About High Risk Insurance

High-risk insurance is a type of coverage available to individuals who may not qualify for standard insurance policies due to pre-existing medical conditions or because of their lifestyle, profession or history of injury. Homeowners who live in flood zones may also be required to take out a different form of high-risk insurance, either in addition to or in lieu of a standard policy. High-risk insurance premiums are generally more expensive, but they may be the only available option to those in high-risk categories.

Significance

According to the National Coalition on Health Care, nearly 47 million Americans do not have health insurance. Many of these individuals are uninsured because they cannot qualify for standard insurance policies. Many more will be given high-risk status in the future due to advanced disease caused by delayed treatment, a direct result of being uninsured. High-risk drivers need coverage to get to and from work. Every day, home and business owners risk their belongings and property to fire and flood because they are in a floodplain or other high-risk area. However, the expense of losing a home or business is significantly higher than the cost of paying for high-risk coverage.

High-risk insurance coverage is essential, especially during times of economic instability. Insurance providers are becoming increasingly aware of this need and are providing high-risk individuals with the protection they need to tend to their daily obligations and avoid financial crisis.

Types

High-risk insurance is available as an alternative to nearly every type of traditional policy. High-risk medical coverage is available for those who cannot qualify for standard coverage as a result of a cancer diagnosis or pre-existing conditions, such as diabetes, alcoholism or hypertension. Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, smokers and those with certain genetic disorders who do not normally qualify for life insurance may be eligible for high-risk life insurance policies. Homeowners who reside in flood zones or fire zones have the option of taking out high-risk home and contents coverage, and drivers with a history of DUI or multiple accidents can opt to pay high-risk premiums in order to continue driving. Some individuals considered high risk due to their profession or lifestyle--such as professional athletes, actors, scuba divers and pilots--may be required to take out high-risk employment coverage to continue working.

Misconceptions

Unfortunately, many people who fall under high-risk insurance categories erroneously believe they will not qualify for any level of insurance coverage. Two groups of high-risk individuals--homeowners who live in a floodplain and those with serious pre-existing medical conditions--are most often affected by this common misconception. The truth is that high-risk insurance is available, but it may be expensive. Some medical insurance providers specialize in insuring individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, including cancer, and homeowners, renters, and business owners are eligible for flood insurance regardless of their mortgage status or location, provided the home or business is located in a National Flood Insurance Program community.

Benefits

The increasing availability of high-risk insurance means individuals no longer have to seek government assistance for medical care or leave their homes and belongings vulnerable to fire and water damage. High-risk insurance makes it possible for nearly everyone to obtain coverage. Moreover, now that this type of insurance is well established in the industry, insurers are forced to price high-risk policies competitively. This means lower premiums and better coverage for high-risk individuals who are willing to shop around before taking out a policy.

Considerations

High-risk insurance can be expensive, but most high-risk individuals can reduce their risk status, regardless of current health or circumstances. Those with medical conditions such as hypertension and diabetes can work with their doctors to improve their overall health and reduce their high-risk status. Drivers who are currently ineligible for standard coverage may be able to qualify after completing driver safety classes, remaining free of accidents and citations for a specific period of time, or by driving a less expensive or safer vehicle. Homeowners can reduce their risk status by installing alarms and other safety devices. High-risk status should be reassessed periodically to determine if high-risk insurance is still necessary.

Tags: High-risk insurance, medical conditions, pre-existing medical, high-risk individuals, high-risk insurance, home business

Panasonic Rf 2200 Vs Panasonic Rf 5000

Prior to the advent of portable cassette, CD and MP3 players, shortwave radios -- like the ones produced by Japan-based Panasonic Corp. -- were among the most popular portable audio devices. Shortwave radios, as their name implies, receive radio waves with short wavelengths -- less than 100 m or about 328 feet. Two Panasonic shortwave radio models include the now-discontinued RF-2200 and RF-5000. You can purchase these radios on the second-hand market, such as from online auction sites.

Reception

The Panasonic RF-2200 can receive shortwave signals with the following six frequency ranges, or bands: 0.525 to 16.1 MHz, 3.9 to 8 MHz, 8 to 12 MHz, 12 to 16 MHz, 20 to 24 MHz and 24 to 28 MHz. In comparison, the Panasonic RF-5000 can receive shortwave signals with eight frequency bands, allowing the RF-5000 to be compatible with lower and higher shortwave frequencies in comparison to the RF-2200. Specifically, the RF-5000 can use the following frequency bands: 1.6 to 4.5 MHz, 4.5 to 6.5 MHz, 6.5 to 9 MHz, 9 to 12 MHz, 12 to 16 MHz, 16 to 20 MHz, 20 to 25 MHz and 25 to 30MHz. However, in addition to receiving shortwave signals, the RF-2200 and RF-5000 can receive amplitude modulation (AM) radio signals and frequency modulation (FM) radio signals. The RF-5000 has the added advantage of being able to receive long-wave radio signals, which have wavelengths of over 1 km or about 0.62 miles.

Antenna

For receiving radio signals, the Panasonic RF-2200 relies on a single, external antenna. This antenna is rotatable -- which means users can rotate it for improving reception -- and ferrite, which means the antenna contains iron as its primary element. The RF-5000 utilizes two antennae, one on either side of its body. These antennae are telescopic and rotatable, which means users can collapse the antennae in addition to rotating them. Unlike the RF-2200, the RF-5000 also includes a folding-loop antenna. The loop antenna helps the RF-5000 receive long-wave radio signals, which are susceptible to electrical interference from nearby sources. Sources such as motors and power lines can cause buzzing sounds that disrupt long-wave signal reception.

Size

Of the Panasonic RF-2200 and RF-5000, the latter is the larger radio. The RF-2200 has dimensions of 12.6 inches wide by 7.6 inches high by 4 inches deep and weighs 7.5 lb. In comparison, the RF-5000 has dimensions of 16.8 inches wide by 11.6 inches high by 5.75 inches deep and weighs 22.8 lb.

Power

Both the Panasonic RF-2200 and RF-5000 can operate using alternating current (AC) power or batteries. While the RF-2200 requires either 120 volts of AC (120 VAC) or four D batteries, the RF-5000 requires either 117 VAC or six D batteries.

Tags: radio signals, RF-2200 RF-5000, Panasonic RF-2200, RF-5000 receive, shortwave signals

About Health Insurance For Small Business Owners

Small businesses have various options available to offer some type of health insurance coverage to employees no matter what state the business is located. A small business owner can provide a managed care plan or an individual health insurance policy. States also have high-risk pools for businesses and individuals who cannot obtain health insurance coverage. Another option to a small business is to use a health savings account.

Employer Coverage

The most common type of insurance that a small business owner can offer employees is a group health insurance plan. Coverage that is provided by an employer is not required by federal law and is provided to employees voluntarily. Group health insurance plans offered by an employer are subsidized because they pay most of the premium. This is because group health plans provided by an employer can receive federal income tax subsidies.

Individual Coverage

Many small business owners cannot afford to provide health insurance coverage to their employees. As a result an individual health insurance policy will be needed. Small business owners who are sole proprietors may also require this type of policy. Individual health insurance coverage is regulated by the states. Some states require coverage to be guaranteed regardless of medical history and others allow insurers to decide if they want to provide a policy.

State High Risk Pools

Many states have set up high-risk insurance pools that act as the insurer of last resort in the states that they are offered. This means that individuals and small business owners who cannot obtain coverage in the standard market because of a health condition or other reason can receive coverage. The cost for a policy in a high-risk pool is going to be more than a policy from a private insurer. The eligibility for a high-risk pool varies depending on the rules for a specific state.

Managed Care Plans

A managed care plan uses a health maintenance organization (HMO) such as Blue Cross and Blue Shield or a preferred provider network (PPO) to provide health care. These plans have a network of providers that can be used but a primary doctor or physician must be chosen. An HMO will typically not pay for medical costs if an out-of-network doctor is used. An out-of-network doctor can be used with a PPO but individuals will be responsible for more costs.

Health Savings Plan

Small business owners can offer employees a health savings account that can be used with a high deductible health insurance plan. An employer and employee deposit funds in an account that can be used for medical costs. Pre-tax money is placed in the account that can then be used for a qualified medical expense. Money that is spent on a qualified medical expense will not be taxed as income.

