Athome Medical Transcriptionist Salary

At-home medical transcriptionists have greater flexibility in work hours than office transcriptionists.

Medical transcriptionists take recordings from physicians and other healthcare professionals and put them into written form for reference purposes. Because the healthcare industry is growing, the need for medical transcriptionists also is rising, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting an 11 percent increase in the number of jobs nationwide through 2018. Medical transcriptionists often choose to work at home, both for the convenience and the benefit of higher pay.

General Salary Information

The Bureau of Labor Statistics doesn't break down the medical transcriptionist field by at-home versus out-of-home transcriptionists. However, they give salary rates for the field as a whole, which gives a starting point for assessing how much the industry pays at-home workers. Figures provided by the BLS generally are representative of at-home positions, as roughly 75 percent of all medical transcriptionist positions are at-home jobs, according to the Future MT website. The BLS indicates that, based on 2009 information, the average wage for a medical transcriptionist is $33,350, or about $16 per hour. However, pay is anywhere from $22,430 to $45,700. Both the BLS and the Medicalassistantvacancies website report that independent contractors and at-home transcriptionists may earn more because they can work more hours if desired. The BLS points out that, despite receiving higher pay, independent workers have higher expenses, don't receive as many benefits and are at a higher risk of termination.

Experience

Experience plays a role in medical transcriptionist salaries, regardless of whether the transcriptionist works from home or in an office. According to the BLS, those in the 10th percentile of workers, which generally represents entry-level positions, earn $22,430, or $10.78 per hour based on 2009 data. The Medicalassistantvacancies website indicates starting wages of $14, while MedicalTransciptionist.org reports pay between $9 to $12 for entry-level positions. Pay can reach $21.97 after a transcriptionist has been in the field several years, says the BLS. The Future MT website adds that medical transcriptionists who manage others may earn $60,000 to $80,000 annually.

Geography

The best-paying regions for medical transcriptionists, according to the BLS based on 2009 information, include Massachusetts ($42,880), Alabama ($42,640), California ($41,100), Hawaii ($38,950) and New Jersey ($38,750). However, for many at-home medical transcriptionists, region is less of an issue, as they may accept jobs from companies across the nation if they are independent contractors.

Certification

As the BLS notes, employers prefer medical transcriptionists who have completed training and who hold a certification in medical transcription. Pay for those with a certification and/or degree in medical transcription is higher than for those who do not hold such degrees or certifications. As of 2011, medical transcriptionists may receive either the Registered Medical Transcriptionist (RMT) or Certified Medical Transcriptionist (CMT) designation. Although these certifications require additional training and continuing education, they are an uncomplicated way to boost earnings.

Tags: medical transcriptionists, based 2009, 2009 information, based 2009 information, Bureau Labor

Financial Help For Poor Individuals

When you have little income, you may need to seek financial assistance from government programs to get by. Depending on your individual situation, you may qualify for assistance in the form of cash benefits, help with food and help paying for certain medical treatments.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families

If you have a family and very low income, you may be able to qualify for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. You can get cash benefits for a limited amount of time until you can improve your financial situation. This program also helps individuals find jobs and train for employment in the future. TANF also provides a way for children in low-income families to be cared for.

Help With Food

When you have little income, you may also be able to qualify for assistance obtaining food. You could access the food stamps program administered in your state. With this program, you can get a card that can be used to purchase food at most stores. The program restricts the types of food that you can purchase. The amount of good you can buy will depends on how big your family is and your financial situation.

Energy Assistance

In many areas, you may also be able to qualify for energy assistance. With these programs, you can get help paying electric and gas bills. To qualify, you must meet strict income guidelines. Some programs may also put limits on how much you can have in assets. The elderly and disabled generally have the best chances of getting involved with these programs. Many areas have limited funds to distribute.

Medical Help

Those who have limited financial means can also gain access to help with medical treatment. One program that helps with this need is Medicaid. To qualify, you have to meet income guidelines as well as specific guidelines about personal assets. If you qualify, you can get most of your medical needs paid for, including doctor visits and hospitalization. If you do not qualify for Medicaid, you may be able to obtain free or inexpensive health care from local health departments.

Tags: able qualify, also able, also able qualify, Assistance Needy, Assistance Needy Families

Astronaut Job Description & Qualifications

Astronaut Job Description & Qualifications

Any United States citizen can apply to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to become an astronaut candidate. After training and evaluation, civilian candidates that are selected become permanent federal employees and must stay with NASA for at least five years.

Responsibilities

Astronauts are involved in all aspects of assembly and operation of the International Space Station, including extravehicular activities, robotics operations, experiment operations and on-board maintenance. Missions last from three to six months; training takes two to three years.

Minimum Qualifications

A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is required - in engineering, biological science, physical science or mathematics. Three years of related professional experience is also necessary. An advanced degree can be substituted for experience. Teaching experience, at any level, qualifies.

Pilots

Pilot candidates must have logged at least 1,000 hours in command of jet aircraft.

Physical Requirements

Applicants must pass the NASA long-duration space-flight physical. This requires visual acuity, correctable to 20/20; blood pressure no higher than 140/90; and height, between 5 feet, 2 inches and 6 feet, 3 inches.

Selection Process

A week of interviews, orientation and a complete medical evaluation precede selection. Background investigations of successful candidates are conducted.

General Program Requirements

Selected candidates undergo training and evaluation for about two years. This includes military water-survival training and SCUBA certification.

Tags: Astronaut Description, Astronaut Description Qualifications, Description Qualifications, feet inches, training evaluation

Remedy For Breast Pain After Radiation

Surgical procedures for breast cancer patients include lumpectomies, partial mastectomies, segmented mastectomies and quadrantectomies. Radiation therapy after these procedures destroy cancer cells left in breast tissue. Breastcancer.org says breast pain after radiation occurs because of nerve irritation, swelling around scar tissue, sore skin, rubbing against clothing or skin, and infection. A few simple remedies for breast pain can help make you feel more comfortable. Pain typically subsides after a year or two.

Massage Lotion

Massage a moisturizing lotion or cream a few minutes a day to redistribute breast fluids. This decreases swelling and breast tenderness. Radiation oncologists and nurses recommend creams approved for use after radiation treatments. Imaginis-The Breast Cancer Resource website says that lotions and powders not approved to relieve breast pain after radiation are not recommended and oils can cause serious radiation burns. Perfumes, cosmetics, after-shave lotion and deodorants irritate skin. The Radiological Society of North America recommends using cornstarch instead of deodorant.

Avoid Water Temperature Extremes

Use lukewarm water when bathing after radiation therapy. Keeping skin cleans reduces the chance of developing an infection caused by radiation treatments. Use mild soaps free of additives and perfumes. Place cold compresses on breast to reduce pain instead of ice packs. Ice packs, like hot water, cause skin damage.

Avoid Sun

Stay out of the sun as much as possible to avoid breast pain. Radiation treatments make skin sensitive, so sun damage causes additional pain. Use SPF 30 sunscreen if you have to go outside, reapplying as needed until you go back indoors. Wear clothes made of sun-protection materials.

Wear Loose Clothing

Wear clothing made of loose cotton or other breathable material to avoid breast irritation. Do not wear bras that are too tight because this causes breast swelling and tenderness. Drs. Lydia Komarnicky and Marisa Weiss of Breastcancer.org recommend increasing bra size if breast pain occurs and taking bras off if breasts feel heavy or tender. The doctors say that a bra is too tight if you see skin indentations where treatment occurred after removing it. Go braless as often as possible.

Sleep on Your Back

Sleep on your back to help fluid redistribute in the breast. Sleeping on your side or stomach causes fluid buildup whereas sleeping on your back helps fluid drain away from breast tissue. You will feel less breast pain in the morning. Gravity causes fluid buildup by the end of the day. Relax on your back whenever possible to reduce radiation-related breast pain.

Tags: breast pain, after radiation, your back, avoid breast, breast pain, breast pain after, breast tissue

Mastectomy Risks

A mastectomy can be performed to prevent breast cancer in women who are at high risk.

According to the Mayo Clinic, a mastectomy is a type of surgery to treat or prevent breast cancer by removing some or all of the breast tissue.

