 cases of item number 4875, Dynacare Baby Powder, 14 oz., as well as 647 cases of item number 4874, Dynacare Baby Powder, 4 oz., because they have the potential to be contaminated with asbestos. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that is often found near talc, an ingredient in many cosmetic products. Asbestos, however, is a known carcinogen and its health risks are well-documented. If talc mining sites are not carefully chosen or if proper steps are not taken to adequately purify the talc ore, it may contain asbestos.

    The product was sent to distributors on or after January 18, 2024, by direct delivery in the following states: AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, NE, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI and sold online on Amazon (Amazon.com).

    Both the 4875 and 4874 Baby Powder products are packaged in plastic bottles, 24 bottles to a case for the 14 oz. and 48 to a case for the 4 oz., with lot/batch numbers located on the bottom of the bottle and on each case (see images below).

    There have been no illnesses or adverse events reported to date.

    The recall was the result of a routine sampling program by the FDA, which revealed that the finished products contained asbestos. Upon further investigation, we have identified additional lots of products that may contain asbestos due to using the same bulk talc material. The company has ceased the distribution of the product as an investigation is proceeding to determine what caused the contamination of the talc.

    Consumers who have purchased Dynacare Baby Powder (see products/lots below) should discontinue use immediately and return it for a full refund.

    Batch No.

    Mfg. Dt.

    Exp. Dt.

    Pack Size
    B 048 31.10.2023 30.10.2026 Baby Powder 14 oz. (397 g)
    B 049 01.11.2023 31.10.2026 Baby Powder 14 oz. (397 g)
    B 050 02.11.2023 01.11.2026 Baby Powder 14 oz. (397 g)
    B 051 29.12.2023 28.12.2026 Baby Powder 14 oz. (397 g)
    B 052 30.12.2023 29.12.2026 Baby Powder 14 oz. (397 g)
    B 053 01.01.2024 31.12.2026 Baby Powder 4 oz. (113 g)
    B 054 03.01.2024 02.01.2027 Baby Powder 4 oz. (113 g)
    B 055 04.01.2024 03.01.2027 Baby Powder 4 oz. (113 g)
    B 056 05.01.2024 04.01.2027 Baby Powder 4 oz. (113 g)
    B 057 06.01.2024 05.01.2027 Baby Powder 4 oz. (113 g)
    B 058 08.01.2024 07.01.2027 Baby Powder 4 oz. (113 g)
    B 059 31.01.2024 30.01.2027 Baby Powder 4 oz. (113 g)
    B 060 01.02.2024 31.01.2027 Baby Powder 4 oz. (113 g)

    Please contact Dynarex Corporation at 888-396-2739 or 845-365-8200 during business hours of 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM Eastern Standard Time, or via email at recall@dynarex.com if you have any questions or need information on how to return the product or receive a full refund.

    Health care professionals and consumers are encouraged to report any adverse events to FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program by:

    Link to Original Press Release

    Company Contact Information

    Product Photos

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Heinrich, Luján, Leger Fernández Welcome Over $1 Million to Break Down Barriers to Home Ownership for New Mexicans Living With HIV/AIDS

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján

    SANTA FE, N.M. — U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.) welcomed $1,345,637 for the Santa Fe Housing Trust to provide more pathways to first-time home ownership to 2,050 New Mexicans living with HIV/AIDS.  

    This grant is funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS (HOPWA) Program. The HOPWA program is the only federal program dedicated to the housing needs of people living with HIV/AIDS and their families. 

    During the domestic HIV/AIDS crisis, individuals surviving with HIV/AIDS faced barriers to employment and incurred expensive medical costs. This trend continues and disproportionately impact low-income individuals who are struggling to afford stable housing even before diagnosis and treatment. The financial and health vulnerabilities associated with HIV/AIDS often result in housing instability and homelessness. Research shows individuals living with HIV/AIDS who have a stable place to live have more positive health outcomes and spend less time in hospitals or emergency rooms. 

    “We should be making it easier for all New Mexicans to become homeowners. Full stop,” said Heinrich. “This funding will break down barriers for individuals living with HIV/AIDS to become first-time home buyers, ensuring more folks have a safe and secure place to call home. I’ll keep fighting to increase our housing stock, bring down the cost of housing, and ensure all people in our state have a shot at achieving the dream of home ownership.” 

    “No New Mexican should ever worry about whether they will have a safe place to sleep at night,” said Luján. “I’m proud to welcome more than $1.3 million in federal funding that will help allow New Mexicans living with HIV/AIDS to secure permanent, stable housing so they can focus on their health. I will continue to fight to expand housing options for all New Mexicans.” 

    “Home is more than a roof you live under, it provides safety and stability,” said Leger Fernández. “As we work to tackle the home affordability crisis across the country, we must use all tools available to help. We know one of the biggest hurdles homebuyers face is saving up for a downpayment. This $1.3 million for the Santa Fe Housing Trust will provide funding for important services like down payment reduction assistance for first-time home buyers living with HIV/AIDS. I’ll continue to fight for funding that helps our communities through legislation like my Home of Your Own Act which would also help first time homebuyers with down payment assistance.” 

    Background 

    Heinrich, Luján, and Leger Fernández are tireless advocates for lowering housing costs, increasing housing supply, and expanding housing affordability and access for families in New Mexico. 

    Through Heinrich’s role as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, particularly through his seat as Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies, Heinrich has worked to deliver millions of dollars to New Mexico for renters and home buyers. 

    Most recently, Heinrich secured Committee support for the following investments in Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) Appropriations: 

    In Heinrich’s Fiscal Year 2024 Agriculture Appropriations Bill, he secured $1.6 billion for rental assistance, an increase of $120 million over Fiscal Year 2023. Heinrich’s 2024 Appropriations Bill also provided for a pilot program that decoupled rental assistance from Multifamily Direct Loans, preventing thousands of low-income families from losing rental assistance. 

    Additionally, Heinrich secured $1,100,000 through the Fiscal Year 2024 Appropriations process for Santa Fe Habitat for Humanity to develop land into a mixed-income development focused on building 25 to 30 housing units for working families. In total, Heinrich has secured $14,500,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) for northern New Mexico to address the housing shortage. 

    In May, Heinrich, Luján, Leger Fernández, and the N.M. Congressional Delegation welcomed $11.8 million from the U.S. Department of Housing to support public housing authorities build, renovate, and modernize public housing across New Mexico. 

    In February, Heinrich, Luján, Leger Fernández, and the N.M. Congressional Delegation welcomed more than $16 million in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Continuum of Care program to support New Mexico projects that provide housing assistance and supportive services to people experiencing homelessness. 

    Luján has also been a champion of expanding access to affordable housing for all New Mexicans. Earlier this year, Luján partnered with Heinrich to push for more funding for Tribal housing programs. 

    Through Luján’s work on the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, Luján has also fought to secure critical support for individuals living with HIV/AIDS. 

    Luján introduced the bipartisan Ryan White PrEP Availability Act, bipartisan legislation to increase flexibility for Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program clinics, which provide care and treatment for individuals living with HIV/AIDS. 

    In the Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23) Appropriations package, Luján secured $300,000 to advance the goals of his Oral Health Literacy Act and support the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program. 

    Heinrich and Luján have also introduced a number of bills to tackle New Mexico’s housing crisis. 

    Last month, Heinrich introduced the New Homes Tax Credit Act, legislation that would provide tax credits to incentivize new investments and additional resources for single-family home construction and renovations for working families. The bill would address the lack of housing inventory for individuals and families whose incomes are up to 120 percent of the area median income (AMI), particularly including in areas where middle-income families have historically been priced out. In Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and Las Cruces, New Mexico, for example, this added housing inventory would benefit families with annual incomes of up to $103,680, $109,800, and $78,960, respectively. 

    At a recent roundtable conversation with local educators in Albuquerque, Heinrich announced his Educator Down Payment Assistance Act, legislation designed to help more educators and school staff in New Mexico purchase a home and keep teachers in the communities where they teach.   

    In March, Heinrich co-led the First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit Act, legislation to support homeownership among lower- and middle-income Americans by establishing a refundable tax credit worth up to 10 percent of a home’s purchase price – up to a maximum of $15,000 – for first-time homebuyers.  

    Heinrich also cosponsored the Housing for All Act, comprehensive legislation to expand access to affordable housing in New Mexico and supporting those experiencing homelessness. The bill would invest in proven solutions and provide a historic level of federal funding for strategic, existing programs to keep people housed and reduce homelessness, as well as for innovative, locally developed solutions to help vulnerable populations experiencing homelessness. 

    Last year, Heinrich introduced the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act, which would help build over 14,000 new affordable homes in New Mexico over the next decade, generating over $2.5 billion in wages and business income. The legislation would support the financing of more affordable housing by expanding and strengthening the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, our country’s most successful affordable housing program.     

    Heinrich also introduced the Delivering Essential Protection, Opportunity, and Security for Tenants (DEPOSIT) Act, which would help an estimated 12,000 New Mexican families access rental housing through the Housing Choice Voucher Program to pay security deposits and get into a rental home. Luján is also a cosponsor of this bill. 

    In January, as Chairman of the U.S. Joint Economic Committee (JEC), Heinrich released a report highlighting policy approaches to increasing housing supply in America. Heinrich also chaired a JEC hearing on the report. His full opening statement can be found here. 

    Luján introduced the bipartisan Homes for Every Local Protector, Educator, and Responder Act of 2023 or the HELPER Act of 2023, legislation that would establish a new home loan program under the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) to make homeownership more accessible to teachers and first responders. 

    Luján also introduced the bipartisan Reforming Disaster Recovery Act, legislation that would establish a community disaster assistance fund for housing. 

    Additionally, Luján introduced bipartisan legislation to expand Native American housing programs that builds on successful Native American housing programs at the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) authorized by the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA). 

    Luján and Heinrich introduced the bipartisan Native American Rural Homeownership Improvement Act of 2021, legislation that would expand an existing U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) pilot program and deploy loans to eligible Native borrowers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement from Minister of Health and the Minister of Justice and the Attorney General of Canada on advance requests for medical assistance in dying

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Statement

    October 28, 2024 | Ottawa, Ontario | Health Canada

    Medical assistance in dying (MAID) is a deeply personal and complex topic.

    Canada’s federal framework governing MAID has been carefully designed with stringent safeguards to affirm and protect the inherent and equal value and dignity of every person’s life. Given the significant life-or-death implications, the Government of Canada has always chosen a cautious approach to expanding MAID eligibility. This approach emphasizes the importance of open dialogue with provinces and territories, medical professionals, expert stakeholders and Canadians.

    MAID is a matter of shared jurisdiction with provinces and territories. As a health service, MAID is administered by provincial and territorial health systems as part of end-of-life or complex care. However, since MAID involves ending a person’s life, it includes important legal considerations under the Criminal Code that is the jurisdiction of the Government of Canada.

