Difference Between Polypropylene Vs Acetal Fittings

Acetal and polypropylene are types of plastic.

Acetal and polypropylene are two types of plastic. While polypropylene is less expensive and more resistant to moisture than acetal, acetal has greater strength and heat resistance. Both types of plastic are appropriate for different kinds of fittings.

Acetal

Acetal is difficult to break and is resistant to heat, chemicals and everyday wear. However, its durability comes with a high price tag, and its restricted processing makes it more difficult to obtain than other plastics.

Polypropylene

Polypropylene is a common type of plastic that's best known among consumers for its use in food storage containers. It resists chemicals, heat and cold; absorbs very little moisture; and is relatively inexpensive and easy to purchase.

Comparison

Acetal absorbs water more rapidly than polypropylene, which may make it less appropriate for plumbing fittings. However, it has more than double the tensile, flexural and compressive strength of polypropylene, making it better for fittings in particularly high-stress environments. Furthermore, while polypropylene is only safe at 180 degrees Fahrenheit or less, acetal's melting point is 347 degrees Fahrenheit. These benefits may make acetal worth the extra cost and may even balance out the water absorption issue for some users.

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Recovery From Prostate Surgery

Prostate surgery is the recommended treatment for an enlarged or diseased prostate. The surgery is chosen will depend on the size of the prostate and the amount of blockage that is impeding urine flow. An open prostatectomy removes the entire organ and is very invasive. Laser surgery removes the tissue that is causing the blockage and allows the patient to recover more quickly, and with less pain and discomfort.

Laser Prostate Surgery Recovery

Laser prostate surgery can be done on an outpatient basis or might require only one night in the hospital. Plan to take about two weeks off from work for this type of procedure. You might or might not have a catheter for urination after the procedure. The swelling that occurs on the urethra may cause a blockage.

Drink plenty of water after surgery to flush the bladder. You will notice blood in your urine during the first few days or weeks after the surgery.

Discuss medications with your doctor. There might be a restriction on blood thinners after surgery. Get the doctor's OK before resuming that type of medication.

Do not engage in strenuous activity or sex soon after laser prostate surgery. Patients usually have a one- or two-week restriction on such activity.

Open Prostatectomy Recovery

The recovery time is longer for an open prostatectomy than for a laser procedure. Immediately after prostate surgery, you will have a catheter and drainage tubes.

You should be able to get up and walk around the day after the surgery. The doctor will encourage this movement to help with recovery.

You will be discharged from the hospital within two or three days after an open prostatectomy. Watch for signs of infection, such as swelling and redness, at the incision site. Report any excessive pain to your doctor immediately.

You will not be able to return to your normal activities for four to six weeks after an open procedure. Sexual activity will have to wait for six to eight weeks after an open prostatectomy.

Long-Term Recovery

Report any problems with urination after the surgery. The procedure should have improved your condition and removed the cause of urinary problems. Some men notice that the symptoms that they had before the surgery get worse for a short period after recovery, and then improve.

Discuss any concerns you have after prostate surgery. Watch for returning symptoms after laser prostate surgery. In a small amount of cases, the tissue grows back.

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Elgibility Requirements For Tenncare In Tennessee

Tenncare provides prenatal services to pregnant women.

TennCare is the State of Tennessee's Medicaid program. Medicaid is a government subsidized health care program for low-income residents and their families. TennCare was established in 1994, and provides health care for more than 1 million Tennessee residents. Because the TennCare program pays for a variety of health care services and benefits, recipients must meet certain eligibility requirements to qualify.

Description

According to the Tennessee Government, TennCare is mostly for low-income children, parents, pregnant women and elderly and disabled adults. TennCare provides "managed care" services to beneficiaries, meaning all TennCare recipients receive health coverage through a Managed Care Organization. Behavioral and mental health, as well as long-term care services, are also provided through TennCare. Applicants are enrolled through their local Tennessee Department of Health and Human Services. Enrollees are evaluated by DHS staff and are subject to telephone or in-person interviews to determine eligibility. Once qualified, enrollees are free to choose one of two Managed Care Organizations in their local region.

Medicaid Eligibility

To be eligible for TennCare Medicaid, you must belong to one of several qualified groups. TennCare Medicaid covers children under age 21; pregnant women; caretakers of an eligible minor child; physically or mentally disabled persons; women with breast or cervical cancer; and people who qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). People who belong to these groups must meet income eligibility requirements. Each group has different income limits, as well as limits to the amount of resources available to the beneficiary.

Medical Eligibility

Some TennCare beneficiaries must be "medically eligible" to receive benefits. To qualify as medically eligible, the beneficiary must be under the age of 19 with a family income that is below 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Further, the beneficiary cannot have access to other health insurance through an employer or a parent's employer. Medically eligible TennCare recipients qualify for TennCare Standard, which is slightly different from TennCare Medicaid. TennCare Standard is for beneficiaries who were previously enrolled in Medicaid but no longer qualify. TennCare Standard provides coverage for beneficiaries with a health condition that makes them uninsurable in the private health market.

Spend Down Eligibility

TennCare Standard Spend Down is for adults who do not necessarily fit into other Medicaid categories, such as pregnant women or medically needy young adults. Qualification is based on income and the amount of medical bills the recipient has. Spend Down beneficiaries must be at least age 65, blind or disabled. Spend Down recipients may also be the caretaker of a minor child, or have a health or mental health problem that is expected to last longer than 30 days.

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Medicaid Options In Florida

Healthcare is an integral component in society.

Medicaid Options is the division of the State of Florida Medicaid program that offers enrollment services for the state's managed care programs. The program works directly with qualified beneficiaries who are approved through the Florida Department of Children and Families or the Social Security Administration. Medicaid is generally available to low-income families, children of low-income families, pregnant women, elderly individuals, people who are disabled and for noncitizens as emergency assistance. Depending on the area of residence, the recipient is advised to choose from either a health maintenance organization (HMO), MediPass or provider service network (PSN) plan.

Medicaid Reform HMO or PSN

Medicaid Reform offers an HMO or PSN to residents who reside in Broward, Duval, Baker, Clay and Nassau counties. The companies that offer services include Buena Vista Medicaid, Humana Family, Jackson Memorial Health Plan, Molina Healthcare, Personal Health Plan, Preferred Medical Plan and Sunshine State Health. Individuals are required to choose a primary care physician (PCP) under both plans, who will be the first doctor seen when medical attention is required on a nonemergency basis. The plans cover physician visits, hospital inpatient care, emergency care, transplant services, outpatient surgery, laboratory and radiologic services, home health care and prescription drugs. This list is not inclusive of all the benefits available under this plan; for further information, contact the health plan directly.

HMO Options

In all other counties not covered by the Medicaid Reform program, the HMO options available for medical coverage for the qualified beneficiary include Amerigroup, Citrus Health Care, Freedom Health, Healthease and Staywell Health Plan. The HMO program for these health plans offer all basic medical services, such as physician visits, emergency care, inpatient care, outpatient services and prescription drug coverage. The benefits will vary according to the health plan.

MediPass

Starting in 1991, the Medicaid Provider Access System (MediPass) was established as a primary case management program developed by Florida Medicaid as an option for Medicaid recipients. This program was established to monitor medical services to prevent inappropriate medical testing and procedures. As with the HMO and PSN programs, the MediPass program is similar in the benefits offered and the patient being established with a PCP. One of the differences with this program is that the individual is charged a $2 monthly case management fee, which is always subject to change. This program also offers a disease management program especially focused on high-risk patients who suffer with heart conditions, diabetes, asthma and various other chronic diseases. This program is focused on providing nurse care management and enhancing the patient's quality of life.

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Advantages & Disadvantages Of Lefthanded People

Left-handed people have to move their hands over their writing.

Though left-handed people make up a smaller portion of the population, they are not short of advantages or disadvantages. According to ABC News, some of those disadvantages can be health related, but advantages can outweigh some of those disadvantages.