Tags: health insurance, health insurance coverage, insurance coverage, account that, business owners

Mri Drug Effects

MRI Drugs May Be Dangerous

The MRI has become one of the greatest tools for diagnostic medicine in the modern era. It enables doctors to see the human body in ways not previously possible, allowing them to better diagnose tumors earlier in their growth process and see tears in muscle tissue and ligaments that would have gone unnoticed before. The process depends on gadolinium, a contrast material injected into the bloodstream. Recent data suggests that their may be some adverse effects of this drug.

Designed Effects of Contrast Material

Gadolinium is injected into the blood stream to act as a contrast material. Its effect on the body is to make blood vessels standout to the magnetic resonance imaging machine in order to create a picture of the inside of the body. This is how an MRI is able to detect tumors and other abnormalities because it can detect differences in the soft tissue of the body thanks to the gadolinium.

Skin Conditions

In May 2007, the FDA ordered an investigation of the highest order (black box) into the effects of gadolinium on other systems of the body. The investigation determined that patients with kidney problems after undergoing an MRI were at an increased risk of developing nephrogenic systemic fibrosis, a skin disease that is potentially fatal afflicting the patient with flulike symptoms, muscle weakness, burning and itching of the effected areas. The FDA has recommended that patients suffering from kidney disease or failure should avoid MRI procedures and gadolinium injections. MRI contrast material can also cause minor skin irritations like rashes and hives.

Impaired Kidney Function

MRI contrast material may cause diminished kidney function in those injected with it during the diagnostic procedure. This poses a greater risk for those with kidney disease or are experiencing renal failure as this could prove potentially fatal. Since there are five approved brands of gadolinium on the market currently, it is unclear which is these poses the greatest risk in terms of kidney damage.

Blood Vessel Interactions

Because gadolinium is a denser material injected into the blood stream, it has been known to cause irritation of the blood vessels. This can result in swelling, discomfort in the chest or a feeling of being light-headed. MRI contract material can also cause swelling of the face (due to irritated blood vessels) as that region of the body has the largest amount of blood vessels flowing to it.

Tags: blood vessels, contrast material, injected into, also cause, blood stream, injected into blood, into blood

Is Breast Pain Normal After My Period

Breast pain during, after and before menstruation is commonly experienced by women.

Some women regularly experience breast pain after menstruation. However, if you experience breast pain and it isn't the norm for you, contact your physician.

Considerations

Several conditions and injuries can cause breast pain. Many women fear that breast pain may be a symptom of breast cancer, but according to Medline Plus, breast pain is not a common symptom of breast cancer.

Causes

Breast pain or soreness is a normal sign of menstruation, and pain may begin as early as two weeks before your period starts. The main cause of breast pain after menstruation is cyclical changes in hormone levels, with pregnancy being the second most common cause.

Fibrocystic Breast Changes

Fibrocystic breast tissue contains lumps and every woman has them. Right before your menstrual period, they tend to become swollen and tender, causing discomfort. These changes are natural and benign. Women who develop this regularly are said to have fibrocystic breast disease, which affects 60 percent of women, according to Medline Plus.

Treatment

Your physician may prescribe oral contraceptives to regulate hormones, which can relieve breast pain. If breast pain is due to injury, use an ice-cold compress for pain relief. Make sure to wrap the ice pack in a cloth; don't put ice directly on the skin. You may also take aspirin to relieve the pain.

Special Considerations

In some cases, breast pain after menstruation may be caused by a breast infection, which can be treated with antibiotics. If there is nipple discharge in addition to the pain, see your physician.

Tags: breast pain, breast pain, after menstruation, breast pain after, pain after

Colon Cancer Risk Assessment

Ninety percent of colon cancers are found in people age 50 and older.

There are many factors that can affect your risk of developing colon cancer. When you participate in a colon cancer risk assessment, you answer questions about your lifestyle and family history. Your responses indicate whether or not you're at an increased risk of developing colon cancer in your lifetime.

Risk Factors

Age, gender, diet, activity level and family history of the disease are just some of the factors that influence your probability of developing colon cancer. Risk assessments ask questions about each of these areas.

Online Tools

There are free colon cancer risk assessments available online. Two such tests can be found at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the Siteman Cancer Center (see References).

NCI

NCI's questionnaire states specifically that it is only for people age 50 to 85. Also, it cautions that the risk estimates do not include statistics for American Indians or Alaska Natives. The Siteman Cancer Center doesn't mention any age or racial limitations.

Findings

Your risk results are given in percentages. You'll also see how your risk score compares with people who are of the same age, gender and race.

Expert Insight

NCI advises you take the results of your assessment to your doctor for further explanation and interpretation.

Tags: colon cancer, developing colon, developing colon cancer, Cancer Center, cancer risk

Pay Scale For A House Framer

Framing carpenters are paid to construct housing frames.

House framers play an important role in housing construction by providing the structure upon which the house's exterior rests. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that 71,360 of the 620,410 carpenters employed nationwide worked in the foundation, structure and building exterior field. Salaries earned by those working as house framers tend to be slightly below the national average for all other carpenters.

Average Salary

House framers earned an average annual salary of $41,280 per year, as of May 2010, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This salary was lower than the average salary earned by all carpenters nationwide. Carpenters throughout the U.S. made an average salary of $43,890 on an annual basis. House framers made just slightly more than residential building construction carpenters who made $41,010 per year.

Pay Scale

The pay scale for those working in the carpentry field reveals that those working as framing contractors can make more or less than the average salary in this field, depending on various factors such as location, employer and experience. The bureau indicates that the median salary for those working in this field was $39,530, with the middle half of the pay scale making between $30,710 and $53,880 per year. Those in the upper 10 percent of the pay scale made salaries of $71,660 or more per year, while the lowest paid framers made less than $24,650 on an annual basis.

Location

Location can play a role in determining the salaries earned by those working as framing carpenters. According to the bureau, the largest number of workers in this field were employed in the states of Florida, Texas, Pennsylvania, California and New York where the average annual salary for framers and other carpenters ranged from $32,430 to $54,600 per year. The highest paid workers in this field were employed in Hawaii and earned an average salary of $66,170.

Job Outlook

The number of jobs in the field of carpentry should grow by about 13 percent from 2008 to 2018, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The bureau indicates that the job growth in this field will stem from the growth of the population and its need for increased housing. Business expansion will also affect job growth as businesses expand and build new offices. As a result, the bureau projects an increase of 165,400 total jobs in this field during this time period.

Tags: this field, those working, average salary, Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics, Labor Statistics, according Bureau Labor

What Is Arnica Oil

What Is Arnica Oil?

Arnica oil is made from the infusion of fresh or dried arnica flowers. The bright yellow flowers are picked in late summer and submerged in oil. The oil draws out the healing properties of the arnica flowers. Arnica oil is used for sports injuries, sore muscles, swelling, bruising and inflammation. Arnica oil can be infused at home or purchased at most heath food stores.

Arnica Infusions

To make an arnica infused oil, it is best to pick the flowers on a clear warm day and dry them in the sun. This insures that moisture remains absent from the oil preparation. If water gets onto the oil it can cause the infusion to spoil. The arnica flowers should be fully submerged in oil. This will to prevent air contact from causing mold to form on the plant material. Commonly used base oils for arnica preparations include vegetable oil, jojoba oil, grape seed oil, and almond oil.

Properties

Sesquiterpene lactones, found in arnica preparations, inhibit inflammation and swelling by slowing the immune reaction. Often, when traumatic injury takes place, the immune system over reacts sending excess blood and fluids to the effected area. Using topical arnica oil can help to slow this response, decreasing pain and discoloration associated with bruising. The constituent in arnica include arnicin, an unstable volatile oil found in the flower head, phulin and tannin's found the rhizome, as well as resin, flavonoids, mucilage, lactones, and polysaccharides.

Injuries

Using arnica oil on the site of an injury stimulates the the area. Blood flows quickly to, and away from, the injury. This prevents build up of tissue, resulting is faster healing time. Arnica oil can be used on injuries to the soft tissue system such as bruises, sprains and inflammation due to impact or fracture. Arnica oil can also be used to help relieve pain and swelling associated with arthritis. Fine hairs form the arnica plant can cause irritation. For this reason, it is best used only on unbroken skin.

