X-ray technicians operate x-ray equipment in hospitals, clinics and labs, which take pictures inside a patient's body to determine diseases, injuries or conditions that help doctors make a possible diagnosis. Technicians prepare patients for x-rays by making sure that the body is positioned in the proper place and other parts of body are shielded from the radiation. After the patient is in the proper location, an x-ray technician will go into another room to operate the machine.
Education
Most x-ray technicians can finish a training program within a year, and learn the basics and principals of what it takes to become an x-ray technician. Training is offered in hospitals, colleges and universities, and applicants are required to have at least a high school diploma or GED. While in training, students learn about medical terminology, pathology, patient care procedures, radiation protection, imaging principles and radiobiology.
Responsibilities
It is essential that x-ray technicians know operate and fix the equipment they are using on a daily basis. Technicians are responsible for getting the best image possible of a prescribed region in the body. This may be necessary to determine the health of the patient and the treatments needed.
Requirements
Physical stamina is required for all x-ray technicians, because they are on their feet most of the day. X-ray technicians wheel patients in and out of the x-ray room, and depending on the severity of their disorder, may have to help lift them on and off the table.
Warnings
Although x-ray technicians may be able to read and understand an x-ray, they are not allowed to discuss the images with a patient. It doesn't matter if the images are positive or negative; it is not the technician's responsibility to discuss the results with anyone. The patient's doctor is responsible for interpreting the x-rays and determining a course of treatment, if necessary.
The x-ray technician will leave the room while the x-ray is in progress to avoid exposing himself to the damaging radiation. The use of protective clothing and other devices also minimizes this exposure.
Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the career opportunities for x-ray technicians are going to increase through the year 2014, because of the technological advancements in imaging technology. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also shows that the median annual salary for x-ray technicians is $48,170.
Tags: x-ray technicians, x-ray technician, Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics, Labor Statistics
Determine what Tampa-based school is right for you.
Sonographer schools allow a person to obtain a varying degree of training and certification in the medical field of sonography, which provides images of body parts on a 3-D screen. Tampa-based sonographers usually spend their days working in imaging facilities, hospitals and doctor's offices. Though there are many programs in Tampa that offer training in diagnostic medical sonography, you'll want to decide which school is best for you based on their programs, cirriculum, specialization, training requirements and schedules.
Instructions
1. Decide whether you want to attend a full- or part-time program, and whether you want to obtain a two-year Associate's degree or a four-year Bachelor's degree. There are also one-year certification programs available at select schools.
2. Attend the Sanford-Brown Institute's diagnostic medical sonography program, which has 15 schools throughout the United States, including one in Tampa. The program focuses on working with other healthcare professionals, performing minor procedures, taking down patient histories and interacting with patients.
3. Attend the medical sonographer program at Argosy University and obtain your of Applied Science (AAS) degree. The program focuses on technical skills, bedside manner, using ultrasound machines and working for physicians. The school also offers programs in comparable fields, such as histotechnology, radiologic technology, dental hygiene, veterinary technology, medical assisting and radiation therapy.
4. Attend one of the Central Florida Institute (CFI) programs in Tampa at their CFI Palm Harbor location. This is a part-time, short-term program that offers small classes and practical training. They prepare their graduates to take and pass the Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer exam, which bestows national accreditation through the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS). The school also offers courses for abdominal, obstetric-gynecological and neuro sonographers.
5. Attend the Florida Hospital College of Health Sciences in Orlando, which is near Tampa, if you want to obtain your Bachelor of Science degree in diagnostic medical sonography. Specialties include obstetrics, neurology or cardiology. Students complete 61 hours of credit, and take courses in pathophysiology and vascular sonography. The school also offers an Associate of Science degree that requires 75 hours of credit and an emphasis in either cardiovasular imaging or general ultrasounds.
6. Review the various healthcare degrees and programs that are available at the Keiser University, the Ultimate Medical Academy, Southwest Florida College, which are all in Tampa, if you decide to pursue a degree or certification program. Many sonographers find that they can benefit from receiving training in subjects such as radiology or obstetrics.
7. Complete your 30 hours of continuing education every three years to keep your certification - should you choose to become certified - up to date.
Tags: also offers, diagnostic medical sonography, medical sonography, school also, school also offers
There are many different kinds of radiologic technician jobs.
Radiologic technology is a course in the medical profession that trains individuals in the field of imaging and radiation therapy treatments. Studies in this particular course include human anatomy, biology, radiation safety, examination techniques and patient care. Opportunities for radiologic technology graduates are increasing because of the advancement of technology and better equipment available in the market. They can work in hospitals and clinics that have a need for such operators.
Radiologic Technician
Radiologic technicians assist patients who will undergo radiologic examinations by giving them instructions on what to do before the x-ray procedure. They guide patients so that the particular body part they will examine will have accurate radiographs. These technicians follow proper usage of radiation for protection, not just for their patients, but for themselves as well. They also ensure proper maintenance of the radiography machines they are using and evaluate newer machines that come out for future equipment purchase. Radiologic technicians or radiographers use radiology in producing x-ray films, specifically of the human body. Doctors often use these x-ray films to find out the various medical concerns and problems of their patients. A degree in radiologic technology is a requirement for this position. Radiologic technicians earn an average of about $54,180 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Sonography is another method of providing medical images for doctors who diagnose patient problems. Sonographers start by informing patients of what they will do, and asking them about what is wrong with their bodies and making inquiries on why their doctor advised them to undergo the medical procedure. They use a special gel that they will rub on the skin of the patient before they start using the machine. They keep medical records of patients and schedule regular machine maintenance. Specializations for sonographers include obstetrics and gynecology sonography or production of images of the female reproductive system, neurosonography that produces x-ray images of the brain and abdomical sonography. Salaries for diagnostic medical sonographers average $63,640 annually, according to the BLS.
Nuclear Medicine Technologist
Another method of providing medical images is by using radionuclides. These unstable atoms give out radiation to produce images used in diagnosing and treating diseases. Nuclear medicine gets findings about a certain medical condition based on metabolic changes rather than abnormalities in the human organs. Nuclear medicine technologists will ask patients to take radiopharmaceutical medicine, either orally or via injection. They use special cameras in finding gamma rays released by the medicine and create an image of the specific body part. Like other radiologic technologists, nuclear medicine technologists are responsible for keeping their machines in good condition and keep the medical records of their patients. A nuclear medical technology course is a requirement for those who aspire for this job. Colleges and universities offer one-year, two-year and four-year programs for nuclear medicine technology. An annual average salary for this profession is $68,450, according to the BLS.
Tags: Radiologic technicians, their patients, they will, body part, keep medical, keep medical records, medical images
Macular degeneration is a chronic eye disease that is characterized by a worsening of vision and a blurry spot in the eyesight. This disease generally affects older adults, and it comes with a variety of problems and treatments alike. Dry and wet macular degeneration exist, though dry (the type without bleeding) is the more prevalent of the two.
Dry Macular Degeneration Treatments
Dry macular degeneration cannot be reversed. The good news is that the disease usually progresses slowly, but the bad news is that it can turn into wet macular degeneration at any time, which is more severe and faster to spread.
High-dose combinations of antioxidants and zinc can help slow the progression of dry macular degeneration. Patients who suffer from this type of degeneration also can take a combination of vitamins daily to slow the advance of the disease. This enables patients to live normal lifestyles with better vision for a longer period of time.
Wet Macular Degeneration Treatments
Wet macular degeneration tends to develop as a result of the dry form of the disease. Wet macular degeneration occurs when blood vessels develop under the macula and leak fluids.
