Treatment For Plantar Fasciitis Heel Pain

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain. The term "plantar" refers to the sole of the foot, and the fascia is a flat band of connective tissue that encloses muscles and separates layers of tissue. The plantar fascia is attached at the center of the heel bone, and stretches across the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes and supporting the arch. Chronic heel pain is sometimes called plantar fasciosis.

History

Plantar fasciitis used to be called "heel spur syndrome" because of the bone spurs that can form. Bone spurs are merely a result of the problem, however, not the cause of the heel pain. The pain of plantar fasciitis is caused by the tearing of the fascia where it connects into the heel bone.

Identification

The main symptom of plantar fasciitis is a stabbing pain in the heel that is usually worse in the morning, or during the first few steps you take after standing up. There also may be some swelling and pain when you push off with your toes while taking a step. It usually develops gradually, and can be only in one foot, or worse in one foot than in the other. A physician can diagnose plantar fasciitis, and may order an X-ray or MRI to rule out other possible causes of heel pain such as sciatica, tarsal tunnel syndrome, Achilles tendonitis or plantar fascia rupture.

Causes

The plantar fascia normally supports the arch of the foot like a bow-string and acts as a shock absorber during walking and running. The rolling motion of the foot slightly inward during a step is called pronation. Some people overpronate, or roll inwards too much, during walking or running. During this excessive pronation, or "overpronation," the arch of the foot flattens out, causing the fascia to stretch too far and the foot to become unstable. Plantar fasciitis is also more common in men over 40, possibly because their plantar fascia is less elastic, and pregnant women.

Other factors can contribute to plantar fasciitis. Part of your risk for developing plantar fasciitis is genetic, related to how your foot and ankles are formed. Being overweight can cause excessive stress on the plantar fascia, as can wearing shoes that bend in front of the toe joint or are too flexible in the arch. Drastically increasing the duration of your runs can contribute to plantar fasciitis as well.

Treatments

If you develop heel pain after an increase in the length, intensity or frequency of running, cut back the activity. Once recovered, gradually build up the intensity of your workouts, and buy running shoes that provide more stability and correct overpronation.

Gentle daily calf stretches can help, too. Lean your hands against the wall and keep one leg slightly bent in front of you, and the other leg behind you and straight, Hold the stretch for 10 seconds, then switch legs. Never bounce while stretching. Perform 10 repetitions twice a day. Also try "toe curls" for 20 seconds twice a day to strengthen foot muscles (see Resources).

Devices such as inclines or half-moon-shaped wheels can assist with a foot stretch, but be sure to follow the instructions, and stop if it hurts. There are also plantar fasciitis socks that use a strap to gently pull the toes back to stretch the foot as you sleep at night.

Other things you can do at home to help alleviate plantar fasciitis is to ice the foot twice a day for 15 minutes each time. You also can buy over-the-counter orthotics to provide more arch support and stability, and avoid walking barefoot, even around the house, for six weeks after a flare-up of plantar fasciitis. If home treatments are not effective, see a podiatrist. A podiatrist can evaluate your gait, and take standing X-rays of your feet and prescribe a physical therapy regime.

Prevention/Solution

A good way to prevent plantar fasciitis and other sports-related injuries is to increase the duration and intensity of your workouts gradually and carefully. Wear a good shoe with plenty of arch support and shock absorption. If you run regularly or long distances, it is important to wear a shoe that is designed for that purpose.

Runners often develop excessive tightness in calves and hamstrings, so they must stretch regularly to prevent any imbalance. Cross-training with a variety of activities also can help prevent the repetitive-motion injuries that can trigger plantar fasciitis.

Most important, listen to your body. Pay close attention to which activities lead to heel pain. Keep a workout journal to track any possible cause and effect of foot pain.

Tags: heel pain, plantar fascia, plantar fasciitis, heel bone, plantar fasciitis, arch foot, arch support

How Often Should A Woman Have A Pap Smear

While many women dread going to their gynecologist every year for their routine Pap smear, the Pap test is a valuable tool in protecting women from cervical cancer. During a Pap smear, cells are removed from the cervix in a quick, relatively painless procedure and sent to a lab to be examined. These cells are studied for any abnormalities. Abnormal cells could be precancerous, cancerous or simply the result of an infection or recent intercourse.

Instructions

1. Have a Pap smear every year during your annual pelvic exam. There are some factors that you and your doctor can discuss regarding how often you should have a Pap smear after you reach 30 years old.

2. Have an annual Pap smear if you are 21 or older, or if you are younger than 21 and started having sex 3 years ago. If you are younger than 21 and became sexually active 3 years ago but no longer are, you should still have an annual Pap smear.

3. Discuss having your Pap smears done every 2 or 3 years instead of annually if you are older than 30 and have had three consecutive Pap smears with normal results. If during one of these Pap smears you have abnormal results or have had abnormal results in the past, your gynecologist might suggest that you return to having annual Pap smears.

4. Discuss with your gynecologist about eliminating the Pap smear test from your annual pelvic exam if you are between the ages of 65 and 70 and have had no abnormal Pap smears in 10 years and have three or more consecutive Pap smears with normal results.

5. Determine with your gynecologist that you no longer need Pap smears if you had a total hysterectomy that was unrelated to cancer.

6. Have a Pap smear every year regardless of age if your mother had contact with diethylstilbestrol while she was pregnant with you, or if you have HIV or a weak immune system.

Tags: every year, have abnormal, your gynecologist, abnormal results, annual pelvic, annual pelvic exam, annual smear

Uses Of A Microcomputer

Micro computers (or personal computers) have almost innumerable uses in modern culture.

"Microcomputer" is the term coined in the 1970s for a personal computer. Until that point, computers had been bulky room-sized electronics; even the smallest models were the size of large cars. The microcomputer has many uses, especially in the home, in business and in the medical field.

Home

Families use microcomputers for education; software can hold thousands of book volumes worth of information. Also, the first portable video games were built for the microcomputers. The home microcomputers paved the way for the invention of laptops.

Business

Businesses took a huge leap forward in bookkeeping, inventory and communication when microcomputers were made readily available. An owner could have years of information at the tap of a button instead of going through multiple cabinets of documents and receipts. Information also can be saved to disks and shared among branches of a business, making the business able to trade inventory and update sales figures much faster than before.

Medical Uses

The first microcomputer (dubbed the "Sac State 8008") was built specifically for storing medical records. Before microcomputers were available, medical records were stored in paper form. Microcomputers make it possible to download patients' medical histories.

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Radiology Clerk Careers

Radiology departments at hospitals provide a variety of tests, including X-rays, mammograms, CT scans, and MRIs, and often see patients who are being treated by several physicians. Keeping a patient's radiology information accurate, up-to-date, and easy to utilize are crucial to the success of a radiology department and are the responsibility of radiology clerks.

Primary Function

A radiology clerk's primary responsibilities are completing information in patient's charts concerning the type of radiology procedures performed and filing patient charts, radiographic films, and test results. They also are required to locate and retrieve patient files as needed.

Secondary Function

In some hospitals, radiology clerks greet patients and sign them in. Sometimes radiology clerks may answer telephones and perform administrative duties such as making photocopies or sending faxes.

Time Frame

Radiology clerks typically work 40 hours per week, but may be able to obtain overtime depending on the staffing needs of the hospital. Because radiology testing occurs around the clock in hospitals, radiology clerks may participate in shift work involving nights, weekends, and holidays.

Skills

Radiology clerks must be familiar with basic radiology and medical terminology to perform well on the job. They must also have good typing and organizational skills and be friendly and patient with people who are feeling ill and possibly afraid.

Training and Certification

Most radiology clerks have an associate's degree from a junior or community college. Voluntary certification as a Registered Health Information Technician can be obtained through the American Health Information Management Association after receipt of the degree by passing a written examination.

Tags: radiology clerks, Health Information, hospitals radiology, hospitals radiology clerks, patient charts

Indiana Insurance For Low Income

The state of Indiana offers several programs to help families and individuals with low to moderate income obtain affordable health care. Depending on income levels, some programs offer free coverage to the entire family, others only to the children. Programs are also available to help disabled Indianans keep their coverage while returning to work. For further information, speak with a social worker at your county's Department of Family Services office.

