How Much Do Medical Assistants Make In Michigan

Medical assistants take on many of the duties of a physician's workload to free him up to care for a patient. For medical assistants in Michigan, salaries fall just under the national average for the field.

Prescription for Success

While there is no required training program or education required to be a medical assistant, Michigan candidates for the career should attend one of the hundreds of medical assisting post-secondary education programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. Michigan is home to 25 accredited schools offering a short-term certificate or two-year associate degree in the field, including Baker College of Allen park, Davenport University (multiple locations), Schoolcraft College, Montcalm Community College, Oakland Community College-Waterford and Glen Oaks Community College. No licensing or certification is required.

Average Salary

Michigan's 20,150 medical assistants earned an average statewide salary of approximately $28,140 in 2009, just under the national average of $29,450 for the profession, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. A portion of the state's medical assistants did earn higher-than-average salaries; earners in the 90th percentile received $37,080 per year. At the other end of the moneyline, Michigan's lowest-paid medical assistants earned $21,300 per year.

Geography

Within Michigan itself, only two areas broke the $30,000 salary range in 2009 -- Ann Arbor, with an average medical assistant salary of $30,460, and Jackson, with an average salary of $30,200. Ann Arbor was also the city with the highest 90th percentile salary, at $43,270, but Jackson's $39,690 90th percentile fell to third place, behind the Niles-Benton Harbor area, with a 90th percentile salary of $40,370. Niles-Benton Harbor did have an average salary just over the statewide average, at $28,250, but fell below the national average.

Low-Paying Cities

The worst-paying cities for medical assistants in Michigan were Saginaw, with a 10th-percentile wage of $18,480 per year and an average of $24,980 per year, and Flint, with a 10th-percentile wage of $19,730. Flint's average salary of $27,330 was still higher than some of the other lower-paying cities. Bay City, for example, paid medical assistants an average salary of $25,210 per year and $19,730 in the 10th percentile.

Tags: 90th percentile, average salary, medical assistants, national average, 10th-percentile wage, 90th percentile salary, assistants earned

Pros & Cons Of Dna Fingerprinting

DNA fingerprinting is one of the best ways to solve questions of human identity, according to Family Helix . Everyone has a particular DNA structure, which is as unique as an actual fingerprint and can have amazing accuracy. However, issues concerning the pros and cons of DNA fingerprinting have been argued about for some time.

Defining DNA Fingerprinting

DNA fingerprinting is also known as genetic fingerprinting and can pinpoint a person's unique DNA structure. DNA genetic fingerprinting is an identifying method popularly used in forensics, medicine and paternity testing, according to Family Helix.

Pros of DNA Fingerprinting

Having DNA on file could help solve crimes without any doubt and likewise set innocent people free. DNA fingerprinting also enables people to prevent disease through medical intervention and lifestyle changes and gives the chance for people to prepare for possible illnesses.

People fighting in favor of DNA fingerprinting argue that matching fingerprints by sight involves judgment, skill, and training. Although it is extremely reliable when done properly, there has to be error of margin associated with analyzing fingerprints by sight. Based on these accusations, DNA fingerprinting should be more accurate.

Cons of DNA Fingerprinting

There are many ethical issues concerning DNA fingerprinting. DNA is a blueprint of the make-up of one's body, and whether or not it is fair to keep such sensitive material on file has been debated.

Discrimination could occur in many forms. People may be rejected from certain health care if his DNA reveals something about him or a minority may be discriminated against if people who are closely associated with his DNA are more frequently in trouble with the law.

Another issue at hand is consent. It should be an individual's choice to undergo genetic fingerprinting. If a child has his DNA fingerprinted during his youth, he may not want such information on file once he is an adult.

DNA fingerprinting is not necessary in the minds of many who think basic fingerprinting works with great accuracy. Joseph Polski, chief operations officer for the International Association for Identification, was quoted in the Washington Post as saying, "experts are highly accurate at comparing ridge endings, bifurcations and intervening ridges between two sets of fingerprints and determining whether they match."

How Accurate is Basic Fingerprinting?