As with dry macular degeneration, wet macular degeneration cannot be reversed. Treatments for this disorder focus on stopping or slowing its progression. Laser surgery can be performed in a small percentage of cases; in this scenario, doctors use lasers to destroy the damaged cells under the macula.
Another option is photodynamic therapy, which uses a cold laser aimed at the damaged cells in the center of the eye. Doctors also can attempt to rearrange the damaged cells through surgery or implant a telescopic device inside the eye.
Drug treatments are also available for wet macular degeneration and have proven to be among the most effective treatments.
Lifestyle Changes
For people suffering from macular degeneration, accommodations can be made that will improve their quality of life. Since macular degeneration affects eyesight, people who have this disease should use caution when driving and may eventually have to give up driving altogether if vision worsens. They should focus on keeping proper lighting in their homes and can use glasses and magnifiers to help with daily activities. When using the Internet, they can zoom to a larger type on their computer screens, and they can read large-print books instead of traditional print sizes. Macular degeneration doesn't have to mean an end to favorite activities, but it may mean that adjustments need to be made to continue enjoying those activities.
Mammograms are X-rays taken to detect breast cancer. Mammograms can be used either as a screening procedure or to diagnose existing lumps.
The pink ribbon is symbolic of the fight against breast cancer.
Early Detection
According to the Mayo Clinic, more American women as diagnosed with breast cancer than any other form of cancer. Mammograms can detect breast cancer in its early stages, so it can be treated.
Non-Invasive
The mammogram is a non-invasive procedure that merely takes a scan of the breasts and is done as an outpatient procedure.
Radiation
There is a small risk from the radiation of the mammograms, if a woman is subjected to a large number of them over her lifetime. Therefore, it is usually not recommended that you start getting mammograms until you are 40.
Missed Cancer
According testimony given by Richard D. Klausner, M.D., before a Senate subcommittee meeting, mammograms can miss about 25 percent of breast cancer in women younger than 50, and between 10 and 15 percent in women over 50.
False Positives
Mammograms have a 10 percent risk of a false positive, according to the American College of Physicians. After 10 screenings, the rate jumps to 50 percent. These false positives can lead to unnecessary biopsies.
Tags: breast cancer, cancer Mammograms, detect breast, detect breast cancer
Thyroid surgery is recommended when cancerous tissues, hyperthyroidism or growths have been detected in the thyroid. While most patients can return to their daily activities within three weeks, there are possible complications and risks that can occur following surgery.
Changes in the Voice
Thyroid removal can result in changes to your voice and projection. The thyroid glands are located directly beneath the voice box, therefore it is possible that the voice will be altered following thyroid surgery or the nerves that control the voice will be injured during surgery. Voice changes are usually temporary; however, in rare instances, permanent changes can occur.
Bleeding
During surgery, it is possible to nick or perforate small blood vessels located near the thyroid gland. This can cause uncontrolled bleeding in the neck that can necessitate surgical repair. While this complications occurs in less than one percent of thyroid surgery patients, according to Columbia University Medical Center, thyroid surgery patients should be kept for observation for several hours following surgery.
Hypocalcemia
According to the University of Columbia Medical Center, one in 300 operations may result in the loss of function in the parathyroid glands. These glands control calcium levels, which means that patients whose parathyroid glands do not function should take calcium supplements as well as vitamin D on a daily basis.
Hypoparathyroidism
Hypoparathyroidism is damage to all four parathyroid glands. This condition can cause a variety of symptoms, such as muscle cramps, abdominal pain, cataracts, seizures or brittle nails. Medical treatments, such as medications to prevent seizures or muscle spasms, may be needed if this occurs.
Infection
As with any surgery that requires incisions, infections both inside the body and the actual incision site can occur. Viruses or bacteria can invade the body via these sites, causing redness, warmth at the incision site, fever, swelling and drainage from the incision site. While antibiotics are typically delivered intravenously during surgery, patients may also take antibiotics following surgery to prevent further infection.
Tags: following surgery, incision site, parathyroid glands, surgery patients, during surgery
Certification can help orthopedic technicians boost their earnings.
Orthopedic technologists support doctors in the care of patients going through physical therapy and orthopedic procedures. They may apply or remove casts, oversee patient treatments and order X-rays. Recent salary increases demonstrate increasing patient demand for orthopedic technologists.
Salary
In 2008, orthopedic technologists earned an average of $44,458, according to a survey conducted by the National Association of Orthopaedic Technologists' (NAOT). This represented a 3% salary increase from 2006.
Experience
Experienced orthopedic technologists earn more than their new peers. In 2008, orthopedic technologists with three or less years of experience earned an average salary of $29,375. Orthopedic technologists with 10 years experience earned, on average, $42,049, while those with 25 or more years experience earned an average salary of $56,136 in 2008.
Employer
The type of employer can also impact an orthopedic technologist's salary. Orthopedic technologists working for private practices earned an average salary of $47,703 in 2008. Those working in hospitals earned less, averaging $42,743 in 2008.
Tags: earned average, years experience earned, average salary, earned average salary, experience earned, experience earned average
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida offers medical insurance options to help pay for hospital stays.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida offers different types of medical, dental and pharmacy options for residents of Florida without medical coverage. Plan options are available to families, individuals, companies, small business and Medicare recipients. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida offers temporary or permanent coverage for families and businesses.
Temporary
Blue Cross and Blue Shield offers a temporary coverage option for those who are currently without health care coverage, but will have it in the near future. BlueOptions offers full comprehensive coverage without medical underwriting to those who are just starting out with a new job, in between jobs or who temporarily not medically covered. Temporary plan options offer coverage for 30, 60, 90 and 180 days.
Hospital Surgical Plus
You will receive full coverage, including routine checkups, prescriptions, lab work and dental with plan options through BlueOptions and BlueSelect. These options will also give you coverage for unexpected major medical issues include hospital and surgical costs.
Health Savings Account Compatible
Through BlueOptions you can get partial medical coverage accompanied by a health saving account (HSA) for a low premium. Your medical coverage will have a higher deductible for services you want to have as a precautionary measure. Throughout the year you will place tax-free money into your HSA account that can be used to pay for co-pays, your deductible and other medical related costs.
Health Plans with Dental and Predictable Costs
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida offers you to enhance your health insurance with the addition of dental options. These two options will be combined into one plan with predictable co-payments to cover all visits with low annual deductibles. Predictable cost options all you to pay a low premium with a set amount of medical costs and co-payments eliminated the element of surprise when seeking medical assistance.
Customized and Value Plans
Low Cost plans let you pick and choose which benefits you will use throughout the course of a year. These options make for low premiums and you do not have to pay for medical benefits you might not use. The GoBlue value plan offers health and dental coverage without having to provide a medical history or tests while still being able to receive low premium medical coverage.
Pharmacy Coverage
Pharmacy coverage options are available through Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida to help lower the out of pocket cost of medicine. These options are available in conjunction with all medical coverage options offered. Pharmacy options include BlueScript Pharmacy Program, BlueRX Discount Program, MediScript, BlueCare RX and BlueSelect Pharmacy Program.
Tags: Blue Cross, Blue Cross Blue, Blue Shield, Cross Blue, Cross Blue Shield
Knowing what to say or do during someone's illness can be perplexing. When dealing with a cancer patient you may wonder how you can help in practical ways and provide much needed emotional support. These tips will give you the courage to speak up, the freedom to listen and the comfort of knowing you are helping more than you'll ever know. You may be surprised at how much of a difference the little things make in the life of a cancer patient.
