Get Free Medical Care In Texas

It is possible to obtain quality healthcare, even when times are tough.

The inability to afford quality health insurance is becoming epidemic. In some areas of Texas, many adults cannot afford health insurance, making healthcare inaccessible to a large percentage of the Texas population. Fortunately, there are government-run and private services available to help low-income individuals and families stay healthy with free and supplemental health care.

Medicaid

Contact the Texas Health and Human Services Commission to inquire about Medicaid. This is a program offered to qualifying individuals based on income and household size. The medical costs covered under Medicaid include emergency health care, family health care, and vision and dental care. Request an application from the HHSC by phone or download a copy from the HHSC website (hhsc.state.tx.us). Complete the application and return it to the HHSC by mail, or you can complete it online. You now must wait for the commission to review your qualifications for the program.

CHIP and Children's Medicaid

Apply for free medical care for children under the Children's Health Insurance Program if you are not eligible for Medicaid. Another program that provides free medical care for kids is the Children's Medicaid program. These programs are designed to provide medical coverage for children less than 19 years of age in low-income households that do not qualify for Medicaid.

Free Clinics

While the cost of medical care often prevents some from receiving regular care, there are private and charitable clinics that help ease the medical cost burden by providing free services to individuals and families with low incomes. Look for free medical care at clinics in larger Texas cities, such as the H.O.M.E.S. Clinic in Houston. Some clinics also offer a partial pay program for low-income families.

Women's Health Services

The Texas Women's Health Program is designed to provide low-income women with quality preventative and family planning health care services. Services covered under this program include regular annual pap smears, birth control pills and other contraceptives, breast and cervical cancer screening, and screening for diabetes and other disorders.

Tags: health care, medical care, Children Medicaid, covered under, designed provide, free medical, free medical care

What Are The Duties Of Medical Transcriptionist For Veteran Affairs

What Are the Duties of Medical Transcriptionist for Veteran Affairs?

The United States Department of Veterans Affairs was set up to help former soldiers live long and prosperous lives after their service to their country. Among other services, this department provides medical benefits and health care with more than 1,400 sites of care. To keep track of all of the veterans and their health histories and needs, the department hires medical transcriptionists, who have a variety of duties.

Transcribing

As the title would imply, a medical transcriptionist for the Department of Veterans Affairs is responsible for transcribing a large variety of medical documents. These documents include patient histories, physical reports, doctors' orders and psychological or psychiatric reports for each patient.

These transcribed notes, whether they are histories or current prescriptions, are vital to running an effective health care system. The doctors and other caretakers who serve the veteran in conjunction with Veterans Affairs must have accurate information regarding their patients at all times, and it is the job of the medical transcriptionist to make sure these documents are as accurate as can be.

Editing

On top of simply transcribing the documents from doctors, the medical transcriptionist is also responsible for proofreading and editing these documents. This could be as simple as adding a period and deleting a comma in a doctor's note to a patient or to another doctor.

On the other hand, the editing and proofreading can be much more important than misplaced punctuation. The transcriptionist must make sure that these documents are as clear and accurate as possible. This may mean that the transcriptionist changes some of the doctor's words, interpreting and evaluating meaning in order to make it clearer to those who will read it later. The transcriptionist is also responsible for clarifying any unclear or incomplete notes or statements made by the doctor; she must verify with the patient, doctor or other records that the information is complete and correct.

It is extremely important, however, that the transcriptionist can make these clarifying edits without changing the meaning of the doctor's words. A mistaken history or prescription assignment can permanently injure or even kill a person, and so these records must be accurate and clear.

Learning

While most people applying for a medical transcriptionist position will generally have a college education or specialized training, the learning for this position never stops, and any employee must be ready to continue to learn and change. Transcriptionists must learn the shorthand and abbreviations of every doctor with whom they work, as well as the extensive database of medical terms, conditions, prescriptions and other definitions. In order clarify and edit doctor's information, they will need to understand the conditions, symptoms, medications and other facts included in patient histories and doctor notes.

Similarly, transcriptionists will need to learn the intimate working details of the Department of Veterans Affairs itself, in regards to what health services veterans receive and what information the doctors and patients need to remain informed and stay healthy.

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National Cancer Institute Treatment

According to Mayo Clinic statistics, cancer is the second leading cause of death. Cure rates and treatment options vary depending on where the cancer began, if it has spread to other parts of the body and a person's prior medical history. The National Cancer Institute, a sub-organization of the National Institute of Health is the world's leading cancer research institute. NCI seeks to find successful cutting-edge cancer treatments and improvements to existing cancer treatments. Through research trials, the NCI aims to one day cure cancer completely.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is one of the NCI's main cancer treatment recommendations. Administered orally, through an injection or via topical cream, chemotherapy relies on a variety of drugs to attack the cancer cells in your body and destroy them. Depending on how far your cancer has progressed, chemotherapy may cure the cancer outright, slow the cancer's advancement through your body or in late-stage cancer or control cancer symptoms (known as palliative care). Chemotherapy is often used in conjunction with other cancer treatment methods.

As chemotherapy often produces extremely unpleasant side effects such as intense nausea, hair loss and bleeding, doctors work hard to find an ideal balance between the drugs' effectiveness and your everyday comfort and safety. Sometimes your doctor may have to adjust chemotherapy dosage, medication type or how it is administered. In general, chemotherapy lasts until your cancer disappears and for some time after that so you don't experience relapse. The NCI also recommends chemotherapy cycles (perhaps two weeks of treatment, followed by two weeks of rest) for certain patients and cancer types.

Radiation

Another NCI-recommended treatment is radiation therapy. During radiation therapy, ionized rays are aimed at the cancer cells in your body. The rays destroy cancer cells in an effort to shrink the tumor. Radiation treatment is mostly used to control and hopefully cure solid (tumor-based) forms of cancer such as breast, prostate and lung cancers. Depending on the location of your cancer, you may receive external radiation therapy or internal radiation therapy whereby the radiation-delivering device is inserted deep into your body. During another type of radiation therapy known as systemic radiation you will take medication that contains radioactive materials. Injected or administered orally, systemic radiation is most often used for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and thyroid cancer.

Because radiation exposes the patient to many potentially harmful radioactive materials, doctors must exercise caution so that they do not make a patient "radioactive." NCI's continued radiation research has ensured that the only portion of your body that will become radioactive is the tumor region itself.

Surgery

For certain types of cancer, the NCI recommends surgery as a vital step to recovery. Surgical procedures will remove tumors and cancer cells from your body. In the process, your doctor may remove parts of organs. For instance, part of your colon may have to be removed if you have colon cancer. Often patients who receive surgery will also receive chemotherapy and/or radiation to ensure that all the cancer cells are accounted for and to prevent future relapse.

Not all surgical procedures require the surgeon to perform major open-body operations. The NCI suggests a type of procedure known as cryosurgery for some types of cancer. Cryosurgery uses liquid nitrogen to destroy cancer cells and prevent additional cell division. External cancers and certain early-stage internal cancers, such as some forms of bone cancer and prostate cancer, benefit most from cryosurgery. The NCI is currently conducting many additional trials to see if cryosurgery will work effectively on other cancers such as breast or kidney cancer.

Biological Therapy

Biological therapy is a new weapon in the NCI's cancer fight. This emerging set of therapies works to change your body's natural response to cancer cells. Biological therapies include potential vaccines (for cancers such as breast and lung cancer) and biological response modifiers. The goal with biological therapies is to use your body's immune system to recognize and fight cancer cells. Currently, biological therapies are used most often to manage side effects of more prominent cancer treatments such as chemotherapy.

Research Therapies

Every day the NCI attempts to discover more effective cancer-treatment methods and ways to improve upon existing methods. One such experimental therapy is called gene therapy. Researchers believe that many types of cancer are due to damaged genes or perhaps missing genes. During gene therapy, healthy genetic material (DNA and RNA) is reintroduced into the body to replace damaged genes. Other genetic treatment research focuses on using genes to improve the effectiveness of existing cancer treatment methods and stimulating the body's immune system to fight the cancer on its own.

Additional research/experimental therapies advocated by the NCI include angiogenesis therapy (inhibitors used to prevent the spread of new cancerous blood cells), hyperthermia treatment (high heat used to destroy cancer cells) and photodynamic (the use of medicine and light to destroy cancer cells).