    The Government of Canada acknowledges the work the Government of Quebec has conducted on the implementation of advance requests and their interest in having the Criminal Code amended so that advance requests can be permitted for residents of Quebec. As the Criminal Code applies uniformly across Canada and does not permit the provision of MAID based on an advance request, providing MAID pursuant to an advance request remains an offence under the Criminal Code.

    On the complex and serious topic of advance requests, it is important to hear the full range of perspectives. That is why the Government of Canada will launch a national conversation in November 2024 on the topic of advance requests. The consultations will consist of discussions with all provinces and territories, roundtables and online surveys, and will be completed by the end of January 2025. A report on the key themes and findings will be published in Spring 2025. As a first step in conducting this national conversation, the Minister of Health has written to his provincial and territorial counterparts on this important issue.

    We are launching a national conversation and will not be initiating a challenge of Quebec’s Bill 11. We recognize the importance of collaboration between levels of government to ensure that the needs of patients and healthcare professionals are met.

    This national conversation is another step to ensure that the framework for MAID in Canada reflects the evolving needs of Canadians, protects those who may be vulnerable, and supports the autonomy and freedom of choice of Canadians.

    Related Links

    Medical assistance in dying: National conversation on advance requests

    Contact

    Matthew Kronberg
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Honourable Mark Holland
    Minister of Health
    343-552-5654

    Chantalle Aubertin
    Deputy Director, Communications
    Office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General
    613-992-6568
    Chantalle.Aubertin@justice.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Health Canada
    613-957-2983
    media@hc-sc.gc.ca

    Department of Justice Canada
    613-957-4207
    media@justice.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Latest news – SANT mission to ECDC – Subcommittee on Public Health

    Source: European Parliament

    ECDC © ECDC2017

    SANT subcommittee will travel to Stockholm from 28 to 29 October to visit the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). The delegation will be composed of three Members: Elena NEVADO DEL CAMPO (EPP, Spain), András Tivadar KULJA (EPP, Hungary), Marta TEMIDO (S&D, Portugal).

    The aim of this mission is to gather information about the current and planned activities of the Agency. In addition, participating SANT Members would like to obtain first-hand insight on measures to prevent and control communicable diseases, in particular what concerns the MPox crisis. Members would also have the opportunity to discuss best practices for managing health crises, and understand how epidemiological data is collected and used to influence public health policies in the EU.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Health insurance status of students abroad in the EU – E-001551/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission notes that regulation (EC) No 883/2004[1], lays down rules to determine the legislation applicable to a person in a cross-border situation, such as students studying abroad .

    According to Article 11(3)(a) and (e), an employed person is subject to the legislation of the Member State in which they pursue their activity, while inactive persons, such as students, are subject to the legislation of the place of residence.

    When studying abroad in the EU, students generally remain covered by the legislation of the country of origin and access necessary health treatments in the country where they study with the European Health Insurance Card.

    However, when a student takes up work abroad, the social security legislation applicable to them changes as well. The Commission is thus aware of the possible changes in their social security coverage.

    Since the EU law in this field does not harmonise, but only coordinates national social security legislation, moving from one Member State to another can have consequences for an insured person in terms of entitlements and contributions.

    The Commission does not consider this to be an obstacle to the mobility of students as one of the main principles is the mandatory application of a single national legislation.

    This is to avoid that a person exercising their right to free movement would be left with no coverage or would have to pay contributions in more than one Member State .

    As for traineeships, the Council Recommendation on a Quality Framework for Traineeships[2] encourages traineeship providers to clarify if they provide health and accident insurance. This has been further strengthened in the Commission’s proposal reinforcing the Quality Framework for Traineeships[3].

    • [1] Regulation (EC) No 883/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 29 April 2004 on the coordination of social security systems (Text with relevance for the EEA and for Switzerland), OJ L 166, 30.4.2004, p. 1-123 — https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2004/883/oj
    • [2] Council recommendation of 10 March 2014 on a Quality Framework for Traineeships, 2014/C 88/01, 27 March 2014 — https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32014H0327(01)&from=IT
    • [3] Proposal for a Council recommendation on a reinforced Quality Framework for Traineeships, COM/2024/133 final, 20 March 2024 — https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=COM%3A2024%3A133%3AFIN

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Where’s the harm in that? How we think about workplace hazards hampers the application of health and safety law

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Louise Deacon, PhD Graduand, Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa – Massey University

    Current thinking about workplace problems, mental health and the law is hindering New Zealand’s ability to prevent job-related mental harm.

    The inclusion of mental health in New Zealand’s Health and Safety at Work Act (HSWA) is meant to protect workers from the risk of harm arising from exposure to workplace psychosocial hazards.

    These arise from the way work is designed, managed and led, and the context in which work is carried out. They can cause psychological, social or physical harm. Common examples include long work hours, role ambiguity, emotional demands, job insecurity and bullying.

    Our research examined how the most senior company decision-makers understood their legal duties as they relate to mental health.

    Under the HSWA, these officers – including company directors and chief executives – must exercise due diligence to ensure their company is compliant with the law.

    But most of the 24 research participants, who were officers of large companies, expressed uncertainty and ambiguity about the meaning of “mental health” within the HSWA.

    The harms of work

    Exposure to psychosocial hazards is commonly reported by New Zealand workers.

    Those working in jobs such as policing, nursing and teaching, for example, report high levels of emotional demands.

    Māori and Pacific workers, workers in retail, and workers in their 30s report higher than average levels of job insecurity.

    The harm caused by exposure to these these hazards typically presents as psychological. But it has also been strongly linked to cardiovascular disease and musculoskeletal disorders.

    Lack of expertise

    Managerial decisions relating to how work is designed, organised and managed influence how people experience work and the psychosocial hazards they may face.

    Psychosocial risk often stems from operational and performance decisions relating to things like intensification, staffing, production and market demands.

    In many organisations, these decisions are made in the boardroom – far removed from where the core work of the business is carried out.

    Many of the research participants felt the uncertainty about the meaning of mental health within the HSWA arose from a lack of expertise in New Zealand’s health and safety workforce, a lack of clear regulatory guidance, and the complexity of psychosocial risk.

    As one participant said:

    There’s no boundaries, there’s no playbook, there’s no formula they can follow, it’s hard and it’s complex and it’s different for each person, and there’s nobody who you can point to and go, “They’ve absolutely nailed it”.

    But our analysis also found that uncertainty and ambiguity arose from other factors.

    These included a belief that the risk of exposure was often rooted in the personal characteristics and behaviours of workers rather than in their work. There was also a focus on fixing harm rather than preventing it and the conflation of psychosocial risks with other risks.

    Unfortunately, these beliefs also limited the application of the HSWA.

    Instead of addressing work-related risk, senior managers became distracted by workers’ personal lives and focused on reactive management strategies rather than preventative ones. They adopted an approach to risk management that emphasised “risks to the organisation” rather than “risks to workers”.

    Bullying in the workplace

    These limits were most clearly evident when participants described their oversight of organisational responses to bullying and harassment.

    Many of the causes of bullying and harassment lie in the way work is organised, managed and led.

    However, in detailing their performance of due diligence, participants described ensuring such risks were managed by recounting conflict reporting and resolution systems, support for victims, and organisational policy stressing “zero tolerance” for poor workplace behaviour.

    While these responses might form part of a comprehensive approach to bullying and harassment (although in practice these could be unjust, ineffective or even counterproductive), on their own they may also be inadequate when the problem is considered under work health and safety law.

    The risk-based, preventative nature of the HSWA requires that harm is prevented through understanding, anticipating and intervening in the contributing factors within the work environment.

    Research has firmly established that bullying is more likely in organisations where there are unreasonable workloads, high job demands and job insecurity, along with laissez-faire or “hands off” management, or management strategies that relentlessly require workers do more with less.

    Consideration of these risks may be relevant in the current context of job insecurity and job cuts across the public sector which could result in increased demands on remaining workers.

    The link between hazards and harm

    Risk assessment must focus on what can, and ought to be, known about the relationship between these psychosocial hazards and potential harm. Risk management must aim to eliminate or minimise risks as far as reasonably practicable.

    Importantly, acting on risk does not require evidence of harm. Responding to harm once it has happened is contrary to the overall purpose of the HSWA.

    But addressing deeper organisational factors is much more difficult and uncomfortable for those in charge.

    Preventing bullying and harassment requires considering how decisions about the design, organisation and management of work may contribute to the risk of harm.

    Prevention can therefore explicitly question the decisions and practices of company directors, executives and managers – not traditionally considered within the remit of work health and safety.

    As a result, bullying and harassment tend to be framed as an interpersonal problem between workers and their managers. This is less challenging than bringing the decisions relating to the management and governance of a company into question.

    The preventative focus is then placed on correcting and improving behaviour rather than managing or changing the conditions of work which give rise to bullying and harassment.

    Louise Deacon received a grant from Health and Safety Association of New Zealand and a Massey University Doctoral Scholarship for this research.

    Bevan Catley has recieved funding in the past from The Health Research Council of New Zealand and WorkSafe New Zealand concerning work-related psychosocial risks.

    David Tappin has received research funding in the past from The Health Research Council of New Zealand and WorkSafe New Zealand concerning work-related psychosocial risks.

    – ref. Where’s the harm in that? How we think about workplace hazards hampers the application of health and safety law – https://theconversation.com/wheres-the-harm-in-that-how-we-think-about-workplace-hazards-hampers-the-application-of-health-and-safety-law-240794

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Workshop for drafting Ayurveda Process Handbook concludes at National Commission for Indian System of Medicine

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 28 OCT 2024 8:57PM by PIB Delhi

    Medical Assessment & Rating Board, Indian Systems of Medicine (MARB-ISM), National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM) conducted a workshop for drafting Ayurveda Process Handbook at NCISM office on 24th, 25th and 26th October 2024.

    The Medical Assessment & Rating Board is entrusted with the responsibility of determining the process of assessment of ASU institutions as per NCISM Act 2020. The task of preparing the Ayurveda Process Handbook commenced officially on 5th September 2024 by Vaidya Jayant Deopujari, Chairman, NCISM. It was followed by a series of virtual discussions in the preparatory phase.

     

    Three days workshop commenced on 24th with a formal inaugural session. Total 32 resource persons from various Ayurveda institutions were invited to take part in the workshop.

    Dr. B.S. Prasad, President BOA delivered the inaugural address. He highlighted the prominent features of Minimum Essential Standards, Assessment & Rating for Ayurveda Undergraduate institutions & teaching hospitals regulation 2024 and briefed on the necessity of preparing process handbook. He also appreciated the initiative taken by Medical Assessment & Rating board in this regard.