Just Say It
The worst thing a cancer patient has to deal with is people pretending that he or she is "just fine." It is unnerving to be around people who can't even bring themselves to speak the dreaded "C" word. The word is cancer. Most times, when caught early, it's not the death sentence it was 20 years ago. However, there are forms of cancer that are malignant and without a cure. Your acknowledgment of the disease will allow the person battling cancer the freedom to openly discuss the disease with someone other than medical personnel. Your ability to empathize about the highs, lows, plus the ins and outs of the disease will actually help the cancer patient process orally without feeling the need to side step the battle at hand in order to protect your feelings.
Lend a Hand
There are days when cancer patients just don't have the energy to run errands, nor should they for safety reasons. Volunteering to take care of simple day-to-day tasks will take a heavy load off of his or her shoulders. Tidying up the house or cooking dinner can give the cancer patient time to get much needed rest. Ask what needs to be done and do it immediately. The worse thing you can do is inquire about things left undone only to leave them that way as many well wishers tend to do.
Another way you can help is to give your time to any children who may be at home. If mom or dad is too weak to attend parent teacher conferences or ball games it will mean a lot to the child to know that someone is there for them. It will mean even more to the cancer patient who is expending a lot of energy fighting to beat this terrible disease.
Get Involved With the Treatment
Educate yourself about the cancer your friend or family member is fighting. Be on hand to drive the patient to the doctor and pharmacy. Familiarize yourself with the medications the person is taking and make sure they are sticking to a schedule. Fatigue causes many cancer patients to forget certain details the doctor or nurse may relay. By taking an active roll in the treatment process you can fill in the gaps later if necessary while keeping on top of correct dosages and appointments. You can also ask questions of the doctor that the cancer patient may overlook.
Tags: cancer patient, cancer patient, cancer patients, disease will, much needed, will mean
Skin tags are a common problem for lots of people. They often form in areas where skin creases, such as near the eyes or around the armpit. Skin tags are normally harmless benign tumors which can become agitated by clothing or jewelry rubbing against them. With a little patience, you can remove skin tags by covering them with duct tape. You can soon show your skin and not feel embarrassed.
Instructions
1. Cut the duct tape into small squares using scissors. The exact size of the duct tape squares will vary due to the size of the skin tags, but you must cover the skin tag completely. Also cover 1/4 inch of the skin all the way around the tag.
2. Peel the duct tape off of your skin slowly when it becomes loose. Do not rip the tape off quickly or you will bleed. The tape should become loose on your skin 1 to 2 days after application.
3. Examine the tape to see if the skin tag is attached to the tape. If not, apply a new piece of duct tape to the skin tag. Slowly peel the tape off of the skin when it becomes loose, 1 to 2 days later.
4. Cover the area with a bandage for 1 day to protect the skin after you have removed the skin tag. The area might be sore for 1 to 2 days, but it should not bleed or ooze.
Tags: duct tape, your skin, tape skin, becomes loose, when becomes, when becomes loose
National, state and local governments have agencies to protect the most vulnerable members of society, such as children. There are several government organizations that directly help children in the areas of health, education and family issues.
National Institute of Child Health and Human Development
In 1962, the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development was created to investigate developmental disabilities and fetal development concerns. The organization has sponsored research which has directly led to the decline of infant death rates by 70 percent. Further research efforts include respirator technology which has increased survival rates for some respiratory diseases from 5 percent in the 1960s to 95 percent as of October 2010. The Back to Sleep education program has reduced the rate of sudden infant death syndrome by more than 50 percent. NICHD also has collaborated with other agencies to see HIV transmissions from birth mothers to newborns drop from 25 percent to less than 2 percent.
Department of Health and Human Services
Working with state and local entities, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services aims to protect the health of citizens, providing human services. The agency mandates that each state improve overall well-being for children and families who receive state assistance. Child and Family Services reviews state conformity with these requirements. For example, the Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth and Families oversees a variety of services for youths, including adoption, child welfare, day care, foster care and juvenile corrections.
Early Head Start
Early Head Start programs offer help to pregnant women and low-income households with young children. The government offers the program on a state-by-state level. The program promotes prenatal care, healthy family dynamics and the educational and emotional development of children. Each state determines its eligibility criteria with family income typically being a factor.
Administration for Children and Families
The Department of Health and Human Services oversees the Administration for Children and Families, which in turn manages federal programs that encourage the social and economic well-being of young people. ACF focuses on economic productivity, community strength, community partnerships and a commitment to all types of disadvantaged people.
Tags: Health Human, Department Health, Department Health Human, Health Human Services, Human Services, Administration Children, Administration Children Families
You can keep your eyes seeing beautifully with a cataract surgery, especially if the right medications are used during surgery.
Cataracts, which are clumps of protein in the eye that occlude vision, are a common cause of partial or complete blindness, particularly in the elderly. Cataracts can be treated with surgery, but the correct medications need to be used to make the procedure a success.
Surgical Necessity
The proteins in the eye that cause cataracts normally float around freely, but when they clump together, the lens of the eye becomes clouded. As of 2009, researchers had not discovered a non-surgical means to break up the proteins naturally without destroying the other, still free-floating proteins in the eye. Consequently, taking medication and replacing the lens of the eye is the accepted treatment for cataracts.
Eye Drops
One of the first medications you will be given for cataract surgery is an eye drop. The purpose of the eye drops is to dilate the pupil. This relaxes the lens so that it can be more easily examined and removed. Most of these eye drops work by blocking the receptors in the eye muscles that are involved in dilation and controlling lens shape. Atropine is an example of these drops.
Sedatives
Some people become extremely nervous when they have any type of medical procedure. If you are anxious, your eye doctor may give you a gentle sedative to calm and relax you enough to stay still during the procedure.
Local or Topical Anesthetic
A local or topical anesthetic will be administered to make the cataract surgery painless for you. The local anesthetic is given through an injection, while the topical anesthetic typically is given in the form of eye drops. Topical anesthesia tends to be less effective, but it is a good choice if you can't stand the idea of needles.
Your Own Medications
It is common for those needing cataract surgery to be on heart medication or antibiotics. You do not need to stop taking medication before cataract surgery. You should tell your eye doctor what medications you are on and the dosage, so that he can use medication and anesthesia that is less likely to react negatively with your current prescriptions. This also will assist the doctor in prescribing an after-procedure pain reliever if needed, or controlling any nausea caused by the medications used during the procedure.
Tags: cataract surgery, cataract surgery, during procedure, medications used, medications used during
Pregnancy ultrasounds are but one type of sonography utilized by doctors.
Sonographers are diagnostic imaging professionals that work in the medical field. Sonographs produce ultrasounds to look at various parts of the human body in order to help doctors diagnose and treat diseases and injuries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of available jobs for sonographers is expected to grow by 18 percent from 2008 to 2018. As of 2008, the highest paid professionals in the field made more than $83,950. Ultrasound training in the state of Virginia can be obtained through certificate or degree programs.
Instructions
1. Locate sonography schools in Virginia and research the types of programs that they offer. There are many different paths into the field of medical sonography, the most common of which is the associate degree. Community colleges in Virginia like Northern Virginia Community College and Tidewater Community College offers associate degrees in this field. Training for these programs generally takes about two years to complete. These programs are accredited by the Commission for the Accreditation of Allied Health Education Professionals (CAAHEP). The Southside Regional Medical Center in Petersburg also offers a two-year certificate program that is CAAHEP accredited.
2. Apply to the schools that best meet your needs. Apply to multiple programs in order to increase your chances of getting accepted and getting to start your program when you want to begin school. Applying to only one school with limited openings could lead to a delay in your education if a more qualified applicant beats you out for admission. You will need to have completed high school and may have to have taken some prerequisite college courses in order to get into some of the programs like the one at the Southside Regional Medical Center. Courses offered by community colleges tend to incorporate the prerequisite courses into the curriculum.