Hoosier Healthwise

The Hoosier Healthwise program offers health insurance to children under the age of 19, and to families and pregnant women who fall within certain income guidelines. Either the whole family can be covered or the children only, depending on family income. Expectant mothers can also get access to pregnancy-related care through Hoosier Healthwise.

Healthy Indiana Plan

While Hoosier Healthwise does not cover adults in moderate-income families, the Healthy Indiana Plan does so. A family of four can qualify for the Healthy Indiana Plan if they have an annual income of $44,000 or less. The adults who qualify for this program cannot have access to health care through an employer, and must have been without any type of health insurance for at least six months. Depending on income levels, this program may be free or low-cost.

Medicare and Medicaid

Along with the traditional Medicare and Medicaid plans that are available nationwide, Indiana offers several programs that complement this care. Hoosier RX helps low-income individuals with the cost of prescriptions, the State Health Insurance Program and long-term-care insurance programs. Care Select helps applicants determine which of these special programs they can qualify for within Medicare and Medicaid.

M.E.D. Works

Medicaid for Employees with Disabilities (M.E.D. Works) allows Indiana residents with disabilities to go back to work and keep their Medicaid coverage. Previously, going back to work at all disqualified anyone from receiving Medicaid benefits for a disability. The benefits are identical to those granted by Medicaid. The program was designed mainly for those who return to work after being out on disability but who are not eligible for health insurance with their employers.

Tags: Hoosier Healthwise, Healthy Indiana, Healthy Indiana Plan, Indiana Plan, Medicare Medicaid, back work

Free Mental Health Care Plans

Free mental health care can be found.

People without health care plans must seek other alternatives for medical care or advice, especially those who have mental health issues. While that limits the choices for those needing these services, there are places that offer free mental health care. These clinics, organizations and hotlines have all been created for those who desperately need it.

College and University Clinics

Many local colleges and universities provide clinics that offer free to cheap health care to the general public. These clinics can usually be contacted through the psychology, counseling or social work departments at the university. They are run by both medical students in training or doing internships and supervised by licensed psychologists.

Free Clinics

Many states have free clinics that have been set up for those with no health insurance for their mental health care. For instance, the state of Michigan has set up a Department of Community Health that provides free clinics in communities around the state. These free clinics use volunteer health care providers who give the best care they possibly can to people who need it for free.

Find a Therapist Websites

Private "find a therapist websites" like the one offered through "Psychology Today" magazine (see Resources) will help those who can't afford mental health insurance to find therapists who will take them on as patients for the short term on a pro bono basis. The site is a simple database of psychologists by state who have agreed to do this for people who need their help at no charge.

Tags: health care, mental health, Clinics Many, clinics that, free clinics

Information On Mammograms

Information on Mammograms

Mammograms are used to screen for breast cancer. A mammogram is an x-ray of your breast to check for tumors that cannot be felt through examination. Mammograms are also used diagnostically if a lump or mass has been found. For a mammogram, your breast is placed on a plate and another plate is pressed against it from the other side to flatten it while the image is taken.

Screening

Screening mammograms are recommended for women when they reach the age of 40. The National Cancer Institute recommends a mammogram every one to two years. Two x-rays are taken of each breast, one from above and one from the side. Through these x-rays, the doctors can locate microcalcifications, very small calcium deposits that may be an indication of breast cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, the number of breast cancer deaths in women between the ages of 40 and 69 is reduced by having screening mammograms.

Diagnostic Mammograms

Diagnostic mammograms are used to examine suspicious areas or in cases where you have found a lump or there are other indications of breast cancer, such as nipple discharge, pain, swelling, skin irritation or dimpling, thickening skin or a change in the shape or size of your breast. More x-rays are taken for diagnostic mammograms than for screening because doctors need to examine the breast at various angles. According to the American Cancer Society, one out of every ten women who have screening mammograms will need to have additional x-rays taken. In most cases, this does not mean you have breast cancer. Out of every 1000 mammograms, only two to four of them result in a diagnosis of breast cancer.

High Risk

If you are at high risk for breast cancer, your doctor may recommend more frequent mammograms. According to the National Cancer Institute, your risk increases with age: One out of 38 women over the age of 50 get breast cancer. After the age of 60, the risk is one in 27. Other high-risk factors include personal and family history of breast cancer, genetic changes (changes in certain genes), breast density, early menstrual periods or late menopause, long-term use of hormone therapy, obesity, race (Caucasian women are at a higher risk), low physical activity levels and alcohol consumption.

Digital Mammography

The Food and Drug Administration granted its approval for digital mammography to be used in the U.S. in 2000. Digital mammography uses electronic imaging that is displayed directly on computers. This allows radiologists to better examine the images with magnification, enhancement and other adjustments. While there is no difference between film and digital mammography in terms of detection of breast cancer, digital technology offers several benefits. Digital mammography allows the radiologist to share images with your doctors electronically, as well as to store and retrieve previous images for comparison. It may also result in reduced radiation exposure because repeat images are needed less frequently.

Limitations

In some cases, false negatives occur: The images may appear to be normal even when there is breast cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, as many as 20 percent of breast cancers are missed with screening mammograms. This happens more frequently in younger women because their breasts are denser and cancer is not as easily detected. False positives may also occur when the radiologist believes the mammogram is not normal. Abnormal results should be followed up to identify cancer if it is present. You may need a diagnostic mammogram or ultrasound and, in some cases, a biopsy of the area.

Costs

Costs vary among states and imaging facilities for screening mammograms. Most insurances cover all or at least part of the cost. You should check with your insurance carrier about your coverage. According to the National Cancer Institute, Medicaid will cover one baseline mammogram if you are between 35 and 39 years of age. They also cover one screening mammogram every year for women who are 40 and older. Beneficiaries are responsible for 20 percent of the amount approved by Medicare. In addition, there are some state and local programs for free or low cost mammograms. Information on these programs is available at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website (see Resources) or by calling their toll-free number: 1-800-232-4636.

Tags: breast cancer, Cancer Institute, National Cancer, National Cancer Institute, According National, According National Cancer

Topical Treatment For Neuroma

Topical Treatment for Neuroma

A neuroma is a benign nerve tissue growth. Morton's neuroma is a common and painful form of neuroma that strikes a nerve in a patient's foot between the third toe and the fourth toe.

Morton's Neuroma

According to the Mayo Clinic, individuals with Morton's neuroma may experience a burning sharp pain in the ball of the foot and they may develop burning, stinging and numbness in the toes.

Ice Massage

People with Morton's neuroma may use an ice massage as a topical treatment. Patients can freeze a plastic or paper cup of water and roll it across the painful areas of the foot three times per day.

Shoes

Morton's neuroma sufferers may experience pain relief if they wear shoes with extra depth and a broader toe box. Patients may also wear arch supports in their shoes and cover a neuroma with a special pad to reduce stress on an affected nerve.

Other Treatments

Doctors may inject corticosteroids into a neuroma to relieve pain and swelling. Physicians may need to surgically remove a neuroma growth if other treatments are not effective.

Causes

Morton's neuroma usually develops in response to nerve injuries or pressure or irritation on a nerve. People with high-heeled or tight-fitting shoes, joggers and individuals with a history of abnormal foot movements have an increased risk of developing Morton's neuroma.

Tags: Morton neuroma, individuals with, People with, Topical Treatment Neuroma, Treatment Neuroma, with Morton

Definition Of Medicare Plus

Medicare is one of the government programs created to help elderly citizens to pay for medical treatment. Medicare comprises four parts known as Medicare Part A, Part B, Part C and Part D. Each part has a different purpose and a different coverage, and only Part A is free. Medicare Plus is what is mostly known as Medicare Part C.

