Diy Lazy Susan Pull Out

Lazy susans were first used by the Chinese at long banquet tables for serving tea.

A portable lazy susan that you can pull out and use on your dining room table for meals will allow you to sit and enjoy your meal without making several trips to the refrigerator. Depending on the size you choose, a lazy susan can hold several bottles of condiments, as well as napkins and flatware. A few tools are required, as well as some basic woodworking skills. This project should not take very long, and when you are finished, you will have a beautiful wooden lazy susan to display on your dining room table. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Gently sand both wood pieces. Be sure to sand all rough edges, as the lazy susan will be handled often.

2. Stain the wood pieces. Use wood stain or polyurethane to coat both wood pieces. For a more custom look, you could also use colored paint. Be sure the paint is lead-free, as the lazy susan will likely be used for serving food. Allow the pieces to dry overnight before handling them.

3. Determine the location of the bearings. Turn each piece of wood to the side that will face in on the lazy susan. Using the bearing as a guide, mark the holes in pencil where you will need to drill. Be sure that the markings are symmetrical on both pieces of wood.

4. Drill holes in the wood and attach the bearings. Using the markings from earlier, drill holes in the pieces of wood. Insert the screws into the holes in each bearing and tighten them. Be sure to tighten screws well, as not doing so will cause your lazy susan to wobble. The lazy susan will resemble a sandwich with the two wood circles on the outside, the bearings on the inside.

5. Attach the rubber feet. Place at least four rubber feet to the bottom of your lazy susan to protect your dining room table surface. Test the lazy susan by spinning it gently. You may have to adjust the tightness of the bearing screws to get the lazy susan to spin properly.

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Solutions To Slow Down Global Warming

Each level of society plays a part in the fight against global warming.

Global warming or climate change is one of the most recognizable problems in the world in 2011. Many scientists and government officials have recognized the signs of the deteriorating environment and have started to act on proactive solutions. Global warming solutions range between all levels of society; both individuals and global efforts play an important role in preserving the environment.

Individual

Individuals affect global warming with their daily consumption demands; for example, electricity and energy consumption leads to higher emissions of carbon dioxide. Guy Dauncey, author of "The Climate Challenge: 101 Solutions to Global Warming," suggests lessening electric consumption and using energy-saving alternatives. Turning off the computer and printer when not in use saves 420kg of carbon dioxide per year. Replacing 20 light bulbs with compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) reduces 1,000kg of carbon dioxide annually.

Community

Community and local government can utilize shared resources to lessen their environmental impact. Some cities offer resources and services to encourage public transportation and car pooling. For example, Zipcar is a private car-sharing service located in several U.S. cities, such as San Francisco, Chicago and Boston. Their environmental impact includes decreasing overall crude oil use--90 percent of their members save a cumulative 219 gallons per year from using the service. Local government can enact transportation laws as well; Dauncey reports that the Washington State Commuter Trip Reduction Law requires all businesses with over 100 employees to reduce trips during peak hours.

Nation

Dauncey suggests that the key to national environmental efforts is to get everyone engaged. This includes increasing awareness among the public and the schools. Government sponsored documentaries and public environmental awareness events are ways for the government to engage the community. These can highlight the overall trend of global warming and possible solutions to enact in all levels of society. Early education in schools about climate change is also vital; instead of focusing on the negative aftermath of global warming, government could increase the emphasis on proactive solutions, which students can do themselves.

Globe

As a whole, the world can cumulatively protect vital natural resources. For example, countries can create acts to preserve forests and reduce wood consumption. Tropical rainforests serve a vital function in combating climate change: Dauncey reports that these rainforests alone account for a 16 percent reduction in global carbon dioxide emissions. Other global initiatives include establishing groups dedicated to reducing environmental impact. Examples of existing groups are the International Carbon Action Partnership and the Rainforest Action Network. These groups are collaborative efforts with representatives from various countries.

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Medicare Supplemental Vs Advantage Insurance

Medicare is a health insurance option for people age 65 and older.

Medicare supplemental insurance and a Medicare Advantage Program are two different Medicare options. If you enroll in Original Medicare Parts A and B and want insurance to cover expenses that those programs don't cover, you buy Medicare supplemental insurance. On the other hand, if you want an alternative to enrolling in Original Medicare Parts A and B, then you buy a Medicare Advantage Plan (also called Medicare Part C).

Medicare Basics

Original Medicare Part A provides hospital insurance, while Part B covers doctors' services, outpatient care and similar expenses. Both parts have deductibles, copayments and coinsurance, and Original Medicare does not cover all expenses. If you have Part A or B and want prescription drug coverage, you must buy Medicare Part D.

Medicare Supplement

A Medicare supplement (also called a Medigap plan) is designed to cover some of the expenses that Original Medicare Parts A and B do not cover. You must have both Medicare Part A and B to buy a Medicare supplement. Medicare requires that Medigap insurance companies sell only standardized Medicare supplements. These plans, each with specific required benefits, use the letters A through N as designations. Usually, the only difference between plans with the same letter is cost. However, the rules for Medicare supplements are different in Massachusetts, Minnesota and Wisconsin than in other states.

Medicare Advantage

When you enroll in Medicare, you can choose either Original Medicare Parts A and B or you can enroll in Medicare Part C, also known as a Medicare Advantage Plan. You buy an Advantage Plan from a Medicare-approved private insurance company. These plans must include all the services of Original Medicare Parts A and B, except hospice care (Original Medicare will still cover your hospice care).

More About Advantage Plans

Advantage plans may also provide extra coverage that Original Medicare does not provide, such as vision and dental benefits. Most Advantage Plans also cover prescription drugs (Medicare Part D). The costs, extra coverage and rules vary depending on the specific plan. According to Medicare, if you join a Medicare Advantage Plan, you don't need Medicare supplemental insurance.

Tags: Original Medicare, Medicare Part, Medicare Advantage, Medicare Parts, Original Medicare Parts

Diy Dlp Projector

DLP projectors use millions of mirrors to display images.

DLP projectors use an all-digital chip with millions of microscopic mirrors to display enlarged versions of images and video. The DLP technology is used in high-definition TV displays as well as projectors. Although DLP technology is extremely advanced, the setup process for a DLP projector is straightforward. You can complete the installation and setup yourself without having to rely on technical service or IT support.

Instructions

1. Position the projector in front of the screen or wall you will use to display the image.

2. Insert one end of the HDMI or VGA cable into the video output on your computer or other video source. If you are using VGA, be sure to secure the two screws on either side of the connection end of the cable.

3. Run the other side of the cable to the "VGA" or "HDMI" port on your DLP projector's input panel. Plug the projector's power cord into a nearby electrical outlet.

4. Turn on your video source. The projector should detect the video feed and immediately begin displaying the image from your source. If not, press the "Source" or "Input" button on the projector's control panel until the image is displayed.

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Washington State Paternity Leave Law

Beginning October 2012, fathers in Washington will be entitled to paid paternity leave.

Under the federal Family & Medical Leave Act (FMLA), a father is permitted to take paternity leave at the birth or adoption of a child. In Washington and all other states, except California, paternity leave is unpaid, as of 2010.

Paid Leave

Some progressive employers in Washington have introduced paid leave as an employee benefit. Check with your human resources department to see if it is one of your company's benefits. Also, ask if you are entitled to leave under the federal FMLA.

FMLA

FMLA grants 12 weeks of unpaid leave to parents upon, or within one year, of the birth or adoption of a child. You are eligible for this if you work for a government entity or a company that has 50 or more workers that work within a 75-mile radius of your Washington workplace and you have been employed by that employer for at least 12 months and for at least 1,250 hours during the last year.

FMLI

In Washington, a law exits that expands benefits of the state's Family & Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI), including the provision of up to five weeks of leave with a weekly benefit of $250 to all parents with a newborn or newly adopted child. However, due to the budget deficit, implementation was deferred until October 2012.