Uses

Arnica-infused oils can be used as a massage oil to stimulate the body and soothe muscle pain. Athletes often use arnica oil to sooth over used and strained muscles and to help prevent long-term tissue damage. A few drops of arnica oil can be diluted and used as a mouthwash to improve gum conditions and inflammation. It is important to note that arnica should not be used internally. You may rinse with it only if you spit it out. Arnica oil can also be diluted and used as a hair oil to stimulate the scalp and promote hair growth.

Considerations

Arnica Oil is safe for adults and children when used topically on soft tissue injuries. Arnica should not be used on broken skin and rashes. Arnica is considered toxic, and it should not be used internally unless under the close observation of a physician. Consuming arnica internally can cause heart palpitations, dizziness, vomiting, and death. Some people can be allergic to arnica. If treating an injury with arnica oil causes a rash to occur, treatment should be discontinued.

Tags: arnica flowers, should used, Arnica also, arnica preparations, Arnica used

Thermography Standards

Thermography outlines thermal heat distribution on the human body.

Thermography is a form of heat scanning. A thermogram is a result of the thermography process. The thermogram maps out the distribution of heat on a body or object.

Uses

Thermography is often used in the medical field. A thermogram of a body may reveal metabolic issues.

Types

Two forms of technology can register and create a thermogram. An electronic infrared camera is a camera with two infrared lasers that aim at an object. The camera computes and combines both laser results to form a thermogram image. The other form is a liquid crystal camera that contains cholesteric methyl-ester derivatives. The crystals react to heat by changing color. A thermogram is developed by taking a picture and having the crystals react to the heat.

Requirements

A thermogram is most accurate when the temperature is around 18 to 23 degrees Celsius, or 64 to 73 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, the humidity or air moisture level of an environment must be low. With no moisture and a stable temperature, a thermography expert may present an accurate thermogram of the human body or of an object.

Tags: body object, crystals react, crystals react heat, human body, react heat

Career Development Grants For Women

With some research, you can find a variety of career development grants for women.

Women with noteworthy talent and achievements have the opportunity to apply for grants that help them develop professionally. Career grants are given to women directly or issued as funding for programs that aid women and offer career development activities. Applicants can apply for grants ranging from research and mathematics to science and environmental management.

Types

Various types of grants are offered to female scholarships for different purposes and career goals. While some winners may use their grants to advocate for children's disabilities, others might focus on developing their skills in a specific sector or specialty. For example, applicants to the career development grants offered by the American Society of Microbiology must use their funds for postdoctoral work in the area of microbiology. Grants differ according to how the funds can be used -- whether for tuition-related expenses, research projects or travel. Due to the high cost of undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs, some grants are also intended to help women who are nontraditional students, returning to school or re-entering the workforce.

Time Frame

The time frame required to process and distribute grants varies according to the size, location and overall goals of the grant program. For instance, the American Association of University Women (AAUW) stated that 2011-to-2012 applicants can submit applications between the months of August and December. Grants are valid beginning July 2011 through June 2012. The Association for Women in Mathematics stated that the deadlines for their travel grant for women researchers is February 1, May 1 and October 1 of each year.

Awards

Awards also vary by program. For example, the AAUW awards individual career development grants ranging between $2,000 and $12,000. The American Society for Biology postdoctoral grant for women is a cash award of $1,200. Mathematics travel grants offered to women mathematicians through the Association for Women in Mathematics range from $1,500 for U.S. travel to $2,000 for international travel.

Requirements

For postdoctoral grants, applicants should possess a bachelor's degree and be currently enrolled in a PhD program. The American Society of Microbiology provides grants only to postdoctoral candidates who need funding for travel to meetings, labs and other locations specifically related to career advancement. Programs such as the AWM National Science Foundation grant specify that applicants must live or work in the United States. Additionally, previous winners from the past two years are not eligible to apply. Other requirements include caps on external government funding for travel. For example, AWM-NSF applicants receiving more than $2,000 annually for travel from the government cannot apply to the program.

Tags: American Society, career development, career development grants, grants offered, American Society Microbiology, apply grants, Association Women

The Average Salary Of A Marine

The U.S. Marine Corps rewards experienced soldiers with additional pay and allowances.

One of the seven divisions of the United States Armed Forces, the U.S. Marine Corps works with the United States Navy to provide combined-task defense across America's coastline. Like all branches of the U.S. military, the Marine Corps offers numerous positions, each with varying salaries and benefits that increase with experience and rank. Those interested in enlisting can call 1-800-MARINES to speak to a local recruiter.

Combat Positions

According to global online compensation database PayScale, the median annual salary for a U.S. Marine Corps ground combat Corporal is $26,987 as of 2011. The same source reports median annual incomes of $36,328 and $23,707 for U.S. Marine Corps police or sheriff's patrol officers and firefighters, respectively. In 2011, the Marine Corps Times reports that an enlisted Marine with less than two years of service making basic pay earns $1,467.60 per month or $17,611.20 per year.

Noncombat Positions

A 2011 PayScale report indicates a wide range of salaries for U.S. Marines serving in noncombat positions. According to these figures, an avionics technician earns a median annual salary of $40,800 while an aircraft mechanic or service technician earns about $26,484 yearly. Network administrators in the Marines earn median salaries of $31,600 annually while intelligence analysts top the chart with median salaries of $53,867.

Variables

The salary of a U.S. Marine varies greatly depending on his pay grade. Enlisted Marines, warrant officers and officers all have nine different pay grades that affect pay and benefits accordingly. Years of service also have a great effect on salary. For instance, a warrant officer with four years of service under his belt might earn an annual 2011 basic pay salary of about $39,000 while a 20-year officer makes between $50,000 or more. These figures account for 12 months of service per year with basic pay. Drill pay drastically decreases the amount of monthly earnings.

Benefits and Bonuses

U.S. Marines receive basic allowances for housing with dependents, dislocation, clothing and subsistence. Again, allowances vary depending on rank. Housing allowances in 2011 range from about $700 to $3,000 per month while subsistence allowances range from about $225 to $325 monthly. Marines also receive special pay rates for hardship duty, service during imminent danger and involuntary separations. The U.S. military provides Marines with medical and dental insurance coverage.

Tags: Marine Corps, median annual, annual salary, from about, median annual salary, median salaries, range from

Diagnostic & Medical Equipment

The tools of diagnostic medicine can vary from the simple to complex.

Diagnostic tools serve the purpose of ascertaining specific information which the diagnostician (in the case of medicine, your doctor) can use to determine if there is something wrong with you, or if you are already suffering, why there is something wrong with you.

Stethoscope

Arguably one of the icons of the medical profession, the stethoscope has been in use for more than 200 years. This simple device allows the doctor to listen to your heart beat and is often the first tool employed by medical professionals when examining you. Modern stethoscopes can come with the capability to record heartbeats to MP3 files for later consultation.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a technologically sophisticated modern tool that makes detailed, three-dimensional scans of internal organs such as the brain, heart and spinal cord. A variety of contrast agents can be injected into the patient before the scan for different purposes: some make abnormal structures more readily visible, some are used to track centers of activity in the brain (where more blood is being used) and others can be used to look for coronary disease in the heart.

X-Ray Machines

X-ray machines are the oldest type of internal medical imaging equipment. They pass highly charged and mildly radioactive particles, X-rays, through your body into a receiving plate below. The differing densities of the material the rays pass through before they hit the plate result in detailed images of bone structures and some information about internal organs. They are commonly used to diagnose broken bones, check dental structures and look for the fluid in the lungs indicative of pneumonia.

Tags: internal organs, something wrong, something wrong with, there something, there something wrong, wrong with

Ultrasound Facts In Dating A Pregnancy

Ultrasound Facts in Dating a Pregnancy

Ultrasound testing during pregnancy allows physicians to monitor the development of the unborn baby and to pinpoint potential problems before birth. High-frequency sound waves scan the mother's abdomen, bouncing off the baby and the surrounding tissue to form a real-time moving picture of the baby in the womb. Because most fetuses develop within a common scale, the physician can date the mother's pregnancy by measuring different areas of the baby.

History

In 1942, two Austrian medical scientists pioneered the use of bounced sound waves in an attempt to find brain abnormalities. In the 1950s, the technology was improved and use of ultrasound technology spread rapidly in the medical community. By the 1980s, ultrasound use in obstetrics was common and today, the images relayed by the bounced sound waves offer doctors and parents-to-be an opportunity to see the unborn baby in detail.