There are no reports on the actual margin of error in fingerprinting. Those for DNA fingerprinting believe there is a lot of unreported error, whereas experts in fingerprinting claim there isn't much error. The only way to know which case is factual is to see a study done on the actual margin or error, however, no case study has been completed.

How Accurate is DNA Fingerprinting?

The same issue with accuracy can be brought to light with DNA testing. According to Family Helix, the accuracy of DNA testing is dependent on the competency of people in the labs.

While margin of error is still a factor in DNA fingerprinting, one must study which method, basic fingerprinting or DNA fingerprinting, holds the least margin of error.

Tags: margin error, Family Helix, genetic fingerprinting, according Family, according Family Helix

Crafts For Toddlers To Make For Father'S Day

Help children wrap their Father's Day gifts for an extra special touch.

Father's Day has been celebrated in the United States since 1910 as a day to honor fathers. Children of all ages celebrate their fathers in their own way on that day. Toddlers can join in the celebration by assisting in assembling and decorating simple crafts that are fast, easy, inexpensive and, most importantly, sure to delight any proud father.

Homemade Card

Making dads a Father's Day card is not only thoughtful, but it is something they can cherish for years to come. Children can make a card using virtually any material and design it to suit their father. Some ideas include a shirt and tie card, which is made by cutting out a piece of legal-size paper into the shape of a short-sleeved dress shirt and gluing on a tie made from construction paper. Children decorate the shirt in the pattern of their choice. Glue the tie only at the top so you can write a message underneath. Another idea is to make a card for dad that includes tickets that can be redeemed for things like a hug, watching a movie together and other thoughtful gestures and activities that small children can easily accomplish.

Wooden Frame

Help children make a wooden frame using ice pop sticks or tongue depressors which will hold a sweet picture for a Father's Day gift. Make a square with four sticks to create a frame. Glue the sticks together at each corner by overlapping the ends. Use eight sticks instead of four by using two sticks on each side, which will also create more room for children to decorate. Have children decorate the frames with Father's Day-themed stickers, such as tools, fishing gear and barbecue tools. Help them write "Happy Father's Day" on the frame as well. Take a picture of each child and glue it to the back of the frame so the photo faces out.

Homemade Apron

Help children make a one-of-a-kind apron for their dads to wear while cooking in the kitchen or outside on the barbecue. Get a plain canvas apron from a craft or hobby store, or if you want to make it by hand, select an apron pattern online and cut out your own. Children can decorate their dad's apron with iron-on letters, iron-on pictures of kitchen or cooking-related items or have them dip their hands in paint and decorate the front of the apron with hand prints for a personalized touch.

Tackle Box

For the dad who loves fishing, children can make a keepsake tackle box. Wrap a shoe box in paper using a brown paper bag or construction paper in a color of your choice. Wrap the lid and box separately so the lid can be removed. Twist several pieces of brown pipe cleaner together for the tackle box handle. Punch two holes through the lid and thread each end into the lid. Twist or knot the ends so the handle stays on. Cut out paper fish and bubbles, and allow children to glue them to the outside of the box. Write "Dad's Tackle Box" on the end of the box or use sticker letters. Have the children fill the box with plastic bobbers, fishing lures or gummy worms for a humorous touch.

Tags: children make, Help children, apron with, Children decorate, children decorate, construction paper, Have children

Digital Signage Benefits

Traditional print signs cost more in the long run than digital signs.

Luring customers inside a business or promoting a certain type of product in the outdoor media market has often been a tough proposition. However, with the advancement of technology, businesses and marketers no longer have to depend on inefficient and difficult-to-update signage. Digital signage provides numerous benefits to its users, making it a worthwhile investment for many businesses.

Attention Grabbing

Digital signage tends to grab the attention of onlookers better than printed signage. Certainly the colors and animations that often light up a night can quickly grab the attention of anyone passing by.

Easy to Update

Most digital signage consists of many individual lights that can be independently turned on and off. This makes it fairly quick and easy to update the text on a digital sign, either via computer or a device provided with the sign.

Cost Effective

Although digital signs use energy and there are costs associated with running them, they tend to be cheaper in the long run--especially when changes to the signs are taken into account. If a business needs to change their messages on a frequent basis, being able to do it without printing a new banner is very cost-effective.