Tags: adoption child, birth adoption, birth adoption child, Family Medical, Family Medical Leave, FMLA FMLA, Medical Leave

Job Description Of Radiology Inventory Specialist

Radiology is a subset of the medical field that deals with imaging. Radiologists take X-rays and PET scans and MRIs, among other tests, to help doctors and patients to see what is going on inside a patient's body. Radiologists may also use technologies such as radiation to treat diseases, such as cancer. Within the field of radiology, there are many medical professionals, including radiology inventory specialists, who have a specific role to fulfill.

Tracking Inventory

The primary function of a radiology inventory specialist is to keep track of the inventory that is readily available for use. The inventory specialist takes count of the supplies currently on hand and either orders more or informs another department that more supplies are needed. The inventory specialist is also in charge of distributing these supplies when needed to the radiology department and other departments of the medical center that may need them. The supplies may include everything from X-ray films to barium sulfate -- the milky substance patients need to drink before having certain imaging tests done.

Recordkeeping

The radiology inventory specialist is also responsible for performing a great deal of recordkeeping. This includes recordkeeping both on paper and a computer system to help keep track of inventory. This recordkeeping helps keep track of where supplies have been distributed, how much was distributed, what supplies need to be replenished and so on. Without accurate recordkeeping, there could be a shortage of supplies when needed, causing delays in providing needed medical care for patients. Or there could be an overabundance of supplies that could go bad or expire before they are used, creating waste.

Restocking

Inventory specialists also must replenish their inventory with supplies. This means having the ability to restock supplies where they are needed, both in the radiology department of the medical center and throughout other areas of the medical facility. Radiology inventory specialists must have knowledge of where specific items are kept and of the differences between various tools used in procedures performed by radiologists, such as catheters for intervention radiology.

Identifying Opportunities and Solutions

Another primary function of the inventory specialist is to identify opportunities to streamline inventory management and to identify opportunities to enhance the timely restocking of the medical facility they work in. For instance, the inventory specialist may evaluate new systems of tracking the use of equipment in order to make sure that new products are ordered shortly before they are depleted. The specialist may also define new methods of storing products for easier accessibility and to more easily find the products needed. This helps to improve the functionality of the medical facility, especially in the case of a medical emergency.

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Breast Calcification Cures

Breast calcifications are deposits of calcium that commonly appear in women's breast tissue. They range in size from tiny grains to larger coarse deposits, but even the largest calcifications cannot be felt by hand. In the vast majority of cases, breast calcifications are completely harmless and require no cure or treatment. However, for a small number of individuals, calcifications are an early sign of the onset of breast cancer.

Understanding Breast Calcifications

You will not know if you have breast calcifications unless you receive a mammogram. It is important to realize that calcifications are a common mammogram finding, and there is typically no cause for alarm if your doctor detects them. Common causes for calcium deposits include mastitis, direct breast injury or implantation surgery, prior radiation treatments, debris or secretions from cells within the breast and advancing age.

Identifying Large Calcifications

Once calcifications are diagnosed, your radiologist, or X-ray imaging specialist, will need to learn more about them. Large deposits--known as macrocalcifications--are generally harmless, and if these are found you will receive no further care beyond follow-up comparisons of your X-rays during your regularly scheduled mammograms.

Identifying Small Calcifications

Smaller deposits--known as microcalcifications--are also typically harmless, or benign. However, it is this form of calcium deposit that is most likely to indicate the onset of cancer. After determining that microcalcifications are present, your radiologist will examine them further to map their exact size, shape and distribution in your breast tissue. By comparing these results to known factors in cancer development (malignancy), he will then place your calcifications in one of three categories.

"Benign calcifications" pose no risk of developing into cancer. "Probably benign" calcifications present a risk of cancer development that is less than 2 percent. "Suspicious calcifications" show a greater probability of malignancy.

Follow-up Examinations and Treatment

If probably benign calcifications are found, you will need to return in six months for a follow-up mammogram. If your second exam shows no developing problems, and you are less than 40 years old, you typically can return to regular yearly exams. If you have normal findings and are over 40, you will need to have one more mammogram in six months, accompanied by an exam of your other breast. If these findings also show no changes, you can return to regular yearly exams as well.

In cases where suspicious calcifications are found, you will need to undergo a procedure known as a biopsy, which involves taking small tissue samples from your breast for further examination. Your biopsy may be performed as either a surgical procedure, or as a minimally invasive needle biopsy requiring only local anesthetic. The appropriate form of procedure will depend on the appearance and location of your calcifications, as well as on the size of your breast. The results of your biopsy will reveal any cancer that might be present.

If cancer is found, it is important to understand that it will likely be in its earliest stages, and therefore very treatable. Consult your oncologist (cancer specialist) to learn the details of appropriate breast cancer treatment.

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Salary Of Family Practice Doctors

Family doctors earn a high salary.

Due to the competitive entry requirements to medical school and the numerous years of internship and residency required in order to practice, family doctors earn some of the highest wages of all occupations in the United States. The salary of a family practice doctor will depend on what type of medical facility he works in and its location.

Salary

Family practice doctors in the U.S. earn an average salary of $168,550 as of May 2009, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. These doctors typically have returning patients and may treat a wide variety of common illnesses and injuries, such as the flu and broken or sprained bones.

Medical Facilities

The majority of family practice doctors work in the offices of physicians, earning an average salary of $174,280. Those in outpatient care centers earn a similar average salary of $174,590, while family doctors in general medical and surgical hospitals earn less, at $157,470. The government also employs family practice doctors; those working for the local government earn an average salary of $144,640, while those employed by the state government earn $131,010.

Higher Salaries

Family practice doctors may seek higher wages in other industries, though employment opportunities are fewer. Insurance carriers pay family practice doctors an average salary of $174,610, while family doctors working in employment services earn $180,910. In medical and diagnostic laboratories the average salary for family doctors is $189,840, and the industry of office administrative services offers the highest wages at an average salary of $193,250.

Location

The demand for family practice doctors in an area, as well as that area's cost of living, will have an effect on salary. Arkansas is the state with the highest salary average for family practice doctors at $206,030, followed by Wisconsin at $203,040. Wyoming, Utah and Georgia also rank on the Bureau of Labor Statistics list of top-paying states for family doctors, with salary averages ranging from $188,620 to $194,680.

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Recognize And Treat A Rib Fracture In Dogs

If your dog has been involved in an accident that involves chest trauma, he may have a rib fracture. Typically the owner discovers the injury when rushing the canine to the vet after an accident. If treated, the prognosis for this condition is very good.

Instructions

1. Evaluate your dog’s symptoms. Dogs that experience rib fractures may have pain while walking and difficulty breathing. Typically the owner is alerted of the problem when witnessing an accident involving the dog.

2. Take your dog to the emergency hospital. Contact the vet or emergency hospital and advice of your dog’s condition and arrival. Have someone carry your dog to the car to minimize pain and further injury.

3. Request a radiograph of the ribs. If your canine is in pain request medication to ease his discomfort. Ask for radiographs of the ribs and lungs to determine if a rib fracture is present.

4. Create a treatment plan with your vet. Determine if your canine will need surgery to stabilize the rib fracture. Generally a rib fracture may heal without surgery unless the injury is more serious. If your dog requires surgery pins or wires may need to be inserted to stabilize the area.

5. Keep activity to a minimum while your dog is healing. When you bring your dog home from the hospital reduce his activity. Put your canine on a leash during potty breaks to cut back on excess strain to the ribs.

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Digital Xrays & Pregnancy

X-rays during pregnancy can pose health risks.

According to FamilyDoctor.org, digital x-rays expose a small amount of radiation in order to take a photo of the bones and organs. Care should be taken when getting x-rays during pregnancy, as a fetus is especially fragile and vulnerable.

Exposure

An unborn baby is especially susceptible to developmental abnormalities, and exposure to radiation could cause harm. An unborn baby should not be exposed to more than 5 rad. The amount of radiation for one x-ray is very small, far less than 5 rad, and not enough to harm an unborn baby.