Function

Doctors can date the approximate age of an unborn baby by measuring different parts of his body and comparing them to a national standard of fetus growth. In some cases, an ultrasound may confirm a pregnancy. By the fifth week of pregnancy, about three weeks after a woman misses her menstrual period, an ultrasound can pinpoint the gestational sac in which the fetus will grow.

Identification

During the first trimester of pregnancy, your obstetrician may take one of four different measurements to ensure that your baby is growing on schedule. Before the seventh week of pregnancy, in addition to the appearance of the gestational sac, the yolk sac becomes visible on an ultrasound. At the beginning of the seventh week, the embryo is visible and grows about 1mm every day. By the eighth week, your doctor can measure the distance from the tip of your baby's head to his behind, resulting in a crown-rump measurement.

Features

Ultrasound technology allows your doctor to take advanced measurements of your baby during the second and third trimester of your pregnancy. During this time, the length of the baby's femur (the large bone in the thigh), is measured, as well as the circumference of the baby's head and the circumference of his abdomen. In addition, your doctor may estimate the weight of your baby.

Considerations

While most ultrasounds performed during pregnancy use a hand-held transducer, positioned on the mother's abdomen, a transvaginal scan may be more accurate during the first weeks of pregnancy. A Doppler ultrasound allows the physician to adjust the sound wave sensitivity to create images of blood cells and other small areas of concern. Dynamic ultrasound machines show a three-dimensional image of the baby when a clearer image is desirable.

Tags: your baby, sound waves, unborn baby, your doctor, baby head

Why Is October Breast Cancer Month

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM) is held every October to raise awareness of the disease and raise money for research. One of the major goals of NBCAM is to encourage women to self-check for early detection of breast cancer.

History

NBCAM was founded in 1985 by AstraZeneca, a drug company that makes the drugs Armidex and Tamoxifen, both used to fight breast cancer.

October

One of the reasons October was chosen is that the first Race for the Cure was held then in 1983. Eight hundred people took part in Dallas, Texas. Today, more than a million people take part in the annual race.

Pink Days

People are encouraged to hold pink-themed parties in October to raise money for breast cancer. These "pink days" extend to the workplace, where people wear pink to support those with breast cancer.

Controversy

Some critics of NBCAM, such as the Cancer Prevention Coalition, have spoken out, saying the organization is too fixated on early detection rather than blaming environmental factors that cause cancer.

Famous Ties

The Estee Lauder Company created the pink ribbon as the symbol of NBCAM in 1993.

Tags: breast cancer, Breast Cancer, early detection, October raise, raise money

Picking A Medicare Part D Drug Coverage Plan

Elderly and disabled people often have very high drug costs. Medicare, the federally-administered health care program, offers Part D prescription drug coverage. Putting in the effort and doing research before signing up for a plan can save a Medicare enrollee hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Instructions

1. Make a list of all the prescriptions you need, how often you take them and at what dose. You will also want a list of the pharmacies you like to use. You will need this information because plans often have limited formularies (lists of drugs they will help pay for) and a limited network of participating pharmacies. When you're picking a plan, you want them to cover your drugs and your pharmacy.

2. Make sure you are allowed to enroll. This means you need to be in a Medicare enrollment period. Those new to Medicare can enroll during their initial enrollment period. Everyone else can sign up during the annual coordinated election period. The annual coordinated election period begins on November 15 and ends on December 31. Part D coverage will begin on January 1.

3. Visit the official Medicare website. It has an online plan finder tool that will help you find plans in your area and will give you the ability to compare prices (see Resources).

4. Start your plan finder search. You have two search options: The "Personalized Search" or the "General Search." You will have to enter your Medicare number and other personal identification information if you use the personalized search, but it will have better access to your information, and your search will be more customized. If you don't want to share any personal information, you can use the general search. Answer the questions that the website asks, and then continue.

5. Enter the drugs you use and the pharmacy you prefer, from the list you made in Step 1. You will do this under the "Get Drug Costs for Available Plans" option. This will further customize the search by eliminating plans that don't cover many of your drugs and showing you a more accurate price. Once you enter all your information, you will get a list of your local plans. You can search through the list and compare plans on this page.

6. Call the plans that are within your price range. You will want to confirm that a plan covers the drugs you take, and you will want to ask if there are any restrictions, such as step therapy or prior authorization, placed on the drugs.

7. Sign up for a plan. You can enroll in the plan over the phone, through the web or by mail. You can also enroll yourself through Medicare.gov or by calling 800-MEDICARE.

Tags: annual coordinated, annual coordinated election, coordinated election, coordinated election period, election period, enrollment period, enter your

Cheap Parade Float Ideas

Parade floats can be as elaborate or as simple as the creator cares to make them. They can also be either very expensive, or very cheap. Designing a cheap parade float doesn't mean it will look cheap either. Many beautiful floats are entered into parades and come out big winners. That doesn't necessarily mean that they had a big expense, it just means the people that built them used a lot of creativity.

Child's Float

Everyone enjoys seeing children having fun. It doesn't matter what the theme of the float is, so long as it is packed with cute kids having a good time. Try to follow the theme of the parade and let the children help decorate. Do not fret if your float is not perfect because it is really supposed to be about family and fun.

Little girls love playing dress up. Design your float as a tea party setting. You only need to place a table and chairs on it and some minor decorations. Ask friends or family to lend the little girls some fancy party dresses, hats, purses and jewelry.

Borrow some large potted ferns or other plants to set at each corner of your float. If you can get a little boy to volunteer for it, dress him up as a butler and let him serve the "ladies" as the float travels its route.

Boys enjoy dirt bikes and four wheelers. If you have them, use them for your float. Pack dirt onto the wagon floor, or perhaps a straw bale or two. Your theme will be a day at the dirt track. Secure the dirt bikes or four wheelers to the wagon safely. Dress the boys in their riding gear. Add inexpensive checkered flags around the outer edge of the wagon.

Make a CD or tape of the dirt bikes or four wheelers running and "racking" their pipes. Play this as the parade moves around its route. Your little racers can sit all around the edge of the float, or beside the four-wheelers or dirt bikes. Make sure they are smudged with dirt to look authentic.

Adult Floats

Consider using your business theme, or creating a "nifty fifty" dance or restaurant theme. Cover the floor of the wagon with large sheets of cardboard and paint it large black and white squares. You can even extend the cardboard down the sides of the wagon and have your 50's floor theme as the skirt of the float.

If you know a couple that can dance a jitterbug ask them to perform on the float. Set some short stools at one end of the float. Try to find the old chrome and red stools to match the theme. You can name your float, "Lost in the Fifties" or "Those Were the Days." if you have a sense of humor, name it "Grandma's Goodtimes."

Make sure everyone on your float is dressed in 50's attire. Check thrift stores, costume shops and even people's closets for the clothing. Play a CD or tape filled with music from the 50's. Play it loud, get your couple to dance, dance, dance.

Have the people on your float encourage the parade watchers to clap to the music as you pass. If the parade has slowed in a certain spot, jump off and see if you can find someone willing to get up and dance with you. It's supposed to be fun, so make it that away.

Tags: your float, dirt bikes, bikes four, bikes four wheelers, dirt bikes four, four wheelers, dance dance

About Cardiology Administrator Jobs

Cardiology is a form of medicine that focuses on the human heart. Cardiologists often have their own practices or work for larger health-care institutions. These health-care institutions employ cardiology administrator positions, which are relatively high in demand. These administrators can be cardiologists or merely managers. There are a large variety of cardiology administrator jobs, since each clinic can create whatever positions it chooses. The first four sections describe cardiology administrators commonly sought after, while the last section describes the typical requirements of these positions.

Practice Administrator

This job does not require any education beyond a four-year bachelor's degree and a GED. This career does require seven years of management experience. The role of the administrator is to provide administrative leadership direction for the physicians at a clinic.

Documentation Auditor Administrator

In this role, the administrator keeps cardiologists and other physicians up to date on standard medical documentation, evaluation, management, services, testing and procedures. This administrator also audits the cardiologist's selection of codes and documentation. The cardiology administrator is expected to meet with the administrative director to discuss problems and solutions.