Side Effects Requiring Medical Attention

Some side effects from a mastectomy require a doctor's intervention. The incision site can become infected, according to BreastCancer.org; the infection is usually easily treated if caught in time. The wound might heal slowly because the blood vessels to the breast are cut, and the decreased blood flow can cause the skin to wither or scab. A surgeon can trim the extra skin, and it is not an uncommon problem. Fluid also might collect under the scar; a doctor can remove some of it to relieve discomfort.

Side Effects Not Requiring Medical Attention

Some other common side effects of a mastectomy do not require a doctor's intervention. One such side effect is numbness around the incision site; this should eventually pass. The incision site also might be sensitive to touch after surgery, as the nerve endings grow back. This, too, should pass. Finally, as is common with any incision, scar tissue might form. This can be lumpy or painful. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.

Psychological Risks

According to the Mayo Clinic, a mastectomy can pose more than just physical risks; there are psychological ramifications to consider as well. It can be a difficult process to adjust to a new breast shape, or a body without a breast. A woman might mourn the loss and find it difficult to deal with her changed sexuality.

Tags: incision site, According Mayo, According Mayo Clinic, also might, Attention Some

Diy Fair Booths

A simple fair booth can be made from PVC pipe.

Maximize time and space with a low-cost and lightweight fair booth made from PVC. Readily available at any hardware retailer, PVC pipe is easy to assemble with prefabricated connectors that require no tools to construct. A PVC booth frame can be constructed in minutes, allowing users to focus their time and energy inside the booth without accounting for cumbersome set-up and take-down. The removable covering makes the basic PVC frame very versatile.

Instructions

1. Fit a T connector onto the ends of a five-foot-long pipe segment. The middle connector opening should face upward.

2. Push a two-inch piece of pipe into the remaining flat opening of the T connectors.

3. Insert a 45 degree elbow connector onto the end of the two-inch pieces. The elbows should angle toward you.

4. Place a two-and-a-half foot pipe segment into the elbow connector openings. Place a T connector on the end, facing upward.

5. Repeat steps 1-4 to create an identical frame segment.

6. Insert the eight-foot pipes into each upward T connector opening of the first frame segment.

7. Fit the second frame segment over those pipes. The second frame segment should parallel the lower assembly.

8. Stretch fabric over the frame panels, using snap clamps to hold the fabric in place. Choose whatever fabric you desire for a background.

9. Hang signs and promotional materials on the fabric by placing adhesive Velcro strips on the fabric and promotional material.

10. Place a table against the backdrop. Use a complementary colored tablecloth over the table.

Tags: frame segment, booth made, booth made from, connector onto, connector opening, elbow connector

Army Specialties That Will Convert Best To Civilian Jobs

The military can provide professional training and experience that can be put to use in the civilian world. The Army has many jobs that nearly exactly mirror their civilian counterparts. The experience gained will greatly assist a veteran in landing a job over a less experienced entry-level candidate. Listed below are a few jobs that provide the training necessary to go directly to work in a civilian or local government position.

Military Police

Soldiers who join the ranks of the military police gain experience in interrogating suspects, making arrests, conducting investigations and general police procedures. Police departments around the country place a priority on hiring former military personnel. These agencies are looking for recruits who demonstrate self-discipline, a good work ethic and good decision-making skills. Those with military police backgrounds gain an advantage when it comes to the testing and training needed to excel in these positions.

Public Affairs Broadcast Specialist

Reporting, writing, filming and broadcasting news is the main focus of a public affairs broadcast specialist. Soldiers cover breaking news on military affairs around the world and bring local news and events to soldiers at home. If you have an interest in journalism and would like to receive the necessary skills to become a civilian news reporter, anchorman or newspaper writer, this may be the Army career to get you there.

Plumber

With hundreds of buildings on every Army post, from barracks to brigade headquarters, there is a need for skilled plumbers to keep the water flowing. The main duties of an Army plumber are the installation and maintenance of pipe systems for steam, gas, waste and water. The highly detailed training an Army plumber receives prepares soldiers for civilian jobs in both the plumbing and heating/air conditioning fields. Opportunity exists for soldiers with these skills to join a company right away or to start their own business.

Radiology Specialist

Radiology specialists are responsible for taking X-rays for interpretation by doctors in the case of illness and injury. These specialists learn use and maintain X-ray equipment and scan different portions of the body. This field equates to the position of X-ray technician, which is found in hospitals and doctor offices. The Army website www.cool.army.mil/68p.htm shows what civilian certificates can be earned using your Army training as a radiology specialist.

Information Technology Specialist

IT specialists are responsible for keeping the Army's communication systems running. Major responsibilities include configuring and modifying hardware and software, monitoring and correcting network errors and maintaining system security. There are few civilian businesses that don't employ information technology specialists. Banks, hospitals and police departments are in need of these skilled workers.

Tags: Army plumber, jobs that, specialists responsible

Take A Readiness Test

A confident and calm attitude will help your child excel on his readiness test.

Readiness tests are given to students entering kindergarten or first grade. Readiness tests assess a child's ability to complete basic tasks like dressing himself and tying his shoes. They also test your child's motor skills and knowledge of basic information about shapes, colors, numbers and the alphabet. Performance on readiness tests indicates whether children are ready to enter a standard classroom or need to join an intermediate program such as pre-first grade. Help your children prepare for readiness tests by giving them some pointers before the big day.

Instructions

1. Advise them to pay attention and take their time. Readiness tests are often administered orally -- at least for part of the test. Tell them that if they don't understand a question, then ask the teacher to say it again or to explain it differently.

2. Remind them to speak clearly. They also need to be careful when drawing and cutting. Readiness is partially determined by your ability to express yourself effectively, such as by the ability to color within lines and write and cut neatly.

3. Tell them to answer questions truthfully. The teacher who administers the test is interested in honest answers, not silly ones. Quiz them about colors and shapes and have them write their name and as many numbers as they can.

4. For physical tasks, remind them to show the teacher how well they can do when it comes to hopping, skipping, jumping and tying their shoes. Most importantly, tell them to listen and follow instructions.

Tags: readiness tests, Readiness tests, They also, your child

Dna Testing For Family History

DNA can be a tool for genealogy

DNA, the genetic code of all life, is passed down from parents to their children. DNA can be used to learn things about family history.

Types

Mitochondrial DNA testing looks at DNA from the mitochondria, which is only passed along the maternal line. Y-chromosome testing looks at Y-chromosome DNA, which is only passed on from father to son. Nuclear DNA testing looks at snips of DNA from the nucleus of a cell.

Companies

Family history DNA services are available through many companies, including Oxford Ancestors and Family Tree DNA.

Process

To get your DNA tested, you must first order a kit from the company, then take a sample of your DNA using a cheek swab. After submitting the sample to the company, you'll receive results back in a few weeks.

Results

Family history DNA testing mostly involves finding information about the distant past, including distant ancestors' homelands and human migration patterns. It can also be used to compare your DNA with others of the same surname to confirm if you are related.

Limitations

Genealogical family history research cannot tell you about a specific ancestor, only about a general family line. It is best used in conjunction with other forms of family history research.

Tags: testing looks, family history research, history research, only passed, which only

Make A Purple Bruise Go Away Faster

Apply an ice or a cold pack to injuries to reduce bruising.

Bruises form when a small amount of blood leaks into the tissues under the skin, usually as the result of trauma. Bruises typically change in color from red to purple to yellow to brown over the course of one to four weeks, before disappearing on their own. However, some faint discoloration may last for months, especially with severe bruising. Applying correct first aid following an injury aids the healing process, and is your best chance of minimizing purple bruising. Controversy remains over whether certain natural ingredients, most notably Arnica and vitamin K, are effective at fading dark bruises when applied topically.

Instructions

First Aid

1. Wash the wound with clean water to prevent infection. Skip this step if the skin is not broken.

2. Wrap an elastic bandage around the injured part to help prevent blood vessels from leaking.

3. Apply an ice or a cold pack to the affected body area to reduce swelling.

4. Apply pressure and keep the ice pack on for at least 20 minutes.

5. Keep the injured area elevated to reduce blood flow.

6. Reapply the ice pack (as per steps 3 and 4) on and off for 24 hours following the injury.

7. Replace the ice pack with a heat pack or electric head pad after 24 hours. Apply the heat pack for 20 minutes on and off over the course of the next 24 hours.

