Hospital Radiation Safety Education Requirements

The radiation staff may observe the brain or other parts of the human body.

Hospitals typically perform radiation procedures and radiation therapy. A team of radiation therapists will perform these types of procedures on patients. They use radiation to treat or heal cancer or tumors. Radiation can also look for any hidden health problems the patient may have. Hospitals must undergo certain educational requirements to ensure the safety of their patients and staff when performing radiation procedures.

Training Staff

Those who enter the field of radiation must go through a rigorous hands-on training session. This training typically occurs at the hospital. The hospital must provide five types of training: principles of radiation protection; radiation measurements and monitoring; proper working conditions and compliance with regulations; radiation risks; and exposure limits and biological effects, according to the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

Hospitals also provide other types of training programs to increase safety with radiation. Training often includes safely administer radiation, reporting unsafe conditions, potential hazards and licensing requirements. Those who want to perform radiation must hold a state license.

Rules and Procedures

The radiation staff must make sure that they are using the tools and equipment safely. They should know administer the radiation to their patients. This can help lower the risks and effects of radiation. The staff should also protect both themselves and their patients when administering the radiation. This means covering any body parts that could have exposure. This also helps prevent the spread of radiation from one person to another.

Other rules and regulations include having the patient remove any jewelry or metal accessories that may interfere with the radiation procedure. The radiation staff should also maintain proper storage and handling of the radiation tools and equipment once the procedure is over.

Annual Safety Training

Hospitals must maintain annual safety training with their radiation staff. Another name for these regulations is ALARA, or As Low As Reasonably Achievable. These regulations are broken up by time, shielding, distance and controlling contamination. Time includes knowing the necessary amount of time to use radiation on the exposed area. Shielding includes providing protection to patients and radiation staff. Distance education involves applying a radioactive substance at a greater distance, and controlling contamination means using protective equipment to keep contamination off of the patients' bodies. The radiation staff would use absorbent pads on the patient, while wearing lab coats and gloves to protect themselves. The radiation staff must learn these safety procedures in order to provide a safe radiation procedure to their patients.

Tags: radiation staff, their patients, administer radiation, controlling contamination, distance controlling

Lcd Vs Plasma Vs Crt Tv

Television manufacturers are looking for the newest and best technology to create the top TVs on the market. As of 2009, LCD and plasma screens are the two best-selling types of flat screen TVs, presenting an upgrade over older CRT models.

LCD

LCD is short for liquid crystal display, in which the screen is comprised of hundreds of thousands of pixels between two polarizing filters. The subpixels within those provide color and create the picture by their reaction to light passed through them.

Plasma

In plasma screens, a mixture of gases between glass panels forms the plasma, which excites phosphors to emit light and create the picture. The technology needed for this limits plasmas to larger screen sizes of 40 inches or more.

CRT

CRT TVs are an older technology, featuring a cathode ray tube with electrons and a fluorescent light, with three separate color components that are converged to give the picture its proper color. Manufactures have moved beyond CRTs in favor of LCD, plasma and, in newer rear-projection TVs, digital light processing.

Size

With plasmas only available in larger sizes (40- to 65-inch being most popular), LCD has an edge for people looking for a smaller HDTV, with models available as small as 15 inches. Before LCD and plasma, CRT was available in a wide variety of sizes.

Picture Quality

LCD and plasma provide sharper, more dynamic video than CRT, with brighter colors and a wider viewing angle. Between the newer types, plasma offers deeper blacks, greater contrast and react better to fast-moving images, while LCD can be seen better in brightly lit rooms.

Price

In stores, with CRT no longer an option, plasma screens are generally a bit lower priced than LCD in comparable-sized models, though with LCDs available in smaller sizes, it means many models are available at lower prices than can be found with plasma.

Tags: plasma screens, create picture, models available

Pennsylvania Health Insurance Coverage Laws

Understand how the health insurance coverage laws in Pennsylvania can affect you.

Health insurance in Pennsylvania is subject to specific laws. It's important that you understand the laws in Pennsylvania because they could affect your application for insurance, and whether or not you can keep your insurance in force.

Preexisting Conditions

Health insurance companies in Pennsylvania can exclude preexisting conditions. This means that if you have a preexisting condition, such as an illness like diabetes, the health insurance company can refuse treatment for your condition. Pennsylvania health insurers can attach riders to policies to permanently exclude a health condition also. In addition, pregnancy is allowed to be excluded as a preexisting condition. Health insurance companies are not required to use your old policy's exclusion period to credit your new policy's exclusion period.

Guaranteed Renewability

Your health insurance company cannot refuse to renew your policy due to health reasons. Once you already have coverage, health insurers in Pennsylvania must give you the option to renew as long as you've paid all of your premium payments. This is significant because it means that you can continue coverage even if you are ill.

Health Ratings

You can be rated for your health in Pennsylvania. Even though insurance companies cannot deny your renewal, they can increase your premiums based on your health. This means that, if you renew your policy and you are ill, the insurance company can raise your premiums significantly. If you cannot afford your insurance, you will have to drop coverage.

Tags: your policy, insurance companies, insurance company, means that, exclusion period, Health insurance companies, health insurance company

How Does Insurance Coverage Affect Access And Utilization Of Health Care

In today's health care market, a physician merely taking a patient's pulse requires insurance.

With the high costs of health care, most people in the United States, if asked, could not pay for an office visit or surgical procedure out of their own pockets; this is where health insurance comes in. However, with this coverage, the insurance company can controls patients' access to medical services. Common sense suggests that someone with insurance coverage will be more likely to access provider services which, in turn, increases utilization.

Limited Access without Insurance

If patients cannot afford to pay for medical services, either out-of-pocket or through insurance, health care providers can refuse to treat them. While most not-for-profit hospitals are required to provide some charity care to the poor or uninsured, in order keep their not-for-profit status, private practice physicians have no such restrictions. Accordingly, the absence of insurance can bar patients from receiving medical services.

Conditional Access with Insurance

Having insurance is not a guarantee of access. Different kinds of insurance set conditions on when, where and from whom access to medical services will be granted, such as HMO and MCO. Less restrictive is PPO coverage, where the patient must pay more but receives more choices in return; and Fee For Service (FFS) arrangements are made between the provider and patient when insurance coverage is not in place.

Health Maintenance Organization (HMO)

An HMO only treats those patients who are members of its health plan. The HMO's contract for care delivery with patients guarantees access to a primary care physician (PCP), who then determines access to specialists or hospitals. Each patient's primary care physician acts as a "gatekeeper" in this regard. Without the PCP's authorization, patients may be denied specialty care. Primary care physicians' financial compensation incentives are a factor affecting physicians' restricting patient access to specialty or experimental care.

Managed Care Organization (MCO)

Unlike HMOs, access to diagnosis and treatment with MCO insurance is determined by "formularies," which are lists of allowed treatments and prescription medications. Only those treatments specifically listed on the MCO's formularies are allowed. Other care and treatments are specifically not covered, and their cost will not be paid by the MCO.

Preferred Provider Organization (PPO)

A less restrictive and more open form of insurance coverage, in terms of access, is a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO). The patient does not have to select a gatekeeper PCP or use a list of formularies, but he does have to pay more for the privilege of using any doctor for any reason. There is a deductible which must be met yearly before the insurance begins to pay a percentage of the treatment cost. Moreover, the patient must pay extra to see a provider who is not in the plan's network of participating providers.

Contract Between Patient and Provider (FFS)

Before the advent of insurance, the original medical care delivery system was an arrangement between doctor and patient. Today, that system is called Fee For Service (FFS). The patient requests medical services. The doctor provides services. The doctor sends a bill. Although there are few insurance contracts today which cover patients on a Fee For Service basis, these arrangements can be made directly with the health provider's billing office, which charges the patient a "private pay" rate. This rate is the lowest price the provider will accept for a procedure without insurance reimbursement.

Relationship Among Insurance, Access and Utilization

While having insurance provides a means of paying for medical services, insurance coverage does not always guarantee access to services. However, without access to services, utilization is not possible.