3. Complete your courses and clinical rotations as required by your program. Course of study can include a variety of areas ranging from basic science to diagnostic medical sonography. Many students have to take courses in anatomy and physiology, ultrasound physics and instrumentation, abdominal sonography, breast sonography, vacular sonography, and obstetrical and gynecological sonography. In addition to coursework, you will generally complete clinical rotations where you work alongside another sonographer to gain first-hand experience. Programs vary as to how many of these are required. Both Tidewater Community College and Northern Virginia College require four of these rotations.
4. Seek certification as a medical sonographer. Certification gives your resume further legitimacy in addition to the certificate or degree you have obtained. Certification takes place at the national level through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). This is not required of all sonographers, but it is a step that may help you secure employment. The ARDMS requires that you pass a series of certification exams.
5. Apply for job openings in Virginia medical facilities. Sonographers can work in hospitals, clinics and even private practices of physicians. Locations to apply can include hospitals like Inova Loudoun Hospital in Leesburg, Diagnostic Partners in Richmond, Inova Health System in Falls Church, Carilion Clinic in Roanoke or Danville Regional Medical Center in Danville, Virginia.
Tags: Community College, Medical Center, Regional Medical, Regional Medical Center, certificate degree, clinical rotations, medical sonography
Emergency medical service (EMS) personnel provide emergency out-of-hospital care. They also transport injured or sick patients to hospitals and other medical facilities. Those in this field include not only ambulance workers but firefighter/paramedics and rescue personnel. States and private organizations have grant programs to help fund EMS professionals and services.
National Emergency Medicine Association (NEMA)
Since 1982, this nonprofit organization has been devoted to preventing illness and injury by addressing health issues through technology, equipment, applied research and educational programs. The association's board of directors awards grants to EMS students and professionals every December. The Grants Advisory Board reviews the grant requests and recommends funding for EMS professionals. Those sending a proposal should outline what the grant will accomplish, the period during which the grant will be used, whether the project will continue or expire, the qualifications of those involved with the grant, proof of similar programs in the past and the results.
Kelly A. Herzog, President
National Emergency Medicine Association
P.O. Box 69
Nottingham, MD 21128
410-256-3474
nemahealth.org
Florida Department of Health
The state of Florida offers assistance to EMS professionals through the county grant and matching grant programs. Only Florida's 67 counties are eligible to receive the county grant. The matching grants program has a list of projects that were funded in the past. If an EMS team's project is similar to those on that list, they may be eligible to receive a grant. There are two types of grants: general matching grants and rural matching grants. General matching grants are for private, urban and some rural EMS organizations. The state pays 75 percent of budgets, and the grantee pays 25 percent. Rural matching grants are available to applicants in counties with a population of 100,000 or less and a population density of 100 or fewer people per square mile. The state pays 90 percent of approved budgets and the grantee pays 10 percent.
Bureau of Emergency Services
Florida Department of Health
4025 Esplanade Way
Tallahassee, FL
850 -245-4440
doh.state.fl.us
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
The state of Colorado also offers grant opportunities to EMS professionals. The EMS Account of the Highway User Tax Fund provides these grants. Each year, Colorado raises an emergency fund of $100,000 for EMS and trauma service providers. Eligibility requirements include demonstrating that the need for funds is an an emergency and that a loss of service will result if the grant is not made.
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
HFEMS-A2
4300 Cherry Creek Drive South
Denver, CO 80246-1530
303-692-2980
cdphe.state.co.us
Tags: matching grants, pays percent, budgets grantee, budgets grantee pays, Colorado Department, Colorado Department Public, county grant
Throughout history, society has struggled with treat people with developmental disabilities. The path that started at fear and ridicule has progressed to education and inclusion.
Ancient Times (1500 B.C. to 475 A.D.)
There is little mention of developmental disabilities in ancient histories. We know that many cultures felt they were favored by their gods or were created in their gods' image, and so those who were different were considered inferior.
Medieval Europe (476-1500 A.D.)
According to a presentation from the ARC of Michigan, treatment was not much better for the next 1,000 years. People with developmental disabilities were abandoned, ridiculed or feared.
Colonial Times (1600-1700 A.D.)
Scientists began attempts to understand these individuals, but the general public still feared and ridiculed them. People with developmental disabilities were kept confined at home or in "idiot cages" for their own protection.
Industrial Revolution
The 1800s and early 1900s saw increased awareness, but not increased standard of care. Individuals with developmental disabilities were institutionalized, but not nurtured.
1950s to 1980
Parents spearheaded a movement for the betterment of life for people with developmental disabilities around 1950. According to Parallels in Time, they organized community and legislative efforts to improve the lives of those with disabilities.
1980 to the Present
Conditions have undoubtedly improved for the developmentally disabled. Today, they live in home-like settings, attend school and receive assistance throughout life. They enjoy relationships, community excursions and other trappings of "normalcy."
Tags: developmental disabilities, with developmental, with developmental disabilities, developmental disabilities were, disabilities were, people with
Follow a simple procedure to change Facebook background colors.
Unlike other social network websites, Facebook doesn't allow its users to alter the generic appearance of the website's pages. The pages' colors, including background colors, are part of Facebook's brand image. Because of this factor, the color scheme is hard-coded into the website. If you use the Mozilla Firefox web browser, however, with a little tweaking you can overlay Facebook pages with new colors, altering background colors. The task requires only a copy of Mozilla Firefox, the Greasemonkey add-on software program and the Facebook Auto Colorizer script, all of which are free.
Instructions
1. Install the Greasemonkey add-on. To do this, visit the Greasemonkey web page in the add-on directory section of Mozilla's website, Mozilla.org. On that page, click on the "Add to Firefox" button, and follow the on-screen prompts.
The Greasemonkey software program allows you to run extra lines of code on top of the codes present in a web page you view.
2. Add the Facebook Auto Colorizer script to Greasemonkey. The script is available on UserScripts.org. Click on the link "Remotely hosted version." A box will appear. Click on "Install" in that box.
Scripts are the code packets that Greasemonkey runs. You may run many script packets at a time, which allows you to change the functionality of your Internet browser completely.
3. Visit the Facebook website. Each profile page you visit will change color, including background color, to match the profile picture.
Tags: background colors, Auto Colorizer, Auto Colorizer script, Colorizer script, Facebook Auto, Facebook Auto Colorizer
Keep the focus on how the company will benefit when asking for a salary or position increase.
Many employers won't entertain a pay raise or position upgrade for employees until the employee's annual review. But this doesn't mean that an employee shouldn't be prepared for the evaluation time. If there are plans to ask for a larger salary increase than the normal annual raise or to even push for an upgrade in position, an employee better be ready to explain why he's worth the bonus. Justifying to the employer the reason why the work the employee provides is worth more, is a crucial step to success.
Instructions
1. Keep records. Track the accomplishments that have been achieved since the last employee evaluation. These records should include everything positive that you have accomplished. If you choose to keep an electronic copy of this record, back it up to guard against computer failure. Include the details of each achievement. Telling the employer what you accomplished, how you accomplished it, and what it meant for the company provides a complete picture.
2. Look ahead. Show your employer that while you have accomplished a whole list of things in the past year, you are planning to accomplish more in the year to come. Make a list of ideas on how work flow can be improved, or how profits can be increased with the implementation of your ideas. As you present your ideas, make it all about the company. Don't give the impression that you are sharing these ideas with the sole purpose of gaining a larger paycheck, but that you care about the health and prosperity of the company.
3. Complete a competitive salary search. Take the time to review what competitors are paying employees who are performing comparable tasks to yours. If your salary is in the same ballpark as the competitors, you might want to rethink pushing for a higher salary. But if you find that your employer is below what the competition is paying for the same level of work, then be prepared to show your employer this information. Take care to present salary information in a non-threatening manner. Don't give your employer a reason to encourage you to explore your options with the competition. Rather, show that you are worth what the average professional in your field of expertise is making.