Advantage: Sports

Most people involved in sports are right-handed. By being left-handed, players can pose an advantage because their competitors aren't as used to playing left-handed players. In baseball, for example, a left-handed pitcher is already facing first base. That means he can keep an eye on the batter as well as the runner. This often makes it harder for a runner to steal.

Advantage: Higher IQ

A 2000 study by Dr. Alan Searleman of St. Lawrence University in New York found that more left-handed people had an IQ averaging over 140 than right-handed people. Some famous left-handers known for their intellect were Albert Einstein and Benjamin Franklin.

Disadvantage: Writing

In English writing and several other languages, writing is done from left to right. Though this is a common practice, it benefits right-handed people, whose hand doesn't run across what they write because their hand moves in front of the text. A left-handed person may smudge what he writes because his hand trails behind the text he writes.

Disadvantage: Power Tools and Machinery

Power tools and machinery are built for right-handed people, not left-handed ones. Equipment such as power saws, drills and scissors are naturally made for right-handers. It's important to read the user's guide on operate a piece of machinery if you are not right-handed, or buy items that are made for left-handed users.

Disadvantages: Playing Cards

In poker games and other card games that involve several cards in a player's hand at once, the way a left-handed person fans her cards to see them hides the numbers and suits. This means left-handed players have to read their numbers and suits upside down or flip their playing cards.

Disadvantages: School Desks

School desks that have the desk attached to the chair are made for right-handed people. That means the desk runs along the right side of the person sitting in it so that he can use his right hand to write notes or do work. Left-handed people have to work with no desk support on their left arm.

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The Definition Of A Group Health Plan

Group health plans offer health care options for employees. Employer group health plans are generally extended to full time employees and their dependents. When administering group health plans, employers are required to comply with all federal and state group health plan law, including the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act.

Definition of Group Health Plan

According the the Department of Labor, a group health plans is a welfare benefit plan for employees maintained or put in place by an employer or an employee group, like a union. A group health care plan gives employees and their dependents medical care benefits through reimbursement or insurance. In order to be eligible to participate in group health insurance, companies may be required to have a certain number of employees, such as more than 50. Businesses sometimes form a consortium in order to have enough employees enrolled to qualify for a group plan.

Employee Retirement Income Security Act

Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) is a federal law that requires health plans to provide minimum standards for employees. For example, if a health care plan is in place, the plan administrator must give information to participants about funding and plan features. ERISA requires those parties who manage financial responsibilities for the plan to adhere to fiduciary guidelines and gives plan participants the right to sue plan administrators for breach of fiduciary duty or for benefits.

ERISA Termination Requirements

In addition to laying down requirements for the establishment and administration of health care plans, ERISA also has requirements for the termination of benefits. In order to amend or terminate a health care plan, employers must notify plan beneficiaries in writing about the amendment. The written notice must be executed by an authorized party, such as a plan administrator, and the language of the notice must make it clear to the beneficiary what the amendment entails.

Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act

Employer health care plans must also comply with the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA), which extends health care benefits for employees after they leave employment for a qualified reason, though minus the employer subsidy. In general, qualified reasons are being laid off, quitting, or being terminated from a job for anything other than gross misconduct. Employees can in many cases stay under the employer administered health care plan for up to 18 months after leaving their jobs.

Tags: health care, health plans, care plan, health care plan, Budget Reconciliation, Consolidated Omnibus

Hipaa Network Requirements

HIPAA network requirements provide a high level of security for confidential patient information.

Within the healthcare field, the Health Insurance Portability Act of 1996, or HIPAA, enforces patient privacy rules by requiring organizations to protect patient health records. Under HIPAA, health-related organizations must meet certain technology requirements in terms of how their computer networks operate. These network requirements provide guidelines for securing patient information and monitoring user activity within the system.

Network Security Requirements

Network security requirements under HIPAA require organizations to employ data encryption, firewall protection and email protection as a means of protecting confidential patient information, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. In 2009, the U.S. government enacted a second piece of legislation called the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act, or HITECH Act. Under the HITECH Act, organizations are advised to implement data encryption technology within their system networks. These measures attempt to prevent unauthorized people from accessing patient information in the event of a system security breach. Firewall protection requirements are designed to prevent the likelihood of a system security breach. Email security requirements, though partially handled by a reliable firewall system, can further be secured through encryption software.

Authentication and Access Requirements

The ongoing exchange of patient information between health organizations, insurance providers and referral agencies exposes patient information to a series of users and facilities. To prevent unauthorized access, network system requirements under HIPAA mandate the use of a medical billing code system that provides a standardized method for recording services rendered and transacting patient billing information between health-related organizations and third-party payers, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Organizations handling patient information also are required to maintain updated patient authorization forms that permit organizations to store, record and transmit patient information. In terms of patients being able to gain access to their own records, HIPAA requires organizations to take measures to ensure patient information is available in the event of a fire or a system failure. Compliance with this provision requires organizations to have a reliable backup system capable of storing patient information and/or recovering lost data.

Auditing Requirements

Under HIPAA, auditing requirements refer to an organization's ability to monitor how authorized personnel are accessing patient records, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. To do this, a system network must be able to assign unique user names and passwords and assign user access levels for everyone who accesses the system. User access levels limit the types of information a particular user can view and can restrict user access to a particular set or department of patients. Auditing requirements also include tracking provisions that show who accessed a particular record, what changes were made and what the record looked like before any changes were made. In effect, HIPAA sets required guidelines for a system network, allowing organizations to customize these requirements according to how their operations are structured.

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Rural Health Care Grants

Health care grants can improve medical care in rural areas.

Health care costs can be strain on any budget, but when you live in the country your health care choices are even more limited. CNN says that in 2010, there were 66 million people in rural areas who did not have adequate health care. Rural Americans are often not able to find a local doctor and the nearest hospitals may be miles away. Rural areas also have trouble supporting the same level of quality health care enjoyed by urban Americans. The Federal government has made a commitment to increasing quality health care in rural areas and offers grants to fund new rural health projects.

Flex Rural Veterans Health Access Program

The Flex Rural Veterans Health Access Program offered $900,000 in 2010 to fund programs to increase the delivery of mental health and other health care to veterans of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom who have returned from war and are now living in rural areas. They fund small rural hospitals that can provide direct care to veterans and make appropriate referrals to Veterans Administration hospitals as needed.

Mississippi Delta Health Collaborative

The Centers for Disease Control had $20 million available in 2010 for rural hospitals, community centers and faith-based agencies to create a program to address the high incidence of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, tobacco and nutrition problems in the Mississippi Delta area. The grant is available to local health care agencies, hospitals and other community nonprofits.

Frontier Community Health Integration Demonstration Program

This grant for $750,000 was available in 2010 to any public or nonprofit agency located in a rural area. The Rural Health Research Center, which awards the grant, was looking for an agency to develop exemplary programs that work with local health care providers to increase access to acute and extended care. They will also develop programs to improve the regulatory and financial pressures faced by Medicare and Medicaid programs in rural areas.

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Surgical Tech Salaries In New Jersey

As of 2008, approximately 1,550 people in New Jersey worked as surgical technologists or scrub technicians, according to the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development. At that time, the demand for surgical techs in New Jersey was expected to increase by nearly 13 percent from 2008 through 2018, creating around 200 jobs, according to the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development. A surgical technician's salary varies based upon her location in the state.

Statewide

Surgical techs in New Jersey earned an average of $21.24 per hour and $44,180 per year as of 2009, according to the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development. The lowest-paid 25 percent of scrub technicians in the state earned wages of $18.20 hourly and $37,850 annually or less. The highest-paid fourth surgical techs in New Jersey received wages of $24.25 per hour and $50,470 per year or more.

Central New Jersey

Burlington, Camden and Gloucester Counties were the lowest-paying areas for surgical technologists to work in New Jersey as of 2009, according to the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development. Salaries in the counties averaged $42,180 per year, approximately 5 percent below the statewide mean rate of pay. In Middlesex, Monmouth, Somerset and Ocean counties, surgical techs received an average of $42,400 annually. Those working in Mercer County made an average of $42,490 per year, the highest wages in central New Jersey.