Tags: medical services, health care, insurance coverage, access medical, access medical services

Youth Employment Training

Youth employment training educates youth about the workplace.

Youth employment training educates youth about the world of work and teaches basic on-the-job skills. It also educates youth on write resumes and cover letters, and prepares them for the job application and interviewing process. Youth employment training also provides outreach services to at-risk youth to teach them the job and leadership skills necessary to build self-confidence. When necessary, youth employment training programs also serve as liaisons between the job market and youth.

Work Etiquette

Work etiquette is one of the basic skills taught through youth employment training. It emphasizes a regular, on-time presence at work, basic courtesy skills when speaking to a supervisor and co-workers, the proper use of work community facilities such as a kitchen, and handle work-related disputes. Youth employment training also emphasizes beneficial work habits such as organizational skills and time management.

On-the-Job Skills

Practical job skills such as money handling, using a time clock, opening and closing a retail business, customer service and computer use are all skills youths can learn through employment training. These skills are taught by example, such as when staff members model the job skill, and by having the youth participants role play using these skills. Youth employment training attempts to match individuals with jobs in their areas of interest once they have learned basic job skills.

Bridge Academic and Occupational Learning

Youth employment training programs aim to bridge academic learning and occupational learning. The training programs build on basic academic skills; for example, a training may implement basic math skills to teach youth manage money at work, or it may use computer skills to instruct youth on assist in taking a store inventory. It may also use leadership skills gained at school to train youth to provide positive customer service and problem-solving resolutions.

Job Search Skills

Youth hone job search skills in employment training. They learn where to look for entry-level jobs, practice filling out job applications, writing resumes and answering interview questions. Youth employment trainers act as mentors and coaches, and encourage program participants, provide feedback on learned skills and answer any questions regarding the employment process.

Grants and Job Development

Youth employment training programs are often funded by government programs or grants. These training programs also spend a great deal of time reaching out to local communities to encourage job development and to educate the public on the benefits of employing youth.

Tags: employment training, training programs, Youth employment training, educates youth, employment training programs, Youth employment

Pc Technician Schools

PC technicians are entry-level positions in the information technology industry.

Personal computer technicians must know install and configure various software programs for computers, address computer problems that may arise, perform virus and computer scans, configure computers for a network and a complete a variety of other support services for the office worker. While some people can learn these skills on-the-job, a good paying job that may lead to advanced positions requires schooling. There are a variety of schools across the U.S. that offer certification or degree programs.

Coleman University

Founded in 1963 as a technical school, Coleman University is a nationally-recognized leader in the information technology field. Teaching students for 46 years, early coursework included studies in computer technology, court reporting and business, medical office and secretarial studies. Today Coleman University is an accredited college and offers diverse coursework that includes a variety of programs for certificates, associate's degrees, bachelor's and master degree programs in graphics design, network security, information systems and computer networking. Located in San Diego, California, Coleman University has two campuses in San Diego county and offers online programs and a 10-month program for personal computer support. Financing and scholarship as well as job placement are available.

Coleman University

8888 Balboa Avenue

San Diego, CA 92123-1506

858-499-0202

coleman.edu/

Wright Career College

Wright Career College has campuses in Tulsa, Kansas City and Oklahoma City and provides personal computer technician and software training diploma programs. The PC tech course teaches students fundamental computer knowledge for entry-level jobs. Students learn desktop support, office computer skills and must pass the A+ Certification Exam. Potential students may benefit from prior software and or networking experience. General admission requirements include graduation from high school or a general education diploma or certification; financial aid is available as well as night and evening classes. The program can be completed in three semesters and job placement is available upon completion.

Wright Career College

10975 El Monte Street

Leawood, KS

913-385-7700

wrightcareercollege.com

Lincoln Technical Institute

Based on the East Coast, Lincoln Technical Institute provides a variety of courses and career paths for the student interested in computer technology. The PC support technician will learn all about help desk and support concepts, operating systems and networking. Students also learn troubleshooting techniques, the essentials of network design and address issues with computer hardware and software. The school offers financial assistance programs and job placement upon graduation.

Lincoln Technical Institute, Inc.

Corporate Office

Street: 200 Executive Drive

West Orange, NJ 07052-3388

973-736-9340

lincolnedu.com

Tags: Coleman University, Career College, Lincoln Technical, Lincoln Technical Institute, Technical Institute, Wright Career

Technical Schools In Gwinnett County Georgia

Technical schools in Gwinnett County train students for jobs in the regional workforce.

In 2011, Gwinnett County is the fastest growing country in Georgia with new high-tech and health-related businesses and industries settling in the affluent suburb of Atlanta every year. A variety of technical schools in the area provide training to prepare students for jobs in the county's growing workforce.

Gwinnett Technical College

Gwinnett Technical College in Lawrenceville offers more than 45 associate degree and professional certificates programs. Founded in 1984, Gwinnett Tech is now one of the largest technical colleges in the state. In addition to traditional tech programs in computer science, automotive services, welding and business technology, students can choose programs tailored to meet jobs requirements in the hospitality, construction and veterinary industries. Gwinnett Tech's bioscience programs prepare students for careers in health-related fields such as radiology, respiratory therapy, dental care and nursing. In 2006, the school launched an early education program that trains students in childcare and child development and offers daycare services for 250 local children.

Alliance Care Academy

Alliance Care Academy in Duluth prepares students for jobs as certified nurse assistants. The 96-hour course teaches the fundamental skills needed to care for patients in hospitals, nursing homes and hospices. Students learn practical skills such as nutrition planning, dementia care, respiratory management and other personal care techniques such as bathing patients.The course includes 24-hours of hands-on training at a health care facility and extensive prep work for the state certification exam. The academy is student-friendly with courses starting every week and classes offered in the evening and on Saturdays. In addition to the CNA program, the academy offers courses in first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, blood-borne pathogens and home care .

Gwinnett College

Gwinnett College opened its doors in 1976 to train students interested in secretarial careers in the heath care industry. Today, the Lawrenceville-based school offers 11 different programs geared toward preparing students for jobs in medical, legal and business fields. Associate degree and diploma programs in medical assisting are clinically based, and graduates are qualified to take state exams to become certified medical assistants, EKG technicians or phlebotomy technicians. Computer operations and information management programs prepare students for entry-level jobs that use technology as a management tool. Gwinnett College also offers a degree and diploma program for students interested in careers as paralegals and legal administrative assistants.

Gwinnett Dental Academy

Gwinnett Dental Academy in Lawrenceville offers students the training needed for an entry-level job in a dental office. The 10-week course focuses on basic skills needed to assist dentists and dental hygienists, including the sterilization of instruments. Students work with a practicing dentist on essential aspects of chairside care while studying the fundamentals of oral health, dental charting and dental radiology. The course also covers anesthetics, infection management and head, neck and tooth anatomy. The academy describes this course as a "stepping stone" that allows students to enter the workforce and see if a career in dental care is the right choice.

Tags: students jobs, Gwinnett College, Gwinnett County, prepare students, Alliance Care

Breast Lift & Pain

Some pain is to be expected after breast lift surgery.

Breast lift surgery or mastopexy is considered a major surgery. According to Connal Breast Surgery, chest tightness, stiffness, burning or intermittent shooting pains "are normal experiences as the skin, muscles and tissue stretch to accommodate your implants and as sensory nerves heal." Pain medications will be administered, but long-term or consistent sharp pain will need to be reported to the surgeon.

Sensitivity

Nipples and breasts may become more sensitive after mastopexy surgery. Patients may observe small amounts of milk or fluid leaking from the breasts, but this will slowly resolve itself. If drainage is excessive, the surgeon should be contacted.

Discomfort

According to YesTheyreFake.net, "discomfort and soreness is what is most often described by patients." Pain medication generally will help keep pain manageable. Pain that is unbearable even with medication should be reported to the surgeon.

Sensations of Heaviness

Breasts may be feel heavier when standing, sitting or lying after a breast lift. The change in position can affect how the breast feels in relation to the body. This feeling usually will fade within two to four weeks.