     

    Dr. Raghuram Bhat, President, MARB-ISM, gave the presidential address. He enlightened the audience about the gross outline of Ayurveda Process handbook and how it will be beneficial for all the stakeholders. He also acknowledged the contribution of resource persons during the pre-workshop phase.

     

    The workshop concluded with a valedictory function chaired by the President MARB-ISM. The expert members shared their experience at the workshop.

    ****

    MV/AKS

    (Release ID: 2069028) Visitor Counter : 50

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Announces Nationwide Volunteering Initiative ‘This Diwali with MY BHARAT’ to Mark MY Bharat Portal’s First Anniversary

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Announces Nationwide Volunteering Initiative ‘This Diwali with MY BHARAT’ to Mark MY Bharat Portal’s First Anniversary

    Over 2 Lakh Volunteers across 500 Locations in India to Participate in this Initiative

    Posted On: 28 OCT 2024 6:51PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, has unveiled a nationwide volunteering initiative titled ‘This Diwali with MY Bharat – Ye Diwali MY Bharat Ke Saath’, set to take place from 27th to 30th October 2024. This special event, aimed at celebrating the first anniversary of the MY Bharat Portal, will see the participation of over 2 lakh volunteers across 500 locations in India, fostering a spirit of social service and volunteerism during the festive season.

    Through this initiative, volunteers will work together to enhance urban amenities such as roadways, markets, and basic healthcare facilities, ensuring that citizens enjoy a more vibrant and seamless festival experience. The effort aims to strengthen the bond between local communities and volunteers, showcasing the power of community-oriented action. Activities planned under this mega event include:

    • Market Cleaning: In collaboration with the All India Traders Association, volunteers will clean identified marketplaces.
    • Hospital Volunteering: Volunteers will assist in enhancing access to health services for patients.
    • Traffic Volunteering: Assisting Traffic Police in managing traffic congestion at critical chokepoints.

    The event will see collaboration from various stakeholders, including the Department of Youth Affairs, the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), registered MY Bharat volunteers, Youth Clubs, NSS units, Market Associations, Traffic Police departments, and selected hospitals.

    Department of Youth Affairs invites the youth across the country to actively participate by registering on the MY Bharat Portal at www.mybharat.gov.in and engaging in activities planned during the festive season. Participants are encouraged to share their photos and videos of the activities on the Mega Event Page, using the hashtag #DiwaliWithMYBharat.

    ******

    Himanshu Pathak

    (Release ID: 2068973) Visitor Counter : 83

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bonamici, Wyden, Merkley, Salinas, Hoyle, Dexter, Bynum Call for Providence, Oregon Nurses Association to Reach Agreement

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    January 24, 2025
    WASHINGTON DC – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Janelle Bynum (OR-05), and Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley sent a letter urging Providence and the Oregon Nurses Association to reach agreement on new employment contracts for doctors, certified nurse midwives, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, and clinical staff. The health care workers have been on strike since January 10th.
    The full text of the letter can be found here and below.
    Dear Mr. Wexler and Ms. Tan Piazza,
    We write today to express our firm expectation that Providence will engage in good faith bargaining as it seeks to settle contracts with nearly 5,000 doctors, certified nurse midwives, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, and clinical staff in the Providence system across the state of Oregon.
    These dedicated doctors, nurses, and clinical staff have been on strike since January 10th.
    We have spoken directly with these caregivers and with Providence leadership. Our conversations underscored the urgency of this situation and have led us to continue to call on you to act with haste to come to an agreement that values the health care providers who care for patients in the Providence system.
    Nurses, doctors, and other Oregonians on the strike lines told us they are striking because they don’t have the resources to provide the quality of care that Oregonians deserve and expect. They’ve told us that the strike is not only for competitive wages and benefits, but also for safer staffing levels.
    We know that the costs of this strike are significant. Providers are going without pay because they understand that working conditions need to change. Providence is paying significant amounts of money to hire and train replacement staff while the strike continues. The last few years have not been easy for anyone in health care, and the health care system continues to face a variety of challenges.
    The Providence system is a critical part of Oregon’s health care infrastructure. It’s past time to agree on a fair contract–for the nurses, doctors, and other staff who care for Oregonians, and for all of those who receive care at Providence.
    Providence and ONA both share the goal of providing excellent patient care and experiences. We appreciate that justice is among Providence’s core values and that Providence strives to “foster a culture that promotes unity and reconciliation,” “care wisely for our people, our resources and our earth,” and “stand in solidarity with the most vulnerable, working to remove the causes of oppression and promoting justice for all.”
    We call on both parties to bring this commitment to justice to the bargaining table, to actively engage in bargaining all contracts, and to offer and negotiate proposals that meaningfully address caregiver concerns about wages, working conditions, and staffing.
    On behalf of the millions of Oregonians we represent, it is our sincere hope that ONA and Providence negotiate contracts in good faith as swiftly as possible. Thank you for your attention to this important matter and for your consideration of our request.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Advocate: Republicans’ unprecedented anti-LGBTQ+ attacks highlighted in new HRC Congressional Scorecard

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for California – Laphonza Butler
    By Trudy Ring 
    The Human Rights Campaign’s Congressional Scorecard for the 118th Congress is out, and it reflects both “an unprecedented onslaught of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation” and resistance from pro-equality lawmakers, HRC President Kelley Robinson says.
    The scorecard, released Monday, covers the 2023-2024 session of Congress and rates every U.S. senator and representative on their support for LGBTQ+ rights or lack thereof. “Amidst the Human Rights Campaign’s first ever National State of Emergency, anti-equality Members of Congress decided to echo the anti-LGBTQ+ extremist policies pioneered in the states,” Robinson writes in the scorecard’s introduction. “The 118th Congress had an unprecedented number of anti-LGBTQ+ votes, the majority of which specifically targeted the transgender community.
    The Human Rights Campaign’s Congressional Scorecard for the 118th Congress is out, and it reflects both “an unprecedented onslaught of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation” and resistance from pro-equality lawmakers, HRC President Kelley Robinson says.
    The scorecard, released Monday, covers the 2023-2024 session of Congress and rates every U.S. senator and representative on their support for LGBTQ+ rights or lack thereof. “Amidst the Human Rights Campaign’s first ever National State of Emergency, anti-equality Members of Congress decided to echo the anti-LGBTQ+ extremist policies pioneered in the states,” Robinson writes in the scorecard’s introduction. “The 118th Congress had an unprecedented number of anti-LGBTQ+ votes, the majority of which specifically targeted the transgender community.
    “Republican leadership in the House of Representatives decided to use the annual appropriations bills and the National Defense Authorization Act to advance dozens of anti-LGBTQ+ provisions. These anti-equality measures threatened to restrict transgender health care, prohibit enforcement of civil rights protections, ban Pride flags and drag performances, eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, and allow licenses to discriminate against LGBTQ+ people. House Republican leaders largely refused to allow floor votes on amendments to strike these provisions. Fortunately, despite House Republicans’ best attempts, we have prevented more than 100 anti-LGBTQ+ riders from being signed into law, a true testament to our organizing power.” The Senate, with a slim Democratic majority, saw far fewer attacks on LGBTQ+ people.
    The forces behind homophobic and transphobic legislation during the session included many of the usual suspects, all Republicans. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia tried to reduce Assistant Secretary for Health Rachel Levine’s annual salary to $1, and it was clear Levine was being targeted because she is transgender. Rep. Lauren Boebert of Colorado tried to do the same with another trans official, Assistant Secretary of Defense Shawn Skelly. Rep. Chip Roy of Texas sought to keep the Defense Department from celebrating Pride Month. The full House rejected all these proposals.
    The House did approve a version of the National Defense Authorization Act, a must-pass funding bill, that would have banned gender-affirming care, books about transgender people, drag performances, and Pride flags. However, after negotiations between the House and Senate, the anti-LGBTQ+ provisions were stripped from the bill.
    “To an unprecedented extent, House Republican lawmakers tried to use the traditionally bipartisan, must-pass annual defense bill as a vehicle to attack LGBTQ+ service members and their families — but because of the work of champions in Congress, HRC’s supporters, and our partners in the movement, they failed,” HRC Vice President of Government Affairs David Stacy said in a statement at the time. “The public supports the ability of LGBTQ+ and trans people to live lives free from discrimination, and they have the strong support of the Biden administration and pro-equality lawmakers. Continued efforts by the anti-equality fringe to use every legislative vehicle they can to attack our communities will not succeed. We hope they learn their lesson.”
    In the Senate, Republican Tommy Tuberville of Alabama proposed an amendment that would have denied federal funds to schools that allow transgender girls to participate in sports under their gender identity. It was rejected thanks to Senate Democrats and independents. Republican Sen. Roger Marshall of Kansas tried to use the defense bill to ban the display of Pride flags in public buildings, but this too was defeated.
    Besides the rejection of much anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, bright spots in the federal government over the past two years included an increase in out lawmakers, judges, and ambassadors. California’s Laphonza Butler, a Democrat appointed to fill out the Senate term of the late Dianne Feinstein, was the first Black lesbian U.S. senator. Butler, who is not running in this year’s election, joined Sen. Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin, a lesbian and a Democrat, and Sen. Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona, a bisexual woman and former Democrat, now an independent, to make a record number of out U.S. senators. Sinema, who has taken some conservative positions, also is not running this year, but Baldwin is seeking reelection.
    Read the full article HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Cuellar Celebrates Ribbon Cutting for the New Gateway Community Health Center-West Clinic in Laredo

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28)

    LAREDO, TX – Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28), Ph.D. celebrated the ribbon cutting for the new Gateway Community Health Center-West Clinic in Laredo. 

    “Gateway Community Health Center is the backbone of Laredo’s health system. I secured Congressionally directed funding in FY22 to help expand Gateway’s reach and provide Laredo residents with the quality health care they need to live healthy, fulfilling lives,” said Dr. Cuellar, a Senior Member of the House Appropriations Committee. “I will continue to fight in Congress to expand access to affordable health care. Thank you to Elmo Lopez, CEO of Gateway Community Health Center, Lauro Garcia, Board Chairman of the Gateway Community Health Center, Mayor of Laredo Dr. Victor Trevino, Laredo District 8 City Councilwoman Alyssa Cigarroa, and the Gateway staff for their commitment to continued care for South Texas patients.” 

    The new Gateway Community Health Center-West Clinic was made possible by $2,000,000 in Congressionally directed funding that Dr. Cuellar secured in FY22.  

    As the first clinic in West Laredo, the Gateway Community Health Center-West Clinic will ensure that everyone in West Laredo has access to healthcare, including those who come from underrepresented groups. 

    The new clinic will include all primary care, adult care, and pediatric care. There will also be a laboratory and a pharmacy on the premise. 