Effects

The effects of exposure to radiation on the unborn baby can vary. FamilyDoctor.org states that medical x-rays do not increase the number of babies born with deformities, but 4 percent to 6 percent of all babies are born with some kind of minor abnormality.

Alternatives

The American Pregnancy Association states that x-ray exams should be used when the benefits to the mother outweigh the potential risks. Alternative testing such as ultrasound or MRI can be used in some cases. Do not forgo testing, as a healthy mother is the best benefit to the unborn baby.

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Breast Lift Procedures

Improving Breast Placement is a Common Cosmetic Procedure

Cosmetic surgery like a breast lift can help women feel better about their bodies. Breasts sag due to age, pregnancies, and weight gain and loss. Breast lifts are not the same as breast enlargement or reduction. Women who choose to undergo breast lifts are satisfied with the size and structure of their breasts, but simply need them to be restored to their proper position.

Candidates

Women who have breasts that sag or have nipples that point down are typical candidates for breast lifts. If the nipples are lower than the beast crease created by the attachment of the bottom of the breast to the chest, breasts can be lifted to their proper placement and reshaped. Women who wish to have their breasts lifted are best advised to wait until the reasons for breast sagging have finished occurring. A woman in her childbearing years should be sure her family is complete. Breastfeeding should also be over, although it is important to note that breast lift surgery does not prohibit future childbearing or breastfeeding. Finally, a candidate for breast lift surgery should be at her goal weight if she has been dieting to be sure no further sagging will occur.

Procedure

Breast lifts are normally done in a surgical suite in the doctor's office building. In some cases, if the patient's medical history warrants it, the surgeon may decide to do the surgery in a hospital to avoid possible problems. Anesthesia for breast lifts is either administered as a general anesthetic that puts you completely to sleep, or as a local anesthetic given through an IV. Most breast lifts are done with a general anesthetic and you will be asleep during the entire procedure.

During the surgery an incision is made from the base of the breast up to the nipple. A cut is then made around the entire nipple. The tissue of the breast is lifted up and excess skin is removed from the lower breast to close around and support the breast. The nipple is then placed in the proper position and sutured to the area. Stitches are placed along a straight line from the nipple down to the chest on the bottom of the breast.

Recovery

When you wake up from a breast lift you will have bandages covering your breasts and a soft but supportive bra will already be in place. The surgical bra will also apply steady pressure to help alleviate swelling and keep the blood flowing to the area. You will need to wear the surgical bra for about 2 weeks following the surgery after the stitches are removed.

You will normally be able to go home the same day as soon as you are fully awake. If there is any fear of complications or a medical past warrants it, your physician may require you to stay overnight in a hospital setting to ensure proper recovery.

Cost and Insurance

Medical insurance rarely covers cosmetic procedures. However, in some situations where the need for a breast lift is caused by another medical condition, such as cancer, insurance may pay for the procedure.

There are three costs involved in a breast lift: the anesthesiologist, the surgeon and the facility. As of 2009, a breast lift will run between $5,000 and $9,000. The quality of the surgeon and the facility should be more important than cost when choosing to have the procedure.

Tags: breast lift, breast lifts, bottom breast, breast lift surgery, breast lift will, breast nipple, breast nipple then

Breast Development In Children

Talk to your child's pediatrician about early breast develpment.

Breast development in children has several causes. Certain infections, accidents, obesity or endocrine issues could be the culprit. In many instances, something can be done to solve the problem. Your first step is to talk to your child's pediatrician about what might be causing early breast development.

Bump or Infection

Two common causes of breast swelling are breast abscesses or contusions. An abscess is an infection of the tissue; it can cause redness, swelling, fever, pain and nipple discharge and is treated with antibiotics or drainage. A contusion is a lump or trauma caused from a fall or bump. This tender mass should go away in a few weeks.

Breast Development in Infants and Toddlers

Newborns commonly have neonatal breast hypertrophy. This is normal and, if not pestered, should go away within a few months. However, if the area exhibits any signs of infection---redness, swelling---contact your pediatrician. Premature thelarche is seen mostly in girls under age 2. The child will have firm tissue under one or both nipples. The pediatrician should evaluate and monitor this condition.

Obesity

Dr. Joanna Dolgoff, a child obesity specialist, attributes some breast development to excess weight. Excess fat produces excess hormones, which can look like breast tissue and may actually trigger puberty. It is extremely important to prevent childhood obesity and decrease the possibility of early puberty.

Naturally Occurring and Precocious Puberty

Puberty is an adolescent growth spurt occurring between ages 8 to 13 in girls and 10 to 15 in boys. It lasts 2 to 5 years and is accompanied by pubic and underarm hair, sex-organ development and female menstruation. Puberty hormones can even cause breast development in boys (gynecomastia). The website Keep Kids Healthy emphasizes how common this is and that the breast tissue should eventually go away. Reassure your child this is normal and only temporary. Precocious, or early, puberty can cause several complications; children showing symptoms should be seen by a pediatric endocrinologist as soon as possible.

Tags: your child, breast development, breast tissue, child pediatrician, child pediatrician about, early breast

Computed Radiography & Digital Radiography Training

Radiography demands attention to detail.

A computed and digital radiography training curriculum introduces attendees to advanced topics in the design and development of computerized axial tomography scans. The curriculum also teaches the duties of radiographers and X-ray technologists.

Education

For entry-level computed and digital radiography technologist jobs, most companies prefer college graduates who have a degree in radiology or radiologic technology, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Employers favor candidates with a master's degree for senior roles.

Areas of Focus

According to the BLS, novice computed and digital radiography technologists receive on-the-job training. Employees usually need one or two years of training alongside experienced professionals, reports O*Net OnLine. A technologist learns review and assess developed X-rays, immobilize patients on operating tables and explain radiography procedures to patients.

Tools

According to O*Net OnLine, computed and digital radiography training courses teach attendees the tools of the trade. These include intramuscular needles, medical radiological positioning aids for general radiological use, medical syringes without needles, medical X-ray darkroom equipment or supplies and digital imaging communications in medicine software, or DICOM.

Tags: computed digital, computed digital radiography, digital radiography, needles medical, radiography training

Become An Xray Technician Through An Online Degree

An X-ray technician is a medical technician responsible for taking X-rays in a medical setting. They operate X-ray imaging tools and administer CT scans to help diagnose medical conditions. They usually work in hospitals or in private medical practice and, although they usually don't analyze the X-rays, they are responsible for safeguarding the patient during the X-raying process. X-ray technologists are also called radiographers, radiographic technologist or a radiological technician. Choosing to complete your education online has certain advantages. You can fit it around your family life and, in some instances, it will allow you to continue working while you study.

Instructions

1. Graduate high school. You will need to have a high school diploma or its equivalent before you can pursue a career as an X-ray technician. Try to choose classes in biology, chemistry and anatomy if possible.

2. Enroll in a two- or four-year radiography online program. These programs will focus on medical technology, patient care and pathology. In addition, you will learn properly position a patient for specific radiology techniques. At this stage, you may decide to enter into a course in which you will learn therapeutic radiography, which will train you to administer radiography to cancer patients. The majority of your classes will be conducted online, via web-conferencing, text-based chats and via email.

3. Pass the licensing exam, which is administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Application fees for the licensing exams range from $150 to $300.

4. Apply for your state license. Most states require X-ray techs to be licensed, and in some states, such as California, you are required to show proof of continuing education before your license will be renewed.

5. Begin applying for jobs as an X-ray technician. There are many jobs available for those in the radiology field and you can work in hospitals, nursing home facilities, medical centers and rehabilitation centers.

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Buy Health Insurance For Kids

Health insurance for kids is available from at low cost from the state and federal government.

Health insurance provides people with low-cost access to medical care. Users pay an upfront fee. In turn, they can see a doctor for preventative medical care and if they develop a serious medical condition. Kids also need health insurance. Health insurance for kids helps families sleep easier at night knowing children will get to see a doctor if they get sick. Good health insurance covers a child's short-term medical needs and helps them set up a good foundation for a healthy adulthood.

