Nursing mother dogs may get breast or teat infections.
Swelling is a main symptom of a mammary gland (breast) infection or mastitis in a dog. Other symptoms of canine breast infections include the breast feeling hot to the touch, dried milk caked to the breasts and fever.
Types
According to "Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook," nursing female dogs can get galactostasis mastitis (or "caked breasts") and any female dogs can get acute septic mastitis.
Causes
Galactostasis is caused by too much milk irritating the mammary gland and teats. Acute septic mastitis can be caused by bacteria entering into a cut or other injury on the dog's breast or from an existing bodily infection.
Misconception
"The Veterinarians' Guide to Your Dog's Symptoms" mentions that breast swelling and becoming hot to the touch may also be signs of false pregnancy and not an infection.
Complications
According to veterinarian Dr. Douglas Brum, living in dirty conditions will make the swelling and mammary gland infection in dogs much worse. Dogs with short legs also are more likely to get breast infections.
Treatment
Dogs with galactostasis may be given Lasix to help dry up the milk. Antibiotics, removing the infected milk from the infected breast and warm compresses are used in acute septic mastitis.
The earliest type of breast cancer is called ductal carcinoma in situ, which is abbreviated DCIS. It is the most frequent kind of breast cancer when referring to cancer still confined to its place of origin.
Definition
Ductal cancer begins in a breast's milk duct. In situ means the cancer is noninvasive, or that it hasn't spread to other parts of the body.
Symptoms
Although physical signs are rare, when present they may include a lump in the breast and discharge from the nipple. The cancer is most often detected during a mammogram.
Causes
The precise cause of DCIS remains unclear. Researchers suspect diet (such as eating red meat), environmental triggers like radiation, exposure to hormones, genetics and lifestyle (for example, being overweight) may play a role in its development.
Treatment
Treating DCIS is frequently successful. Strategies may include breast or tumor removal (mastectomy and lumpectomy, respectively), radiation therapy and medication such as Nolvadex (generic name tamoxifen).
Risk Factors
Factors that increase the likelihood of developing DCIS include being older, getting pregnant for the first time after age 30, having a history of non-malignant breast conditions, having relatives with breast cancer and never conceiving.
In the United States, the elderly and disabled populations have access to Medicare, a comprehensive health care system that is offered by the federal government. It is available nationwide directly from the federal government or through private health plans known as Medicare Advantage plans. Both of these options are available in the state of Kentucky. Most requirements and eligibility information is uniform throughout the United States; however, some information that is specific to Kentucky is helpful for the Bluegrass state's citizens to know.
Eligibility
Kentuckians are subject to the same eligibility guidelines as all other Americans. To qualify for Medicare, enrollees must either be 65 years of age or older, disabled or diagnosed with end-stage renal disease. To qualify for premium-free Part A, an enrollee must have worked in the United States at least 10 years, and all Medicare recipients must be legal citizens.
Coverage
Traditional Medicare offers the same coverage nationwide. However, the availability of Medicare private health plans (known as Medicare Advantage plans) or Medigap plans (supplemental insurance) may vary depending on where in Kentucky a beneficiary resides.
Medicare Savings Programs
Kentucky offers a Medicare Savings Program to its low-income population. Medicare Savings Programs help off-set some of the extraneous costs of Medicare, including co-payments, coinsurances, deductibles and premiums.
Medicare Savings Programs are available at three levels. Qualified Medicare Beneficiaries (QMB) receive the most assistance and have the strictest income eligibility guidelines. As of 2010, to qualify, an individual cannot have income higher than $903 monthly and a married couple can't have an income higher than $1,215 monthly. Specified low-income Medicare beneficiaries receive less assistance and as of 2010, their income limits were capped at $1,083 monthly for individuals and $1,457 monthly for couples. Finally, there is the Qualifying Individual (QI) Program, which gives the least assistance to individuals who bring in less than $1,219 a month and couples who make less than $1,640 a month.
Enrollment
Kentucky residents can enroll in Medicare during designated enrollment periods. When they first become eligible, they can enroll during their initial enrollment period, which is the seven-month period that surrounds the first month they are eligible for Medicare (the three months before, the month of and the three months following). They can also enroll during the annual coordinated election period (November 15 to December 31) and the open enrollment period (January 1 to March 31).
Kentuckians who are enrolled in Kentucky's Medicare Savings Programs can qualify for a special enrollment period once a month.
State Health Insurance Assistance Program
Kentuckians who have questions about Medicare can receive counseling from volunteers and professionals from their State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). SHIP offers telephone and in-person counseling. They can help people with applying to any low-income programs, picking out Medicare Advantage, Part D plans or Medigaps, and any other issue pertaining to better understanding Medicare. The Kentucky SHIP can be reached at 877-293-7447.
Adding a father's name to a birth certificate is important for a baby's future.
For various reasons there are times when a birth certificate needs to be changed or corrected. Sometimes, it is due to parental rights or lineage. Sometimes it is due to a mistake made on the original document. In either case, it is absolutely essential to a child's future to have the name of their actual father listed on his or her birth certificate. Although the steps are somewhat different according to what state the child was born in, the basics are essentially the same.
Instructions
1. Write a letter stating the father's name that should appear on the birth certificate and describe the reason for the change. If there was no father ever listed on the birth certificate you will need to have his written and notarized permission. The mother will need to sign this letter as well. Deliver this letter to the department of vital records in the state of birth. Some states require both the parents to fill out an application requesting the amendment and will attach the notarized letter to the application.
2. Pay the required amendment fee, which varies from state to state. You may also need to pay a fee in order to receive a revised copy of the birth certificate.
3. Complete what is known as a recognition of parentage form if the mother and father are not married at the time of the birth. This is an agreement between both parents and the state of birth as to who the child's father is according to law.
4. Request a court ordered paternity adjudication if the mother or father do not agree on parentage. This can be obtained from the county court office where you live. An adjudication is a legal process by which a judge reviews statements and evidence from both the mother and father and makes a decision. In most cases DNA tests will be ordered to help the judge decide whether the father's name on the child's birth certificate needs to be added or changed.
5. Add a non-biological father's name to the birth certificate if he has legally adopted the child. You will be required to provide legal documentation of adoption as well as written permission by the biological father if he is living or known. You may also request a court order to have the biological fathers paternity terminated if he is known. This is a serious step and should be considered only in cases where the father cannot be located or is unfit according to the law. You will need to contact your county court office for assistance on this matter, and an attorney's services may be necessary.
Tags: birth certificate, birth certificate, father name, mother father, will need, birth certificate needs, both parents
Many people confuse MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) with CT or CAT Scans (Computed Axial Tomography). These imaging exams are quite different.
CAT Scan - Definition
A CAT scan is a specialized kind of x-ray. In this type of procedure, the patient lies down and is slid into a large, circular opening. The tube into which the patient is wheeled rolls around the patient to collect images that are processed by a computer.
MRI - Definition
An MRI machine uses radar waves and magnets in order to create images for diagnosis. Unlike the CAT scan, no X-rays are used. Similar to a CAT scan, the patient is placed in a long cylinder, which is a large magnet, where he is told to remain still. The machine collects and produces the required images after about a half-hour.
CAT Scan - Production of Images
Iodine-based contrast agents are sometimes used in a CAT scan. The substances are absorbed by abnormal tissues, therefore making it easier to see any tumors in the resulting images.
MRI - Production of Images
In an MRI, images are produced when a computer sends a radio wave throughout the patient's body and obtains a signal that's emitted through hydrogen atoms in the body's cells. The details are collected by an antenna and transferred to the computer. The images, although similar to CAT scan images, contain much more detail with respect to the soft tissues in the body.
Useful CAT Scan Tests
CAT scans are better used for images of the bones, and are good for examining the skull, sinuses, chest, abdomen and pelvis.
MRI Tests
MRIs are useful in producing images of the soft tissues of the body. They can produce images of tumors in the brain; sensory and neural parts of the body; the cranial nerve; joints, including the fingers and toes; and any area where tumors in the soft tissues may exist.