Tags: cancer cells, your body, radiation therapy, destroy cancer, destroy cancer cells

Use Medical Terminology

Health care workers including physicians, nurses, medical transcriptionists, insurance coders and claims processors, medical technicians and other allied health professionals must have a working knowledge of medical terminology. Medical terminology refers to those words, phrases, symbols, and abbreviations used in medical language. This universal language describes the equipment, tools, procedures and drugs used in treating patients. Because health care professionals in various areas of specialty must relay information to each other, there are numerous instances in which it is necessary to use medical terminology.

Instructions

1. Save time when documenting a patient's symptoms, history, diagnosis, and treatment to be entered into the permanent medical record. There are hundreds of common abbreviations used for patient charting that allow doctors to quickly record information and give instructions to patients and other medical personnel.

2. Discuss a patient's condition. Medical terminology permits health care professionals to communicate their observations or other information related to the patient in writing. Use of this universal language gives doctors, nurses and other allied health workers the ability to share information with each other in terms that they all will understand.

3. Describe diagnostic, surgical, and common clinical procedures used to treat disease and injury. Physicians use medical terminology to describe their findings when reporting test results and in making a prognosis. One study found, however, that when doctors communicate information to patients in terms of medical rather than lay terms, patients are more likely to worry that they have a rare disease or are seriously ill (see Reference 2). The Canadian study funded by the National Science and Engineering Research Council suggests that how well a patient understands the diagnosis influences how much fear and anxiety that she may feel in response to the diagnosis, a factor crucial in making informed health decisions.

4. Distinguish among different types of drugs. Medical terminology is useful in defining drug classifications and identifying commonly used medications. Pharmacological terms used in medical vocabulary provide a resource for maintaining guidelines when it comes to prescribing care.

5. Submit medical insurance claim forms to insurers for payment. The concepts of medical billing rely on the accurate use of medical terminology for timely reimbursement of medical services rendered. Because medicine has a language all its own, having even a fundamental knowledge of medical terminology leads to a better understanding of the prefixes, suffixes, and root words that make up more complex medical terms. Whether submitting or processing medical claims, you must be familiar with the symbols, abbreviations and many acronyms common to medicine.

6. Transcribe medical reports, the official written record of medical information. Medical transcriptionists type the information from dictated recordings; therefore, they must be able to identify and correctly spell medical terms. Transcriptionists need a fluent understanding of medical terminology in order to use the terms in the proper context. Medical terminology is used when documenting patient history, consultations, discharge summaries, physical examinations, and operative reports.

Tags: abbreviations used, allied health, care professionals, documenting patient, each other, health care professionals

Radiology Vocational Schools

Radiology technicians work with X-Ray machines

Radiologic technology is a growing field, with growth of approximately 17 percent expected between the years 2008 and 2018, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Also, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that median annual income of radiologic technologists was $52,210 as of May 2008. To become a radiology technician you will first need an education in the field, which can take between a year and four years to complete, depending on the program.

Kaplan College

Kaplan College is a nationwide, multi-campus career institute that currently only offers a radiology program at its Las Vegas campus. Kaplan College's program includes training in skeletal anatomy, protection from harmful materials in the line of duty and medical devices such as X-ray machines, fluoroscopes and tomographs. The program equips students with clinical knowledge as well as the problem solving and communication skills they need to succeed in the field of radiology. Upon graduation, students at Kaplan College will receive an associate's degree.

Kaplan College

3535 West Sahara Avenue

Las Vegas, NV 89102

702-368-2338

las-vegas.kaplancollege.com

Concorde Career College

Concorde Career College has a number of locations throughout the United States, however they only offer a radiology program at their Aurora, Colorado location. Students at Concorde Career College pursue Associate in Applied Science degrees in radiologic technology. Concorde teaches its radiologic technology students anatomy, positioning, and radiology terminology. The program also teaches students take a patient's vital signs, perform CPR and do vital sign testing. Graduates of the program may sit for the American Registry of Radiologic Technology's professional certification exam, making them registered radiologic technologists.

Concorde Career College

111 Havana Street

Aurora, CO 80010

303-861-1151

concorde.edu

Colorado Technical University

Colorado Technical University offers a number of locations throughout the Midwest, but only offers a radiology program at its campus in North Kansas City. The program at Colorado Technical University allows for students to get hands-on clinical training in three fields of radiology: general radiography, surgical radiography and trauma radiography. CTU also offers the opportunity for students to become trained in CPR while learning radiology, enhancing their resumes with additional skills. Graduates earn an Associate of Applied Science degree.

Colorado Technical University

520 East 19th Avenue

North Kansas City, MO 64116

816-472-7400

coloradotech.edu

South College

North Carolina's South College in Asheville offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in radiologic technology. Students wishing to study radiology at South College must specifically apply to the program and the program does not accept all applicants. The program emphasizes professionalism, communication and problem solving in addition to basic radiology skills. Graduates of the program may sit for professional certification in radiology from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.

South College

29 Turtle Creek Drive

Asheville, NC 28803-3152

828-277-5521

southcollegenc.edu

Tags: Kaplan College, Career College, Colorado Technical, Colorado Technical University, Concorde Career, Concorde Career College

Breast Reduction Methods That Require No Surgery

For women with exceptionally large breasts, surgery can sometimes seem like the only option for a more average breast size. However, in addition to being costly, painful and difficult on the body, insurance often does not cover this procedure, making it out of reach for many women. There are several options to consider when surgery is not one of them.

Nutrition and Exercise

Breasts are made up of fatty tissue and can therefore be reduced by the weight loss that comes with exercise and proper diet. This is the only proven method of reducing breast size, and the amount of fat lost from breast tissue depends on the amount of weight lost overall. For most women, smaller breasts are the first sign of weight loss. You can also do some strength training to lift and define your breasts better, even as they get smaller from weight loss, through toning up the pectoral muscles. In fact, any muscle that helps to tone up the chest wall will contribute to higher and more defined breasts, even as the cup size is reduced through diet and exercise.

Minimizer Bra

While this does not officially reduce the size of your breasts, it makes them appear to be smaller than they really are. For women that want to look as though they have smaller breasts, even if they are taking other steps to reduce them, a minimizer bra is the best choice. Invest in a well-made bra, with plenty of support around the shoulders, back and cups. A solid minimizer bra will not only minimize the appearance of your breasts, but also lift them and provide relief and comfort to your shoulders and back. The strips should be fairly wide for optimal results and underwire styles generally work best for women with large breasts. In some instances, wearing a minimizer bra can reduce the appearance of your breasts by up to two inches, a fairly significant margin for changing to a different style of bra.

Herbal Supplements

There are herbal supplements that guarantee breast reduction, including pills like Alexia and Trima. Some women wear by them, and others say they don't work. However, after consulting with your doctor, give them a try. You can generally find them at a vitamin store or natural foods shop. Trying these supplements for yourself is the only way to determine if they are truly effective or not.

Tags: your breasts, weight loss, appearance your, appearance your breasts, breast size, breasts even, even they

What Is A Machine Transcriptionist

Machine Transcriptionist

There are several career choices which allow you to work from the home. Transcriptionists can operate from a home office, provided they have the correct equipment. Machine transcriptionists have added training in operating transcription equipment.

What Is It?

A machine transcriptionist is a career choice. It is a version of the traditional transcriptionist position. A transcriptionist listens to a conversation or directions, and writes them out in document form.

The Machines

Machine transcriptionists use technology to assist in their jobs. This can include a personal computer, headset and other recording devices.

Careers

Machine transcriptionists often work in the medical field. They also work for attorneys, corporations and government agencies.

Training

Machine transcriptionists are usually required to have an Associate's degree in order to work. Some companies will accept a candidate in the process of obtaining a degree, or a candidate with course history in machine transcription.

Skills

Machine transcriptionists must be technologically savvy. They must have computer-operating skills and word processing skills, and be able to multi-task. Machine transcriptionists must be able to proofread and edit their documents.

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Science Projects With Slinkies

Explore physics with Slinkies.