Tags: digital signs, grab attention

The Average Salary Of A Radiologist In Delaware

Securing a job as a Delaware radiologist can help you earn a decent annual salary.

The average salary that radiologists earn in Delaware is impacted by the post-secondary training and years of experience the professionals possess. For example, radiologists who have experience performing mammograms and taking magnetic resonance (MR) and computed tomography (CT) patient scans can earn higher wages than their counterparts who do not have this experience. Additionally, the industry in which radiologists work also affects their annual salaries.

Average Radiologist Salary in Delaware

There were 910 radiologists employed in Delaware as of May 2008, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Additionally, and regardless of employer or the industry, these Delaware radiologists earned an average annual salary of $59,460. Average hourly wages were $28.59.

Job Types

The type of jobs radiologists perform for employers in Delaware makes a difference in their annual wages. For example, Radiology Schools reports that as of 2010, radiologic technicians earned an average annual salary of $55,000. Salaries for radiologists who mainly performed X-rays were lower, at $40,000 per year. Radiologists who worked with nuclear medicine earned $71,000 per year. However, MRI and ultrasound technicians earned top salaries in Delaware. These medical professionals earned $74,000 and $76,000 per year, respectively.

National Radiologist Salaries

Radiologists earned a median annual wage of $52,210 per year across the country as of May 2008, according to the BLS. Salary ranges for the middle 50 percent of radiologists ranged from $42,710 to $63,010 per year. Even more disparity existed in the bottom and top 10 percent groupings of radiologist pay. The bottom 10 percent earned less than $35,100 per year, while the top 10 percent earned more than $74,970 per year.

Top Paying Industries

Top paying industries for radiologists were medical and diagnostic laboratories. If radiologists were employed in this industry, they took home about $55,210 per year. The next highest paying industry for radiologists was the federal executive branch. These jobs paid radiologists an average annual salary of $53,650. Public and private general medical and surgical hospitals paid their radiologists $52,890 per year, while radiologists working at outpatient care centers earned $50,480 per year. Rounding out the top five paying industries for radiologists was physician offices. Radiologists working out of physicians' offices took home $48,530 per year.

Tags: annual salary, average annual, average annual salary, earned year, 2008 according

What Are The Benefits Of Male Enhancement Pills

What Are the Benefits of Male Enhancement Pills?

Male enhancement pills are supplements sold to men to enlarge the penis. Usually, these pills are sold on the Internet, since they are not usually available in stores and are not approved by the FDA.

The University of Maryland conducted a test with several brands of male enhancement pills and was surprised to find a large amount of harmful contaminants in the pill. Although most pills contained mostly herbs, they also contained yeast, mold, bacteria like E. coli, fecal matter, lead and pesticides. Because no other formal studies have been conducted on these pills, there is no real proof that male enhancement pills are effective or do not harm their users in the long run.

Benefits of Male Enhancement Pills

Although it is not officially proven that male enhancement pills actually work to enlarge the penis, a man may still receive benefits from the pill he is taking. His self-confidence may be raised if the pills take a kind of placebo effect. If the man is more self-confident, he will be happier with his physique and the size of his penis, even if it does not actually appear larger. It is also possible that a man may believe his penis has been made larger by taking the enhancement pills, even though the size has not technically changed, since penis size may fluctuate throughout the day and in different stages of arousal. Although it has been found that herbs and some prescription medications like Viagra increase sexual performance, male enhancement pills marketed to make the penis larger do not, as of yet, have any proven results.

Warnings and Alternatives

Male enhancement pills are neither regulated nor endorsed by the FDA in any way. Do not purchase male enhancement pills from an online source you do not trust. By putting male enhancement pills in your body, you are making a dangerous decision. Not only are male enhancement pills proven to contain bacteria, mold, the E. coli virus and other dangerous additives, no long-term effects have been recorded since enhancement pills have been on the market. Before you take the risk of putting potentially hazardous pills into your body, consider taking a self-confidence class or a few therapy sessions to raise your self-esteem. You may find it works better than any pill. If you are not satisfied with male enhancement pills, other male enhancement products are on the market, including stretching and pumping devices. These devices usually show physical results for a short period of time, but also come with medical risks.