Shiny Skin

The skin of the breast will swell after surgery; this is considered normal. If the skin becomes hot to the touch, the surgeon should immediately be contacted, as it may signal an infection. Benadryl may help reduce swelling, but should be discussed with the surgeon prior to taking the medication.

Itching

The breast and incision area may itch as the breasts heal. Generally this is considered to be normal. Itching may be mild or severe, but is usually not a sign of a problem.

Important Precautions

Wearing surgical bras or bras recommended by the surgeon will reduce the likelihood of severe pain. If supportive bandages are taken off, patients may experience elevated pain and discomfort. Following the surgeon's instructions is very important.

Tags: after breast, after breast lift, breast lift, considered normal, lift surgery, reported surgeon

Radiology Therapy Salary

About 15,000 radiation therapists and 214,000 radiologic techs worked in 2009.

"Radiology therapy" is an accidental combination of two careers, one which can lead to the other: radiologic technologist and radiation therapist. Radiologic technologists typically complete two-year courses of study, usually earning associate degrees, to perform imaging diagnostics on patients, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. A technologist who wants to further her career can return to school for one year to become a radiation therapist. Radiation therapists administer radiation to patients with cancer.

Radiologic Technologist National Salary

In 2009, at the time of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics job survey, radiologic technologists were earning about $26 an hour on average across the nation, which comes to an annual salary of $54,000. The top-earning 10 percent made $36 an hour or $75,000 a year while the lowest-earning 10 percent made $17 an hour or $36,000 a year.

Highs and Lows

The national average created by the figures compiled by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics is a combination of salaries across the country, which fluctuated dramatically in 2009. While radiologic technologists in Alabama were averaging $21 an hour and $45,000 a year, their counterparts in Maryland were earning $32 an hour or $66,000 a year. Where a person lives has a big impact on the salary she can command.

Radiation Therapist National Salary

The same 2009 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics survey showed radiation therapists from coast to coast earning an average of $37 an hour or $77,000 a year. The lowest-earning 10 percent were bringing home $24 an hour or $50,000 a year, while the top-earning 10 percent were making about $51 an hour or $107,000 a year.

Highs and Lows

Once again, these national figures are a combination of the fluctuating highs and lows from across the country. In 2009, radiation therapists were bringing in $26 an hour and $54,000 a year in Idaho, and in North Dakota were making $28 an hour and $59,000 a year. Just a few states away, therapists in Colorado were averaging $39 an hour and $82,000 a year. The highest-paid state for radiation therapists in 2009 was South Carolina at $46 an hour and $97,000 a year.

Tags: hour year, Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics, Labor Statistics, radiation therapists, about hour, across country

Part D Medicare Drug Programs

Medicare Part D drug programs allow U.S. senior citizens access to prescription drug coverage.

Since 2006, Medicare Part D drug programs allow U.S. senior citizens access to prescription drug coverage, no matter their health status, income or previous prescription drug history. According to the Medicare website, how Medicare patients pay for their prescription medications depends on the type of Medicare coverage in which they enroll. Medicare Part D is only available through private insurance companies, and costs of each program vary, as well as which medications are included.

AARP MedicareRx Plans

The three Medicare Part D plans provided by AARP offer various levels of service, in partnership with United Healthcare. With two plans, there are no annual deductibles. AARP states that its plans have predictable co-pays, 60,000 participating member pharmacies nationwide and financial aid for lower-income customers. Its customer service hot-line is available 24/7. The preferred mail service offers delivery of medications to the customer's door, and standard shipping is free.

AARP Health

P.O. Box 1017

Montgomeryville, PA 18936

800-444-6544

aarphealthcare.com

Aetna Medicare Rx Plan

Aetna's Medicare Part D program also offers three different plans. Aetna provides coverage in all states. Its plans include the Essentials plan, a basic plan providing discounted drugs not usually covered by so-called Medicare "gap" insurance. The Rx Plus plan also has a zero deductible for brand-name as well as generic medications and covers generic barbiturates and benzodiazepines. Its premium coverage, the Premier Plan, provides unlimited generic prescription coverage for any drugs falling in the "gap."

Aetna Inc., RT-52

151 Farmington Avenue

Hartford, CT 06156

800-529-5586

aetnamedicare.com

Humana Medicare

Humana sends its Medicare Part D plan enrollees a monthly summary stating what medications they took and the cost of the drugs. It offers a basic plan, meeting federal minimum Medicare Part D coverage. Humana also offers the Value plan, which has no deductible for common generic drugs. The Enhanced plan features fixed co-payments without deductibles, while Complete plan offers "protection up to a catastrophic limit." Availability of plans vary by region.

Humana Inc.

500 West Main Street

Louisville, KY 40202

800 - 645 - 7322

humana-medicare.com

Tags: Medicare Part, prescription drug, access prescription, access prescription drug, Aetna Medicare

About Medicare Benefits Career Training

Medicare benefits career training is essential to fully understanding the Medicare laws and applying them correctly. Lacking the correct knowledge of Medicare laws is costly to both the patient and the provider.

Training Scope

Medicare training is designed to inform brokers, agents, and insurance providers of increased regulation on Medicare marketing, and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid services requirements and political pressures.

Types of Training Offered

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services offers training in many different forms. Types of training include audio conferences, a training library, multimedia training, classroom modules, and training workshops.

Benefits of Training

Understanding all the benefits of Medicare is essential to agents, brokers and health insurance provides so they can educate beneficiaries. Beneficiaries who are equipped with accurate knowledge can make informed decisions about personal medical care.

Tags: Centers Medicare, Centers Medicare Medicaid, Medicare laws, Medicare Medicaid

Beaches In Ri

Visitors to Rhode Island find beaches from Warwick to Narragansett.

Travelers passing through Rhode Island find an abundance of beaches within a compact space. Major cities like Warwick rest along interior waterways popular with summer vacationers. Local and state beaches along the Atlantic can be found in smaller communities like Narragansett and Charlestown. Tourists get away from city life by frequenting beaches and coastal parks on nearby Block Island. Each Rhode Island beach provides amenities and facilities to accommodate a variety of tourists.

Charlestown

Visitors to Quonochontaug Beach in Charlestown can view Block Island Sound from miles of sandy paths. Access to this beach is restricted to property owners along the beach though public events happen throughout the summer. Charlestown Town Beach features a small strip of sand along the Block Island Sound. Outdoor enthusiasts can access the nearby Kayak Centre before excursions into the sound. Ninigret Park caters to families and groups of friends with two pavilions at Little Nini Beach. Tourists learn about Ninigret Pond and Charlestown's natural history at the Frosty Dew Nature Center.

Narragansett

Scarborough Beach in Narragansett offers views of the Atlantic Ocean across a half mile of white-sand beach. This 42-acre public park features an observation tower, a large pavilion and picnic spaces. Tourists start their trips to Salty Brine State Park by passing through a visitor's center powered by wind and solar energy. The park's one-acre beach along the Bluff Hill Cover hosts a long fishing pier for summer anglers. Visitors to Captain Roger Wheeler State Beach on Sand Hill Cove see reminders of the park's 1929 origins as well as modern facilities including a bathhouse built in the 1990s.

Warwick

Goddard Memorial State Park along Greenwich Cove contains a beachfront gazebo available for daily rental. Facilities ranging from miles of equestrian trails to a nine-hole golf course provide breaks from sunbathing. Buttonwoods Beach combines a small beach along Greenwich Bay with trails for bird watchers and naturalists. This public beach connects to a trio of baseball diamonds as well as paved bike paths. Patrons of Warwick's Oakland Beach can launch their boats using the boat ramp and dock. Oakland Beach caters to a broad spectrum of visitors by offering picnic areas and pet-friendly spaces.

New Shoreham

Charleston Beach in the town of New Shoreham provides a secluded beach near New Harbor. Visitors can watch liners and yachts arriving at the port or tour the remains of a former Coast Guard building. The clubhouse at Crescent Beach accommodates visitors with surfboard, chair and umbrella rentals. This public beach also features a snack shop selling cold drinks and sandwiches during the summer. The North Light on the Great Salt Pond hosts a lighthouse rebuilt four times since opening in 1829. Visitors to the North Light pay to enter trails wrapping around the park to the lighthouse entrance.