Remainder of the State

Surgical techs in Bergen, Hudson and Passaic Counties enjoyed the highest average annual wages in all of New Jersey as of 2009, according to the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development. Wages in the counties averaged $47,830 per year, around 8 percent above the statewide average. Technologists working in Essex, Morris, Hunterdon, Sussex and Union Counties received an average of $44,150, the second-highest wages statewide. In Atlantic County, scrub technicians earned an average of $43,740 annually.

Education

As of April 2011, six schools on seven campuses in New Jersey carried accreditation from the Commission on the Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. Five of these schools granted diplomas and certificates: Atlantic Cape Community College in Mays Landing, Bergen Community College in Paramus, Sanford Brown Institute in Iselin, Sussex County Community College in Newton and Dover Business College in Clinton and Dover. The program at Eastwick College in Ramsey culminates in an associate degree.

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Maternity Care Health Insurance

Maternity insurance can bring out-of pocket costs to as little as $500.

According to costhelper.com, the cost of having a baby without complications is between $9,000 and $17,000. Maternity health insurance can curb this cost and bring the out-of-pocket costs of the mother to a much more manageable number. Coverage typically provides benefits for all aspects of a pregnancy and birth, but may be difficult to acquire if a woman is already pregnant. However, in 2014, the government will implement laws set forth in the Affordable Care Act to help regulate maternity insurance and make it more affordable and accessible for women.

Types and Coverage

Most comprehensive maternity health insurance plans cover prenatal health care, including all office visits with an obstetrician or midwife leading up until birth. Many health plans also provide coverage for standard prenatal sonograms, as well as lab work such as blood glucose screenings for gestational diabetes, strep B culture tests and routine sexually transmitted disease screenings. Additionally, maternity insurance usually covers hospital and physician costs for both vaginal and cesarean section births, as well as medications and anesthesia expenses. Less expensive indemnity plans take a different approach, offering a designated dollar amount as a benefit toward pregnancy-related expenses. All remaining expenses are left to the policyholder to pay.

Sources

Uninsured women who need maternity insurance may have limited options. Most major employers provide health insurance with optional maternity riders. Coverage from employers is usually comprehensive, and often leaves the policyholder with very low out of pocket costs. However, anyone that doesn't have access to employer-provided health insurance may have difficulty finding a private insurer that offers maternity coverage. Low-income women may find a break if they qualify for government-sponsored Medicaid.

Pre-Existing Conditions

For most health insurance plans, pregnancies are considered pre-existing conditions. This means that anyone who acquires health insurance after becoming pregnant may have to submit to a waiting period before benefits kick in. In some cases, this could mean that no benefits will be paid for an existing pregnancy. Women covered under Medicaid do not have to wait to receive benefits, and can apply for coverage at any point in their pregnancy.

Affordable Care Act

In 2010, Congress passed and President Obama signed the Affordable Care Act. Under the new law and beginning in 2014, all new health insurance plans must provide standard maternity care benefits to all women on all policies. This coverage does not come in the form of a maternity rider, but instead must be included in the monthly premiums of all health insurance plans. Additionally, pregnant women will no longer be denied health coverage for pre-existing pregnancies and other pre-existing conditions.

Tags: health insurance, health insurance plans, insurance plans, Affordable Care, maternity insurance, health insurance, insurance have

Breast Augmentation Pros & Cons

There are benefits and drawbacks of breast augmentation surgery. It could be wonderful as a corrective procedure or to give a woman a fuller appearance. However, it is important to do research on the subject so you understand some of the possible repercussions to the surgery.

Symmetry and Fullness

Breast augmentation surgery is effective in creating body symmetry in women who feel self-conscious about their natural breasts. Breast implants usually create a fuller, perkier look. The surgery can make women feel more comfortable in their clothes and more confident.

Self-Image

While breast augmentation can be a boost to a woman's ego, it can have the opposite effect as well. It is important to have a healthy self-image when going into any cosmetic surgery. Many times, women are not satisfied with the end result, simply because their expectations were too high. If a woman goes into the surgery with realistic goals, the outcome will be much healthier for the individual.

Reconstructive Benefits

After a mastectomy, reconstructive surgery is the last step in the physical healing process. Women who have gone through extensive surgery and chemotherapy can now return to their womanly bodies after having the trauma of surgery and breast removal. This not only creates a more natural appearance, but with helps with self-esteem and image.

Risks of Surgery

Breast augmentation surgery, like any other surgery, has risks, such as complications with anesthesia and infection shortly after the procedure. There are, however, some complications specific to breast augmentation. Implants can rupture, ripple and even harden because of scar tissue. In each case, the only solution is surgery to correct the issue. In cases in which an infection is present, the implant has to be removed until the infection is completely gone and then replaced months later with another surgery.

Pain of Surgery

Painful swelling is present after surgery. Patients get extremely tired after surgery and may need someone to help with day-to-day issues for about the first week. It takes months for breasts to reduce to their final size, and they will be sensitive until they do. Regular routines, such as strenuous exercise and lifting heavy objects, must be avoided to allow the body to heal without injury.

Financial Strain

Breast augmentation, except sometimes under reconstructive surgery, is not covered by insurance and can cost several thousands of dollars. In addition, if complications arise, additional surgeries may be needed. Add in doctor visits, and this can add up to a hefty bill. Remember that anytime an implant is placed inside the body, it likely will have to be replaced at some point, so another surgery is also on the radar.

Tags: augmentation surgery, after surgery, another surgery, Breast augmentation, breast augmentation, Breast augmentation surgery, reconstructive surgery

Diet For People After Prostate Cancer Surgery

Prostate cancer is a common form of cancer for men. Surgery removes the prostate along with the cancer in the area. Recovery is important in the healing process. Read on to find out about diets after prostate cancer surgery.

After the Surgery

Shortly after having the surgery, you will most likely be put on a liquid diet, excluding solid foods. You will slowly progress from clear liquids to those that have a bit of solidness to them. The next step would be graduating to a soft diet with foods easy to chew such as oatmeal or mashed potatoes.

Once you have recovered from surgery, you will want to maintain a diet that includes a lot of fruits and vegetables.

Lycopene

Foods high in lycopene have been found to improve prostate health. Some foods containing lycopene are tomatoes, watermelon, carrots, asparagus, salsa, and grapefruit. Also choose a variety of fruits and vegetables in order to vary your diet.

Selenium

Foods high in selenium are also beneficial to the body. Only a small amount of this mineral is needed a day, so an example would be a 3-ounce serving of tuna. Other foods high in selenium are nuts, oysters, and shrimp.

More Fiber, Less Fat

You want to make sure to add more fiber to your diet by eating more whole grain foods. Try eating bran muffins, cereal, whole wheat bread, and prunes in order to get the fiber you need.

Avoiding fatty foods is also a good idea after your surgery. You don't want to eat foods like fried chicken, french fries, or fried fish.

Try eating more tomatoes, broccoli, and cauliflower as well as other foods that contain Vitamin E.

Beverages

Avoid or decrease drinking alcohol or beer. Coffee consumption should also be lessened during this time. Drink plenty of water and green tea.

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Exercises For Post Mastectomy

A mastectomy is a major surgical procedure and recovery from this traumatic event can be both extensive and painful. Participation in an exercise program can help reduce recovery time; helping you to achieve a full range of motion in your arms and shoulders while facilitating the healing process. Additionally, exercise can help to elevate mood, ease anxiety and improve your overall health. The exercises below are designed to improve your range of motion and flexibility. Do not attempt any weight bearing tasks until the arm on the operated side and the arm on the non-operated side function equally well.

Rolls

Stand or sit and look straight ahead. Lift your chin, focusing your eyes on an object directly in front of you. Exhale and relax your shoulders. Keep your neck and spine as straight as possible. Bend your elbows slightly and roll your shoulders forward, as if trying to trace a large circle. Repeat this movement up to eight times and then reverse the motion, rolling your shoulders backwards. For the best results, try to perform this exercise three to five times per day.