    Dr. Cuellar is a strong supporter of community health centers. He previously secured $6,005,040 in federal funding for Gateway provided by the Health Resources and Services Administration’s (HRSA) Health Center Cluster program. The funds will enable all Gateway clinics to continue delivering affordable, quality, and value-based primary health care.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA is Hiring in Southwest Virginia: Help Tropical Storm Helene Survivors

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA is Hiring in Southwest Virginia: Help Tropical Storm Helene Survivors

    FEMA is Hiring in Southwest Virginia: Help Tropical Storm Helene Survivors

    BRISTOL, Va.— FEMA is hiring local residents to support the recovery of Virginians affected by Tropical Storm Helene. Opportunities are available as part of FEMA’s Local Hire and Reservists programs. Local hire employees are local residents who aid in the recovery of their community throughout the recovery process. Local hire employees are hired into 120-day appointments and may be extended based on the needs of the disaster. FEMA local hire employees are eligible for the following benefits:Health insurance for individual or family coverage. Employer contribution is 75% of premium. Local Hire employees are eligible for enrollment in health insurance coverage as of the official hire date/employment date with FEMA.Flexible spending accountsFederal long-term care insuranceAbility to earn 4 hours of paid sick leave per pay period.Holiday payWorker’s compensationCurrent local hire employee opportunities include:Voluntary Agency Liaison (Bristol) – the deadline to apply is October 27 at 11:59 p.m. ET or when 200 applications are received, which may be sooner than the closing date. Visual Imaging Specialist (Bristol) – the deadline to apply is October 27 at 11:59 p.m. ET or when 100 applications are received, which may be sooner than the closing date.Program Liaison Specialist (Bristol) – the deadline to apply is October 28 at 11:59 p.m. ET or when 200 applications are received, which may be sooner than the closing date.Intergovernmental/Congressional Affairs and Private Sector Specialist (Bristol) – the deadline to apply is October 29 at 11:59 p.m. ET or when 100 applications are received, which may be sooner than the closing date. Emergency Management Specialist 2 (Richmond and Bristol) – the deadline to apply is October 29 at 11:59 p.m. ET. Due to the unpredictable nature of disasters, FEMA employs a temporary, on-call workforce, known as Reservists. Reservist work is available on an as-needed basis (it is not full-time or continuous). As a Reservist, you may be requested to deploy based upon the needs of a disaster and the need for your position. Deployment opportunities and length of deployments are not guaranteed and may be unpredictable. Reservists should be prepared to deploy at moment’s notice. FEMA Reservists are eligible for the following benefits:Accrual of sick leave and overtime while deployedReimbursement for travelEligible for health benefitsLodging, meals, and per diem while deployedReservist opportunities are available on USAJobs.As the disaster operational needs shift, new positions may be posted. To see all open roles, visit USAJobs.gov, type “Local Hire” or “Reservists” in the keywords section and “Bristol” or “Virginia” for location. Apply online for all roles. For tips, including how to prepare your resume and navigate the website, visit USAJOBS Help Center – Application Process. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, 18 years of age or older, and must possess a high school diploma or GED. Individuals will be required to pass a background investigation that includes fingerprinting and credit check, be able to provide their own transportation to and from work and live within 50 miles of the employing office. Employees are also required to participate in mandatory direct deposit/electronic funds transfer for salary payment.The federal government and commonwealth are here to support recovery for the whole community. For additional disaster recovery resources, visit vaemergency.gov,  the Virginia Department of Emergency Management Facebook page , fema.gov/disaster/4831 and facebook.com/FEMA.  ###FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.To apply for FEMA assistance, please call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362, visit https://www.disasterassistance.gov/, or download and apply on the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages). Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status.
    kelly.magarity
    Fri, 10/25/2024 – 15:31

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Law Enforcement Plan Crack Down Through Halloween

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that State Police and local law enforcement will increase patrols through Halloween, targeting impaired and reckless drivers. The enforcement period begins on Friday, Oct. 25, and runs through Thursday, Oct. 31, and is funded by the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee.

    “Responsible choices are key to ensuring that all New Yorkers have a safe and fun Halloween,” Governor Hochul said. “If you’re planning to celebrate, plan to have a sober ride home. I thank the New York State Police and our local law enforcement for keeping our children, communities and celebrations safe and fun.”

    During the enforcement period, drivers can expect several sobriety checkpoints and additional DWI patrols. In addition to targeting impaired drivers, law enforcement officers will also be looking for drivers that are distracted or speeding.

    During last year’s initiative, law enforcement officers issued 32,866 citations and 1,182 drivers were arrested for impaired driving and 6,495 drivers were ticketed for speeding.

    The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports Halloween is a particularly deadly night due to the high number of impaired drivers on the roads and a significant increase in pedestrians. In 2022, 72 people died in traffic crashes during Halloween night. Of those fatalities, 46 percent occurred in alcohol-related crashes.

    Children out trick-or-treating, and those who accompany them, are also at increased risk. According to AAA Northeast, from 2007 to 2021 federal crash data shows Halloween is the deadliest day for child pedestrians under the age of 18. A total of 49 children across the country were killed on Halloween during that period, nearly double the next deadliest day.

    The Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee and the State Department of Health are sharing the following helpful safety guidance for parents, caregivers and drivers to help avoid injuries and ensure a safe and happy Halloween.

    Safety Tips for Pedestrians

    • Walk on a sidewalk if one is available and use crosswalks. In areas without sidewalks, walk facing traffic.
    • Look left, right and left again and continue looking as you cross the street.
    • Watch for cars backing up and never dart out between parked cars.
    • Before the Halloween festivities begin, create a “buddy system” to get each other home safely and prevent walking alone. Stick to areas that are well lit and familiar.
    • To be safest, join other families and walk together. Walking in groups always makes you more visible.
    • In selecting costumes for children, make sure the child will be fully visible. Wear reflective clothing such as wristbands and shoes, carry a flashlight or glow sticks, or place reflective tape on costumes or trick-or-treat bags.
    • Be sure that shoes, hats and costumes fit well. A costume that is too long can be a danger for tripping while walking. Hats and masks should not block vision.
    • Do not use mobile phones or wear headphones. Always stay aware of your surroundings.

    Safety Tips for Drivers

    • Give yourself extra time to get to your destination. You may have to stop for trick-or-treaters, which may add to your travel time.
    • Slow down and continuously scan the road in areas where trick-or-treaters are likely to be or where visibility is limited. Slower speeds save lives.
    • Stay alert for pedestrians who may emerge from between parked cars or behind shrubbery. Stop and wait for them to pass.
    • Look for pedestrians, especially before turning at a green light and making a right turn on red.
    • Pay attention! Don’t look at your phone when driving. Always keep your attention on the road.
    • If you see a drunk driver, contact law enforcement.

    New York State Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder said, “Enforcement periods like this are necessary to raise awareness about the dangers of impaired and reckless driving. We want everyone to be safe and enjoy Halloween festivities. Children and parents should never have to worry about getting home safely when they are out trick-or-treating.”

    New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, “Halloween is meant to be a fun day, but it can turn deadly when someone makes the wrong choice to drink and drive. Drivers should exercise extreme caution and be mindful of extra pedestrian traffic as children and their parents will be out walking our streets. Together, we can work to make our roads safer for all who travel and walk them.”

    New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “Halloween is the highlight of the fall season for many children and their families and it’s important to ensure avoid injuries when out trick-or-treating by practicing safe pedestrian rules. Pay attention to traffic signs and keep an eye out for drivers and for each other.”

    Delaware County Sheriff and President of the NYS Sheriffs’ Association Craig DuMond said, “There is plenty to fear this spooky time of year, but trick-or-treaters shouldn’t have to worry about dangerous drivers. Law enforcement will be out to make sure everyone is safe as families are enjoying Halloween, and sometimes the days before and after. Drivers need to be on the lookout for pedestrians. It is hard to see ghouls and goblins if you are speeding or driving impaired. The Sheriffs of New York State want you to enjoy your tricks and treats safely, so obey the speed limit and drive sober.”

    New York State Association of Chiefs of Police President and City of Batavia Police Department Chief Shawn Heubusch said, “Stay safe this Halloween: watch for pedestrians, don’t drive impaired, and slow down for trick-or-treaters. Let’s keep our communities safe and enjoyable for everyone.”

    In addition to offering safety tips ahead of Halloween, the State Department of Health promotes pedestrian safety all year long through its See! Be Seen! Pedestrian safety initiative, which recently included a Safe Street: Walking with Daisy campaign to teach kids in Grades K-5 some simple rules of the road to help them cross the street safely.

    For drivers who might find themselves in need of a way home after Halloween parties, the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee and the New York State STOP-DWI Foundation’s “Have a Plan” mobile app, is available for Apple and Android smartphones. The app enables New Yorkers to locate and call a taxi service and program a designated driver list. It also provides information on DWI laws and penalties, and a way to report a suspected impaired driver.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Monica De La Cruz Introduces Bill to Reauthorize National Diabetes Prevention Program

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Monica De La Cruz (TX-15)

    Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) has introduced the Diabetes Prevention Program Reauthorization Act of 2024, with bipartisan support from Rep. Lou Correa (CA-46). The bill reauthorizes and increases funding for the National Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP), a nationwide partnership of public and private organizations focusing on preventing type 2 diabetes through lifestyle changes. In the U.S., nearly 1 in 3 adults have prediabetes and the DPP has been shown to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 58%, and by 71% for those over age 60.

    “Our communities understand the very real financial and health consequences of type 2 diabetes. This bill rightfully focuses on expanding access to preventative healthcare so that more Americans can access the support they need,” De La Cruz said. “I thank Rep. Correa for his support as we continue the fight against diabetes.”

    “For many of our neighbors in Orange County and for millions of Americans across the country, the financial and health impacts of type 2 diabetes are very real, and incredibly devastating,” Correa said. “To address this crisis head on, we must increase access to preventive care so that our brothers and sisters on Main Street have access to the support they need and deserve. This legislation is a necessary step in our fight against type 2 diabetes, and I’m honored to work alongside Rep. De La Cruz to keep our communities healthy.”

    YMCA of the USA President and CEO Suzanne McCormick said, “YMCA of the USA thanks Representatives De La Cruz and Correa for their efforts to reauthorize and grow the CDC’s National Diabetes Prevention Program. The Y worked with Congress to establish the program, and YMCAs across the country were the first organizations to offer the program in a community setting. We have seen firsthand the positive impact it has on the health of those living with prediabetes, and we believe this legislation will help the Y and others make the program more affordable and accessible to those who need it most.”