Tags: your employer, employer reason, have accomplished, that have, your ideas
OSHA, or the Occupational Health and Safety Administration is responsible for overseeing the Health and Safety Code of Conduct for workplaces in the United States. All workplace codes have common safety themes.
Overview of Health and Safety Code of Conduct
OSHA, under the U.S. Department of Labor, oversees Health and Safety Codes in the United States. The code provision is 29CF and is broken down into three work areas. Most employment falls under the general industry portion, which is section 1910. This section oversees all issues of health and safety compliance in general industry workplaces.
Section 1910.38: Emergency Action Plan
A fire alarm is important in workplace safety.
Each employer is required to have an emergency action plan. This plan must be in writing and available for any employee to view. The plan must include report an emergency, procedures and policies for evacuations, and record an employee number count.
Section 1910.39 Fire Prevention Plan
Used oil drums might present a hazard.
Section 1910.39 includes fire-prevention measures, including storage of flammable or dangerous chemicals. This section also includes policies for maintenance of heating equipment.
It details guidelines for storing and handling of possible flammable objects. Also, the policy states that a person must be named who will be responsible for overseeing and repairing equipment that might pose a fire hazard, such as heating equipment. An individual must also be named who will keep track of hazardous materials.
Section 1910.151: Medical Services and First Aid
First aid kit must be part of the workplace.
Section 1910:151 deals with medical services,first aid equipment and treatment. Each workplace must have someone on staff who is certified in CPR and first aid. First aid equipment should be visible in each work area.
Tags: Health Safety, Section 1910, Code Conduct, Health Safety Code, Safety Code
Breast cancer usually begins in cells of ducts in the breast. There are four stages of breast cancer which are important to know if you are diagnosed with this type of cancer.
Stage 0
In Stage 0 of breast cancer, abnormal cells are located. The cells are only in the duct or lobe of the breast and have not spread to other tissues.
Stage I
During Stage I, the abnormal cells have turned into cancer. The tumor is only located in the breast and is under two centimeters in size.
Stage II
In Stage IIA, cancer is smaller than two centimeters and in the lymph nodes or larger than two centimeters and in the breast. In IIB, the tumor is two to five centimeters and in the lymph nodes or over five centimeters but not in the lymph nodes.
Stage IIIA and IIIB
Stage IIIA, the two-to-five centimeter tumor may be only in the breast. In Stage IIIB, the tumor can be any size and has spread to lymph nodes or the chest wall.
Stage IIIC
Stage IIIC which is operable is found in lymph nodes below the collarbone. Stage IIIC that is inoperable has spread to lymph nodes above the collarbone.
Stage IV
In Stage IV of breast cancer, the cancer has spread to distant organs such as the liver, lungs or brain.
A couple struggling to conceive may not have infertility coverage through their insurance.
Infertility is a medical condition that impacts one out of every eight couples, according to RESOLVE, the National Infertility Organization. While many health conditions are treated through health insurance that is offered by an employer, infertility is often not included with the coverage. Some states mandate infertility coverage, and some employers and health plans offer the option of infertility coverage without the mandate.
Instructions
1. Contact the human resources department at your current employer to determine if infertility is covered by your insurance. The human resources department will provide you with the plan documents that state what aspects of infertility coverage may be available to you specific to your insurance.
2. Call your insurance company if you need further clarification on infertility coverage. Ask if assisted reproductive procedures and medications are covered.
3. Research other employers to determine whether they offer infertility coverage. The magazine "Conceive" puts out a list of the top companies that offer infertility and adoption coverage., The InterNational Council on Infertility Information Dissemination (INCIID) also maintains a list online of companies that offer infertility coverage.
4. Obtain the general phone number for a company that has infertility coverage by using a phone book or search engine.
5. Call an employer that is listed as having infertility coverage and ask to speak to their human resources department. When you speak to the human resources department, you can verify that infertility is covered and ask specific questions regarding the type of coverage that you need.
Tags: infertility coverage, human resources, human resources department, resources department, offer infertility, your insurance
Most Americans receive health insurance through their employers, meaning that once out of work, coverage can pose a problem. In 1986, Congress passed the Consolidated Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA). This law allows for the continuation of health care coverage in instances where a recipient normally would have lost it. The law only allows this coverage in certain instances.
Basics
The basic workings of COBRA allow participants to continue receiving health insurance coverage at group rates after an event that terminates regular coverage. The employer no longer contributes to coverage, so it will cost more but usually still less than if a participant sought individual coverage.
Qualifying Factors
Plans that qualify to offer COBRA coverage include those that covered at least 20 employees for at least 50 percent of business days in the previous year. A participant must have been covered the day before the qualifying event, and this includes the employee, spouse or dependent children. Children born or adopted during the COBRA period also qualify. Qualifying events include but are not limited to quitting or getting fired from a job (gross misconduct nullifies this), reduction in hours, divorce or separation from covered employee and death of spouse or parent who received coverage.
Electing Coverage
Employers have the responsibility of notifying plan administrators within 30 days when a qualifying event occurs. In the event of a divorce or separation or lost coverage for a dependent child, the qualifying beneficiary must notify the administrator within two months of the event. Once notified, the plan administrator has two weeks to notify the employer or other beneficiary information on begin coverage. Qualified people have 60 days to choose coverage once notified. Once a participant elects coverage, she has 45 days to pay the first premium.
Coverage Length
In most cases, a participant can receive health insurance benefits under this plan for up to 18 months. In some instances, the plan can extend to up to three years. An individual company can elect to provide coverage longer than COBRA limits. In certain instances, a participant can lose coverage. Examples include failure to pay premiums, qualifying for Medicare while under COBRA, employee cancellation of group health plan, starting a health insurance plan under a new employer that does not restrict coverage for pre-existing conditions.
Conversion
If the carrier offers individual insurance plans, it must offer this option to COBRA participants within the six month period before COBRA coverage ends. The company does not have to do this if the person ends COBRA coverage before she reaches the maximum length of her policy.
Tags: health insurance, COBRA coverage, certain instances, divorce separation, qualifying event, receive health
Medical claim processors encode and coordinate information related to patient health care while working with health insurance carriers to get claims paid on behalf of patients.
Education Requirements
To become a medical claim processor, you need a high school diploma and typically two years prior work in the medical or insurance office.
Alternate Name
Some medical facilities refer to a medical claim processor as a medical billing clerk.
Work Enviroment
A medical claim processor can work in a hospital, clinic, doctor's office or from home.
Career Outlook
The health services industry will continue to grow and need employees, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This industry is the largest employer of billing professionals.
Salary
The Bureau of Labor Statistics puts the median income for medical claim processors in the upper $20,000 range.
Tags: medical claim processor, Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics, claim processor, claim processors, Description Medical, Description Medical Claim
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) notes that canine influenza (dog flu) was first discovered at dog tracks in 2004. It is easily transmitted by contact with canine respiratory fluids and also by contact with inanimate objects exposed to infected animals.
Dog flu is typically associated with environments where large numbers of dogs are kept in close quarters. The disease spreads rapidly, and the AVMA estimates that dog flu produces symptoms in about 80 percent of exposed dogs. There is currently no vaccine available, and a dog is susceptible if he has not had an opportunity to build immunity to the virus that causes dog flu.
Symptoms
The AVMA describes dog flu as a viral respiratory disease that causes symptoms including cough, nasal discharge and general signs of illness. Dogs may become dehydrated. The mild form of canine influenza can be confused with kennel cough.
