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WASHINGTON — Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said her agency will need to start taking “extraordinary measures,” or special accounting maneuvers intended to prevent the nation from hitting the debt ceiling , as early as January 14, in a letter sent to congressional leaders Friday afternoon. "Treasury expects to hit the statutory debt ceiling between January 14 and January 23," she wrote in a letter addressed to House and Senate leadership, at which point extraordinary measures would be used to prevent the government from breaching the nation's debt ceiling — which was suspended until Jan. 1, 2025. The department in the past deployed what are known as “extraordinary measures” or accounting maneuvers to keep the government operating. Once those measures run out, the government risks defaulting on its debt unless lawmakers and the president agree to lift the limit on the U.S. government’s ability to borrow. "I respectfully urge Congress to act to protect the full faith and credit of the United States," Yellen said. FILE - U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen speaks during a visit to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) in Vienna, Va., on Jan. 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh, File) The news came after Democratic President Joe Biden signed a bill into law last week that averted a government shutdown but did not include Republican President-elect Donald Trump’s core debt demand to raise or suspend the nation’s debt limit. Congress approved the bill only after a fierce internal debate among Republicans over how to handle Trump's demand. “Anything else is a betrayal of our country,” Trump said in a statement. After a protracted debate in the summer of 2023 over how to fund the government, policymakers crafted the Fiscal Responsibility Act, which included suspending the nation's $31.4 trillion borrowing authority until Jan. 1, 2025. Notably however, Yellen said, on Jan. 2 the debt is projected to temporarily decrease due to a scheduled redemption of nonmarketable securities held by a federal trust fund associated with Medicare payments. As a result, “Treasury does not expect that it will be necessary to start taking extraordinary measures on January 2 to prevent the United States from defaulting on its obligations," she said. The federal debt stands at about $36 trillion — after ballooning across both Republican and Democratic administrations. The spike in inflation after the COVID-19 pandemic pushed up government borrowing costs such that debt service next year will exceed spending on national security. Republicans, who will have full control of the White House, House and Senate in the new year, have big plans to extend Trump's 2017 tax cuts and other priorities but are debating over how to pay for them. Many consumers may remember receiving their first credit card, either years ago in a plain envelope, or months ago from a smartphone app. Still other consumers may remember their newest card, maybe because it's the credit card they're now using exclusively to maximize cash back rewards or airline miles. But for most consumers, there's also a murky in-between where they add, drop and generally accumulate credit cards over time. Over the years, consumers may close some credit card accounts or leave some of their credit cards dormant as a backup form of payment, or perhaps left forgotten in a desk drawer. In the data below, Experian reveals the changes in consumers wallets in recent years. U.S. consumers, on average, carry fewer cards today than they did in 2017, when the typical wallet held 4.2 active credit cards. As of the third quarter (Q3) of 2023, consumers carried 3.9 cards on average. This average is up slightly since the early days of the pandemic, when consumers reduced their average credit card debt and number of accounts as the economy slowed. As Experian revealed earlier this year, credit card balances are still climbing, despite (and partially because of) higher interest rates. And while average balances are increasing, they are spread across fewer accounts than in recent years. Alternative financing—including buy now, pay later plans for purchases—may account for at least some of this discrepancy, as consumers gravitate toward these newer financing methods. In general, residents of higher-population states tend to carry more credit cards than those who live in states with fewer and smaller population centers. Nonetheless, the difference between the states is relatively small. Considering that the national average is around four credit cards per consumer, the four states with the fewest cards per consumer (Alaska, South Dakota, Vermont and Wyoming) aren't appreciably different, with "only" about 3.3 credit cards per consumer. Similarly, the four states on the higher end of the scale where consumers have 4.2 or more credit cards are Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, New Jersey and Rhode Island. The disparity in average credit card counts is more apparent when the population is segmented by age, thanks in part to Generation Z, many of whom have yet to receive their first credit card. The average number of credit cards for these consumers was two, less than half of what older generations keep on hand. The average number of credit cards held by each generation follows the familiar pattern seen in credit card balances, which tend to increase in a consumer's middle age. It's not surprising that the number of credit card accounts follows a similar climb throughout young adulthood and middle age, then drops off in the retirement years. No matter how many credit cards you may have at the moment, keep in mind that the