Cardiology PACS Administrator

Cardiology Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) administrators are expected to handle IT and the PACS machine. PACS administrators work with network connections and imaging equipment. PACS administrators will access patient information through hemodynamic systems, transcription systems and image systems.

Administrative Directors

Administrative directors exist to ensure that health-care institutions run smoothly. Hospitals and other health-care institutions are looking for both medical specialists and those generally experienced with administration. For instance, clinical managers are expected to specialize in specific practices such as cardiology, while other administrators have more general responsibilities such as managing information.

Considerations

Job opportunities for cardiology administrators are excellent for those with experience in health care. Master's degrees in medicine- or management-related fields are often good credentials. Sometimes bachelor's degrees are adequate. The hours are very long, and administrators are often on call.

Tags: health-care institutions, PACS administrators, cardiology administrator, cardiology administrators, does require, role administrator

Cope With A Spinal Headache

Cope With a Spinal Headache

Procedures that puncture the spinal cord such as an epidural or a spinal tap carry the risk of the puncture leaking cerebral spinal fluid and causing a terrible headache for the patient. This is known as a spinal, or epidural, headache. This can be an excruciating experience, but with treatment it can be gone in 48 hours. Without treatment, however, it could last up to 7 days.

Instructions

1. Lie down. This won't get rid of the headache, but most people with spinal headaches get some relief from lying down.

2. Hydrate. Drink plenty of water. It is important to increase the pressure in the cerebral spinal fluid. It may be possible to do this just by drinking plenty of fluids.

3. Drink something with caffeine. Caffeine constricts blood vessels, which helps boost pressure in the spinal fluid.

4. Rest for 24 to 48 hours. This might be difficult if you just had a baby, but do the best you can to stay off your feet and in bed.

5. Contact your doctor if none of these methods help. A procedure called a blood patch is a final option an anesthesiologist can perform. This involves taking a small amount of blood from the patient, and then injecting it into the hole in the spinal column. The blood clots and stops the leak, providing relief from the headache.

Tags: spinal fluid, cerebral spinal, cerebral spinal fluid, Cope With, Cope With Spinal, relief from

About California Lowcost Women'S Health Insurance

California offers low-cost health insurance for women.

California has several options for low-income women needing health insurance. Medi-Cal, the state's version of Medicaid, offers care to women who meet certain income guidelines. Both the federal and the state government fund Medi-Cal, which each county operates through its welfare office. For pregnant women or those with specific types of cancer, other options exist.

Eligibility

Low-income women living in California over the age of 65, under the age of 21 or who are pregnant or disabled can apply for Medi-Cal. Women caring for a child under the age of 21 because the child's parent has died or lost his job can also apply, as can women enrolled in the welfare program CalWorks. Medi-Cal targets people without other health insurance. Each county's welfare office determines if an applicant meets the required income guidelines.

Applying

Applicants should contact their county's welfare office for a Medi-Cal application. After filling out the forms and supplying the required verifications, the welfare office typically processes the information within 45 days. For disabled applicants, the process could take up to 90 days because the welfare office needs extra information like medical records from doctors' offices. After the welfare office approves or denies an application, it sends the applicant a letter. Applicants can appeal denials up to the state level.

Benefits

Medi-Cal benefits range from covered doctors' visits to drug and alcohol treatment and mental health services. Women can also receive prescription pills, along with vision and dental care. For women with chronic or complicated conditions, the state offers a medical case management service, under which a registered nurse works with the patient, acting as a case manager to ease treatment. The nurse helps expedite any necessary approvals for medical services, and also connects the patient to other available resources.

Cost

A woman whose income falls beneath Medi-Cal limits can receive the insurance for free. If her income falls beneath a second threshold, the welfare office determines a so-called share of cost, which functions like a deductible. Once a woman has met her share of cost for the month, Medi-Cal will pay any other eligible medical expenses during that month.

Pregnancy Care

A second program that California bills as insurance for middle-income pregnant women helps expecting mothers who earn too much money to qualify for Medi-Cal but still lack affordable health care. California calls the program the Access for Infants and Mothers (AIM) Program. A woman can have other insurance and still qualify if her deductible for the baby's delivery would exceed $500. Through the related Healthy Families Program, an enrolled mother's young children can receive affordable medical care.

Cancer Care

Medi-Cal also offers a Breast and Cervical Cancer Treatment Program for low-income women who live in California and who have received a diagnosis of either of these diseases. The state pays for breast cancer treatments for up to 18 months and cervical cancer treatment for up to two years. Federal benefits continue through the entire treatment period, as long as the woman meets the eligibility requirements. Women can apply online, and benefits can begin immediately while the state determines eligibility.

Tags: welfare office, health insurance, care women, county welfare, county welfare office, falls beneath

Teach Radiography

Processing X-ray images is part of learning about radiography.

When teaching an advanced skill such as radiography, it's important to know your students have a stable base to build upon. Radiography students must know basic biology, physiology and physics, and have taken courses that emphasize safe use of hospital equipment, as well as communication and people skills. The most important aspect of teaching radiography, however, is using case studies and hands-on experience.

Instructions

1. Test your students on basic biology, physiology and physics concepts. Make this test similar to an SAT, with a high volume of multiple choice questions. Rather than apply this to the overall course grade, use it for guidance in choosing a starting point. Use the average score of the class to choose an optimal starting point in your radiography course.

2. Introduce the course by giving a historical perspective of radiography. This will place the skill in context. In one or two lessons, describe the evolution of radiography and the methods and technology used throughout time.

3. Describe basic radiographic tools, such as the X-ray and dark room. Describe the composition of radiographic film, how the images are created, read them, classify what you see in the image, the types of projections you may encounter and care for and store radiographic film.

4. Reiterate composition skills in a lab and orrient students to the darkroom. Teach them process their own radiographic images.

5. Give students hypothetical situations and let them act the situations out in a role play scenario, writing assignments or another creative medium. Center these situations around interactions with clients. Have students read out and describe film results to their patient.

6. Test students on the parts and functions of an X-ray machine, as well as lab technique, classifying results and dealing with patients.

7. Let students create their own final assignment on radiography such as an essay report on the history of radiography or an internship where they assist or shadow a radiologist. Have students present their final projects to the class.

Tags: basic biology, basic biology physiology, biology physiology, biology physiology physics, Have students, physiology physics, radiographic film

Annual Physical Recommendations For Teens

Teens require special care.

Annual physicals are an important part of maintaining good health for all individuals, particularly for children and teenagers. For every age group there are certain guidelines or industry-wide recommendations that dictate what doctors may look for during an annual physical. For teens, in particular, an annual physical may focus on growth in terms of weight and height, as well as hormonal changes taking place during puberty.

General Examination

During an annual physical it is recommended to check several general health components. These include vision and hearing screenings, obesity and eating disorder evaluations, scoliosis, oral health and immunization history. Doctors may also check for issues brought up by the teen or her parent, such as hormonal issues, questions about puberty or sports-related problems or injuries.

Male-Specific Components

Teen boys should be evaluated annually for male-specific health, according to Children's Hospital Boston. This might include a check of the male genital area. Doctors should also ask questions about sexual history and encourage teen males to ask questions about penis function or growth, as well as any issues he may be having related to normal adolescent changes.

Female-Specific Components

Teen females must also be evaluated annually for issues specific to their genitalia. The Kids Health website states females should visit the gynecologist for an annual examination somewhere between the ages of 13 or 15, or when they become sexually active. The gynecologist will ask questions about the teen's level of sexual activity and conduct a pap smear. She may also do an annual visual inspection of the vagina and cervix to ensure there are no obvious health issues.

Considerations

If you have questions about your teens growth patterns or behavioral issues, don't shy away from asking them during the exam. No question is a stupid one and a concern you raise might trigger a red flag for an underlying condition affecting your teen. Be insistent even if your doctor seem as though he is a hurry. Your teen's health is your chief concern and sometimes you have to be aggressive to get him the quality of care he needs.

Tags: questions about, annual physical, Components Teen, evaluated annually

Cancer Patient Assistance Programs

Trained medical professionals serve on the staff of many cancer patient assistance programs.

Coping with cancer is more than a medical challenge; it affects patients, family, friends and caregivers in physical, emotional and even financial capacities. Luckily, nationwide non-profit organizations exist to provide assistance to cancer patients. Help comes in numerous forms, from referring patients to treatment centers to providing them with the information they need to get well. Assistance programs help cancer patients become cancer survivors.