Severe Form
Although canine influenza is not usually fatal, it can lead to secondary bacterial infections, including pneumonia. The severe form of dog flu is characterized by a respiratory symptoms and a high fever ranging from 104 to 106 degrees Fahrenheit. The AVMA advises that dogs infected with the severe form of dog flu should receive hydration and medication, including antimicrobial elements to prevent secondary infection.
Easily Spread
Shelters, boarding kennels and breeding facilities are all vulnerable to dog flu due to its rapid transmission. Handlers and owners must follow sanitation protocols when feeding and cleaning to prevent spread of canine influenza. The AVMA recommends cleaning kennels and equipment with a 1/30 solution of bleach and water to kill the canine influenza virus and avoid spreading it.
No Cure Yet
Canine influenza is thought to have developed from a form of equine influenza virus. To date, there is no vaccine or other treatment to cure dog flu. The AVMA recommends that animals displaying respiratory distress or nasal discharge should be isolated and evaluated by a veterinarian.
No Human Risk
The AVMA states that no documented cases of human infection with canine influenza have occurred.
Bone spurs, or bony growths on the bone, are painful and annoying. These little growths on the bones can occur as a result of osteoarthritis, calcified tendons or ligaments around the bone or from trauma to the bone. The spurs themselves are usually not painful, but they may be when they begin to disturb ligaments and nerves surrounding the area.
Instructions
1. Go to your doctor and talk to him about your bone spur. Find out what the root cause is. If it is a calcium deposit, you may need to be tested for to see if the spur has formed out of your body's inability to absorb calcium. If this is the case, have a series of tests done to rule out something more serious like kidney or bone disease.
2. Rest the area as much as possible. If your bone spur is on your arm, your doctor may recommend a sling. If the spur is on your foot, the doctor may recommend crutches for a short amount of time.
3. Place an ice pack on your bone spur when it starts to hurt. You may also take anti-inflammatories to reduce the pain.
4. Increase your intake of calcium and vitamin D. In addition to supplements, try and take in foods with these nutrients such as cheese, milk and yogurt.
5. If it is ruled that your bone spur is simply a calcium deposit, soak a brown paper bag in apple cider vinegar.Cut out a piece and place it around the affected area and fasten with a bandage. Leave it on until the spur has lessened.
6. Talk to your doctor if the spur becomes extremely painful. If increased calcium, vitamin D and apple cider vinegar do not decrease the spur, you may need to have it surgically removed if it is still causing problems.
Tags: bone spur, your bone, your bone spur, your doctor, apple cider
In today's society, people are consistently attempting to lose as much weight as possible in the least amount of time, without considering the ramifications of losing too much weight too quickly. This article explores the effects of rapid weight loss to reinforce the importance of proper nutrition.
Causes
Rapid weight loss is usually caused by extreme low calorie diets, medically referred to as fasting, which consists of 800 calories or less per day. Famous low calorie diets include the cabbage soup diet, various detox diets and any other "crash" diet that restricts the amount of calories you can intake. Other causes could be from stomach restricting surgeries, which also require a lower calorie intake.
Physical Effects
1. Decreased Metabolism
After embarking on a low calorie diet, the body reacts in various ways. First, the body's metabolism will decrease in response to a lower calorie intake. Once this occurs, the body goes into what is often referred to as "hibernation mode," conserving energy and calories and burning muscle mass for missing protein and nutrients. The resulting slower metabolism thus requires calories to gain weight, so if you accidentally slip and eat more than intended on your calorie plan, it is easier for your body to horde those calories and retain weight easier than it had previously. This makes it easier than ever for people to gain weight, and since most low calorie diets do not last long, most people end up putting on more weight than where they had originally started.
2. Gallstones
Another common side effect of low calorie dieting is the body's creation of gall stones. Because of the limited calorie intake, there is a decrease in flow and increase of bile, often resulting in gall stones in the gallbladder. These are often too small to be painful, but could cause problems with continued low calorie dieting; thus, medically induced low calorie dieters are encouraged to drink a minimum of 5 liters of water a day.
3. Nutritional Deficiencies
Nutritional deficiencies also become apparent on low calorie diets. Because of these food restrictions, many necessary nutritional requirements become absence in the diet, such as iron, vitamin B12, sodium and potassium, especially in low carbohydrate or low fat diets. Lack of iron can result in anemia, while vitamin B12 has been linked to decreased mental health states. Sodium and potassium are instrumental in regulating heart function, and serious deficiencies with these nutrients could potentially lead to a heart attack if the levels are low enough. Additionally, osteoporosis is also common among long term low calorie dieters due to a lack of calcium.
4. Loss of Muscle Mass and Vital Organ Deficiencies
When you go on a low calorie diet, your body is severely lacking required nutritional elements to function. In order to keep your body functioning, it must utilize and convert protein from your muscles to keep your vital organs functioning. If continued, low calorie diets are continued, the liver, kidneys, gallbladder and heart could be severely damaged.
Additionally, muscle mass weighs twice as much as fat. If your body starts burning muscle mass to make up for lack of a good nutritional diet, then it would seem that you are losing an incredible amount of weight on the scale. In reality, however, you're not really losing fat, and instead, are further aiding a decreasing metabolism and lack of proper nutrition.
Also during the burning of muscle for protein, "water weight" is also lost quickly (since water is a primary component of muscle composition), often leading to dehydration.
5. Excess Skin, Shivering and Hair Loss
If you continue to lose weight rapidly, the fat layer closest to the skin is usually the first to go. When you lose this weight rapidly, the skin does not have time to tighten or firm, leaving excess flaps of skin. This is most common with restrictive stomach reducing surgeries.
Because of the rapid loss of this outer fat layer, especially in weight loss surgery, shivering becomes commonplace. This is due to the fact that the outer layer of fat was previously used for insulation, and the body has not yet replaced this layer with new muscle tissue.
Lastly, because protein intake is usually limited in low calorie diets, the body stops providing required protein to hair follicles, instead providing the limited protein it can burn from muscles to vital organs. This often leads to hair loss.
Mental Effects
Depression and Mood
Because of nutritional deficiencies, particularly in the vitamin realm, it's common for the mind to become depressed or unhappy. Also, because of the varied effects, people often become depressed from lack of proper long term results, increasing the probability of eating disorders like anorexia or bulimia.
Prevention/Solution
In order to prevent the effects of rapid weight loss, it is important to ensure that you are following the advice of a certified doctor. It is recommended that you lose no more than 1 to 2 lbs. per week for effective, healthy weight loss.
Warning
If you are concerned about any potential symptoms or side effects that you may be experiencing, be sure that you consult a doctor immediately.
Tags: calorie diets, your body, burning muscle, calorie intake, muscle mass, weight loss, become depressed
Crystalized cells in breast tissue may refer to cancer, but that's not necessarily the case.
Scientists are constantly studying new ways to detect and cure breast cancer, while also determining who is most likely to get it. One term that appears in their reports, crystallized cells, may be used to define a finding, help with a diagnosis or identify DNA.
Radiology
Results of ultrasound and mammography may refer to crystallized cells in the breast tissue, usually found in areas that contain scar tissue.
Calcifications
The term crystallized in reference to radiological findings may actually refer to calcifications, tiny deposits of calcium, on the breast.
Diagnosis
Samples of breast tissue which are frozen for biopsy can show formation of crystals in cells which are malignant, identifying breast cancer.
DNA
Scientists at The Scripps Research Institute found, through crystallized cells, a component of DNA that helps those with it avoid cancer. This component may also be resistant to chemotherapy.
Considerations
Crystalized cells in the breast tissue mean a number of different things and may not be anything to worry about. Discuss any concerns you have with your doctor, who can explain your particular results better.