Tags: enhancement pills, enhancement pills, male enhancement, Benefits Male, Benefits Male Enhancement, have been, male enhancement pills

Macular Degeneration Eye Exercise

Macular degeneration is a disease that can eventually lead to difficulty reading or driving or could even cause blindness. It is most common in those age 60 and older. Though there is no cure, there are ways to slow its advancement, one of which is exercise. People who lead an active lifestyle are 70 percent less likely to develop the disease than those with a sedentary lifestyle. Also there are specific ways to train the eye to see around macular degeneration and make the disease more manageable.

Eccentric Viewing

Eccentric viewing is a technique where one trains the eye to see around the macular degeneration. The patient learns to view things in a way that is skewed, but appears normal because of the macular degeneration. The person finds the healthy part of their retina and looks through that. The first step is a series of charts that help the person pinpoint the area of the retina that sees with the most detail. Instead of looking at something dead on, the person looks slightly away from it.

Practice

When using the eccentric viewing technique, practice makes perfect. After determining which eye is best, the patient should use high magnification and good overhead lighting to help with the tactic. There are training courses available with the Macular Disease Society. With eccentric viewing, people who were unable to read for years were able to again.

Blue Blockers

One method that slows the progress of macular degeneration is the use of blue blocker sunglasses. Blue light is visible to us in anything that appears blue in color. It is also part of the makeup of the white light of the sun, or other artificial white lights. Some studies have shown blue light to deteriorate eyesight. Blue blocker sunglasses have a slight yellow tint that blocks the blue light without reducing overall light. Many people with macular degeneration have found them to be beneficial. They are available in most places that sunglasses are sold.

Tags: macular degeneration, around macular, around macular degeneration, blocker sunglasses, blue light, macular degeneration, viewing technique

The Best Online Courses For Medical Training

Students can complete online training, anytime and anywhere.

Those who are interested in entering or advancing in the healthcare industry can train on their own time. Online medical schools provide self-paced, individualized training for students. Students can take courses on medical transcription, medical office assisting or medical billing and coding. Even though these courses are less expensive than traditional college courses, financial assistance is available.

MediTec

This school provides online training in medical transcription, medical billing, office management, health insurance, legal transcription and paralegal training. Internships are offered along with online training. Students can also receive help on the med-board forums. Financial aid and payment plans are available to students who demonstrate financial need, and extensions may be provided to students who cannot complete the programs within two years.

MediTec

190 S Fort Lane, Suite 5

Layton, Utah 84041

801-593-0663

meditec.com

St. Augustine School of Medical Assistants

This school offers formal online training that allows students to study at their own pace. There are no homework deadlines or timed lectures. Most students complete the program within six to eight weeks, but they can take longer to complete it if necessary. Once students complete the program, they receive their Medical Assistant Certificate. Registration is available for both individuals and groups. The cost of tuition is $645.00.

St. Augustine School of Medical Assistants

St. Augustine Educational Services, Inc. (BVI)

2870 Peachtree Road

Atlanta, GA 30305

888-482-8941

medassistant.org

Career Step

This school specializes in providing medical transcription, medical billing and medical coding training to students. They offer both career-training programs and continuing-education courses for students to advance in their careers. Students have access to individualized training, a self-paced education, personal student support services and job placement assistance. Need-based tuition assistance is available for students who meet certain requirements. Assistance includes payment rewards, monthly installments, loans and state assistance. Interested students can view a preview of the course on the Career Step website.

Career Step

4692 N 300 W, Suite 150

Provo, UT 84604

801-489-9393

careerstep.com

Future MT

At this website, student can take courses in medical transcription. The course is open for enrollment, which means that students can enroll anytime of the year. Not only do they receive self-paced training, but students also receive live mentoring from professionals in the industry. This short course features training on anatomy, medical vocabulary, pharmacology, laboratory procedures and diagnostic procedures. The course includes a textbook, CD-ROM and foot pedal. Scholarships are available from the Future MT website.

Future MT Inc.