Identification

Medicare is a type of health insurance for senior citizens. Medicare Plus refers to Medicare Part C, and plans offered through this program are often termed advantage plans. This is a part of Medicare coverage that allows seniors who are enrolled in Medicare to add a private health plan with more complete coverage to their current coverage. Medicare Part C offers all the coverage as Medicare Part A --- hospital fees --- and Medicare Part B --- health care costs --- as well as any other additional coverage that a specific plan might feature.

Features

Unlike Medicare Part A, Medicare Part C is voluntary and isn't free. Seniors can choose whether or not they enroll in Part C, and if they do, they usually need to pay a monthly fee that their private insurer establishes. Whether or not companies charge members depends upon the additional coverage to Part B that's being offered, since members already pay a monthly premium for their Part B benefits.

Enrollment

As mentioned previously, enrollment in Medicare Part C is absolutely voluntary. However, there are specific periods of the year in which enrollment is allowed; these are set by each private company. Plans usually last around a period of a year. If a senior decides to change plans for any reason, he needs to wait until his plan's coverage is over for that year. If the year of coverage is over and he desires continuance, enrollment can be renewed.

Benefits

Medicare Part C helps senior citizens to pay for hospital and clinic costs, doctor visit costs, costs for basic treatments, emergency care and preventive care. Other types of coverage available depend upon the plan that a senior chooses. Certain plans include vision, hearing, dental, and health and wellness programs; other plans include prescription drug coverage. Seniors also have the right to appeal decisions made by the companies with which they've enrolled.

Application

The first step for enrollment in a Medicare Part C plan is to find out which approved companies are available in a specific area. The Medicare website has a list of all approved companies for Part C. After choosing a company and a plan, contact the company, either through the email address provided on the Medicare website or by phone. Fill out all the application forms, send these forms to the company and wait for a notice of enrollment.

Tags: Medicare Part, Medicare Plus, Part Part, additional coverage, approved companies, coverage Medicare, coverage Medicare Part

California Adult School Medical Assistant Requirements

You must be certified to practice as a medical assistant in California.

Not all medical assistants must have certification. Many receive on-the-job training, though they must have a high school diploma. However, certification in medical assisting is usually preferred by most medical facilities because certification ensures you have met certain standards of practice. To be certified, you must pass an exam as well as maintain your certification once you receive it.

Graduate from Accredited School

Succeeding in an accredited medical assistant program will make you eligible for medical assistant certification.

To attain certification for medical assisting, consider attending school beyond high school. Many vocation, technical schools and community colleges offer short-term programs. In these programs, you can usually earn a diploma in one year or an associate's degree in two years. These programs make you eligible for an exam as long as your school is accredited. You may also opt to specialize in a particular field such as pediatrics or cardiology. However, if you received on-the-job training, you may still qualify for the exam as long as you currently work as a medical assistant for a licensed physician. You must also have maintained that employment for two to five years.

The Exam

You must pass an exam to be certified as a medical assistant.

The California Certifying Board for Medical Assistants (CCBMA) issues the exam for those who wish to receive certification as a medical assistant. To take the exam, you must already work as a medical assistant, be a recent graduate of an accredited medical assistant program,or be a teacher of medical assisting. The exam consists of three parts covering basic medical assisting information; administrative information in medical assisting; and medical assisting clinical procedures information. To receive certification, you must pass the basic section and only one of the other sections. You may also opt for a second specialty. The test is given at different locations throughout California in paper and computer formats. The paper test is given twice a year and the computer test is given year-round. Depending on your specialty focus, the test fees range from $115 to $155, minimum, as of 2009.

Maintain Certification

Certified medical assistants must get re-certified every five years through an exam or medical education credits.

Once you have received your certification, you must maintain it. You must get re-certified every five years. You can do this by taking the exam again or by participation in continuing medical education (CME). If you choose the CME method, you will need to earn 60 credits within the five year period. Depending on your specialty, you will need different credits for different categories. For instance, if your specialty is administrative medical assisting, you will need 30 of your CME credits in the basic section and 15 credits in your specialty. The other 15 credits can come from basic, administrative or clinical areas. You can earn credits through membership with the Certified Medical Assistants Association (CMAA). You may also attend local or regional educational seminars that offer CMEs; or earn credits through the CCBMA or through internet and community education courses that cover computer education, CPR, first aid, etc. Be sure to keep records of every credit opportunity and turn them in with your re-certification application to the CCBMA.

Tags: medical assisting, medical assistant, your specialty, certification medical, earn credits, five years

Accredited Radiography Schools

Radiographers utilize X-ray technology to produce diagnostic images.

Radiography is a growing field in need of competent professionals to fill open positions and positions that will continue to open in the future. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects this trend to continue, at least through 2018. The number of jobs is expected to increase by 17 percent by then. Receiving a degree or diploma from an accredited radiography school could give you an edge in this competitive job market.

Midwestern State University

Midwestern State University (MWSU) offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in radiologic science. The master's degree program, according to the school's website, is the only one in the United States of its kind, offering three different concentrations or majors within the curriculum. Students can pursue specializations in education or administration, or become a radiologic assistant. One benefit of MWSU master's program is that it combines distance education with short-term residencies that allow students to complete coursework in a convenient online format.

In addition to the master's degree program, MWSU offers associate's and bachelor's degrees in the field. The associate's degree is designed to be completed in two years. The bachelor's degree program is in the field of radiologic science and is delivered through online courses like the master's degree program. All programs are accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

Midwestern State University

Radiologic Sciences Department

3410 Taft Blvd.

Wichita Falls, TX 76308

940-397-4615

mwsu.edu

Southern Illinois University

Southern Illinois University offers a bachelor's degree in radiologic science. This four-year degree program provides students with opportunities to specialize in one of three fields: radiation therapy, MRI/CT scans or ultrasound technology. Students complete a standard curriculum during the first three years of the program before moving on to complete specialization courses. A graduate degree program is also offered in medical dosimetry. Students who graduate from this fully accredited program are eligible to receive licensing for practice in Illinois.

Southern Illinois University

School of Allied Health

Carbondale, IL 62901

618-453-2121

siuc.edu

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

Fully accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) and the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) offers an Associate of Science in Radiologic Imaging degree at three campus locations: Fayetteville, Little Rock and Texarkana. The school also offers the Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Imaging Sciences and the Master of Imaging Sciences degree that prepare students for careers as a radiologic assistant. Courses offered as part of the basic curriculum include Radiation Protection and Radiobiology, Radiographic Procedures and Radiation Physics.

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

4301 West Markham

Little Rock, AR 72205

501-686-6510

uams.edu

Tags: degree program, Arkansas Medical, Arkansas Medical Sciences, Illinois University, master degree, master degree program

Problems With Breast Implants

Breast implants are surgically inserted to change the size or shape of your breasts. There are two major types of breast implants: saline and silicone gel. Both types can cause health problems.

Range of Complications

Problems due to breast implants can affect your health and appearance. You may experience breast pain, calcification, infection, bleeding, redness, bruising, scarring, hematoma, changes in sensation, rippled skin, sagging breasts, or necrosis, or death, of the breast tissue.

Capsular Contracture

Capsular contracture can occur if the surgery is improperly performed. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, "Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue or capsule that normally forms around the implant tightens and squeezes the implant." This can cause one breast to look elongated and hard.

Rupture and Deflation

After surgery you can experience deflation or rupture of your implants. According to the FDA, "Breast implants do not last a lifetime. Some breast implants may rupture/deflate in the first few months after surgery and some after several years. Others may take 10 or more years to rupture/deflate."

Shifting/Displacement

Your implant can move or shift after surgery, causing a lopsided look. The larger the implant, the greater the chance it has of moving or displacing.

Mammography

Getting a mammography after breast implantation can be more complicated. The implant may interfere with the mammography reading.

Reconstructive Surgery

The FDA states that it is likely that if you have breast implants, you will need one or more reconstructive surgeries to correct a problem or replace implants during your lifetime.