8. Keep the bruised area rested.

Topical Arnica and Vitamin K

9. Buy a cream or gel containing Arnica montana or vitamin K.

10. Rub a thin layer of the product onto the bruise.

11. Reapply twice a day or as directed by the manufacturer until the bruise fades.

Tags: Apply cold, Apply cold pack, cold pack, following injury, heat pack

Xrays & Cat Scans

To diagnose a broken ankle, an x-ray may be required.

When someone suffers an internal injury, physicians may perform a medical imaging test to determine a diagnosis and treatment plan. X-rays and CT (sometimes pronounced as "cat") scans are two of these tests.

X-Rays

An X-ray is created by electromagnetic radiation forming an image on film. Bones absorb the most radiation, causing them to appear white on the film. Fat and soft tissue absorb some radiation, appearing gray, and air absorbs the least amount, so those areas appear black.

CT Scans

Computed tomography scans, or CT scans, also use electromagnetic radiation to create images but require specialized equipment to form a cross-sectional image of a patient's body. Contrast dye is needed to create these images, which are obtained when the patient lies on a table that passes through an x-ray machine.

Radiation Exposure

X-rays create minimal radiation exposure. With CT scans, depending on the lifetime number of exams performed and radiation dose, patients may develop other health problems such as cancer. In February 2010, the FDA announced an initiative to reduce unnecessary radiation exposure from imaging tests such as CT scans.

Tags: electromagnetic radiation

Make Pumpkin Soup

Pumpkin soup is a hearty addition to any autumn meal, and an especially nice first course for Thanksgiving dinner. It's also low-fat. Yields about 8 cups. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Cut the pumpkin in half. Scoop out and discard the fiber and seeds.

2. Cut the pumpkin into large pieces.

3. Peel the pumpkin pieces with a vegetable peeler, and trim any remaining fiber so that all you have left is pumpkin flesh.

4. Cut the flesh into 1-inch pieces.

5. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and saute, stirring often, until softened.

6. Add pumpkin, turnips, parsnip and chicken broth to saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat.

7. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover and simmer one hour.

8. Remove soup from heat and cool about 15 minutes.

9. Strain the vegetables from the soup and put in a food processor fitted with a metal chopping blade. Add 1 1/2 c. broth and process until smooth.

10. Add the rest of the broth and process again. (If your food processor isn't big enough, do this in batches.)

11. Rinse the saucepan and put the pureed soup in it. Stir in the cream and cook over medium heat, stirring, until heated through.

12. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve.

Tags: broth process, food processor

Master Gardeners' Classroom Programs In San Antonio

Master Gardeners combine knowledge and technique to create colorful landscapes.

Master Gardener programs took off in the 1970s, when people became interested in growing their own food and tending to their own Edens. Today, courses are offered in every U.S. state and county through the cooperative learning extensions of local land-grant universities. The AgriLife Extension of the Texas A&M University system is responsible for conducting Master Gardener courses in Bexar County, Texas, which includes San Antonio.

AgriLife Extension

Each state manages a Master Gardener program, but hours and cost of training vary from region to region. Bexar County Master Gardener courses take place during the spring, summer and fall. The classes are advertised through the local media as well as on the AgriLife website. An individual must apply and be accepted into the program. Texas Master Gardeners complete at least 50 hours of training by horticulturists and university agents. Among the many subjects San Antonio master gardeners in training learn are xeriscaping, soil composting, urban forestry and pest management. Master Gardeners are generalists, although many are drawn to master gardening through an interest in a specific subject area. Master Gardeners are re-certified yearly through six hours of training and must commit to volunteering in the community.

San Antonio Botanical Gardens

Certified Master Gardeners are committed to public education and volunteerism. If you are interested in gardening but lack the time or interest to provide general gardening advice to the public, consider taking courses through the San Antonio Botanical Gardens, which offers nature trail walks with certified Master Gardeners. Adult education courses include landscaping, water management and arborist certification. Children's programs and summer day camps are also offered.

San Antonio Garden Center, Inc.

The San Antonio Garden Center offers free public lectures on a variety of gardening issues and projects. The courses run monthly from September through May. The center's Schools of Instruction in Floral Design and Flower Show Judging offer longer courses and educational opportunities.

Tags: Master Gardeners, Master Gardener, AgriLife Extension, Antonio Botanical, Antonio Botanical Gardens

What Does An Hsa Cover

With health care costs steadily rising, many Americans seek alternative ways to pay for their medical care. In 2003, the federal government passed a new law allowing people whose insurance saddled them with high deductibles to set aside tax-deferred funds for medical expenses in Health Savings Accounts. HSAs may make quality health care services accessible to people who cannot afford insurance coverage with high premiums and lower deductibles. The HSA program allows participants to withdraw funds to pay for qualified medical expenses.

Definition

An HSA is a type of supplemental savings account for people whose health insurance has a high yearly deductible. Similar to an IRA or other type of retirement investment, funds you invest in an HSA accrue interest and sit in the account unused until you require them. The difference is that until you reach retirement age, you can only withdraw funds from an HSA to pay for qualified medical expenses. In this way, HSAs are meant to offset the high cost of medical coverage for Americans with high insurance premiums and low health care coverage levels.

Eligible Coverage for Services

HSAs cover many different kinds of medical services and products. You can use your HSA funds to pay for all expenses related to inpatient and outpatient hospitalizations, medically-necessary hospice and rehabilitative care, office visits to medical specialists and visits to your primary care provider. An HSA also covers yearly checkups, many kinds of health screenings and other preventative medical expenses, such as vaccinations. Dental, vision and chiropractic services, as well as some forms of alternative medicine expenses such as acupuncture, are also eligible for coverage. If you have a disability that requires assistive equipment, such as a wheelchair, orthopedic shoes, medically-prescribed prosthetics, physical braces or hearing aids, you can use your HSA funds to pay for those devices as well. Prenatal, perinatal, neonatal and postnatal services are eligible for coverage for both the pregnant woman and her newborn.

Eligible Coverage for Medication

Your HSA covers all medications prescribed by a licensed medical professional. This includes preventative drug therapies, prescription drugs and vitamins, as long as you purchase them with a doctor's prescription. In addition to all prescription medication, an HSA's funds cover many over-the-counter medications, such as antacids, cold and flu medications, topical allergy treatments and over-the-counter pain relievers.

Non-eligible Services and Medications

HSA funds do not cover all expenses related to the insured person's health and well-being. You cannot use HSA funds to pay for any therapy, treatment or health programs you receive outside of a medically-approved facility by non-medical professionals. For example, HSA funds will not cover private school tuition for a special needs child nor will it cover the transportation expenses associated with attending that school. Membership fees for a fitness club or gym are ineligible for coverage as is the purchase of a swimming pool or personal exercise equipment. You may not use HSA funds to purchase any medication for which you do not have a medical prescription. This includes non-prescribed dietary supplements, personal cosmetic products and weight loss supplements. HSAs do not cover any type of elective cosmetic surgery, though it may cover reconstructive cosmetic surgery. All services and medications for which you intend to use your HSA funds must be legal to purchase, own and use.

Tags: medical expenses, health care, with high, your funds, cosmetic surgery, cover many, eligible coverage

Create A Line Item Budget

Create a Line Item Budget

Line item budgets help businesses, entrepreneurs and heads of households to track and monitor available funds, revenues and expenses by type. The accounting tool can be created to reflect year over year differences between same expenditure types or to reflect the difference between budget and expenses for a single year. You can also use the accounting tool to calculate and monitor accrued or projected expenses.

Instructions

1. Open a new spreadsheet using a software program like Microsoft Excel. At the top of the spreadsheet type the field headings. In field, column A and row 1 (A1), type "Expense Type." In field B1, type "Current Spend." In field C1, type "Prior Year Spend." In field D1, type "Current Year Budget." In field E1, type "Remaining Spend for Current Year," and in field F1 type "Current Year vs. Prior Year."

2. Under the "Expense Type" field and on separate rows, list each type of expense you expect to spend money on for the year. Typical line item expense types include "salary," "other payroll expenses," (which includes taxes and health insurance payments) "travel and entertainment," "office supplies," "training," and "marketing and promotion." List the items one after the other on separate rows starting at column A and row 2 (A2) down to A7 or down to however many separate line items you will have expenses for.

3. Define limits. Tab over to field D1, "Current Year Budget." Beginning with field D2, populate this column with the maximum spend allowed for each "Expense Type." For example, for the "Salary" expense type, for three employees who earn $50,000 a year each, you would fill in a budget total of $150,000. Go down the spreadsheet column and fill in the total year budget for each line item expense type.