Tags: cells breast tissue, crystallized cells, breast cancer, breast tissue, breast tissue, cells breast, Crystalized cells
Lymph nodes, small bean-like glands surrounded by tissue, are located throughout the human body along the lymphatic system. When they are functioning normally, lymph nodes filter bacteria and toxins from the lymph fluid in the body. When cancer strikes the lymphatic system, the lymph nodes suffer, and the cancer patient may experience one or more common symptoms. Lymph node cancer (lymphoma) generally fits into one of two categories, Hodgkin's disease or Non-Hodgkin's disease. The symptoms of both are similar.
Swollen nodes
One of the earliest noticeable symptoms of lymph node cancer involves the swelling of the individual lymph glands. In parts of the body where the lymph nodes are near the skin's surface, including the sides of the neck, the armpits and the groin area, they may feel like enlarged bumps or lumps that may or may not be tender to the touch. Although swollen lymph nodes are a symptom of numerous disorders, they should be brought to the attention of a doctor.
Pain
A generalized tenderness in the area of a swollen lymph node may occur during the early stages of lymph node cancer, before symptoms that are more serious appear. The pain may increase after drinking alcohol. As the cancer progresses, lymph nodes in the abdomen may cause pain in the spleen may swell, creating tenderness in the abdomen and a feeling of fullness.
Appetite and Weight loss
The loss of appetite and the subsequent loss of weight are common with the progression of lymph node cancer. However, these symptoms are common in many medical disorders, and a physician should examine the patient to rule out another condition.
Additional symptoms
The cancer patient may suffer from additional symptoms when lymph node cancer strikes. Unexplained lethargy or fatigue is common, and the patient may run a low-grade fever, resulting in night sweats and chills. Some patients may experience itching that is not relieved by topical anti-itch creams. Chest pain and coughing may accompany lymph node cancer if the lymph glands within the chest are affected.
Diagnosis
Since the lymphatic system is involved in many other medical conditions, a doctor must order blood tests and conduct a physical exam before making a diagnosis. He may also take X-rays of the chest and abdomen and perform a biopsy of a swollen lymph node.
Auto insurance coverage insures you not only for injuries that you may cause to another party and their property, it also provides protection for you, your passengers and your vehicle. There are a varying amount of coverage selections, and you must select the coverages that meet your needs. The first step in your selection is to understand the basic coverages.
Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability
Bodily injury coverage insures the injuries caused to the other party should you be deemed at fault for the accident. The property damage coverage insures the resulting damage to the other party's vehicle. These coverages are required in most states.
Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Liability
Uninsured motorist coverage insures your resulting injuries should you be hit by someone who has no insurance coverage. Underinsured motorist liability insures your injuries if you are hit by someone who does not have enough coverage. These coverages are commonly sold along with liability, and are very inexpensive.
Medical Payment Coverage
Medical payment coverage provides additional medical assistance for emergency room visits, surgery and follow-up visits. This is usually an optional coverage.
Comprehensive and Collision Coverage
Comprehensive coverage covers your vehicle from fire, theft, acts of nature and acts of fowl. Collision coverage covers your vehicle should you strike a non-moving object with your vehicle. You cannot purchase collision coverage without comprehensive coverage.
Rental Reimbursement and Towing
You can select rental reimbursement coverage when you also select comprehensive and collision coverage on your policy. The coverage becomes effective when you are involved in a claim that results in damage to an insured vehicle. Towing coverage insures claim and non-claim tows based on policy specifics.
Tags: coverage insures, your vehicle, collision coverage, coverage covers, coverage covers your, covers your
It is essential to have a general knowledge of human anatomy to understand how your body functions and how you can take care of it. The skeletal system is an important part of anatomy. There are more than 200 bones in the human body. Of these hundreds of bones there are only four different types: long bones, short bones, flat bones and irregular bones.
Long Bones
Long bones are strong, large, curved and wide. They are found in the arms and legs and include the femur, humerus, tibia, toes, arms, legs and fingers. These bones work as levers.
Short Bones
Short bones are short, spongy and cube-shaped. These bones are covered with compact tissue and are found in the wrist, hands, knees, feet and ankles. More than half of the bones in the hands and feet are short bones.
Flat Bones
Flat bones protect vital human organs and muscle attachments. These bones are thin, flat and broad and have layers of compact tissue and a spongy layer in between them. The ribs, skull, sternum, pectoral girdle and pelvic girdle are all flat bones.
Irregular Bones
Irregular bones are all the bones in the human body that do not fit into the other categories. They all have different shapes and sizes, and contain spongy and compact tissue in different proportions and surface features. Since these bones are so different from one another, they don't fit into any separate categories and thus are named "irregular bones."
Tags: compact tissue, arms legs, bones human, Bones Human, Bones Human Body, bones human body
The California Healthy Families Program's (CHFP) purpose is to provide low cost insurance for health, dental and vision coverage to uninsured children of families who are low income but who do not qualify for Medi-Cal.
History
CHFP began in July of 1998, in response to the Children's Health Insurance Program, approved by Congress in 1997. One year later, 145,000 children were enrolled and by September 2003, 690,000 had enrolled.
Funding
The program is funded by a combination of federal government and California state funds. Since its inception, funding has been at risk numerous times. In early 2009, President Obama signed the Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2009. This law gave states an additional four and one half years of funding. In 2009, the cost of insurance to families of enrolled children ranged from $4 to a maximum of $51 per family per month.
Enrollment Qualifications
Children enrolling in CHFP must be under the age of 19 and either a U.S. citizen or a legal immigrant. Family income guidelines change each April, but qualifying family income can be two to three times higher than that allowed for Medi-Cal.
Health Plans
The program offers 36 plans from a variety of providers, including Blue Shield, Blue Cross, Kaiser Permanente and local counties.
Coverage
CHFP covers hospital care, doctor care, prescription drugs, well-child and preventive screening services, family planning, mental health care, alcohol and drug treatment, physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, lab services, dental and eye care.
Tags: California Healthy, California Healthy Families, Children Health, Children Health Insurance, cost insurance, Families Program
Gamma oryzanol has shown potential in the treatment of various diseases including menopause.
Gamma oryzanol is a cocktail of substances extracted from rice bran oil including sterols and ferulic acid. It is used to treat conditions like menopausal symptoms, mild anxiety, stomach problems and high cholesterol in Japan. In United States, it is widely used for reducing cholesterol and increasing testosterone and human growth hormone levels. But it requires more research to substantiated its true effects on the treatments of ailments.
Anxiety Treatment
The history of Gamma oryzanol manifests its way back to the 1950s and 1960s when it was medically used in Japan to treat anxiety. Japan now manufactures 7,500 tons of gamma oryzanol from 150,000 tons of rice brans, according to the U.S. News and World Report. Most of the research on the efficacy of oryzanol has been done in Japan. Some studies have also looked into the effects of oryzanol on the skin to treat skin condition. Although such studies indicated it might be useful, more research need to be done to establish the true effects on health.
Body Building
Gamma oryzanol is a cocktail of ferulic acid esters and triterpene alcohols, and it occurs in rice bran oil at a level of 1 to 2 percent, according to U.S. News and World Report. In the U.S., it is often sold as a body building aid to boost testosterone levels, trigger the release of pain-releasing pain releasing substances made in the body called endorphins and promote the growth of lean muscle tissues. According to U.S. News and World Report, almost all the studies on Gamma Oryzanol do not support any of these claims.
Cholesterol Levels
Gamma Oryzanol is believed to reduce cholesterol from food, according to WebMD. .There is preliminary evidence that gamma oryzanol may reduce hyperlipidemia, or high cholesterol, according to the National Institute of Health. But like in most other cases, more studies are needed It is also known to ease heartburn and digestive-system discomforts. According to Great Vista Chemicals, ulcer patients have also taken it with some success.