    The legislation is supported by the Diabetes Advocacy Alliance (letter available here), the Texas State Alliance of YMCAs (letter available here), the American Podiatric Medical Association, the Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists, the Black Women’s Health Imperative, the Endocrine Society, the National Association of Chronic Disease Directors, Omada Health, and WeightWatchers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Alberta legislature to reconvene for fall session

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    [embedded content]

    This fall, Alberta’s government will introduce legislation that fortifies the rights, freedoms and opportunities of Albertans, ensuring protections are updated to reflect these modern times.

    During the fall session, Alberta’s government will focus on amending and strengthening the Alberta Bill of Rights, to include the introduction of new rights for Albertans, such as protections for personal autonomy, including the right not to be given medical care, treatment or a vaccine without consent; the right to acquire, keep and use firearms in accordance with the law; and strengthened property rights.

    “Alberta’s government is heading back to the legislature with a laser-focus on the protection of Albertans’ best interests. The legislation introduced this session will see Alberta be a leader in Canada, enshrining fundamental rights while simultaneously ensuring our province remains a haven for job-creating investment with strong, business-friendly policies.”

    Joseph Schow, Government House Leader and Minister of Tourism and Sport

    Legislation will be introduced preserving choice for minors, supporting student success and well-being in schools by strengthening ties between parents and their child’s education, and protecting fairness and safety in sport by ensuring biologically born women and girls have the opportunity to compete in biological female-only categories.

    Alberta’s government will also propose legislation to promote safety in the workplace, increase safety, transparency and accountability in the child-care sector, and protect Albertans’ privacy in today’s digital environment. The government’s emphasis on ensuring the rights and freedoms of Albertans are protected in an ever-changing world is in addition to the ongoing work to continue diversifying Alberta’s economy and maintain Alberta’s business- and investment-friendly environment.  

    Proposed bills to be introduced this session include:

    • Alberta Bill of Rights Amendment Act, 2024
    • Early Learning and Child Care Amendment Act, 2024
    • Health Statutes Amendment Act, 2024
    • Education Amendment Act, 2024
    • Meat Inspection Amendment Act, 2024
    • Fairness and Safety in Sport Act
    • Service Alberta Statutes Amendment Act, 2024
    • Justice Statutes Amendment Act, 2024
    • Financial Statutes Amendment Act, 2024
    • Protection of Privacy Act
    • Access to Information Act
    • All-season Resorts Act
    • Miscellaneous Statutes Amendment Act, 2024

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NCDHHS Livestream Fireside Chat and Tele-Town Hall: NC Medicaid for More People: Health Coverage Options During Open Enrollment

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: NCDHHS Livestream Fireside Chat and Tele-Town Hall: NC Medicaid for More People: Health Coverage Options During Open Enrollment

    NCDHHS Livestream Fireside Chat and Tele-Town Hall: NC Medicaid for More People: Health Coverage Options During Open Enrollment
    hejones1

    The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services will host a live fireside chat and tele-town hall on Tuesday, Oct. 29, from 6 to 7 p.m., to discuss what to know and ways to apply for health care coverage, including NC Medicaid, during open enrollment. 

    Event participants include:

    • LaQuana Palmer, MPA, Deputy Director, NC Medicaid Communications and Engagement, Division of Health Benefits, NCDHHS  
    • Hollis Smith, Medicaid Expansion Outreach and Education Coordinator, Care Share Health Alliance 

    Open enrollment for NC Medicaid and other health care coverage options begins Nov. 1. Open enrollment is the annual window of time when everyone can apply for or renew health care coverage for themselves and their families.

    Fireside chat and tele-town hall panelists will discuss the following:  

    • Who is newly eligible for Medicaid under expansion
    • What to know about open enrollment
    • Ways to apply for Medicaid or other health care coverage  
    • How to get support understanding your health coverage options 

    The NCDHHS Medicaid expansion website provides information on eligibility, how to apply and where to find support. Individuals can connect with state and local support teams to learn more about their health care coverage options, complete Medicaid applications and navigate enrollment. Resources are also available to help people who need to renew their Medicaid coverage. 

    The fireside chat will stream live from the NCDHHS Facebook and YouTube accounts, where viewers can submit questions. The event also includes a tele-town hall, which invites people by phone to listen in and submit questions. People can dial into the event by calling 855-756-7520 Ext. 111943#. 

    Those joining the event will have the opportunity to ask questions about Medicaid expansion, eligibility and enrollment. 

    Oct 25, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Physician Charged in Scheme to Illegally Sell Cancer Drugs

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Detroit – A Royal Oak physician was charged in an Indictment for his role in a multi-million-dollar scheme to illegally sell and divert expensive prescription cancer drugs, United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison announced.

    Joining Ison in the announcement were Special Agent in Charge Mario M. Pinto, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Special Agent in Charge Angie M. Salazar, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and Special Agent in Charge Ronne Malham, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

    Charged in the Indictment is Dr. Naveed Aslam, age 51, of West Bloomfield, Michigan.

    The charges against Dr. Aslam include one count of conspiracy to illegally sell or trade prescription drugs and 10 counts of illegally selling or trading prescription drugs.

    According to the Indictment, by early 2019, and continuing through August 2023, Dr. Aslam, a licensed physician, worked with others to buy and sell expensive cancer drugs for profit and with the intent to defraud and mislead. The other individuals Dr. Aslam worked with identified customers interested in buying prescription cancer drugs, and they communicated with Dr. Aslam about what cancer drugs were requested. Dr. Aslam used his access to certain cancer drugs through his medical practice, Somerset Hematology and Oncology, P.C., to order and purchase the cancer drugs from his supplier. He then sold the cancer drugs to and through the other individuals’ company to the eventual customer. During this scheme, Dr. Aslam acquired and sold more than $17 million in prescription cancer drugs, and personally profited more than $2.5 million.

    “The safety and integrity of our country’s prescription drug supply lines – particularly for cancer drugs – is an important part of our health care system,” stated U.S. Attorney Ison. “As alleged, Dr. Aslam used his role as a physician to violate that integrity and divert prescription cancer drugs away from treating patients. My office is committed to prosecuting medical professionals who seek to profit, rather than protect, our health care system.”

    “Our agency is dedicated to ensuring that medical providers follow laws designed to protect both the integrity and solvency of Federal health care programs, as well as the beneficiaries they serve,” said Mario M. Pinto, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG will continue to work closely with our Federal law enforcement partners to thoroughly investigate allegations of fraud.”

    “Having the authority to prescribe medication is a privilege that comes with a profound responsibility. Physicians must safeguard against drug diversion,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “Dr. Aslam’s alleged participation in this scheme not only allowed him to profit unlawfully from the sale of cancer drugs, but it also posed a serious threat by potentially placing these medications into the wrong hands. This breach of trust is inexcusable, especially considering the critical nature of the drugs involved. The FBI is unwavering in its commitment to hold medical professionals accountable for exploiting their positions for personal gain and endangering community safety.”

    “Introducing diverted prescription drugs into the supply chain and selling them to unsuspecting consumers undermines the FDA safeguards designed to protect the public,” said Ronne Malham, Special Agent in Charge, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, Chicago Field Office‎. “We remain committed to bringing to justice those who place their personal gain over the health of American consumers.”

    “A physician’s ethical responsibility is to their patients, not to selling cancer drugs under the table for profit,” said HSI Detroit Special Agent in Charge Angie M. Salazar. “We will protect patients against fraud, especially from those in positions of public trust who choose greed over public safety.”

    An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Lievense. Assistant United States Attorney Jessica A. Nathan of the Money Laundering & Asset Recovery Unit is handling related forfeiture matters. The investigation is being conducted jointly by the FBI, HHS-OIG, HSI, and the FDA.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Chair’s Statement Fiftieth Meeting of the IMFC – Mr. Mohammed Aljadaan, Minister for Finance of Saudi Arabia

    Source: International Monetary Fund

    October 25, 2024

    In the context of the Fiftieth Meeting of the IMFC that took place in Washington, D.C. on 24th and 25th October, several IMFC members discussed the global macroeconomic and financial impact of current wars and conflicts, including with regard to Russia, Ukraine, Israel, Gaza, Lebanon, and in other places. IMFC members underscored that all states must act in a manner consistent with the Purposes and Principles of the UN Charter in its entirety. They acknowledged, however, that the IMFC is not a forum to resolve geopolitical and security issues which are discussed in other fora.

     

    ****

    IMFC members agreed on the following text:

     

    Securing a soft landing and breaking from the current low growth-high debt path are the policy priorities for the global economy. We welcome the IMF’s efforts to enhance its surveillance, lending toolkit, and capacity development, and become more representative. Looking ahead, we remain committed to multilateral cooperation to promote global prosperity and address shared challenges.

     