Tags: Block Island, Rhode Island, along Greenwich, beach along, Block Island Sound, from miles, Island find

Create Ascii Barcode

ASCII barcodes are used universally in the retail industry.

When purchasing an item from a store, a scanner attached to the computer or register scans a barcode label that provides price, description and inventory information to the computer and removes the sold item from inventory at the same time. Used by large corporations for pricing and inventory control, the American Standard Code for Information Interchange (ASCII) barcode normally requires software, a scanner and barcode font to print, the pricing of which is out of reach for the small businessperson. A number of freeware programs available over the Internet allow anyone to produce her own ASCII barcodes using an online system or by downloading barcode fonts to your computer.

Instructions

Online Barcode Generator

1. Visit Barcodesinc.com, Barcode-soft.com or Barcoding.com to generate a barcode for free online.

2. Enter desired text into the input box of the barcode generator where it says "Input Text," "Barcode Data" or "Input for Barcode" or something similar. Enter letters, numbers or whatever characters desired and the generator translates all of it to barcode for you.

3. Click the button or select the option to generate barcode. An image appears on screen with a line of barcode and your desired text below it.

4. Save the image onto your computer, or copy and paste the image into a text file, email or other file. Save the image in whatever image file format desired.

Download Barcode Font

5. Download a barcode font straight to your computer if you plan to be creating barcodes on a regular basis. Navigate to Downloads3000.com, Adams1.com or DownloadAtoZ.com and download the software directly to your computer. Save the file to a location on your computer for easy access (see Resources).

6. Double-click on the folder from the location where you saved it and install in into the Fonts folder on your computer or open the unzipped folder marked for your operating system and copy or paste the files inside it into the "Fonts" folder. To get to the "Fonts" folder, select the "Start" button, then "Control Panel" on your computer, switch to "Classic View" and select the folder called "Fonts."

7. Start the word processor of choice and scroll down to the name of your barcode font. Begin typing, and notice the barcode rendered on your screen.

8. Print the barcode by selecting "Print" in the word processing software.

Tags: your computer, Fonts folder, ASCII barcodes, barcode font, copy paste, desired text

What Are The Treatments For Basal Skin Cancer

Basal skin cancer, also referred to as Basal Cell Carcinoma, is the most common form of skin cancer. Basal cancer is usually found on very exposed areas of the skin, like the neck and head. It usually doesn't metastasize, and it rarely leads to death if it is caught and treated early. There are many different ways to treat this condition.

Currettage and Dessiccation

Using a spoon-like instrument, your surgeon scoops out the cancerous tumor and sends an electric current through the affected area.

Photodynamic Therapy

For this treatment, you will take a medication that begins targeting the cancer and then have a laser light therapy that helps the medication destroy the tumor.

Radiation

Radiation, which is used most often to treat a variety of cancers, treats cancerous tumors in the body with ionizing radiation.

Mohs Surgery

Referred to as a microscopically controlled excision, Mohs surgery removes small pieces of the tumor, which are looked at under a microscope; more microscopic removal is performed (immediately or or in subsequent days) until the cancerous tumor is gone.

Surgical Excision

A surgeon marks the outer areas of the tumor with a marker pen, and then the cancerous tumor is taken out. Then the area is stitched up.

Cryosurgery

This method freezes the cancerous tumor to kill the cancer cells.

Tags: cancerous tumor

What Is Pep Lab & Diagnostic Testing

Protein electrophoresis (PEP) tests refer to lab tests used to screen and diagnose a variety of conditions. PEP tests may be performed on samples of blood serum (sometimes called SPEP) or urine (sometimes called UPEP).

Features

Laboratory specialists analyze PEP tests by putting the urine or blood sample on special paper and sending an electrical current through the sample. The electrical current causes proteins to visibly band together.

SPEP Labs

SPEP labs measure several protein groups, such as alpha-1 globulin and gamma globulin, as well as total protein. Abnormal results indicate different conditions, depending on the protein or protein group. For example, decreased total protein may indicate malnutrition or cirrhosis. High levels of alpha-1 globulin proteins may indicate cancer or an inflammatory disease.

UPEP Labs

UPEP labs measure levels of albumin and globulins, two types of protein, in the urine. High levels of protein in the urine may indicate a variety of disorders, such as decreased kidney function, kidney failure, urinary tract infection or diabetic nephropathy.

Considerations

Many medicines, including corticosteroids, salicylates, tolbutamide and chlorpromazine, may cause inaccurate PEP lab results. Do not stop taking prescription drugs without asking your doctor first.

Tags: alpha-1 globulin, electrical current, High levels, labs measure, protein urine, sometimes called, total protein

A List Of Charities That Are Approved By The Bbb

Dedicate your time and resources to a BBB member.

Operating as a watchdog for the donor and consumer alike, the Better Business Bureau shares an organization's reviews and ratings with the general public. All charity members are held to a BBB "Charity Accountability Standards" code, consisting of 20 standards dealing with organizational leadership, transparency, honesty, privacy standards, fiscal responsibility and integrity. Know that some national or worldwide charities are not listed under the BBB, due to not having applied for accreditation.

American Cancer Society

Dedicated to cancer research, prevention, treatment and patient support, the American Cancer Society is a participant in the BBB Wise Giving Alliance's National Charity Seal Program, meaning the Society meets Charity Accountability Standards. The American Cancer Society sponsors Healthy Kids Network groups, smoking cessation programs and the National School Health Coordinator Leader Institute.

American Red Cross

Known for its relief efforts, the American Red Cross is responsible for more than 40 percent of the nation's blood supply, according to the 2011 statistics on the American Red Cross website. The BBB Wise Giving Alliance's National Charity Seal Program member gives aid in the midst of disaster and educates on disaster prevention and response. "The organization reports responding to about 70,000 disasters nationwide through its disaster service program," says the BBB website 2011 report.

Oxfam America

Oxfam America dedicates its efforts towards eliminating poverty, hunger and social injustice through relief programs, public education, policy and advocacy. A Better Business Bureau member, Oxfam America teams up with local organizations that actively support their mission. The charity trains tomorrow's leaders by providing leadership training programs for U.S. college students.

United Way Worldwide

"UWW is a global network of more than 1,200 local organizations that focus on education, income and health," says the BBB website of its members in its 2011 report. Partnering with local charities, government agencies and businesses, United Way bases its work on the needs of a community. What is accomplished in one community may differ from the volunteer work done in another.

World Vision

Standing behind the slogan, "Building a better world for children," World Vision does so by fighting poverty on both a national and global level. "WV pursues justice for the poor and advocates with leaders of governmental and international institutions to address the causes of poverty and alleviate the suffering of children," says the BBB website. World Vision is a participant in the BBB Wise Giving Alliance's National Charity Seal Program.

Find a Charity

If you are looking for a charity to dedicate your time and resources towards, a charity listed as a participant in the BBB Wise Giving Alliance's National Charity Seal Program is a good place to start. Find this list by going to Bbb.org. Click on the "USA Site" option. Find "For Charities and Donors" and click, under "Charity Seal Program," on "BBB Charity Seal Holders." A lengthy list of BBB charity members will appear.

Tags: Charity Seal, Charity Seal Program, Seal Program, Alliance National, Alliance National Charity, Giving Alliance, Giving Alliance National

Us Government Municipal Grants

The U.S. government awards grants to municipalities.

U.S. government programs sponsor grants for municipalities to fund community, economic development and recreational projects. Grants are used for construction and renovation projects as well as public infrastructure improvements. Funds are also used to purchase land and equipment. These grants are not required to be repaid by the recipients.

Outdoor Recreational Program

The National Park Service provides grants to municipalities through the Outdoor Recreational program. Cities and other grant recipients use these funds to plan and develop outdoor recreational facilities that are used by the general public. Some of the approved projects include inner city parks, tennis courts, outdoor swimming pools, picnic areas, campgrounds and biking trails. Funds from this program are also used to build public facilities such as water supply facilities, bathrooms and roads. Along with municipalities, state and tribal government agencies and park districts are eligible to apply for these grants.