3208 E Colonial Drive #252

Orlando, FL 32803

futuremt.com

Tags: medical transcription, online training, Career Step, medical billing, medical transcription medical, This school, training students

Requirements For Sonography/Ultrasound Tech School

Ultrasound tech students must complete clinical practice.

Ultrasound technicians, also known as sonographers, use specialized equipment to produce images of patients' internal organs. Although ultrasound techs are typically associated with producing images of a woman's fetus during pregnancy, they also conduct ultrasounds of the brain, chest, abdomen and vascular system. Employment as an ultrasound tech requires post-secondary education and training.

High School Diploma or GED Certificate

Applicants for ultrasound technology or sonography school need a high school diploma or GED equivalency certificate. Students preparing for a career in sonography should take courses in mathematics, including algebra and geometry, as well as courses in the natural sciences, including physics, chemistry and biology. Classes in English composition, computer science, health and a foreign language are also recommended. Depending on the type of ultrasound tech program students apply to attend, applicants may be required to provide scores from one or more standardized college assessment exams, including the SAT, ACT, COMPASS, HESI and ASSET tests.

College-Level Prerequisite Coursework

Most ultrasound technology or sonography training programs require applicants to submit proof of completing certain basic college-level classes before beginning a specialized education. For example, applicants to the diagnostic ultrasound training program at Bellevue College in Belleveue, Wash., must have taken English, mathematics, physics, bioethics, sociology, biology (w/ lab) and medical terminology.

Formal Training Program

Sonographers or ultrasound technicians must complete one of the following: a year-long certificate program, offered at hospitals, vocational schools or technical schools; a two-year associate degree program; or a four-year bachelor's degree program. Students typically attend a two-year associate program, available at community colleges and some universities. Students desiring a liberal arts education in addition to sonography instruction pursue a four-year bachelor's degree. No matter the length, programs should be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).

Program Curriculum

To graduate, ultrasound technology and sonography students must complete coursework consisting of classroom and laboratory instruction, as well as supervised clinical practice. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, curriculum includes anatomy, physiology, basic physics, instrumentation, medical ethics and patient care. Allied-Health-Schools.com lists additional courses student's should expect, including abdominal ultrasound and small parts, obstetric and gynecology ultrasound, vascular ultrasound, physics and instrumentation, sectional anatomy, medical terminology, anatomy of the heart, physiology of the heart, pathophysiology of the heart, vascular ultrasound and ultrasound physics.

Tags: must complete, technology sonography, ultrasound technology, ultrasound technology sonography, bachelor degree, clinical practice

Clerk Job Duties

An office clerk fills in wherever needed around the office.

A clerk provides support in an office or business environment through the completion of a variety of tasks on an as-needed basis. Many of these tasks are tedious and repetitive and would use up time other staff members need for the completion of their own tasks. A clerk's tasks are also important to the overall operation of the office or business. No formal education is needed to work as a clerk, though computer skills are an asset. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2008, clerks in an office setting earn between $16,030 and $39,880 per year.

Phone Communication

Businesses often have one or more people answering client calls on the phone.

In a busy office or business, phone communication often starts as soon as the business opens and doesn't end until the close of the day. Clerks often assist with making client calls, calling to remind people of appointments or meetings and answering the phone to provide information, directions or respond to questions. The clerk may work as a phone operator, taking calls and redirecting them to the appropriate person. When a staff member is unavailable, the clerk will need to take a detailed message so the call can be returned at a later time. Proper phone etiquette is a very important part of answering the phone, as the clerk may be the only contact a customer has with the company.

Updating Records

When payments, sales records or invoices come into an office, they are often placed in an appropriate file or work bin until there is time to take care of them appropriately. The clerk will file some of these documents and use others to update written and computer records. The process of updating records is vital to the company. If sales records aren't updated, a company may run out of inventory and have to turn sales away. Additionally, as the clerk updates payments made by customers and payments sent by the company, she assists the accounting department so they know which customers need a payment reminder and which outstanding bills still need to be paid.