Instructions

1. Find out where you can purchase health insurance for kids. Two of the most common options are through an employer or through separate, private medical insurance. Many employers provide family health insurance as part of a benefits package to employees. The worker pays a higher premium than he would for individual coverage. In turn, all family members are covered. Private medical plans are available if you have no coverage at work. If you are self-employed, you may wish to purchase private health insurance for your employees and yourself. Employers may be eligible for tax benefits if they do so, so check with your accountant.

2. Research state-subsidized options. Parents who are unable to afford private medical insurance or do not have medical insurance from an employer can get access to state and federal health insurance for kids. Applicants must meet certain guidelines that include proof of citizenship and earnings below a certain amount. State and federal programs are designed to help kids. The programs offer comprehensive coverage, low premiums and no exclusion of pre-existing conditions such as type 1 diabetes.

3. Investigate the costs of the health insurance. Health care plans typically charge several different fees. A premium is a fee that you pay usually at least once a month. Health care insurance for kids may require a small additional premium or get folded into the cost of your overall coverage. Co-pays and deductibles are amounts you must pay before the coverage starts. A co-pay may be charged if your child sees a pediatrician. A deductible typically is a fee that you must pay per year first. If your child gets into an accident at school, you may face an initial deductible when he is brought to the emergency room for treatment.

4. Speak with your pediatrician. Your kid's doctor often knows a lot about health insurance plans for children. A pediatrician can help you understand which plan will serve your child's needs best. The pediatrician may point out that a particular plan covers specific treatments for asthma, while another plan offers no such coverage. If you have a choice of plans, bring the information with you when you visit.

5. Learn what additional services are covered. A health insurance plan for kids might allow parents to get at least partial reimbursement for braces, physical therapy appointments and treatment for mental illness. You should be able to find out in advance what extra medically related services will cost.

Tags: insurance kids, health insurance, medical insurance, your child, Health care, health insurance, health insurance

What Are The Side Effects Of A Mammogram

What are the Side Effects of a Mammogram?

A mammogram is a type of diagnostic test that uses radioactive energy to take pictures of the interior structures within your breast tissue to look for any abnormalities. Although often effective for locating breast tumors, mammograms pose a slight risk for side effects.

During the Procedure

During a mammogram, an x-ray technician uses a special platform to compress your breast. Although this does no damage to your breast tissue, you may experience discomfort from the pressure, explains the Radiological Society of North America.

Risks

Mammograms expose your body to radioactive energy, and this poses a slight risk of side effects. Amongst the possible adverse reactions from exposure to radioactive energy are decreases in blood cell counts, vomiting, diarrhea, skin reactions as well as a slight increase in the risk of developing cancer later in life, explains Virtual Medical Centre.

Prevention

The federal government places guidelines about the amount of radiation that women can be exposed to during mammograms, which keeps the levels of radiation low and makes side effects unlikely, explains the Radiological Society of North America.

Pregnancy

Because mammograms administer radiation close to the pelvis, doctors rarely prescribe the test for women who are pregnant in order to prevent any potential harm to the developing fetus, reports the Radiological Society of North America.

Expert Insight

Overall, the Mayo Clinic reports that any side effects of mammograms are very minimal and pose far less risk than leaving a breast tumor undiagnosed.

Tags: North America, radioactive energy, Radiological Society, Radiological Society North, Society North, Society North America, your breast

What Are The Benefits Of Premarin

What Are the Benefits of Premarin?

Wyeth Pharmaceuticals is the creator of Premarin, a prescription drug for women. The drug is an estrogen hormone therapy. According to its creators, it helps to relieve or eliminate a variety of female hormonal problems.

Hot Flashes

After gaining approval from a physician to use Premarin, a hormone replacement therapy, you may experience a decrease in occurrence or intensity of hot flashes within 1 to 3 weeks. The drug is intended for use by women who have had a hysterectomy. Continued use of Premarin is expected to cause increased improvement with the relief of hot flashes.

Vaginal Symptoms

Wyeth Pharmaceuticals states that Premarin's vaginal cream is the first vaginal estrogen treatment made to relieve moderate to severe vagina itching, burning or dryness. A small application of the cream can help to reduce or eliminate physical discomfort experienced by menopausal women during intercourse. With prolonged usage, the cream can reverse vaginal changes associated with menopause. It can take up to 3 weeks for the benefits to begin to be realized.

Osteoporosis

As a woman ages--and especially after she begins to experience menopause--the amount of estrogen produced by the body may diminish. This can cause increased bone loss. The estrogen in Premarin can help to lower a woman's chances of getting osteoporosis. Premarin's estrogen can also help to increase a woman's bone mineral density in the spine and hip areas. Even if women aren't experiencing other menopausal-related health conditions such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness, they can benefit from using Premarin to help prevent osteoporosis.

Side Effects

It's important you check with your physician before using Premarin. Side effects associated with the drug include headaches, stomach pain and vaginitis or inflammation of the vagina. Women who experience vaginal bleeding, who have had cancer, a heart attack, blood clots or a stroke should not use the drug. It could cause further complications.

Considerations

Premarin comes in five dosage strengths. To lower the chances of experiencing unwanted side effects with Premarin, use the smallest doses of the drug with each application. Estrogen medications can also increase a woman's chances of developing uterine cancer. Tell your doctor if you experience vaginal bleeding, chest pain or severe headaches. As soon as your symptoms begin to decrease significantly, check with your physician about stopping the usage of Premarin.

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About The Medical Conditions Of Shingles

About the Medical Conditions of Shingles

Shingles is a skin condition that can result in painful, oozing blisters that usually appear around a person's mid-section, including the chest, back torso and even under the breasts. Because shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, medical treatment, which usually consists of antiviral drugs or vaccines, is usually necessary to clear up the sores.

Identification

Though a rash or series of blisters that typically appear on your midsection is usually the most evident feature of shingles, sensitivity or burning on the skin's surface may be present before any physical malady has appeared. Unfortunately, because these symptoms aren't yet accompanied by any tangible sores, shingles can be difficult to identify at its early stage. Once the redness and blisters begin to form, however, the condition becomes much easier to diagnose and then treat.

Prevention/Solution

Antiviral drugs are the most common and effective forms of treatment for shingles, so it is important to see your doctor soon after symptoms develop. There is a varicella-zoster virus vaccine called Zostavax that is usually administered to "at-risk" populations, including the elderly and people with a vulnerable immune system, such as cancer or transplant patients and those who are HIV-positive. This vaccine greatly reduce chances of developing shingles again, and, if shingles should reoccur, it should lessen its symptoms and severity. There are three antiviral drugs on the market that treat shingles. They are Zovirax, Famvir and Valtrex. These drugs are most effective when they're administered within 72 hours of the rash or sores appearing. Steroids and a few pain relievers are also used occasionally to treat shingles, though the antivirals are usually the best treatment option.

Warning

Like chickenpox, shingles is contagious. Because both of these conditions develop from the varicella-zoster virus, it can be spread to someone who has not had chickenpox and will only result in chickenpox, not shingles. If you've already had chickenpox you cannot catch the varicella-zoster virus from someone else, though you can still develop shingles. Cellulitis can develop if the blisters caused by shingles become infected with bacteria, which can be treated by antibiotics. Rarely, shingles will form on the face, which can irritate the eye and possibly--though again rarely--lead to blindness.

Time Frame

If burning and sensitivity is present on your skin from shingles, the actual bumps and blisters will appear approximately three to seven days later. The antivirals typically need to be administered within 72 hours of the blisters forming. A person who is otherwise in good health and does not have any immune system problems should recover from shingles within three to five weeks. Typically the burning and itching will subside first, followed by the disappearance of the rash and/or blisters. The physical maladies should not leave any kind of lasting scars.

Misconceptions

The varicella-zoster virus, which causes shingles and chickenpox, is actually one form of the herpes virus. However, it is not the same strain of the virus that causes genital warts or mouth sores, so there is no risk of these conditions developing alongside shingles.