Recreation Programs

National Park Service

Department of the Interior

1849 C St. NW

Washington, DC 20240

202-354-6900

nps.gov

Public Works and Economic Development

Municipalities are eligible to apply for grants to improve their public infrastructures to stimulate job growth from the private sector through the Public Works and Economic Development program. Sponsored by the Department of Commerce, grants are used to construct and rehabilitate facilities such as water and sewer systems, roads, business parks, port facilities and make telecommunication and broadband infrastructure improvements. State, local and tribal government agencies, public and private nonprofit organizations and institutions of higher education can also apply for these grants. The grants cover up to 50 percent of approved project costs.

U.S. Economic Development Association

1401 Constitution Avenue NW

Room 7019

Washington, District of Columbia 20230

202-482-2785

eda.gov

Community Facilities Grant Program

The Community Facilities Grant program, funded by the Department of Agriculture (USDA), provides grants to municipalities to construct, renovate and repair facilities used for community services, health care, public safety and public service. Funds are also used to purchase equipment for facility operations. Other eligible applicants include counties, cities, towns, districts and tribal government agencies as well as nonprofit organizations. Up to 75 percent of the grants can be used to cover the costs of the approved projects. These grants are open to communities with fewer than 20,000 residents.

Housing and Community Facilities Programs National Office

U.S. Department of Agriculture

Room 5014 South Building

14th St. and Independence Ave. SW

Washington, DC 20250

202-720-9619

rurdev.usda.gov

Tags: grants municipalities, also used, Community Facilities, government agencies, tribal government, tribal government agencies, Works Economic Development

Components Of Medicare Part D

The elderly and disabled population rely on their prescription drugs. Getting their drugs at an affordable price is vital, otherwise many resort to skipping doses or splitting pills. That is why Medicare, the federal health insurance program for the elderly and disabled, introduced Part D for prescription drugs. There are many different aspects of Part D that are key to understanding the program.

Required Drugs

Medicare Part D coverage will be different from plan to plan, however, there are some classes of drugs that a Part D plan are required to cover according to regulations. These include drugs in the immunosuppressant, antidepressant, antiretroviral, antipsychotic, anticonvulsant and antineoplastic classes. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid requires that Part D plans cover the majority of medications in these classes according to the CMS Part D Manual.

Excluded Drugs

According to federal regulations, some classes of drugs are excluded from coverage, meaning that no Part D plan can use Medicare funds to cover these drugs. Many Part D plans still cover them, but at a higher price because they are not subsidized by Medicare. These drugs include benzodiazapines, barbiturates, vitamins and minerals, drugs used for weight loss or gain, over-the-counter drugs and drugs taken for cold and cough.

Options

Medicare Part D is offered exclusively through private insurance companies. If an individual has traditional Medicare, they must purchase a stand-alone Part D plan. Others can purchase Medicare Advantage packages which are typically bundled with a Part D plan. Plan selection varies from region to region.

Costs

Because Part D is offered by private insurance companies, the costs are different from plan to plan in order to appear competitive. A typical Part D plan will charge a monthly premium, a deductible and a co-payment for each drug. The co-payment is usually based on whether the drug is generic, brand name or a preferred brand name drug. Those who have trouble paying the costs of Part D can apply for Extra Help, a federal low-income subsidy that helps with the costs of the benefit.

Protections

Part D enrollees are entitled to some basic rights and protections under federal regulations. A Part D beneficiary can switch Part D plans during the designated enrollment period called the annual coordinated election period, which lasts from November 15 to December 31 each year. They may switch for any reason. Also, Part D enrollees may qualify for a special enrollment period allowing them to switch outside of the designated enrollment period if they were wronged by the Part D plan through illicit means, such as marketing fraud. Finally, a Part D beneficiary has the right to a process of appeals if he deems any service denial unjust.

Tags: Part plan, enrollment period, Medicare Part, Part plans, that Part, brand name, classes drugs

Medical Transcription Training In Mobile Al

Medical transcription training in Mobile, Alabama, is available online.

University of South Alabama and Bishop State Community College offer medical transcription training in Mobile, Alabama. The programs are open enrollment. Basic requirements for training include a computer with internet access and Microsoft Word, working knowledge of medical terminology, and e-mail capabilities.

Features

All medical-transcription training programs in Mobile are online. Students are trained in formatting the nine main report types, transcribe reports from digital recordings, grammar and punctuation rules, report writing and medical documentation. The University of South Alabama Center for Continuing Education and Conference Services offers two training options. Ed2go (formerly Gatlin Education Services) and Career Step have teamed with the university to offer training. The Career Step training program is recognized by the Association for Healthcare Documentation Integrity (AHDI). Medical transcription training is available at Bishop State CC's division of adult education and economic development through ed2go.

Time Frame

The ed2go training through Bishop State CC includes 12 lessons that are completed in six weeks. Classes begin every month. The University of South Alabama ed2go program is 240 hours. Career Step is 640 hours of training.

Cost

As of October 2010, Bishop State CC training costs $75, South Alabama training is $1,595, and Career Step is $2,095. All prices include course material. The Career Step price includes a foot pedal.

Tags: Career Step, Bishop State, South Alabama, University South, University South Alabama

How Long Do I Have To Go To School To Become An Ekg Technician

Doctors interpret EKG readouts, but the test is administered by a technician.

An EKG technician is also known as a cardiographic technician. These are men and women who train in administer EKG tests, a non-invasive technology used to study the heart. They differ from cardiovascular technologists who specialize in invasive cardiologic tests. The average pay for these health workers was $47,010 a year in 2008, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The Job

EKGs measure the electrical impulses transmitted by a heart through electrodes attached to the patient's body. The technician makes sure that all of the electrodes are attached to the proper locations and runs the machine. The interpretation of the results is left for the doctor. Besides EKG testing, cardiographic technicians perform stress tests and Holter monitor testing (a type of portable EKG that a patient wears for a day).

Education

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, most cardiographic technicians are trained on the job. The training takes approximately four to six weeks and is overseen by a supervisor or cardiologist. Some technicians may have completed a two-year program for cardiovascular technologist, but this is not necessary or required to operate an EKG.

Credentialing

Credentialing is not required by the state for cardiographic technicians, but most employers require it, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Technicians can be credentialed through Cardiovascular Credentialing International and the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers. Technicians need to have completed an accredited education program to be able to take the credentialing exam and will also need to earn continuing education credits to maintain credentials.

Other Qualifications

Besides training, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that cardiographic technicians should have some mechanical aptitude since they will be working with machinery and should be able to follow detailed instructions. Since they will be working with nervous patients, technicians should have a pleasant personality and be able to put patients at ease.

Job Outlook

The job outlook for cardiovascular technologists and cardiographic technicians is excellent. The field is growing faster than average for all occupations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is because the population is aging and with that comes an increase in heart problems.

Tags: Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics, cardiographic technicians, Labor Statistics, according Bureau Labor

Symptoms Of Kidney Cysts

Polycystic kidney disease occurs when multiple cysts appear within your kidneys. Such cysts can lead to serious complications, including organ failure and high blood pressure. Therefore, it's important to recognize the early signs and symptoms of kidney cysts.

Urinary Problems

People who experience frequent urination, as well as continuous urinary tract or kidney infections, may be exhibiting symptoms of kidney cysts. Blood in the urine is another common sign of cysts.

Enlarged Kidneys and Abdominal Pain

If your abdomen is enlarged, you may have kidney cysts. As the cysts continue to grow, so do your kidneys. Enlarged kidneys can trigger pain in the side of your abdomen or back.

Headaches

Extremely painful headaches may signal the presence of severe kidney cysts.

Kidney Stones

Painful or recurring problems involving kidney stones can be a symptom of kidney cysts as well.

Blood Pressure and Kidney Failure

While kidney cysts can lead to high blood pressure and kidney failure, such conditions also may serve as the primary indicator of the very existence of said cysts, particularly when no prior symptoms have surfaced.