4. Fill in prior year spend. Tab over to field C1, "Prior Year Spend." Under this column, fill in the total amount of money spent for each expense type for the previous year starting at field C2.

5. At the start of each month, populate the exact amount of money you spent for each line item expense type. Update the total current spend, starting at field B2, for the various expense types each month throughout the year. For example, for the "Salary" expense type in January, you would populate $12,500. In January if you spent $150 on copy paper, $75 on stamps and $280 on printer toner, the total current spend for "Office Supplies" would be $505.

6. Monitor current spend against set budgets. Build a formula into field E2 under "Remaining Spend for the Year" to automatically subtract the "Current Spend," field B2, from the "Current Year Budget," field D2. If you are using Microsoft Excel to create your budget spreadsheet, the formula will look like this: "=D2-B2". Copy and paste this formula down column E until you have filled the formula in for all expense types on the spreadsheet.

7. Create a formula in field F2, "Current Year Spend vs. Prior Year Spend," to track how you are managing your current year budget, field B2, compared to how well you managed your prior year's budget, field C2. If you are using Microsoft Excel, the formula will look like this: "=C2-B2". Copy and paste this formula down column F until you have filled the formula in for all expense types on the spreadsheet

Tags: Current Year, field type, expense types, Prior Year, Year Spend, Current Year Budget, expense type

California Radiologic Technology

Radiologic technology is a field of science that employs the manipulation of radioactive materials.

Radioactive materials, though carcinogenic, have proven valuable in science, particularly in medicine. Because of the danger posed by radioactive materials and equipment, the state of California regulates their use, as well as the professions that employ such technology.

California Department of Public Health

The California Department of Public Health's Radiologic Health Branch regulates the use of radioactive materials. The agency regulates licensing of radioactive materials, registration of X-ray machines, certification of professionals, inspection of facilities, investigation of radioactive accidents and monitoring of the environment.

California Society of Radiologic Technologists

The California Society of Radiologic Technologists is a professional organization that provides guidance and support to individuals working in radiology fields. The organization offers regulatory guidance, safety guidance and continuing education programs.

Professions

California radiologic technologists can be found in a number of professions but are largely found in the medical community. Most radiographers hold at least an associate degree and certification, as well as state licensure. Radiographers perform various imaging and diagnostic exams, including X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging and computer tomography.

Tags: California Department, California Department Public, California Society, California Society Radiologic, Department Public

Donate Personal Items To Charity In South Florida

Donating to charity is a good way to clear out unwanted items and give them to people in need.

Donating personal items is a great way to get rid of unwanted things around the house and contribute to a charity in your area. South Florida is home to charities such as ASAP Homeless in St. Petersburg, Feeding South Florida and the Paws 4 You Animal Rescue in Miami. Whether you have clothing, toiletries, pet toys or office supplies, with a little research, you can find the perfect place to donate your personal items where they're most needed.

Instructions

1. Determine the types of personal items you have to donate. Many charities publish lists of what they are specifically in need of. The types of items you can offer will help you choose the right charity for your donation.

2. If you have primarily household goods, toiletries, clothing or office supplies, consider donating to a homeless shelter or women's shelter in South Florida. Charities such as ASAP Homeless in St. Petersburg, the Miami Rescue Mission and the Sulzbacher Center in Jacksonville all accept donations of items.

3. If you have food or kitchen appliances to donate, look into food banks and soup kitchens. In South Florida, Feeding South Florida, Stop Hunger Now in Miami and the Treasure Coast Food Bank in Fort Pierce all accept donations of food and some kitchen items.

4. If you have any animal related items such as food or toys, many animal rescue organizations would appreciate the donations. Organizations such as Paws 4 You in Miami, Animal Aid in Boca Raton and the Tri-County Humane Society serving Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties all take donations of pet supplies.

5. Check with the charity you chose to donate to for specific pick-up times or drop-off locations.

Tags: South Florida, items have, personal items, accept donations, ASAP Homeless

Fundraising Ideas For Breast Cancer Walk

Fund-raising ideas for breast cancer walk participants can be clever and flexible.

Fund-raising ideas for breast cancer walk participants can be executed using local resources and talent. Identify opportunities to raise money using all aspects of your position in the main event. Develop corporate partnerships that can help reduce the labor necessary to meet large fund-raising goals.

Celebrity Endorsements

Invite a local celebrity to provide autographed photos or related gifts that can be given as rewards during your fund-raising efforts. Host a pink party where men and women can socialize and donate money to your breast cancer walk. Ask your celebrity sponsor to attend the fund-raising party and announce all rewards that will be available to guests responsible for the largest donations. Celebrity endorsements can be achieved without direct Hollywood connections. Contact local radio personalities, television reporters, athletes, fashion models or related professionals to make your fund-raising initiative a success.

Milestone Incentives

Ask a local business owner to match the amount of money you raise for the breast cancer walk. The business owner would be required to double your donation only if you complete a specific set of miles during the breast cancer walk. Offer to document your journey with photos for every mile that you complete if necessary. You can also partner with several business owners who will sponsor miles by making cash donations toward your fund-raising goal. Milestone incentives allow you to capitalize on your footsteps.

T-Shirt Placements

Sell tribute and logo placements on the T-shirt that you will wear during the walk. You can charge a flat rate for each placement, various fees for different sections of your T-shirt, $1 per word or a combination of these fund-raising methods. Allow individual supporters to write their tribute messages using permanent markers. Attach logos for local businesses that donate money to the breast cancer walk on your T-shirt using fabric glue. Offer to display photos of women affected by breast cancer on your shirt as an additional fund-raising initiative. T-shirt placements turn you into a walking billboard to help find a cure for this disease.

Tags: breast cancer, cancer walk, breast cancer walk, your fund-raising, breast cancer walk

High School Forensic Science Courses

Forensic science does not refer to a specific branch of science but rather to the use of science as part of the legal system. Forensic scientists can work on crime scenes collecting clues, in labs analyzing evidence or as consults for a legal team attempting to prosecute or defend a suspect. If you are interested in pursuing forensic science as a career, you can start preparing by taking some appropriate high school classes.

Biology

Biology will give you a firm grasp on the science behind living organisms. Cell structure and microbiology as well as anatomy and basic biological composition are important bits of background knowledge for the forensic scientist. Biology also serves as the starting grounds for the study of DNA, which is a vastly important aspect of most legal cases that seek out a forensic scientist.

Chemistry

Much of your work as a forensic scientist will be spent in a lab working with a wide variety of chemicals. Understanding how chemicals react to one another and the basics of working safely and efficiently in a lab will help ensure you are prepared for the rigors of both college study and the modern forensic science workplace. Many forensic science labs work with a constant backlog, meaning the stronger you are in the lab, the better your odds for success.

English

Forensic scientists spend a lot of time analyzing evidence and generating reports to be used in a court setting. In addition to being strong in the lab and gifted with science, you will need to develop powerful writing skills. Your ability to discuss the results of complex experiments in both an authoritative and easy to understand manner will have a large impact on your success both in the courtroom and in finding a job. You do not have to be an incredibly talented writer, but you should be able to put your thoughts on paper in a clear and organized fashion.

Mathematics

A good forensic scientist must be a skilled lab technician in addition to a sharp observer of human behavior and a master of scientific concepts. One of the most important aspects of working in a lab is conducting calculations for the various chemical compounds and tests you will work on each day. It is important to have a firm grasp of basic math as well as algebra and geometry if you want to maximize your potential in the laboratory and limit your mistakes.

Statistics

Forensic scientists use statistics to make predictions, generalizations or draw conclusions from large sets of available data. Because you will likely spend a great deal of time analyzing and tracking data, it is important to have a strong grasp of statistics. The ability to make spreadsheets, charts and graphs and to measure each case's data against all other known cases is critical in understanding the events of a particular crime. A simple computer science course should help introduce you to some statistics basics if your high school does not offer a specific class.

Physics

Physics is a math-heavy area of study that scientists use to find order in the natural world. Physics is also an important part of determining the events at a crime scene. Using physics to determine directionality of bullets, the speed of a moving vehicle, or the directionality of blood spatter can help clarify the events of a difficult to solve case. It is worth noting that not all forensic scientists work crime scenes, but if you are interested in going on-site, some basic physics courses at the high school level certainly won't hurt.