Menopausal Symptoms and Restenosis Treatment
Oryzanol has also shown the potential to reduce menopausal symptoms. But U.S. News and World Report says the results must treated cautiously because the treatment of menopause symptoms has a high placebo effect. Most studies are required to substantiate its true effects on menopausal symptoms. Gamma oryzanol has also be used in the restenosis, the return of blood vessels blockages after coronary dilation in combination with ticlopidine and probucol. But again, most studies are required to establish its true effects on the treatment.
Tags: News World, News World Report, true effects, World Report, menopausal symptoms, establish true, establish true effects
Making prescriptions affordable for those on Medicare.
If you qualify for Extra Help through the Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage, also called Part D, the government will pay 85 to 100 percent of your prescription drug costs. To qualify, you must be a Medicare beneficiary, have limited income and resources, and reside in one of the 50 states or the District of Columbia. You must be enrolled in a Medicare Prescription Drug plan to get this extra help. Many people don't realize that they qualify for this help, and that all they need to do is apply for it.
Instructions
1. Visit Social Security Online and read the Benefit Publications Section article "Tips for Completing the Application for Extra Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Costs (Publication No 05-10122)."
2. Read SSA Publication No. 05-10128 to discover what you need to complete the application. Complete the worksheet within this publication to help you decide if you are eligible and to assist you in completing the actual application for extra help.
3. Complete an online application through the Social Security website, or through BenefitsCheckUp.org. If you prefer to apply by telephone, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).
4. Choose a Medicare prescription drug plan. If you need information about available plans or enroll in a plan, call 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY 1-877-486-2048) or visit Medicare.gov. If you do not select a plan, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) will do it for you.
Tags: Medicare Prescription Drug, Social Security, Medicare Prescription, Prescription Drug, that they
Spouses may elect to maintain separate health care coverage from their employers.
In a society where a husband and wife often work outside the home, situations where both spouses have their own employee-sponsored health insurance are not uncommon. In many cases, this can work to a family's advantage by providing access to additional coverage if needed. Certain procedures exist to determine which policy will provide primary coverage and to avoid a duplication in benefits.
Primary Coverages
In most cases, when spouses have separate health insurance coverage from an employer, their own policy will provide primary coverage. For instance, if a spouse needs coverage for a medical condition, he needs to file the claim through the policy offered by his own employer instead of his wife's company; however, if the claim is denied, the husband can consider obtaining coverage by filing a claim under his policy. He may also pursue additional coverage under his wife's policy if he a claim exceeds his policy coverage amounts.
Coordination of Benefits
In many cases, an individual's health coverage at work extends coverage to her dependents, including her spouse who may also have his own coverage for himself and his dependents. To avoid duplication of coverage in these situations, group health insurance plans typically include a provision known as "coordination of benefits." Each spouse's own policy will provide primary coverage, with the other spouse's policy providing excess coverage in accordance with the coordination of benefits provision.
Birthday Rule
Complications may arise when a couple's children are listed as dependents on the policies of both spouses. To resolve this issue, the so-called "birthday rule" was established. In essence, this rule states that primary coverage for the children is provided by the policy of the parent whose birthday comes first in the calendar year. The other spouse's policy is used to provide excess coverage or fill coverage gaps if necessary.
Considerations
While coordination of benefits provisions allow families to maximize their health insurance coverage, the intent is not for people to profit from health insurance. Coordination of benefits ensures that duplication of coverage will not occur so couples are not paid twice for the same event. Instead, families may have access to additional benefits that may not be available through the primary policy, which can help keep health care costs to a minimum.
Tags: health insurance, primary coverage, policy will, policy will provide, provide primary, provide primary coverage, spouse policy
After an initial diagnosis of cancer, the patient must continually face months or years of challenges related to the diagnosis. Challenges are not only emotional and physical, they can be financial, sexual, spiritual, or even related to understanding technical terms. According to the National Cancer Institute, having family and friends available for support has a positive effect on how patients adjusts to their diagnosis and treatment. Ask the patient for permission to help. Once you receive the go ahead, follow through.
Instructions
1. Return phone calls and emails the patient receives when she's unable to do so herself. Ask her to help you make a list of people she'd like to keep informed about her treatment and how often she'd like them to be informed of her progress. Call or email each person on the list at the appropriate intervals.
2. Run errands for the patient. Have the patient make a list of places you need to go. Help him keep track of what needs to be done; mental fogginess can be a side effect of chemotherapy.
3. Take her laundry home with you and do it. Return it in a couple of days.
4. Drive him to appointments and go in with him. For chemo treatments, take books and magazines for you both to help pass the time. For doctor appointments, take a pad of paper and a pen to write down what the doctor says for the patient. Go over the information with him when he feels up to it to ensure he understands everything the doctor said. The National Cancer Institute indicates that good communication between patients and doctors often helps the patient feel more in control. This feeling lessens the patient's anxiety.
5. Cook a week's worth of freezable meals and deliver them to her. Follow any nutritional guidelines set by the patient's physician and take into account whether the smell of any particular foods bring on nausea in the patient.
6. Arrange for the patient's housework and yard maintenance. Enlist a crew of friends to take turns performing the tasks.
7. Watch for signs of depression that occur frequently and don't go away. Signs include feeling sad most days, loss of interest in activities he used to enjoy, feelings of guilt and changes in sleeping habits. Some symptoms can be attributed to treatment, but that's for a doctor to determine. Talk to the patient about how he's feeling and explain why you believe he needs to see her doctor. Go with him to the appointment.
Tags: Cancer Institute, effect chemotherapy, make list, National Cancer, National Cancer Institute, side effect, side effect chemotherapy
Chemotherapy treatment in the United States can be significantly expensive depending on the kind of drugs prescribed and length of treatment. Other factors include how often the treatment is administered and where the patient is taking the treatment. Most health insurance companies have policies that pay a portion of the costly procedures, but unfortunately newer and more efficient drugs are oftentimes not covered.
Procedure
Chemotherapy treatment cost in the United States is estimated based on various factors including patient test results and required services and procedures for treatment. Doctors ultimately determine the depth of treatment needed, but it can be understood that the lengthier and more involved the treatment, the higher the overall cost. Chemotherapy procedures generally range from around $8,000 to over $15,000, but this does not include the cost of necessary drugs that accommodate the procedure.
Drugs
Necessary drug treatment can be the most expensive part of chemotherapy treatment. Common chemotherapeutic drugs such as leucovorin and 5-FU can cost as little as $100 for an eight-week dosage. However, if a doctor recommends the addition of irinotecan or oxaliplatin, the cost to the patient can increase to $10,000. The cost can rise to $20,000 or $30,000 if cetuximab or bevacizaumab is also needed.
According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention, one in five patients is not able to get necessary cancer treatment in time or at all because of the high cost. Drug treatment, and therefore cost, is determined based on the severity of the problem and medical needs of the patient. Whether the patient's medical insurance or resources cover it is an entirely different matter.
Cosmetic
Sometimes during the chemotherapy procedure a patient will lose a portion or all of her hair, so she may need to purchase a wig, which can cost as much as $2,000. Skin creams, skin repair products and headwear such as hats or bandannas add to the cost.
Travel
During chemotherapy there is often a large amount of travel required going to and from the hospital for treatments. This can add to the overall expense with many months of accumulated gas costs, parking fees and car maintenance bills.
Work Loss
Other costs not necessarily originating from a hospital or doctor can include personal losses and inconvenience. Work time lost is a significant issue for many cancer patients.
Tags: Chemotherapy treatment, from hospital, United States