Shrugs

Once you can easily and comfortably perform shoulder rolls, move on to shrugs. This exercise is exactly what the name implies, a shrug of the shoulders. However, in order to improve the flexibility of the joint, the motion is exaggerated slightly. To perform a shrug, take a deep breath and draw your shoulders towards your ears. Bring them up as high as you comfortably can. Hold this position and silently count to eight. Exhale and slowly lower your shoulders. Repeat this exercise 10 times at least two times each day.

Lifts

If you have had reconstructive surgery, it is important to avoid raising your arms above your head until the implant has properly settled into position. With that in mind, these lifts do not require you to raise your arms above shoulder height, though you can extend your range to include overhead lifting when you feel well enough. To begin, grab a small towel and hold one end in each hand, pulling it tightly. Keep the towel taut as you raise your arms directly in front of you, as high as you comfortably can. Hold this position for eight seconds and then lower your arms. Repeat this movement 10 times. Then swing your arms to the right, holding for eight seconds, and then to the left. Repeat the side lifts 10 times as well.

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Questions Patients Should Ask About Colon Cancer

In the operating room.

Being diagnosed with colon cancer can be a very frightening and uncertain experience for patients. There are many aspects to consider, including staging and treatment options, which can seem overwhelming at first. Colon cancer patients should become as informed as possible about their disease, asking their doctors questions to help take some of the fear and confusion out of the process.

Diagnosis Questions

Ask your doctor about the staging--if the cancer has spread or is isolated to a small area, and also where the cancer is located. Ask what your chances are for for a recovery from this particular stage and type of cancer and your long-term prognosis. Also, you're within your rights as a patient to inquire about the doctor's experience and, if he's going to be the one operating, how many times he's successfully performed the procedure and whether he's board certified. Ask if you need to get a second opinion.

Surgery Questions

Inquire about your treatment options. Will your cancer require surgery and, if so, what will be removed: a small re-sectioning of the colon, removal of the colon itself or the rectum and any lymph nodes? How many specialists will be involved, who are the members of your team and how can you contact them with questions? Is a colostomy (an opening with an external bag for fecal matter) going to be required and is it temporary or permanent? Also inquire about the length of your hospital stay, how much pain you might experience and what complications might occur, such as infections or scarring. You can also check to see if blood transfusions will be required and whether or not your family members can donate blood before surgery. Find out how long after surgery your doctor will have results and a firm diagnosis.

Post-Surgical Treatment Questions

Inquire about the type of post-surgical treatments that will be required--radiation, chemotherapy or both, and why they're recommended. Ask how long the treatments will last and how often you have to get them. Are there any side effects and how can you minimize those? Check if there are any clinical trials you might want to be part of.

Follow-Up Questions

Ask about how often re-screening will be required to see if the colon cancer has returned and if there are any follow-up tests, as well as who the follow-up doctor(s) will be. Ask what recovery will involve and how long it will take for you to resume all of your normal activities, or if you'll need any special assistance. See if there are any ways you can help prevent the cancer from returning and if there are any support groups available. Ask if your relatives are at a higher risk for this disease and if they should be tested, as well.

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Types Of Health Insurance In The United States

In the United States, the type of health care available falls into two categories: a fee-for-service plan or a managed care plan. Fee-for-service plans have been around the longest and allow for more freedom of choice when it comes to doctors and hospitals. Managed care plans require an insured person to become part of a health care organization that imposes certain restrictions in an effort to minimize costs.

Indemnity Plans

An indemnity plan, also known as a fee-for-service plan, is the most traditional form of health insurance. With an indemnity plan, the insured is permitted to see any doctor he chooses, and is not restricted by a network when selecting a specialist. The insured typically pays for the service when it is rendered, then seeks reimbursement from the insurer.

Managed Care

Managed care plans limit the insured to a specific network for coverage. These plans attempt to reduce health care costs by restricting what will be covered and in what amount. In many cases, pre-approval for certain medical procedures or for being admitted to a hospital is required. In the United States, there are three basic types of managed care plans.

HMO

A Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) is one type of managed care plan. An HMO is characterized by the payment of a monthly premium in exchange for comprehensive coverage that includes doctor visits hospital stays and surgery. They typically require no claim forms. A large emphasis is placed on preventive care to keep the costs of health coverage down.

POS

Point of Service Plans (POS) are an offshoot of an HMO. But unlike the HMO, the POS allows more leeway regarding choosing a doctor outside the network, although the insured would most likely have to pay a hefty deductible and/or co-payment. When choosing a provider from inside the network, the insured is typically not required to pay a deductible.

PPO

A Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) is a specific group of doctors and hospitals that band together to form an association. Prices for each service are predetermined and will not change. In some ways, it resembles a fee-for-service plan because the insured will generally pay for the service upfront, then be reimbursed by the insurance carrier. Like an HMO, there is little or no paperwork to complete.

Tags: care plans, fee-for-service plan, health care, managed care, United States, care plan

About Xray Techs

In studying the variety of fields associated with X-ray technicians, you will find a diverse profession entailing several options in relative working environments. X-ray technicians use radiography to determine and diagnose varied conditions. They work in a variety of different departments and use diverse methods to accomplish identifying specific situations.

The Facts

X-ray technicians are taught in the field of health care. Receiving specific training in manipulation of x-ray equipment, gives them the ability to take pictures of the inside of the body. These pictures are called radiographs. With the pictures, x-ray technicians can visualize and diagnose injuries, diseases, and conditions, playing a major role in the patient's recovery. An x-ray technician has the choice of a variety of fields. Choosing a field to work in will be mostly related to the interests of the specific technician.

Type

Each x-ray technician has the choice of which field of study they would prefer. Jobs in this occupation include working in doctor offices, dental offices, hospitals, clinics, and in homes of people recovering from illness. While working in doctor's offices, hospitals and clinics, technicians x-ray various parts of a patient's body for diagnosing illnesses or injury. In a dental office, x-ray technicians photograph pictures of the teeth and gums to help dentists identify the need for repair.

Time Frame

In working toward completing certification towards becoming an x-ray technician, you will be trained in the separate, specific fields of the career application. A formal education in the radiology field ranges from one to four years. You can choose to strive towards a certificate, an associate degree or a bachelor's degree. The more years you commit to study, you will have more career options available to choose from including training in MRIs, Sonograms and CAT scans.

Invented

Wilhelm Roentgen was responsible for discovering the radiation particles used in x-rays. While experimenting on the effects of cathode rays, he noticed that when current was passed through, rays were given off that passed through other materials. These rays were a new form of radiation to study. After spending two months investigating the new form of radiation, Wilhelm presented his findings to the University Physical-Medical Society, sharing his recent discovery. Roentgen's discovery eventually led to a new field of medical research, allowing doctors to view the inside of the human body.

Risk Factors

Though x-ray technicians have a rewarding career helping patients achieve wellness through diagnosis, it does not come without risks. X-rays are associated with the formation of certain cancers. There are safety protocols to protect x-ray technicians from the harmful effects of the radiation. The protocols include covering the specific parts of the body that are vulnerable to the radiations effects, with lead. Technicians also stand behind a lead wall for protection from the rays. X-ray technicians wear a badge that measures the levels of radiation in the area, and also keep a detailed list of cumulative exposure.

Tags: x-ray technician, x-ray technicians, associated with, doctor offices, form radiation, hospitals clinics, offices hospitals

Sensing Cancer With Dogs

Dogs can smell cancer on patients' breath, according to studies.

Dogs have an uncanny ability to smell cancer on afflicted people's breath, according to researchers at the Pine Street Foundation, a cancer research organization in San Anselmo, California. As of 2010, dogs have successfully identified skin, bladder, lung and breast cancer by scent alone. Further study is needed, but foundations like Pine Street believe dogs could prove instrumental in the detection and treatment process of cancer patients.