Although you may think of a Slinky as a toy, physics teachers use it as a go-to gadget to teach students the basics of forces and waves. If you are looking for a science project that involves a Slinky but don't know where to begin, here are some Slinky science projects to try out.

Centripetal Force Experiment

Use a Slinky to illustrate centripetal force. Stand still and hold the Slinky at one end. Twirl it around your head and body. Notice how the opposite end of the Slinky swings away from you. Experiment with the amount of energy needed to change the angle of the Slinky to the ground. You will need to rotate the Slinky faster in order to make it parallel to the ground.

Slinky Longitudinal Waves

Use a Slinky to visualize and understand how longitudinal waves, such as sound, move. Perform this experiment with a partner. Grasp one end of the Slinky while your partner grasps the other end, and then stretch the Slinky out between the two of you. Gather together several coils of the Slinky and release it. The gathered coils will press against one another and travel to the other end of the Slinky, rebound, and then travel back. This demonstrates how sound's longitudinal waves echo off of a solid surface.

Slinky Transverse Waves

Use a Slinky to illustrate how transverse waves work. Transverse waves (represented in nature as ocean waves) are waves that are comprised of particles that move in a direction that is perpendicular to the direction that the waves move. Grasp one end of a Slinky and have your partner grasp the other end. Stretch the Slinky horizontally across the floor. Pull a portion of the Slinky sideways about one foot, and then release the Slinky. The resulting wave will move perpendicular to the stretched Slinky.

Walking Slinky

Determine the angle needed to keep a Slinky walking down a slope with this simple experiment. Place a piece of plywood horizontally on a desk. Slowly increase the angle of the slope by slipping books or shims beneath one side of the plywood. Start the Slinky by placing both ends on the plywood and see if it "walks," i.e., continues to place one coiled end over the other, down the plywood. Test at ever increasing angles. Record the angle that allows the Slinky to walk down the plywood and discuss the physics that causes the Slinky to walk.

Tags: direction that, down plywood, Grasp Slinky, Slinky illustrate, Slinky walk, Waves Slinky

Low Cost Halloween Costume Ideas For Adults

Make a witch costume with a hat and cape.

Attending an adult Halloween party doesn't mean you have to spend a fortune shopping for a fancy costume to wear. You can put together costumes using what you already have or by purchasing inexpensive items. Shop for what you need to complete your costume at thrift or dollar stores.

Scarecrow

Transform yourself into a cute scarecrow for little or no money. Wear an over-sized flannel shirt and old blue jeans. If you don't already own an old over-sized flannel shirt and a pair of old blue jeans, shop at garage sales to find them cheap. Put the shirt and jeans on, then stuff them with plastic grocery bags or paper. Tie the waist of the pants using a rope or some bailing twine. Place some straw coming out of the shirt sleeves and pant legs. Tie some rope around the pant legs and sleeves to keep the straw from falling out. Paint your face, and you are ready to go.

Beauty Queen

Recycle those old bridesmaid, prom or other formal gowns that you have hanging in the closet and turn yourself into a beauty queen. If you do not have any formal wear that would work for this, visit a thrift store where you can usually pick one up inexpensively. Add some long white gloves, costume jewelry and a plastic tiara from a toy store. Find some matching heels to finish off the look. If you want to be Miss America, you could even add a sash, made from some ribbon, that says Miss America across it. Use glitter glue or puff paint to write "Miss America" across the sash.

Skunk

Find a pair of black sweat pants and a black sweatshirt. If you don't already have these, look for some at a discount or dollar store. Purchase some white fabric paint at a hobby shop. Paint a white stripe all the way down the back of the shirt and down the pants. Be aware that most fabric paints are permanent. Put the pants and shirt on to make yourself into a skunk. You could even take some black yarn and tie long pieces of it together to make a skunk tail. The tail can be hot glued or sewed onto the back of the pants.

Dice

A low cost couples costume idea is to make yourselves a pair of dice. Find two large boxes that can fit around each of you. Cut holes for your legs, arms and heads. You can then paint the boxes, let them dry and draw black or white dots on the sides. If you prefer, you can purchase felt to cover the boxes. Cover the entire boxes with your felt, minus the cut out hole. Cut out large circles of white or black felt and glue them onto the sides of each box.

Old Man or Woman

Dress up as an old man or old woman for a low cost Halloween costume. For an old man, put on a pair of dark colored pants that have cuffs at the bottom, with a dress shirt and jacket. Wear an old flannel hat and carry a cane. To dress as an old woman, find an old dress to wear along with some knee high stockings. Roll the stocking down a bit and wear a pair of old looking shoes. Carry a huge purse to complete the look. Purchase a can of gray hair paint and color your hair to make you look even older, for both costumes. Most of the items for the old man or old woman costume can be purchased cheap at thrift stores, if you do not already have them.

Static Clean

For a costume that is inexpensive and requires very little preparation, you could go as static clean. Just wear an outfit that you normally would wear any day. Use some safety pins to pin on some dryer sheets, hand towels, various socks, wash cloths or any other small clothing items to your shirt and pants. You might get some stares and will likely get asked more than once what you are, but your answer might amuse those asking.

Ghost

A low-cost Halloween costume is the traditional ghost. Take an old white bed sheet and cut out some holes for your eyes and a small slit for your mouth and you have a ghost costume. Jazz it up a bit for ladies and put makeup around the eyes and draw eyelashes. Put some blush on the cheeks and lipstick on the mouth. For men, you could skip the makeup and draw a beard or mustache on the face to dress it up.

Tags: already have, Miss America, yourself into, America across, blue jeans

What Is Medicare Part C & D

Medicare information is available in Spanish and English.

Medicare is health insurance provided to citizens of the Untied States by the federal government. In order to be eligible for Medicare, citizens must be 65 or older, disabled or diagnosed with an end-stage renal disease. There are four different Medicare plans. These plans are referred to as "parts" and are called Part A, Part B, Part C and Part D. Medicare plans have complex arrangements and often have tandem enrollment requirements.

Medicare Part C

Medicare Part C is known as Medicare Advantage. There are four types of Medicare Advantage plans, each of which is offered through a private third-party insurance company. Medicare approves all third-party companies offering Part C plans. Types of Advantage plans are: Health Maintenance Organization, Preferred Provider Organization, Private Fee-for-Service and Special Needs Plans. Advantage plans offer flexibility and elective coverage not provided by Medicare parts A and B, though they require a steeper monthly premium. In order to be enrolled in Medicare Part C, citizens must first enroll in parts A and B. Advantage plans offer options for visual, dental and health/wellness coverage that other plans do not.

Medicare Parts A and B

Medicare requires those who would enroll in Part C to first enroll in parts A and B. Part A is basic, free hospital insurance that covers inpatient care in hospitals and nursing facilities, hospice care and home health care. Part B covers doctors' services, outpatient care, home health services and other care deemed to be medically necessary. Citizens enrolled in Part B pay a standard monthly premium. Medicare parts A, B and C are designed to work in tandem such that parts A and B cover all basic and medically necessary services while Part C covers elective care and procedures.

Medicare Part D

Medicare Part D is prescription drug coverage. It is available to all recipients of Medicare plans and is offered at the time of enrollment. Those who decline Part D initially must pay a late enrollment fee in order to sign up for drug coverage at a later date. Part D cannot be obtained independent of other Medicare plans; in order to enroll in prescription drug coverage citizens must also be enrolled in Medicare Part A or B.

Medicare Parts C and D

Prescription drug coverage, or Medicare Part D, is included in most Medicare Advantage, or Part C, plans. There are two types of Part D plans. These types are Medicare Prescription Drug Plans and Medicare Advantage Plans. The former is designed as an addition to Part A, Part B and Private Fee-For-Service and Medical Savings Account plans. The latter is designed for addition to HMO and PPO Part C plans. Those enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans who opt for Part D coverage receive all Medicare options: Part A and Part B as prerequisites for Part C, Part C and prescription drug coverage under Part D.

Tags: Medicare Part, Part Part, drug coverage, Medicare Advantage, Medicare plans, Part Medicare

Cost & Benefits Of Computed Radiography

With Computed Radiography, images like these can be viewed digitally.