Tags: breast implants, after surgery, Capsular contracture, rupture deflate

Maryland Computer Schools

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the demand for computer support technicians will increase by 14 percent through 2018, resulting in the creation of 78,000 jobs. To work as a computer support technician, post-secondary training at a computer training school, community college or traditional university is typically necessary. In Maryland, there are a variety of programs available for individuals wanting to start a career working with computers.

TESST College of Maryland

Owned and operated by the Kaplan Higher Education Corporation, TESST College of Technology is a private, Maryland-based career-training school with branches in Baltimore, Beltsville and Towson. The school offers certificates in computerized business management, network information systems and network information technology. TESST also grants computer support technician training diplomas, associate's of applied science in network information technology and an associate's of applied science degree in electronics, computers and telecommunications technology. Programs last between The length and cost of each program varies from type to type.

TESST College of Technology

1520 Sout Caton Ave.

Baltimore, MD 21227

(410) 644-6400‎

tesst.com

ASM Educational Center

Located in Rockville, Maryland, ASM Educational Center specializes solely in computer education. The school is holds Microsoft and Cisco Communications certification, allowing the school to teach courses geared specifically to these technologies. Certification courses offered by ASM include the A+/Network+ Combo Training Program, the CompTIA Security+ Certification, the Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) certification, the Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) Certification and the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert certification programs. The courses are held in the evenings and range in length from 40 to 248 hours of instruction. At the completion of the program, students may take the required certification test for each course in ASM's computer testing center. Textbooks are included in the cost of the course, but the certifications tests require payment of an additional fee.

ASM Educational Center, Inc.

11200 Rockville Pike

Suite 220

Rockville, MD 20852

(301) 984-7400

asmed.com

Capitol College

Founded in 1964, Capitol College is a private college located in Laurel, Maryland. The school specializes in computer and technical education with all of its programs culminating in diplomas or certifications in these types of fields. Capitol College offers 10 diploma programs, which consist of four classes taken individually or simultaneously and include offerings like web programming and computer and network security. Courses are offered at the campus in a standard 16-week format or online in an accelerated eight-week form. The school also grants three two-year associate's degrees in computers, electronics and telecommunications and 12 four-year bachelor's programs with majors such as software engineering and management of information technology.

Capitol College

11301 Springfield Road

Laurel, MD 20708

(800) 950-1992

capitol-college.edu

Tags: Capitol College, computer support, Educational Center, information technology, network information

Side Effects Of Optiray Dye

Optiray dye is used to show contrast in X-rays and CAT scans. It is also commonly known as Ioversol. It is considered to be a radiopaque contrast agent. Some patients have reported side effects after using Optiray.

Major Side Effects

If you experience severe muscle pain, chest pain, fainting, labored breathing or decreased urination after using Optiray, seek medical attention right away. Other side effects that are considered severe are seizure, sudden numbness, sudden headache, changes in heart rate, swelling of hands or feet and easy bruising.

Minor Side Effects

Minor side effects that have been reported include headache, nausea, rash and fever combined with pain.

Warnings

Optiray should not be used if the patient has an active infection or has had a previous reaction to a contrast agent. Optiray can cause dehydration, so drink plenty of water. If you have had a brain tumor, recent head injury, epilepsy, clotting disorder or kidney disease, be sure to tell your doctor. The same applies if you have diabetes, heart disease, sickle cell disease, history of stroke or a thyroid disorder.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor about any medications you are taking before you are given Optiray.

Overdose

Signs of overdose for Optiray include labored breathing, slow heart beat and chest pain.

Tags: after using, after using Optiray, chest pain, contrast agent, effects that

What Is The Difference Between A Salary Load & A Salary Burden

Employee costs include more than hourly pay.

All businesses that have paid workers, whether they are manufacturing companies or professional sports teams, have to monitor their salary costs. Two very different indicators of what it costs the company to do business are salary loads and salary burdens. Each is used for a different purpose, but together they inform business owners about the company's bottom line.

Salary Load

A salary load is simply the aggregate total of each gross salary for every single employee in a company, from the president down to the mail room clerk. The salary load gives a business owner a quick helicopter view of how much of the company's budget is being spent on salaries. The figure is also a quick way for a company to compare itself with competitors. Professional sports teams often compare themselves with each other in terms of their salary loads.

Salary Burden

A company's salary burden is a much more complicated figure. It is comprised of any costs the company must incur, not including an employee's gross salary, in order for him to do his job. For instance, in order for a full-time janitor to do his job, there is not only his gross salary, but the company also has to pay his health insurance, payroll taxes, paid vacation, training, personal time, cleaning equipment and supplies. The salary burden is an accurate figure of what it costs the company to have a productive staff.

Calculate a Burden Rate

Any company wants its staff to be productive. Human resources departments often calculate a company or employee burden rate in order to monitor over time whether the company is spending money wisely in comparison with how much money it spends on its salary load.

A burden rate is calculated simply by taking an employee's burden cost and dividing it by the employee's gross salary. For example, if a company must spend $60,000 for an employee to be productive and that employee earns a gross salary of $100,000, then the employee's burden rate is 60 percent -- $60,000 divided by $100,000. A relatively high burden rate can be worth it if the employee in question makes a lot of money for the company. But a business might consider other options if a low-producing employee has a high burden rate.

Considerations

Many companies try to limit or deny employees any overtime work since they have to pay the employee an extra 50 percent of wage per overtime hour. On the other hand, overtime hours usually incur a smaller additional salary burden. For instance, if an employee is given benefits like health insurance, those benefits cost the same whether the employee works 40 hours or 60. It might be that an employee's burden rate goes significantly down during overtime hours, and therefore it might be more cost-effective for the company to offer overtime work to some of its employees.

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Parts Of An Xray Machine

X-ray machines are complex devices.

An x-ray machine is a complex device used in a variety of circumstances around the world. With the ability to penetrate hard objects, they are used for purposes such as airport security checkpoints to see into bags, or in the medical community to look for broken bones or problems within the body. Regardless of which type of x-ray you are discussing, there are a number of components that are vital to the inner workings of an x-ray machine.

Vacuum Tube

X-ray tubes are more commonly referred to as vacuum tubes. They are integral parts of the x-ray machine, and work by ionizing radiation with wavelengths shorter than ultraviolet light. A cathode within the machine emits electrons into the vacuum tube, at which point an anode collects the electrodes and establishes an electrical current through the tube. A high voltage is used to accelerate the electrons, and the current flow is pulsed until the required amount of x-ray exposure has occurred. The beams of energy from the tube are focused onto a visible substance, which is where you view the final result.

Power Source

A high voltage power source is required to operate an x-ray machine, usually between 30 and 150 kilovolts depending on the type of x-ray being taken. The voltage is used to accelerate the electrons within the vacuum tube, and is usually pulsed from 1 microsecond to 1 full second. The high voltage power source of an x-ray machine controls the penetration of the x-ray itself, and thus the overall contrast of the image, with the voltage of the current and exposure time affecting the dose and darkness of the image.

Control Unit

The control unit of the x-ray machine is necessary to manage the current, voltage, and time of exposure. Radiation intensity can change dramatically depending on whether you are using the machine to render x-ray stills of body parts or using it as a security monitor, for example. In addition there is a voltage control with a display, allowing you to make adjustments in the anode itself to change the type of radiation energy being released. The control unit also has a timer to control the pulses and duration of the exposure, shutting the current off when the radiation exposure has been completed.

Tags: x-ray machine, high voltage, accelerate electrons, high voltage power, type x-ray

What Is The Yearly Salary Of An Xray Technician

X-ray technicians create two-dimensional images used for medical diagnoses.

X-ray technicians, also called radiographers or radiologic technicians, use radiation-emitting equipment to create anatomical images used for medical diagnoses. Whether they're investigating broken bones or looking for foreign objects in the body, X-ray technicians work closely with patients, explain procedures, provide lead shields to minimize radiation exposure and position equipment properly to capture the best images. Entry-level radiographers earn $44,500 a year, according to 2010 data from the American Society of Radiologic Technologists. Factors affecting salaries include years of experience, type of employer and geographic location of employer.