    1. The global economy has moved closer to a soft landing. Economic activity has proven resilient, with global growth steady and inflation continuing to moderate. However, this masks important divergences across countries. Uncertainty remains significant and some downside risks have increased. Ongoing wars and conflicts continue to impose a heavy burden on the global economy. Medium-term growth prospects remain weak, and global public debt has reached record highs.
    1. We will work to further secure a soft landing while stepping up our reform efforts to shift away from a low growth-high debt path and address other medium-term challenges. Fiscal policy should pivot toward consolidation, where needed, to ensure debt sustainability and rebuild buffers. Consolidation should be underpinned by credible medium-term plans and institutional frameworks while protecting the vulnerable and supporting growth-enhancing public and private investments. Monetary policy must ensure inflation returns durably to target, consistent with central bank mandates, remain data-dependent, and be well communicated. Financial sector authorities should continue to closely monitor risks in banks and non-banks, including from property markets. We will continue to enhance financial regulation and supervision, including via timely finalization and implementation of internationally agreed reforms, and harness the benefits of financial and technological innovation, while mitigating the risks. We will pursue well-calibrated and sequenced growth-enhancing structural reforms to ease binding constraints to economic activity, boost productivity, increase labor market participation, promote social cohesion, and support the climate and digital transitions.
    1. We remain committed to international cooperation to improve the resilience of the global economy and build prosperity, while ensuring the smooth functioning of the international monetary system. We reiterate our commitments on exchange rates, addressing excessive global imbalances, and our statement on the rules-based multilateral trading system, as made in April 2021, and reaffirm our commitment to avoid protectionist measures.
    1. We will continue to support countries as they undertake reforms and address debt vulnerabilities and liquidity challenges. We welcome the progress made on debt treatments under the G20 Common Framework (CF) and beyond. We remain committed to addressing global debt vulnerabilities in an effective, comprehensive, and systematic manner, including stepping up the CF’s implementation in a predictable, timely, orderly, and coordinated manner, and enhancing debt transparency. We look forward to further work at the Global Sovereign Debt Roundtable on ways to address debt vulnerabilities and restructuring challenges. We encourage the IMF and the World Bank to develop further their proposal to support countries with sustainable debt but experiencing liquidity challenges.
    1. We welcome the policy priorities set out in the Managing Director’s Global Policy Agenda, and welcome the start of Ms. Kristalina Georgieva’s second five-year term as Managing Director.
    1. We support the IMF’s surveillance focus on country-tailored advice to help members assess risks, bolster policy and institutional frameworks, and calibrate macrofinancial and macrostructural policies to enhance resilience, ensure debt sustainability, and boost inclusive and sustainable growth. We look forward to the Comprehensive Surveillance Review that will set future surveillance priorities.
    1. We welcome the recent reforms to the lending toolkit. We welcome the completion of the review of PRGT facilities and financing that aims to bolster the IMF’s capacity to support low-income countries in addressing their balance of payments needs, mindful of their vulnerabilities, while restoring the self-sustainability of the Trust. We welcome the Review of Charges and the Surcharge Policy, which will alleviate the financial cost of Fund lending for borrowing countries, while preserving their intended incentives and safeguarding the Fund’s financial soundness. We welcome the enhanced cooperation with the World Bank on climate action, and with the World Bank and the World Health Organization on pandemic preparedness, which will further enhance the effectiveness of IMF support through the Resilience and Sustainability Trust (RST). We look forward to the Review of the GRA Access Limits, the Review of Program Design and Conditionality, the Review of the Short-term Liquidity Line, and the comprehensive Review of the RST. We continue to invite countries to explore voluntary channeling of SDRs, including through MDBs, where legally possible, while preserving their reserve asset status.
    1. We support the IMF’s efforts to strengthen capacity development and to secure appropriate financing. We welcome the ongoing work with the World Bank on the Domestic Resource Mobilization Initiative.
    1. We reaffirm our commitment to a strong, quota-based, and adequately resourced IMF at the center of the global financial safety net. We have secured, or are working to secure, domestic approvals for our consent to the quota increase under the 16th General Review of Quotas (GRQ) by mid-November this year, as well as relevant adjustments under the New Arrangements to Borrow (NAB). As a safeguard to preserve the Fund’s lending capacity in case of a delay in securing timely consent to the quota increase, creditors for Bilateral Borrowing Agreements are working to secure approvals for transitional arrangements for maintaining IMF access to bilateral borrowing. We acknowledge the urgency and importance of realignment in quota shares to better reflect members’ relative positions in the world economy, while protecting the quota shares of the poorest members. We welcome the Executive Board’s ongoing work to develop by June 2025 possible approaches as a guide for further quota realignment, including through a new quota formula, under the 17th
    1. We welcome the new 25th chair on the Executive Board for Sub-Saharan Africa, strengthening the voice and representation of the region. We also welcome Liechtenstein as a new member. We appreciate staff’s high-quality work and dedication to support the membership. We encourage further efforts to improve staff diversity and inclusion. We reiterate our commitment to strengthen gender diversity at the Executive Board and will continue to work to achieve the voluntary objectives to increase the number of women in Board leadership positions.
    1. We reiterate our strong commitment to the Fund on its 80th anniversary and look forward to further discussing at our next meeting ways to ensure the Fund remains well-equipped to meet future challenges, in line with its mandate, and in collaboration with partners and other IFIs. We ask our Deputies to prepare for this discussion.
    1. Our next meeting is expected to be held in April 2025.
    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Randa Elnagar

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    @IMFSpokesperson

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Tennessee Business Owner Convicted of $35M Fraud Scheme

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    A federal jury convicted a Tennessee business owner yesterday for fraudulently billing federal health care programs approximately $35 million for medically unnecessary injections, which were administered over the course of approximately eight years to a population of opioid-dependent patients.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Michael Kestner, 72, of Nashville, at various times owned, operated, and managed pain clinics in Tennessee, North Carolina, and Virginia, which were ultimately branded under the name Pain MD. The trial evidence proved that Kestner, who is not a physician, pressured nurse practitioners and physician assistants employed by clinics in the Pain MD network to provide multiple back injections to many, if not most, patients who came to Pain MD seeking opioid treatment. Witnesses testified that patients who refused to accept regular injections risked being turned away from Pain MD and suffering withdrawals from their opioid medication.

    The evidence further demonstrated that the injections were uniformly billed as Tendon Origin Insertion injections (TOIs), even though almost none of these patients were diagnosed with pain in their tendons, and in many cases, it would have been medically impossible to administer TOIs with the equipment available to the practitioners. Nevertheless, Kestner relentlessly pressured the providers at his clinics to administer and bill for injections.

    The evidence also demonstrated that, to keep billings up, Kestner sent regular emails ranking the practitioners’ “production” against one another, criticizing providers for “below average” performance, and otherwise making providers feel they would lose their jobs or let down their clinic staff if they did not perform an increasing number of injections. He ignored repeated notices — including a lawsuit — from insurance companies alerting him that his clinics were billing these injections improperly. Through these practices, Pain MD became Medicare’s single highest biller of TOI procedures in the country, outranking the next highest biller by approximately eightfold.

    The jury convicted Kestner of one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and 12 counts of health care fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 27, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for each count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Special Agent in Charge Kelly J. Blackmon of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG); Special Agent in Charge Darrin K. Jones of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) Southeast Field Office, Department of Defense Office of Inspector General; Special Agent in Charge Kim R. Lampkins of the Department of Veteran Affairs Office of Inspector General (VA-OIG) Mid-Atlantic Field Office; and Director David Rausch of the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) made the announcement.

    HHS-OIG, DCIS, VA-OIG, and TBI are investigating the case.

    Assistant Chief James V. Hayes and Trial Attorney Victor Yanz, with the assistance of Assistant Chief Kate Payerle, all of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, are prosecuting the case.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,400 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $27 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Moran: Kansas Veterans may be Impacted by VA Electronic System Failure

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas – Jerry Moran

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – ranking member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee – was alerted by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of a problem with an electronic fax system that resulted in 875 files sent to the VA Eastern Kansas Health Care System from community care providers to go missing.

    These files dated as far back as June 11, 2024, and contained medical documentation, care referrals, authorizations for care and other information needed for the coordination of veteran health care.

    “I have asked VA to quickly review every file and take all appropriate actions to mitigate patient harm that has or may result from this system failure,” said Sen. Moran. “I have also asked VA to quickly review each of the other 27 health care systems across the Veterans Health Administration that use this same electronic fax system in order to identify similar issues and assist any patients whose care has been negatively impacted. My office will remain in contact with VA until the full scope of this problem is known and all necessary corrective actions are taken.”

    Any veteran concerned this issue may have caused a delay in their care should contact their VA care team. If a veteran needs further assistance, they should reach out to Sen. Moran’s office here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Missoula man admits embezzling approximately $390,000 from credit union, swapping real money for fake currency

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MISSOULA — A former Missoula credit union employee accused of embezzling approximately $390,000 from the vault and swapping the real money with fake funds admitted to a theft charge today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.

    The defendant, Edward Arthur Nurse, 35, of Missoula, pleaded guilty to an indictment charging him with theft from credit union. Nurse faces a maximum of 30 years in prison, a $1 million fine and five years of supervised release.

    U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for Feb. 25, 2025. Nurse was released pending further proceedings.

    In court documents, the government alleged that from about July 2023 to June 2024, Nurse embezzled from his employer, Park Side Credit Union in Missoula. In June 2024, an employee discovered $340,000 in cash in the credit union’s vault had been replaced with fake funds from a company that provides fake currency as props for movies and entertainment productions. Nurse was identified as a potential suspect because his primary role was managing and balancing money in the vault. In the previous seven months, financial records showed cash deposits totaling $117,751, with each deposit for more than $10,000, into Nurse’s bank account. In addition, financial information from a local casino reflected that from March 2024 to May 2024, Nurse put more than $56,000 in cash into the business and cashed out slightly more than $8,000.

    After the credit union discovered the thefts, Nurse claimed to an FBI special agent that he did not usually carry much cash and, aside from a vacation to Las Vegas, Nevada, he had not made any recent large purchases or cash deposits. The investigation determined that during the first six months of 2024, Nurse had purchased $410,000 in fake currency from a prop money company and had the money delivered to a post office box in Nurse’s name. The credit union was later informed that approximately $50,000 in fake money had been received by the Federal Reserve in July 2024. Those funds were returned and determined to be fake bills from the prop money company.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The FBI with assistance from the Missoula Police Department, conducted the investigation.

    XXX

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Sandy Lake First Nation Opens Doors and Access to Modernized Health Services

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    October 25, 2024 — Sandy Lake First Nation, Treaty 5 Territory, Ontario — Indigenous Services Canada and Sandy Lake First Nation

    Sandy Lake First Nation, with funding support from Indigenous Services Canada, is bringing a new era of modern health services to its community as the Sandy Lake Community Health Center opens its doors today, serving the health needs of the over 2,600 residents living on reserve in the remote, fly-in Northern Ontario community. Over 1,765 square metres, the facility will ensure that more Sandy Lake residents are able to access health services in their community, reducing health outcome disparities and enabling them to get healthcare when and where they want.

    The Community Health Center provides the expanded space, services, and technology required to meet the growing needs of the community. Replacing a smaller, aging health centre and health professional accommodations, the new Centre brings the community’s health services together under one roof. It houses the community’s primary health care services, dental care, vision care, and addictions treatment services. The building is equipped with modern technology that supports its operations onsite as well as telemedicine to deliver health services remotely. The funding will also improve access to diverse healthcare services. The new build includes two detached apartment buildings—with 10 units each—to house nursing staff and health care professionals visiting the community to provide care.   

    Indigenous Services Canada provided over $50 million to support this community-led project. Through this investment, the community is now better equipped to meet the health needs of residents.

    Additional multimedia

    Quotes

    “The Sandy Lake Community Health Center brings us together in one place where our culture and traditions are intertwined with modern medical services. The Centre is a new, spacious facility that improves access to health services for everyone in our community. I am grateful to all who helped create this new space, which will be used for healing, wellness, and recovery. The Health Center will be a cornerstone of our community. It ushers in improved health care for the people of today and for generations to come.”

    Chief Delores Kakegamic
    Sandy Lake First Nation

    “Supporting First Nations to develop modern, culturally appropriate, in-community health facilities is an important step in closing the health care gap. Congratulations to Sandy Lake First Nation and the project team for their work and dedication to see the Sandy Lake Community Health Center open its doors.”

    The Honourable Patty Hajdu
    Minister of Indigenous Services

    Quick facts

    • Sandy Lake First Nation, located in Treaty 5 territory, is a remote, fly-in First Nation in Northern Ontario, approximately 222 km northwest of Red Lake, Ontario.

    • The Sandy Lake Community Health Center is a modern 1,765 square metre facility with improved accessibility designed to meet the needs of flow and functionality for health care delivery and includes:

      • primary facility;
      • two resident apartment buildings with ten units each;
      • new storage garage;
      • back-up generator; and
      • bulk fuel storage and distribution system.       