Tags: kidney cysts, blood pressure, cysts lead, high blood, high blood pressure, symptoms kidney, your abdomen

Apply For Free Health Care In Texas

Applying for free health care takes time.

In today's economy, private health insurance is unaffordable for many people in the United States. Fortunately, Medicaid is a government program that provides health care to those who need it but cannot afford it and thus, "might otherwise go without it." The Medicaid program is available in Texas to people who meet certain requirements. In order to get free health care in Texas, you must apply for it first and get accepted to the program before you can begin to receive benefits.

Instructions

Before you apply

1. Find out whether you are eligible, through one of two ways.

Go online to www.yourtexasbenefits.com. On the left side of the webpage, click on the button that says "Complete Screening." Follow the directions and complete the questionnaire as best you can. At the end of the questionnaire, you will receive your results and find out if you are qualified to receive free health care in Texas. If you don't have access to the Internet, you can visit a Health and Human Services Commission benefits office near you and someone will assist you with finding out your eligibility status. Call 2-1-1 to find out an HHSC benefits office nearest your home. If you are unable to travel to the office for any reason--due to disability, sickness or no transportation--an HHSC worker can speak with you on the phone or visit you at home.

2. If you are eligible, obtain an application packet online at http://www.yourtexasbenefits.com or request that a copy be sent to you. Review the application packet.

3. Find out what documents are needed to serve as proof of your eligibility. A complete list of required documents is listed in the application packet.

4. Gather the necessary documentation and make photocopies of them.

Applying to Medicaid

5. Fill out the application. You can apply directly online at www.yourtexasbenefits.com or if you prefer, you can print out a hard copy of the application which can also be found on that website. Alternatively, if you would rather complete the application on the phone or in person, contact HHSC.

6. Make or request photocopies of your completed application.

7. Submit the completed application and documents via the Internet, mail, fax, phone, or in person.

8. Wait for a decision. If your application is approved, you will be informed of your benefits and use them.

9. If you disagree with the decision or the benefits you received, you have the right to appeal by requesting for a fair hearing which is a "meeting conducted by a regional hearing officer with any applicant or client who disagrees with and wishes to appeal an action taken on your case." Contact HHSC for more details.

Tags: application packet, free health, free health care, health care, benefits office

Suggested Activities For A Mental Health Fair

Make your mental health fair fun and informative.

Hosting a mental health fair is a great way to reach out to the community and offer help and information to those in need. The first step is to organize your activities so participants can move easily from booth to booth and maximize their experience at the fair. Make sure the information booths in your fair span all age groups. Although a mental health fair is a great idea for any time of year, May has been designated Mental Health Month.

Professionals

Reach out to the professionals in your community to see if they would like to set up a booth in the mental health fair. Family counselors, smoking cessation advocates, and weight counselors are often looking for ways to reach out to the community. They can offer your visitors information on their programs and activities specific to their centers.

Workshops

Set up several workshops spaced out during the day so your visitors have a chance to stop in at as many as possible. Ask professionals in your area if they are interested in hosting a workshop. These could include workshops on depression, stress, nutrition, substance abuse, suicide prevention, support for the elderly and brain injury. Postpartum depression, autism, and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder workshops would be appreciated, too.

Graffiti Art Therapy

Cover one section of a wall with paper and invite your guests to an art therapy session. Let them write or draw their emotions out on the wall. You might want to start them off with some words or drawings of your own. Keep it positive with words such as hope, love, and sharing. Draw pictures of the sun, trees and other positive images. Also, have someone monitor this wall to avoid inappropriate expressions that might offend visitors.

Door Prizes

Collect donations for gift baskets and have your team assemble them to be raffled off. Ask merchants in your area to donate gift certificates or merchandise that you can use as prizes. You can give away tickets or sell them to raise money for your organization.

50-50's are also a fun activity. These raise funds for your organization and can also offset the cost of the fair. The bonus is that one of the visitors will go home with a nice prize. Check with your local laws regarding special permits needed for running a 50-50. as these vary from state to state and from town to town.

Promote Action

Have sign-up sheets to volunteer to help out in the mental health community. Suicide prevention or mental health hot lines can always use help. Have a special presentation that will give the visitors to the health fair the information they need to get started volunteering.

Careers in Mental Health

Don't forget to open up a section for those interested in careers in mental health professions. Check with colleges, universities and schools in your state that offer courses in psychology, social work, neurology, counseling and nutrition to see if they are available to set up an interactive booth for those interested in working in fields that affect mental health. Ask them to bring applications or accept resumes from those attending the mental health fair.

Tags: mental health, health fair, mental health fair, Check with, fair great, health fair great, mental health

Build Your Own Thermal Camera

Turn your digital camera into a thermal camera.

A thermal camera will let you pick up on the heat signature left by an object, person or animal. It does this by blocking out the rest of the light spectrum and allowing infrared light to pass into the camera's lens. While these devices used to be something that only spies had, nowadays with some glue, an inexpensive digital camera and a screwdriver you can easily make your own.

Instructions

1. Get a strip of old film negative and cut two of the squares off. This should be the black ends not the part that has images on it.

2. Open up the digital camera with a Phillips screwdriver. Set the screws aside. If you are using an inexpensive digital camera such as a webcam it may not have screws, so you can pry it open with a flat head screwdriver.

3. Remove the charged couple device (CCD ) from behind the lens of the camera. This will be rectangular in shape and will have a red-colored piece of glass on top of it. This is the infrared filter.

4. Pry the filter loose with the flat head screwdriver. Make sure that you don't damage the CCD in the process.

5. Put a small dollop of glue on the negative film and attach it to the CCD. Wait about an hour for it to dry.

6. Reassemble the camera. If you pried it apart, you will need to use some super glue to put it back together.

7. Take a photo in the dark. You will notice that the colors are very different from what you are accustomed to seeing.

Tags: digital camera, flat head, flat head screwdriver, head screwdriver, inexpensive digital, inexpensive digital camera, with flat

Osha & Epa Training

OSHA provides training in health and safety issues relating to industry and construction.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is an agency within the U.S. Department of Labor that provides information and training about health and safety issues relating to construction and general industry. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) performs a similar role for health and safety issues relating to the environment.

OSHA Training

OSHA's Training Institute provides education in occupational health and safety to federal personnel and the private sector. It has educational centers around the U.S. and runs online training programs, which range from one-hour to 40-hour courses that can be completed at your own pace. OSHA's Outreach Training Program is suitable for people who are interested in becoming health and safety trainers.

EPA Training Courses

The EPA runs a wide variety of environmental training courses, including pesticide handling, lead-based paint activity, waste water operator and environmental response training. Courses are either classroom-based or undertaken online. University courses are available for environmental professionals.

Costs

As of 2010, OSHA-approved courses cost from around $89 for a 10-hour course to $189 for a 30-hour course. A 40-hour Hazwoper course costs $350. Training grants are available for nonprofit organizations through the Susan Harwood Training Grant Program. EPA's environmental boot camp, which is a comprehensive, 32-hour course, costs $699.99.

Tags: health safety, health safety issues, issues relating, safety issues, safety issues relating, course costs

Manage Fibroids

A fibroid is a cyst that can develop inside a woman's ovaries, uterus and even in her breast. These fibroids can become large and highly painful. The silver lining here is that most, if not close to all, fibroid cysts are benign. Some remain small and do not need to be removed. However, in order for these cysts to be tested, your doctor must either remove them or take a sample from them. In most cases, a biopsy is performed. But there are many different treatments options available to manage fibroids.

Instructions

1. Have the fibroid tested. Depending on its location, there are different tests to be performed on a fibroid. There are mammograms and ultrasounds that will detect them in your breast and in your reproductive organs. Having the tests performed will help you weigh your options on treatment. For instance, if you plan to have more children, you do not want to have a hysterectomy, though it is the number one chosen treatment option for fibroids found frequently in the uterus and in the ovaries.

2. Take evening primrose oil tablets daily. These supplements will decrease growth of fibroids in your breasts. In small to moderate sized fibroids, these supplements have even caused the fibroid to disappear almost completely.