Computed Radiography (CR) systems use equipment similar to conventional radiography except that in place of an X-ray film, an imaging plate is used to create the digital image, which is then transferred to a computer. Although initial costs apply when upgrading a conventional X-ray system to a Computed Radiography system, in the long run Computed Radiography comes with enough benefits to make up for the initial costs.

Chemicals

X-ray films are no longer taken to a darkroom or an automatic film processor to be developed in chemical tanks. With Computed Radiography, the imaging plate is run through a special laser scanner to read the image and transferred digitally to the computer to appear on the screen. The digital image can then be viewed and be contrast- or color-enhanced for better visibility.

Using Computed Radiography eliminates the chemicals used for film development, saving on daily chemical costs. As these chemicals are also considered hazardous waste, Computed Radiography has a clear benefit on the environment over conventional film radiography.

Installation

With Computer Radiography, existing X-ray machines are still used, with only a change in the recording device. This eliminates the cost of setting up a whole new system.

Films

Although Computed Radiography imaging plates are more expensive than conventional X-ray films, these can be re-used, saving on film costs over time. Computed Radiography imaging plates can be re-used between 15,000 to 40,000 times, as opposed to X-ray films, which can only be used once.

Space

Computed Radiography eliminates the use of a darkroom altogether, as well as the physical space needed to store recorded images. Digital storage space is however needed for images, and as the images are quite big, the extra costs for hard-drive space need to be added to the budget of the facility.

Retakes

Conventional radiography is a manual procedure: the radiologist sets the exposure depending on the size of the patient. This occasionally results in an over- or under-exposure (a too dark or too light image). The radiologist would then have to retake the image, resulting in additional radiation to the patient. With Computed Radiography, minor exposure faults can be corrected digitally, saving time and the danger of excessive radiation exposure to the patient. In conventional radiography retakes would use more film, which is not the case in Computed Radiography, as the image plate is re-usable.

Time

As film-processing time is eliminated, Computed Radiography has the economic benefit over conventional radiography that a higher amount of patients can be scanned daily. Doctors now have immediate access over the digital image and can view it through the network on their computer screens.

Distribution

Conventional X-ray plates needed to be physically transported if a second opinion was needed. A doctor can now simply send the digital image to the specialist via a digital network connection. This eliminates transportation costs.

Medium

Computed Radiography enables health workers to reproduce images on mediums other than film. Digital images can be documented on CDs, printed on high-quality paper or simply viewed on a computer monitor. These are all cheaper options than conventional X-ray film.

Tags: Computed Radiography, digital image, Computed Radiography imaging, Radiography imaging, With Computed, With Computed Radiography

East Carolina University'S Special Education Programs

East Carolina University offers special education courses throughout North Carolina.

East Carolina University (ECU) in Greenville, North Carolina, offers several different options for students wanting to pursue becoming special education teachers. Students can attend class at the Greenville campus or, through the school's partnerships with community colleges throughout the state, obtain their general education requirements before taking upper-level special education courses online from ECU faculty members.

Undergraduate Program

At the undergraduate level, ECU offers a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Special Education. The B.S. degree requires the completion of 128 credit hours. Aside from the off-campus opportunities through North Carolina community colleges, ECU offers undergraduate students two options for study. First, a general curriculum track allows educators to work with special needs students pursuing secondary education through the general curriculum offered by the state of North Carolina. Second, students can pursue an adapted curriculum offered by the state which is specifically adapted to the individual needs of the students.

Master's Degree Program

At the graduate degree level, ECU offers a 39 credit hour Master of Education (M.A.Ed.) program that further qualifies students to meet the needs of special needs students. Students can pursue the degree program full-time but can also study part-time while working. Pursuing the program on a part-time basis normally takes about two years. Four areas of specialization can be pursued by ECU graduate students: learning disabilities, low-incidence disabilities, mental retardation and emotional and behavioral disabilities.

Certificate Programs

In addition to the special education degree programs, ECU also offers various certificate programs specifically designed for the special education professional. The first program allows students to receive state approved license to work with children considered to be academically gifted. This program is offered in conjunction with the elementary education division of the School of Education. A second graduate certificate is offered for those wishing to work with autistic students. This is a 12 credit hour program focused on communication, research, intervention and instruction of children with autism. The third certificate program offered by ECU in special education is in the area of assistive technology. Also a 12 credit hour program, the assistive technology certificate is offered in cooperation with the university's occupational therapy department.

East Carolina University

College of Education

154 Speight Building

Mail Stop 504

Greenville, NC 27858

252-328-4260

ecu.edu

Tags: Carolina University, East Carolina, East Carolina University, North Carolina, special education, credit hour

Small Business Health Options Program Act

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPAC) introduced the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) in 2008. The new PPAC provisions provided with the SHOP Act require states to create more affordable, accessible and predictable health care insurance options for small business owners and the self-employed. SHOP offers tax incentives to help states reform existing small group insurance policies by prohibiting ratings based on gender, health status ratings and claim histories. SHOP was signed into law in March 2010 and states are required to adhere to the new PPAC protocols by 2014.

Group Health Insurance

Regulated by the Department of Health and Human Services, SHOP will make it easier for small business owners to afford health insurance for their employees by offering them a list of private health insurance plans that are competing for business. Several small businesses can also team up to form a nationwide or statewide pool so they can spread the risk over a large number of insurance participants so health insurance premium rates lower. Business owners will receive an annual tax credit of $1,000 per employee, or $2,000 for family health coverage, if the employer pays for at least 60 percent of each employee's health care premium. Additionally, employers who pay more than 60 percent of employee premiums will receive an additional bonus tax credit.

More Affordable Premiums

Business owners will not face increased health insurance premiums through SHOP because the act will make it illegal for insurance companies to increase their premiums if an individual or employee has a preexisting condition or has made expensive insurance claims in the past. Additionally, business owners will find insurance premiums more predictable, stable and affordable, even if they employ older workers.

Health Care for Freelancers and the Self-Employed

Through SHOP, those who are self-employed, including freelancers, will be able to purchase health insurance from the same pool as small business owners so they no longer have to purchase private health insurance policies, which are often more costly. Additionally, SHOP will give those who are self-employed an annual tax credit of up to $1,800 for individual health insurance policies or $3,600 for family health policies.

More Choices

Employers and those who are self-employed will have the ability to visit SHOP's website, which will allow the professionals to compare several private health insurance plans at once. While SHOP allows for the possibility of new health plans to be offered all over the United States, state insurance commissioners will need to verify that new health plans conform to state requirements regarding network adequacy, the claims and appeal procedure and financial solvency.

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Insurance Policy Regulations

Insurance is among the most highly-regulated industries in America.

Even though at times it may seem that insurance companies can do whatever they please, insurance is actually one of the most heavily-regulated industries in America. Each state is responsible for its own insurance laws, and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) exists to help promote standards of regulation between states. By understanding different types of regulation, you can better understand the insurance industry and how it relates to you.

Insurance Rates

Every state is responsible for creating and enforcing laws that regulate the ways insurance companies set and charge premiums. Though the specific laws are different in each state, the general principle is the same everywhere. The California Department of Insurance, for example, must enforce California Insurance Code Section 1861.05 (a), which states that premium rates must not be excessive, inadequate or unfairly discriminatory. The premiums, therefore, must be large enough to cover losses but small enough to be affordable to the consumer.

Policy Filing

Each state is also responsible for approving insurance companies' policies before they are made available to the public for sale. This is done to protect consumers from unfair policy language. In some circumstances, however, a state's regulations may harm the customer and sometimes exemptions are made to this type of regulation. In Louisiana, for example, large commercial businesses often need customized policies that may not have been previously filed with the state. Waiting for state approval may cause a financial loss to the business. Accordingly, Louisiana insurance code Title 37, Part XIII, Chapter 90, Regulation 72 allows businesses of a certain size (criteria including over $200,000 annual premium) to accept insurance policies not previously approved by the state.

Health Insurance

States are responsible for setting the acceptable terms of health insurance policies. Some commonly- regulated areas of these contracts include pre-existing condition exclusions, ability to renew a policy after expiration and coverage for dependents. According to HealthInsuranceInDepth.com, New York has more health insurance regulations than most states, including mandatory renewals of insurance contracts upon request, 12-month limitations on pre-existing condition exclusions and 30 days of automatic coverage for newborns and newly-adopted children.