Pine Street Foundation Study

In 2006, the Pine Street Foundation began to publish the results of its study confirming minimally trained dogs could detect lung and breast cancer with high levels of accuracy merely by smelling a patient's breath, even in very early stages of the disease. A handful of labrador retrievers and Portuguese water dogs participated in a few weeks of basic training using food reward techniques. At the conclusion of training, the dogs were able to accurately identify 99 percent of lung cancer patients and 88 percent of breast cancer patients via a double-blind study using breath samples captured in test tubes.

In 2004, the Florida State University Sensory Research Institute in Tallahassee conducted similar studies confirming dogs could smell melanomas, or skin cancers.

Chemicals in Cancer

Cancer cells produce metabolic wastes that differ from those of normal cells, according to Nicholas Broffman, executive director of the Pine Street Foundation. Chemicals such as alkanes and benzene derivatives are emitted in the breath of cancer patients, which the dogs can sense in parts per trillion.

Canine Sense of Smell

A dog's sense of smell is 10,000 to 100,000 times better than humans, according to James Walker, the director of the Sensory Research Institute at Florida State University in Tallahassee. No one is sure exactly why this is so, but what is known is that more of the canine brain is dedicated to smell than is the human brain. There is also a greater convergence of neurons from the nose to the brain, Walker said. In the Pine Street study, results proved it didn't matter what dog smelled which sample, or at what stage the cancer was; the same level of accuracy was achieved.

Dog Noses versus Technology

"The dog's brain and nose hardware is currently the most sophisticated odor detection device on the planet," said Michael McCulloch, the leader of the Pine Street study.

While scientists agree that diagnoses must be confirmed with traditional tests, no piece of technology or equipment, as of 2010, can match the dog's ability to sense cancer so accurately in such a non-invasive and quick way.

Application

McCulloch and others hope to see dogs trained to smell out cancers, like those in the Pine Street study, in medical settings around the world. Because early detection greatly increases survival rates, and because canines can sense cancer quickly even in its early stages with no harm to the patient, research leaders like McCulloch believe these animals could prove instrumental in detecting, treating and saving cancer patients' lives. Dogs, however, are not currently widely used for this purpose as of 2010.

Tags: Pine Street, cancer patients, Pine Street Foundation, Street Foundation, breast cancer, dogs could

Breast Cancer Stages & Statistics

Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast tissue begin to grow and divide without being under the control of the body. Breast cancer can be graded based on size, location, spread, and even features of the cells themselves. While breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women, not all people who contract breast cancer will die from it. Survival varies depending on the type of tumor that arises.

What Is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer begins in the cells of the breast. The cells mutate and grow uncontrollably, resulting in the formation of a tumor.

Staging Based on Tumor Location

One method of staging breast cancer is to classify it based on how localized the tumor is. This classification grades tumors based on size as well as the extent to which they have spread to the lymph nodes.

Staging Based on Cell Appearance

Breast cancer can also be staged based on how closely the cells resemble normal breast tissue. The more "normal" the cells look, the better the prognosis.

Staging Based on Response to Hormones

Breast cancer cells can also be staged with respect to whether they still respond to certain sex hormones. Tumors that are unresponsive to hormones are considered more serious.

Breast Cancer Statistics

Approximately one in eight U.S. women will develop breast cancer, and roughly one in 33 women will die from breast cancer.

Tags: Breast cancer, Staging Based, also staged, based size, breast cancer, Breast Cancer

Health Insurance Requirements For Employers

Employees are drawn to competitive salaries and health benefits.

Other than the regulations imposed by states like Massachusetts, most employers are not required by law to offer health insurance benefits to employees. The majority of larger businesses do tend to offer health insurance plans in an effort to attract and retain quality employees. Once an employer chooses to offer a health insurance plan to employees, the employer then becomes bound by federal and state laws concerning health insurance regulations designed to protect an employee's rights.

Anti-Discrimination

Health insurance is designed to help cover health care costs.

Employers who offer health insurance to employees are required to offer the same level of coverage to all regular full-time employees without unlawful discrimination because of disability or economic status. An employer is forbidden to exclude an employee from a company insurance policy on the basis of developing health concerns with the employee or with the employee's family members. If an employee develops health problems that increase the cost of the health insurance premium, the employer is not allowed to discontinue enrollment in the company health benefits. Employers may not charge higher premiums to lower wage employees than higher paid employees, and insurance companies may deny coverage to an employer caught practicing discrimination amongst employees.

COBRA

Employees with health conditions may need COBRA.

COBRA is known as the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act. COBRA allows workers and their families to continue their health insurance coverage for a period of 12 to 18 months in the event of lost health insurance benefits resulting from involuntary job loss, reduction in the hours worked or job transition due to death or divorce. Employees have the right to continue their health insurance coverage if they decide to pay the full health insurance premium for uninterrupted coverage. Employers are required by law to notify employees of this right to continue benefit coverage in writing at the time of job resignation or termination, or within 10 days of the employee's last day of regular full-time work.

ERISA

Employees must be notified of health plan details in writing.

In 1974, a federal law called the Employee Retirement Income Security Act was passed and became known as ERISA. ERISA sets a standard for the proper handling of voluntarily established pension and health plans offered by employers. ERISA was designed to protect the rights of the employee participants in the plans and requires plan administrators to provide information about the plan features such as how the plan will be funded and managed, the fiduciary responsibilities of those in charge of asset management and the rights each employee has as an enrollee in the plan. ERISA also requires that employees be notified of eligibility standards of the plan in addition to claim procedures, participant rights and changes to the plan.

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The Average Radio Dj Salaries

The Average Radio DJ Salaries

A radio disc jockey plays music provided to him by the radio station programmer. DJs also comment on the music, and provide traffic and weather reports. They may interview guests, manage listener contests and take listener requests. Disc jockeys are required to follow a strict schedule of commercials, talk and music provided by management. Four factors greatly affecting a radio disc jockey's earnings are experience, location, gender and company size.

Salary

Total pay for radio disc jockeys ranges from $20,677 to $38,116 a year, according to November 2010 PayScale data. Bonuses and commissions form an important component of the overall pay package, adding anywhere from $1,196.53 to $15,750 in take home pay.

Experience

Experience has a major affect on the earnings radio disc jockeys can potentially receive. Radio disc jockeys with four years or less experience earn between $19,439 and $30,968, according to PayScale. Individuals with five to nine years of experience earn substantially more, in a range of $23,553 to $37,500. The earnings of a radio disc jockey with 10 to 19 years of experience is between $25,218 and $48,802 a year. With twenty years or more of experience, a disc jockey's earnings can range between $28,819 and $45,824.

Location

Radio stations that reach more people can afford to pay their DJs more. New York and California have large listener populations, and New York offers the highest potential earnings, in the range of $30,000 to $75,000, according to PayScale. DJs in California earn between $30,521 and $48,796. Pennsylvania, with its smaller audiences, has DJs earnings between $23,489 and $28,066 a year.

Gender

Male DJs earn more than female DJs in the radio broadcasting business, according to November 2010 PayScale data. While both men and women start out making about the same, men out earn women with years of experience at the high-end of the pay scale. Male disc jockeys earn between $24,012 and $41,474 a year, while female disc jockeys earn between $23,062 and $35,833 a year. The industry is dominated by men who outnumber women at 69 percent to 31 percent, according to PayScale.

Company Size

Radio disc jockeys who work for large companies earn more money. DJs working in corporations with 600 to 1,999 employees earn between $34,392 and $61,042 year. This is in contrast to earnings of those working for small companies with 10 to 49 employees, which ranges between $23,200 and $34,321.

Tags: between year, earn between, disc jockey, disc jockeys, according PayScale, earn between year, radio disc

Breast Cancer Awareness Grants

Breast cancer awareness grants can help save lives.

Cancer is a life-threatening disease that drives cells in the body to develop out of control and eventually develop into lumps or tumors. The disease can strike almost any part of the body, including the tissues in the breasts. According to the American Cancer Society, almost 25 percent of women who are diagnosed with cancer have breast cancer. With breast cancer being so prevalent, many organizations award grants to promote breast cancer awareness.