number of accounts has little if any bearing on one's FICO Score. Far more important is how consumers manage those accounts. This is easily demonstrable by quickly stepping through some of the factors that affect your credit scores . Longer credit histories do tend to have a positive effect on a consumer's credit score, but it's not something you can rush. Adhering to on-time payments and managing amounts owed will go far in improving credit scores, even absent a lengthy credit history. While accounts closed in good standing remain on your credit report for 10 years, canceling your oldest credit card account still has the potential to shorten your credit history when it is eventually removed. The impact of its removal depends on any other active credit cards in your credit file. Ultimately, the number of cards a particular individual carries is a personal decision. Justifications can be found for carrying a travel rewards card, a cash back card, a balance transfer card, a card for business transactions and other types of credit cards that other consumers may not have either the need or qualifications for. However, keeping track of numerous credit cards, whether or not a consumer is actively using all of them, can be a mentally taxing exercise. Not only that, credit card fees can add up and dull the benefit of carrying several credit cards. Organized consumers can benefit greatly from a wallet full of specialized cards, but for those seeking a more zen-like financial future, some judicial pruning may be in order. Methodology: The analysis results provided are based on an Experian-created statistically relevant aggregate sampling of our consumer credit database that may include use of the FICO Score 8 version. Different sampling parameters may generate different findings compared with other similar analysis. Analyzed credit data did not contain personal identification information. Metro areas group counties and cities into specific geographic areas for population censuses and compilations of related statistical data. This story was produced by Experian and reviewed and distributed by Stacker Media. Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.Despite a resounding defeat at the hands of Ronald Reagan in 1980, the Democrat forged a new path promoting causes such as electoral probity abroad, social justice and drives to rid the world of medical conditions. His first foreign visit as president was to the UK where then prime minister James Callaghan, as well as the usual visits in London, took his guest to the North East with a visit to Newcastle, Sunderland and Washington – the village bearing the name of the first ever president. Mr Carter delighted crowds in the North East by saying “Howay the lads” during a speech to the assembled throng. He also received a miner’s lamp from 12-year-old Ian McEree in Washington. The 39th US president also carried out more traditional presidential duties, including meetings with western European leaders during his time in London while the Cold War was still ongoing. The practising Baptist continued his globetrotting ways after leaving power, even without Air Force One as his vehicle. He was also part of the Elders, a group of experienced statesmen and women drawn from all corners of the world.super wild ace 。

Delia Smith's onion gravy recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering rich. Whether you're tucking into a traditional Sunday roast, a classic Toad in the Hole, or any number of comfort dishes, this gravy will take it to the next level. Best of all, it's made with just 7 ingredients - most of which you probably have in your kitchen, making it easy to whip up at home. For those who prefer a vegetarian version, Delia’s recipe works beautifully without any meat juices. Just substitute with vegetable stock, and you're all set. If you're cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, be mindful of Worcestershire sauce, as some versions contain anchovies. You can always check the label for a vegetarian-friendly option. Delia’s Complete How to Cook cookbook is packed with tried-and-tested recipes, and this onion gravy is a prime example of how basic ingredients, when treated with care, can create something utterly delicious. Method Start by placing your frying pan over a high heat. Add the oil or fat, and when it’s smoking hot, stir in the chopped onion. Keep the onions moving with a wooden spoon, allowing them to brown and caramelise at the edges. This should take around 20 minutes, but after 10 minutes, lower the heat to medium to ensure they don’t burn. Once the onions are beautifully browned, add the butter to the pan. Stir in the sauce flour quickly, making sure the flour is well absorbed. Then, stir in the mustard powder, followed by the vegetable stock, a little at a time. Keep stirring until the gravy reaches your desired thickness. Add the Worcestershire sauce and season with salt and freshly milled black pepper to taste. Let the gravy simmer gently for about 10 minutes to deepen the flavor. Finally, pour the rich, golden gravy into a warmed serving jug and enjoy. Ingredients 1 large onion, peeled and roughly chopped into large pieces 1 dessertspoon groundnut oil, dripping, or lard 1 small knob of butter 1 dessertspoon Worcestershire sauce (ensure it’s vegetarian if needed) 1 level teaspoon mustard powder 425ml vegetable stock (preferably made with Marigold Swiss vegetable bouillon) 1 rounded dessertspoon sauce flour or plain flour Salt and freshly milled black pepper This delicious onion gravy pairs perfectly with Delia's Toad in the Hole recipe, but feel free to pour it over whatever winter warmers you’re enjoying. It's versatile, flavorful, and guaranteed to be a hit at your next dinner table.