Tags: insurance companies, condition exclusions, Each state, health insurance, industries America, insurance policies, pre-existing condition

Attend A Free Movie Screening

Attend a Free Movie Screening

Before movies open in theaters, film studios often offer free screenings--especially in the Los Angeles area--to the public in order to gauge the response and maybe make some last-minute tweaks. If you know worm your way in, you can find yourself attending these free movies every month.

Instructions

1. Find out which movie theaters are frequented by people offering free screenings by attending evening and weekend shows. These are the most popular shows and are most likely to have passes. Focus on the larger multiplexes, which are also more likely to offer passes. For example, in the Los Angeles area, the AMC Burbank 16 in Burbank and the AMC Promenade 16 in Woodland Hills are two that frequently offer passes to free screenings.

2. Look for one or two people standing around the ticket lines holding a clipboard. Make eye contact and look approachable.

3. If the person does not approach you, you can try asking if he's giving away passes, but keep in mind that he may be looking for a specific demographic into which you might not fall.

4. If he offers, take the pass, which is usually an 8 ? x 11-inch sheet of paper that contains a summary of the movie and information about the free showing.

5. Pay attention to the age restrictions on the pass. There might be a specific age range (for example, 15 to 55) that the screeners are looking for.

6. RSVP that you going to attend by either emailing or calling the toll-free number on the pass. You will need to reference the ID number on the pass when you call or email.

7. Register on Nielsen's Movie View website to be notified of future free screenings.

8. Arrive 45 minutes before the show starts (usually 7:00 PM). If you arrive later than this, you might not get in.

9. Bring the pass with you.

10. Watch the movie. Try not to snore.

11. Complete the survey given to you after the movie finishes.

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What Blood Tests Need Fasting Preparation

Blood tests are done to check for pregnancy, diabetes, cholesterol and vitamin and mineral problems. Most blood tests do not need any preparation. For those that do, make sure the instructions given by the physician are clear. If there are any questions, be sure to get the answers before testing day.

Glucose Tolerance

The glucose tolerance test, also known as the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), will check how the body metabolizes blood sugar. People with untreated type 2 diabetes will have high blood glucose levels. During pregnancy, high blood glucose levels can signal gestational diabetes. Fasting for this blood test is done to get an accurate reading of blood sugar levels. Ask the physician about any medications being taken and whether they will interfere with test results.

Cholesterol Levels

This blood test is also called a coronary risk profile. The blood is analyzed to check the levels of triglycerides, low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, very low density lipoprotein (serum VLDL) cholesterol and total cholesterol values. Fasting before this test ensures the results are accurate.

Basic Metabolic Panel

The basic metabolic panel (BMP) blood test is usually ordered as part of a routine physical or to aid in diagnosing a specific medical problem. To get the most accurate results, fasting is a requirement. This test checks for glucose blood levels that could indicate diabetes or low blood sugar called hypoglycemia. Calcium is an important mineral in the body, and an imbalance could indicate problems in the kidneys, bones or pancreas.

It also measures the levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine, which are waste products and filtered out of the blood by the kidneys. High levels could indicate the kidneys are not functioning properly.

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel

A comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) is a blood test that can help diagnose liver disease, diabetes and kidney disease, as well as imbalances in protein and electrolyte levels. The difference between the basic and the comprehensive metabolic panels is two extra tests are done. One checks liver function by measuring albumin, a major protein in the blood produced by the liver, and total blood protein. The other measures alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and bilirubin. High levels of any of these could indicate the liver is not functioning correctly.

Significance

Follow instructions given by the physician or lab where the blood tests will be done. If there was a problem following the instructions, notify the technician who is to take the blood immediately.

Tags: blood test, could indicate, blood sugar, density lipoprotein, blood glucose, blood glucose levels

Recognize Symptoms Of Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is a serious condition that affects thousands of women each year. Fortunately, there are ways to beat cervical cancer and live a long, healthy life. It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the symptoms and seek medical attention at the first sign of cancer.

Instructions

1. Have abnormal Pap results. In many instances, cervical cancer doesn’t cause physical symptoms in the early stages. It’s important for every woman to schedule an annual Pap test, which examines the cervix for pre-cancerous cells.

2. Notice unusual vaginal discharge. It’s common to have some vaginal discharge. However, it’s important to make a distinction between normal and unusual discharge. Abnormal discharge is excessive and is typically accompanied by a strong odor.

3. Experience excessive or abnormal bleeding. Bleeding that occurs between menstrual cycles or after menopause should be investigated by a gynecologist. In addition, any bleeding that persists for longer than ten days or bleeding that takes place after intercourse is a sign of cervical cancer.

4. Feel abdominal pain or pressure. One sign of cervical cancer is abdominal discomfort that may include pain and bloating. Because these symptoms are similar to other conditions, such as premenstrual syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, ovarian cysts and bladder infection, they are often ignored. Look into abdominal pain that lasts for longer than one week.

5. Endure painful intercourse. Cervical cancer isn’t the only condition that causes painful intercourse. Other conditions include vaginismus and endometriosis. However, if discomfort begins suddenly or intensifies with each sexual encounter, cervical cancer may be the reason.

Tags: cervical cancer, abdominal pain, bleeding that, condition that, longer than

Defibrillator Precautions

Defibrillation administers an electric shock through the chest wall to the heart of a sudden cardiac-arrest victim. The American Heart Association (AHA) reports that, although there are no statistics available on the exact number of cardiac arrests that occur each year, it is estimated that more than 95 percent of victims die before reaching the hospital. AHA also reports that when defibrillation is provided within five to seven minutes, the survival rate can be as high as 30 to 45 percent. While this is a life-saving practice, there are precautions which should be followed.

Purpose

Defibrillation is performed to correct life-threatening arrhythmias of the heart including ventricular fibrillation and cardiac arrest. To be effective, this procedure should be performed immediately after a patient experiences an irregular or deficient rhythm of the heart, which may be indicated by lack of pulse and response. The defibrillator resets the electrical activity of the heart allowing it to regain control of the rhythm.

Pulse/Paddles

Defibrillation should not be performed on anyone who has a pulse or is alert. This could result in a fatal heart rhythm disorder or cardiac arrest. Defib paddles should not be placed directly on a victim's chest or over an internal pacemaker. Proper placement should be on the patient's lower left and upper right sides or lower right and upper left sides of the chest.

Water

Since moisture can make certain parts of the chest less resilient and the defibrillation not as effective, the patient's chest should be completely dry. If in a pool area or outside in wet weather, the patient should be taken to a safe shelter and the chest dried before proceeding with defib. Alcohol should not be used to dry the chest because of its high flammability.

Visual Check

The patient's chest needs to be free of nitroglycerine patches or any other medical patches or materials that may cause explosion when in contact with the defibrillator. The victim should not be lying on a conductive surface such as metal bleachers or sheet metal that may transmit shock to individuals in close proximity. Defibrillation should never taken place if close to flammable supplies such as gasoline or open oxygen.

Touching the Patient

No one should touch the patient during defibrillation since this could result in someone receiving an electrical shock. Also, coming in contact with the individual while the defibrillator performs its analysis will result in inaccurate readings and prompts from the machine.

Cell Phones/Portable Radios

All cell phones and portable radios should be kept at least six feet from the patient and the defibrillator. These devices may also influence the machine's analysis resulting in inaccurate results and prompts.

Tags: cardiac arrest, contact with, could result, Defibrillation should, patient chest, reports that, should performed

Types Of Radiography

Radiography is a type of diagnostic medical imaging. The different modalities are used to visualize almost the entire body in an effort to diagnose disease processes. Because different tissues react differently to each imaging modality, a specific modality may be better suited for the diagnosis of a specific disease, or a combination of exams may be necessary.

X-Ray

X-rays, or radiographs, have many uses. They are ideal for imaging the bones in search of breaks. A bone survey is a series of x-rays taken to determine whether cancer has metastasized to the bones. KUB is an x-ray of the kidneys, ureters and bladder. It is used in conjunction with contrast to search for stones and other blockages. Chest x-rays are ideal for evaluating the lungs for the presence of pneumonia.