Salary by Experience

As X-ray technicians advance in their careers, yearly salaries rise significantly. Those with five to nine years of experience make $30,517 to $53,153 a year, as of 2010, while those who've passed the 20-year mark earn $40,059 to $64,538, according to PayScale. Those with the most experience and highest salaries typically have advanced to the positions of chief or senior technician, or program director.

Salary by Employer

While hospitals hire the majority of X-ray technicians, private physician offices and the government also employ them. Technicians working in hospitals make $30,520 to $49,707 yearly, and those employed in private practice earn salaries in a similar range, from $30,760 to $49,579, according to PayScale's 2010 data. Federal, state and local governments pay the least, with yearly salaries ranging from approximately $25,000 to a little more than $41,000. Most technicians work 40-hour weeks, notes the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and some hold multiple part-time jobs with different employers.

Salary by Location

PayScale maintains salary data on seven states, and of these, California and Illinois offer the highest salary ranges at $41,437 to $53,646 and $40,724 to $50,868, respectively. Technicians earning the least in Texas make $24,613, as of 2010, while technicians making the most in New York earn $55,197 a year. The BLS notes that some areas of the country have a greater need for X-ray technicians than other, and technicians willing to relocate are more marketable.

Job Outlook

The BLS, which tracks labor data for X-ray technicians under the broader category of radiologic technologists and technicians, says the field as a whole is expected to add 37,000 jobs between 2008 and 2018, a 17 percent increase. An aging population will increase the need for diagnostic imaging, which frequently is used to develop or confirm diagnoses. With advanced training, technicians can move on to higher-paying radiologic technologist jobs, which involve working with mammography, CT scanning or MRI scanning equipment, depending on area of specialty.

Tags: X-ray technicians, 2010 data, 2010 while, according PayScale, earn year

Explain Part D Medicare

Medicare is the federally funded medical insurance program for Americans over age 65. It consists of Part A, which covers hospitalization charges; Part B, which covers physician and lab costs; Part C, which allows for access to Medicare benefits through managed-care organizations, and Part D, which covers prescription drugs. Part D coverage is optional, requires a monthly premium to enroll and is administered by private medical insurance companies rather than directly by the federal government.

History

Medicare came about through the Social Security Act of 1965, which authorized both Medicare for Americans over 65 and Medicaid, which provides basic health care services for the poor, indigent and handicapped. First conceived as a basic hospitalization plan under President Lyndon Johnson's "Great Society" program, Medicaid has expanded in scope over the years. Congress added Medicare Part D in 2003, under President George W. Bush's signature, and first began paying benefits in 2006. Subsidies are available for people of low income.

Eligibility

To qualify for benefits under Medicare Part D, you must enroll in Medicaid Part A or Part B. Enrollment is not automatic -- you must specifically elect to enroll in Medicare Part D and do so during the open enrollment period of November 15 through December 31 of 2010. However, the enrollment period will change in 2011 to October 1 to December 7. Failure to enroll during the enrollment period will result in a late enrollment penalty of 1 percent of the average national premium times the number of years you were eligible for but not enrolled in Part D.

Types of Plans

Medicare beneficiaries can select either a stand-alone prescription drug plan (PDP) or choose to integrate their prescription drug benefits with a managed-care plan under Medicare Part C -- Medicare Advantage. Part D coverage is not standardized. Instead, private companies administer Part D benefits according to their own formularies. Plans vary considerably by state and by company.

Coverage

Medicare Part D covers drugs that have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, it does not cover any drugs prescribed for "off-label" purposes, meaning for conditions for which the FDA did not approve the drug. Generally, Part D also does not cover weight control drugs except where medically necessary, fertility drugs, drugs used to enhance sexual performance, cough and cold relief drugs, barbiturates and benzodiazapines.

Pricing

As of 2010, Medicare Part D requires a deductible of $310 a year. After that, Part D picks up 75 percent of prescription drug costs up to $2,830. The beneficiary then must pay out of pocket until total drug expenses reach $4,550, at which point Medicare Part D picks up as much as 95 percent of prescription drug costs.

You must pay a monthly premium to enroll in a Medicare Part D plan. Again, plans vary, but the average premium for PDPs in 2009 was $35.09, according to data from the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation.

Finding a Plan

The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services has established an online tool to help you find and select a Medicare Part C or D plan provider. Access the link in the Resources section on this page. Be patient: The page may take awhile to load.

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Breast Cancer Fundraising Supplies

Hold a breast cancer fundraiser to raise awareness and promote early detection.

Breast cancer fundraisers can help support individuals, health care and research for breast cancer. It is important to raise awareness about breast cancer and promote early detection. If you want to have a breast cancer fundraiser, consider fundraising supplies to improve your chance of success.

Sources

There is a variety of places to find breast cancer fundraising supplies and information, such as pinkribbonfundraising.com and nationalbreastcancer.org. You can also have your own supplies produced by going through a local or wholesale company and creating your own design.

Art

Art is a simple and highly effective method of raising funds. If you decide to hold an auction--either online or in person--or a raffle, you will need an extensive number of contacts to get a high response. The artwork can be donated to your organization by the artists themselves. Artists often appreciate the exposure of large gatherings; your organization and the artist can mutually benefit from including art in a breast cancer fundraiser.

Calendar

Create a breast cancer calendar to provide information on breast health and cancer prevention as well as to raise awareness. You can create your own calendar with images and have it printed at a wholesale cost.

Bracelets

Breast-cancer-awareness bracelets are often an inexpensive method of raising funds. There are many breast cancer bracelets available that focus on survivors, awareness, prayer and other areas. These are often given to survivors to celebrate the milestones they have achieved in their recovery.

Magnets

Breast-cancer-survivor magnets are available through a multitude of websites and have different statements written on them. You can also have your own breast-cancer-awareness magnets printed with your own logo and image.

Clothing

There is a variety of clothing, such as shirts and baseball caps, available for breast cancer fundraising. Pink breast-cancer shirts show people's commitment to finding a cure. Baseball caps have a "Think Pink" logo on them and are available in numerous designs.

Considerations

Remember to think pink; pink is associated with breast cancer and having pink on any fundraiser fliers or other correspondence can draw people to your event. Whether your breast cancer fundraiser is an ongoing venture or held in October during Breast Cancer Awareness month, it is important to explore new methods of raising funds and increasing support of your organization.

Tags: breast cancer, breast cancer, breast cancer fundraiser, cancer fundraiser, raise awareness, raising funds, your organization

How Much Money Does An Mri Technician Make

Salaries for MRI technicians range from $48,000 to $68,000.

MRI technicians take control of magnetic resonance imaging devices to get a better view of the inside of the body. Whether a dislocated joint, brain aneurysm, or anything in between, the work of an MRI tech can be the key in diagnosing and treating serious conditions. If you're thinking about the job, first learn about compensation you can expect.

National Averages

PayScale reports that average hourly wages for MRI technicians ranges from $23.37 to $31.83. Annualizing these figures for a full-time position, a salary range from $48,753 to $67,703 is calculated. These figures are accurate as of December 2010 and aggregate results from 457 individuals.

Experience

Those entering the workforce as an MRI tech must understand that average salary changes as experience is gained. Based on PayScale's survey, technicians with one to four years experience earn between $41,356 and $54,610 every year. After five to nine years of work, however, this range grows to $49,480 and $63,090. Finally, techs with 10 to 19 years under their belt have average salaries between $56,498 and $66,814.

Location

When PayScale breaks down compensation levels by state of employment, Virginia takes a commanding lead with MRI technicians' salary range reaching more than $88,000. Pennsylvania, Texas and Florida follow behind Virginia, each with top average salaries around $65,000. California and Georgia, next on PayScale's list, both have top averages around $60,000.

Benefits

The salary estimates include bonus pay, but do not factor in non-cash benefits. According to PayScale, 81 percent of MRI techs receive medical insurance from their job. Additionally, 66 percent get dental care and 49 percent get vision care.

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Radiology Tech Qualifications

Radiology techs create images that help doctors diagnose patient conditions.