3. Avoid eating foods that may contain estrogen. This would include eggs, dairy products, red meats and fatty foods. You will want to start a diet high in proteins such as leafy vegetables, chicken, fish, whole wheat and soy products. Fibroids are created from excessive levels of estrogen found in your body. Starting this diet will help you prevent estrogen increases that are not needed in your body.

4. Add warmth to the area of the fibroid. You can use heating pads, warm compresses and even hot baths. The heat will act as an anti-inflammatory agent. This may not decrease the size of your fibroids, but it will certainly help with the pain associated with them.

5. Have large fibroids drained. Your doctor may suggest as an alternative to surgical removal having the fibroid drained. This will be performed by numbing the affected area by a local anesthetic. The doctor will then insert a needle into the fibroid cyst and drain fluid causing its size. This does not necessarily mean that the fibroid will not swell again. But it will ease your pain in a non-invasive way.

Tags: fibroid cyst, tests performed, will help, your body

Osha Heat Stress Regulations

Working in hot conditions can cause a variety of health issues.

Construction workers and other laborers can sometimes work in environments with high levels of heat. This heat can cause minor to severe health issues. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OHSA) has established guidelines to help protect laborers working under intense conditions. These guidelines provide employers and employees with steps to take to prevent a heat-induced ailment.

Types of Heat Stress

OHSA lists six types of problems caused by heat. They are: heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, heat collapse, heat rashes and heat fatigue. Symptoms range from causing a worker to experience dizziness or fainting to more severe issues such as brain damage or death.

OHSA Investigations

In the event of a suspected heat stress problem, an OSHA inspector will conduct an investigation in to the issue. This will be done through employer and employee interviews. Employers may be asked questions about the heat sources, the preventative methods used and if other issues have been experienced in the past. Employees may be asked what symptoms they experienced, what preventative actions the employer takes or whether heat stress was discussed during training. Following interviews, the inspector will conduct an inspection of the facility in question. A work-load assessment will also be used to determine the metabolic rates for certain tasks.

Natural Heat Reductions

Employers should use two methods to reduce the strain of heat on workers. This includes acclimatization and fluid replacement. Acclimatization is the process in which an individual's body adapts to a new temperature. This process, done over the first few days of work, exposes workers to high heat levels gradually to allow their bodies to adjust. Fluid replacement provides workers with cool beverages to regenerate lost water. OSHA recommends water supplies be placed near work areas. Workers should drink one cup of water every 20 minutes.

Mechanical Cooling

OSHA recommends using ventilation, air treatment/cooling, air conditioning, fans, heat shields or heat insulation to reduce the amount of heat being generated in a work area. These methods can help reduce heat stress.

Training

Preparing workers for the challenges associated with high temperatures is a crucial part of reducing heat stress. According to the OSHA Technical Manual, a heat stress training program should teach: knowledge of hazards; recognition of symptoms; first aid procedures; employee responsibilities; dangers of drug use; types of protective clothing and equipment; and the advantages of environmental and medical surveillance programs.

Scheduling and Monitoring

OSHA states that hot jobs should be scheduled at night or during cooler parts of the day. Other helpful steps include reducing physical demand, scheduling extra workers, and providing cool down areas for breaks. Workers in hot areas should also be monitored. OSHA states that workers should be weighed at the beginning and end of each work day to measure body water loss. An excess of 1.5 percent means that water intake should be increased. Oral temperatures should also be checked with excessive temperatures requiring shortened work cycles.

Tags: health issues, heat stress, heat stress, inspector will, inspector will conduct, OSHA recommends, OSHA states

Information On Universal Health Care For U S Citizens

Universal health care for U.S. citizens is an extremely controversial topic currently being debated in America. According to Health Care for All California, there are 45 million Americans without health insurance, and 10 million of them are children.

Fact

Every year, 18,000 Americans die because they are uninsured, according to a 2002 Institutes of Medicine study and FamilyDoctorMag.com.

Considerations

According to the American Medical Student Association, the cost of universal health care would be between $35 billion to $59 billion.

Misconceptions

One misconception regarding universal health care is in regards to what universal health care actually is, according to Patrick Whelan, M.D, Ph.D. from FamilyDoctorMag.com. Universal health care could mean that the government pays for anything or using tax law to incorporate every citizen into the private health insurance system that currently exists.

Pros

Universal health care would prevent thousands of people from dying each year who would otherwise die because of not having health insurance.

Cons

Universal health care is expensive, and John S. O'Shea, a practicing surgeon, believes that universal health care would result in higher taxes. O'Shea also believes that universal health care would require cuts to education and defense spending.

Tags: health care, care would, health care would, universal health, health insurance

Ultrasound Schools In Houston

Ultrasound programs include both classroom lectures and clinical requirements.

Sonography, often referred to as ultrasound, is a medical procedure that uses sound waves to capture images of the inside of the body. Medical professionals who use ultrasound technology need to be well-versed in medical terminology, anatomy, and relevant ultrasound equipment. Becoming trained typically takes two years or less and can be completed at a community college or specialized school. Several schools in Houston, Texas offer programs in sonography.

Cardiotech Ultrasound School

Cardiotech Ultrasound School was founded in 2001 and conducts courses in a nearly 2,000 square foot facility in southwest Houston. The school offers six allied health programs, including EKG technician, monitor technician and medical vascular ultrasound technician. Students in the ultrasound program can choose to complete it with a general specialty or an obstetrics and gynecology specialty. Both specialties are 18 months in length and consist of 60 semester hours. During the classroom portion of study students are expected to dedicate 30 hours per week, and the clinical experience portion of the program requires 40 hours per week.

Cardiotech Ultrasound School

12135 Bissonnet, Suite E

Houston, TX 77099

281-495-0078

cardiotech.org

Houston Community College

Houston Community College is a public two-year institution founded in 1971. The college offers a diagnostic medical sonography program that starts in the fall and must be taken on a full-time basis. Students can complete the program in 16 months and are required to complete both classroom courses and a hands-on clinical experience. Courses in the program include basic ultrasound physics, sonographic sectional anatomy and sonography of high risk obstetrics. Students complete the clinical portion of the program at a local healthcare facility; clinical sites include Park Plaza Hospital and Houston Northwest Medical Center.

Houston Community College

3100 Main St.

Houston TX 77002

713-718-2000

hccs.edu

Sanford-Brown

Sanford-Brown offers training programs across the country in variety of areas, including business, fashion and healthcare. Students at the Houston campus can achieve a certificate in medical diagnostic sonography that is comprised of lectures, classroom laboratory requirements and an off-campus clinical experience. Topics of study in the program include sonography patterns of organs, technical impressions and vascular ultrasound. The clinical requirement is completed at the end of the program.

Sanford-Brown

9999 Richmond Ave.

Houston, TX 77042

713-779-1110

sanfordbrown.edu

Tags: Cardiotech Ultrasound, Cardiotech Ultrasound School, clinical experience, Community College, Houston Community

Medical Diagnostic Careers

Medical diagnostic careers use advanced technologies to produce diagnostic images.

A career in medical diagnostics involves the use of technology to create images that physicians use to diagnose conditions and injury. The technologist works with patients to answer questions and provide information. Technicians and technologists must have knowledge of the advanced equipment used to produce diagnostic images.

MRI Technician

Magnetic resonance imaging uses a magnetic field to create images of soft tissues and organs for physicians to use in the diagnosis of medical conditions and injury. The MRI technician prepares the patient for an MRI scan and uses advanced equipment to prepare the images under a physician’s orders. Qualified applicants for an MRI technician position may have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree.

Diagnostic Sonographer

Medical sonography uses sound waves to create the image used to diagnose conditions or illnesses. Obstetricians regularly use sonography to view a growing fetus in the womb. Diagnostic sonographers position the patient to provide the best image of the body area. Sonographers may specialize in a particular type of sonography such as obstetrics. Colleges and universities offer two and four year programs in sonography.