Fluoroscopy

Fluoroscopy is x-ray using real-time imaging. It can be used in conjunction with barium contrast to find gastrointestinal abnormalities such as bowel intussusception. Intravenous contrast can be used to visualize venous or arterial stenosis. Fluoroscopy is the preferred imaging modality by some radiologists for surgical procedures. Medical equipment, such as guide wires, can be easily seen and properly placed using fluoroscopy.

Computed Tomography

Computed tomography (CT) uses special x-ray equipment. Special computer software is used to process the images. They can be manipulated for enhanced visualization and varied orientation. CT scans can also be used to produce three-dimensional reconstructions that are helpful in the diagnosis of certain pathologies. While computed tomography uses x-rays, it produces much more detailed imaging than radiographs.

Nuclear Medicine

Nuclear medicine uses radiation differently than the other imaging modalities. Radioactive substances are injected into the patient and allowed to function within the body. A special camera is used to acquire images of the radiation given off by these substances. This process allows the physician to assess whether an organ is properly functioning. Nuclear medicine is the only radiographic imaging modality that can examine how well an organ functions.

Other Imaging Modalities

Radiographic exams may be complimented with ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Because injuries and disease processes may affect several types of tissue, two imaging modalities may be required. For example, an x-ray may be taken of an injured arm to search for a fracture. If a tendon or ligament tear is suspected in addition to the break, MRI will also be used. CT is used to assess abdominal pain and can be used to find masses in the liver and gallstones in the gallbladder. Ultrasound is done in addition to the CT to evaluate the common bile duct, which may also have stones.

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Regain Breast Tissue After Menopause

Regain Breast Tissue After Menopause

Many women become self-conscious about the size of their breasts after menopause. As estrogen decreases, the amount of breast tissue decreases as well. Many women accept decreased breast tissue as a reality of life after menopause. However, for some women, having a decreased amount of breast tissue is unsettling. For women who are especially concerned with the amount of breast tissue they have, a variety of treatments and therapies are available to increase the amount of breast tissue after menopause.

Instructions

1. Speak with your physician about hormone replacement therapy (HRT). With HRT, synthetic hormones are administered to replace some of the hormones that your body no longer manufactures because of having undergone menopause. HRT can restore hormonal levels closer to what they were prior to menopause, thereby increasing breast tissue.

2. Strengthen your pectoral muscles. Strengthening your pectoral muscles will increase their size. Though this will not lead to increased breast tissue, it will lead to the simulation of increased breast tissue because the muscle under the breast tissue will have grown. Push-ups, dips, and bench press exercises are some examples of exercises that work the pectoral muscles.

3. Gain weight if you are underweight. Breast tissue is mostly fatty tissue, so being underweight after menopause will exacerbate the loss of breast tissue. If you are underweight, gain weight by eating more calories than you burn. You can calculate the number of calories that you burn in a day by adding the amount of calories that you burn through exercise to your basal metabolic rate (BMR). You can manually calculate for BMR or use a calculator. (See Resources.) Ensure that any extra food you do eat consists of extra portions of healthful, nutritious food, as opposed to empty calories.

Tags: breast tissue, amount breast, amount breast tissue, breast tissue, pectoral muscles, after menopause

What Is A Bad Pap Smear

What is a bad Pap smear?

A "bad," or abnormal, Pap smear means that the results of your pelvic exam indicated a problem. While this can mean that cervical cancer has been detected, that is not always the case.

"Bad" results

Pap smear results that are not normal are generally classified by the Bethesda System 2001. This classification system rates pap smear results as normal, which means nothing unusual was found, or unsatisfactory, benign, atypical, low-grade changes or high-grade changes, all of which indicate unusual circumstances. The Bethesda System will also identify cancerous results.

Unsatisfactory

An "unsatisfactory" pap smear means that not enough cervical cells were gathered or that the sample was compromised.

Benign

A "benign" pap smear means that abnormal, noncancerous cells were found, These usually are the result of vaginal infection or irritation.

Atypical

"Atypical cells of uncertain significance" indicates that abnormal cells were found, but that further testing is needed to determine the reason for these cells.

Low-Grade Changes/High-Grade Changes

"Low-grade changes" is a result frequently associated with HPV infection, which has been linked to cervical cancer. This may sometimes be followed up by testing for high-risk HPV infection. "High-grade changes" often indicates unusual cells associated with cancer.

Sqamous Cell Carcinoma or Adenocarcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma results mean that one of these types of cancer are present.

Tags: cells were, means that, smear means, smear means that, associated with, Bethesda System, cells were found

What Are Employee Health Insurance Laws

Health insurance is one of the most expensive benefits offered by many employers. If you're an employee, there are certain procedures your employer must follow so you have the benefit of signing up for their group health insurance. The purpose of health insurance laws is to make certain that all employees receive fair treatment and an opportunity to participate in the company's plan. Most companies that offer insurance do it to help employees and keep a good workforce.

Discrimination

If your employer cuts back on your benefits because you're older or there's a chance you'll cost him more money due to a disability, that's discrimination and against federal law. Your employer must treat all employees equally when it comes to group health insurance. If your benefits are cut, but so is everyone else's, there's no discrimination.

Pre-existing Conditions

HIPAA, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), guarantees that if you maintain health coverage between group insurance plans, you aren't subject to the pre-existing conditions clause of the policy. If your coverage lapses for less than 63 days, the law states it's continuous. The longest you must wait for coverage of pre-existing conditions is 12 months, but some state laws make the wait shorter.

Premiums

Not all states require that your employer pay part of the insurance premium, but some of them do. Generally, insurance companies require employers to pay a portion, particularly if it's the state law. If you suspect your employer isn't paying his share, ask how much of the total premium you will pay if you leave the company and sign up for COBRA coverage. If you pay the same amount as the COBRA premium, it's an indication that your employer isn't contributing.

Notification

You must receive notices about the company health insurance plan; the time to sign up and changes in the plan. If you're new to the job, the information should be in a new employee packet or on the company's human resources website.

COBRA

COBRA, the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985, guarantees your right to continue your group health insurance for 18 months, or longer in special circumstances, after you terminate employment. You aren't required to carry it, but the employer must make it available. This includes sending you notice about the plan continuation.

No Plan

Some state laws require that employers with 11 or more employees offer health insurance. Check with your state insurance department to see if that's the law in your state. If a group policy isn't offered in these states, the employer is subject to a fine and is required to implement a plan.

No Maternity?

The required inclusion of maternity coverage varies from state to state. Some states only require the employer add maternity coverage if they have a specific number of employees, such as 10. Check your state's insurance law to see what's required.

Tags: your employer, health insurance, employer must, group health, group health insurance, that your

Where To Obtain Educational Materials That Can Be Used In A Health Fair

Most health fairs offer educational handouts that the attendees can take away with them. A wealth of brochures, booklets and tip sheets are available on health and wellness topics and disease prevention. Materials can be found in English and Spanish and are written for adults and children of all reading levels.

Government Agencies

The U.S. government offers consumer health educational materials available in bulk or for printing directly from its websites for duplication. Materials are often available in English and Spanish and for adults and children.

The National Cancer Institute, www.cancer.gov or 800-422--6237, provides free publications on topics including smoking cessation, cancer and cancer prevention materials.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's website at www.mypyramid.gov promotes healthy food selections. Materials, which can be printed for free or ordered for a fee, include tip sheets, posters, and worksheets.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov/Publications/ offers educational materials on chronic diseases, smoking cessation and vaccinations among other topics.

The National Institutes of Health, at www.nihpublications.od.nih.gov or 301-496-4143, provides brochures and fact sheets on topics such as Alzheimer's, heart health, asthma and dental care.

Health Care Associations

Several non-governmental national health care associations are dedicated to disease prevention, education, and research. Consumer health education materials are available and promoted for use at health fairs.

The American Heart Association's website at www.americanheart.org offers printable patient information sheets on heart and stroke conditions, symptoms and warning signs, and prevention such as healthy recipes and weight management.

The American Cancer Society, www.cancer.org or 800-227-2345, has free materials available in English and Spanish on cancer risk, prevention, and treatment.