Radiology techs conduct X-ray examinations and related imaging procedures that provide critical information physicians need to make accurate diagnoses of patient conditions. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the majority (60 percent) of radiological technologists work in hospital settings. The remainder are employed in doctor's offices, outpatient clinics, imaging centers and medical laboratories.

Education

An aspiring radiology tech can pursue a 2-year (associate's degree) or 4-year (bachelor's degree) program. For those who already have a health care background, there are also some certification programs that take only 1 year. A 2-year degree meets basic qualification standards; however, specialization and career advancement generally require at least a bachelor's degree.

Course Work

Radiology tech students must take basic courses in medical terminology, health care and ethics. Technical subjects include physics, mathematics and imaging technology. Advanced coursework focuses on physiotherapy, anatomy and radiology. In addition to academic work, radiology students participate in extensive clinical training under the supervision of licensed professionals.

Licensing

Most states (40 as of 2009) require radiology techs to be licensed. Generally, states follow federal guidelines, although compliance is voluntary. To be licensed, a radiology tech must gradate from a program accredited by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and pass the ARRT certification examination.

Ongoing

To maintain licensure in most states, radiology techs must take 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. Specialization often requires additional training in areas such as magnetic resonance imaging (frequently this is incorporated into a bachelor's program). Advancement into management may require earning a master's degree in radiology or business administration.

Tags: bachelor degree, health care, must take, patient conditions, radiology tech

Prilocaine Side Effects

Prilocaine Side Effects

Dentsply Pharmaceutical sells the injectable local prilocaine under the brand name Citanest Plain Dental. As the trademark implies, dentists administer prilocaine to paralyze nerves in the moth and gums before extracting teeth or performing other minor dental surgeries. Prilocaine generally produces few side effects beyond minor swelling around the injection site and lingering numbness, but the anesthetic can become deadly when administered in excessive doses or inappropriately injected into a blood vessel.

Central Nervous System Side Effects

When patients have a high sensitivity to prilocaine, when large doses of prilocaine get administered or when prilocaine gets injected directly into a blood vessel instead of gum tissue, patients can experience central nervous system (CNS) problems. As listed in prilocaine's prescribing information, these CNS side effects can include dizziness, nervousness, blurred vision, drowsiness, tremors, convulsions and respiratory arrest.

Cardiovascular Side Effects

Injections of prilocaine can slow patients' hearts and lower their arterial pressure to the point that too little oxygenated blood reaches the brain. Symptoms of this condition---known as cerebral hypoxia---include sweating, moving in and out of consciousness and mental confusion.

Allergic Reaction

Anyone who has had an allergic reaction to lidocaine (e.g., Anestacon from Polymedica), mepivacaine (e.g., Polocaine from Dentsply) or benzocaine (e.g., Anbesol from Wyeth Consumer Healthcare) will also be allergic to prilocaine. Allergies occur rarely, according to the prescribing information prilocaine, but the symptoms of such a reaction include hives, throat swelling and skin lesions. People have died because of prilocaine allergies.

Overdose

Severe CNS and/or cardiovascular side effects indicate that a patient has received an overdose of prilocaine. Doctors may need to administer medications to control convulsions or increase the heart rate and arterial pressure. Patients may also need to have supplemental oxygen.

Warnings

Doctors who administer prilocaine must have emergency equipment on hand to resuscitate patients who have severe adverse reactions to the anesthetic. Patients with severe liver or kidney impairment should not receive prilocaine injections, nor should patients with a red blood cell disorder known as methemoglobinemia. People with methemoglobinemia cannot eliminate old or damaged iron- and oxygen-carrying blood cells.

Tags: administer prilocaine, arterial pressure, blood vessel, into blood, into blood vessel, patients have, prescribing information

Interpret Dexa Results

DEXA or Dual Energy Xray Absorptionmetry, is a test that shows a patient's bone mineral density. This test commonly is used to evaluate a patient's bone loss and to diagnose osteopenia or osteoporosis. Since osteoporosis is responsible for 1.5 million fractures in the United States each year, this test is fairly common and has been shown to be a good predictor of bone loss. Below are the steps to take to interpret your DEXA results.

Instructions

1. Your test results will have images of the scans taken and tables with numbers in them. Look below the images of the scans; that is where you will find the columns with your results.

2. Notice the first column has a heading of Region. This column tells you what part of the body was scanned.

3. The next column should have a heading of "BMD." That stands for bone mineral density. A score of +1.0 is good. A score of +1 to -1 shows normal bone mineral density. Any number below -1 to -2.5 shows osteopenia (low bone mass). A score of -2.5 or below shows osteoporosis.

4. The next column over will have a heading of "T score" or just "T." This is a measurement of your bone mineral density compared to someone in her 30s. A score of +1.0 is good. A score of +1 to -1 shows normal bone mineral density. Any number from -1 to -2.5 shows osteopenia. A score of -2.5 and below shows osteoporosis.

5. The column headed "Z score" or "Z" shows your bone mineral density compared to someone your own age. Again, a score of +1.0 is good. A score of +1 to -1 shows normal bone mineral density. Any number of -1 to -2.5 shows osteopenia. A score of -2.5 and below shows osteoporosis.

6. Talk to your doctor about your results. Only your doctor can tell you what steps to take to keep your bones healthy.

Tags: bone mineral, bone mineral density, mineral density, below shows, score shows, below shows osteoporosis

Facts On Prostate Cancer Awareness

Approximately 32,000 men die of prostate cancer annually

Prostate cancer is a malignant growth in the cells of the prostate gland, having the ability to spread to other parts of the body. Because it is often a slow-growing cancer, a newly diagnosed patient has time to gather information and become fully educated about the disease.

Function of the Prostate

The prostate is a walnut-sized, fluid-producing gland in the male body that surrounds the neck of the bladder and urethra. The prostate produces and stores a transparent secretion needed to liquefy coagulated semen into seminal fluid, and acts as a storage unit for the secretion until it is needed for sexual activity.

The Statistics

According to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, excluding skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the United States. Almost 200,000 cases are diagnosed each year, with 32,000 men dying of the disease annually.

Who is at Risk?

The chance of developing prostate cancer increases with age. According to the 2001 California Cancer Journal for Clinicians, one in 103 men aged 40 to 59 will develop prostate cancer. That increases to one in eight men when they reach 60 to 79 years of age. Additionally, prostate cancer is 66 percent more prevalent among African-Americans.

Causes

The exact underlying cause of prostate cancer is still unknown. It may be related to changes in male hormone-related genes, diet and family history.

Warning Signs

Prostate cancer gives little warning signs. Fatigue, weight loss, and aches and pains are associated with advanced cases. Men who are 50 and older should undergo yearly prostate cancer screenings, including a digital rectal examination and prostate specific antigen (PSA) testing. Men with family histories should be screened starting at age 40.

Tags: prostate cancer, prostate cancer

Does An Employer Have To Offer Health Insurance

Many large employers offer potential employees many benefits other than a straight salary. The compensation package could include a car allowance, a 401k retirement plan, and health insurance benefits. Employers do not have to offer any of these inducements by law but, once they do, they have to apply the rules fairly. All employees in a certain class (full-time, management-level, engineers) must have access to the same benefits. Consider four things when deciding to take a job that has health benefits.

How Good Is the Plan?

Every group health plan is different. Important variables are copays, deductibles and coverage. Can you see your own doctor or only doctors in the group? Are you covered for routine visits or only for catastrophic illnesses or accidents? A plan with a $5,000 deductible will not be effective for you if you don't have $5,000 to pay it. The more coverage a plan offers, the more expensive the premiums will be, but there will be less financial risk to you.

Whom Does the Plan Cover?

Some group health plans offered by employers only cover employees, not their families. You may be able to cover your family if you pay the additional premium. If the plan is good, it will be beneficial to get the increased coverage unless your spouse can get family coverage cheaper. If your family is covered under the plan, the employer is required to offer COBRA continuation coverage for a length of time after your employment ends. This coverage also would extend to your immediate family.

Who Pays the Premiums?

A company may offer a gold-plated health care plan but require that the employees pay all the premiums. Before accepting an offer of employment, make sure to determine how much of the premium the employer is going to pay. That amount represents extra compensation to you and should be included when comparing various job offers. If you have to pay the premiums, compare the plan to individual health care plans you can qualify for. There may be instances where you can get an individual plan that is tailored to your needs for less than a group plan that has coverage that you do not need.

How Long Before the Plan Kicks In?

Most health plans don't become effective the day you start your new job -- even though you usually will begin to pay premiums then. Some plans take 30 to 90 days of employment before you have access to the benefits. It is important to know exactly when those benefits kick in so that you can find temporary health care coverage during that time frame. Otherwise, you may find that you have a gap in coverage that could put you at risk for unexpected medical bills.

Tags: health care, coverage that, group health, have access, health plans, plan that, your family

Job Description For Medical Social Worker

Social work is a career for people who want to help others. While some social workers focus on areas such as domestic violence and child welfare, medical social workers specialize in helping families and individuals who are affected by some sort of illness or injury. Medical social workers should be emotionally stable, as they may have to deal with painful situations involving terminally ill patients.

Responsibilities

Medical social workers support individuals and families who are affected by illnesses or injuries that may impair their ability to function normally. They counsel patients and their families, as well as provide care, give advice and help make arrangements. It is common for medical social workers to work with cancer, AIDS and Alzheimer's disease patients. Some medical social workers also specialize in senior citizen health by providing support to their adult children and caregivers.

Work Settings

Medical social workers practice in varied settings. Nursing homes, hospitals, government agencies, individual and family services, and home health agencies are just a few of the places that offer employment opportunities for medical social workers. It is common for these social workers to visit patients' homes after they have been released from hospitals or other healthcare facilities. Many medical social workers also run support groups.

Education

A bachelor's degree in social work is the minimum education requirement, but most medical social workers are required to have a master's degree in social work. Sociology degrees are also acceptable for this line of work. Individuals generally are required to take courses in psychology, sociology, social welfare, feminine issues and African-American issues. A medical social worker must also complete a certain number of supervised field experience hours, which often are in a clinical setting.

Licensure

All states require all types of social workers to become certified or licensed. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, two years or 3,000 supervised clinical experience hours are required for licensure of clinical social workers in most states. Medical social workers should find out what their state's requirements are for licensure before they begin their degree in social work or sociology to ensure eligibility.

Earnings

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical social workers earn about $47,000 a year on average. Medical social workers who work in general medical and surgical hospitals earn the highest salary, which is about $51,000 a year on average. The lowest average earnings are for medical social workers who work for individual and family services. These social workers earn an average of about $38,000 a year.

Tags: social workers, medical social, medical social workers, about year, degree social

Locate A Liver Specialist

Dealing with a medical condition can be a stressful and emotional time. Finding a specialist who is knowledgeable and who you feel comfortable with is important to ease your medical condition and your stress level. Liver specialists can deal with a wide range of medical conditions that affect the liver or can specialize in one specific condition, such as hepatitis. A gastroenterologist specializes with several internal organs, including the liver, while a hepatologist focuses only on the liver.

Instructions

1. Call your insurance company and ask for the names of liver specialists who are both in network and out of network. In network specialists normally are covered by the insurance while out of network specialists are either not covered or paid at a lower amount with a higher out-of-pocket cost to you. If you cannot afford to pay an additional cost, do not ask for out of network providers.

2. Ask your family care doctor for referrals to liver specialists in your area. Your doctor will know which liver specialists are best suited for your medical condition. The staff of your family care office can also help coordinate treatment if necessary.

3. Visit healthfinder.com. Click on the link under "Internet URL." Open the document and find liver specialists in your state.

4. Look in your local Yellow Pages phone book. Search under "Physicians" and then either "Gastroenterology" or "Liver."

Tags: medical condition, family care, liver specialists, liver specialists, liver specialists your

Still Keep My Medicare Benefits If My Social Security Disability Benefits Stop

Federal work incentive provisions protect Medicare coverage for disabled workers.

The Medicare program became effective for eligible individuals 65 years of age and over in 1965. Beginning in 1972, Medicare eligibility was extended to recipients who had received Social Security Disability Insurance for 24 months. Disabled Medicare recipients became reluctant to attempt working for fear work might result in loss of their valuable Medicare coverage. Legislation such as the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act gave disabled Medicare recipients coverage protection even if benefits ended.

Medical Cessation Appeal

Medicare terminates if the Social Security Administration decides evidence establishes the claimant is no longer disabled. Medicare coverage and benefit checks both end when cessation is based on medical recovery, not work. The recipient, however, has the right to appeal the decision if he feels he has not recovered. If he appeals promptly--within 10 days of receiving the cessation decision--he can request that benefits, including Medicare, continue until receiving an appeal decision through the reconsideration and hearing appeal levels. If he loses the appeal, Medicare payments for services are not an overpayment.

Medical Recovery Appeal Decision

If the recipient receives a favorable decision on his appeal of a medical cessation, Medicare eligibility resumes without interruption. If the appeal decision is unfavorable and he does not file another appeal, Medicare coverage continues until the end of the month following the month of issuance of the unfavorable decision.

Benefits Stop Due to Work

Social Security allows a disability beneficiary to work nine months, not necessarily consecutively, without losing benefits. This trial work attempt helps a beneficiary test his ability to work despite his disability. If he completes nine months of work at the minimum level (at least $720 monthly in 2010), he has completed his trial work period. If he then works one more month with substantial earnings (considered to be $1,000 in 2010), benefits end. However, Medicare continues during an additional 93 months. For example, if a recipient completes nine total months of work above the $720 level on September 30, 2010, and continues working, benefits stop but Medicare continues until the last day of June, 2018. Medicare could continue indefinitely after the end of the nine-month trial work period if the person does not work an additional month of substantial work.

Premium Medicare Insurance

If a Social Security beneficiary's Medicare ended because 93 months elapsed since he completed his nine-month trial work period, he can buy Medicare coverage. He can qualify for premium Medicare despite continued work and ineligibility for benefits if his medical condition still meets Social Security's definition of disability. The initial period to enroll is the eight months beginning with the month he received the notice that Medicare would end. If he fails to enroll, there are annual general enrollment periods, but premium penalties and coverage delays may apply. In 2010, the premium for both parts of Medicare Hospital and Medical Insurance is $571.50. If a recipient cannot afford the premiums, he can apply to his state's Medicaid agency, which must pay premiums for beneficiaries with limited income and resources.

Expedited Reinstatement Provisional Payments

Beginning in 2001, disability recipients whose benefit terminated due to work can reapply for expedited reinstatement of benefits if they are suddenly unable to continue working. The expedited application option only applies if the new application is within 60 months of the last month of benefit eligibility. If Medicare has terminated because the 93 months of extended Medicare coverage elapsed, applicants for reinstatement can also have premium-free Medicare reinstated. The Social Security Administration will make a new medical decision to verify that the applicant remains disabled. While Social Security is making the decision, recipients receive provisional benefits and Medicare for up to six months. Upon approval of the reinstatement, Medicare and benefits continue. If Social Security denies the reinstatement application, Medicare and provisional benefits end the month after the month of the decision's date.

Tags: Social Security, Medicare coverage, trial work, appeal decision, trial work period, work period

Premenopausal Estrogen Deficiency

Women working in med lab

Premenopausal estrogen deficiency refers to a deficiency of essential estrogen hormones in a female body before it goes through a major change known as the "change of life."

The phase leading up to the "change of life" period marks the beginning a extraordinary change in the female body.

The Term

Menopause describes the physical and emotional changes that occur in a woman nearing the end of her childbearing years (end of fertility). These changes usually happen between the age of 45 to 55. At this time, the ovaries cease to produce eggs, which is associated with a reduction in estrogen production.