Avon Foundation Breast Care Fund

The Avon Foundation, a charity that was established in the 1950s to enhance the lives of women and their relatives, offers grants annually through the Avon Foundation Breast Care Fund. Through worldwide projects such as special events and product sales, the organization has awarded more than 800 grants since the early 1990s to promote breast cancer awareness. In 2009, the foundation distributed 143 grants totaling more than $6 million that allowed more than 15 million people to become more educated about breast cancer awareness.

The foundation, managed by educational organization Cicatelli Associates, focuses on providing financial assistance for under-served or uninsured women to receive a yearly breast examination and appropriate follow-up care. In addition, the foundation provides assistance to programs that educate senior citizens about Medicare coverage of breast-screening exams.

Cicatelli Associates

505 Eighth Ave.

New York, NY 10018-6505

212-594-7741

cicatelli.org

American Breast Cancer Foundation

The American Breast Cancer Foundation is a nonprofit organization that strives to offer early detection information and examination services to those who need it regardless of age or financial hardship. The foundation provides grants through its Key to Life Breast Cancer Screening Assistance Program. Through the program, men and women who may not be able to afford breast cancer screening receive financial assistance. Assistance is also given to people for diagnostic services, including mammograms, ultrasounds, emergency biopsies and medical consultations. In addition to prevention, the foundation also provides grants for patients who develop breast cancer. Assistance is provided for individuals needing chemotherapy or prescriptions when no other financial resources are available.

American Breast Cancer Foundation

1220 B E. Joppa Road, Suite 332

Baltimore, MD 21286

410-825-9388

abcf.org

Susan G. Komen for the Cure Affiliate Community Health Grants

Susan G. Komen for the Cure, the largest nonprofit organization for raising funds to combat breast cancer, has distributed more than $160 million since 2005 for affiliate community health grants. The organization takes an analytical approach to funding by working with local medical professionals and authorities in the community to carry out detailed community-needs evaluations. The appraisal from a community is then used to create local grant applications for affiliates throughout the country. The organization provides grants for innovative programs, including a mobile mammography van for communities.

Susan G. Komen for the Cure is also dedicated to providing financial assistance for education through its international community health grants program. The organization has teamed with local nonprofit agencies across the globe to employ programs promoting awareness and education about breast cancer as well as the importance of receiving quality health care. Since its inception, Susan G. Komen for the Cure has distributed more than $8 million to fund international community health initiatives.

Susan G. Komen for the Cure

5005 LBJ Freeway, Suite 250

Dallas, TX 75244

877-465-6636

5.komen.org

Tags: Komen Cure, more than, Susan Komen, Susan Komen Cure, more than million, than million, American Breast

Nursing Assistant Certificate Programs

Nursing assistant

Nursing assistants, also called nursing aides, are responsible for performing routine tasks and providing hands-on care to patients while they are being supervised by the nursing and medical staff. To become a certified nursing assistant (CNA), students must pass an examination after taking a minimum of 75 hours of state-approved training. Nursing assistant programs prepare students for entry into the field as a CNA.

North Seattle Community College

North Seattle Community College offers a nursing assistant certificate program that trains students in basic nursing skills. These skills include CPR and First Aid training as well as HIV/AIDS training and clinical training in a facility designed for long-term patient care. All coursework for this program must be completed on campus at North Seattle Community College. In addition to the academic curriculum, students are taught the importance of professional work ethics and effective leadership skills.

North Seattle Community College

9600 College Way North

Seattle, WA 98103

206-527-3600

northseattle.edu

Johnston Community College

Johnston Community College has a nursing assistant certificate program that offers daytime and evening classes. This 160-hour course trains students to obtain vital signs, administer medications and prepare surgery rooms. The daytime program lasts 12 weeks, and the evening and weekend classes last 16 weeks. The programs are available in January, April or September of each year.

Johnston Community College

245 College Road

PO Box 2350

Smithfield, NC 27577

919-934-3051

johnstoncc.edu

College of DuPage

College of DuPage offers a certified nursing assistant program that lasts 11 weeks and provides students with classroom instruction and clinical education. This three-month program teaches personal care, body mechanics, vital signs, safety measures, infection control, observation, communication and residents' rights. Students subsequently have the option of pursuing an Associate in Applied Science degree in nursing or enrolling in the Practical Nursing program.

College of DuPage

425 Fawell Boulevard

Glen Ellyn, IL 60137

630-942-8433

cod.edu

Tags: Community College, North Seattle, North Seattle Community, Seattle Community, Seattle Community College, College DuPage

Ultrasound Physical Therapy

Ultrasound is a form of thermotherapy (heat treatment) that helps to heal painful conditions and repairs soft tissue damage. Ultrasound therapy uses high-frequency sound waves that can penetrate up to 2 inches into your skin. The heat from these waves stimulates the healing process, increases blood flow to your affected area and reduces swelling and inflammation. Ultrasound therapy can be performed by physical therapists, occupational therapists, physicians and even yourself at home by using a portable ultrasound device.

How Ultrasound Works

Ultrasound therapy machines have a console that provides electrical current through a coaxial cable to a hand-held transducer, which contains a quartz crystal. This crystal produces sound waves through your skin by expanding and contracting. The head of the transducer, which delivers the sound waves, is constantly moving at high frequencies between 0.8 to 3 MHz. The lower the frequency, the deeper the waves penetrate, and the higher the frequency the less the waves penetrate. Ultrasound devices can produce different watts of power and thus different amounts of energy and heat to the body. However, it is recommended to use a lower power for a longer period of time.

Ultrasound Techniques

Ultrasound therapy can be delivered to your skin in either a continuous wave or a pulsed wave format. Pulsed wave therapy uses less heat and supplies sound waves to your skin in pulses with breaks in between. This method is used mainly to decrease inflammation, swelling and pain and this includes wound care. Continuous wave therapy uses higher wave frequencies and more heat to stimulate the process of healing and increases the metabolism of your tissue cells.

Phonophoresis

Phonophoresis is the process where topically applied drugs are used in conjunction with a gel (conductive medium) and an ultrasound therapy device to deliver particular medicines deep into the affected skin. Phonophoresis provides a great advantage by applying necessary medication only to particular parts of your body without "drugging" your entire body (like oral pain killers). However, the only drawback is that only certain drugs can be used. These particular drugs must have the right size molecules to enter your skin and must be able to withstand the heat and vibrations produced by the ultrasound device.

Benefits

Ultrasound therapy treatment provides many wonderful benefits. Those benefits include the following: stimulates blood flow to the affected area, which starts the healing process; reduces scar tissue, chronic swelling and inflammation; speeds up your metabolism and improves circulation in your affected area; reduces irritation to nerve roots; reduces muscle spasms; gently massages muscles and tendons, which helps them to relax and recover from tissue damage; provides local treatment only to affected areas; delivers certain medications phonophoretically; and provides almost instant pain relief for many people.

Risks

As with any medical treatment, you should consider the risks of ultrasound therapy. Ultrasound waves should not be used over your organs and other sensitive areas of your body. These include your heart, kidneys, liver, eyes, ovaries, testicles, ears, brain, spinal cord and bowels. Also, you should not undergo ultrasound therapy if you have certain medical conditions such as hemophilia, spinal bifida, diabetic neuropathy and deep venous thrombosis. Also, it is advised that pregnant women should not use it near their abdomens and lower back region. Lastly, people with implants such as pacemakers should not undergo ultrasound therapy.

Tags: your skin, sound waves, affected area, therapy uses, Ultrasound therapy

About The Life Span For Cancer In The Bone

About the Life Span for Cancer in the Bone

Bone cancer is one of the more rare forms of cancer, resulting in only about 2,300 new cases a year. If detected early and treated properly, chances of survival are good through the first five years.

Survival

Cancer survival is measured in five-year intervals. Nearly 70 percent of bone cancer patients can expect to reach that five-year mark and beyond, provided the cancer stays localized in the bone and does not spread.

Origin

Patients affected by secondary bone cancer, which indicates the cancer has spread to the bone from elsewhere in the body, may have as little as a few weeks of life left, although in some cases that may be as much as a few months.

Severity

Cancer spreads in stages of severity. A patient with bone cancer in stage three or four, for instance, may not have more than a few months to live, while the earlier stages provide for chance for treatment and survival.

Treatment

Through various treatments, bone cancer can be fought in an effort to extend life. Many options exist, such as surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. With effective treatment, almost three-quarters of affected patients will make it through five years or more.

Types

The type of bone cancer found has a big impact on life expectancy. For instance, those who are diagnosed with Osteosarcoma have an average life expectancy of two to five years, whereas Chondrosarcoma victims may only live from six months to a year.

Tags: bone cancer, five years, About Life, About Life Span, Cancer Bone

Grants For Nonprofits In Florida

Spelling out grant money for Florida nonprofits

If you run a nonprofit in Florida, or work for one, you probably know that there are numerous grant-making foundations that offer funds to qualified nonprofits. But just knowing they exist isn't enough. Most foundations only offer grants to nonprofits that meet certain requirements, and these requirements vary in complexity. So the best way to improve your chances of receiving grants for your nonprofit is to research foundations that support your field and look at the types of grants they have made in the past. There are several foundations that specialize in Florida nonprofits.

John S. and James L. Knight Foundation

The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation is one of the most active arts and media-related foundations in the country. According to the Knight Foundation's 2007 Progress Report, the foundation has granted more than $400 million since its formation in 1950, and $100 million of that was granted in just the last three years.

Although the foundation is currently active all over the country, it is incorporated in the state of Florida and offers a number of grants specifically to nonprofits that impact Florida communities. A few of the areas funded by Knight Foundation grants include: press freedom and freedom of information; digital media and news in the public interest; training and education; universal access to information and the Internet; fine arts and performing arts.

knightfoundation.org/grants

BankAtlantic Foundation

Since its creation in 1994, BankAtlantic Foundation has awarded more than $15 million to nonprofit organizations across the state of Florida. The four main areas supported by the foundation are community and economic development, human services, education and the arts. To apply for a grant from BankAtlantic Foundation, your nonprofit must already have 501(c)3 status and proposals are reviewed between March and October of each year.

bankatlantic.com/BAFoundation/

Blue Foundation for a Healthy Florida

The Blue Foundation for a Healthy Florida is the philanthropic arm of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida. The foundation supports efforts that improve access to quality health services for the uninsured and underprivileged residents of Florida. If your nonprofit works with health-related services or health education in the state of Florida, then you should apply for a grant from The Blue Foundation.

bcbsfl.com

Jacksonville Jaguars Foundation

The Jacksonville Jaguars Foundation aims to help meet the needs of underprivileged youth and families in Baker, Clay, Duval, Nassau and St. Johns counties. Since its inception in 1995, the foundation has awarded grants totaling more than $12.5 million to assist disadvantaged youth and their families. The foundation offers two grant cycles per year and requires that grantees possess 501(c)3 status.

jaguars.com/foundation/

County and Community Foundations

Nearly every county and community in Florida has a foundation setup to offer grants for various community improvement efforts. Check with your nearest city hall for information about these foundations.

Tags: Knight Foundation, BankAtlantic Foundation, Blue Foundation, foundations that, more than, more than million, state Florida

Medical Technician Courses

Medical technicians assist doctors in analyzing blood samples.

Prospective medical technicians must complete a medical technology degree program that combines academic coursework and laboratory work with clinical experiences. These medical professionals assist physicians and nurses in diagnosing diseases, taking bodily fluids, analyzing blood samples and performing medical research. Graduates of the program have an opportunity to pursue certification through the American Society for Clinical Pathology and American Medical Technologists.

Human Anatomy and Physiology

Human anatomy and physiology is a foundational science course that teaches students the basics of science and patient care. Students in the course learn about the structure and function of the human body. Focus is also placed on the cells, tissues and systems within the body, including the nervous system, muscular system, digestive system and respiratory system.

Microbiology

Students in a microbiology course learn about the biology of microorganisms in genetics, growth, metabolism and bodily function. The course educates students on the human immune system and how bacteria, viruses and fungi affect the body. Those enrolled in the course also learn about the role technology plays in the treatment of diseases and conditions.

Immunology

An immunology course teaches students the basic principles of how the immune system works, immune responses and viral infections. Students learn how the immune system fights off infections and diseases in the body, and how it distinguishes between foreign substances. Additional topics in the course focus on how cells in the immune system interact with each other and coordinate responses.

Bacteriology

The bacteriology course teaches students about the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of infections in the human body by studying how organisms and bacteria cause disease. Topics in the course include biology of microorganisms, food microbiology, host-parasite interactions and microbial genetics. The course also stresses the microbial strategies and mechanisms of invasion, colonization and resistance to host defenses.

Hematology

Students taking a hematology course learn about blood and how it transports nutrients and oxygen throughout the body. The course teaches students about the morphology of normal and abnormal blood cells and how blood diseases manifest. Topics also focus on blood clotting, blood samples, pathology and blood banking.

Tags: immune system, learn about, teaches students, blood samples, course learn

Find Where To Get A Free Mammogram During Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast Cancer Awareness

This is one doctor's visit that many women dread. There are several reasons why. One is because we have heard that it is extremely painful and two because there is a chance that we can have a lump in our breasts that could be cancer.

The month of October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and we wanted to share with you a list of places where you can get the mammogram done for free or low cost. The doctor's visit alone is stressful enough, so let's eliminate some of that stress.

Instructions

1. The American Cancer Society offers free mammograms at a location near you. You can go about finding these locations by visiting their website - American Cancer Society. Basically you will email them with the request for a free mammogram. You may also consider calling to find the nearest place to get your mammogram. Call the ACS at 1-800-ACS-2345. They will be able to assist you in finding the closest one near you.

2. There is also the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that also gives free mammograms. You may want to visit their site - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to find out where the nearest location is at. If you are having a hard time, you may want to also call them 1-800-CDC-INFO and they will definitely be able to help you.

3. The local Susan G. Komen Foundation may be able to help in financially assistance for those who cannot afford to be tested. Currently they are the largest independant and private organization for the fight against breast cancer. They provide grants to local hospitals and community centers that provide education screening and Breast Cancer treatment to those who are underserved. You can learn a lot more about this organization by visiting their site. Then you can also call 1-877-GO KOMEN

4. There may be several others that offer these services such as your local YMCA or planned parenting facilities. Surely any of those can be found in your local phone book. Remember that Breast Cancer Awareness month is in the month of October. Make this month the time to be more aware of Breast Cancer and get examined.

Tags: Breast Cancer Awareness, Cancer Awareness, Breast Cancer, Breast Cancer, able help, also call, American Cancer

Salaries For Medical Radiographers

A medical radiographer, also known as a radiologic technologist or technician, produces x-ray films of patients for use in the diagnosis of medical conditions. Radiographers prepare patients, operate and maintain equipment, and keep patient records. Some medical radiographers choose to specialize in computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or mammography. There are three factors which affect a medical radiographer's earning potential: experience, employer type and company size.

National Salary Data

Radiographers can earn between $36,939 and $50,743 yearly, based on December 2010 PayScale data. These figures represent the 25th through 75th percentile. Bonus accounts for a very small portion of the overall pay structure, between $206 and $1,179. Radiographers who work a lot of overtime can significantly increase their pay. Overtime rates range anywhere from 33 percent to 50 percent more than the standard hourly rate. Health benefits are quite common in this field, with 74 percent of radiographers having access to medical coverage.

Professional Experience

Experience plays a significant role in determining a radiographer's salary, accounting for up to a 50 percent difference. Entry-level radiographers, with less than one year of experience, earn between $15.48 and $20.97 hourly, according to PayScale December 2010 data. The hourly pay rate remains relatively stable until the fifth through ninth years. At this point radiographers earn between $18.46 and $23.78. Individuals with 10 to 19 years of experience can see another increase in salary to between $21.30 and $26.92. Earnings for radiographers peak at between $19.83 and $29.21 for those individuals with 20 or more years of experience.