    • The Health Centre is designed to reduce environmental impacts through increased energy efficiency, decreased greenhouse gas emissions, and built with sustainable materials.

    • The former community health centre and health professional accommodations will be re-purposed by the community to run additional health programming and administration.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    For more information, media may contact:

    Councillor Cynthia Fiddler
    Sandy Lake First Nations
    807-738-2403

    Jennifer Kozelj
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Honourable Patty Hajdu
    Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor
    jennifer.kozelj@sac-isc.gc.ca

    ISC Media Relations
    819-953-1160
    media@sac-isc.gc.ca

    Stay connected

    Join the conversation about Indigenous Peoples in Canada:

    Twitter: @GCIndigenous
    Facebook: @GCIndigenous
    Instagram: @gcindigenous

    You can subscribe to receive our news releases and speeches via RSS feeds. For more information or to subscribe, visit www.isc.gc.ca/RSS.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tennessee Business Owner Convicted of $35M Fraud Scheme

    Source: US State of California

    A federal jury convicted a Tennessee business owner yesterday for fraudulently billing federal health care programs approximately $35 million for medically unnecessary injections, which were administered over the course of approximately eight years to a population of opioid-dependent patients.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Michael Kestner, 72, of Nashville, at various times owned, operated, and managed pain clinics in Tennessee, North Carolina, and Virginia, which were ultimately branded under the name Pain MD. The trial evidence proved that Kestner, who is not a physician, pressured nurse practitioners and physician assistants employed by clinics in the Pain MD network to provide multiple back injections to many, if not most, patients who came to Pain MD seeking opioid treatment. Witnesses testified that patients who refused to accept regular injections risked being turned away from Pain MD and suffering withdrawals from their opioid medication.

    The evidence further demonstrated that the injections were uniformly billed as Tendon Origin Insertion injections (TOIs), even though almost none of these patients were diagnosed with pain in their tendons, and in many cases, it would have been medically impossible to administer TOIs with the equipment available to the practitioners. Nevertheless, Kestner relentlessly pressured the providers at his clinics to administer and bill for injections.

    The evidence also demonstrated that, to keep billings up, Kestner sent regular emails ranking the practitioners’ “production” against one another, criticizing providers for “below average” performance, and otherwise making providers feel they would lose their jobs or let down their clinic staff if they did not perform an increasing number of injections. He ignored repeated notices — including a lawsuit — from insurance companies alerting him that his clinics were billing these injections improperly. Through these practices, Pain MD became Medicare’s single highest biller of TOI procedures in the country, outranking the next highest biller by approximately eightfold.

    The jury convicted Kestner of one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and 12 counts of health care fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 27, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for each count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Special Agent in Charge Kelly J. Blackmon of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG); Special Agent in Charge Darrin K. Jones of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) Southeast Field Office, Department of Defense Office of Inspector General; Special Agent in Charge Kim R. Lampkins of the Department of Veteran Affairs Office of Inspector General (VA-OIG) Mid-Atlantic Field Office; and Director David Rausch of the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) made the announcement.

    HHS-OIG, DCIS, VA-OIG, and TBI are investigating the case.

    Assistant Chief James V. Hayes and Trial Attorney Victor Yanz, with the assistance of Assistant Chief Kate Payerle, all of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, are prosecuting the case.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,400 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $27 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: IAEA Completes International Physical Protection Advisory Service Mission in the Republic of the Congo

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) team of experts completed today the first International Physical Protection Advisory Service (IPPAS) mission to the Republic of the Congo. The mission, conducted at the request of the Government of the Republic of the Congo, took place from 14 to 25 October 2024.  

    Hosted by the Nuclear Regulatory Cell of the Ministry of Justice, Human Rights and Promotion of Indigenous People of the Congo, the five-person mission team reviewed the security of radioactive material, associated facilities and activities in the country. The scope of the mission also included a review of the legislative and regulatory framework for the security of radioactive material.

    The Congo uses nuclear science and technology for peaceful purposes in various sectors, including industry, health, mining, education and environment.

    The IPPAS team peer reviewed the country’s implementation of the Convention on Physical Protection of Nuclear Material (CPPNM), which the Congo acceded to in 2021 and ratified its amendment in 2023, and of the Code of Conduct on the Safety and Security of Radioactive Sources.

    The IPPAS team, led by Frédéric Mariotte from France, included experts from Burkina Faso, Ghana, Jordan, as well as one IAEA staff member. The team held discussions with the Ministry of Justice, Human Rights and Promotion of Indigenous People, the Ministry of Interior, Decentralization and Local Development, the Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Higher Education, Scientific Research and Technological Innovations, and the Ministry of Health and People.

    The team observed that the nuclear security regime in the Congo is in the early phase of establishment. The team provided recommendations and suggestions to support the Congo in developing, enhancing and sustaining nuclear security.

    Heather Looney, Head of the Nuclear Security of Materials and Facilities Section of the IAEA ‘s Division of Nuclear Security, said that the IPPAS mission to the Congo comes amid the national authorities’ efforts to develop and implement all necessary elements required to fulfill their responsibilities in the area of nuclear security. “We trust that the findings of the IPPAS mission will inform the country’s plans to enhance the national nuclear security regime.”

    “The Republic of Congo has welcomed the IPPAS Mission and believes that the recommendations made will help the country improve and enhance its nuclear security regime,” said M. Gaspard Liyoko Mboyo, President of the Nuclear Regulatory Cell. “We thank the IAEA for its continuous assistance to the Republic of Congo.”

    Background

    The mission was the 105th IPPAS mission conducted by the IAEA since the programme began in 1995.

    IPPAS missions are intended to assist States in strengthening their national nuclear security regime. The missions provide peer advice on implementing international instruments, along with IAEA guidance on the protection of nuclear and other radioactive material and associated facilities.

    During missions, a team of international experts observes a nation’s system of physical protection, compares it with international good practices and makes recommendations for improvement. IPPAS missions are conducted both on a nationwide and facility-specific basis.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chair’s Statement Fiftieth Meeting of the IMFC – Mr. Mohammed Aljadaan, Minister for Finance of Saudi Arabia

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    October 25, 2024

    In the context of the Fiftieth Meeting of the IMFC that took place in Washington, D.C. on 24th and 25th October, several IMFC members discussed the global macroeconomic and financial impact of current wars and conflicts, including with regard to Russia, Ukraine, Israel, Gaza, Lebanon, and in other places. IMFC members underscored that all states must act in a manner consistent with the Purposes and Principles of the UN Charter in its entirety. They acknowledged, however, that the IMFC is not a forum to resolve geopolitical and security issues which are discussed in other fora.

     

    ****

    IMFC members agreed on the following text:

     

    Securing a soft landing and breaking from the current low growth-high debt path are the policy priorities for the global economy. We welcome the IMF’s efforts to enhance its surveillance, lending toolkit, and capacity development, and become more representative. Looking ahead, we remain committed to multilateral cooperation to promote global prosperity and address shared challenges.

     

    1. The global economy has moved closer to a soft landing. Economic activity has proven resilient, with global growth steady and inflation continuing to moderate. However, this masks important divergences across countries. Uncertainty remains significant and some downside risks have increased. Ongoing wars and conflicts continue to impose a heavy burden on the global economy. Medium-term growth prospects remain weak, and global public debt has reached record highs.
    1. We will work to further secure a soft landing while stepping up our reform efforts to shift away from a low growth-high debt path and address other medium-term challenges. Fiscal policy should pivot toward consolidation, where needed, to ensure debt sustainability and rebuild buffers. Consolidation should be underpinned by credible medium-term plans and institutional frameworks while protecting the vulnerable and supporting growth-enhancing public and private investments. Monetary policy must ensure inflation returns durably to target, consistent with central bank mandates, remain data-dependent, and be well communicated. Financial sector authorities should continue to closely monitor risks in banks and non-banks, including from property markets. We will continue to enhance financial regulation and supervision, including via timely finalization and implementation of internationally agreed reforms, and harness the benefits of financial and technological innovation, while mitigating the risks. We will pursue well-calibrated and sequenced growth-enhancing structural reforms to ease binding constraints to economic activity, boost productivity, increase labor market participation, promote social cohesion, and support the climate and digital transitions.
    1. We remain committed to international cooperation to improve the resilience of the global economy and build prosperity, while ensuring the smooth functioning of the international monetary system. We reiterate our commitments on exchange rates, addressing excessive global imbalances, and our statement on the rules-based multilateral trading system, as made in April 2021, and reaffirm our commitment to avoid protectionist measures.
    1. We will continue to support countries as they undertake reforms and address debt vulnerabilities and liquidity challenges. We welcome the progress made on debt treatments under the G20 Common Framework (CF) and beyond. We remain committed to addressing global debt vulnerabilities in an effective, comprehensive, and systematic manner, including stepping up the CF’s implementation in a predictable, timely, orderly, and coordinated manner, and enhancing debt transparency. We look forward to further work at the Global Sovereign Debt Roundtable on ways to address debt vulnerabilities and restructuring challenges. We encourage the IMF and the World Bank to develop further their proposal to support countries with sustainable debt but experiencing liquidity challenges.
    1. We welcome the policy priorities set out in the Managing Director’s Global Policy Agenda, and welcome the start of Ms. Kristalina Georgieva’s second five-year term as Managing Director.
    1. We support the IMF’s surveillance focus on country-tailored advice to help members assess risks, bolster policy and institutional frameworks, and calibrate macrofinancial and macrostructural policies to enhance resilience, ensure debt sustainability, and boost inclusive and sustainable growth. We look forward to the Comprehensive Surveillance Review that will set future surveillance priorities.
    1. We welcome the recent reforms to the lending toolkit. We welcome the completion of the review of PRGT facilities and financing that aims to bolster the IMF’s capacity to support low-income countries in addressing their balance of payments needs, mindful of their vulnerabilities, while restoring the self-sustainability of the Trust. We welcome the Review of Charges and the Surcharge Policy, which will alleviate the financial cost of Fund lending for borrowing countries, while preserving their intended incentives and safeguarding the Fund’s financial soundness. We welcome the enhanced cooperation with the World Bank on climate action, and with the World Bank and the World Health Organization on pandemic preparedness, which will further enhance the effectiveness of IMF support through the Resilience and Sustainability Trust (RST). We look forward to the Review of the GRA Access Limits, the Review of Program Design and Conditionality, the Review of the Short-term Liquidity Line, and the comprehensive Review of the RST. We continue to invite countries to explore voluntary channeling of SDRs, including through MDBs, where legally possible, while preserving their reserve asset status.
    1. We support the IMF’s efforts to strengthen capacity development and to secure appropriate financing. We welcome the ongoing work with the World Bank on the Domestic Resource Mobilization Initiative.
    1. We reaffirm our commitment to a strong, quota-based, and adequately resourced IMF at the center of the global financial safety net. We have secured, or are working to secure, domestic approvals for our consent to the quota increase under the 16th General Review of Quotas (GRQ) by mid-November this year, as well as relevant adjustments under the New Arrangements to Borrow (NAB). As a safeguard to preserve the Fund’s lending capacity in case of a delay in securing timely consent to the quota increase, creditors for Bilateral Borrowing Agreements are working to secure approvals for transitional arrangements for maintaining IMF access to bilateral borrowing. We acknowledge the urgency and importance of realignment in quota shares to better reflect members’ relative positions in the world economy, while protecting the quota shares of the poorest members. We welcome the Executive Board’s ongoing work to develop by June 2025 possible approaches as a guide for further quota realignment, including through a new quota formula, under the 17th
    1. We welcome the new 25th chair on the Executive Board for Sub-Saharan Africa, strengthening the voice and representation of the region. We also welcome Liechtenstein as a new member. We appreciate staff’s high-quality work and dedication to support the membership. We encourage further efforts to improve staff diversity and inclusion. We reiterate our commitment to strengthen gender diversity at the Executive Board and will continue to work to achieve the voluntary objectives to increase the number of women in Board leadership positions.
    1. We reiterate our strong commitment to the Fund on its 80th anniversary and look forward to further discussing at our next meeting ways to ensure the Fund remains well-equipped to meet future challenges, in line with its mandate, and in collaboration with partners and other IFIs. We ask our Deputies to prepare for this discussion.
    1. Our next meeting is expected to be held in April 2025.