Tags: forensic scientist, forensic science, Forensic scientists, analyzing evidence, crime scenes

Brachytherapy Pros & Cons

Brachytherapy Pros & Cons

Brachytherapy is an outpatient procedure to address different types of cancer. It serves as an alternative treatment to surgical removal of cancer-ridden body parts and lessens the risk of long-term side effects. There are two different kinds of Brachytherapy: permanent, when the seeds stay in the body, and temporary, when the seeds are placed in the body but then removed.

What Types of Cancer Does Brachytherapy Treat?

Brachytherapy can treat a number of cancers and diseases, including: endometrial, prostate, cervical, as well as coronary and artery disease. Temporary Brachytherapy is most often used for gynecologic diseases.

How Does It Work?

High-energy radioactive seeds are placed carefully inside cancerous tissue (implant radiation) so that it can attack the cancer by damaging the DNA of the cancerous cells. The radiation treatment may be injected, swallowed or implanted directly into the tumor. Intracavitary treatment is when the "seeds" are placed inside the body cavities. When an interstitial treatment is done, the implants are placed directly into the tumor. And when an unsealed internal radiation therapy is done, medication that contains the radioactive material is injected into the body cavity or into a vein. The healthy cells in the body are able to repair themselves or resist any damage that the radiation may cause but the unhealthy cells cannot.

Pros

There are advantages to doing Brachytherapy. You will need only one treatment of Brachytherapy, and there is minimal discomfort after the procedure. It is also an outpatient procedure, so it will not affect your daily life activities. Compared to the removal of a cancerous body part, Brachytherapy is a minor surgical procedure and poses fewer long-term side effects than other extreme treatments.

Cons(iderations)

With any procedure, there are risks or disadvantages. There is a chance that a radioactive "seed" accidentally escapes and damages healthy tissue. Infection is possible, as with all surgical procedures. If a mistake occurs, it cannot be treated with surgery. Since the prostate, for instance, is not removed during Brachytherapy, there is a chance that the tumor will grow back. This treatment is expensive. It also is "high tech," so you want to get an experienced doctor who has done this procedure many times before.

Effectiveness

According to Chicago Prostate Cancer Center, Brachytherapy has gained popularity as a primary treatment for cancer because it has shown survival statistics "essentially equal to surgery and is minimally invasive."

Tags: seeds placed, when seeds, Brachytherapy Pros, Brachytherapy Pros Cons, Brachytherapy there, chance that

Are Mammograms Preventative

A mammogram is the process of using an X-ray to visualize and to examine breasts for malignant--or cancerous--tumors. Screening via mammogram does not prevent breast cancer, but it can potentially reduce breast cancer-related mortality due to early detection.

Effects

Mammograms only enable early detection of breast cancer. In that sense, mammogram has no preventive effects against the disease. However, early detection can lead to early treatment of breast cancer.

According to the American Cancer Society, patients with breast cancer detected by mammogram in the early stages have a 90 to 95 percent cure rate. On the other hand, patients diagnosed with breast cancer at late stage (e.g. Stage IV) have low survival rates. For instance, the five-year survival rate for patients diagnosed with Stage IV breast cancer is 20 percent, according to the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database.

Benefits

Annual screening by mammogram has the potential to reduce breast cancer mortality by 40 to 50 percent, according to the American Cancer Society.

Considerations

A study published in "Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention" indicates radiologic breast density, a measure of how white the breasts appear on a mammogram, is a strong risk factor for breast cancer.

Expert Insight

USMedicine.com reported in November 2009 that the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, or USPSTF, recommended the interval between two consecutive mammograms to be two years instead of one, which was its earlier recommendation. The USPSTF argued that biennial mammogram screening delivers similar health benefits in comparison to annual mammography.

Compliance

About 70 percent of American women comply with screening by mammogram, according to the American Cancer Society.

Tags: breast cancer, American Cancer, American Cancer Society, Cancer Society, early detection

Great First Cadette Girl Scout Meeting Ideas

Cadettes should become acquainted with one another at their first meeting.

Girl Scout Cadette troops exist to help girls build self-esteem and participate in service to their communities. As Cadettes, the Scouts also connect with one another and make friends. Cadette troops are made up of girls in grades six through eight. During the first meeting, the girls should be involved in activities to get to know one another.

Introductory Activities

The first meeting should have an activity that helps the Cadettes become comfortable with one another and the troop leadership. For example, have the Cadettes play friendship Bingo, filling the squares with the names of troop members, or complete a quiz on Girl Scout history. Consider having the girls pick an activity, because it will help them practice their leadership skills.

Meeting Business

Every meeting should have a central purpose to it, also known as the "business." For example, the first meeting could be used to discuss the type of government the troop wants to adopt. If the girls choose a government that includes elected officers, have them choose the officers. The meeting also can be used to plan future field trips and the process for paying for them. Girl Scouts raise money from cookie sales, troop dues and fall product sales.

Suggestions

A great activity idea is to have the Cadettes decide what they want to do throughout the year. Draw a house with 12 rooms. Give each girl one pad of sticky notes, a pen and a journey book. Have them look through the journey books to figure out what activities they want to do, such as fishing or volunteering for a community service project. Have them place the stickies in one of the 12 rooms. Each room represents a month, and stickies should be placed in the month that works best for the activity.

Introductory Speeches

At some point during the meeting, have the Cadettes practice their public speaking skills. Each girl should prepare a short speech that includes her name, grade and interests. You also can have her include information about why she became a Cadette Girl Scout. If you have a large group, consider having some of the girls speak at the first meeting and the other half speak at a subsequent meeting.

Tags: first meeting, Girl Scout, have Cadettes, with another, Cadette Girl, Cadette Girl Scout

Are College Students Eligible For Food Stamps In Colorado

People living on a low-income, such as full-time students and low wage earners, often have a hard time purchasing healthy food. The Colorado Department of Health and Human Services offers a food assistance program to help struggling people afford the food they need to stay healthy. The program is open to any Colorado resident that meets eligibility requirements.

Food Assistance

The food assistance program provides Colorado residents with a monthly benefit they can use to purchase food. The food assistance program allows recipients to purchase whole fruits and vegetables, breads, meat and baking items. Recipients cannot use their monthly benefits to purchase non-food items. Under the program, recipients are issued an electronic benefits card, known as the Colorado Quest card. The card works like any debit card and the recipient can use it at any participating grocery store.

Eligibility

Eligibility is based on income, resources and residency status. Applicants must be full-time Colorado residents. However, they do not need to be U.S. citizens to apply. The applicant must have limited resources and meet low-income guidelines. Applicants cannot have more than $2,000 in resources, including bank accounts, stocks, bonds and real estate. Income guidelines depend on the size of the family. For example, individuals can make no more than $1,174 gross a month to qualify, according to the Colorado Department of Human Services. College students who meet these requirements can apply for the food stamp program.

Applying

Potential applicants will need to complete an application before being considered for the food assistance program (see Resources). The applicant includes basic information such as the applicant's residency status, work status and information about any family members who live with them. Every applicant will need to provide a Social Security number for everyone in their family. Applicants can print an application from the Colorado Department of Human Service's website or complete one in person at their local County Department of Human or Social Services office.

Requirements

All applicants will need to complete an interview with a SNAP caseworker, either over the phone or in person. The caseworker will review the applicant's resources, income and residency to determine if they qualify. Applicants will need to provide the caseworker with proof of their identity, residency status and citizenship status. If the applicant is employed, he will need to provide pay stubs for the last 30 days, according to the Colorado Department of Human Services. The casework may ask for additional documentation during the interview.

Tags: will need, assistance program, Colorado Department, Department Human, food assistance program

Illinois Medicaid Benefits

DHS Family Community Resource Centers accept applications for Illinois Medicaid.

The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services oversees government health care programs in Illinois, including Medicaid. The Medicaid program offers comprehensive medical coverage, to help pay for your doctor bills, hospital care or emergency services. You can choose from different types of Medicaid plans, managed by private insurance companies or hospitals. Your eligibility for Medicaid can depend on your income and you can apply for benefits at an office in your local area.

Eligibility for Medicaid Benefits

Medicaid offers coverage for low-income individuals and families, senior citizens, blind people and the disabled. To qualify for Medicaid in Illinois, you must hold residency in Illinois and citizenship in the United States and meet asset and income guidelines. Income can include your employment wages, Social Security benefits or alimony. Assets can include money in your checking and saving accounts, life insurance or stocks. If your assets or income exceeds the allowable limits, you may still meet the requirements for the Spenddown Program. The Spenddown Program allows you to receive Medicaid benefits, but you may have to pay for certain medical services.