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Like a football off McBride’s helmet, the Cardinals aren’t getting many lucky bounces these daysThe Indianapolis Colts (7-9) are officially eliminated from the playoffs after an embarrassing 45-33 loss to the New York Giants (3-13). This was a poor display by all three phases of the game. The offense moved the ball well and had four touchdown drives but falling flat on their faces after getting in scoring position multiple times led to the Giants jumping out a 21-6 lead in the middle of the second quarter. The Indy defense looked uninspired in the first half. Sloppy tackling and breakdown in coverages set up New York's first three touchdowns of the game. They played much better in the third quarter to help their team get back within reach of winning this game but in typical fashion from Gus Bradley's unit this season, they had a letdown fourth quarter. After the offense made it a 28-26 game, Malik Nabers broke a pair of tackle attempts and took it for a 59-yard touchdown. Once again the offense made it a two-point game but the Giants offense was able to march down and put this out of reach after a pair of key third-down conversions. On third-and-eight, Drew Lock hit Wan'Dale Robinson for a 35-yard gain to get to the Colts nine-yard line. Then on third-and-goal, Lock was able to run around and stumble his way into the endzone to put New York up 42-33. What was baffling about this play was that E.J. Speed and Nick Cross hesitated to go up and tackle Lock short of the endzone. This wasn't just on the offense and defense but the special teams had some letdown moments. Matt Gay had a missed 54-yard field goal attempt that would have made it a 7-6 game and would have eliminated the need for a two-point conversion later in the contest. The biggest killer from this unit was allowing a kickoff return touchdown to start the second half to put Indianapolis down 28-13. Overall this was an inexcusable performance by a team that had a shot at the postseason against the team that had the worst record in the league entering Sunday. Here's everything we know from the Colts' Week 17 loss to the Giants: Colts vs. Giants final score, game recap Week 17 Final Score: Giants 45, Colts 33 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Final IND 3 10 7 13 33 NYG 7 14 7 17 45 Keys to the Game Joe Flacco's first interception on the opening drive of the game. The Colts were in field goal range so they would had at least three points. Looking back, this turnover set the tone for how the day was going to go for Indianapolis. The kickoff return touchdown for the Giants to begin the third quarter. This wiped away the momentum from the Colts' first touchdown to end the first half and put more pressure on the offense and defense. Not taking advantage of the turnover on downs forced by the Indy defense. Gave the offense the ball at New York's 41-yard line but they lost a yard, went three-and-out, and punted for the first time. The score was 28-20 in the third quarter at this moment. Two straight touchdown drives were given up in the fourth quarter by the Colts' defense. Those 14 points were a backbreaker for Indianapolis. Stars of the Game Biggest Takeaway This is a type of loss that will cost people jobs. From the front office to the coaching staff to the players. At this moment, it feels like Shane Steichen will get at least one more season with Anthony Richardson but could Jim Irsay consider moving on if a coach like Mike Vrabel expresses interest? If Steichen is safe, I do believe that means Chris Ballard will stick around to avoid tying a new general manager to a coach in a potential lame-duck situation. But there needs to be a demand that Ballard spends money in free agency, otherwise, it is time to let him go. The scapegoat will be Gus Bradley. His defense didn't show any progress and letdown the team in crucial moments throughout the season. If they move on then that means the entire defense needs to be torn down and get rid of players in favor of ones that will fit the new defensive coordinator's scheme. Whatever is to come after Week 18, there has to be some level of change coming for the Colts. Quick Hits Per James Boyd of The Athletic , the Giants' 45 points are the most they've ever scored against the Colts in their decades-long history of matchups that dates back to 1954. Per Mike Chappell of Fox59 News , this is the longest drought of not making the playoffs for the Colts since 1988-1994. Per Next Gen Stats , over half of Joe Flacco's passing yards (166) and both touchdowns came on passes over 10 air yards. Per Next Gen Stats, Flacco was at his best when not blitzed, completing 21-of-27 passes for 246 yards, both touchdowns and an interception. However, Flacco was also sacked twice when not blitzed, including the game-sealing strip sack late in the fourth quarter. Per Next Gen Stats , Alec Pierce was dominant against zone coverage, recording all 6 of his receptions on 7 targets for 122 yards. His +39.9% catch rate over expected and +2.8 receptions over expected against zone are both the third-most generated by a WR in a single game this season (min. five targets against zone). Injuries Anthony Richardson (back/foot) was inactive. What's next? The Colts will wrap up the season at home against the Jacksonville Jaguars (4-12)