Tags: varicella-zoster virus, About Medical, About Medical Conditions, administered within, administered within hours

The Advantages Of Tricare Insurance

Tricare military insurance has several plans to choose from, each with its own advantages.

Tricare is the military’s health care insurance program for active, retired, Reserve and National Guard members and their families. The military health care resources and civilian health care networks are linked together by the Tricare health system. Tricare is broken down into several different plans, each with its own advantages.

Prime

Prime is Tricare’s most comprehensive and affordable plan. Prime advantages include enhanced vision and preventive services, travel reimbursement for covered specialty care and the convenience of receiving treatment at an on-base military treatment facility. Additionally, active-duty members and their families have no out-of-pocket costs or enrollment fees.

Standard

The Standard plan is chosen by military members for various reasons. One reason this health care plan is preferred is that beneficiaries satisfied with their current civilian providers, who are not members of other Tricare networks, may continue to use these providers under the Standard plan. Additionally, some Standard beneficiaries may not reside in an area where Tricare Prime is available, so Standard may be the only military health care option.

Advantages of the Standard plan include widely available coverage, no enrollment fees and an extensive provider list. Tricare Extra may also be used with this plan. When using Extra, the beneficiary will pay fewer out-of-pocket costs and the provider will file claims for you. There are more out-of-pocket costs associated with the Standard portion of the plan, in which the beneficiaries choose to visit non-network providers.

Reserve Select

Tricare Reserve Select is the health plan for selected Reserve members of the ready reserve and their families. Reserve Select members may visit any Tricare authorized provider in network or out of network. Receiving care at a military treatment facility, however, depends on space availability and is not guaranteed. Some out-of-pocket costs exist with this plan, but if a network provider is chosen, less will be paid out of pocket. A monthly enrollment fee is required.

Tricare for Life

Tricare for Life is the coverage available to all Tricare beneficiaries who are Medicare eligible. Medicare is the primary insurance and Tricare is the secondary payer, limiting out-of-pocket-costs for the covered member. A benefit of the plan is the coverage of Medicare’s deductible and co-insurance costs by Tricare.

US Family Health Plan

This Tricare Prime option plan is available through community not-for-profit health systems in six U.S. regions. Beneficiaries choose medical providers from a network of private physicians. Active-duty members pay no fees or out-of-pocket costs. All other beneficiaries pay annual enrollment fees; the cost of care is specific to the location in which care is received.

Tags: health care, out-of-pocket costs, enrollment fees, Reserve Select, Standard plan, their families

The History Of Ccd Cameras

A CCD (charge coupled device) camera is a device that turns detected light into electrical signals that can be read by a computer. CCDs are one of the main technologies used in digital imaging.

Invention

The concept behind CCD cameras was invented by Willard S. Boyle and George E. Smith on October 19, 1969. While working on charge storage in diodes, they came up with the theory behind the CCD in a half hour of brainstorming.

Original Intent

While Boyle and Smith originally intended the CCD to work as a memory storage device, and their first models were built with this function in mind, it quickly became clear that CCDs could also be used for imaging.

Competition with Film

When CCDs cameras were first introduced they did poorly in competition with film cameras, especially in scientific uses. CCD cameras of the time had poor resolution, and despite their low weight, cost and energy efficiency, film was still preferred.

Use in Satellites

CCD cameras became a major success when they were used in satellites. Due to background radiation, film was unusable in space,and CCD cameras were smaller and more efficient than any other digital imaging technologies in use at the time.

Success

As CCD cameras continued to be refined and improved, they reached levels of resolution that could match normal film cameras. Today CCD detectors are a part of many consumer digital cameras.

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Normal Breast Mammograms

Mammograms are an essential way to help stop breast cancer.

Breast mammograms are an important medical test that check the breasts for any unnatural tissue or lumps growing under the skin. A lump could be a tumor, which could mean breast cancer.

Reasons for Mammograms

Mammograms are X-rays taken of the breast to help doctors determine if there are any early signs of cancer in the breast tissue. It is a routine health care procedure done annually for women over 40, as they are in the higher risk categories for breast cancer development. The test is beneficial mainly in its prophylactic manner, because preventing and stopping cancer early is the safest way for people to keep healthy.

Normal Breast Mammograms

A normal breast mammogram shows the doctor or radiologist reading the X-ray that there are no signs of cancer or dangerous abnormalities. The test does not take long, but some women find it uncomfortable.

Other Options

Other preventative measures can help keep cancer in check. Because doctors don't believe it is necessary to get yearly mammograms until age 40, there are things younger females can do to protect themselves. Clinical breast exams can be done at physicals or check-ups and are recommended every three years until age 40. A woman can also do a self-exam on her breasts to make sure she doesn't feel any lumps or suspiciously sore places in the breast area.

Tags: breast cancer, Breast Mammograms, Normal Breast, Normal Breast Mammograms, signs cancer

New York State Privacy Laws Regarding Medical Information

Healthcare workers should be familiar with all privacy policies.

HIPAA and state laws mandate that all medical information retain a certain degree of privacy. Like other states, New York has strict rules about what medical information is, who can see and use it and when it has to remain absolutely confidential. Patients have access to their records, too, and may be able to make certain requests about their medical files.

HIPAA

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, also known as HIPAA, refers to a set of laws that dictate how medical information about a patient can be used. It also refers to whom the information can be given. The law requires that patients be informed of their rights. Patients are expected to sign a consent form indicating that they received the information and understand it.

Covered Entities

A covered entity is a person or agency that has the right to access your health information. Your insurance company, for example, is a covered entity. In order for them to pay your medical bills, they can request copies of your records. Nurses can be covered entities. If one nurse shares something about your condition with another nurse who will also be taking care of you, they are both covered under HIPAA. A nurse cannot talk to another health care worker about you if that person is not assisting in your care.

Protected Health Information

Also called PHI, protected health information refers to any information that describes a patient's health condition and information that can link a patient to that condition. For example, if a doctor writes "chest pain" and your last name on a piece of paper and leaves it in an easily viewable area of the nurse's station, anyone walking by could have access to it and would assume that you are being treated for chest pain. This may not seem like a big deal, but some people don't want anyone but hospital personnel to know why they are being treated. Also, some patients are being treated for conditions that are much more sensitive than chest pain, and could cause them great embarrassment if the condition was found out.

Minors

In New York, parents have "no right to access if minor can lawfully obtain health care service without the consent of a parent," according to a HIPAA website. This means that if a teenager goes to Planned Parenthood for birth control pills without initial parental knowledge, parents who find out later cannot call Planned Parenthood and ask questions about the teenager. Planned Parenthood in most states don't require authorization from a parent to help a child. Health care workers can also withhold information from a parent in other situations if they don't find that "disclosure is in the best interest of the child," says the same website. This usually happens if abuse or neglect is suspected.

HIV

HIPAA site also states that "no person can disclose or be compelled to disclose" a patient's positive HIV status. An exception to the rule is the release of a child into the foster care system. Social services and fosters parents do have the right to know if a child is HIV positive.

Research

Although strict rules are involved, some health information can be used for research purposes. Information about the recurrence of some conditions or diseases, or the types of prescriptions written, can be tracked this way.

Other Rights

Patients also have the right to see what is in their medical charts. According to the New York State Department of Civil Service website, "You have the right to inspect and copy medical information we maintain about you. Your request must be made in writing." The facility can charge a fee for the service. The patient can also ask for amendments to the record if he believes any piece of information is incorrect. In some cases, patients can ask for extra restrictions on who can access their files.