Medical Services

Medicaid benefits offer comprehensive health care coverage. Benefits include doctor services, hospital care, laboratory tests, family planning, skilled nursing, medical transportation, hospice care, physical therapy and prescription drug coverage. Medicaid may also cover drug or alcohol treatment and psychiatric care. Benefits can pay for medical supplies, kidney dialysis, eye care and dental services.

Medicaid Plans

You can choose from two Medicaid plans in Illinois, fee-for-service or managed care. The fee-for-service plan allows you to receive services from the doctor of your choice. The doctor you choose can work at clinic or in a private practice, but must accept Medicaid patients. The fee-for-service plan also allows you to choose your hospital, but the hospital you choose must have an arrangement with the doctor you choose.

The managed care plan works with a network of hospitals, physicians and pharmacies. You must choose a primary care physician from the network of providers. The primary care physician serves as the coordinator for all of your health care needs, and can refer you to a specialist or arrange for medical equipment when needed. Managed care programs include prepaid health plans and health maintenance organizations. Private insurance companies administer HMO plans, which can include private and Medicaid participants. PHP plans, managed by medical schools and hospitals, only enroll Medicaid participants.

Applying for Benefits

The Illinois Department of Human Services handles Medicaid applications. You can apply for Medicaid at any DHS Family Community Resource Center. If you do not know the location of your local resource center, you can call 800-843-6154 for information. When applying in person, a caseworker will conduct an interview with you to complete the application. You can also request a copy of the application, which you can complete and return in person, by mail or by fax. The Illinois Healthcare Portal website also offers an online version of the Medicaid application, which you can download and submit in person at a DHS office, through the mail or by fax.

Tags: health care, allows receive, application which, care physician, care programs, choose from, Community Resource

How Do You Make A Brochure The Easy Way

Create a brochure easily

Brochures are important business tools that offer information about your services and your business. However, sending brochures off to the printers every few months can be expensive. Even if you do decide to send brochures to the printer, you still need to create the mock-ups or sample brochures and you can do this very simply through a program you may already have like Word or Word Perfect. Of course, if you want to create professional looking brochures but want an easy to use program, then you might want to try a publishing software program.

Instructions

Use Word or Word Perfect

1. Go to "File" on the top toolbar (in Word 2007 it is the Word Icon). Choose "New" and then click twice on "Brochures" from the drop down menu. The template will appear, and you can change the sample words for those you want.

2. Add images by selecting "Insert" from the top Word or Word Perfect toolbar and locate your image or clip art and insert it into your document.

3. Print the page and then slide the paper back in on the reverse side to print the inside page. Print more than one version and fix any mistakes you may see.

Use a Program

4. Download the free version of a program like Small Business Publisher, Desktop Author, or Flyers Creator.

5. Choose the free download so you can test the program and when asked to "Save" or "Run" the program, choose "Save."

6. Click twice on the program icon in the folder you saved the program in (default locations is "Downloads").

7. Follow the installation instructions on the screen. Open the program and choose the Brochure theme you want to work with. Cut the sample text and place your own text in the appropriate area. Insert pictures and art work using the program's easy buttons.

Tags: Word Perfect, Word Word, Word Word Perfect, program choose

College Requirements For A Radiologist

The right courses can help you find a job in radiology.

A radiologist is a medical doctor. This means that in addition to an undergraduate degree (bachelor's or master's), a radiologist also attends a full 4- or 5-year medical post-graduate program, specializing in radiology. Radiologists are licensed by the American Board of Radiology or the American Osteopathic Board of Radiology.

Basic Medical Curriculum

Medical students wishing to specialize in radiology still must take the standard medical curriculum. Though each medical school is different in the order they teach the courses, the foundations of medical education consist of the following:

• Anatomy

• Physiology

• Histology

• Biochemistry

• Embryology

• Neuroanatomy

• Pathology

• Pharmacology

• Microbiology

• Immunology

Specialization

Beyond the standard medical curriculum, radiology students will take specialized courses in their chosen field. These courses are generally taken in the third and fourth years of medical school, alongside hospital or clinic rotation.

At Loyola University in Chicago, the basic requirements of a radiology education include general principles, radiographics, CT scan use, MRI science, principles and use of ultrasound, echocardiogram use, mammography, nuclear medicine and angiography.

Clinical Rotation

Every medical student will be required to do hours of clinical rotation in a hospital or clinic facility associated with the university. For example, Stanford University Medical School requires 15.5 months of clinical clerkships, some of which is to be completed at the Palo Alto Veterans Administration Hospital. Students at McGill University would be affiliated with Montreal General Hospital.

Tags: Board Radiology, hospital clinic, medical school, standard medical, standard medical curriculum

View Medicare Part B Eob Online

View Medicare Part B EOB Online

If you are an American over 65, living with a disability or coping with End-Stage Renal Disease, then Medicare coverage is an option for you. There is a lot of information to digest when it comes to Medicare. Thanks to modern technology, all of that information is available electronically. Using a computer with Internet access, you can have Medicare knowledge at your fingertips. You don't even have to be a computer whiz.

Instructions

1. Turn on your computer and open up the Internet browser. This should be an icon that says Internet Explorer, Safari, Firefox or Opera underneath. Press this icon twice, quickly, with your mouse (double-click).

2. Type the following web address into the long bar that should appear at the top of the Internet browser. Type it exactly as shown: http://www.medicare.gov/Publications/Pubs/pdf/10050.pdf

3. Use the mouse to press the right blue arrow until you reach page 21. Pages 21 through 26 explain Medicare benefits and services that are covered.

Tags: Internet browser, Medicare Part, Medicare Part Online, Part Online, View Medicare

The Hazards Of Uv Rays

Exposure to UV rays can cause skin and eye damage.

Exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays is a leading cause of skin cancer, a disease that kills one American every hour and 65,000 people worldwide each year, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the World Health Organization. While some exposure to UV rays may bring health benefits, excessive exposure can weaken your immune system and lead to serious skin and eye diseases.

Sunburn

The sun's rays are most dangerous between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun is high in the sky and UV rays are the strongest. Even on a cloudy day, nearly 90 percent of UV light can penetrate through the clouds, putting you at risk of developing a sunburn, MayoClinic.com notes. Your body protects itself from UV light by producing more melanin, the dark pigment in the outer layer of skin that creates a "tan." However, for most people, especially those with pale skin or blond, light brown or red hair, the protection is not enough. The result is a sunburn that may cause pain, swelling, redness, blisters, headache, fever and fatigue. Melanoma, a lethal form of skin cancer, is linked to severe sunburns during childhood.

Premature Aging and Solar Keratoses

Exposure to the sun over time can cause your skin to lose elasticity and appear leathery, thick and wrinkled. According to the EPA, the sun is responsible for up to 90 percent of skin changes as you age. That may also include solar or actinic keratoses, a condition characterized by rough and dry skin lesions or precancerous skin growths from intense exposure to sunlight. The growths or lesions often develop on sun-exposed areas, including the face, hands, ears, forearms, scalp and chest.

Skin Cancer

Each year in the U.S., doctors diagnose more than 1.2 million new cases of skin cancer, a figure that exceeds new cases of other cancers in some parts of the world, the Sun Safety Alliance notes. Exposure to UV rays from the sun and other sources such as tanning beds is the primary cause of skin cancer. A 2006 review of 19 studies by the International Agency for Research on Cancer found indoor tanning increased the risk of melanoma by 75 percent when young adults began using a tanning bed before age 35.

Eye Damage

Chronic sun exposure may cause cataracts. UV radiation increases the risk of certain cataracts, an eye condition that causes clouded or blurry vision and can lead to blindness. According to the WHO, about 5 percent of cataracts are the result of UV radiation exposure. Researchers have also linked overexposure to UV radiation to macular degeneration, a disease that slowly reduces sharp vision; pingueculae and pterygia, eye growths resulting in distorted vision; and photokeratitis, or inflammation of the cornea.

Immune System Suppression

Extensive sun exposure may weaken your immune system by altering the activity and structure of your body's cells and natural defenses. This reduces your body's ability to protect itself against foreign invaders, making you more susceptible to illness and disease.