The American Diabetes Association, at www.diabetes.org or 800-342-2383, has education information on diabetes for purchase. The association may also be able to provide a community resource person to attend a health fair.

Health Education Publishers

Private health publishers specialize in the production of consumer health education materials. Their writers, researchers and editors produce the most current health content available today. Although their health education materials are available for a fee and a contract may be required, health fair planners can expect a high level of customer service, variety of shipping options, and larger selection of quality produced materials. Quantity discounts may be available. The publishers include Healthwise at www.healthwise.org, Krames Patient Education at www.krames.com and Channing Bete at www.channing-bete.com.

Tags: materials available, education materials, English Spanish, health education, health education materials, adults children, available English

Plan For A School Health Fair

School health fairs feature a variety of activities related to health and health care.

School health fairs are events in which a variety of vendors and exhibitors set up booths to offer products and activities related to personal health and health care. Students, faculty members are often students' families are invited to attend. Displays typically focus on topics such as nutrition, first aid, dental care, cardiovascular health, physical fitness, fire prevention and the dangers of tobacco and illegal drugs. A comprehensive planning stage can assist in ensuring that a school health fair is successful.

Instructions

1. Select a planning committee of six to eight people and appoint a chair or co-chair to lead the committee. The committee should consist of people from a variety of fields including education, medicine and medical services. Allow six months to a year of planning leading to the school health fair.

2. Secure a firm date and location for the health fair and devise a theme for the event that reflects the message you want to establish. A school health fair might take place in an on-campus athletic facility, convention space or multipurpose room. "Spring into Health" or "Knock Out Cancer' are examples of themes.

3. Recruit a strong and varied selection of vendors and exhibitors to participate in the health fair. Include a mix of health-care and medical professionals, law enforcement and fire personnel, health and fitness clubs and representatives of local, state or national health organizations. Because it is a school health fair, make sure all of the participants are aware that the primary audience is students so they can plan their displays accordingly.

4. Publicize the health fair. Inform students, parents, faculty and community members of the date and theme of the event. Write press releases for local media outlets. Create fliers and posters and display them throughout the school and community. Place brief announcements about the health fair in local church bulletins.

5. Set up the tables, tablecloths, chairs and equipment that will be used at the health fair. Include a registration table with sign-in sheets, pens and pencils. Make sure electrical cords and outlets are available for exhibitors who need them. Displays at a school health fair can include a bicycle-safety rodeo, a hand-washing experiment that demonstrates how germs are killed, and booths dispensing information on topics such as fire safety, poison control and the dangers of skin cancer.

Tags: health fair, school health, school health fair, activities related, health care, health fair Include, health fairs

What Is An Urgent Care Center

Urgent care physicians can treat conditions like strep throat.

If you become ill or sustain an injury that requires stitches, you can drive to your nearest urgent care center to receive immediate medical attention.

Significance

Many urgent care centers are open 24 hours, 365 days a year, so you can visit one after regular business hours, on holidays, and on weekends. Urgent care centers are equipped to deal with acute medical conditions and can treat patients of any age.

Procedure

You may need to wait to see a physician at an urgent care center, depending on how severe your condition is compared to the patients ahead of you. Your urgent care physician will treat your conditions, and may ask you to schedule a follow-up visit with your regular doctor. You need to pay the co-pay amount determined by your insurance company directly to the urgent care center.

Considerations

Urgent care centers normally have limited diagnostic tools on site, such as X-ray machines, and generally do not have the ability to analyze blood work. If you have a serious medical condition, your urgent care center may arrange for a direct ambulance transfer to the nearest hospital emergency room.

Tags: urgent care center, care center, care centers, urgent care, urgent care, Urgent care

What Is An Organizational Flow Chart

What Is an Organizational Flow Chart?

An organizational flow chart is something a business creates, in the form of a diagram to illustrate how the company's personnel are structured.

Purpose

These flow charts are used to understand how employees fit into the work process. They also help understand the flow of information and help employees understand where they fit in the scheme of things. They are also used to find potential problems and make changes accordingly to promote improved performance in the organization.

Description

An organizational flow chart is diagrammed using either a horizontal or vertical tree that represents each job in the organization. It shows the relationships between job positions and illustrates the structure of all the jobs by rank. A typical organizational flow chart looks similar to a pyramid.

Details

These flow charts are typically set up in hierarchical order with the highest employee at the top of the chart,; which is generally the president or chief executive officer. From there, the next employees in rank are listed, and so on. Each employee is listed in a rectangle box and lines are drawn connecting the employees.

Tags: flow chart, flow charts, Organizational Flow, organizational flow, organizational flow chart, These flow

Ovarian Cysts Symptoms

Ovarian cysts are a common ailment among women of all reproductive ages. There are several types of ovarian cysts, but the most common form when follicles remain closed during ovulation rather than releasing the eggs they harbor. The majority of ovarian cysts are benign, fluid-filled sacs, but some can be cancerous. Certain symptoms can indicate the presence of an ovarian cyst.

Pain

Ovarian cysts often cause random pain in the pelvic and/or lower-back region. Menstrual periods, intercourse and bowel movements can exacerbate the pain.

Bloat/Size

Women with ovarian cysts often experience a feeling of abdominal fullness. They also report actual abdominal distention as the cyst grows in size.

Irregular Menstruation

Ovarian cysts can cause late, irregular or missed periods. They can also cause heavier than usual bleeding during menstruation and/or bleeding between periods.

Considerations

In many cases, ovarian cysts don't cause any symptoms at all. Having regular pelvic examinations is the best method for early detection.

Infertility

According to Mayo Clinic internist Dr. Sandhya Pruthi, ovarian cysts caused by

endometriosis (tissue growing outside the uterus) and polycystic ovary syndrome (marked by several small ovarian cysts) can cause infertility.

Tags: cysts cause, cysts often, ovarian cysts, ovarian cysts, They also

Benign Chest Wall Pain Symptoms

Chest wall pain can be a scary experience, but it may not always be serious. Pain in the wall of the chest that is not caused by other organs, such as the heart, is known as benign chest wall pain. Physical activity and stress can sometimes be the cause of benign chest wall pain.

Symptoms

Benign chest wall pain is associated with symptoms such as sudden sharp pains in the chest that show up shortly after performing strenuous activity, pain that passes within a few minutes to an hour and pain that can be pinpointed to a specific location. In most cases, young people who experience chest pain symptoms end up being diagnosed with benign chest wall pain.

Causes

Chest wall pain, or transitory chest wall pain, "is thought to be related to a momentary irritation of the pleura, a membrane that covers the lung and lines the chest wall," according to www.yourtotalhealth.com.

Strenuous activity and "breathing incorrectly, such as breathing too fast, or overusing the chest muscles to breathe" can also cause benign chest wall pain, according to Sheffield Teaching Hospitals. A panic attack may also lead to chest pain, "most likely caused by muscle contractions in the chest wall," according to the Mayo Clinic.

Misconceptions

In most cases of benign chest wall pain, people will lessen the amount of activity they do becasue they think this will make the pain worse. Decreasing activity can actually increase your chances of experiencing benign chest wall pain. "Physical activity can keep you healthy, and most people feel generally better when they are fit," according to Sheffield Teaching Hospitals.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask you about your medical history and run tests to rule out serious causes of chest pain such as heart disease and heart attack. A thorough examination with no conclusive evidence of any heart and organ problems is often diagnosed as benign chest wall pain.

Treatment

Benign chest wall pain typically goes away on its own without the use of medication. Medication, such as Tylenol or ibuprofen, may be used to reduce the pain. If pain is severe or is accompanied by nausea, weakness, fatigue or lightheadedness, consult your physician immediately.

Tags: chest wall pain, wall pain, chest wall, wall pain, benign chest, benign chest wall, chest pain

California State Colleges And Junior Colleges

The California Community Colleges System is one of the three education systems that make up the California public higher education system. With 112 campuses and 2.9 million students, California Community Colleges System is the largest higher education system in the world. Each year, colleges of the community college system graduate thousands of students in all areas of vocational studies, including nursing, education, criminal justice, mechanics and construction.