Tags: have right, medical information, being treated, chest pain, health information

Risks Of 3d Or 4d Ultrasounds

Three and four dimensional ultrasound technology provides an expectant mother with the first visual photograph of her child. Ultrasounds involve the use of high-frequency sound waves to create images. Three dimensional ultrasound is a medical ultrasound providing three dimensional images of the fetus. These images are animated at a rapid pace to produce a 4D ultrasound. Experts have weighed the pros and cons of 3D/4D ultrasounds and the risk is minimal to the fetus. Two dimensional ultrasounds and 3D/4D ultrasounds use the same frequency of wavelengths to conduct the ultrasound, making the 3D/4D ultrasound no more risky than a regular 2D.

Time Frame

The actual 3D/4D ultrasounds may last up to 30 minutes. Physicians who perform 3D/4D ultrasounds will not likely go past 30 minutes due to the increase of ultrasound waves in the extended time, the longer the ultrasound the more wave exposure the fetus is subjected to. Since doctors to do not know the side effects of prolonged exposure, doctors limit their sessions to be safe. Three- and four-dimensional ultrasounds only have the capability to print out one or two pictures at a time, so if the ultrasound technician sees a problem on the 3D/4D imaging, they will switch back to 2D to print out continuous pictures and investigate the source of the problem.

Intensity

FDA sets the intensity of ultrasound waves and the ultrasound machines are programmed to reflect those standards. If the ultrasound machine begins to malfunction or go past the FDA standards, it will automatically shut off, or give an error message. Ultrasound machines are used to hear the fetal heartbeat after 12 weeks of gestation because higher intensity waves are used to detect the heartbeat and focus in on specific organs. FDA evaluates the intensity of the ultrasound waves to ensure the safety of the fetus. Ultrasound waves create heat; the FDA has completed many studies to ensure this heat cannot be felt by the fetus.

Effects

There is more than one report of a slight increase in left-handedness in boys whose mothers have received 3D ultrasounds. Left-handedness does not qualify as a medical effect according to the FDA. In the 30 years that ultrasounds have been used, there are no reported medical defects or medical issues contributed to the 3D/4D ultrasounds. Medical studies show no increased risk of a 3D/4D ultrasound in comparison to a 2D ultrasound. Two dimensional ultrasound pose no documented risks to the fetus or the mother.

Prevention/Solution

To help reduce the mild risks associated with 3D/4D ultrasounds be sure to have a physician or a certified ultrasound tech who is familiar with 3D/4D ultrasounds. Most states do not require that 3D/4D ultrasound centers employ certified technicians. Limit your 3D/4D ultrasounds to once a trimester, if the physician requires you to have frequent ultrasounds, use 2D ultrasounds.

Potential

Slowly, 3D/4D ultrasounds are replacing 2D ultrasounds. Many hospitals throughout the United States offer 3D/4D ultrasounds as a courtesy to patients. As of mid-2009, 3D ultrasounds are not yet covered by flexible spending accounts, but may soon be as more medical evidence shows the benefits of having a 3D/4D ultrasound. Since 3D/4D ultrasounds are effective in determining heart anomalies in a fetus, it's expected to be covered by health insurance in the future. Medical studies show that 3D/4D ultrasounds will play a role in neurological and behavioral testing of the fetus to help diagnose or rule out cerebral palsy.

Tags: dimensional ultrasound, intensity ultrasound, intensity ultrasound waves, Medical studies, Medical studies show

Medical Technical Colleges

Nurses, administrators and EMTs are considered medical technicians in most health care arenas.

The world of medicine would be nothing without the hands behind the technology. Medical technicians are some of the most valuable employees in the world of medicine because they are the ones who know how the technology works and operate the machinery. To become a medical technician, you must attend a special school where you can learn the ins and outs of medical technology and its practical application.

ATA College

Located in Louisville, Ken., ATA College offers programs in dental assistance, medical assistance, medical coding, medical laboratory tech, medical office assistance, medical radiography, practical nursing and phlebotomy. These occupations have a high demand for people skilled in the medical field. Though these technician positions do not earn as much as physicians, there is just as much demand for these jobs because of how expansive the medical world is. Students get to work with the technology of their field in a hands-on environment with professional techs from all fields.

The American Institute of Alternative Medicine

The American Institute of Alternative Medicine of Columbus, Ohio, offers technical training in practical nursing, massage therapy, acupuncture and medical assistance. These programs are used in conjunction with many medical procedures and recovery programs, so jobs are abundant with any one of these degrees. Students can enjoy relaxed classes with ample instruction from recognized authorities in these four fields. Students also have the opportunity to intern at local medical facilities to get a better understanding of the technical side of medicine.

Hallmark College of Technology

Located in San Antonio, Calif., the Hallmark College of Technology offers courses in medical assistance, health care information and medical coding. Students at the Hallmark College of Technology learn the basics of each one of these fields as well as study to obtain their two-year degree in one of them specifically. Students also learn the basics of massage therapy and recovery assistance so they can be more effective at the jobs as medical assistants and technicians.

The Salter School of Nursing and Allied Heath

The Salter School of Nursing and Allied Health is in Manchester, N.H., and offers courses in licensed practical nursing, assitsant nursing, IV therapy, and IV registration, all of which fall under the category of medical technology. Students learn medical technology as well as core class requirements for a two-year degree. At the end of their studies, students have the option to be interned at local hospitals to get hands-on experience in their technical training.

Tags: assistance medical, College Technology, Hallmark College, Hallmark College Technology, medical assistance

Different Kinds Of Moths

There are about 10 times more moth species than butterfly species.

According to Bug Guide, there are about 165,000 moth species in the world. There are more types of moths than butterflies, also in the lepidoptera order. Moths can range anywhere from small, unassuming and brown, to large and colorful. To help with identification, moths are divided into families that boast different kinds of moths.

Saturniidae Family

The Saturniidae family includes 1,000 species of the largest and most colorful moths. This family notably includes silk moths, which are quite large.They have wingspans of up to 6 inches, according to Backyard Nature. Silk moths gained their namesake due to the fact they wrap their cocoons in silk. When the cocoons are gathered and boiled, the silk can be unwound and treated to make clothing and accessories. The luna moth, a type of silk moth, is found in the U.S., Mexico and sometimes in Canada. According to Project Silk Moth, you can find these light green moths on white birch, alder or beech trees. The rosy maple moth, another member of the Saturniidae family, has a soft rosy color on its wings. According to Backyard Nature, the rosy maple moth has a wingspan of up to 2 inches. This moth likes to reside on maple trees in the U.S. and southern Canada.

Arctiidae Family

This family is diverse and has around 11,000 species, with almost half of them being neotropical. Most famously, the tiger moth is part of this family. The tiger moth is found in southeastern Canada and has bright colors and markings. According to Zipcode Zoo, many species in this family have "hairy" caterpillars. The neighbor moth, another member of the Arctiidae family and the species contigua, has bold wing patterns in black and white. This patterning serves as camouflage, making it difficult for predators to see the moth clearly. This moth is found in North America, notably Arkansas, Ohio and North Carolina.

Sphingidae Family

There are about 1,000 members of the Sphingidae family found in the world, including South and Central America and southern parts of the U.S. Hawkmoths, also known as sphinx moths, are the most notable in this family. The pink-spotted hawkmoth feeds on nectar with a protruding proboscis. These moths gain their sphinx namesake because they have large larvae that hold their bodies erect in a sphinx-like position. Hawkmoths are robust fliers and, according to Nature Haven, have been seen out at sea.

Lymantriidae Family

This family consists of 2,500 members worldwide. Most notably, the gypsy moth resides in North America. They were introduced in the 19th century, having escaped from being brought over for the purpose of silk production. Today, gypsy moths are considered pests in North American forests. Gypsy moths vary in color and pattern depending on gender. Females have a white or creamy color, while males are dark brown. Male gypsy moths also fly in the daytime, while the females rarely fly at all.

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Become A Radiologic Tech

The medical field continues to be a source of steady employment for those seeking a rewarding and potentially lucrative career. One area where people are needed is radiologic technology. Among the things that radiologic techs are responsible for are taking X-rays, maintaining radiological medical equipment, doing MRIs and CTs on patients and doing other various tasks for diagnostic purposes. They can work in private clinics, hospitals or mobile medical units. Here are the requirements that must be met if you want to enter this profession.