Tags: soft tissues, Production Images, soft tissues body, tissues body
Facts About Buying Health Insurance Before Medicare
Many companies do not offer health insurance and many other people do not qualify for the health insurance that they do offer. For those who are old enough to qualify for Medicare, this is not too much of a problem. For those who are too young or do not otherwise qualify for Medicare, other health insurance is necessary.
Importance of Health Insurance
Studies have shown that people who do not have health insurance are less likely to be as healthy as those who do have health insurance. Health insurance makes it affordable for individuals to visit their primary care physician and if hospitalization is necessary it too can be affordable.
Continuing Previous Insurance
Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconcilidation Act (COBRA) insurance allows individuals to keep their previous insurance from a previous job for a price. While this insurance is expensive and time sensitive, often running out after 18 months, it can help people remain covered.
Coming off COBRA
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is government-sanctioned insurance coverage. This covered ensures coverage but does not guarantee rates. On average HIPAA is much more expensive than COBRA. You must file for HIPAA within 63 days of the termination of the COBRA coverage.
Guaranteed Acceptance
Some states make sure that all of their citizens can be covered by independent insurance companies. These states make it so that the different insurance companies cannot deny an individual based upon previous health conditions. However, these states do not ensure that the insurance policy is affordable for people living in those states. Individuals with no or few health concerns may not be able to afford health insurance because of the cost of covering individuals with many health concerns.
Pre-existing Medical Conditions
Most insurance companies can and will decline coverage for those who have a pre-existing medical condition. This is even true if the medical condition is easily treated, such as slightly high blood pressure or cholestrol levels. This does not mean that all insurance companies will decline coverage though, so check first.
Finding Independent Insurance
You have several options to find an independent insurance company. The most effective manner is to go to a comparison website that offers quotes from various insurance companies. These websites take a medical history and then pass this onto the various insurance companies. From there the insurance companies contact you with their quote and insurance coverage. Another method is to contact the insurance companies individually to see what medical conditions are covered and the cost of coverage.
Tags: insurance companies, health insurance, About Buying, About Buying Health, Before Medicare, Buying Health
United Health Care encourages employers to participate in a wellness program for their employees. Depending on what plan you have, you may be eligible for discounts on diet programs such as Weight Watchers and Jenny Craig. To find out if you qualify, contact United Health Care directly.
Wellness Programs
United Health Care encourages employers to focus on preventative medicine in an effort to cost medical costs. They claim that the returns for doing so can amount up to $3 to $6 on the dollar within a 2- to 5-year period. According to the insurance carrier, more than half of the adults in the United States are inactive, and one-third were obese from 2003 to 2004. Cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes type 2 are some of the diseases that can be offset by losing weight with your employer's wellness program. Through United Health Care's health discount program, users can save 10 to 50 percent on a variety of health care products.
Weight Watchers
Weight Watchers is a plan that includes counseling and food monitoring through a process called POINTS. POINTS take into account the calories, fat and dietary fiber in each item of food and gives it a POINTS value. Alternatively, dieters may stick to a certain list of whole, unprocessed foods and stop eating when they are full. Weight Watchers also encourages physical activity, water consumption, multivitamin intake and and a well-balance diet of fruits, vegetables, lean dairy and protein, and whole grains. Customers attend a weekly meeting and talk with others about their diet and exercise issues. Alternatively, customers can opt in an online or at-work program.
Jenny Craig
Jenny Craig is a plan that focuses on calorie consumption and provides customers with prepackaged foods that they then supplement with fresh fruits and vegetables. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks are all supplied by the Jenny Craig system, and customers must strictly adhere to their daily caloric allowances. In a more private setting, compared to Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig customers are assigned to a counselor who meets weekly to discuss diet, exercise and life issues.
MyUHC.com
United Health Care also has its own portal that can be used as a weight loss program. There are various tools and resources, including health care assessments and articles with pertinent information for those trying to lose weight. Other tools include a meal plan, a portion sizer, a food journal and an online health coach to help you reach your weight-loss goals.
Other Options
Check with your health insurance carrier for other products that are eligible for a discount through United Health Care. These may include a membership to Curves and other health clubs, as well as NordicTrack equipment.
Tags: United Health, United Health Care, Jenny Craig, Weight Watchers, Health Care, Care encourages
Decorating with cool colors, such as blue, can help deflect some of the hot Phoenix weather.
Phoenix is notorious for its sweltering hot summers and desert landscape. Decorate your home to keep cool and escape the heat or reflect the local culture. Just because you're living in the desert doesn't mean you can't decorate your home to feel like a cool beach cottage or spring garden. Does this Spark an idea?
Colors
Cool colors, such as blue, turquoise and green, can help give the impression of a cooler home, which can make a huge difference during the hot summer months. Consider using a neutral color palette for the basics, such as the walls and floor, and bring in colorful accessories that can be swapped out during the winter months if you favor warm colors. The walls can be painted in light shades, even a warm beige, ivory or peach, if you want the room to feel cozier or more intimate without heating the room up. Warm colors, such as red and orange, might make the room feel hotter during the summer. Bright colors, such as yellow, can increase the warmth or brighten the room.
Themes
Consider decorating the rooms in your home with a theme to make you feel like you're somewhere other than the Phoenix desert. Use your favorite vacation spot or culture for inspiration. Decorate your home to look and feel like an ocean cottage, cabin in the woods, a French country home or a hut on an exotic island. Bring in accessories and colors to complement your theme. For example, use light blue or white paint, wicker furniture with blue and white cushions, plants and sand and seashell accessories to create a beach feel.
Local Reflection
Decorate your entire house or a couple of rooms to reflect the local culture in Phoenix. Use the professional sports teams that call Phoenix home, if you root for them, as your inspiration. For example, decorate a room with white or gray and use purple and orange accents to honor the Suns if you're a basketball fan. Various shades of red can be combined with black and white to represent the Coyotes (hockey), Cardinals (football) or the Diamondbacks (baseball). Decorate with turquoise or copper, which are both found in Arizona. Use a natural palette of deep reds, browns, oranges and some green to represent the desert landscape. Southwest decor is another option that reflects the local history; it plays off of the Native American culture which has deep roots in Phoenix.
Accessories
Consider hard surface floors, such as tile, vinyl or wood, that won't retain heat during the summer. Accessorize your floors with area rugs to keep warm during the winter or add to your decor. Avoid thick drapes as they can make the room feel heavy and warm. Cool down the room with blackout shades and sheer curtains or curtains made of light fabric. Use LED candles if you want the ambiance without the heat. Decorate your fireplace--if you have one--with candles or a decorative screen during the warmer months. Mirrors will bounce light around the room, making it feel larger, but shouldn't be positioned directly in front of a window or door to avoid directly reflecting the sun's rays. Hang decorative ceiling fans, if possible, to help you keep cool without compromising your decor.
Tags: colors such, your home, Decorate your, during summer, feel like, room feel
As of 2008, teachers' average yearly salaries tended to be between about $52,000 and $55,000.
Although teachers want to make enough money to pay their rent and other bills, financial gain is not a primary motivator for the profession. As the Oregon School Boards Association points out, what keeps a teacher wanting remain in her field is her desire to help her students learn. Indeed, when compared to doctors and lawyers, teachers do not earn enough cash for money to be a chief motivating factor. The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that teachers' average yearly salaries, as of 2008, tended to be between about $52,000 and $55,000, whether they were elementary, middle or high school instructors.
Collegiality
Collegiality, or the ability to work with fellow teachers, motivates an educator to continue to want to remain in her profession. Being in an environment where the instructors colleagues support one another, whether in curriculum development or behavior management, keeps the instructor from feeling alone and wanting to quit when the job seems demanding and overwhelming.
Working Conditions
A teacher finds her job more appealing if the district is able to effectively manage the working conditions of the classroom. For instance, an instructor's job is easier when she is working with a smaller group of students. Even in classrooms with larger sizes, the presence of extra adults in the room, such as volunteer parents, paraprofessionals or both -- comforts a teacher's mind, allowing her to focus on instruction, instead of feeling that, as the sole adult in the room, she must multitask.
Support/Feedback From Administrators
Constructive, honest feedback on performance that praises exemplary work but provides sincere help on improving weak areas is helpful. As the Oregon School Boards Association says, it is a strong factor for job satisfaction. For instance, classroom management is a problem area for many teachers, especially those in their first year of service. Instead of placing them in fear of losing their jobs, administrators who share tips on improve, perhaps based on their own mistakes, are by far a more valuable asset to a teacher in her overall professional development.
Evaluation Process
An evaluation process that the principal makes clear from the first day on the teacher's job helps strengthen morale and ease her mind of having to constantly worry about losing her job over a minor mistake. On the other hand, if evaluations are more capricious and secretive, and the administrator calls the instructor into the office only after complaints from parents and other teachers have mounted over a period of time, it can lead to a breakdown of trust, especially if the principal has been constantly praising the teacher over her performance.
Tags: average yearly, average yearly salaries, between about, Boards Association, Oregon School, Oregon School Boards
Breast reduction surgery is generally covered by most insurance plans. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast reduction is regarded as a reconstructive surgery to relieve medical symptoms. Because of this, most insurance companies will provide coverage for the surgery as long as the patient meets certain conditions.
Medical History
Plastic surgeons will write a letter to the insurance company requesting coverage for the breast reduction procedure. In order to have a greater chance of approval, several criteria must be met. If the plastic surgeon can show a medical history of visits to medical practitioners for symptoms related to the weight and size of the breast, there is a higher chance of obtaining approval.
Demonstration of Inteference
The patient needs to be able to demonstrate how the size and weight of the breasts are interfering with normal functioning. While many women will note cosmetic reasons, this is not enough of a reason for the surgery to be covered. Medical reasons such as back pain, inability to exercise, headaches related to tension in neck and back and indentations in the shoulders can all show a need for the surgery.
Amount of Tissue Removed
While this can vary from one insurance company to the next, most insurance companies will require that a minimum of 500 grams be removed from each breast during surgery. Based on the detailed measurements taken by the plastic surgeon during the consultation, an estimation of how much will be removed will be made based on the woman's body type and stature.
Appropriate Weight
Some insurance companies will also require the patient be at the appropriate weight for her height and frame size before the surgery occurs. This is to ensure that the excess size and weight of the breasts is not due to excess overall weight for the patient. However, if documentation can be provided that even at a lower weight, the patient still had large breasts, this requirement may be waived.
Picture Documentation
The plastic surgeon will take pictures of the upper half of the patient's body during the examination. These pictures are usually from the front, both sides and the back. Not only do these show the size of the breasts in relation to the woman's frame, they can also highlight permanent shoulder indentations due to bra straps and poor posture due to the weight of the breasts.
Considerations
While breast reduction surgery is generally covered by most insurance companies, the requirements can vary greatly among companies. It is important to choose a plastic surgeon who not only has a long history of successful breast reduction surgeries, but who has also learned to navigate the insurance maze to assist patients in getting approved for the surgery.
Tags: insurance companies, most insurance, plastic surgeon, companies will, insurance companies will
There are many programs for women's and children's health care.
Health care is as important for low income families as it is for those who fall into higher income brackets. To make the most of the health care available to those with low incomes, it is important to know who is eligible and what that person or family qualifies for. Many programs are available, especially for women and children or for veterans who may not know where else to turn.
Eligibility
According to the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services, health care is available for many individuals and families at the federal level, although the government is not able to provide coverage for everyone. Medicaid is federally funded but administered at the state level, so qualifications vary from state to state. Additional programs are available specifically for women, children and veterans. Medicare covers Americans age 65 and older, although it does not cover every medical expense and supplemental insurance is generally needed.
Medicaid and Medicare
For Medicaid, applicants must fall at or below minimum income and household resource limits that are set at the state level. Children under five may qualify for Medicaid services even if their parent(s) do not. Under some conditions, the person receiving Medicaid services may be required to pay a portion of the health care out of pocket. Medicare is available for persons age 65 and older to provide necessary medical care at little or no cost to the participant. Additional programs are available specifically for pregnant women, infants and dependent children.
Women's Health Programs
In addition to the other health programs available to low income persons, there are also special care programs available to women. These programs include supplemental nutrition programs for Women, Infants and Children, or WIC, and the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program, or NBCCEDP, among others. In all cases, eligibility is determined by the state of residence; some programs may include mandatory participation in related social service programs as well.
Childrens Health Insurance Program
The Children's Health Insurance Program, or CHIP, is intended to reach an estimated 11 million children from families who are not eligible for other government-sponsored health care services. This program was renewed and expanded by the Obama administration in 2009 with the goal of increasing the number of children eligible by 4 million children, up from 7 million under the previous act. CHIP is administered on a state-by-state basis and allows each state to modify the qualifying factors for participants.
Veterans' Health
Veterans who served a full term of enrollment or who were discharged other than dishonorably are eligible for health care through the Department of Veterans Affairs, or VA. Applicants begin by submitting the VA form 10-10EZ, Application for Health Benefits. Once the enrollment is complete, eligible veterans may receive care from VA care centers anywhere in the country at no cost to the patient.
Tags: health care, programs available, Health Insurance, women children, Additional programs, Additional programs available, available specifically
Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a form of breast cancer that is rare but extremely aggressive. In IBC breast cancer, the lymph vessels in the breast become clogged by cancerous cells. This causes the breast to become red and swollen, or "inflamed." IBC breast cancer develops very quickly and often is not detected by routine methods of breast cancer screening, such as mammography.
Considerations
According to the National Cancer Institute, 1 to 5 percent of all people with breast cancer in the United States have IBC breast cancer. Compared to non-IBC breast cancer, this type tends to be found in younger women. More African Americans develop the cancer than Caucasians, and at an earlier age. Men can get IBC breast cancer, but it tends to occur later in life.
Symptoms
One of the most important differences in symptoms of IBC breast cancer and non-IBC breast cancer is that IBC breast cancer often has no defined lump in the breast. Typical symptoms include swelling, redness and warmth in the breast. The skin can also appear reddish purple, pink or bruised and may have ridges or a pitted appearance. Other symptoms may include increase in breast size, heaviness, aching, burning, tenderness or an inverted nipple. Swollen lymph nodes may be detected above the collarbone, under the arm or in both locations. Symptoms typically develop very quickly, usually over a period of weeks or months.
Diagnosis
To diagnose inflammatory breast cancer, your doctor will assess your medical history and perform a clinical examination, including an excisional biopsy. Imaging tests such as a mammogram and breast ultrasound are usually used to confirm the diagnosis. If the biopsy results indicate that you have inflammatory breast cancer, the doctor will determine what stage the cancer is in so that an appropriate treatment plan can be developed. According to the Mayo Clinic, approximately one-third of all newly diagnosed IBC breast cancers are in stage IV, which means that the cancer has spread to other areas of the body.
Treatment
The initial treatment for inflammatory breast cancer is chemotherapy, which is usually followed by surgery and radiation therapy. The purpose of the chemotherapy is to attack the cancer cells, shrink the cancer and correct skin problems before surgery is performed. After chemotherapy, an operation to remove the affected breast (mastectomy) is performed. Conservative surgery to keep from removing the breast is not recommended for women with IBC breast cancer. After the mastectomy, most women receive additional chemotherapy, followed by radiation therapy to kill any remaining cancer cells.
Prognosis
The 5-year survival rate for people with IBC, at between 25 and 50 percent, is significantly lower than the survival rate for those with non-IBC breast cancer. This can be attributed to the fact that IBC is much more likely to have spread to other parts of the body by the time the cancer is diagnosed. The National Cancer Institute encourages people with IBC to enroll in clinical trials to explore new treatments.
Tags: breast cancer, breast cancer, cancer that, non-IBC breast, non-IBC breast cancer
Diagnostic medical sonographers work in hospitals, clinics and private practice. The sonographer uses ultrasound to create images of growing fetuses, body organs, even the brain. In Pennsylvania, there are many outlets to get your training. Training consists of anything from a few weeks certificate to a full-fledged four-year bachelor's of science. Pennsylvania's State Board of Medicine regulates all sonography jobs in the state and recognizes sonographers as medical professionals.
ultrasound image
Thomas Jefferson University
Thomas Jefferson University is an independent medical school located in Philadelphia. It was founded in 1842 and has three divisions, one of which is Health professionals. the school of Health Professionals offers a B.S. in Diagnostic Medical Sonography and prepares students to become ultrasound and sonography technicians.
School of Diagnostic Medical Sonography
The School of Diagnostic Medical Sonography is located in Wilkes-Barre Pennsylvania. What makes this program different is that it is held in the Wilkes-Barr General Hospital. The school offers an 18-month program that instructs the student in "abdominal, OB/GYN, high resolution scanning and introduction to non-invasive vascular sonography." This is a competitive program, accepting only four students each term. Upon finishing the 18-month course, the student receives a Certificate of Completion and has the knowledge necessary to take the National certification exam.
Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania
Bloomsburg University, in central Pennsylvania, is one of few institutions in Pennsylvania where one can obtain a bachelor's in sonography. The degree is in "Medical Imaging" and has extensive training in sonography and diagnositics. The schools describes the program on its website as "rigorous and demanding" and warns that "students should be prepared to study in both academic and clinical environments and have a strong background in all the sciences."
Drexel University
Drexel offers sonography training as part of its associate and bachelor's degrees in its Medical and Health Professionals Studies program in Philadelphia. The program is two to four years, depending on the student's specialization and focus.
Pennsylvania College of Technology
The Pennsylvania College of Technology is a division of Penn State in Williamsport. They have a 13-credit course load couple with 1,500 hours of hands-on practice, resulting in a Competency Credential. The mix of theory and practice make this course a good choice for those who learn by doing and want the minimum of academics.
Sanford-Brown Institute - Philadelphia
The Sanford-Brown Institute is located in Philadelphia and offers a Certificate of Diagnostic Medical Sonography. According to its website, the school works closely with employers to ensure that the program is relevant to the student and to increase the prospect of employment upon graduation.
Accreditation
Not all programs are accredited. You can easily verify a sonography school by going to the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs, or CAAHEP caahep.org. Degrees in Diagnostic Medical Sonography are just starting to appear in catalogs as the field grows and the training becomes more regulated.
Tags: Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Medical Sonography, Diagnostic Medical, Diagnostic Medical, Bloomsburg University, College Technology
Breast reconstruction surgery is often covered, but surgery that isn't covered will cost thousands of dollars.
Breast reconstruction after an extensive lumpectomy (wide excision of the tumor) or mastectomy (complete removal of one or both breasts) is a cosmetic option that can help women gain self-esteem after disfiguring cancer surgery. For women whose insurance coverage does not come under the Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998, the cost of breast reconstruction surgery can be daunting.
Significance
Reconstruction methods vary. You should discuss the options with a qualified plastic surgeon. In some cases, during the course of many weeks, your skin will need special conditioning with saline, after which an implant (either silicone or saline) will be installed. Alternatively, a procedure called flap reconstruction uses tissue, including muscle, fat and skin, from elsewhere on the body to create a sleeve in which to house the implant or form a new stand-alone breast.
Cost
According to the website Plastic Surgery Portal, the least costly breast reconstruction surgery runs about $5,000, whereas the most costly is around $9,000. It depends on the particular procedure. The national average tends to be $7,000 as of June 2010.
WHCRA Rights
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998 requires that insurers that cover breast cancer surgery are required to provide related services. These include covering all phases of breast reconstruction related to cancer surgery, use of any prostheses and treatment of any complications, of which lymphedema (fluid retention in the lymph nodes) is common.
Considerations
If you find yourself facing surgery for a mastectomy, talk to your insurance company and be clear about what is and is not covered for breast reconstruction under your plan. If you find that your provider does not cover reconstruction, you have other options, including financing. Among the companies that offer financing plans for health-related issues are Capital One Healthcare and CareCredit.
Factors That Affect Cost
Many elements will affect the cost of breast reconstruction surgery. It depends on which method is being used, whether one or both breasts are involved, whether the reconstruction surgery occurs at the same time that the mastectomy or lumpectomy is happening or weeks afterward, the surgeon's location and whether complications arise during reconstruction.
Tags: reconstruction surgery, breast reconstruction, breast reconstruction surgery, cancer surgery, both breasts, Cancer Rights, Cancer Rights 1998
The possibility of a lawsuit is real for every physician, adding to the stress of the job.
Liability insurance protects the insured in the event she is held responsible for losses, damages, or injuries. This type of insurance is especially important in a medical office because errors can result in debilitating and even fatal consequences. In some states, medical workers and legislators consider liability insurance so vital that it is required by law, as indicated by the Michigan Physicians Mutual Liability Company (MPMLC) website.
Financial Responsibility
Doctors and other medical workers may be held legally responsible for mistakes they make. If a medical worker without insurance gets sued and loses his case, the courts may require him to pay thousands or even millions of dollars. Thus, liability insurance protects physicians and other health care workers from the financial devastation that a lawsuit may cause.
Severity of Errors
Liability often is tied to major errors like giving a patient an accidental overdose. However, patients can sue for even minor mistakes like nicking. This makes it much harder for doctors, nurses and other specialists to predict when they may face legal action. Having liability insurance offers some peace of mind because the health care worker knows that she is covered even for unexpected lawsuits.
Where to Get Insurance
Because liability insurance is so important, most major health care workers get it, although some physicians don't purchase insurance if permitted to go "bare bones" by their state. Health care workers can get insurance through major organizations associated with their area of specialty. For example, Nurses Service Organization offers insurance for nurses. However, some companies such as Healthcare Providers Insurance Organization provide liability insurance to a broad array of medical disciplines. These companies may seek endorsement of the insurance from specialty-related organizations.
Individual Responsibility
According to American law, each individual in a medical facility may be held legally responsible for his actions. This means that to be fully protected, a medical office should check that all employees have some type of liability insurance. However, it is not the responsibility of the medical facility to provide the coverage --- it's up to the employees to take action to protect themselves, especially since they cannot guarantee that a supervisor's insurance won't have gaps.
Balancing Costs
The cost of liability insurance for health care workers will vary by location, the limits of liability within the policy and the responsibility the worker has, as asserted by the G & G Advanced Medical Consulting website. Every health care worker has to assess whether the risk of a lawsuit is high enough to make paying premiums worthwhile. In some cases, a worker may choose to hold insurance but get low coverage so the insurance is affordable. The rising cost of medical insurance premiums is making it harder for physicians to practice, according to MPMLC, which makes it more difficult for patients to get the care they need.
Tags: care workers, liability insurance, health care, health care workers, care worker, health care
Find out qualify for free Blue Cross health insurance in your state.
Health insurance is a vital part of every family's financial plan. However, not every family can afford health insurance. Without health insurance, a family is just one accident or illness away from financial ruin. Health insurance defrays the cost of health care by providing payment for services that individuals need if they are injured or sick. When trying to figure out whether you can afford health insurance, check to see if your state offers free health insurance through Blue Cross.
Instructions
1. Call your local Blue Cross office and request information on Blue Cross insurance plans for low-income families. Alternatively, Blue Cross may be the provider for the state or federal low-income programs where you live.
2. Determine your eligibility. You are normally only eligible for free health insurance if you meet certain income requirements. These vary by state for state-run programs, and even federal programs vary according to how much money you make, whether or not you have children, how many children you have, etc. Typical requirements, however, will place you at 100 to 200 percent of the federal poverty level for federal programs.
3. Apply for benefits. You will need to speak to a caseworker in most situations and fill out eligibility forms along with an application for insurance. You will be periodically asked for income verification and a verification of your assets. This normally happens every year on your policy renewal date.
Tags: Blue Cross, health insurance, afford health, afford health insurance, every family
floats should be inspirational, fun and have vivid biblical scenery. Scenes of Jesus at important moments in his life are popular ideas, and if the parade is taking place during a holiday, those particular scenes will already be set (birth for Christmas, resurrection for Easter, etc.) However, if the Christian parade is for the celebration of Christianity itself, parade planners should have several floats that each represent a pivitol point in the teachings of Christianity.
Birth of Jesus
Birth of Jesus floats are one idea to kick off the Christian parade. A classic Nativity scene (with live actors) should include Mary, Joseph, the baby Jesus and the three wise men. Consider decorating the float like a barn, with straw and life-sized statues of farm animals. The float can include music (for example, Christmas carols or other inspirational-type music).
Young Life of Jesus
Consider decorating a float that depicts the young life of Jesus, having actors playing Jesus and his father at work at a carpentry table. Decorate the float with scenes from a Middle Eastern background (sand dunes, creeks and desert plants).
Adult Life of Jesus
You can decorate a float with an actor of an adult Jesus preaching to the masses, along with his disciples. Consider dressing all the actors in long robes and sandals. Another idea is to have a bathtub on the float, and have the disciple John perform "baptisms" on the float. Use real water and it will be a hit.
Crucifixion
Avoid having floats depict the Passion, as some people find this unsuitable for children who will surely be visiting the parade. A better idea is to have a simple float that depicts the Crucifixion. Don't make the float too bloody, but instead, focus on the positive notes. For instance, make sure there are people on the float that represent Mary and his disciples, and consider having angelic songs play over loudspeakers.
Some organizations will transport your boat directly from the water.
Ocean accessibility and miles of coastline make Brevard, Florida a superb boating location. But if your love of seamanship no longer justifies the annoyance of docking and transporting your boat each year, consider donating your vessel to charity. Charitable organizations such as Action Donation and Boats for Causes offer free pickup for donated boats. They will also repair or refurbish the vessel before selling it at auction and donating the proceeds to charity.
Instructions
1. Select the organization where you want to donate your boat. Each organization has different policies and procedures regarding pickup and value assessment, but most will pick up the boat from your home, some even directly from the dock, within one week of submitting your donation form. Confirm the authenticity of organization with the IRS charitable directory (see resources).
2. Go to the organization's home website and click on the heading "donate a boat now," or a similarly worded heading such as "donate a vehicle." If the organization accepts all types of vehicles, click on the "boat donation" box. Your screen should now display a donation form.
3. Write your contact information, boat description and registration number in the space provided. Submit the form and wait for a phone call from a donation agent. Most organizations will contact you within 48 hours of submitting your form to arrange a pickup time and location.
4. Meet the pickup crew at your house or wherever your boat is located. Give the crew leader the boat title, registration and other useful materials such as the owner's manual or warranties. If you do not have a license for your boat, expect a 30-day waiting period for the Florida Bureau of Vessels and Vehicles to approve your application. Registration and title forms are available through your local tax collector's office. Before leaving, the crew leader should provide you with a receipt for your donation. Keep your receipt to ensure an appropriate deduction when you file your taxes.
Tags: your boat, Brevard Florida, crew leader, directly from, donation form, organizations will
There are several different methods by which it can be determined whether or not a cow or a heifer is pregnant. Verifying pregnancy in a cow allows for proper veterinary care to be prescribed. Cows have special requirements for nutrition and care during pregnancy. There are five reliable methods for detecting an early pregnancy in cows. These are rectal palpation, pregnancy associated protein, examination by ultrasound, hormone measurements and not returning to oestrus.
Rectal Palpation
Rectal palpation offers an immediate diagnostic result. Accuracy can reach as high as 95 percent, but depends on the practitioner's experience. Rectal palpation will allow a diagnosis at between one and three months of pregnancy. Symptoms experienced during this procedure include a corpus luteum that is palpable on the ovary, a decrease in the tone of the pregnant uterine horn and an asymmetry between the uterine horns. During the later months of the pregnancy, the foetus may also be palpable.
Pregnancy Associated Protein
Early Conception Factor (ECF) involves the test of glycoprotein associated with pregnancy being detected in a blood sample. Within 48 hours of conception, this test is capable of determining pregnancy. This method of determining pregnancy in a cow is often used for indicating conception early on in the pregnancy.
Examination by Ultrasound
Ultrasound is capable of being 99 percent accurate, which enables problems relating to fertility to be identified and dealt with quickly. The speed of the ultrasound approaches that of the rectal palpation, but ultrasound delivers more information regarding the pregnancy than rectal palpation is capable of.
Hormone Measurements
A functional corpus luteum will secrete progesterone between 18 and 24 days following insemination, and this is an excellent indicator of pregnancy early on. The hormone can be assayed either by way of milk or plasma. The optimal time for this procedure is 24 days following the act of insemination. This procedure can be up to 93.1 percent accurate, but is not as accurate in determining nonpregnancy as pregnancy.
Nonreturn to Oestrus
Oestrus signs are typically observed at three weeks following insemination or service. If these signs are not observed, it is generally assumed that the cow is pregnant. Not all of these cows may actually be pregnant, however, because as many as seven percent of cows that are pregnant will still show some signs of oestrus during their pregnancy.
Tags: following insemination, corpus luteum, days following, days following insemination, determining pregnancy, early pregnancy
Hot buttered popcorn, a box of candy and a good movie are the ingredients for a fun time. The only thing that could make it better is for the movie ticket to be free. With a little effort and creativity, that free ticket could be a reality. As for the bucket of popcorn and the box of candy, well you're on your own.
Instructions
1. Check official movie websites for upcoming movies for advanced screenings and chances to win tickets. Advanced screenings are offered to promote the movie, raise awareness and help spread the word about it.
2. Sign-up online for tickets to advanced screenings. There are many websites online, including Volition Movie Tix, Film Metro and Free Movie Screenings (see links in Resources). These sites have a limited number of tickets, given out on a first-come, first-served basis. Results will vary based on the region of the country you're in. Your movie selection will also be limited to those the movie production companies choose to promote.
3. Complete online marketing offers from different sponsors. Websites such as "I Want Free Movie Tickets" and "Free Movie Premier Tickets" send you free tickets when you complete certain offers from different company's products and services. The sponsors pay for the tickets. When you fulfill the required obligation, the website sends you the free tickets. Examples of companies include auction sites, universities, satellite companies and alarm companies.
4. Establish a special email address for the unsolicited spam that's sure to follow after you sign up for free movie tickets, because correct personal information is required to get your tickets. Once you divulge your address and phone number, you could be subjected to telemarketing calls also.
5. Read the entertainment and metro sections of the newspaper. Frequently, passes for advanced screenings are advertised in these sections. Listen to radio stations for the chance to win passes.
6. Look for opportunities in every area of your life. The organizations you belong to may offer free tickets to certain movies to its members. Teachers, for instance, are often offered tickets to education-themed movies. Businesses of all sorts use movie tickets for promotions. Check-out car dealerships, store grand-openings and real estate open houses in new neighborhoods.
Tags: Free Movie, advanced screenings, free tickets, Free Movie Tickets, from different, Movie Tickets, offers from
You must obtain your associate's degree in medical sonography before qualifying for a bachelor's degree in the same field.
Also known as diagnostic medical sonographers, ultrasound technicians use sound imaging equipment to produce ultrasound imaging scans of body structures. The specialty equipment safely transmits inaudible sound waves throughout the body and records the resonances, producing an accurate anatomical map. These health professionals work alongside physicians to help appropriately diagnose and treat conditions and ailments. Professional training for an aspiring ultrasound technician includes successful completion of a certification program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
Ultrasound Program Certification or Diploma
Ultrasound technician certification or diploma programs require the applicant to have at least a high school diploma. Strong applicants usually successfully complete many math, science and health care classes in high school or at higher education institutions. These classes prepare the applicant for more complex subjects such as anatomy, physiology and medical ethics.
After receiving certification or a diploma, students can register as professional sonographers with the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS), a globally recognized standard for employment in the sonography industry.
Prerequisites for Associate's and Bachelor's Degrees
Independent technical schools, colleges and hospitals offer short-term diploma and certificate programs. To qualify for entrance to an ultrasound sonography associate's degree program, you must fulfill prerequisites in basic sciences, mathematics and other foundation courses. Classes may include:
Anatomy and Physiology
Mathematics
College Algebra and Trigonometry
Physics
Basic Patient Care
Medical Terminology
Sectional Anatomy
Writing Workshops
You must obtain your associate's degree in medical sonography before qualifying for a bachelor's degree in the same field.
Specialized Classes
After fulfilling foundation requirements, you will take more focused classes and learn the practical elements of sonography. These specialized classes might help you discover your specialty:
Clinical Sonography
Cardiac Sonography
Vascular Sonography
Abdominal Sonography
Obstetrical Sonography
Gynecological Sonography
Physics and Instrumentations
Medical Ethics
Echocardiography
General Psychology
Clinical Externship
Pathophysiology
During your senior year, you will apply your classroom studies in actual clinical settings. You will shadow a current, veteran ultrasound technician and have the opportunity to run your own sonographic examinations.
Required Skills
Because ultrasound technicians interact with people of all backgrounds very frequently, you must be personable and able to communicate effectively. Health issues can be sensitive, so an ultrasound technician must be empathic and tactful. As with any medical profession, confidentiality is a must.
Tags: associate degree, ultrasound technician, associate degree medical, bachelor degree, bachelor degree same, before qualifying
The Gettysburg Battlefield near Shippensburg University in Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania boasts 14 state-owned universities, with more than 117,000 students enrolled annually. Attending a state university allows a student the opportunity to acquire a four-year degree at a lower cost than at a larger university. The universities' student bodies vary in size from less than 3,500 students to more than 15,000 students. While all the universities offer comprehensive programs of study, only a few offer doctorates.
Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania
Bloomsburg University is in Northeastern Pennsylvania's only incorporated town of Bloomsburg, near the Susquehanna River. It offers bachelor's degrees in more than 80 programs and 20 graduate programs leading to master's degrees. This university is unique in that it also offers a doctorate in audiology. More than 10,000 students on average attend this university annually. Some popular courses include education, nursing, biology, criminal justice and computer forensics.
Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Indiana University, about 60 miles from Pittsburgh, was founded in 1875 as Indiana Normal School and gained university status in 1965. Its focus is mainly on being a research and doctoral institution. Enrollment is more than 15,000 students, coming from across the nation, several U.S. territories and more than 70 international countries. Criminology, education, business, psychology and communications media are some of the more popular programs of study.
Shippensburg University
Shippensburg University, or "Ship," has an average enrollment of more than 8,000 students, 90 percent of whom are Pennsylvania residents. Located about 30 minutes north of Gettysburg, the university's John L. Grove College of Business was ranked as one of the best business programs in the nation in "U.S. News & World Report"'s "Best Colleges" 2011 ratings. Teacher education, business, criminal justice, applied physics/engineering and psychology are popular courses.
West Chester University
Founded in 1871, West Chester University is the second-largest school in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education and the fourth-largest university in the Philadelphia area. Average enrollment is more than 14,000 students, primarily from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland. WCU is divided into five colleges: Education, Arts and Sciences, Health Sciences, Business and Public Affairs and Visual and Performing Arts. Communication studies, music, criminal justice and history are also available.
East Stroudsburg University
East Stroudsburg University is located in the Pocono Mountains of eastern Pennsylvania. ESU has an annual enrollment of more than 7,000 students. About 75 percent of undergraduates and 84 percent of graduate students are state residents. There are more than 60 bachelor's degree programs and 20 master's degree programs. Education, nursing, computer security, media communications and technology, athletic training and hotel, restaurant and tourism management are a few popular programs.
Mansfield University
Mansfield University, founded in 1857, is in rural, north-central Pennsylvania below the New York State border. It's a small, liberal arts institution offering more than 70 degree programs. There is a heavy emphasis on music, with that department offering five degrees. There is an enrollment of approximately 3,400 students from 36 states and 20 foreign countries. Biology, business, education, communications, criminal justice and art are also popular courses of study.
California University of Pennsylvania
California University's 294-acre campus is on the Monongahela River in rural southwestern Pennsylvania. More than 9,000 students are enrolled at the university, which offers 150 undergraduate programs and 50 graduate programs. While a large majority of students are state residents, the variety of courses also attracts students from all 50 states and 36 countries. Education, applied engineering and technology, criminal justice, athletic training and sport management are a few available courses.
Tags: than students, more than, criminal justice, more than students, University Pennsylvania, degree programs, enrollment more
Also known as inflammatory anemia, anemia of chronic disease is characterized by a low hemoglobin and red blood cell count that is caused by a chronic medical condition such as an infection or malignancy. While it may be difficult to differentiate anemia of chronic disease from other types of anemia, since there are currently no reliable tests available, by working with an experienced health care team you should be able to effectively treat this potentially serious medical condition.
Instructions
Treat Anemia of Chronic Disease
1. Determine if you are suffering from anemia of chronic disease by seeing your doctor or health care team for a thorough examination. It may be difficult to differentiate between anemia of chronic disease and iron deficiency anemia, complicated by the possibility that both conditions may be present, creating a more serious anemic condition. Since there are few reliable tests to determine the difference, bone marrow may need to be extracted to properly confirm a diagnosis.
2. Try to treat the chronic disease that is causing the anemia, which is the ideal solution. One of the differences between anemia of chronic disease and other anemias is the lack of response to iron supplements in getting the red blood cell and hemoglobin counts to normal levels.
3. Consider more advanced forms of treatment, such as blood transfusions or recombinant erythropoietin (a hormone that has been shown to successfully treat more severe cases of anemia), in order to treat anemia of chronic disease. Note that many doctors may be reluctant to administer such treatment due to its high cost and the possibility of serious side effects such as cardiovascular disease and infection.
4. Follow all instructions for the treatment of your primary medical condition in order to treat anemia of chronic disease. That includes taking all prescription medication on a timely basis and attending all follow-up appointments for blood work and medical examinations.
5. Monitor your blood tests to determine if there are any improvements in terms of hemoglobin concentrations, red blood cell counts and red blood cell size and distribution. In addition, you will be able to see and feel improvements in your condition, such as an increase in energy and stamina, a more healthy tone to your skin, less frequent episodes of dizziness or a shortness of breath and fingernails that are less brittle.
While studies show 80 percent of all breast lumps are not cancerous, the emotional turmoil of finding these breast masses can be traumatic. As the awareness of breast cancer increases, researchers are developing different types of medicine to prevent breast cancer. Because many of these prescription medications have shown adverse side effects, women are looking to find an alternative to medicine to prevent the onset of breast cancer.
Instructions
1. Take a cue from other cultures when determining alternative methods for preventing breast cancer. For instance, women in Asian countries have lower instances of breast cancer than their European and American counterparts, leading doctors to look at nutrition as a possible cure and prevention tool.
2. Take a daily does of vitamin B12. Deficiencies in this vitamin have led to nerve damage and, more seriously, anemia. B12 is found in a variety of foods such as fish, meats and dairy products. You can also buy B12 capsules at your local pharmacy to take with a meal.
3. Increase your intake of cruciferous vegetables including broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage. These foods contain a photochemical called sulforaphane that increases the phase 2 enzymes which fight cancer forming chemicals in the body. There has been some success in scientific laboratories using sulforaphane to prevent breast cancer, and more clinical trials are currently being conducted.
4. Drink 8 ounces, or more, of green tea each day. Where there is a high consumption of green tea, there is also a low incidence of breast cancer. EGCG or epigallocatechin-3 naturally found in green tea is an active compound that when administered to a cancer patient has been found to stop the cancer cells from growing, replication is ceased and the cells die.
5. Supplement your diet with folic acid. DNA relies on folic acid for its creation and repair. Studies have shown that taking an increased dose of folic acid can greatly reduce your chances of breast cancer. In addition, an increase in folic acid has been known to help offset the raised risk of breast cancer in women who drink more than one alcoholic drink a day.
6. Add Maitake mushrooms (now in capsule form for easy supplementation) to your diet. These mushrooms have been used for thousands of years in some cultures for their health benefits. A compound called "D-fraction" has been proven to stop cancerous cells from growing and in addition has also shown to stimulate immune cells which help fight the disease.
Tags: breast cancer, folic acid, breast cancer, Alternative Medicine, Breast Cancer With
The female breast is composed of milk glands, milk ducts, connective tissue, and fat. Because the breast is not composed of muscle, growth is influenced by a number of factors. Though girls begin to develop breasts at puberty, factors such as weight gain, age, pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause play a role in the size and appearance of breasts during a woman's life. It is important that a woman understand the anatomy and signs of development of her breasts in order to recognize any unhealthy abnormalities as soon as they appear.
Physical Sensitivity
During puberty, the ovaries begin to secrete the hormones estrogen and progesterone, which allow the connective tissue in the breast to accumulate fat. During this time, the milk-duct system also begins to grow, increasing the size of the breasts. For many young girls, this initial development of breast tissue can be painful. Menstruation typically begins one to two years after breast development has begun, and may also cause a short-term increase in breast size. Hormonal changes during menstruation cause the breasts to temporarily swell. The milk glands also enlarge during menstruation, causing the breasts to retain water, which often results in pain or tenderness; these symptoms dissipate in the week following menstruation. During pregnancy, the breasts and milk-duct system both grow rapidly, causing tenderness on the sides of the breasts and sore or tingly nipples. Any time the breasts grow, the skin stretches, which can cause mild itching.
Physical Appearance
Other than the obvious increase in size, growing breasts often show a number of other physical characteristics. As breasts develop during puberty, the areolae become flat and only the nipple rises from the breast. During both puberty and pregnancy, breast growth can occur very rapidly, causing small tears in the tissue underneath the skin. This tearing results in long, finger-like pink or red scars known as stretch marks, which usually fade over time. During pregnancy, blood vessels are prominent on the breast owing to increased blood flow, and the areolae often darken and may grow larger in anticipation of breastfeeding.
Emotional Changes
Whether the result of puberty, menstruation, or pregnancy, breast size most often increases owing to an increased production of hormones. This fluctuation of hormones often results in mood swings, especially since estrogen production is linked to the production of the "feel-good" chemical serotonin. Some medical professionals believe that there may be a link between estrogen levels and depression, but in most cases, emotional disturbances are mild.
Tags: breast composed, breast size, connective tissue, during menstruation, During pregnancy, milk glands, milk-duct system
Nurse practitioners can prescribe medicine, so they are able to plan patients' treatment themselves.
Nurse practitioners are advanced practice nurses who serve as primary care providers. Some specialize in certain fields, while others provide generalized health care services. The expanded scope of their nursing duties requires an advanced education, such as a master's or doctoral degree. As a result, nurse practitioners are able to work in tandem with doctors or an independent health care professional.
Examination and Diagnosis
Like doctors, nurse practitioners examine patients and take medical histories in an effort to diagnose medical conditions, including injuries and acute diseases. They order and perform diagnostic tests, such as x-rays or magnetic imaging resonance exams, and analyze the results afterward. Nurse practitioners may also diagnose chronic diseases like high blood pressure or diabetes.
Treatment
Nurse practitioners prescribe treatment for patients' medical aliments. Like all advanced practice nurses, nurse practitioners are legally permitted to prescribe medication, so they are able to plan a patient's course of treatment without doctor assistance. They may also prescribe physical therapy or other rehabilitative treatments for patients with mobility issues. Nurse practitioners also monitor patients with chronic diseases like diabetes to ensure that treatment plans are working effectively.
Consultation
In many cases, nurse practitioners consult with doctors or other health care professionals regarding patients' treatment. When serious health issues arise, they refer patients to specialists. Some nurse practitioners work as part of a doctor's practice, so they collaborate with doctors on a regular basis to best serve patients.
Prenatal and Family Planning
Some nurse practitioners provide specialized women's health services, which include prenatal and family planning services. They monitor pregnant patients' blood pressure and perform urinalysis to ensure that pregnancies are progressing normally. Nurse practitioners may also order ultrasounds and other tests to monitor expectant mothers' health, and prescribe prenatal vitamins and dietary plans as well. Nurse practitioners may also advise female patients on birth control options, prescribe oral contraceptives, and insert intra-uterine devices or fit diaphragms.
Preventive Health Care
In addition to treating illnesses and injuries, nurse practitioners also provide preventive health care services. They perform annual wellness physicals for both adults and children, and run screening tests for a variety of conditions. Nurse practitioners also provide immunizations to children.
Education
Another important duty for nurse practitioners is educating patients about healthy lifestyle choices and treatment options for medical conditions. They may help patients plan healthy eating, exercise or smoking cessation plans. They also explain medical conditions to patients and go over the details of their medications so patients are able to care for themselves.
Tags: practitioners also, nurse practitioners, Nurse practitioners also, health care, medical conditions
The state of New Jersey (NJ) provides affordable health insurance coverage to children. The program is called NJ FamilyCare. It's a federal and state-sponsored program also known as the State Children's Health Insurance Program or S-CHIP. It provides children of families who don't have access to employer-sponsored health insurance and don't qualify for Medicaid with access to coverage. The coverage available through NJ FamilyCare is generally less expensive than private insurance. As of February 2010, there were more than 629,000 children receiving coverage under NJ FamilyCare.
Eligibility
To be eligible for NJ FamilyCare, children must be 18 years of age or younger. In addition, family income can't exceed 350 percent of the federal poverty level (FPL). For a family of four, that means that total monthly income can't be more than $6,432 for children to be eligible as of March 2010.
Benefits
There are different Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plan options available based on the county in which you live. Each county offers a minimum of three choices, and some offer as many as five. All plans are designed to offer comprehensive medical services with some restrictions based on income. Services generally include doctor's visits, hospitalization, x-rays, prescription drugs and mental health, among others.
Premiums and Copayments
Depending on your family's income, you may be required to pay a monthly premium and copayments to participate in NJ FamilyCare. Families with incomes below 200 percent of the FPL are exempt from monthly premiums, but only those families with incomes below 150 percent of the FPL are exempt from copayments. Families with incomes at or above 150 percent of the FPL must pay a copayment at the time services are delivered. Copayments are anywhere from $5 to $35, depending on your family's income as of March 2010. Families at or above 200 percent of FPL must pay a monthly premium of $40 to $130 per month as of March 2010.
Applying for NJ FamilyCare
Applying for NJ FamilyCare is free. There's an online application available on the program's website. You can also contact NJ FamilyCare 800-701-0710 if you need help with the application or have questions about the program. The NJ FamilyCare website also provides a link where you can find outreach and enrollment locations available in each of the state's 21 counties.
Plan Selection
Once your application is approved for NJ FamilyCare, you can select an HMO plan option that best suits your children's needs. A list of participating physicians and dentists is provided to you.
Tags: family income, March 2010, with incomes, your family income, above percent, above percent must
Government grants in the health care industry are important to many communities across the United States. The money from these grants assists the set up of free health clinics, funds studies to better understand disease and allows local communities to better assist their homeless populations. Any nonprofit or state or local government would be wise to research federally funded programs to facilitate a better living climate for the people it serves.
Women's Mental Health/Pregnancy and Postpartum Period
This government grant in the health care industry is available for state and local governments as well as nonprofit organizations, independent school districts and Native American tribal organizations. Groups receiving funding will conduct research in the area of women's health as it relates to pregnancy and the postpartum period. The federal government encourages research by funded groups in the form of clinical trials, basic neuroscience and interventions with a focus on psychotic and nonpsychotic prenatal mood disorders. The maximum amount of funding for this grant is slated at $200,000.
Development of Comprehensive Drug/Alcohol/Mental Health Systems for Persons Who Are Homeless
Applicants for this grant must be from a community based nonprofit organization. The purpose of grant funding in this case is to allow local organizations to expand and strengthen programs to help those who are "chronically homeless" with problems of drug abuse, alcoholism and untreated mental disorders. The program provides funding for the creation of private housing in which drug treatment and rehabilitation services are offered to clients on a residency basis. Total funding for the project is estimated at over $11,300,000 with a maximum award of $350,000.
Prevention and Management of Health Care Associated Infections
State, county and local governments may apply for funding through this grant program in addition to nonprofit organizations and Native American organizations or tribes. The purpose of funding is to create a better informed climate related to health care caused infections through research, evaluation and information. Those receiving funding will set about researching health care associated infections--where they come from and how staff and patients may be better informed and create a more preventative climate.
Tags: health care, this grant, better informed, care industry, funding this, funding will
Radiologists are trained to interpret X-rays and other data for diagnosis and treatment purposes.
Radiologists are doctors who specialize in using data from X-rays and other technology to diagnose and treat disease. Sometimes, these professionals administer therapeutic doses of radiation, as well. They are not the same as radiologic technicians or technologists, who are medical assistants who gather the images and other data the radiologist uses. As specialized doctors, radiologists can expect salaries that easily exceed six figures, even in entry-level positions.
Typical Pay
The Bureau of Labor Statistics doesn't provide data solely for radiologists, but it does have data for all specialized physicians, which includes radiologists. The BLS states that, based on 2008 data, the median salary for specialized physicians is approximately $340,000. A starting radiologist should expect a little less than this rate, as he doesn't have as much experience.
Another source, the Salary Wizard website, shows that starting radiologists -- those in the 10th percentile of earners -- make about $274,000 as of 2011. The same website indicates that all radiologists have an average salary of about $403,000, so starting radiologists make only about 68 percent of what most radiologists make. However, Salary Wizard asserts that radiologists in the top 90th percentile can earn approximately $504,000, meaning that a starting radiologist earns only 54 percent of what top industry earners get.
Subspecialties
Radiologists may practice general radiology, but they also can specialize in specific areas, such as chest radiology. Radiologists who are trained in a subspecialty may earn 20 to 25 percent more than general radiologists in cities, says the Fayez website. Thus, entry-level radiologists may increase their initial earnings potential by getting more training.
Number of Procedures
A radiologist's earnings are determined in part by how many radiologic procedures he performs in a given year. The busier a radiologist is, the more he can earn, according to Fayez. However, quality of care is an issue. Because a radiologist has an ethical obligation to give each patient the best care possible, his caseload and subsequent earnings are not limitless.
Location
Fayez indicates that starting radiologists may have the best prospects in rural areas, as these regions provide competitive salaries in order to attract qualified applicants away from cities. Additionally, the BLS indicates that the top five regions for physician compensation as of 2009 include Minnesota, Indiana, Georgia, New Hampshire and Nevada. These states have wages of about $205,000 to $218,000, or at least 16 percent higher than the average for physicians in the "all other" category.
Academic Versus Clinical Radiologists
Radiologists typically work in hospitals and other medical facilities, but they sometimes opt to share their radiology knowledge to prepare future generations of workers. Academic radiologists make 20 to 50 percent less than clinical radiologists, according to Fayez.
Considerations
The BLS indicates that medical fields that concentrate on the needs of the elderly will have the best growth, as more people are living longer and the population is increasing. Radiology is one of these fields. The BLS reports that physicians in the "all other" category saw wages rise by a full percent between 2008 and 2009. Additionally, the Job Employment Guide website reports that there is a shortage of radiologists. This has led employers to offer better salaries to entry-level workers to lure them away from competitors.
It is difficult to assess the true range for radiologists because so many sources misuse the term. For instance, the Radiology Technician website uses the terms radiology technician, radiology technologist and radiologist interchangeably despite the fact technicians and technologists are not doctors. If a source indicates a salary below $100,000, they probably are referring to a technician or technologist and not a radiologist.
Tags: indicates that, radiologists make, starting radiologists, that starting, according Fayez, away from
Medicare provides access to paid medical services.
For millions of Americans, Medicare is one of America's most effective safety nets. The program is designed to provide access to paid medical care for certain segments of the American population. Medicare is federally funded via the American taxpayer. Medicare eligibility depends on many factors. Such factors include citizenship status, age and prior medical conditions. Investigate carefully before applying to the Medicare program. Make sure you are eligible before you start completing extensive application forms.
Instructions
1. Confirm you meet age eligibility requirements. If you are over 65, you should qualify for access to Medicare provided you are an American citizen or legal immigrant. Applicants will be asked to prove their age, so get a copy of your birth certificate if you don't have one before you apply.
2. Get copies of medical records that indicate you have kidney treatment failure. People who are on dialysis or have undergone a kidney transplant qualify for Medicare. You will need to document this fact during the application process. You should have copies of statement from your doctors attesting to your kidney problems before you begin the application process. Many kidney specialists have staff members who can help guide you through the Medicare qualification process.
3. Obtain copies of documents that indicate you are an American citizen. Even if you meet other criteria such as illness or age, you will not qualify for Medicare if you are not an American citizen or legal immigrant. Documents that indicate American citizenship include passports and birth certificates.
4. Obtain a copy of your marriage certificate. If you have been married to someone who qualifies for Medicare, you may qualify for access as well. You are required to be married for at least five years before you can get access to benefits.
5. Obtain copies of Social Security disability payments. Applicants who have been receiving Social Security for two years are eligible for access to Medicare. You are supposed to be automatically enrolled after this time frame. If you aren't, you can contact your local Medicare office and apply for help.
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Prostate exams are important to your health because they can help your doctor detect cancer while it is in the early stages. Prostate cancer is one type of cancer that has a very good survival rate if it is treated early. Because one out of every five men will develop prostate cancer at some point, it is important for all men to have regular examinations.
Annual
Visit your doctor for a prostate exam every year once you turn 50 years old. If you are at a higher risk of getting prostate cancer, then you should begin having regular exams at age 45. You may have a higher risk if your father or brother had prostate cancer or if you are African-American. African-American males have the highest risk of prostate cancer and Hispanic, Asian and Native American males have the lowest risk. Prostate cancer is fairly rare in men younger than 40 and rises each year thereafter. Men older than 65 have the highest incidence of prostate cancer.
Symptoms
See your doctor right away if you experience symptoms that may indicate prostate cancer even if it is not time for your physical exam. These symptoms include blood in your urine, pain in your lower back, hip pain, frequent urination at night and difficulty starting or stopping your urine flow. These symptoms can also be caused by other medical conditions. You need to see your doctor as soon as possible to determine the cause.
Tests
Undergo both the digital rectal exam (DRE) and a blood test called the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test during your annual prostate exam. The digital exam lets your doctor feel your prostate with his finger to determine if any lumps are present. The PSA test will reveal the level of antigens in your blood. If the level is high, it may indicate cancer. Further testing will be necessary because other factors can influence PSA levels in your blood. Statistics have shown that there is a 50% chance of having prostate cancer if your PSA count is over 10 mg/ml.
The PSA is an important diagnostic test because it is possible for your cancer to be located on your gland in a location that the doctor cannot feel with the digital exam. When your doctor does feel a lump, it turns out to be something other than cancer about half of the time. If your doctor feels a lump or if your PSA level is elevated, your doctor may then order a biopsy or ultrasound before making a cancer diagnosis.
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