Allergic Reaction

In some people, exposure to UV rays may trigger an allergic reaction that causes hives, blisters, bumps or red blotches on the skin. Certain medications, including antibiotics, birth control pills, and medications to treat depression, arthritis and high blood pressure, may increase your sensitivity to the sun, causing you to develop a rash.

Tags: skin cancer, cause skin, cause skin cancer, disease that, Exposure rays

Herbs To Grow Breasts

For many women, breast augmentation, or the insertion of breast implants by an approved board-certified surgeon, is not an option due to possible medical and health complications. That's why more women who want to achieve larger, fuller breasts have turned to herbal treatments that stimulate breast tissue. Does this Spark an idea?

Fenugreek

Fenugreek, a small stony seed native to southern Asia, is said to be the most effective herb to promote breast growth tissue. As one of the oldest herbal remedies, fenugreek has been tested to support mammary gland growth and can stimulate underdeveloped breasts during puberty. Holistic practitioners recommend taking fenugreek by capsule twice a day with a mixture of other herbal blends, as it is not as effective when taken alone or without herbs that contain phytoestrogens.

Pueraria Mirifica

Pueraria mirifica is a breast-enhancing herb native to Thailand that is found in a tuberous root in rainforests. Its main ingredients, miroestrol and deoxymiroestrol, are phytoestrogens that can be found in lactating women. Scientists and herbal specialists have taken note of the widespread effects this herb has had on native women who use it.

Fennel Seeds

Fennel seeds may be known for their medicinal and culinary benefits, but they also reportedly increase the size of a woman's breasts safely, which is why they are an ingredient in many natural breast creams and supplements. Fennel seeds make an ideal breast-enhancing supplement because of they contain estrogen-enhancing properties are linked to an increase of milk production.

Saw Palmetto

Saw palmetto is found in berries on the Atlantic Coast of the U.S. and has been found to reverse the shriveling of mammary glands. It is also a fast worker, as it can produce up to a 30 percent increase in breast growth in 30 to 60 days.

Mexican Wild Yam Root

The Mexican wild yam root, which is indigenous to Mexico, contains beta-carotene and diosgenin, both of which are responsible for promoting breast health and development. It has hormone-balancing effects, especially for women with high levels of estrogen. High levels of estrogen can cause menstrual and mood irregularities. Wild yam's progesterone can stabilize a high estrogen imbalance and help produce larger breasts by making fat cells bigger.

Tags: breast growth, herb native, levels estrogen, that found

Fda Cleared Vs Fda Approved

Prescription drugs are one of the things the FDA regulates and approves.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is responsible for the protection and overseeing of products that can affect public health. The FDA both clears and approves of items that fall under their umbrella of responsibility, from food and drugs to medical devices and tobacco products.

Applications

To get an item approved or cleared by the FDA, it must be submitted with an application. The two types of applications are a 510k, which is a premarket notification, and a premarket approval (PMA) application. Once these have been submitted and reviewed, the FDA can decide upon approving or clearing the drug or medical device.

Cleared Vs. Approved

Clearance requests are for medical devices that are exactly like those already on the market. Approved requests are for items that are completely new and need to be inspected for safety in case of new hazards. Both aspects need to be proved or provided by the submitter to ensure proper procedures are followed.

Necessity

FDA approval or clearance is necessary to make sure patients using certain medical devices will be safe while utilizing the product. Devices go through rigorous study and examination before being allowed to be cleared or approved into the health care market. It also needs to be proven that the medical device will not only not do harm, but also that it will do good. The entire purpose of a medical device is to improve someone's health, and if the item does not pass that inspection, it will not receive clearance or approval by the FDA.

Tags: medical device, medical devices, items that

Get Breast Enlargements

Get Breast Enlargements

Breast enlargements- also known as breast augmentation or implants- are a popular surgical procedure for women looking to enhance their natural breasts. Interested? Read on to learn the steps involved in getting breast enlargements.

Instructions

1. Seek out a qualified surgeon.

There are many resources for finding a skilled surgeon to perform your breast enlargements. Check the variety of websites devoted to breast augmentation, as a good number of them provide directories of qualified surgeons by location. If you have any friends or family members who have undergone the procedure, they will be excellent sources of information to help you find a surgeon (especially if they are happy with their results)! Whatever you do, make sure that the surgeons you look into are willing and able to provide references, as well as a sufficient number of before and after photos. Do not hesitate to contact the resources they provide; also make sure that the "after" photos were taken at least a year after the woman's surgery, to get the most accurate idea of the results she obtained.

2. Schedule a consultation.

Your consultation with a plastic surgeon will consist of a physical examination, as well as discussion of your medical history, details of the surgery and your reasons and goals behind seeking it. Some key points to discuss:

- what type of breast augmentation surgery will be best for your particular case

- estimated time the surgery will take, and what downtime you can expect afterward

- your options for anesthesia (based on the procedure), and for pain medication following the surgery

- the extent of scarring you can expect

- your specific goals and expectations from the breast enlargements

3. Follow any pre-op instructions.

Prior to your breast enlargements operation, your surgeon may request specific lab work or prescribe medication for you to begin taking. You may be requested to stop taking certain medications (especially those that can cause an increase in bleeding) and to stop smoking before the surgery. You may also be asked to have a mammogram performed, to serve as a baseline for breast changes after the procedure.

4. Have your breast enlargements procedure.

On the day of your procedure, you will be administered anesthesia (either local or general) according to what you and your doctor have already discussed. The surgeon will make the incision (either periareolar- under the areola, inframammary- under the breast, or transaxillary- on the armpit) based also on what type of implant you are receiving, as well as your individual body and desired outcome. He will insert the implant (saline or silicone) either over or under the pectoral muscle, and then close the incision.

5. Follow post-op instructions.

The details of your first few days post-surgery will depend on what type of operation you had. You can usually expect, however, to be out of work for several days, and to avoid any strenuous activity for at least a couple weeks, or until your doctor tells you it is okay. You may experience bruising, swelling, and pain for a month or more, and you and your doctor can discuss what type of medication is appropriate for managing the pain. Typically, you will be directed to wear compression bandages or a postoperative bra to provide necessary support in the time following your surgery.

Tags: what type, breast augmentation, breast enlargements, your breast, your breast enlargements, your doctor, after photos

About Hmos

Since they were created, health maintenance organizations have had a complex history with both providers and members. HMOs were originally created to provide cost benefits to the insured, though studies have questioned their effectiveness in that area. While most companies provide various forms of HMOs to their employees, their effectiveness in creating a health-care system that provides the best possible coverage for their members has been a mixed bag.

Features

There are a number of features regarding HMOs and how they operate. HMOs expect members to choose a primary care physician, who will make the majority of decisions regarding that member's health-care concerns. This means that the PCP will make decisions regarding whether the patient should seek outside care, such as from a specialist, for further medical treatment. Generally, PCPs are internists, pediatricians, family doctors and other general practitioners. In order to get treatment from specialists, members will require a referral from their PCP. This, of course, is only in cases that do not require emergency treatment. PCPs are not authorized to refer patients to specialists without permission from the HMO. Care is managed through a utilization review, in which doctors are watched to determine whether they are performing services outside the HMO's general guidelines for their patients. While HMOs provide preventive care to patients and also pay for such services as immunizations, well-baby checkups, mammograms and physicals, other services -- such as outpatient mental health care, experimental treatments and costlier forms of treatment, diagnosis or care are either limited or prohibited.

Types

There are varying types of HMOs available to members, and each differs in determining how care is given, the role PCPs play in making medical decisions for their patients, etc. One type of HMO is an open-access HMO. Unlike general HMO coverage, open-access HMOs do not require members to seek a referral from a PCP in order to see a specialist. Case management is another form of care provided by HMOs. This involves the identification or management of disease for more catastrophic cases, such as diabetes, asthma and certain types of cancer. In these cases, HMOs tend to be more involved in treatment and care, often assigning case managers to patients or groups of patients. This is done to prevent patients from getting overlapping care from two providers and to guarantee the best possible patient care and treatment.

HMO Models

Other types of HMOs involve directly into how physicians and other health-care providers may operate within the system. They include the staff model, in which physicians work directly for the HMO, operating out of the HMO offices. HMO-provided physicians are allowed to treat only patients who are members. Physicians who work under the group model are contracted by HMOs. They generally are either self-employed or work in a hospital setting and belong to an umbrella of physicians based on a group practice under this HMO plan. Kaiser Permanente is a group model example of an HMO. Independent group practice is another form of a contractual HMO. Physicians under this plan are allowed to treat patients who aren't members. Group model physicians, like the staff model plan, are closed-panel, meaning that in order to participate under the HMO plan they must be a part of a group practice. Other physicians not under the HMO plan are prevented from working under it. In the independent practice association, physicians are contracted under this plan and then contracted by an HMO. This model is open-panel, meaning physicians are allowed to operate their own private practice outside the auspices of an HMO. The network model is yet another type of HMO. HMOs are able to contract among a network of different IPAs. Since 1990, the network model has been the more common form of HMO plan.

Costs

When it comes to costs, HMOs will generally transfer some of the financial risks onto providers. Certain PCPs (providers) will receive a fixed payment for every member they treat each month as a substitute for the type of services they provide. This is done to force providers to limit the amount of health-care service they will offer to patients. The original purpose for HMOs was to contain the high costs of health care, but studies have shown that HMOs have had no depreciable difference in costs than other health-care providers. Though consumers see far fewer out-of-pocket expenses, they nonetheless continue to see rising costs when other factors such as long-term care are added to the overall package.

Effects

One of the major debates revolving around health care is that HMOs do not provide the optimal amount of coverage for members. Criticism against HMOs has focused on the fact that patients rarely are given the kind of treatment they need that could save their lives. This includes emergency room treatment, experimental treatment and care for chronic illnesses. Critics contend that HMOs are less interested in providing the best possible health care treatment for their members and instead focus on making decisions based on costs. This often leaves providers with little control in determining what is best for their patients and patients with few options, since many HMOs deny treatment from specialists outside of referrals that fit within the HMO's general guidelines. Patients who have been damaged or harmed by HMO guidelines have little legal recourse as well. Lawsuits against HMOs are prevented by a federal statute called ERISA to award judgments that compensate plaintiffs for damages.

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Specifications For Audiometric Booths

A proper testing environment is important for achieving accurate hearing test results.

Audiologists use audiometric booths to create a controlled setting in which to accurately test a patient's hearing. Although an audiologist working in a quiet doctor's office might be able to test someone's hearing effectively without a sound booth, an office near a consistent noise source will require a booth to ensure accurate testing.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets the specifications that an audiometric sound booth must meet in order to filter out background noise effectively, thereby creating a good testing environment.

Sound Pressure Level Requirements

According to OSHA, the primary specification for an audiometric sound booth is that it sufficiently reduces ambient noise to ensure effective testing. The noise level in the booth measured in terms of sound pressure level must be below specific levels at a range of frequencies. To meet specifications, ambient noise at 500 and 1,000 hertz (Hz) must be below 40 decibels, at 2,000 Hz it must be below 47 decibels, at 4,000 Hz it must be below 57 decibels and at 5,000 Hz it must be below 62 decibels.

Testing Equipment

To ensure sound pressure levels within an audiometric testing booth meet specifications, they must be measured with equipment that meets certain standards. Measurement equipment must meet American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standards for sound level meters and for octave, half-octave and third-octave band filtering.

Test Frequency

The ambient sound pressure level within an audiometric sound booth depends on more than just the booth's construction. It also depends on the surrounding environment. For example, some businesses use mobile audiometric testing units. In such a case, the sound booth is located inside a van, and the sound pressure levels should be tested each time the van moves to a new location. In another example, some large stores such as Costco have audiometric sound booths on site. These should be tested periodically throughout the day because environmental noise levels may vary.

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Inflamed Infant Breast

Babies are occasionally born with inflamed breasts.

Inflamed infant breasts may be alarming to new parents, but it is actually a common condition. The presence of this and related symptoms usually fade within a few weeks of birth.

Characteristics

Directly following birth, an infant may exhibit inflammation of one or both breasts. This condition affects both male and female infants.

Related Symptoms

Symptoms related to infant breast inflammation include "witch's milk," a milky discharge from the nipples, and "pseudomenstruation," a milky vaginal discharge that may be present in newborn females. Additionally, newborn females may exhibit inflammation of the labia.

Causes

Infant breast inflammation is caused by exposure to the mother's hormones while in the womb, particularly estrogen. Estrogen is a compound that is capable of penetrating the placental wall.

Treatment

No treatment is necessary for infant breast inflammation. Breast inflammation and related symptoms should subside within a few weeks after birth. Do not squeeze inflamed breasts, as this may lead to infection.

Conclusion

Infant breast inflammation is a common condition and is generally not a cause for concern. If the condition persists for more than two weeks, or an infection is suspected, seek medical attention.

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Alternative To Estrogen Cream

Estrogen cream is one option among many in hormone replacement therapy. Hormone replacement therapy is offered to menopausal and post-menopausal women when their estrogen levels naturally decline; the use of the cream increases production of estrogen. When estrogen levels drop, women suffer from erratic periods, vaginal dryness, hot flashes, sleep disturbances, irritability, mood swings, increased body fat and thinning hair. There are alternatives to estrogen creams that can help balance a woman's estrogen levels naturally.

Estrogen Cream Usage

In "Smart Medicine for Menopause: Hormone Replacement Therapy and Its Natural Alternatives," Dr. Sandra Cabot explains that estrogen creams are used to elevate decreased estrogen levels in menopausal women. The creams are inserted into your vagina with a special applicator, so that the medication can be placed deep into the vaginal canal. The cream is used right after emptying your bladder and just before you go to sleep at night. The cream is then absorbed by the vaginal lining and distributed into your blood stream to help increase your estrogen levels and diminish the symptoms associated with menopause. Often times, the medication is coupled with a 12-day course of progesterone tablets every three months to prevent the excessive production of estrogen.

Licorice

In "The Estrogen Alternative: A Guide to Natural Hormonal Balance," Raquel Martin and Judi Gerstung explain that licorice will help to regulate estrogen levels. Licorice is adaptogenic and helps your body regulate imbalances. If your estrogen levels are too high, licorice consumption reduces estrogen levels. If they are too low, consuming licorice can increase your estrogen levels. Take 1 to 5g of licorice; boil it in a cup of hot water for 15 minutes. Consume the beverage three times daily to balance your estrogen levels, or take 250 to 500 mg capsules of licorice three times a day.

Side effects of licorice consumption include muscular pain in your limbs and numbness in your extremities. The herb is not recommended for people with kidney issues, heart complications, liver conditions, diabetes or those who are obese. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not consume the herb without a doctor's consent, and you should not use this product for longer than six weeks. Licorice may interfere with diuretics, ACE inhibitors, aspirin, diogoxin, corticosteroids, insulin, laxatives and oral contraceptives.

Black Cohosh

Martin and Judi Gerstung also explain that black cohosh helps to balance out irregular estrogen levels. Black cohosh has glycosides as well as isoferulic acids that offer anti-inflammatory agents. The herb also contains phytoestrogens, plant-based estrogens, which help to regulate your estrogen levels. Consume 40 to 80 mg of black cohosh daily in capsule form, or use black cohosh tincture by mixing 2 to 4 ml of the tincture in a cup of water to make a tea.

Some side effects associated with the use of black cohosh include joint pains, nausea, a reduced heart rate, the onset of tremors, visual difficulties, vomiting, diarrhea, vertigo and headaches. Women that have a history of breast or uterine cancer should not use this herb, and this herb should be avoided by individuals with existing liver conditions since liver toxicity has been reported in some individuals after using black cohosh. Pregnant women cannot use this herb; it stimulates uterine contractions which can lead to a miscarriage, and breastfeeding women should also avoid this herb.

Turmeric

In "The Estrogen Decision: Self Help Book," Dr. Susan Lark explains that turmeric is excellent for promoting liver health, and your liver health is important to the regulation of estrogen in your body. Your liver breaks down excessive amounts of estrogen and expels excessive estrogen levels from the body. Consume 400 to 600 mg of turmeric in capsule form three times a day to promote healthy liver functioning, or consume 30 to 90 drops of turmeric extract daily.

Excessive amounts of turmeric over a long period of time can cause gastrointestinal difficulties and ulcers. Turmeric can reduce blood sugar levels when it is combined with certain diabetic medications, so consultation with a doctor before using turmeric is advised if you have diabetes. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not use this herb.

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