Organization

In order to run efficiently and effectively, an office or business environment must be organized, clean and in order. Organizing office supplies, putting things away or delivering documents and other materials to other departments are all tasks that can pile up and take a lot of time to complete. These tasks are often assigned to the office clerk. She may assist with organization by cleaning and organizing the staff lounge, straightening desks, delivering office supplies to different people and distributing mail to different departments. As she completes these tasks the office clerk provides support to other staff members around her.

Tags: office business, office clerk, answering phone, assist with, business environment, clerk provides

What Happens With A Pap Smear

Procedure

A Pap smear is a test women should have taken at least once every three years by their family doctor or gynecologist. To prepare for the procedure, the woman removes her clothing from at least the waist down, puts on a hospital gown and lies down on the exam table on her back. When the doctor or nurse practitioner comes in to the room, the patient is asked to place her feet on stirrups that are strategically placed far apart in order for the examiner to have a clear view of the vaginal area. The doctor then places a speculum at the opening of the vagina. The speculum is an instrument that holds the vaginal area wide open in order for the doctor to be able to perform the Pap smear.

The doctor gently cleans the vaginal area before using a tool (either a scraper or a cervical brush) to scrape off samples of the lower part of the uterus, called the cervix. The sample, or specimen, is then secured on a glass slide or in a tube along with a solution that helps to preserve the contents. After the sample is taken, it is shipped off to a lab where technicians closely examine the cells for any signs of cancer or other abnormal conditions.

Testing

Most Pap smears are classified under a system known to doctors as the Bethesda System. When looked at carefully underneath a powerful microscope, lab technicians must first determine if there is a sufficient amount of cells present in the specimen to be able to be accurately evaluated. Normal samples are commonly labeled "negative for intraepithelial lesion or malignancy." Abnormal samples are classified into one of five types of more specific abnormalities. A doctor may decide to perform another Pap smear or a colposcopy in order to obtain a biopsy of cervical tissue to determine if abnormalities are really something to be concerned about. This follow-up is important because cervical cancer results when abnormal cells spread farther into the vaginal area. Early detection is the key to successfully managing cervical cancer.

Recommendations

Women should begin to have Pap smears soon after they become sexually active, and definitely by age 21. There are a few things for women to consider before scheduling a Pap smear. The best time for the test to be taken is 10-20 days after the first day of the most recent period. It is recommended to avoid douching, using vaginal creams or medicines, or having sexual intercourse for a couple days prior to the test. These things may interfere with the accuracy of the results.

Tags: vaginal area, cervical cancer

How Does Skin Grafting Work

What Is a Skin Graft, and Why Is It Used?

A skin graft is a type of medical procedure in which skin is transplanted. It can be used to treat very large wounds or extensive burns. It can also be used to treat areas that have been infected and in which some skin has been lost. In addition, some surgeries require the removal of large areas of skin; skin grafts can be used to replace the skin that was removed. A partial-thickness graft involves the removal of just a layer of healthy skin to be placed on the grafting site. Full-thickness grafts involve cutting away an area of skin from a healthy section, to be placed at the graft site. There is a higher risk that this kind of graft will be rejected, but it is less painful and heals more quickly.

Sources for Skin Grafts

An autologous graft is one in which the skin graft is taken from a healthy area on the patient's body. Isogeneic graphs are those taken from an identical twin. Allogeneic grafts are those from the same species (i.e., a human donor for a human patient). Finally, some skin grafts can be made from artificial skin. Some grafts can also be taken from other animals, though these grafts are temporary and are designed to be rejected by the person receiving the donor skin. The main purpose of this type of graft is to minimize infection. In general, the best grafts are ones in which the donor is either the patient or someone closely related to him.

Surgical Procedure

Surgeons use a special instrument called a dermatome to remove the strips of skin from the donor. The skin graft is then carefully placed on the area that needs it. At this point, the graft is held in place by either small stitches or staples. The graft is nourished using plasmatic imbibation, in which the graft is given plasma to "drink." Within 36 hours, new blood vessels begin to grow from the graft to the underlying tissue. Grafts are often made up of a meshwork of small cuts that help prevent fluid buildup, as well as allow the graft to stretch and cover the area more accurately. Often, a small, airtight dressing is put over the graft; the air is then sucked out by a vacuum. This reduces the chance of infection and speeds up the healing process.