    Chair

    Mohammed Aljadaan, Minister of Finance, Saudi Arabia

    Managing Director

    Kristalina Georgieva

    Members or Alternates

     

    Ayman Alsayari, Governor of the Saudi Central Bank, Saudi Arabia (Alternate for Mohammed Aljadaan, Minister of Finance, Saudi Arabia)

    Mohammed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs, United Arab Emirates

    Antoine Armand, Minister of Economy, Finance, and Industry, France

    Luis Caputo, Minister of Economy, Argentina

    Jim Chalmers, Treasurer of Australia

    Carlos Cuerpo, Minister of Economy, Trade and Enterprise, Spain

    Chrystia Freeland, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Canada

    Giancarlo Giorgetti, Minister of Economy and Finance, Italy

    Fernando Haddad, Minister of Finance, Brazil

    Eelco Heinen, Minister of Finance, The Netherlands

    Robert Holzmann, Governor of the Austrian National Bank, Austria

    Katsunobu Kato, Minister of Finance, Japan

    Karin Keller-Sutter, Minister of Finance, Switzerland

    Lesetja Kganyago, Governor, South African Reserve Bank, South Africa

    Christian Lindner, Federal Minister of Finance, Germany

    Mays Mouissi, Minister of Economy and Participations, Gabon

    Changneng Xuan, Deputy Governor of the People’s Bank of China (Alternate for Gongsheng Pan, Governor of the People’s Bank of China)

    Rachel Reeves, Chancellor of the Exchequer, H.M. Treasury, United Kingdom

    Ivan Chebeskov, Deputy Minister of Finance, Russian Federation (Alternate for Anton Siluanov, Minister of Finance, Russian Federation)

    Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of Finance, India

    Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput, Governor, Bank of Thailand

    Salah-Eddine Taleb, Governor, Bank of Algeria

    Trygve Slagsvold Vedum, Minister for Finance, Norway

    Janet Yellen, Secretary of the Treasury, United States

    Observers

    Agustín Carstens, General Manager, Bank for International Settlements (BIS)

    Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Chair, Development Committee (DC) and Minister of State for Financial Affairs, United Arab Emirates

    Christine Lagarde, President, European Central Bank (ECB)

    Paolo Gentiloni, Commissioner for Economy, European Commission (EC)

    Klaas Knot, Chair, Financial Stability Board (FSB) and President of De Nederlandsche Bank

    Richard Samans, Director, Research Department, International Labour Organization (ILO)

    Mathias Cormann, Secretary-General, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)

    Mohannad Alsuwaidan, Economic Analyst, Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC)

    Ahunna Eziakonwa, Assistant Secretary-General and UNDP Assistant Administrator, United Nations (UN)

    Penelope Hawkins, Officer-in-Charge, Debt and Development Finance Branch, United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)

    Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank Group, The World Bank (WB)

    Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General, World Trade Organization (WTO)

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Randa Elnagar

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    @IMFSpokesperson

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2024/10/25/pr24396-chairs-statement-fiftieth-meeting-of-the-imfc

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Empire of pain: City of London Police foil £1m illegal pharma drug gang with two people jailed and over 1,000,000 pills seized

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    City of London Police

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    Friday, October 25, 2024

    Three people have been sentenced today for their role in the large scale importation and distribution of unregulated pharmaceutical drugs into the UK from India where they were then repackaged and distributed internationally.

    The three defendants were found guilty during a 6 week trial and were sentenced today at Southwark Crown Court with the following:

    • Salman Ansari, 33, of Central Road, Wembley, was found guilty of 12 counts of possession with intent to supply drugs (Class A, B and C), one count of conspiracy to supply Class C and one count of money laundering. Salman Ansari received a six year sentence.
    • Waqas Saleem, 33, Sylvia Gardens, Wembley, was found guilty of 12 counts of possession with intent to supply drugs (classes A, B and C), one count of conspiracy to supply Class C and one count of money laundering. Waqas Saleem received a sentence of two and a half years.
    • Juhi Ansari, 32, of Central Road Wembley, was found guilty of one count of money laundering and received a suspended sentence but will be required to complete100 hours unpaid work and 25 days rehab.

    Over 730kg of drugs were seized during the operation. This included strong opioids such as tapentadol and tramadol, and benzodiazepines including zolpidem, zopiclone and nitrazepam. Both types of drugs are commonly misused for their sedation effect and can be fatal when combined. In total there were more than 1,000,000 tablets seized.

    In total, there were nine different drugs that were categorised as being Class C (zolpidem, zopiclone, nitrazepam, tramadol, etizolam, pregabalin, flubromazolam, bromazolam, alprazolam), one Class B (cannabis resin) and one Class A (tapentadol).

    Detective Constable Syed Shah, from the Serious Organised Crime Team, City of London Police said:

    “Today’s result is the culmination of numerous law enforcement agencies, working together from across the world, over a period of more than three years.

    “The illegal importation of drugs has a devastating impact on the public These drugs in particular are subject to an emerging trend of misuse due to their availability and affordability. Many of the drugs seized are unregulated products for the UK market, with the investigation team encountering counterfeited brands such as Xanax with flubromazolam where the pills dose and potency unknown. The withdrawal from drugs such as pregabalin can be more severe than opiate withdrawal and presents the user with a risk to life.

    “This investigation involved partnership working with colleagues from  UK Border Force, as well as crucial support overseas from US law enforcement, principally the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Customs and Border Patrol and the Food & Drug Administration (FDA). From everyone at City of London Police, we thank you all for your hard work.

    “To those individuals which have assisted or benefitted financially from this criminal enterprise, you all now become the focus of future investigations with law enforcement targeting you in the UK and overseas.”

    Special Agent Fernando McMillan, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, New York Field Office said:

    “Selling and importing unapproved pharmaceutical drugs across international borders and into the United States puts the public health at risk. FDA is grateful for the partnership with the City of London and multiple law enforcement agencies to bring these criminals to justice.”

    “Maintaining vigilance and collaboration with our counterparts in the U.K. remains critical to safeguarding public health and safety, and we will continue to enhance international cooperation and enforcement strategies to combat the illegal shipment of regulated products.”

    Special Agent Michael J. Krol, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), New England said:

    “This pharmaceutical smuggling ring was systematically disrupted and dismantled through the hard work of law enforcement on both sides of the Atlantic working together towards the same goal: a safe supply chain the public can trust. We live in a global society and crimes do not confine themselves to one country. We must work together to tackle transnational threats to ensure a safer world for all.”

    The investigation can be traced back to October 2020 where US Customs and Border seized numerous shipments sent from the UK found to contain illicit pharmaceutical drugs. A referral was then made to the City of London Police’s Serious Organised Crime Team (SOCT). By tracing the packages being sent from the UK, SOCT were able to identify Salman Ansari and Waqas Saleem being responsible for the shipment of the drugs and the location they were storing the drugs. Information sharing with US counterparts the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)  led to successful warrants being executed in June 2021 in Vermont, USA, where pharmaceutical drugs were found at a property.

    By tracing the packages being sent from UK airports to JFK, officers were able to identify drop-off locations of the drugs, as well as vehicles used by Salman Ansari and Waqas Saleem. This led City of London Police officers to a storage unit in Wembley.

    Following a focused and in-depth proactive investigation , Salman Ansari and Waqas Saleem were arrested in July 2021and both were arrested within the storage unit for conspiracy to supply controlled drugs and money laundering.

    Contained within the storage unit were a significant quantity of large cardboard boxes which contained thousands of blister packs of what purported to be pharmaceutical grade drugs. These included Tramadol, Zopiclone, Atizolam, Xanax, Nitrazepam, Zolpidem, Pregabalin as well as what was believed to be cannabis resin. A total of 175 exhibits were seized from the storage location.

    At the same time, SOCT officers attended the Ansari home address and arrested Salman’s wife Juhi Ansari for money laundering.

    Financial investigations revealed that Salman Ansari had over 11 bank accounts in his name, with a credit turnover of £1.09m, which vastly outweighed any declared or legitimate income expressed to HMRC. Between March 2018 and September 2021, over 158 transactions were made from Salman Ansari to his wife Juhi Ansari, totalling more than £265,0000 and during the same time frame Juhi Ansari sent over £147,000 to Salman Ansari. It was also established that Salman Ansari sent Waqas Saleem over £7,000 during April 2021 and July 2021.

    Additionally, various complex money laundering techniques were utilised, where funds from illicit sales were made in various cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and USD and transferred to individuals in India. Additionally, Salman sent funds to India approximating to $62,120 (around £46,458) and similarly, Juhi Ansari sent approximately $55,050 (around £41,194) also to India.

    All defendants put in a plea of not guilty, however during the 6 week trial extensive evidence was put to the jury which outlined the global drug network that Ansari and Saleem had orchestrated. The jury were unanimous in the their verdict of guilty on all counts for all three defendants.

    City of London Police advice to the general public

    Unregulated drugs can have a devastating impact on people’s wellbeing, as without thorough testing and regulation by registered drug distributors, they can have potentially fatal results.

    Never buy any drugs or pharmaceutical medicine on the black market or online, you could be putting yourself and others at risk of serious health complications.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –