The Correlation Between The Medicare Crisis & Population Growth Over 65

Medicare provides access to health care for people 65 and older in the United States.

Congress established Medicare by passing the Social Security Act of 1965 to ensure access to health care for people older than 65 or younger than 65 but with certain disabilities. Medicare is funded by payroll taxes, patient co-pays and premiums, interest on Medicare trust funds and general revenue. Rapidly rising health care costs and an aging population make the program unsustainable in the long-run, according to the Congressional Budget Office.

Finances

Medicare is primarily financed by five sources: payroll taxes, general revenue, beneficiary premiums, interest on trust funds and Social Security tax. Payroll taxes amount to 2.9 percent of taxable income (half from the employee and half from the employer), and together with general income funded more than 80 percent of Medicare in 2006. Payroll taxes fund the Hospital Insurance Trust Fund, and the Supplementary Medical Insurance Trust Fund receives funds from premiums and general revenue. These funds pay for Medicare operations and services.

Baby Boom

Soldiers returning from World War II married and established families en masse, creating the baby boomer generation from 1946 to 1964. When Congress enacted the Social Security Act of 1965, establishing Medicare, record numbers of young people were entering the work force, and the government was able to use a small percentage of their taxed income to pay for Medicare for their parents and grandparents.

Aging Population

The baby boomers established their own families in the 1970s and 1980s, creating a second, smaller baby boom. While the average American couple in the 1950s had nearly four children, the number dropped to two in the 1980s. In 1970, there were 4.6 workers per Medicare beneficiary, declining to 3.7 workers per Medicare beneficiary in 2010, according to PublicAgenda.org. In 2010, Medicare covered 44 million Americans and added an average 550,000 per year; in contrast, aging baby boomers will add 1.6 million per year beginning in 2011, according to a report by the Kaiser Family Foundation.

Rising Costs

Health care costs rise faster than either the GDP or worker income, and the Congressional Budget Office expects that trend to continue. This means that as more people retire, costs become exponentially higher as more people file claims that are increasingly more expensive. In 1960, public and private expenditure on health care was 4.7 percent of GDP, but in 2005 the percentage had risen to 14.9, according to the Congressional Budget Office.

Possibilities

A Congressional Budget Office study examining the rising costs of Medicare and the rising enrollment in the program deemed the current structure unsustainable. The study estimates that by 2019 the Hospital Insurance Trust Fund will be insolvent. Assuming that the government will not exponentially increase funding to Medicare, the study outlines policy possibilities to reduce costs. The first option requires beneficiaries to pay higher premiums and co-pays, cutting the payouts that Medicare for which is responsible. The second option reforms the national health care system to reduce the costs of health care nationally. At least one option offered by the Congressional Budget Office made its way into the 2010 health care reform package; by 2013, individuals making more than $200,000 annually will be charged higher Medicare taxes. Congressional supporters of the reform package, using Congressional Budget Office studies, contended that limits placed on insurance companies to lower costs of health care nationally would ease the strain on Medicare.

Tags: Budget Office, Congressional Budget, Congressional Budget Office, health care, general revenue, health care

Safety Awards Programs For Cities

Award are given to cities that excel within the area of public safety.

In an effort to encourage cities to address safety needs and issues, many private organizations and government agencies administer formal safety awards programs. Bestowed upon cities that have made drastic improvements regarding public safety or have created innovative public safety initiatives, these programs provide honored municipalities with a variety of benefits, such as public goodwill and networking opportunities with key government officials.

AAA Community Traffic Safety Awards Program

The AAA Community Traffic Safety Awards Program is open to cities of all sizes. The goal of this initiative is to "encourage communities to address local traffic safety issues in a coordinated and cost-effective way." Each year, AAA accepts applications from municipalities. Towns are asked to describe in detail the efforts and successes of their transportation safety initiatives. Emphasis is placed upon what AAA calls the "3E's": enforcement, education and engineering.

There are four awards given each year, each based on the size and level of success of a city's efforts. The platinum award is given to cities that have achieved "astounding success" within the area of traffic safety. The gold award recognizes projects and initiatives that "demonstrate superior effort" within traffic safety. Silver award recipients have implemented traffic safety initiatives that "demonstrate a strong, sustained effort." Finally, the bronze honors "substantial" efforts in traffic safety.

National Roadway Safety Awards

The National Roadway Safety Awards honors cities, organizations and agencies that have made "verifiable and significant strides toward improving the safety of our nation's highways through infrastructure improvements, operational improvements or program planning, development and evaluation." Distributed every two years, the National Roadway Safety Awards are cosponsored by the Federal Highway Administration and the Roadway Safety Foundation.

Award recipients attend the ceremony in Washington, D.C. This affords them the opportunity to network with Federal-level transportation officials as well as personally accept their awards from senior members of the United States Department of Transportation. In addition, honored cities are featured in the Safety Best Practices Guide, Public Roads Magazine and the Roadway Safety Reporter.

Public Safety Foundation of America

The Public Safety Foundation of America is a nonprofit organization founded in 2002 for the purpose of engendering "cooperation among public and private groups to provide financial and technical support to the public safety communications community." The organization awards grants to municipal, county and state agencies for the purpose of improving public safety communications technology. As of 2010, the organization has awarded more than $13 million in grant money to over 200 agencies in 40 states. The grants are administered by the Public Safety Foundation of America committee, a consortium of representatives from eight different government and safety associations, including the National League of Cities.

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Prepare For A Biopsy

Prepare for a Biopsy

A biopsy is a diagnostic sample of tissue from the body for microscopic examination. This tissue can be from any area of the body. There are many types of biopsies including excisional, incisional, endoscopic, colposcopic, fine needle aspiration, punch and bone marrow. The type of biopsy used will depend on the location of the tissue to be analyzed.

Instructions

Know What to Expect During a Biopsy

1. Ask your doctor if you should stop taking any of your medications prior to the biopsy. Medications such as aspirin, NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications) and Coumadin are medications that can cause excessive bleeding.

2. Prepare to feel a sharp pinch when the needle is inserted during a fine needle aspiration biopsy. A local anesthetic will take the edge off the pain at the point of entry. A needle about the size of those used for a routine injection is inserted into the tumor. Cells from within the tumor are aspirated into the syringe. Ultrasound or CT scan is often used to guide the radiologist during the procedure.

3. Expect an excisional biopsy to be performed where it is important to take out the entire organ or lump. This is the case in organs such as the spleen and enlarged lymph nodes.

4. Anticipate an incisional biopsy to be the method of choice for tumors of soft tissue, such as the muscle or fat. This procedure removes only a portion of the tumor or lump.

5. Prepare for an endoscopic biopsy if the tumor is available through the gastrointestinal tract, bladder, abdominal cavity, joint cavity, mid-portion of the chest or trachea. The endoscopist will insert a fiberoptic endoscope and pinch off samples of the tissue with forceps that are inside the endoscope.

6. Expect a colposcopic biopsy if you have an abnormal Pap smear. The gynecologist uses this close-focusing telescope to view the abnormal areas and remove a tissue sample for examination by a pathologist.

7. Find that dermatologists generally use a punch biopsy to excise a sample of skin tissue. A suture is usually required to close the hole.

8. Prepare for a bone marrow biopsy to be used in cases of some abnormal blood counts. A local anesthetic is used to deaden the skin over the pelvic bone. A needle is then inserted deeper to reach the surface membrane over the bone with anesthetic. A large needle is then inserted into the marrow space of the bone to aspirate the marrow cells. A larger needle is then used to excise core from the bone.

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The Salary For A Registered Nurse In Connecticut

Registered nurses in Connecticut generally earn at least $60,000 per year.

A total of 35,790 registered nurses were employed in Connecticut in 2009, which is 1.4 percent of the nationwide total of 2,583,770 registered nurses, according to the Census Bureau. Like all other states, Connecticut requires registered nurses to hold a license to practice, which involves a certain level of education and passing a national exam. Salaries for registered nurses in Connecticut are generally higher than the national average for this occupation.

Comparisons

Salaries for registered nurses in Connecticut vary by city. Registered nurses in Putnam, for instance, had a median annual salary of $68,640 in 2011, while those in Stamford were making $77,000. Registered nurses in New London had a median annual salary of $71,640; $72,290 in Torrington; $72,480 in Hartford; and $73,640 in Danbury. In comparison, the nationwide median salary for registered nurses was $65,460 per year, according to Salary.com.

Salary Range

Excluding Stamford, where the median registered nursing salary is significantly higher, the middle 50 percent range for this group of Connecticut cities is $62,420 to $81,190. The bottom 10 percent earn less than $56,760, and the top 10 percent make more than 87,770 per year. In Stamford, the top 10 percent have annual salaries higher than 91,800. The middle 50-percent range nationwide is about $59,520 to $72,000.

Types of Employment

Salaries for registered nurses in Connecticut also vary by the type of employment. Looking at Torrington as the most representative average salary example, registered nurses working in nursing homes earned much less than regular staff nurses, at a median salary of $60,800 per year. Torrington registered nurses working in outpatient care had a median salary of $65,940; $70,140 in obstetrics; $71,680 in emergency departments; $71,950 in critical care units; $72,810 in psychiatric units; and $76,060 in operating rooms. The top 25 percent of registered nurses working in operating rooms in Torrington were making more than $82,900 per year, and the top 10 percent more than $89,200 per year.

Specifics

The job search website Indeed.com lists over 1,000 registered nursing jobs in Connecticut in February 2011. Registered nurses are needed to work in cardiothoracic intensive care units, case management, critical care, emergency rooms, endoscopy, general hospital floors, hospices, neurosurgical intensive care units, nurseries, oncology departments, and as patient access coordinators and circulating and scrub nurses in operating rooms. The job postings generally do not provide salary information, although several travel positions are available paying $45 per hour. For networking and other benefits, consider joining the Connecticut Nurses' Association.

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Advantages & Disadvantages Of Hmo

Your primary care physician

An HMO is a health care organization that attempts to lower health care costs for you or your employer. HMO stands for Health Maintenance Organization and it is one of the major health insurance plans along with PPOs (Preferred Provider Organizations) and POS (Point Of Service) plans. The major benefits of an HMO center on cost while the detriments involve a lack of choice in who will treat you.

Cost

A major advantage of being a part of an HMO is cost. The cost of monthly premiums with an HMO is often lower that typical health insurance. Many HMOs also have very low co-payments for services or prescriptions as opposed to the 80 percent coverage that is standard in much health care. Some HMOs also have no deductibles or annual maximums, which can add up over the course of a year in regular health insurance.

Claim Forms

In standard health insurance, claim forms must be filled out for up front medical care, and there may be a waiting period for you to be repaid by your insurance company. Since HMOs do not require that you pay up front more than just the co-pay, there is no wait to be repaid an up front payment.

Primary Care Physician

Having a Primary Care Physician (PCP) can be both an advantage and a disadvantage. In an HMO, you must have a PCP who is part of the HMO's network of doctors who refers you to all other specialty doctors. For those who have never had a constant general practitioner, this is a benefit, as a doctor can get to know a patient longer and develop a good relationship with him. The doctor will also take care of scheduling appointments with specialists when a referral is needed. One of the detriments of having a PCP is that if you have had a doctor you used to see who is not part of the HMO's network, you will have to switch to a new doctor. Also, any delay that occurs with your PCP's referral to a specialist will result in a delay in you seeing that specialist.

Capitation

The concept of capitation means that doctors receive a flat fee each month for every person they cover when they are part of an HMO. This means that visits may be quicker than normal, especially if a doctor has many patients to see. When a patient has a lot of questions for a doctor, this may lead to hurried answers and quickly written prescriptions.

Choose Your Own

When you are part of an HMO, all the doctors that you see must be part of that HMO's doctor network. This includes specialists that your PCP refers you to. Some hospitals will also only use specific HMOs, which means that you will not always have a choice of your hospital.

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Pros & Cons Of Bluray 3d Movies

Wearing 3D glasses can cause headaches or migranes.

More and more current movies are being released on Blu-Ray in 3D, giving you a whole new perspective when watching films in your living room. Sales of 3D TVs are steadily increasing and are poised to reach 10 million by 2012, according to the "New York Post." With this increase in 3D TV sales, more Blu-Ray movies in 3D are bound to hit the market in upcoming years.

Pro: A New Viewing Experience

The primary advantage of watching 3D Blu-Ray movies is the novelty of being able to see the image in three dimensions. Although there is some debate as to whether this is an actual improvement in quality, more and more films are being released in this format. Another benefit is that you can watch these movies from the comfort of your living room instead of having to travel to a theater. For action films like "Tron: Legacy" and "Avatar," adding the 3D element brings the entertainment experience to a whole new level. The 3D effect is created by rearranging the color spectrum to present a stereoscopic image, which gives the illusion of depth. Two separate images of the same scene are superimposed onto the same screen. These images look out of phase and blurry to the naked eye. The color filters in the polarized lenses of 3D glasses bring the light and colors from these images together to form a three-dimensional image as you watch.

Con: Cost

The cost of Blu-Ray 3D players and movies has dropped in recent years, but is still more than Blu-Ray 2D players and movies. As of 2011, a 3D Blu-ray player costs about $400 and 3D glasses run about $80 to $100 per pair. A 2D Blu-Ray player costs $200 to $300 and no special glasses are needed. The price of a 3D television has recently dropped to under $1,000, but is still higher than an equivalent 2D television of the same size.

Con: Glasses

Special 3D glasses must be worn when watching 3D Blu-Ray movies on current 3D TVs. This restriction can be inconvenient. In addition, watching movies in 3D can cause headaches, migraines, astigmatism or lazy eye, according to "Cinema Spy." To enjoy the full 3D effect, you must sit directly in front of the TV, otherwise the images will appear blurry. The 3D images cannot be viewed from a wide angle.

Cons: Not Enough Content

Even though 3D is growing in popularity, there is a limited amount of 3D content currently on the market according to "LED TV." Relatively few movies have been filmed in the format, most TV channels are not broadcast in 3D, and NetFlix and other online movie providers do not yet stream 3D movies. In addition, most current Blu-Ray players are not capable of streaming 3D movies off such services at this time.

Tags: Blu-Ray movies, Blu-Ray players, your living room, being released, Blu-Ray players movies

Medical Advice For Odd Lumps

Medical Advice for Odd Lumps

Finding an unexplained lump or bump on your body can be terrifying. It's only natural to envision cancer and other scary illnesses. Often, such lumps and bumps are actually innocent and do not indicate a serious condition. However, it is a good idea to know what to look for and when to call the doctor.

Identification

Sometimes people discover small lumps on their necks, under their armpits or in their groin areas. According to "Women's Health Magazine," these pea-sized lumps may be lymph nodes, which filter toxins and old blood cells from the body. When you're sick with something like a cold or an infection caused by bacteria, these nodes can swell up, even if the infection is in another part of your body. Usually, this is not cause for alarm, but you should call a doctor if a swollen lymph node grows larger than pea size and the swelling continues for more than 14 days. If it gets very large, your doctor may need to perform a biopsy to rule out cancer.

Types

There are many types of things that cause lumps and bumps on the body. According to MedlinePlus, some of the most common are cysts, which are sacks under the skin that contain fluid or a partially liquid substance; warts, which are skin viruses that produce hard bumps; boils, which are painful bumps; abscesses, which are lumps caused by infected liquid that is trapped in the body; and fatty lumps called lipomas that develop under the skin. However, it can be difficult for the average person to recognize the difference between a benign lump and something troubling. As such, it's smart to inform your doctor of any strange lumps you develop, letting her decide whether an examination is necessary.

Considerations

Sometimes a lump or bump crops up on a person's foot. According to "Women's Health Magazine," this may be a simple bunion, which is caused by an overgrowth of bone or tissue around the joint area. You can use home remedies to combat the pain and swelling, but you should call your doctor if the pain and swelling persist. An unexplained lump may also be a corn, which is thickened skin that results from frequent pressure or friction.

Misconceptions

It is a misconception that the size of the lump indicates whether it is benign or serious. The truth is even very small lumps can mean cancer or infection. If you discover a small, marble-like lump, however, it may be a benign cyst or even a small lump of fat cells. Usually, they go away on their own. If it persists for more than 60 days, even if it remains small, contact your doctor. Also, let your doctor know if it increases in size. According to WebMD, any soreness, discoloration and pus also should also stimulate a call to a physician, since these symptoms may indicate an infection.

Warning

Some types of lumps warrant a visit to your doctor as soon as possible. For example, lumps in the breast require a visit to the doctor to rule out cancerous tumors. The same goes for lumps in the armpit, a common location for the early detection of breast cancer. According to MedlinePlus, a swollen lymph node in this area may indicate a drainage problem that could be related to breast cancer. According to WebMD, lumps in testicles should also be examined by a doctor to rule out cancer.

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Enhance Breasts Nonsurgically

Do you desire the look of larger breasts without paying the high cost of surgical enhancements? You are not alone in your quest. There many options to get your desired look without undergoing potentially life-threatening surgery.

Instructions

1. Wear breast enhancing bras. Pick bras with thicker padding to help create a bustier appearance. Popular styles include padded push up bras and bras specifically designed to lift and squeeze the breasts.

2. Use silicone inserts. Place the inserts into the bottom of your bra to create the appearance of fuller breasts. Experiment with different insert sizes and shapes to find the style that is right for you.

3. Choose clothing with that features flattering cuts. For example, shirts and dresses with V-lines may work wonders to enhance your breasts and cleavage. Experiment with different clothing styles and lines to find what works best for your body type.

4. Try breast enhancement creams and pills. These products work to stimulate breast tissue growth. There are many varieties and strengths from which to choose. Monitor for signs of swelling and irritation due to use of these products.

5. Exercise your chest. Perform exercises like push ups to work the underlying pectoral muscles. These types of exercises give the breasts a fuller and firm appearance.

6. Eat a high fat diet.

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Government Grant For Energy Efficiency

Energy efficient lightbulb

The Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 developed a program to allocate federal funds for energy savings entitled Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grants. The Obama Administration expanded this program, increasing available funding through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009, while maintaining strict eligibility requirements.

Background

The 2007 Security Act intended funds to be used to achieve local-level energy efficiency goals for public buildings and public transportation, permitting funds to be used for design, operations, redevelopment of building codes, synchronization of traffic signals, and pilot programs testing the effectiveness of solar, wind, fuel and biomass energy sources.

Features

ARRA made $3.2 billion available to U.S. states, counties, cities, tribes and territories. Only government entities received funding and allocations were based upon population size and job losses. While the Security Act intended energy efficiency to be a subset of a comprehensive energy policy that included fossil fuels, ARRA expanded the program to include workforce training to conduct energy audits and create green jobs.

Time Frame

Each entity receiving funds had to allocate some funds through formula grants and other funds through competitive bid processes. Most of the formulas were allocated by late 2009, early 2010 and competitive bids have already been received for ARRA funding, with project decisions pending. Thus, ARRA funding will be exhausted by the end of 2011, but other funding can always continue through annual appropriation bills.

Benefits

HVAC equipment used in large buildings.

Ohio, a state with high manufacturing job losses during the recession, received $8.2 million under the program. Ohio's City of Athens used $362,000 to replace HVAC systems and motors at a waste-water treatment plant; the City of Kent spent $501,517 to upgrade HVAC and automation systems (including vending machines) at 10 city buildings. The State of Colorado was one of few that instituted a rebate program to cover, albeit partially, purchase and installation costs of renewable energy generating equipment for homeowners and businesses.

Expert Insight

According to research conducted in preparation for the International Online Conference's "How Online Education Gets Green Jobs", most of the Block Grant funding has already been allocated and spent as of May 2010. Schools, government offices and public housing all received funds to improve heating and cooling efficiency. Short-term jobs were created for contractors and future energy costs are expected to be lower for many government buildings, benefiting communities. However, creating long-term job growth was not achieved.

Tags: already been, ARRA funding, Energy Efficiency, energy efficiency, funds through, funds used, Security intended

Staffing Software For Hospitals

Different types of hospital staffing software meet different needs.

Hospital staffing software helps hospitals manage shifts more effectively. This software ensures you will always have adequate staffing coverage. Hospital staffing software also lets your employees check their schedules from any computer at any location.

Function

Hospital staffing software can automatically record an employee's absence when she calls in sick. The software can then suggest the best person to replace the sick employee.

Features

Hospital staffing software can include different modules. A component can be the employee profile, which shows the employee's name, job title and date of hire. Hospital staffing software can also include an employee schedule module. The employee can use the software to find out if the hospital has overtime opportunities. The employee can also ask for time off or vacation time.

Applications

Hospital staffing software can work with both large and small hospitals. It can also work with rehabilitation facilities and nursing homes.

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Structure Of The Breast

Milk Production

The primary purpose of the female breast is the production of milk for offspring. Lobules are structures within the breast that produce milk once the hormones of pregnancy, labor and delivery trigger the production to begin. The milk travels through ducts until it reaches the nipple where it exits the body. Although breasts vary in size, the structures that produce and transport milk are generally the same size in most women.

Extrernal Characteristics

The external characteristics of the female breast include the nipple, areola and surrounding tissue. The nipple is at the center of the breast and contains highly sensitive nerve endings. This is where the milk comes out. The areola is the darker flesh that surrounds the nipple. When an infant latches onto his mother for milk, he takes in the nipple and at least part of the areola into his mouth.

The surrounding tissue of the female breast grows during puberty (as does the areola and nipple) and varies greatly in size among mature females. The male breast lacks the abundance of surrounding tissue that the female breast possesses. Males have areolas and nipples, but they generally are smaller than those of a female.

Other Internal Characteristics

Besides milk producing structures, breasts primarily contain fat and connective tissue. Connective tissue within the breast is called stroma. There are no muscles or bones within the breasts, but there are underlying structures. Muscles beneath the breast area are known as pectoral muscles. Bones that lie beneath the pectoral muscles are ribs; they serve to protect the heart and lungs. Arteries and capillaries carry oxygen to the breasts. Lymph ducts and nodes, which are part of the immune system, are found within the breasts and extend upward to the armpit areas.

Tags: female breast, surrounding tissue, pectoral muscles, that produce, within breast, within breasts

Open A Day Care In Tennessee

Tennessee day care licenses are designed to protect children.

As long as parents are required to work, there will be a need for day care or child care centers, whether they are home centers or larger facilities. The state of Tennessee requires that all child care facilities be licensed by the state's Department of Human Services. Fortunately, the state wants the facilities to be successful, so they have clear rules and regulations, and staff members in place to assist with the licensing process. Ultimately, the purpose of licensing the centers is to protect the children, according to the Tennessee Department of Human Services.

Instructions

1. Obtain day care license forms, such as fingerprinting/background check forms, from the Tennessee Department of Human Services, either in person or via the state's website.

2. Read the summary of licensing requirements that applies to the type of day care you wish to provide: family home, group home or child care center. Read also the licensure rules for each of these types of child care agencies at the Tennessee Secretary of State's web site.

3. Contact your local child care licensing office next, according to the Department of Human Services website. Each county in the state is assigned to one of 12 offices. Choose the office associated with the county in which the child care facility will be located. They will give you the primary application form and assist you in the steps necessary to obtain licensing.

The applicant, and the individual who will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the facility if governed by a board of directors or trustees, must attend one pre-application training session that is provided by the Department of Human Services, according to Own a Daycare.com. The same individuals, or the directors/mangers, must also attend a four-hour pre-service orientation training provided by the department.

During the application process, you will need to fully describe the center's operational plan, staffing, policies and procedures, facilities, meals and much more.

4. While going through the application process, it will be necessary to obtain general liability, automobile liability (if travel is involved) and medical payment insurance coverage for the facility. Background checks on all staff members will be required as well. A temporary license may be issued for the first 120 days to allow time for the facility to come into full compliance, at which time an evaluation will be performed to determine if a license will be issued. You will need to renew your license each year.

5. Read the requirements on DHS's website regarding the Child Care Report Card (mandatory) and Star Quality Program (voluntary). The report card for family day care is based on five factors: caregivers' training and education; compliance history; parent and family involvement; business management practices and program assessment based on on-site observation, according to the DHS. In the voluntary program, one to three stars are awarded to providers who exceed state standards. In both cases, parents will be able to see the results of these assessments, so achieving the highest rating possible can be a key factor in running a successful business.

6. The Child Care Resource & Referral Tennessee Network provides resources for child care facilities, including video training on greeting and departing, meals and snacks, toileting and diapering, and more.

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Independent Living Projects

Taking the elderly on shopping trips can help them maintain independence.

An unfortunate aspect of modern society is that older citizens, who in the past would have stayed with their family as they got older, are often now placed in retirement or nursing homes. If you are teaching a class in which you want to teach your students about empathy and volunteerism, you can have them carry out projects designed to help the elderly in the community maintain their independence.

Big Button Drive

One of the many problems that the elderly face as they get older is that many of the gadgets we all use become harder for them to use. This is in part because of problems with eyesight, but it can also happen because of hand tremors or arthritis. One project your kids could do is to gather funds to help buy the elderly in the community TV remotes and phones that have extra-large buttons.

Carpool Shopping

Have your kids create a program in which young adults sign up to take elderly neighbors to the grocery store. They don't have to make a special trip to do this, but can instead offer to take their neighbor to the store when they themselves are going. The kids can create sign-up sheets for the elderly and people who can take them and pass these around the neighborhood, providing contact information.

Yard Work

Another problem that the elderly often have that can cause them to give up their home is maintaining their yard. Your kids can create a program in which they and other kids in the neighborhood provide free yard help for the elderly. Although they cannot do complex landscaping work, they can offer to do simple things like cutting the grass or raking up leaves.

Coupon Drive

Since many of the elderly are forced to live on fixed incomes, they can sometimes have a hard time making ends meet. They are sometimes forced to make choices between things like food, medicine or heat. One way your kids could help is to set up a coupon repository, perhaps at the local library. Kids will gather coupons and add them to this repository. It will make it easier to organized the types of coupons into separate folders. The elderly can then help themselves.

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State Of Illinois Health Insurance Laws

Health insurance laws in Illinois dictate eligibility, premiums and coverage for state residents who purchase insurance plans either individually or through their employer or union. Some of the laws favor the patient, allowing her certain rights in their health care coverage. Other laws give the insurance companies the right to exclude certain patients from coverage. The laws are subject to change under the 2010 Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act signed by President Barack Obama.

Eligibility

Under the current law as of 2010, private health insurance companies can determine their own rules for which applicants can purchase individual health policies either privately or through their employer. Insurance companies can reject applicants for any reason. Exceptions include newborns, who are guaranteed coverage under their parents' policy for the first 30 days after birth. Disabled, dependent children also are guaranteed coverage if their parents have a policy that provides for coverage of dependents.

Benefits

There is no law that requires standardized health plans in Illinois. However, insurers must cover certain medical procedures. Diabetes care and mammogram screenings are examples, as is continuous prenatal care for pregnant women. Insurers also must apply the same coverage limits and maximums to mental health conditions as they do to physical conditions.

Pre-existing Conditions

Insurers can review an applicant's medical history for the previous 24 months to uncover any pre-existing conditions that might affect the applicant's coverage. If insurers find a condition they can refuse to cover that condition for the first two years of the policy. Alternatively, if they choose, they can add the condition to the policy's "elimination rider." An elimination rider is an amendment to the insurance contract that means the insurer will never be liable for covering the condition. Pregnancy is among the pre-existing conditions that insurers will consider.

Premiums

Private health insurers in Illinois can set rates of their own choosing, with no state-imposed limits. The idea is for market competition to keep premiums down. The applicant's age, health and the type of plan he desires are factors in determining individual premium rates.

5. Renewal

When individuals seek to renew their insurance policy, the insurer has the right to raise their premiums for any reason. However, the insurer cannot cancel a policy in the event of illness at the time of renewal.

Unemployment Protection

Two federal laws--the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act and the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act--allow individuals to retain their health insurance policy if they change jobs, lose their job or lose their coverage for other reasons (excluding fraud or nonpayment of premiums). Illinois residents have full access to coverage under these laws.

New Law

The federal insurance law that passed through Congress in March 2010 will have implications for all states, including Illinois. Most of the changes will go into effect between 2010 and 2014. The law requires all citizens to purchase insurance, either individually or through an employer, or pay a penalty. It also requires insurers to guarantee coverage and renewals regardless of pre-existing conditions. An individual's premiums would be affected only by the following factors: age, number of family members in the policy, tobacco use and location. Rates for tobacco users can exceed rates for non-tobacco users by no more than 50 percent.

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Government Spending On Breast Cancer Treatment

Government Spending on Breast Cancer Treatment

New U.S. cases of breast cancer have increased about 1 percent per year since 1940. The total costs of pain and suffering for individuals and their families affected by breast cancer can't be given a price tag, but total U.S. government investment in treating and researching treatments for breast cancer is in the billions.

Hospital Costs

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services data show that total U.S. hospital expenses for breast cancer treatment were $1.6 billion in 2003. A major share of the costs is borne by public health programs such as Medicare and Medicaid.

Breast Cancer Prevalence

The American Cancer Society projected that there would be about 192,000 new cases of breast cancer in women in 2009. Though much less prevalent, breast cancer can also strike men. Worldwide, some 1.3 million new cases of breast cancer were projected in 2007.

Financial Costs of Treatment

According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer accounted for $3.2 billion in Medicare fee-for-service cancer payments in 2006. Medicaid, a state-managed public health insurance program for low-income people, also picks up a large share of the treatment costs.

Research Funding

Growing awareness both nationally and globally of breast cancer has led to substantial government investments in research and screening. The National Cancer Institute was founded in 1971 to research cancer, and its initial appropriation for breast cancer research was $6.7 million. In 2009, the NCI's total spending on breast cancer was $572 million.

Funding for Screening

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention receives a $202 million annual appropriation for breast and cervical cancer screening.

Tags: breast cancer, cases breast, cases breast cancer, American Cancer, American Cancer Society

Are There Visual Symptoms Of Thyroid Disease

The thyroid gland helps to control the metabolism of the entire body. Thyroid conditions, such as Graves' disease, hypothyroidism (underactive), hyperthyroidism (overactive) and Hashimoto's disease, can cause many different symptoms. While symptoms like fatigue and digestive problems are not obvious, some of the symptoms are visual, making thyroid disease more noticeable.

Enlargement

Many thyroid conditions can cause a goiter (enlargement) of the thyroid gland. This shows as a lump or swelling of the neck.

Nodules

Thyroid disease can cause nodules to grow on the gland and some can be visible. Though most thyroid nodules are benign, they should be checked by a physician to make sure they aren't cancerous.

Weight Change

Hypothyroidism can cause weight gain that is difficult to take off. Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, can bring on rapid weight loss.

Skin and Hair

Hypothyroidism can cause dry skin and hair. Hyperthyroidism can actually make the hair fine and brittle.

Other Symptoms

An imbalance of the thyroid can also trigger depression, which can be visible to some. Graves' disease can cause one or both of the eyes to bulge.

Tags: disease cause, Graves disease, Hypothyroidism cause, thyroid gland

What Is Transfer Of Title

A transfer of title involves the legal transfer of property ownership from one entity or individual to another. Title transfers most commonly occur when vehicle ownership changes. Each state has different requirements for transferring ownership of vehicles. Check with your state regulations before initiating a title of transfer.

Common Title Transfer Scenarios

You will encounter a title transfer when selling or purchasing a vehicle. Also, if the car was bought with a loan, a title transfer will initiate after full payment of the loan. Other scenarios of title transfer include vehicle donations, inheriting a vehicle, correcting the legal name of an owner, transferring ownership of a vehicle to a family member, repossession of vehicles and junking or scrapping your vehicle for parts.

Application for Transfer

Each state's department of motor vehicles has a different form, but several commonalities exist among them. You will need to provide the title data, owner's information, VIN number, vehicle information, lien holder's information, odometer reading and insurance certification.

Bill of Sale

Some states require a bill of sale during the title transfer process, but it is not always necessary. However, it is good practice to obtain or create one when buying or selling a vehicle. Include the following information on the bill of sale: name, address, and signature of the buyer and seller; date of purchase; purchase price; and VIN, make, model and year of the car.

Registration

Take the Application for Transfer and the bill of sale to your state's department of motor vehicles to formalize the title transfer. Also, be prepared to pay for the registration, plates and any applicable sales taxes.

Tags: title transfer, bill sale, Application Transfer, department motor, department motor vehicles, Each state

Genetic Testing For Hearing Loss

Half of hearing loss cases are due to genetic causes.

Deleterious changes in genes are the cause of many different kinds of human disorders. These genes are inherited from the mother and father and result from a chance mutation. Though genetic disorders can usually be diagnosed from symptoms, genetic testing is important for exploring the root cause of certain disorders.

Genetic Causes

According to the National Institute of Deafness and Other Communicative Disorders, half of the 4,000 infants born deaf every year have a genetic disorder; the remaining cases are either non-genetic or unknown. Of the genetic cases, 70 percent are due to recessive traits (meaning that two recessive copies need to be inherited), 15 percent are due to dominant traits (requiring only one dominant copy) and the remaining 15 percent include other forms of inheritance. Ninety percent of infants with hearing loss are born to parents who can hear.

Non-Syndromic and Syndromic

Genetic hearing loss can be divided into two main categories. Non-syndromic hearing loss, which constitutes two thirds of all genetic causes, is not associated with other signs and symptoms. Syndromic hearing loss makes up the other third, and it is accompanied by abnormalities in other parts of the body.

Genes

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the gene GJB2 is the largest cause of genetic hearing loss. It encodes for a protein called Connexin 26, which helps change sound in the air to nerve signals in the brain within the cochlea of the ear. There are more than 400 known genetic causes of hearing loss, but GJB2 alone is estimated to be responsible for about half of all recessive cases and one third of total cases of hearing loss.

Genetic Testing

GJB2 is non-syndromic in nature. The remaining non-syndromic cases are caused by 13 dominant genes and eight recessive genes. Genetic testing involves sequencing these regions to discover the particular changes that led to the hearing loss. Knowing which genes contribute to a function is critical because researchers must know how any deviation in genetic code can interfere with the operation of a protein.

Mitochondrial DNA

Most DNA is found in the nucleus of the cell, but a number of syndromic disorders are mitochondrial conditions. These conditions originate and involve testing DNA found in the mitochondria where energy is produced rather than the nucleus. Mitochondrial DNA is inherited solely from the mother and not in any way from the father.

Tags: hearing loss, from mother, genetic causes

Identify Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is a disease of the skin that causes it to lose its ability to grow naturally. There are over 1.3 million Americans who are diagnosed with skin cancer each year.

Instructions

1. Healthy skin cells are able to divide in an orderly fashion into order to replace the dead cells and grow new skin for the body. When the cells are not healthy, they will grow out of control and form a tumor. A tumor can be considered benign or malignant, with a benign tumor being limited to a few cell layers and does not spread to other areas such as the organs. A malignant tumor spreads and destroys healthy cells throughout the body, and when it does, it is considered cancerous.

2. There are three types of cancers and melanoma is considered to be the more serious. The other two kinds of skin cancer are called basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. The basal cell carcinoma is a common type of skin cancer that is occurs on areas that has been heavily exposed by the sun such as the nose, and will normally appear as a small smooth bump that is raised. The squamous cell carcinoma occurs on the ears, back of the hands and lower lip.

3. Sun exposure increases the likelihood that a person will develop skin cancer. It has been noted that it is best to avoid direct exposure to sunlight as the UV (ultraviolet) radiation damages DNA genes in the skin cells. Always use sunscreen to protect you from the sun.

4. There are several things to watch for on your body to detect skin cancer early. Most importantly, watch for any new growth on the skin. A mole will not always equal cancer, if it is a mole that has been there from birth. However, any new large

5. Look for a change in an existing growth. If the edges become ragged, the size increases noticeably or the color of the growth changes, seek a doctor's advice immediately. Also be aware of any sores on the skin that do not heal.

6. Schedule an examination with your doctor and ask him to look for growths on your skin to see if there are any problematic or noticeable signs of skin cancer. If the doctor finds anything unusual, he may recommend that you get a biopsy.

7. Obtain a biopsy to find out if a growth is cancerous. The doctor will remove either cells or tissues to be examined further by usually a dermatopathologist.  It will either be done by an excisional biopsy by cutting away the growth, or an incisional biopsy which removes a small sample of the growth. 

Tags: cell carcinoma, skin cancer, basal cell, basal cell carcinoma, skin cells, skin that

Master'S Degree Programs In Radiologic Sciences

Radiological sciences prepare students to enter into the field of medical diagnostic imaging.

Because of the rapid growth of the health care industry, a career in radiological sciences provides steady work for those interested in pursuing this field. Master's degree programs in radiological sciences provide students with the opportunity to enhance their current education and skill level and advance within their careers.

Rush University

Rush University offers a Master of Science program in radiological sciences designed for students who have been accepted into the residency programs at the university in the fields of diagnostic radiology or radiation oncology. These students may complete the curriculum in this program simultaneously while completing residency requirements.

Rush University

600 S. Paulina St.

Chicago, IL 60612

312-942-5000

rushu.rush.edu

University of Massachusetts at Lowell

The University of Massachusetts at Lowell has a Master of Science program in radiologic sciences and protection. Students can also choose to follow the professional science master's option that includes the addition of professional courses that focus on communication and management while maintaining a strong science core. Required courses include nuclear instrumentation, radiation safety and control, radiation biology and external radiation dosimetry and shielding.

University of Massachusetts at Lowell

One University Ave.

Lowell, MA 01854

978-934-4000

uml.edu

Jefferson College of Health Professions

Jefferson College of Health Professions offers a radiologic and imaging sciences program that leads to a Master of Science; this is the only program of its kind on the East Coast. Three track options are available including management, education or the PET/CT track. Students can complete this executive-style program on a full-time schedule in as little as 12 months or they can opt to complete the program on a half-time schedule in 24 months. Required courses include program management, current topics in radiologic sciences and radiologic and imaging sciences current technology.

Jefferson College of Health Professions

130 S. 8th St.

Philadelphia, PA 19107

215-503-8890

jefferson.edu

Midwestern State University

Midwestern State University has a Master of Science program in radiological sciences that is the first discipline-specific degree program of its kind in the country. The program offers three major options: radiologic administration, radiologist assistant and radiologic education. The program, delivered in a hybrid format, requires minimal on-campus attendance. Courses include contemporary trends in radiologic science, leadership for change in radiologic science, financial management in radiologic administration and legal and regulatory considerations.

Midwestern State University

3410 Taft Blvd.

Wichita Falls, TX 76308

866-575-4305

mwsu.edu

Tags: Master Science, radiological sciences, College Health, College Health Professions, Health Professions, Jefferson College, Jefferson College Health

Disabled American Grants

Grants exist for disabled Americans.

More than 43 million Americans are afflicted with a disability. According to the Americans with Disabilities website, a person with a disability is considered someone who has a "physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities." Individuals and organizations may take advantage of the grants that are available for Americans with a disability.

Veterans

Grants exist for Americans who served their country. The Disabled American Veterans Charitable Service Trust, established in 1986, is committed to enhance the lives of disabled veterans. Since 1988, the agency has awarded more than $60 million in grants. While the organization does not usually award grants to individuals, the agency gives preference for long-term service projects that directly benefit disabled veterans. The amount and quantity of grants vary depending on the amount of funds that exist for distribution.

Disabled American Veterans

Charitable Service Trust

3725 Alexandria Pike

Cold Spring, KY 41076

877-426-2838, ext. 3309

cst.dav.org

Voting

Grants exist for disabled Americans to exercise their right to vote. Under the federal law Help America Vote Act passed in 2002, grants are available to making voting areas accessible for individuals with a wide-range of disabilities, such as visual, hearing, emotional, and intellectual impairments, according to the Federal Election Commission website. Under the law, grants are also available to offer training for election workers on encouraging disabled Americans to vote and for offering information to disabled Americans about accessible voting polls. Grants are often awarded for a 12-month project period. Each state is entitled to at least $100,000 annually.

Department of Human Services

200 Independence Avenue, S.W.

Washington, District of Columbia 20201

202-690-5557

acf.hhs.gov

The Arts

The Ethel Louise Armstrong Foundation, Inc. offers grants to established nonprofit US 501 (c) (3) art agencies that assist adults with disabilities. Grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 are awarded to aid artists with disabilities or to promote the arts to individuals with a disability. The foundation does not provide grants to individuals directly, instead the agency awards grants to US organizations that are compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The agency aims to support innovative programs that enhance the lives of individuals with a disability. The agency was founded by Margaret Sloan, the granddaughter of Ethel Louise Armstrong. An advocate for people with disabilities, Sloan suffered a spinal cord tumor at an early age which left her in a wheel chair.

Ethel Louise Armstrong Foundation, Inc.

1482 East Valley Road, Suite 504

Santa Barbara, CA 93108

626-398-8840

ela.org

Tags: with disability, disabled Americans, Americans with, Disabled American, Ethel Louise, Ethel Louise Armstrong

Auto Insurance Adjuster Training

Insurance companies establish claims-analysis procedures to prevent fraud and losses that may arise if policyholders submit inaccurate payment requests. In the automobile insurance sector, adjusters play a major role helping companies assess costs of repairs after accidents. Auto insurance adjuster training teaches participants review policyholders' claims in accordance with laws and regulations as well as corporate policies.

Participants

Training is particularly aimed at corporate personnel engaging in car damage appraisal and claims analysis. These professionals include automobile damage appraisers, insurance evaluators and physical damage assessors, according to O*Net Online, the U.S. Department of Labor's occupational research branch. Other potential participants include material damage appraisers, claims examiners and field liability specialists. Material damage appraisers evaluate the physical deterioration of equipment and machinery after accidents. Claims examiners review policyholders' payment requests to ensure accuracy and completeness. Field liability specialists gauge how much insurance firms stand to lose in cases of accidents.

Academic Requirements

Training providers and employers generally require that auto insurance adjusters possess, at a minimum, a high school degree or GED certificate, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Most adjusters receive academic instruction at vocational schools, completing their coursework with a two-year apprenticeship degree. Experienced adjusters often have a college degree in accounting or finance.

Curriculum

During training, car insurance adjusters learn analyze policyholders' credit information, assess vehicle damage, calculate insurance premiums or awards and gather evidence for court actions. Instructors emphasize the skill set needed for legal evidence-gathering, including the legal requirements adjusters must follow when collecting car damage data. Attendees also learn inspect cars to determine damages; maintain records, reports or files; review insurance policies to determine appropriate coverage; and write vehicle damage repair estimates.

Skill Set

O*Net Online indicates that auto insurance adjusters train to polish skills such as social perceptiveness, analytical dexterity, active listening, inductive reasoning and complex problem-solving. Training also teaches students effective communication skills, judgment and decision-making, service orientation and investigative abilities.

Considerations

Auto insurance adjusters use various software to carry out their duties, a sign of the major role that technology plays in modern insurance operations. During training, adjusters learn to use tools such as claims analysis software and customer relationship management applications. Attendees also polish their skills with credit adjudication and lending management system software, also known as CALMS; document management software; information retrieval or search software; and project management software. Well-trained car insurance adjusters improve their productivity and earning power over time. As of 2008, an auto insurance adjuster earned an average annual salary of $55,760, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data.

Tags: insurance adjusters, damage appraisers, according Bureau, according Bureau Labor, adjusters learn, after accidents

Does Medicare Provide Dental Coverage

Medicare provides basic health insurance, such as hospital and medical coverage. You can also add coverage to your original Medicare plan if you enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C). These plans offer additional coverage, and they are provided by private companies that have a contract with Medicare. You are not required to enroll in Part C, but doing so gives you more options if you need dental care.

Medicare and Dental Coverage

Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) does not provide dental coverage or any additional treatment other than helping you pay for hospital, skilled nursing facility and medical costs, such as doctors' visits and preventive care. The coverage provided through Medicare Part A and Part B is very basic. However, you can have more complete coverage if you add a Medicare Advantage Plan to your original coverage. Some plans provide dental coverage in addition to other medical benefits in the policy. If you want dental coverage through Medicare, you must choose the right Advantage Plan.

Medicare Advantage Plans

Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) must provide all of the coverage you receive in your original Medicare plan, plus extra coverage that is not included in Medicare Part A and Part B. You are required to pay an extra monthly premium to get the additional coverage that these plans provide. Extra coverage that Advantage Plans provide includes dental, hearing, vision and prescription drug benefits and health and wellness programs. However, not all plans include all this extra coverage. You must choose the plan that offers the coverage you are looking for.

Premiums

You need to pay an extra premium for the dental coverage you get through a Medicare Advantage Plan. How much your premium is depends upon how complete the dental coverage that the plan provides is and whether it also includes more coverage besides dental. How much you have to pay in deductibles and copayments also influences your extra coverage premium. Where you live and the services provided, through your plan, can also have an effect. One state might have higher Advantage Plan premiums than another.

Choosing Dental Coverage

To receive dental coverage, you have to pick an Advantage Plan that includes it in its policy. You can look on the Medicare website to find providers who offer service in your area. Your option of getting dental coverage with Medicare depends on whether or not plans in your area include this coverage. Once you find a plan that offers dental coverage and provides service in your state, you can call the plan to enroll. You can also do this on the plan's website or Medicare's website.

Tags: Advantage Plan, Medicare Advantage, coverage that, Advantage Plans, dental coverage, dental coverage, extra coverage

Phd Programs In Public Administration In Georgia

A job in public administration is a direct way to impact your community, be it on a large or a small scale. These jobs typically entail some kind of policy consulting or policy making, and to be well-versed in these skills, a student may pursue a doctorate in public administration. For students in Georgia, there are several options for doctoral programs in this field.

University of Georgia

Located in Athens, the University of Georgia offers a doctorate in public administration and policy. The program also focuses on general governance. This school has identified a gap in the role of academics in public administration and uses this program to fill that gap. Students in this program can enter careers in public service or academia, so that they may train future public administrators.

The faculty is recognized internationally in this field. Fulfillment of the curriculum includes two years of full-time coursework and up to two years of full-time dissertation work and comprehensive exams.

Your coursework is determined by which of four specialties you choose. They are public administration core field, management specialization, public policy field and methodology.

Courses offered include public administration and democracy, policy process, policy analysis, seminar in public budgeting and research methods in public administration.

Department of Public Administration and Policy

The University of Georgia

204 Baldwin Hall

Athens, GA 30602

(706) 542-9660

uga.edu/padp

Georgia State University

Georgia State University offers a doctorate with a major in public policy. It is a joint doctoral program that fuses Georgia State's Andrew Young School of Policy Studies and the Georgia Institute of Technology's School of Public Policy. U.S. News ranked the Andrew Young School 26th overall among graduate programs in public affairs. This program also enjoys a proximity to the state capital of Atlanta.

Completion of the curriculum includes coursework in public policy, doctoral core, two areas of specialization, two qualifying exams and defense of a dissertation.

Doctoral students have a major and a minor specialization. Some of these areas of specialization include environmental policy, public finance and budgeting, public and nonprofit management and urban and regional economic development.

The majority of students also complete a research or teaching obligation as part of their funding package.

Georgia State University

P.O. Box 3992

Atlanta, GA 30302-3992

(404) 413-0000

aysps.gsu.edu

Georgia Tech

Located in Atlanta, the Georgia Institute of Technology's School of Public Policy confers a doctorate in public policy, training scholars in professional work or careers in academia. The program features three specialties, including science and technology policy, environmental policy and economic development policy.

The program emphasizes a strong mentoring relationship between faculty and students.

While it does have some required core classes--determined by the various areas of concentration--the rest of the curriculum remains relatively flexible. Students are also required to choose a minor field.

In addition to teaching assistantships and fellowships that many students receive, the program requires 39 hours of coursework. Courses offered include logic of political inquiry, scope and theory, and advance methods. In addition to the coursework, doctoral students must successfully defend a dissertation. Georgia Tech also boasts numerous opportunities for international study within this program.

Georgia Tech

D.M. Smith Building, Room 107

685 Cherry St.

Atlanta, GA 30332-0345

(404) 894-6822

spp.gatech.edu

Tags: Georgia State, public administration, University Georgia, doctorate public, Georgia State University

Calculate Pension Lump Sum

Some pensions offer a lump sum payment instead of annual payments.

Some pensions allow the owner to either take a large lump sum at the beginning of the retirement or receive equal annual payments. Using present value of an annuity table, it is possible to calculate how much the lump sum of the annual payments would be currently. The present value of an annuity table is a table which shows calculations of the present value of an annuity factor. Due to the complexity of the calculation, people use the table.

Instructions

1. Determine the term of the annuity and the interest rate on the annuity. For example, a person has an annuity that pays $10,000 a year for 20 years. The annuity will receive 5 percent interest per year.

2. Look up the term and interest rate on the present value of an annuity table (see Resources). In the example, a term of 20 years and interest rate of 5 percent is 12.4622. This is the present value factor.

3. Multiply the present value factor by the annual payment. In the example, 12.4622 times $10,000 equals $124,622. Therefore, if the person took the lump sum, he should receive $124,622.

Tags: present value, present value annuity, value annuity, annual payments, annuity table

Massachusetts Colleges For Sonography

Students learn use Doppler instruments and ultrasound scanners for diagnostic medical imaging.

Sonographers work under the direction of radiologists to obtain images of normal and abnormal anatomical structures. Sonography programs at Massachusetts colleges prepare students for a career in diagnostic medical imaging in hospitals, doctors' offices, medical clinics and health agencies. Upon completion of a sonography program, students must pass the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography's registration examination to obtain a license to practice.

Bunker Hill Community College

The Associate in Science degree in General Sonography at Boston's Bunker Hill Community College is two years in length and provides fundamental coursework and clinical experience to produce employment-ready graduates. Students learn techniques involved in performing ultrasounds and identify the difference between normal and abnormal clinical findings in imaging procedures. Courses in the program include ultrasound instrumentation, protocols and pathology, principles of gynecology and associated procedures in diagnostic medical sciences. Clinical placements begin in the third semester to encourage technique and patient relations skill building. Graduates of the program may apply to take the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography's registration examination.

Bunker Hill Community College

250 New Rutherford Ave

Boston, MA 02129-2925

617-228-200

bhcc.mass.edu

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

The Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, also in Boston, offers a Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. The program is offered as an entry level program where no previous post-secondary studies are necessary for eligibility. Students spend the first two years of the program in general education courses, including anatomy and physiology, introduction to psychology, algebra and trigonometry and general physics. The final two years focus on program-specific courses such as medical terminology for radiation sciences, clinical sonography, patient care in imaging and cross-sectional anatomy. Students receive training in all four of the dominating subspecialties of sonography, which include vascular, abdominal obstetric and gynecological and cardiac sonography.

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

179 Longwood Ave.

Boston, MA 02115-5896

617-732-2800

mcphs.edu

Middlesex Community College

Middlesex Community College in Bedford offers an Associate of Science degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. The program includes general education courses, electives and core concentration courses. Students complete courses in English, mathematics and physics while choosing social science and humanities electives. Core courses include the sonographer role and patient care, associated imaging, neurosonography, sonographic physics and instrumentation and cross-sectional anatomy. Graduates must pass the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography's registration examination for licensure in the state of Massachusetts. Admission to the program is competitive and only one out of every three candidates is offered a seat in the program. Students should possess a minimum grade point average of 2.0, demonstrate volunteer work and have an awareness of the sonographer's role in the diagnostic imaging field.

Middlesex Community College

591 Springs Road

Bedford, MA 01730

800-818-3434

middlesex.mass.edu

Tags: Community College, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Medical Sonography, American Registry, American Registry Diagnostic, Bunker Hill

The Side Effects Of Breast Cancer Treatment

The Side Effects of Breast Cancer Treatment

No one wants to be sick--let alone with breast cancer. It's a frightening diagnosis, one that plagues a multitude of women. Fortunately, many cases can be overcome with treatment. However, these treatment techniques can have side effects.

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer occurs mainly in women; however, it can manifest in men. It is a malignant tumor that invades the surrounding breast tissues and advances to other remote parts of the body. Generally, breast cancer starts in the cells lining the ducts, while others begin in the cells lining the lobules. As a result, ductal cancers and lobular cancers develop.

Surgery

Women about to undergo breast cancer surgery should discuss the pain alleviation method appropriate for them. The surgery results in temporary pain and tenderness of the affected area. There is also the chance of infection, allergy to anesthesia and bleeding. Breast cancer surgery sometimes requires incision of the nerves, and the patient may feel numb or a tingling sensation in the shoulder, arm, chest and underarm. These effects generally disappear after a few weeks or months.

Radiation

Radiation treatment is one method of treating breast cancer. Usually, the radiation oncologist will discuss the side effects with the patient before surgery begins. Fatigue is the main side effect of this treatment, which can prolong for weeks, sometimes longer, after treatment is administered. The patient may also experience dryness, redness, tenderness and itchiness around the treated area. Patients are encouraged to exercise proper skin care during this time.

Chemotheraphy

The type of drugs the patient receives determines the side effects of chemotherapy. Like other treatment methods, the side effects differ from person to person. Generally, when the anti-cancer treatment drug affects the blood cells, it causes infection, bleeding and energy loss during and after treatment. Hair follicle cells and cells lining the digestive area also split quickly. Therefore, patients undergoing chemotheraphy may suffer hair loss, nausea, vomiting, oral sores and diarrhea.

Hormonal Theraphy

Tamoxifen is the most widely used hormonal treatment for breast cancer. It stops the body from using estrogen but does not halt its formulation. It can cause vaginal discharge, hot flashes and irregular menstruation. Tamoxifen users are urged to contact their physician should they encounter erratic bleeding. It generally doesn't cause life-threatening side effects but can cause blood clots in the leg veins. In rare cases, tamoxifen has caused cancer in the uterus lining.

Biological Therapy

Herceptin is a biological treatment used for treating breast cancer that is in the advanced stage. Common side effects are chills and fever. In some cases, the patient may experience nausea, vomiting, pain, feebleness, headaches and breathing problems. It can also cause heart contamination, which can result in heart failure. Before administering Herceptin, the health care provider checks the patient for lung and heart deficiency.

Tags: cells lining, side effects, after treatment, breast cancer, breast cancer

Maryland Insurance Liability Laws

Liability insurance protects motorists in the event of an accident.

The Maryland Insurance Administration regulates the state's insurance producers and makes sure that insurers as well as consumers abide by all insurance laws. Liability insurance protects consumers against damages to their personal property, covers medical expenses that result from an at-fault accident, and provides medical payments to others if a motorist or homeowner is held liable for an incident. Property and casualty insurance policies may cover a consumer's home, automobile or business up to the policy's liability limits.

Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability

When a Maryland motorist purchases insurance coverage from an auto insurer, he is purchasing a contract stating that the insurer will pay for medical expenses or damages that result from a covered loss. Losses covered by an insurance company include auto accidents in which the insured is at-fault, accidents where the insured is not at fault and collisions with animals or stationery objects.

Damages paid under an insurance policy are subject to maximum limits. The state of Maryland requires that motorists carry bodily injury liability limits of at least $20,000 per person and $40,000 per accident. Bodily injury liability pays the other party in the event a driver causes damages that result in injury or death. The state of Maryland requires minimum liability coverage for property damage of at least $15,000. This coverage pays the other party in the event a driver causes damage to the other party's vehicle or personal property.

Uninsured Motorist

An uninsured motorist policy offers protection if you are injured or your property is damaged as a result of the negligence of an uninsured driver. In the event you are involved in an accident with an uninsured motorist, you will be able to collect for damages under the terms of your own insurance policy. Generally, uninsured motorist coverage matches the bodily injury and property damage liability limits of your policy. The rule of thumb is to protect yourself for the same amount you are protecting other drivers for if an incident occurs. Maryland requires drivers to carry at least $20,000 of uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage per person, $40,000 bodily injury liability per accident and $15,000 for property damage.

Personal Injury Protection

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage is another Maryland insurance requirement. PIP covers reasonable medical expenses that occur as a result of an accident--regardless of fault. Expenses covered under PIP typically include medical care, hospital or emergency room visits, or disability expenses. Maximum limits are $2,500. This coverage protects the driver and her family members, as well as vehicle occupants who are not family members. Personal injury protection is often used to supplement your medical insurance. It is also ideal for protecting non-family members riding in the vehicle if you are unaware what type of medical benefits they have on their own.

Tags: bodily injury, injury liability, liability limits, Maryland requires, medical expenses, other party

Maryland Hipaa Requirements

HIPAA regulations require doctors to gain patient permission to view medical records.

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act requirements in Maryland relate to the fair transfer of a consumer's health insurance coverage and his rights to confidentiality. Medical personnel and insurance companies have a duty to protect the confidentiality of patient medical records under this law and may face stiff penalties including large institutional fines for violating HIPAA regulations.

Required Insurance Coverage

According to the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, HIPAA law requires insurance providers to extend health insurance coverage to all those who have been insured with another company for the past 12 months regardless of pre-existing conditions. The new insurance company is required to grant coverage immediately and may not impose a waiting period on the consumer. This is to allow continuity of health coverage for those who lose jobs and are forced to switch health care providers when being removed from a former employer's group medical plan.

Obligations of Medical Personnel

Medical personnel in Maryland are required under HIPAA to protect patient information regarding medical records and any information that would identify them in a medical report. Only medical personnel that have a medically relevant reason to view a patient's records, charts and information regarding current care may do so. Medical personnel are required to store patient information through the use of a computer database and are required to use nonidentifying information when transferring patient medical records to insurance companies and other medical institutions.

Insurance Billing Requirements

Health insurance companies are required to use the National Plan and Provider System when receiving and submitting patient information regarding payment and coverage determinations. This protects the identity of the patient through electronic transmission of information and limits what the health insurance company can view with regard to records and care. This also removes the potential for bias in the system by removing any identifying patient information from the decision-making equation. A patient's insurance company may only view medical records to determine eligibility for coverage and to process payments.

Tags: medical records, patient information, health insurance, information regarding, insurance companies

Maryland Guide For Starting A Health Care Business

Starting a home health care business in Maryland depends on the type of services you want to provide. If you want to offer personal care such as bathing, hands-on care or skilled nursing care, the state requires a license. A license will not be required if you will only plan to provide companion care services. You must contact and complete all required forms from state and federal departments that regulate state entity operations.

Licensing

"Personal Care" or hands-on care providers must be licensed by the state. The first step in obtaining a license is sending a request to the Office of Health Care Quality. Include a brief letter with the request that explains your services and general service area. A confirmation will be sent with information about attending a Mandatory Residential Services Agency information session class. At the class, you'll receive a license application.

Business Information

Register your business name with the state. Contact the State Department of Assessments and Taxation for information and the required forms. Do this yourself or hire a professional to search the availability of a business name and file the necessary forms. If you will have employees, you'll need a Federal Employee Identification Number. Obtain the FEIN by calling the Business Specialty Tax Line or applying online at the IRS website.

Unemployment Compensation

You'll be required to register for unemployment insurance with the state. File a Combined Registration Form with the state within the first 20 days after the first day your business begins operations.Complete the form online at the state comptroller's website. The Combined Registration Form will also allow you to register for state income tax withholdingl.

Workers' Compensation

Purchase a worker' compensation policy from a private insurance company or the Injured Workers' Insurance Fund. You also may self-insure to cover workers' compensation needs.

Tags: with state, business name, Combined Registration, Combined Registration Form, hands-on care, Registration Form

What Is Uncompressed Breast Tissue

Bones show up well on X-rays, but soft breast tissue does not.

The term "uncompressed breast tissue" refers to a region along the periphery of the breast that escapes the gentle squeezing action that is part of every mammogram. Because the uncompressed region consists mostly of subcutaneous fat, radiologists often call it the zone of uncompressed fatty tissue.

Background

A mammogram is simply an X-ray picture of the breast. The principle behind X-ray imaging is that structures in your body block X-rays to differing degrees based on how dense they are. Dense structures like bone block a lot of X-rays and show up on the X-ray image as white. Less substantial structures show up as black or gray.

Breast Compression

Since none of the soft tissues in the breast block X-rays very well, getting a good picture can be difficult. A further complication is that the breast varies in thickness. The thicker central portion blocks more X-rays simply because it contains more tissue. As a result, tumors in that region might not be visible on the X-ray film. Compressing the breast between two panels during a mammogram momentarily spreads the tissues out to give a better picture and make it easier to spot any abnormalities.

Mammogram Landmarks

When examining a mammogram, radiologists use a number of visual cues to spot potential problems. A common strategy involves visually segmenting the mammogram into regions depending on how various types of breast tissue show up on X-ray film.

One of these landmarks consists of the uncompressed fatty tissue at the periphery of the breast near the skin. Another region, known simply as "fatty tissue," includes breast fat in the more central areas that experience compression. This area of breast fat lies adjacent to the uncompressed zone and surrounds denser inner structures like ligaments and milk ducts. Radiologists refer to that denser central region on the mammogram as the fibroglandular disk.

Cancer Risk

According to Dr. Daniel Kopans, author of the book, "Breast Imaging," and professor of radiology at Harvard Medical School, the subcutaneous fat layer near the surface of the breast is not the most likely area for breast cancer to develop. Instead, according to Kopans, more than 70 percent of breast cancers develop within the zone that lies within 1 cm of the outer edge of the fibroglandular disk.

However, radiologists must carefully examine that the zone of uncompressed fat for tumors. Although breast compression increases image quality, some imperfections remain. In particular, the outer periphery of the breast often shows up poorly on a mammogram. Even with compression, the X-ray contrast needed to image properly the denser inner structures does not give good detail for the thinner regions. As a result, tumors occurring at the edge of the breast can also be hard to see.

Contrast Correction

Expert radiologists can adjust mammogram contrast by hand on a case-by-case basis to "see through" the dense inner structures without losing detail at the outer edge. Computer-aided mammography also can enhance detail in this region by applying peripheral equalization, a type of digital image processing technique.

Peripheral equalization for uncompressed fatty tissue also helps computerized algorithms identify the breast-skin boundary line. Accurately locating mammography landmarks such as this makes it easier to find differences between right and left breast images that could signal tumors or other problems.

Tags: fatty tissue, block X-rays, inner structures, periphery breast, uncompressed fatty, uncompressed fatty tissue