Hormones

Estrogen is a hormone that aids in the development, maturation and functioning of the female reproductive system. A certain level of estrogen is essential for maintaining good health. Estrogen plays a significant role in a female body and is primarily produced in the ovaries. Estrogen regulates the menstrual cycle and affects the urinary tract, blood vessels and heart. These hormones also affect a woman's hair, bones, skin and mucus membranes.

Premenopause

This is the period before menopause. Premenopausal symptoms can start anytime between 35 to 45 years and may last from 5 to 15 years.

Estrogen deficiency can negatively affect a woman's body. The deficiency elevates bad cholesterol and reduces good cholesterol. Women may develop low blood pressure and depression during this time.

Symptoms

Premenopausal estrogen deficiency is associated with the following symptoms: changes in menstrual cycle, hot flushes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, bloating, weight gain, mood swings, sleep problems, increased need to pass water, increase in facial hair, dry skin, brittle bones (osteoporosis) and narrowing of arteries.

Hormone Therapy

Many women simply sail through menopause and experience no symptoms. Others need medical help. The depleted estrogen levels can be replaced through estrogen, progesterone and testosterone therapy. Hormone therapy is commonly used to treat menopause, but in some cases hormone therapy comes with the risk of diseases such as cancer, gallbladder disease, blood clots and heart disease.

What You Can Do

Some tips for you if you are in the premenopausal stage of your life and want to avoid estrogen deficiency:

Get regular checkups.

Eat a healthy diet designed to increase estrogen levels.

Maintain a regular exercise program.

Talk to your doctor about your hormone therapy options.

Tags: female body, affect woman, associated with, change life, estrogen deficiency

Job Description Of A Radiology Transcriptionist

If you want a position in the rapidly growing field of health care that does not involve direct patient care, consider medical transcription. Particularly for radiology and other specialties, medical transcription, allows many staffers to work from home.

Job Description

Medical transcription involves typing medical information dictated by doctors and other health-care professionals. Radiology transcription involves information related to X-rays, sonograms and chemotherapy treatments.

Accurately typed radiology reports are important because they are the official record of radiology treatments and tests the patient has received. They become part of his health history. They may also be used in legal and insurance claims.

Transcriptionists may also be needed for other reports and correspondence.

Education and Training

Most transcriptionists learn the trade at a community college or vocational school. They take courses in anatomy and physiology, medical terminology (including radiology terms), typing, dictation and report formatting. Transcription programs may be a one-year certificate program or a two-year associate's degree program. Transcriptionists may choose to receive designation as a registered medical transcriptionist (RMT) or certified medical transcriptionist (CMT), but these are voluntary.

Medical transcriptionists receive on-the-job training on the particular transcription equipment, formats and procedures. The first several transcriptions will be reviewed by a colleague familiar with the particular radiology practice and practitioners.

Salary

Medical transcriptionists earn about $15 per hour on average, according to the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary varies by employer--laboratories tend to pay slightly more than hospitals and doctors' offices--experience and education.

Advancement

With experience and education, radiology and other medical transcriptionists may be promoted to supervisory positions. They may go on to teach transcription skills or open their own transcription company. Some transcriptionists also learn medical billing and coding and other health information skills.

Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects radiology transcriptionist jobs and other medical transcription jobs will grow 14 percent by 2016, faster than average. This is because of an aging population and the growing need for accurate medical documentation.

Expert Insight

Radiology transcriptionists and other medical transcriptionists should have excellent hearing and be adept at discerning dictations that may be distorted by equipment issues. There may be difficulties in discerning the correct medical term used from among several similar-sounding words. Dictations may be difficult to discern because of accents, rapid speech or distracted speakers.

Transcription work must be quickly and accurately produced. Most clients require completed transcriptions within 24 hours.

Some transcriptionist work in office settings at hospitals, clinics and laboratories. Others work from home with equipment provided by the employer.

While many correspondence and online courses advertise, many of these are scams. It is best to take a course at an accredited community college or vocational school.

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Medicaid Eligibility Regulations

Some parents rely upon Medicaid to get medical care for their children.

Medicaid is a form of government-sponsored health insurance for those who cannot afford their own medical care. Introduced in 1965 as part of the Social Security Act, Medicaid was a part of President Lyndon Johnson's "Great Society" program. Administration of the program falls under the jurisdiction of each state, but the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, establishes guidelines and regulations.

Income Guidelines

Medicaid covers people in a variety of situations. At the heart of its various regulations are income guidelines that establish the limits of who can qualify and who cannot. This does not mean that you can automatically get Medicaid if you are poor; it simply means that certain people who meet other requirements must fall within the income guidelines also. Guidelines consider the size of the family and your monthly or yearly income. If you fall within the category of one of the "eligible groups," you can qualify for Medicaid even if you make up to 250 percent above the established federal poverty line. The amount of aid for which you qualify depends on how much you make.

Eligible Groups

The government limits Medicaid eligibility to certain groups within the poverty guidelines. Medicaid covers many people. Pregnant women, for example, can qualify for Medicaid if they fall within the federal poverty limit guidelines. Those who are disabled, over the age of 65 and needy, children and teenagers can all qualify to receive Medicaid benefits. You must also be a U.S. citizen or a legal immigrant to qualify. Under federal law, the states must cover these groups.

Groups with Optional Eligibility

Since states administer Medicaid, they have the option to include or exclude certain groups from eligibility. Groups with optional eligibility include those who already receive state-issued income supplements and those who are disabled, blind or elderly that fall below the poverty guidelines, but do not qualify for mandatory coverage. Other covered individuals can include people in institutions, persons infected with tuberculosis, and infants and pregnant women who have incomes below 185 percent of the poverty level, but not covered by the mandatory coverage rules.

Breast and Cervical Cancer Prevention and Treatment Act

Along with the traditional medical services offered by Medicaid, the government introduced additional services in 2000 with the passage of the Breast and Cervical Cancer Prevention and Treatment Act. This made it possible for the states to offer additional assistance to women who qualify for Medicaid and have breast or cervical cancer as determined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program. In addition to treatment, women who qualify can receive free annual screenings.

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Top Photography Careers

Some professional photographers still use film cameras, though many use digital equipment.

Photography can be much more than just a popular hobby. For professional photographers, skill with a camera can be the basis of an exciting career. While photographers take on many different jobs, some photography careers stand out for offering high earning potential, creative freedom or an exciting, glamorous lifestyle.

Photojournalist

Photojournalists have one of the most varied and exciting careers among professional photographers. They produce images that accompany news stories, either on television, online or in print. Some photojournalists work with one or more writers, providing a visual element for the stories others write. Other photojournalists write their own copy to accompany the images. In either case, photojournalists may show their work in a gallery setting following its use as news content.

What makes photojournalism one of the top photography careers is the sheer variety of places to work. Some document local events and figures while others travel to war zones, isolated spots in nature and major worldwide happenings to bring the news back home.

Fashion Photographer

Fashion photographers often work on staff for a magazine, website or ad agency. They photograph models in the studio and fashion events around the world, traveling to major fashion centers and competing with other photographers for the best shots. Fashion photographers also may produce images for magazine covers, advertisements and publicity firms. This places fashion photographers firmly within celebrity culture, putting them into direct contact with A-listers that include actors, models and sports stars.

Fine Art Photographer

Fine art photographers use the camera as a tool for producing art. Like painters and sculptors, fine art photographers explore the history of their medium while pushing its boundaries, developing new photographic techniques and responding to social and personal issues. Fine art photographers may become wealthy if they find a large audience, but many trade money for creative freedom. A fine art photographer's work is more likely to be found in a gallery than a magazine. But for classically trained or self-taught artists with an interest in media and technology, fine art photography offers an ideal path.

Freelance Photographer

Like fine art photographers, freelance photographers have a high degree of creative freedom. An individual freelancer may work in many different fields, setting her own schedule and doing everything from photographing weddings to seeking candid shots of celebrities and newsworthy events. Like fine art photographers, freelance photographers are generally not on a salary and therefore tend to earn less than salaried photojournalists and fashion photographers, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, freelancers can enjoy the flexibility of working from anywhere and selling images to buyers that range from tabloids and stock photographe collections to newspapers and websites

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