Patient Advocate Foundation

The Patient Advocate Foundation is a national non-profit organization that provides case management services to American patients with chronic, life threatening or debilitating illnesses, including cancer. Services provided by the PAF include active liaisons between patients and insurers, as well as employers and creditors. This foundation strives to protect patients via mediation, offers them access to medical care, helps retain their jobs and preserves their financial stability. The PAF also provides education, referrals and legal counseling. PAF's MedCareLine--a phone line staffed by trained caregivers--caters specifically to patients with colorectal cancer, while its Disparities Outreach program provides specific assistance to African American communities. Cancer patients may request PAF assistance via the organization's official website.

Patient Advocate Foundation

421 Butler Farm

Hampton, VA 23666

800-532-5274

patientadvocate.org

The National Cancer Institute

Part of the United States National Institutes of Health, the National Cancer Institute focuses on cancer research and training. In areas of patient assistance, the institute provides accessible information about patient support, financial and insurance help, home care and hospice care. The NCI assists cancer patients via direct telephone lines, online chats and e-mail services staffed with cancer information specialists. The National Cancer Institute's website serves as a wide-ranging information database for patients, caregivers, family and friends. It contains information about managing physical and emotional cancer effects, helping children with cancer, cancer survivorship and managing financial, insurance and legal difficulties. NCI also lists recent clinical trial results and helps patients find nearby clinical trials. Online, the NCI helps patients find local health care services, including treatment facilities, at-home assistance and hospices.

NCI Office of Communications and Education

Public Inquiries Office

6116 Executive Blvd.

Suite 300

Bethesda, MD 20892

800-422-6237

cancer.gov

Cancer Survivors On Line

Cancer Survivors On Line serves as an assistance program for patients recently diagnosed with cancer. This online-only support program provides an accessible database for patients, giving them access to inspiring survivor stories, listing numerous cancer assistance hot lines and providing cancer-related links. This online organization also provides a medical glossary, a guide to planning treatments and a reference section for further reading. Covering cancer types including breast, colorectal, gynecological, head and neck, leukemia, lung and urologic, Cancer Survivors On Line provides information and directories that assist patients in medical treatment and coping with emotions.

Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition

According to its official website, the Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition--or CFAC--is a body of patient financial assistance programs. This group advocates on behalf of cancer patients undergoing financial burdens due to medical treatment and care, grants patients and providers access to financial assistance resources, and has links to financially-focused patient organizations. Organizations in the coalition include the American Cancer Society, the CancerCare Co-Payment Assistance Foundation, the HeathWell Foundation, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Co-Pay Assistance Program, the Max Foundation and Patient Services Incorporated. CFAC's online database allows patients and families to search by diagnosis, cancer type and location to find individually tailored financial assistance.

Tags: cancer patients, with cancer, Advocate Foundation, Cancer Institute, Cancer Survivors Line, National Cancer

About Bodybuilding & Bananas

About Bodybuilding & Bananas

For some reason, bananas are often times feared by people because they are high on the GI (glycemic index). This is a chart listing how fast a carbohydrate spikes the blood sugar. There is no need to fear a substance that is natural and packed full of health-promoting nutrients. Bodybuilders know this and eat them daily. Learn why they do.

Function

When it comes to bodybuilding, it is essential to have the right amount of fuel to power workouts. The main fuel source utilized during exercise is carbohydrate. Carbohydrates are made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. They are stored in the body as glycogen which in turn is what drives muscle contractions.

This is where the GI comes into play. If you eat foods that are high on the GI chart, then the pancreas is forced to keep releasing insulin to balance out rising blood sugar levels. This is a vicious cycle that can ultimately lead to diabetes.

In bodybuilding, the main objective is to gain lean muscle mass, so spiking the blood sugar is not the overall strategy.

With that being said, there is a time and place for high GI carbs. That would be the hour after a workout. It is at this point that the muscles are like a dry sponge and are in need of fast glycogen replenishment. Other than that, low GI carbs are the way to go. Bananas are actually a great source of nutrient-dense carbs and they fall right in the center of the GI chart. See Resources below.

Function

Bananas can also be integrated into a body builder's training table. Eating every 2 or 3 hours means eating smaller meals that are nutrient-dense. This gives the body a steady supply of nutrients and keeps blood sugar levels in check so there is no chance of unwanted fat gain.

Many bodybuilders eat this way to build lean muscle and not gaining unwanted fat. See Resources for the second link in which bananas are included in the meal plan.

Benefits

The actual nutritional content of a banana is very bodybuilding friendly. They have 3 gm of fiber, 2 gm of protein, 27gm of carbs, and are loaded with potassium. Potassium helps to relieve muscle soreness. If the diet is lacking in this key nutrient, then muscle soreness will persist causing workouts to suffer. This is never the goal of a bodybuilding routine.

Types

Bananas actually come in several varieties ranging in size from 3 inches up to 8 inches or longer. The most popular one is the Cavendish or Chiquita banana as these are the most heavily recognized and consumed variety in the U.S.

Plantains are a version that are most popular in India and they need to be cooked as they are really bitter. They have gained some acclaim recently in the states, but are not as user friendly as other types.

The Red banana is sweeter than a conventional banana and has more vitamin C and beta carotene. These are a good addition to a bodybuilders diet as they help increase immunity which gets compromised during intense weight training. They also have a pleasant sweeter taste somewhat reminiscent of raspberry.

The Baby or Nina banana is the runt of the litter. They stand in at about 3 inches in length, but they are a powerhouse of nutrition. They have all the benefits of the regular banana with the added addition of a high amount of Vitamin B-6. This is also quintessential for bodybuilding as vitamin B-6 helps with brain function and converting protein to energy. This would be a good reason to eat a banana slathered with peanut butter.

Misconceptions

As I mentioned in the introduction, there are a lot of people who fear eating bananas. There is no reason to fear them especially if you are a bodybuilder. They are a quick, easy snack, pre-workout meal, post-workout meal and an all around great supplement to add to the diet. They are universal enough to be used in any dynamic of a diet plan. They can be used for additional calories if you're looking to bulk up or they can be used by themselves if cutting weight is the goal.

Another myth is that bananas cause tooth decay. What causes tooth decay is simple carbs and sugars that lie on the teeth for long periods of time. Likely culprits are cookies, cakes, bagels and all day sipping of coffee sweetened with sugar. This causes bacteria and bacteria causes destruction and breakdown of enamel. Any residue that is left in the mouth from a banana can easily get rinsed away within a glass of water.

Tags: blood sugar, They have, About Bodybuilding, About Bodybuilding Bananas, Bananas actually, blood sugar levels, Bodybuilding Bananas

About A Government Health Savings Account

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are unique to the United States and were created as a way to help Americans acquire personal medical care without the need for government assistance.

Identification

HSAs are created by the American government to help people save for future medical expenses. A HSA is controlled by the account holder and is invested in the stock market; there are requirements and guidelines to obtain this type of account.

History

In 2003, the Medicare bill passed by the Bush Administration created the Health Savings Accounts; it was initially viewed as a positive way for average Americans to gain health care coverage.

Function

HSAs function as normal savings accounts, but are specifically used for future health care expenses, allowing you to put a set amount into the account periodically to build a nest egg for future needs.

Requirements

The one major requirement is enrollment in a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP). To get a Health Savings Account, the HDHP deductible must be at least $1,100 for individuals and $2,200 for families.

Getting an HSA

An account can be acquired through authorized banks, insurance agents or credit unions; additionally, an employer can also set up an account in an employee's name.

Tags: Health Savings, health care, Health Savings Account, Health Savings Accounts, Savings Account

List Of Charities With Most Efficient Use Of Donations

Charities are instrumental in helping society tackle issues such as environmental preservation, curing diseases and fighting hunger. To be successful, they need constant donations in terms of money, foodstuffs or volunteer time. More than 5,500 charities operate in the United States, but only some efficiently manage their donations, as per the Charity Navigator, an independent charity evaluator.