Radiologic Technicians

Radiologic technicians use x-ray technology to create images of various parts of the body. Physicians use the x-ray image to diagnose conditions and injury. Radiologic technologists can specialize in other areas of diagnostic imaging such as MRI or CT scanning. Technicians are trained in one specialty, but can advance to a higher level with additional training and education in other imaging methods.

Nuclear Medicine Technologist

The nuclear medicine technologist administers radioactive drugs to patients and monitors the effect on tissues and organs of the body. The technologist uses cameras to map the drug in the body and create images of the organs that are being monitored. Colleges and universities offer associate and bachelor’s degree programs in nuclear medicine technology. Health care professionals that have a bachelor’s degree are often eligible to complete a one-year program to change specialties.

Tags: create images, bachelor’s degree, conditions injury, diagnose conditions, advanced equipment

Ortho Clinical Diagnostics Careers

Careers with Ortho Clinical Diagnostics encompass a number of disciplines.

Ortho Clinical Diagnostics is a member of the Johnson & Johnson family of companies. It is a leading provider of solutions for screening, diagnosing, monitoring and confirming diseases for the transfusion and laboratory medical community. Careers with the company encompass a number of disciplines from research and development to information management for both professionals and students. Career information for Ortho Clinical Diagnostics is listed on the Johnson & Johnson website.

Application Information

Many of the positions open within Ortho Clinical Diagnostics are listed on the website of their parent company, Johnson & Johnson. At jnj.com, applicants submit their resumes which are entered into a central database. This database is open to multiple Johnson & Johnson Affiliates which use it to search for prospective employees.

Career Opportunities

Ortho Clinical Diagnostics employs individuals in several disciplines. These functional roles include engineering, finance, human resources, information management, research and development and sales. Career advancement occurs as employees follow career paths that may take them across companies within the Johnson & Johnson family, across country or overseas.

Compensation

Employee compensation programs were designed to help the company train and retain talented employees, support career advancement and give employees a stake in the company. Compensation includes wages and salaries, comprehensive health benefits, employee wellness programs and retirement plans.

Work and Life Balance

As part of the Johnson & Johnson family of companies, Ortho Clinical Diagnostics is committed to the health, happiness and productivity of its employees and their families. It embraces a holistic view of work, family and personal life to support individual effectiveness on the job and at home.

Tags: Clinical Diagnostics, Ortho Clinical, Ortho Clinical Diagnostics, Johnson Johnson, Johnson family, Johnson Johnson family

Outer Structure Of Female Reproductive System

Mons

Although the entire outer portion of the female reproductive system is often referred to as the "vulva," there are individual structures that comprise the vulva. The mons pubis (or pubic mound) is the fleshy tissue at the top of the vaginal area over the pubic bone. This area is covered in hair, referred to as pubic hair, which can vary in color, texture and thickness. Pubic hair also covers the sides of the vulva area and extends back toward the anus.

Labia

The term labia refers to the "lips" of the vagina. There are two sets of labia. The labia majora are the outer lips, which are usually bigger than the inner lips. Labia majora protect the inner parts of the reproductive anatomy and grow thicker during sexual intercourse due to increased blood flow. The labia minora are the inner lips, which tend to be smaller than the labia majora. They help to protect the vagina and can change color during sexual arousal.

Clitoris

The clitoris lies at the top of the labia and contains a wealth of sensitive nerves that run from the area of the pubic bone all the way down the labia. A "hood" of skin protects the clitoris, but when a woman is sexually aroused, the clitoris often swells and emerges from the hood. Stimulation of the clitoris during sexual play or intercourse brings immense pleasure to most women.

Urethral Opening

The opening to the urethra is located between the labia minora, just above the vaginal opening. It is much smaller than the vaginal opening. The purpose of the urethra is to carry urine from the bladder out of the body. The urethral opening is where the urine comes out when someone urinates.

Vaginal Opening

The vaginal opening is located beneath the urethral opening, between the labia minora. This marks the outer end of the vaginal canal, which is a muscular structure that is three to five inches in length on average. The vaginal opening serves several purposes. It is the entry point of the penis during sexual intercourse. The vaginal opening also is where menstrual discharge exits the body each month. The baby also emerges from the vaginal opening during childbirth.

Tags: vaginal opening, during sexual, labia minora, between labia, between labia minora, during sexual intercourse, emerges from

Original Medicare Vs Medicare Advantage Plans

Original Medicare Vs. Medicare Advantage Plans

Medicare is a federal program designed to offer health coverage for the elderly and certain disabled individuals. Original Medicare (Part A and B) and Medicare Advantage Plans are two forms of health coverage offered under the Medicare program.

Identification

Original Medicare consists of Part A (hospital benefits) and Part B (outpatient medical benefits) and is offered by Medicare directly. Medicare Advantage Plans, offered by private insurance companies, provide hospital and medical benefits and also typically provide additional benefits not provided by original Medicare, such as prescription drug coverage.

Networks

Original Medicare allows you to see any medical provider that accepts Medicare and is taking new patients with Medicare benefits. Medicare Advantage Plans typically require you to access certain medical providers that are in-network, regardless of whether other medical providers that accept Medicare are available.

Services

Original Medicare does not cover the cost of prescription drugs, vision care or hearing care. Medicare Advantage Plans may cover vision, hearing and prescription drug costs not covered by Medicare.

Requirements

The same eligibility requirements must be met for enrollment in original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage Plan. These requirements include being 65 years or older, under age 65 with certain disabilities or having permanent kidney failure that requires dialysis or a kidney transplant (see reference 2).

Enrollment

Individuals under age 65 who have been collecting Social Security disability benefits for at least 2 years or individuals 65 years or older are automatically enrolled in original Medicare Part A and typically Part B as well. If you are not automatically enrolled in original Medicare (Part A and/or B), you can obtain enrollment information from your local Social Security Administration office. Enrolling in Medicare Advantage Plan requires having active Medicare Part A and B coverage, living in an area where a Medicare Advantage Plan is available and is completed by contacting the private insurance company offering the Medicare Advantage Plan.

Renal Failure

Original Medicare is automatically awarded to individuals who require a kidney transplant or dialysis. Medicare Advantage Plans do not enroll individuals with end-stage renal failure unless a successful transplant has already occurred or if the renal failure happens after enrollment in the plan.

Tags: Medicare Advantage, Advantage Plans, Medicare Advantage Plans, Advantage Plan, Medicare Advantage Plan

Auto Insurance Law In Washington State

Antique cars are exempt from mandatory insurance laws in Washington.

Drivers in the state of Washington must meet the mandatory minimum levels for vehicle insurance. The law applies to automobiles registered within the state as well as those registered in other states. Therefore, drivers who do not live in Washington but drive in that state should make sure that their policy limits are sufficient to meet the Washington requirements. The state allows drivers to meet the legal requirements in various ways.

Insurance Policy

Drivers can purchase an automobile policy from a company licensed to sell vehicle insurance in the state. The policy must provide at least $10,000 in property damage liability, $25,000 of individual bodily injury liability (for one person injured in an accident) and $50,000 of collective bodily injury liability to cover injuries to more than one person injured in a single accident.

Self-Insurance

If an individual or company owns at least 26 vehicles, it is possible to self-insure the fleet. Those who believe they might qualify should contact the Washington Department of Licensing for an application.

Liability Bond

Drivers can apply for insurance with a surety bond issuer who is licensed in the state of Washington. A liability bond for a minimum of $60,000 is an acceptable substitute for a liability insurance policy.

Certificate of Deposit

In lieu of a bond or auto insurance policy, drivers can deposit collateral or cash with the state treasurer or a bank account that is established for the state. The minimum deposit is $60,000.

Exceptions

Certain vehicles are not required to furnish liability insurance, although drivers are still financially responsible for any damages they cause. Exempt vehicles include collector's cars that are more than 30 years old, antique vehicles that are licensed as such and are more than 40 years old, vehicles that are leased or owned by a government or political agency and contract or common carriers. Motorcycles, mopeds and motor scooters are also exempt.

Tags: more than, bodily injury, bodily injury liability, injury liability, liability insurance