Instructions

1. Be aware that being a radiologic tech is a job that involves long hours and a lot of hard work. Determine whether or not you are willing to put in the amount of commitment and responsibility that it takes to be a part of this field of medicine. Since you will be working around radiation, there may be some risks involved, as well.

2. Get a good background in science and math when you are still in high school, and earn high grades in those areas. Classes you should take include geometry, algebra, physical science and biology. You must graduate from high school in order to get training as a radiologic tech.

3. Speak with experienced radiologic techs to get an idea of what you can expect, in terms of job description, pay, future advancement possibilities and more. Those who are already working in the field can give you a more realistic picture of what radiologic technology is all about.

4. Apply for enrollment in a radiologic technology program at an accredited institution. The time period can be from 2 to 4 years, depending on whether you want to obtain a certificate, an Associate's or Bachelor's degree. Be aware that standards tend to be high for admission.

5. Take the registration examination for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (see Resources below). Once you have passed this exam, you are ready to work.

6. Start applying to hospitals and private clinics. Understand that they are not only looking for radiologic techs who are competent, but they also seek individuals who can communicate well, are self-motivated and have compassion for others.

7. Make certain that you are always current regarding your certification. You have to apply for re-certification every 2 years, which involves your having to take and complete a specified number of hours of continuing education coursework. Neglecting to do this can jeopardize your certification, and you will have to go through the process of taking the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists exam again.

8. Join a professional organization composed of other radiologic techs, where you can find professional resources, advice, information and more to enhance your career (see Resources below).

Tags: radiologic techs, radiologic technology, American Registry, American Registry Radiologic, aware that

Army Predeployment Training

Soldiers begin pre-deployment training up to one year before deployment.

Army pre-deployment training consists of physical exercise, tactical planning and technical training designed to prepare soldiers for the rigors of combat. Most Army pre-deployment training takes place at a soldier's home duty station. However, deploying soldiers must train for up to four weeks at the Army's National Training Center (NTC) at Fort Irwin, California, in harsh desert conditions designed to simulate combat situations in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Benefits

Oppositional Forces (OP-FORs) dress like the nationals of Iraq and Afghanistan to make Army pre-deployment training more realistic.

Fort Irwin is situated in the Mojave Desert. Weather conditions are similar to those in Iraq and Afghanistan, and soldiers become acclimated to desert weather during training. Members of the military and civilians are hired by the Army to act as oppositional forces (OP-FORs) to simulate combat situations for training purposes. OP-FORs dress, speak and behave like nationals in Iraq and Afghanistan to ease soldiers' transition to a combat environment.

Time Frame

NTC's terrain is similar to Iraq and Afghanistan.

Soldiers spend three to four weeks at NTC conducting Army pre-deployment training. Week one is spent preparing for rigorous training that takes place during weeks two and three. Weeks two and three consist of soldiers setting up makeshift campsites, sleeping in trucks, conducting live-fire training and participating in simulated combat situations. Week four is dedicated to administrative paperwork, clean-up and shipping of training materials back to soldiers' home stations.

Size

Fort Irwin spans more than 642,000 acres of the Mojave Desert and can accommodate several Army brigades at one time. During training periods, NTC may house up to 5,000 soldiers.

Dangers

Clouds are rare at NTC and offer little protection against extreme sun exposure.

Soldiers conducting Army pre-deployment training at NTC are at risk for dehydration, snake and spider bites, and scorpion stings. There is little protection from sun, wind or temperature change. Daytime temperatures may soar above 120 degrees F while nighttime temperatures drop into the 50s during summer months. Average winter temperatures range from 8 to 70 degrees F.

Training Exercises

Soldiers training at NTC conduct live-fire rifle marksmanship courses.

Soldiers conducting Army pre-deployment training at NTC participate in convoy live-fire ranges, mountainside ruck marches, extended runs (in excess of eight miles) and set up camp at various locations in the Mojave Desert. Soldiers are subjected to random day- and nighttime assaults by OP-FORs designed to simulate real-time combat situations.

Tags: pre-deployment training, Army pre-deployment, Army pre-deployment training, Iraq Afghanistan, combat situations, conducting Army

Tech Colleges Near Augusta Ga

Augusta, Georgia is approximately 139 miles southwest of Charlotte, North Carolina, and 150 miles west of Atlanta, Georgia. Home of the four-year Augusta State University, the city of Augusta is also within 30 minutes of a number of technical colleges. These public, two-year institutions grant certificates and degrees that can lead to employment in some of the industries identified as the largest in Augusta by city-data.com, such as healthcare, construction and education.

Augusta Technical College

Augusta Technical College opened in 1961 and adopted its present name in 2000. The school has its accreditation through the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The school offers programs in 46 different fields, including occupational therapy assisting, golf course management, nuclear engineering technology and machining. Numerous classes are available online.

Eligible students at Augusta Technical College can receive from federal and state loans and grants, institutional scholarships, veterans' benefits and work-study placements. The Career Services department holds regular job fairs and helps students with writing resumes and practicing for interviews. The college serves as home to 14 student organizations, the majority of which are professional groups related to specific career programs offered at the school, such as the American Association of Medical Assistants.

Georgia Military College

The Georgia Military College opened in 1879 and has six campuses throughout the state of Georgia, including its Augusta branch in Martinez, Georgia. Located along Davis Road, the campus is just six miles from Augusta (about 14 minutes by automobile). In 2010, Washington Monthly rated the Georgia Military College system the 12th best community college in the United States. Accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, college grants Associate of Science, Associate of Arts and Associate of Applied Science degrees in more than 12 fields including homeland security and emergency management and computer information systems.

Georgia Military College participates in federal and state financial aid programs and also offers institutional scholarships and work-study opportunities. The Augusta campus is home to seven student groups and clubs, including a newspaper, chess club and student government association. The college also has intramural sports teams.

Aiken Technical College

Aiken Technical College is in Graniteville, Georgia, approximately 12 miles from Augusta (about 21 minutes by automobile). The technical college has an enrollment of approximately 3,400 students each year with an additional 10,000 completing classes through the school's continuing education program. Academic programs at the college culminate in associate degrees, diplomas or certificates in more than 70 courses of study. Uncommonly-taught programs offered at the college include radiation protection technology, gerontology, computer game design, Internet programming and marketing. For distance learning, the college offers online classes, digital satellite television classes and live, two-way courses conducted over the Internet.

Among the financial aid options available to students at Aiken Technical College are veterans benefits, government loans and grants, work-study and scholarships. The college also offers a payment plan. The school has a men's basketball and women's softball team.

Tags: Georgia Military, Georgia Military College, Military College, Aiken Technical, Aiken Technical College

The Average Medicare Part D Premium

Medicare Part D requires a premium.

Medicare developed an option for prescription drug coverage on Jan. 1, 2007: Medicare Part D. This coverage is optional to anyone who qualifies for Medicare, receiving disability from Social Security or who has renal disease.

Part D Premium

Medicare Part D's monthly premium averages approximately $30. For qualified individuals who cannot afford the premium, programs are available for low-income individuals. A single individual's income must be less than $16,245 and a married couple's income must be less than $21,855.

Additional Costs

Medicare Part D, in addition to the monthly premium, also requires a deductible of $310 to be met before coverage is extended. Once the deductible is met, the plan will pay 75 percent and the insured will be responsible for 25 percent.

Payment

Payment of the monthly premiums can be made several different ways. The premium can be deducted from your Social Security checks, charged to a credit card, billed monthly, or paid through a checking or savings account.

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Difference Between Radial & Bilateral

Sponges are the only type of animals without radial or bilateral symmetry.

In the animal kingdom, there are three primary types of symmetry. Asymmetry, no symmetry at all, exists only in the simplest animals, which are considered sponges. Radial symmetry, symmetry along multiple planes, exists in cnidarians. Bilateral symmetry, symmetry along one sole plane, exists in creatures as simple as flatworms and in those as complex as humans.