UBA outperforms stocks with 375% returns in five yearsHedge fund manager Scott Bessent is a credible, safe choice for US Treasury secretary -- and one that is likely positive for markets -- observers said Saturday following President-elect Donald Trump's highly anticipated nomination. His selection came after competition for the top economic job spilled into the open last weekend, with the world's richest man Elon Musk throwing his support instead behind Trump's transition team co-chair Howard Lutnick. Lutnick has since been named commerce secretary to lead Trump's tariff and trade agenda, and Bessent's nomination days later appears to be uncontroversial for now. "Scott Bessent is a credible, mainstream pick for Treasury Secretary," said Jason Furman, a professor at Harvard University and former top White House economic adviser. "I could see previous administrations as having chosen him," Furman, a former chair of the Council of Economic Advisers, told AFP. But a key difference is that Bessent, 62, has had to adopt and defend views on topics like tariffs, in a way "he never would have in pursuit of the job for a previous Republican administration." Tariffs are a key part of Trump's economic agenda, with the Republican president-elect vowing sweeping duties on allies and adversaries alike. In an opinion piece published earlier this month on Fox News, Bessent defended the potential use of tariffs as a means to raise revenue for the government, protect strategic US industries and negotiate with trading partners. He would be one of the first openly gay Cabinet officials if confirmed by the Senate, and the first at the helm of the Treasury Department. Jens Nordvig, chief executive of data and analytics firm Exante Data who has worked with Bessent, drew a contrast between his demeanor and that of other Trump supporters. While some Trump allies have a tendency towards "general sweeping statements," Bessent is an "analytical thinker, and he communicates accordingly," Nordvig told AFP. He counts Bessent among his early clients. "I would expect his messaging to be very focused, to get his key points across, without any unnecessary flamboyance or gusto," Nordvig added of the Wall Street veteran. Calling Bessent a "safe choice," Brookings senior fellow in economic studies David Wessel told AFP: "He will be an adult in the room for the Trump administration." Besides Bessent, others seen as top contenders for Treasury chief in recent days included former Federal Reserve governor Kevin Warsh, Apollo Global Management chief executive Marc Rowan, and Tennessee Senator Bill Hagerty. It remains to be seen if Bessent will be a big influence "moderating some of the administration's more aggressive trade policy" or simply be a spokesman, Wessel said. He does not have much experience in dealing with Congress either, and this would be important next year as the Trump administration works to raise the debt ceiling and effort a tax bill to deliver on his economic promises. Bessent would also have to grapple with the country's debt burden, with debt borrowed at much lower interest rates previously and Trump's plans estimated to add trillions over time. In an open letter published Saturday, Nordvig called for "thoughtful leadership" at the Treasury, saying a realistic approach to tax cuts and bond issuance was needed. He also sounded a hopeful note, saying Bessent would work to reduce extreme risks for markets. Krishna Guha, vice chairman of Evercore ISI, believes Bessent's nomination "will be well received by financial markets," given his deep understanding of markets and macro conditions. Guha also warned of the risk of bond yields spiking and "pushing up mortgage rates and tanking the housing market, while also causing stocks to sell off." In his past administration, Trump has viewed the stock market as a gauge of his success. bys/md

The dollar and gold gained Friday amid escalating tensions in the Russia-Ukraine war, while stocks got a boost from data. Bitcoin pushed on further with its march towards the $100,000 mark, as the cryptocurrency benefits from US president-elect Donald Trump's pledge to ease regulation around digital tokens. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request. Get the latest need-to-know information delivered to your inbox as it happens. Our flagship newsletter. Get our front page stories each morning as well as the latest updates each afternoon during the week + more in-depth weekend editions on Saturdays & Sundays.