City College of San Francisco

City College of San Francisco is a two-year community college. It is the largest community college in California, with over 100,000 enrolled students and a faculty of over 1,000 instructors. Academic disciplines offered by the college include business, cinema, nursing, women's studies, photography and more. City College of San Francisco also has a distance learning program, in which students can earn a degree through online classes, hybrid courses or telecourses.

Barstow Community College

Barstow Community College has been educating California residents since 1959. The school has an academic faculty of approximately 100 instructors and a student body of 5,000. The college is distinguished as operating the largest online program among the California Community Colleges System, with programs concentrating in business, biology, English and child development. Traditional campus degrees include associate degrees in humanities, social science, natural science and physical education.

Orange Coast College

Orange Coast College is a two-year college in Costa Mesa. Two theme parks are located within 30 minutes of the college, Disneyland and Knott's Berry Farm. Admission to the school is managed through open enrollment and the student body is comprised of more than 25,000 students. Orange Coast College offers associate degree programs in accounting, computer information systems, agriculture, construction and child development. The college operates an on-site child development center.

College of the Redwoods

College of the Redwoods is a two-year community college located in Eureka, California. As its name suggest, the college is situated in the coastal forest of Humboldt Hill. Coast Redwood trees provide a natural contrast to the modern school buildings that make up the college campus. The school employs approximately 100 full-time instructors and has a student body of about 6,700 students. In addition to its main campus in Eureka, College of the Redwoods also operates two satellite campuses in Crescent City, California and Fort Bragg, California. Each year, the college awards associate degrees and certificates in journalism, history, languages, drama, political science and more.

Tags: community college, California Community, California Community Colleges, child development, City College, City College Francisco

Kansas Divorce Laws

Each state has its own body of law governing divorce and matters of children that are affected by divorce. If you plan to file for divorce in Kansas, first know the basics about residency requirements for filing a petition for divorce, how Kansas courts divide community property and award spousal maintenance, and how child custody is determined in this state.

Residency and Filing Requirements

To get a divorce in Kansas, either the spouse filing for divorce--the petitioner--or the respondent spouse must have lived in the state for at least 60 days. This residency requirement also applies to military personnel who are stationed in Kansas. The essential document needed to initiate a divorce proceeding is the petition for divorce, which is filed in the county where the petitioner resides. However, numerous documents may also be filed during the course of a divorce in Kansas and may include a verification for the petition, marital settlement agreement and declaration under the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act.

Grounds for Divorce in Kansas

Kansas is a "no fault" state, which means that a petitioning spouse can claim grounds of incompatibility--the couple simply can't get along. But Kansas law also permits lawful grounds for divorce based on "fault" of one of the spouses. These included failure to perform a material marital duty or obligation or incompatibility by reason of mental illness. If claiming the latter, one of the spouses must have been institutionalized for a mental illness for at least two years or deemed mentally incompetent by a court during a period of institutionalization.

Division of Community Property

Courts in Kansas distribute community property equitably--in a manner deemed fair, rather than equal. Divorcing spouses are encouraged to come to an accord on how the marital estate will be divided before they go to court, but if they cannot agree, the court will divide the property for them. In doing so, the court will consider many factors, some of which include the length of the marriage, the spouses' age and health, their present and future earning potential, if spousal support will be awarded to one of the divorcing parties and any other factors the court finds relevant.

Spousal Maintenance

A court may award either spouse temporary maintenance in a manner it deems "fair, just and equitable." Spousal maintenance in Kansas does not extend past 121 months. Spousal maintenance can be paid to the obligee in a lump sum or through periodic payments based on the obligor's earnings.

Child Custody

When it comes to custody matters, Kansas courts will always do what's in the best interest of the child. Divorcing parents are encouraged to come to an accord and submit a parenting plan outlining their respective custodial duties, but if they cannot agree, the court will make a custody determination for them. When determining custody, the court considers many factors. Some of these include the child's wishes, interaction between the child and her parents and siblings, how long the child has been under the actual care of a person other than the parents, evidence of spousal abuse and the willingness of each parent to encourage a relationship with the other. While some states rely on the "Tender Years Doctrine," which presupposes that a child is better off with her mother, Kansas law makes no presumption that a young child or infant is better off with a parent of a specific gender.

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The Most Important Vitamins That Women Over Fifty Need

Vitamins for women over 50.

Women over the age of 50 have special nutritional needs that differ from when they were younger. You can meet many of these needs by taking vitamin supplements. Specific vitamin supplements for women over the age of 50 will keep you feeling young, vibrant and enjoying a full life.

Multivitamins

Food is not the same as it once was. Even if you are a healthy eater, you probably do not get 100 percent of all your needed nutrition everyday. Take a multivitamin supplement to help combat this. You can either choose from a whole food supplement or a synthetic supplement. Both provide the nutrients needed to compliment your nutrition needs. If you are over 50 and you are still menstruating, take a multivitamin with iron. If you are no longer menstruating, you do not need the iron unless you are anemic.

Vitamin D

Without the proper amount of vitamin D, a woman over the age of 50 is susceptible to diseases such as heart attacks, Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's. Dr. Tanya Edwards of the Cleveland Clinic Center for Integrative Medicine recommends taking 1000 to 2000 units of vitamin D supplements per day.

Fish Oil

Fish oil is an omega 3, one of two fatty acids that a woman's body needs to stay healthy. The other fatty acid is omega 6. Our bodies get omega 6 from vegetable oil and corn oil. Without the proper balance of omega 3 and omega 6, you end up with inflammation. According to Dr. Edwards, inflammation is the leading cause of most diseases that we suffer from today.

Magnesium

Magnesium is beneficial for fighting migraines, fatigue, constipation and high blood pressure. Sometimes magnesium is available in a multivitamin, but if not, a 500 mg supplement is the recommended daily dose. Dr. Edwards suggests taking the magnesium supplements at night because they will help you sleep.

Calcium

500 milligrams of calcium taken twice a day is the recommended daily requirement for women over the age of 50. Your body needs about 1,000 milligrams, but it can only absorb 500 milligrams at a time.

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What Husbands Should Know About Menopause

What Husbands Should Know About Menopause

People consider menopause a women's health issue. However, when a woman is going through menopause, it affects everyone close to her. If a woman's husband knows more about this "change of life," he will be better prepared to support her. This knowledge will help him endure this sometimes-tumultuous period, as well.

Significance

As a woman ages and the childbearing stage of life elapses, the amount of estrogen produced by her ovaries decreases. This causes an irregular menstrual cycle. Eventually, her periods will cease completely. This process is the onset of menopause. Some women's bodies transition smoothly through menopause while others undergo severe difficulties. Most women, though, fall somewhere in between. Husbands should educate themselves and be prepared to help their wives through this potentially challenging time.

Time Frame

When a woman has not had a period for 12 consecutive months and does not have any other physical factors (such as pregnancy or illness), she is in menopause. This generally occurs in a woman's 50s. However, menopause can take place anytime between 30 and 60. During this time, talk to your wife about what, if any, effects she is feeling. Ask what you can do to make it easier. Show support by doing things such as helping more around the house and attending doctor's visits with her.

Features

Menopause can have several symptoms, although every woman's experience is different. Hot flashes, which are a sudden feeling of heat, and sometimes facial, neck and chest flushing, are common side effects. Hot flashes while a woman is sleeping cause night sweats, making rest hard to come by. You can help your wife by keeping a fan on and dressing warmer at night. If you snore, this is an ideal time to find a solution to it. (This could help you, also, if you have dangerous apnea.)

Effects

Because of the natural decrease in estrogen, a menopausal woman may experience vaginal dryness and discomfort. This can make sexual contact uncomfortable and even painful for her. A husband should be patient with his wife during this time. Tell her that she is still attractive often, and show affection in non-sexual ways. Increased foreplay as well as personal lubricants can help significantly, but do not pressure her for sex. Encourage her to talk to her doctor about irritation or tenderness she is experiencing

Considerations

The best things a husband can do when his wife is in menopause are be tolerant, be understanding, be loving and be supportive. Your wife may undergo mood swings and feel tremendously fatigued. There might be times you will wonder what happened to your sweet partner. Just remember that she is likely feeling that way about herself, too. Don't take any rants personally. Take time to remind yourself, and her, of all of the things you love about her, and that you made a promise to stand by her. Before you know it, you will have survived menopause together.

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