Radial Symmetry

Radial symmetry is rotational symmetry that focuses around a point known as the center. This means that everything at the same distance from the center is the same. Organisms with radial symmetry can be cut in half in multiple places and the two resulting bodies would be exactly the same. Radial symmetry can be divided into two distinct classes. Cyclic symmetry has only rotational symmetry, while dihedral symmetry has rotational symmetry and reflection symmetry, a phenomenon in which two sides exactly mirror one another.

Examples of Radial Symmetry

Animals such as starfish can be cut evenly along multiple planes.

Radial symmetry is most often seen in animals in the cnidarian phylum, which includes more than 9,000 species of animals that live in aquatic environments. Perhaps the best known example of radial symmetry is a starfish. Starfish have dihedral symmetry with legs spanning out and forming an even pentagon-like shape. Another example of radial symmetry exists in jellyfish. They can be cut evenly along six different planes. Plants such as the hibiscus occasionally have radial symmetry as well. At times, radial symmetry in plants is harder to detect because parts of the plant may cover up visible traces of radial symmetry.

Bilateral Symmetry

Bilateral symmetry did not evolve on Earth until well after the birth of radial symmetry animals. Animals with bilateral symmetry can only be evenly cut down one plane, as opposed to the multiple planes in radial symmetry. Usually, the cut exists along the longitudinal axis of the animal. The longitudinal axis typically extends from an animal's mouth to its tail-end.

Examples of Bilateral Symmetry

Human faces display bilateral symmetry.

Bilateral symmetry exists in all animals that are not classified as sponges, which do not have any type of symmetry, or cnidarians. Examples of organisms that do have bilateral symmetry include animals classified as flatworms, mollusks, annelids, roundworms, arthropods, echinoderms and chordates. A good example of an animal with bilateral symmetry is an opossum. If it were cut down its back, the resulting bodies would be exactly the same. Larger species such as elephants and humans also have bilateral symmetry along their backs.

Tags: multiple planes, radial symmetry, rotational symmetry, symmetry along, symmetry exists, would exactly same

Health Care In The United States

Health care in the United States has both its positive and negative aspects. On one hand, people in the United States have access to some of the most cutting-edge medical treatments on earth; on the other hand, many people don't have insurance to cover the costs of even the most basic health care needs. By keeping a good eye on the fine print in their health plans and keeping their jobs, Americans can often cover their personal health care costs, but rising prices and changes in employment patterns make this harder to do.

Identification

The United States does not offer universal health care coverage; approximately 85 percent of United States citizens have health insurance. Most people pay for their health care through either a health insurance company or government-sponsored health insurance, although the popularity of boutique medicine---in which patients pay a set fee for access to a doctor---is growing, and people who either cannot afford insurance or want treatments or physicians not covered by their plan must pay out of pocket.

Insurance

Over half of the people in the United States receive insurance through their job or a spouse or parent's job; the employer covers some of the cost, and the employee then pays a monthly fee. The government covers medical insurance for the elderly, federal employees, military members and veterans and some people with low income. Individuals can directly purchase insurance plans, but these tend to be expensive.

Plans

There are two major types of United States health insurance plans. A health management organization (HMO) has a lower fee, and patients pay less per doctor's visit, but members must visit their primary doctor for any problem they might have. The primary doctor then must write a referral to another doctor within the HMO. Preferred provider organizations (PPOs) have higher fees, but members can visit a specialist without a referral. Both types of plan only provide coverage for physicians that are in the health insurance plan's network.

Problems

The complicated nature of the United States health care system masks one basic problem: affordability. The link between employment and insurance makes it difficult for the unemployed or self-employed to afford medical care. In addition, the rising cost of health care makes it harder for employers to provide health care to their employees. Some employers hire part-time or freelance workers instead of full-time employees to dodge health care benefit costs. Insurers can also be lax in fulfilling claims. Some physicians take few insurance plans or drop insurance altogether because insurers refuse to pay up. Many people also have problems affording prescription drugs not covered by their health care plans.

Research

While the United States health care system may not be especially efficient at providing care to patients, the United States is a leader in health research, with large amounts of money spent on developing medical innovations. Most of this money comes from the for-profit health care industry. Non-profit foundations and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), a government institution funded by taxpayers, provide other funding, although cuts in NIH funding have lessened that agency's role in research.

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Difference Between Correspondence & Distance Education

Distance and correspondence learning offer educational options.

Correspondence and distance learning have both improved the lives of many individuals. These education-based programs allow students to actively learn new information and gain skills in fields of interest without spending time in the classroom or commuting back and forth to a school. Both education options are cost effective if the student is interested in getting a specific vocational education more quickly than with traditional two- and four-year programs.

Identification

Correspondence education offers certificate, diploma and degree programs for people who want to enhance their current career or change careers without spending years to do so and without going to a brick and mortar college. The school sends materials through the mail, and the student uses the information to learn at his own time and pace. There is no time limit for completion of classes or programs. Students access professors via telephone, email or online chat. Distance learning is a more advanced educational program typically conducted via the Internet using school-based programs. Students order materials such as books and use online classrooms and email for communication. Many -- but not all -- distance learning programs are affiliated with actual colleges or universities. It is common for these educational options to offer associate, bachelor's, master's and even Ph.D. programs depending on the school's accreditation.

Schools

A variety of schools offer both correspondence and distance learning programs. A common correspondence program frequently used is the U.S. Career Institute. The school offers certificate programs such as child day care specialist, medical coding, massage therapy, paralegal, home inspection or certified fitness trainer. Students can also choose an associate degree option in accounting, human resources or social work. The U.S. Career Institute has been in service since 1981. An example of a distance learning program is the one offered by the University of Iowa. The school offers both bachelor's and master's programs, including nursing, social work, business and education. The University of Iowa offers both on-campus and distance learning. A school that offers only distance learning options is Capella University. Capella is an accredited school that offers bachelor's, master's and Ph.D. programs in areas such as psychology, business, computers, education and public service.

Facts

Many correspondence schools do not offer government financial aid assistance but have in-house payment options for tuition. A large number of distance learning programs, including the University of Iowa and Capella University, accept federal financial aid. Because correspondence courses typically do not accept financial aid, cost per semester is significantly lower than distance learning or face-to-face coursework. Choose the program that works best for you; consider schools that offer the program you desire, and ask whether you can transfer credits to a different school. Distance learning often offers credit transfer programs and accepts credit transfers other schools.

Considerations

Correspondence and distance education limit face-to-face interaction and hands-on experience. If you are a student who needs motivation and specific time lines, you may have trouble with these types of instruction because many classes are set up to allow you to work at your own pace or attend classes online when you want to. Taking correspondence and distance courses requires self-discipline, motivation and time-management skills.

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Get A Microcurrent Facelift From Ultrasound Facials

Get a Microcurrent Facelift From Ultrasound Facials

The thought of getting a microcurrent facelift from ultrasound facials may seem a bit high tech and complicated. Microcurrent facial treatments were successful medical procedures before becoming popular as non-surgical cosmetic enhancements. It's effective in slowing down the aging process and helps you put your best face forward. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Determine your reasons for wanting a microcurrent facelift and your expectations for results. Some people use it to strengthen their facial muscles after neurological problems, such as a stroke, and others want to reduce wrinkles and scars.

2. Choose a qualified practitioner. A licensed esthetician is preferable because they've completed up to 1,000 credit hours of study in skin care, nine months of job training and successfully passed a state board examination.

3. Calculate the total price of getting a microcurrent facelift from ultrasound facials. Practitioners recommend between 10 and 15 sessions for best results and monthly visits thereafter, as needed, easily pushing your investment to well over $600.

4. Learn what to expect during microcurrent facelift sessions. The esthetician will massage a moisturizer into your skin and follow up with the ultra sound machine. You'll feel a warm vibration as the esthetician strokes an attachment over your face to lift the skin, circulate the blood, banish toxins and leave your complexion refreshed.

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