Children's Charities

Children's charities focus on child-related issues. The Children's Aid Society (CAS), based in New York, is a children's charitable organization serving more than 150,000 children annually. According to CAS, 91 cents of every dollar donated is spent directly in serving the children. The organization Horizons for Homeless Children provides educational and recreational facilities to more than 2,200 children weekly in Massachusetts and shelters 175 homeless children through its three Community Children's Centers in the same locale. Other children's charities demonstrating efficient use of donations include Our Lady's Inn in Saint Louis and Edgewood Boys Ranch in Orlando, Florida.

Humanitarian Charities

Humanitarian charities use their donations to provide direct services to people in need. Direct Relief International in California uses donations to provide medical assistance to improve the health and lives of people affected by poverty and disasters in the United States and throughout the world. According to Charity Navigator, Direct Relief has provided more than $1.4 billion worth of medicines, supplies and equipment across the world since 2000. The Food Bank of Lincoln in southeast Nebraska collects food from farmers, corporations, restaurants, churches and individuals and then distributes it to hungry people across the United States. As of 2008, the Food Bank distributed over 4.2 million pounds of food, according to Charity Navigator.

Healthcare Charities

Charities that address health-related problems such as HIV/AIDS attract a lot of donations from philanthropers. Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, located in the Longwood Medical Area in Boston, Massachusetts uses its annual revenues of about $800 million to serve more than 299,000 patients who visit its center annually. Other charities include The Paediatric Cancer Research Foundation, which focuses on improving the quality of life of children with cancer; over 80 percent of its donations go directly to research. The Breast Cancer Research Foundation in New York is a charity that directs 85 cents of every dollar donated to research and awareness programs.

Animal Charities

Animal charities protect, provide healthcare and look after the welfare of domestic and wild animals. The Citizens for Animal Protection in Houston uses 86.2 percent of its donations for sheltering, rescuing and finding homes for homeless animals. It also provides education on wildlife conservation to the public to prevent cruelty to animals. Other animal charities that use donations efficiently include the Humane Society of Southern Arizona and the Kansas Humane Society.

Christian Charities

Most Christian charities focus on advocating for integrity as well as helping humanity. Compassion International (CI) is a Christian charity that uses its donations to enable more than 1 million children across 25 countries to grow into responsible adults. According to CI, at least 80 percent of its annual expenditures are used for child development programs. To ensure efficient use of the donations, CI conducts periodic internal audits as well as annual external audits in accordance with auditing standards accepted in the United States. Other charities known to efficiently use donations include Vision International and the Christian Relief Fund.

Tags: more than, United States, Charity Navigator, Cancer Research, Cancer Research Foundation, cents every, cents every dollar

Federal Health Insurance Act

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is designed to increase the availability of health insurance coverage in the United States.

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (P.L. 111-148) was designed to expand the reach of health insurance coverage in America. Broadly, the act will require U.S. citizens and legal alien residents to carry some form of health coverage. Individuals and families will be able to purchase coverage using planned Health Benefit Exchanges. The law will also require businesses over a certain size to provide health insurance benefits for employees, though the law exempts very small businesses from this requirement. The act expands Medicaid eligibility to 133 percent of the poverty line, as defined by the federal government.

Employer Requirements

The law requires any employer with more than 50 employees and with at least one full-time employee to provide coverage, or face a fee of $2,000 per full-time employee -- not counting the first 30 employees. Employers with more than 50 employees who sponsor health plans but who have at least one full-time employee qualifying for an individual tax credit because the employer's plan is not affordable for that employee will pay $3,000 for each employee receiving a premium credit, or $2,000 for every full-time worker, whichever is less. This provision becomes effective on January 1, 2014. Employers with fewer than 50 employees are exempt.

The law requires large employers with 200 or more workers to automatically enroll employees into health plans. Employees can opt-out if they so desire.

Employer Free Choice Vouchers

Employers who provide health insurance to workers must provide a free choice voucher equal to the employer's share of the health plan premium to workers who earn less than four times the federal poverty line, if their cost burden is higher than 8 percent but lower than 9.8 percent of their income and they choose to use the exchange to join a health plan.

Individual Requirements

All U.S. and resident aliens must obtain qualifying health insurance under the new law. Anyone without health insurance will pay a penalty of $695 per year up to $2,085 or 2.5 percent of their personal income. The penalty will phase in gradually, starting with a $95 fine or 1 percent of income in 2014, $325, or 2 percent of income in 2015 and $695 or 2.5 percent of income beginning in 2016. After that point, the penalty will be indexed to the cost of living. The law provides for exemptions for hardship, religious objections, temporary lapses in coverage of three months or less, people in prison, and illegal immigrants. The plan also exempts people who would have to pay 8 percent or more of their income to enroll in the lowest-cost option, as well as anyone with an income below the income tax filing threshold.

Small Business Tax Credits

The law provides certain smaller employers with fewer than 25 full-time equivalents and average annual wages lower than $50,000 a tax credit of up to 35 percent of the cost of the employer contribution toward health insurance premiums, provided the employer subsidizes at least 50 percent of the total cost, beginning in tax year 2010. In 2014 and later years, the credit increases to as much as 50 percent. The credit phases out gradually on firms with 10 employees or more and on employers with average annual wages of $25,000 or less. Lower credits apply for tax-exempt organizations.

Miscellaneous Provisions

The law requires large employers with 200 or more workers to automatically enroll employees into health plans. Employees can opt-out if they so desire. Penalties on non-qualified distributions from a health savings account are doubled from 10 percent to 20 percent (effective January 1, 2011). Flexible spending plan contributions are limited to $2,500 per year, increased each year by the cost of living (effective 2013). Non-prescription drug coverage under health savings accounts and Archer Medical Savings Accounts are discontinued. The threshold for itemized deduction for non-reimbursed medical expenses is increased from 7.5 percent of adjusted gross income to 10 percent.

Tags: health insurance, employers with, with more, full-time employee, health plans, percent income

Health Fair Booth Tips

Start a health habit at your health fair booth.

Bring people to your health fair booth by appealing to their senses and giving them something in return. Present the information in your display in a concise and organized manner. A health fair booth may not provide everything that someone needs to know about a health topic, but it should get them thinking and give them the resources to find out more.

Location

Pick a location and time to host your health fair booth that is appealing to your target audience. Your target audience should visit the location naturally. For example, if your booth is providing information on breast cancer screening, put it with a beauty or fashion show that women will attend. If you are catering to college students, you may decide to hold the event in the student center during lunch. Put the display at eye level and along a walkway where people can see it from afar.

Curb Appeal

Play soft music to create interest in your display.

Get your message across with large, clear fonts and interesting graphics. Use a short list of important bullet points rather than large paragraphs of information. Give your poster or display a natural flow with appropriate spacing of information or numbering. Include pictures and props in your display to give a visual presentation. Play music or show a video to add interest. Highlight the name of your organization or your credentials as a part of the display to confirm the legitimacy of your presentation.

Freebies and Activities

Give away free pencils or pens.

Lure visitors to your health booth with a free gift or an activity that they can participate in. Pass out free pencils, bumper stickers, key chains or candy. Advertise a prize that they can sign up to win by visiting your booth. Conduct an activity for people to do that relates to the message of your booth. If you are addressing alcohol awareness, invite people to do tasks wearing "beer goggles" that distort their vision. Take peoples' blood pressure if your booth focuses on heart disease. You could invite someone to give free massages if your booth concerns stress issues. Take measurements and calculate body mass index to address weight management.

Followup Information

Give people something to take away from your booth so that they can find more information later on. Make a brochure or a pamphlet with notable websites, phone numbers and the names of organizations that relate to the topic of your booth. You could print the name of a relevant organization on free pencils or notepads and pass them out to visitors. Invite people to an event held at a later time to learn more information or access health services.

Tags: your booth, your health, free pencils, health fair booth, that they

Top 10 Characteristics Employers Look For Most In Job Seekers

Know what characteristics employers want and stand apart from the competition.

In today's competitive job market, when job seekers outnumber available positions, those on the lookout for work can increase their marketability by learning to improve upon the characteristics that employers desire. The simple fact is that employers are looking for a person who can not only do the job, but someone with the traits that make a good employee great.

Communication

The single most important trait in an employee is communication. Employers are always on the lookout for employees with strong communication skills. They highly prize both written and verbal communication, and job seekers can convey their ability to clearly communicate with a well written resume, cover letter, follow-up correspondence and by effectively answering interview questions.

Flexibility

The ability to be flexible and adapt is important in almost all work environments. Employers value employees who can not only multitask and think on their feet, but produce effective, adaptive answers to any problem that might arise.