Tags: taken from, donor skin, from healthy, graft then, skin from

Become An Obstetrician/Gynecologist

An obstetrician/gynecologist (OB/GYN) is a physician who incorporates medical and surgical care to women and has a high level of expertise in pregnancy, childbirth and the health of the reproductive system. Requiring years of training and preparation, becoming an OB/GYN is both challenging and rewarding.

Instructions

1. Prepare beginning in high school. Acceptance to medical school requires excellent grades, involvement in leadership and extracurricular activities, and an interest in science and medicine.

2. Receive an undergraduate degree. Coursework in pre-med is helpful, but not required. Experience in courses such as biology, chemistry, genetics, physics and organic chemistry are helpful.

3. Take a medical school entrance exam and apply to medical schools.

4. Obtain a Medical Degree (M.D.) from an accredited university. Medical school traditionally takes four years.

5. Apply for residency in an OB/GYN program. These residency programs last 4 years. Once graduated from an OB/GYN residency, you will be able to practice this specialty of medicine as a licensed physician.

Tags: medical school

College Vs Trade School

College campus

Colleges and trade schools fulfill different functions for students with individual financial, career and practical concerns. A student's career goal is often the primary factor in choosing between trade school and undergraduate college.

Function

Trade schools provide specific, practical, job-related training to students. While there are specialized four-year colleges, most emphasize critical thinking skills, allowing the student to concentrate on one or two areas of study.

Considerations

On average, graduates of undergraduate colleges and trade schools earn more than high school graduates. Some trades learned in trade school, such as plumbing or electrical work, offer income that is competitive with that of college graduates. College graduates generally earn more than trade school graduates.

Cost

Financial aid, student loans and grants are available to students wishing to pursue either a college degree or vocational training at a trade school. A four-year college degree usually costs significantly more than a trade school.

Time Frame

To earn a bachelor's degree, a student must pursue a full-time education for four years. Most students attend classes during the day. Trade schools vary in class session times, but many encourage and include work apprenticeships as part of the program, so it is often easier for a student to work a full-time job and attend trade school.

Misconceptions

Some believe that trade school students are taking an easier educational route. In fact, many trade school students have decided to attend trade school with finances and careers in mind.

Tags: trade school, more than, trade school, attend trade, attend trade school, college degree, earn more

Cancel An Aflac Policy

Supplemental insurance provides money for personal expenses when you are injured.

Aflac provides supplemental insurance, life insurance and disability insurance for individuals and those on employee plans with a business. The company's supplemental insurance provides money to pay for expenses when you are injured rather than covering doctors and hospital bills. This can be very helpful for individuals, as injuries often mean they can not work for a period of time. There are many reasons that a user might wish to cancel an Aflac policy, however, and the procedure is fairly straightforward.

Instructions

1. Contact a human resources representative at your company if you have enrolled in an Aflac plan through your employer. In many cases, the plan premium is deducted directly from your paycheck, so it is important to have your employer make the necessary changes in their system, as well as guiding you through the cancellation process. Many employee plans only allow changes to be made during certain periods, or after a major life change, such as marriage. You may be required to wait a certain period of time before you can cancel your policy.

2. Call 1-800-992-3522 to reach Aflac directly by phone if you have enrolled in your plan as an individual, not tied to any specific employer. The representative will note the request for cancellation and send you documentation to sign and either fax or mail back to the company to complete your request in writing.

3. Fill out the required documentation provided by your employer or by Aflac and either return it to your employer or fax or mail the documentation to Aflac as per their specific instructions.

4. Call Aflac or speak to your human resources representative a few weeks after submitting your paperwork to ensure that the policy has indeed been cancelled.

Tags: your employer, employee plans, expenses when, expenses when injured, have enrolled

About The Avon Walk For Breast Cancer

The Avon Walk for Breast Cancer is an event in which thousands of people come together for a weekend devoted to a common goal: to raise funds for breast cancer awareness, screening and diagnosis, treatment, support services, and scientific research. While the Avon Foundation gives grants to regional and national breast cancer organizations, it has made it a priority to return funds to the geographic area in which the funds have been raised.