Employer Type

Although most radiographers are employed by hospitals, jobs can be found in other organizations including nonprofit and private practice settings. Nonprofit organizations offer radiographers the least financial incentive, paying between $17.74 in $19.57 hourly, according to December 2010 PayScale data. Private practice pays slightly better, ranging between $14.74 and $22.60. Note that this range is wider than that of nonprofit organizations, starting at a significantly lower rate. Hospitals pay radiographers the best, anywhere between $17.71 and $23.93 on average.

Company Size

Radiographers seeking employment may wish to look for work in larger companies, because size can account for up to a 50 percent difference in salary. Small companies with 10 to 49 employees offer the lowest earning potential, between $14.46 and $20.40 per hour, according to December 2010 PayScale data. Radiographers can earn slightly more, between $17.79 and $22.67, working in companies with 200 to 599 employees. Large companies, with more than 5,000 employees, offer the best prospects. Here radiographers can earn between $19.58 and $32.43.

Tags: December 2010, earn between, 2010 PayScale, 2010 PayScale data, companies with

The Best Breast Augmentation Surgery

Many women today feel insecure about their breast size and opt for breast augmentation surgery. There are several key factors to consider when determining the best kind of augmentation for you. Size of the breast, type of implant and location of insertion will vary for each individual. You doctor can help you determine what may work best for you in accordance with the look you are trying to achieve with breast augmentation surgery.

Size

The most obvious consideration is size. Surgery is a major and potentially dangerous event, so picking the right size for you is important to avoid multiple surgeries for resizing. You physician can help you determine an appropriate size, but testing out sizes can also be helpful. Most lingerie departments sell "chicken cutlets," silicone pads that fit into your bra, which can give you a good idea of how much bigger you would like to be. Sometimes your doctor can also let you try on model implants. Wear either the models or the silicone pads in the desired size and see how you feel. Ask friends and family what they think to get a better idea of how you look. Whatever size makes you feel the most comfortable and confident is the size that is right for you.

Type of implant

There are two types of implants, saline filled or silicone filled. Saline is a safer material; if the implant were to rupture for any reason, the body will simply absorb the saline. Some people think this type of implant doesn't feel as real though. Silicone is the other filling that was commonly used and is now becoming popular again. It is though by some people to feel more natural; however, if it this implant ruptures, it will release the silicone into the body. Some people have experienced negative health effects when this happens. Your doctor can help you decide which type will be the best for you.

Scarring

The final aspect of breast augmentation surgery is the location of insertion of the implants. Traditionally, a small incision was made at the base of the breast or on the bottom of the areola and the implant was inserted. Some people did not want these scars and new methods were developed. Many augmentations today are done through an incision in the armpit or an incision in the belly button. These types of insertion leave far less noticeable scars but have an increased chance for post-operative infection as the skin layers are more traumatized from the longer path from insertion point to the breast. Your doctor can help you determine your risk factors and what insertion point will work best for you.

Tags: breast augmentation, breast augmentation surgery, doctor help, help determine, Some people

What Are The Laws For Home Healthcare In California

The California government's In-Home Supportive Services program offers financial support for elderly and disabled people to receive health care at home. Disabled children could also receive care at home through this program, which the California government considers an alternative to moving patients to an outside facility such as a nursing home. There are certain requirements to qualify for the defined home health care benefits provided by this program.

Eligibility

To be eligible to receive this benefit, you must be a California resident and a citizen of the United States or a qualified alien. You must already be receiving supplementary security income (SSI) or be eligible to receive SSI in all respects except for income limits. You could also be a Medi-Cal recipient who meets SSI disability criteria. You can live at your home or any other house you choose. This excludes commercial facilities.

Financial Limits

The California home health care laws also state that the value of your personal property must not exceed a specified dollar amount. As of 2010, this limit was $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. The home you live in and any car you use for personal transportation are not counted toward the limit. Cash, any money you have in bank accounts and any personal investments are considered toward the limit. Depending on what your income is, you may need to contribute a part of the cost of the in-home care.

Qualifying for Benefits

In order to determine eligibility for the in-home care services, a government social worker will interview you at home. Based on what she determines your need to be, she will recommend how many hours of help and the types of services you will need. If the program approves you to receive the services, you will have to hire someone and train him to provide the benefits. Through this program, you could hire someone to perform services that include cooking your meals, cleaning your home, doing your laundry, grocery shopping, personal care and grooming services. You could even hire somebody to accompany you to medical appointments. And for mentally impaired people, the California government allows proactive supervision services.

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Industrial Radiography Testing

Industrial radiography testing is like an X-ray for a structure or machine.

Industrial radiography testing involves using X-rays or gamma rays to inspect metal structures or machine parts. This is done in situations where it would be cost-prohibitive, time-prohibitive or unsafe to do a physical inspection.

Method

Industrial radiography testing works in much the same way as an X-ray but on a larger scale. Radiation is applied to the structure to be tested and then measured at the opposite side. Technicians can use these measurements to detect problems based on variations in the amount or intensity of radiation that passes through the structure.

Safety

Because industrial radiography uses large amounts of radiation, strict safety measures are imposed. Safety regulations for both testers and others working nearby will vary by country as well as by site. The type of testing being done, the nature of the site being tested, and the specific situations of nearby workers all affect what precautions are required.

Future

New methods for non-destructive testing are emerging which may eventually replace radiography. Ultrasonic and digital testing systems already exist. It may take some time before sufficient industry and government standards are in place to allow these new methods to become the norm.

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Staphylococcus Aureus Urinary Tract Infection

According to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse, urinary tract infections are the second most common infection in the body accounting for 8.3 million doctor visits per year. A Staphylococcus aureus urinary tract infection can occur in the urethra, bladder or kidneys and is caused by the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Treatment consists of an antibiotic given over a period of several days.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a Staphylococcus aureus urinary tract infection vary depending upon which part of the urinary system is involved. If the infection is in the bladder, the symptoms will include pressure in the pelvic region, lower abdominal pain and a low grade fever. If the infection is in the urethra, the symptom will be burning with urination. When the infection is in the kidneys, symptoms will include back and side pain, high fever, shaking and chills, nausea and possibly vomiting.

Whenever you are having symptoms of a urinary tract infection, see your physician.

Risk Factors

According to the Mayo Clinic, 50 percent of all females will develop a urinary tract infection at some point in their life. Risk factors besides being a female include use of a diaphragm for birth control, as well as frequent catheter use. In addition, people with diabetes or compromised immune systems are also at a higher risk of developing a urinary tract infection. Another risk factor is an enlarged prostate gland or kidney stones.

If you do not seek treatment for a urinary tract infection, a kidney infection or permanent damage to the kidneys can occur.

Treatment - Medical

Treatment for Staphylococcus aureus urinary tract infection should include taking your prescribed antibiotic as directed. Antibiotic usage is personalized to the bacteria that is causing the infection. According to the Health Sciences Center at Stony Brook, 85 percent of urinary tract infections are caused by the E Coli bacteria; 10 percent are caused by the Klebsiella, Procteus, Pseudomonas, or Enterobacter; and less than 5 percent are caused by the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, enterococcus or chlamydia.

Antibiotics that fight the Staphylococcus aureus urinary tract infection include nafcillin, vancomycin, cefazolin, clindamycin, dicloxacillian or trimethoprim--sulfamethoxazole.

For severe cases of urinary tract infection, hospitalization with intravenous antibiotics is required.

Treatment - Homecare

Homecare for treatment of a Staphylococcus aureus urinary tract infection should include rest. Use a heating pad on your abdomen for pain. Also drink plenty of water to flush out the bacteria.

Prevent a Urinary Tract Infection

Urinary tract infections can be very uncomfortable, but there are some measures you can take to prevent them. After urinating or defecating, wipe front to back to prevent bacteria from entering the urethra. Also drink plenty of fluids including cranberry juice, and avoid products such as douches and feminine sprays.

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