Self-Confidence

If you don't have confidence in yourself, no one else will either. It is important to not only make a good first impression, but to make a continually strong showing. Confidence is key to landing and keeping the job you're applying for.

Computer Literacy

As the world becomes a more technological place, businesses must adapt to the demands of an environment where technology is king. Those who are not computer literature stand less of a chance of landing the job than those who are.

Honesty

Honesty is vital to getting, and keeping, the job. Be honest on your resume and truthful with the interviewer. Honest employees earn the faith of their employers with their personal integrity and move up the ladder more swiftly than less trustworthy employees.

Research

Employers often seek out employees who are capable of effectively researching. Because every minute counts, employers prize those who make the most of their time by analyzing problems and researching solutions. Employers want to hire someone they know can independently explore the possibilities and quickly find creative solutions.

Team Work

If your resume says you work well with others you probably understand the importance of team work. The ability to get along with co-workers and being able to take instructions are key to being a good team player. No employer wants to hire someone who cannot get along with others.

Initiative

Being a self-starter is important in the workplace. Those who not only understand their job, but work independently of instruction are sought-after job candidates. Companies often replace employees who don't take the initiative to get the job done with those who can.

Work Ethic

Job seekers not prepared to give their all need not apply. Employers are searching for people with dedication and a good work ethic. This means showing up on time, doing the job to the best of your ability and expanding your productivity.

Willingness to Learn

Employees who are willing to learn grow with expanding companies. In a world where technological demands and business strategies are highly dynamic, enthusiasm and a positive attitude toward the challenge of learning are important traits.

Tags: along with, hire someone, make good, that employers, with others, your resume

Breast Cancer Recovery Foundation

The Breast Cancer Recovery Foundation is an organization geared toward helping women triumph over breast cancer. Operating under the belief that women diagnosed with breast cancer face special challenges, the foundation offers a combination of wellness retreats, educational events, fundraising efforts and physical fitness opportunities to help them. Established by a breast cancer survivor, the foundation relies on women who have experienced breast cancer to facilitate workshops and support groups for those who have recently received a diagnosis.

History

The Breast Cancer Recovery Foundation began with the inception of its four-day wellness flagship program, Infinite Boundaries, for women who have experienced breast cancer. Ann Haney, a health administrator for the state of Wisconsin, started the program in 1996. Haney founded Infinite Boundaries upon noticing that women who experience breast cancer sometimes struggle to maintain their feminine sense of self. After she was diagnosed with breast cancer, Haney decided to start a special program to help women address issues relating to breast cancer. The Breast Cancer Recovery Foundation is the umbrella for the Infinite Boundaries program.

Retreats

The Infinite Boundaries program of the Breast Cancer Recovery Foundation involves four-day retreats for women experiencing breast cancer. The retreats offer support group discussions, opportunities for creative work and low-impact sports including yoga, kayaking, hiking and bicycling. The foundation also offers special retreats for women who have been diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, and for young women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. In all of the retreats, breast cancer survivors are on hand to help facilitate discussions with those undergoing the experience.

The wellness retreats offer support groups in which women can discuss fears and challenges, express themselves creatively through artwork and participate in low-impact fitness activities that encourage strength and personal growth.

Women experiencing breast cancer can get involved with the Breast Cancer Recovery Foundation by registering to attend a retreat. Infinite Boundaries programs fill up fast, so early registration is recommended. Women may register by phone or online. Fees cost around $300, including lodging, meals and activities.

Most retreats take place during the summertime, and are held at various locations around Wisconsin. Retreats are held at the Wild Eagle Resort in Eagle River, Wisconsin; at Bjorklunden in Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin and at the Sundra Inn & Spa in the Wisconsin Dells in Wisconsin.

Wild Eagle Resort

4443 Chain O' Lakes Road

Eagle River, WI 54521

877-945-3965

wildeaglelodge.com

Bjorklunden

7590 Boynton Lane

Baileys Harbor, WI 54202

920-839-2216

lawrence.edu

Events

Every year, the Breast Cancer Recovery Foundation offers special events geared toward helping women prevail over challenges involving breast cancer. Party on the Lake is the foundation's primary annual fundraiser in Wisconsin in which women with breast cancer and the foundation's supporters gather together for a silent auction, music performances, meditation and candle-lighting ceremonies.

The Breast Cancer Recovery Foundation also sponsors a Yoga Heals fundraising event, where participants can take morning yoga classes in a scenic environment, share a light breakfast and learn about area yoga and wellness studios.

Previous events have included attending health fairs, wine and chocolate tastings and other fundraising events.

Funding

The Breast Cancer Recovery Foundation got its start in 1996 with major funding from Haney's then employer, Dean Health Plan. Other major funders include Affinity Health System, American Family Insurance and Bassett Foundation.

In 2007, the Breast Cancer Recovery Foundation received an endowment to commemorate its 10-year anniversary, facilitating the donation of sizable gifts. The Breast Cancer Recovery Endowment was created to continue Haney's legacy, and provide a place to consolidate gifts of cash, stock, real estate, bequests and other instruments, according to the Breast Cancer Recovery Foundation.

Supporters of the Breast Cancer Recovery Foundation can get involved by making a donation, attending fundraising events or sponsoring a fundraising event. Those donating more than $25,000 may have an endowment fund named after them. Individuals may also organize planned giving.

The foundation provides "Ambassador Kits" to guide those interested in sponsoring a fundraising event to contribute toward the Breast Cancer Recovery Endowment.

Retreat Research

The Breast Cancer Recovery Foundation conducts research on some of their efforts, including the wellness retreats, to confirm their effects. In preliminary findings, the retreats, which involved 109 participants, including 56 control individuals, were shown to improve feelings about body image and decrease feelings of anxiety.

Tags: Breast Cancer Recovery, Cancer Recovery, Cancer Recovery Foundation, Recovery Foundation, Infinite Boundaries, breast cancer

Ablation & Early Menopause

Endometrial ablation has not been linked to early or premature menopause. This procedure eliminates the uterine lining using a variety of methods including lasers, radio waves, microwaves and electricity. It is conducted to stop heavy, prolonged vaginal bleeding that sometimes occurs after childbirth or due to a condition known as endometriosis. The surgery usually leads to sterility but is used to prevent a hysterectomy, a procedure that removes the uterus.

Early and Premature Menopause

The medical profession defines early menopause as when it occurs before a woman turns 45. Premature menopause occurs when the process begins before a woman turns 40. According to the International Premature Ovarian Failure Association, between 1 and 4 percent of all females between 15 and 40 are affected by premature menopause.

Causes of Early and Premature Menopause

The causes of early and premature menopause have not been firmly established. Genetic conditions like Turner and Swyer syndromes along with enzyme defects, chemotherapy, autoimmune diseases, thyroid problems, diabetes, anemia, viral infection and more can all lead to premature ovarian failure.

Endometrial Ablation

Endometrial ablation does cause sterility, but it does not cause the symptoms of menopause. The procedure affects only the uterine lining, but menopause is caused by a depletion of eggs stored in the ovaries either due to natural processes or some sort of dysfunction. Ablation functions by causing scarring on the uterine lining, which prevents further bleeding. The sterility that follows the ablation procedure is caused by the destruction of the uterine lining, which makes the normal implantation of eggs impossible. The procedure can be performed under either local or general anesthesia.

Recovery From Endometrial Ablation

Recovery from endometrial ablation usually takes between four days and two weeks, and there are few secondary complications to be concerned with. Side effects immediately following the surgery can include cramping, headaches, discharge and vaginal bleeding. While it does cause sterility, it does not cause menopause or the secondary side effects of that condition. According to an entry in the Fifth Edition of "Comprehensive Gynecology," about half of all women who undergo endometrial ablation will stop having periods, which may seem like menopause.

Alternatives to Endometrial Ablation

If endometrial ablation is not feasible, a hysterectomy can treat similar conditions. This involves the removal of the uterus and in many situations the cervix, fallopian tubes and ovaries. This surgery is far more invasive than ablation and has a total recovery time of between one and two months. There are also drug treatments available that can lessen or stop vaginal bleeding without surgery.

Tags: does cause, uterine lining, endometrial ablation, vaginal bleeding, before woman, before woman turns, cause sterility