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HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) has announced funding awards exceeding $372,000 to support 11 key projects aimed at preserving the state’s unique and irreplaceable biodiversity. The grants, administered through the Wild Resource Conservation Program, reflect an ongoing commitment to protecting the Commonwealth’s non-game animals, native plants, and their habitats in the face of challenges such as climate change, habitat loss, and human activity. DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn highlighted the importance of these investments in safeguarding Pennsylvania’s ecological heritage. “The Shapiro Administration is proud to support these vital projects, which align with our mission to preserve Pennsylvania’s wildlife for future generations,” said Dunn. “Protecting our vulnerable species from climate change, human development, and other threats is a priority, and the Wild Resource Conservation Program plays a key role in achieving this goal.” The Wild Resource Conservation Program, established in 1982, serves as a pillar of Pennsylvania’s conservation efforts. Its mission is to fund and implement initiatives that safeguard non-game species, ensure the persistence of native flora, and protect crucial ecosystems. The program awards grants under three distinct categories: species surveys, conservation, and habitat management. This year’s approved projects span a diverse range of initiatives designed to address urgent and emerging threats to biodiversity. The funded efforts include surveys to catalog the state’s fungal diversity, assessments of natural habitats for stream restoration, and projects seeking to improve conditions for Pennsylvania’s endangered and threatened species. While specific details of these projects were not disclosed, the focus underscores the program’s strategic emphasis on fostering resilience in ecosystems statewide. Biodiversity represents the variety of life that exists in Pennsylvania’s ecosystems, including an array of mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles, as well as native plants and fungi integral to the state’s ecosystems. Yet this richness is increasingly under threat due to a combination of human activity and global environmental changes. Protecting this biodiversity involves not only conserving individual species but also safeguarding the ecosystems that support them. Programs like the Wild Resource Conservation Program demonstrate how scientific research and strategic funding work together to assure the health of these systems. By conducting species surveys, scientists gain vital data that shapes conservation strategies. Likewise, habitat restoration and management projects contribute to reversing damage caused by erosion, pollution, and development. Beyond its funding capabilities, the program also depends on public engagement. Pennsylvanians contribute to its success through various avenues, including purchasing Eastern Hellbender license plates, which raise funds for conservation, or donating through the state’s tax check-off program. Such partnerships between the state, conservationists, and the public illustrate a shared responsibility for maintaining Pennsylvania’s natural heritage. The threats facing the Commonwealth’s native species cannot be overstated. From amphibians vulnerable to habitat destruction, such as the Eastern Hellbender—a giant aquatic salamander and Pennsylvania’s official state amphibian—to insect populations critical for pollination, protecting biodiversity requires sustained effort. Climate change, with its potential to alter ecosystems faster than species can adapt, presents additional concern, along with invasive species introductions that disrupt delicate ecological balances. The DCNR funding is part of a broader initiative by Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration to address these challenges by fostering a “green” Pennsylvania capable of preserving its natural assets for future generations. The Wild Resource Conservation Program acts as a central tool in these efforts, strengthening the capacity to address needs that might otherwise be overlooked. This year’s award recipients will begin rolling out their initiatives in the coming months, promoting research and tangible outcomes with the potential to ensure Pennsylvania’s ecosystems thrive for decades. From preserving the habitats of threatened species to exploring lesser-known ecosystems like fungal communities, the projects are a testament to the strength of public sector involvement in conservation. Through initiatives like these, Pennsylvania continues to set a national standard for state-level biodiversity protection, balancing environmental responsibility with long-term economic and social benefits. The awarded projects not only highlight the Commonwealth’s commitment to its natural landscapes but also strengthen the connection between its residents and the environment they call home. For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN .

The acquisition of a Virginia Beach software development company is fueling its growth as a health care technology leader that can leverage artificial intelligence to help transform patient care. DOMA Technologies in Virginia Beach joined forces with Livanta, a Baltimore-area health care tech company, as part of their acquisition earlier this year by Pleasant Land, a Washington, D.C.-based private equity firm. Pleasant Land merged the businesses to create a leading high tech provider of health care quality oversight and clinical assessment services. Financial terms of the acquisition and merger were not disclosed. DOMA founder and CEO Pat Feliciano is staying on as chief executive of the combined company headquartered in Virginia Beach. The organizations collectively have 750 full-time employees, including 250 from DOMA. “We anticipate additional growth here and across our locations going forward,” Feliciano said. “We have additional opportunities here on our current site to continue to expand as needed to support future growth.” DOMA, founded by Feliciano in 2000, is finishing a facility buildout for its previously announced expansion of its London Bridge Road headquarters and anticipates its completion by mid-2025. The company name remains under consideration for a rebranding. As a contractor, DOMA has developed federal health care platforms to ultimately improve patient care and has provided medical record solutions to hospital systems. The merger enables the companies to leverage their artificial intelligence and machine learning-enabled digital technologies to unlock new efficiencies in health care delivery, particularly in quality oversight and developing insights into vast amounts of unstructured health data, Feliciano said. Throughout the past 24 years, and especially within the past several years, the company has been on a strong growth path, seeking opportunities to apply its technology expertise. DOMA recently expanded in Baltimore, Maryland, and Las Vegas, Nevada. “In the year ahead, we anticipate growing our team by a couple hundred members, potentially reaching a total of about 1,000 employees across the organization by the end of 2025,” Feliciano said. “This partnership not only amplifies our ability to deliver value to customers and patients but also opens up meaningful career growth opportunities for our team members.” Committed to advancing quality improvement in public health, DOMA is now positioned to serve more than 32 million Medicare beneficiaries and over 3 million veterans. “As a unified entity, we are now one of the largest quality improvement organizations in federal health care,” Feliciano said. Sandra J. Pennecke, 757-652-5836, sandra.pennecke@pilotonline.comI’m a 50-year-old marketing executive; I purchased a ₹10-lakh health insurance policy 10 years ago. Recently, I’ve been diagnosed with hypertension and require daily medication. Will my policy cover the costs of these medications, or are they considered part of a pre-existing condition since hypertension often develops gradually? If it’s viewed as a pre-existing condition, how long will I have to wait before related expenses are covered? Also, will future complications arising from hypertension, such as cardiac issues, be covered under my policy? Sunita Navigating health challenges is a reality many individuals face, and having comprehensive health insurance is essential for safeguarding your well-being. It is recommended to maintain health insurance coverage of two-three times your income, so based on that you might want to reassess the ₹10-lakh health insurance policy, purchased 10 years ago. This coverage becomes especially critical as health needs typically evolve with age. Regarding your recent diagnosis of hypertension, you can be confident that all hospitalisation expenses related to this condition will be covered under your policy. Since hypertension often develops gradually, it’s important to clarify that because your diagnosis occurred after the policy was issued, it will not be classified as a pre-existing condition in your case. This means you do not have to wait for coverage for future hospitalisations related to hypertension. Moreover, your policy includes provisions for pre-hospitalisation and post-hospitalisation expenses. This means that any necessary medications and consultations related to your hypertension — both before and after hospitalisation — are covered. Specifically, expenses incurred up to a defined number of days prior to your admission, as well as costs for a certain duration after discharge, will be reimbursed according to your policy terms. This can include diagnostic tests, consultations with your healthcare provider and prescribed medications, all within the policy limits. It would be advisable to opt for an Outpatient Department (OPD) cover so that your coverage will be even more comprehensive. OPD benefits allow you to claim expenses for consultations, diagnostic tests and medications without requiring hospitalisation. This feature is particularly advantageous for managing chronic conditions like hypertension, which often necessitate ongoing medical care and regular medication. If you have chosen an OPD cover, routine doctor visits and prescription medications will also be covered, subject to the terms of that rider. Any complications arising from hypertension, such as cardiac conditions, will also be covered under your policy. This comprehensive approach ensures you are protected from the financial burden of medical expenses associated with serious health complications related to hypertension. According to WHO, one in five adults have hypertension. Effectively managing hypertension, however, is crucial for maintaining overall health and reducing the risk of serious complications, such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems, enhancing your overall well-being. A few insurers offer wellness programmes specifically designed to help manage chronic conditions like hypertension. These programmes can provide valuable resources and strategies to empower you to take control of your health. Choosing an insurer that has a long track record of settling claims and also invests in providing you with wellness initiatives can be an important step in proactively managing your condition while ensuring you remain covered for any future medical events. The writer is MD and CEO, Star Health and Allied Insurance Comments