The Walk

The Avon Walk for Breast Cancer is a 39-mile weekend event held in different cities throughout the United States. Participants may choose to walk a marathon (26.2 miles) or a marathon and a half (39.3 miles) over the course of two days.

Schedule

The 2009 dates and locations for the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer include the following:

Houston, April 4 to 5

Washington, D.C., May 2 to 3

Boston, May 16 to 17

Chicago, June 6 to 7

Rocky Mountains, June 27 to 28

San Francisco, July 11 to 12

Los Angeles, September 12 to 13

New York, October 10 to 11

Charlotte, October 24 to 25

Registration

The walk is open to both men and women. The minimum age is 16, and the registration fee is $65. After registering, walkers receive a training T-shirt, a training packet and a "Walker Buddy" who will assist with the walker's physical training and with fund raising. Each walker is encouraged through training walks and meetings.

Fund Raising

Each participant in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer is asked to raise a minimum of $1,800. Raising the money is not a problem, according to the Avon Foundation, because once participants have registered, advisers are available to give advice and support. One of the ways walkers have raised money in the past is through the creation of a web page devoted to the cause. During the training period, meetings are held to encourage and assist in ways to raise funds.

Provisions

There are three types of stops along the walk: Quick Stops are for toilet usage and to grab a drink; Rest Stops are set up with rest areas, medical services and snacks; and Lunch Stops have the same services as the Rest Stops plus lunch. Plenty of water and sports drinks are provided; waterless hand cleansers are handed out as well as bug repellent. In addition to the three stops, there is a Wellness Village. Here walkers eat dinner on Saturday and breakfast on Sunday, enjoy entertainment activities, and visit with friends and family who have been invited for this one night.

Tags: Avon Walk, Avon Walk Breast, Walk Breast, Walk Breast Cancer, Breast Cancer, Avon Foundation, breast cancer

Find A Job With Bad Credit

Find a Job With Bad Credit

A bad credit history can do more than just get in the way of securing a loan or applying for a new credit card. Unpaid debts and other bad credit history items can stand in the way of you getting a job. If you're looking for a new job, you'll have to know how your credit history can affect you, and get past it and get the job.

Instructions

Find a Job With Bad Credit

1. Know your credit history. Looking for a job can be hard enough without worrying that your financial and credit history will come back to haunt you. Before you start looking for a job, you need to make sure you know what your credit history is. Every consumer is entitled to a free copy of their credit report once a year. You can go to http://www.ftc.gov/freereports to get yours. If you've already received your yearly free report, you'll have to contact the three consumer credit reporting agencies, or one of the companies that does it for you. Review your reports and be able to explain any unpaid bills or collection actions.

2. Know what your employer can and cannot do. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, employers can only review your credit history under certain conditions. As the consumer, you have the right to allow them to inquire into your credit history. If you deny them this right, they cannot legally look at your credit report. However, the employer will probably look at your refusal negatively. If you do grant the employer the right to look at your credit history, they don't necessarily get to look at the entire thing. They can see any history of bad debts or delinquent payments, but not your credit score. If you have such items on your credit history (which you already know about because you checked your credit), you can often explain to the employer the circumstances around the item.

3. Begin the rebuilding process. Even if you have a bad credit history, you can begin rebuilding or restoring your credit immediately. To do this, you have to act like a responsible debtor. This means making all bill payments on time, paying off credit card balances at the end of each month and keeping the amount you have on your credit card at no more than 30% of the limit. You can then show the employer that you've taken steps to improve your credit and acted responsibly. This can go a long way to mitigate the impact of a negative credit history.

Tags: your credit, credit history, your credit history, credit card, Find With, Find With Credit, look your

Common Operating Room Instruments

Surgical instruments must be within easy reach of a surgeon during an operation.

Operating room instruments are in place to allow a doctor quick access to them for all medical procedures. Certain medications and instruments are commonplace in the operating room so that doctors and nurses may make quick decisions to provide the best care for critically injured patients with no lost time.

Scalpel

A scalpel is the sharpest cutting tool commonly found in an operating room. Scalpels are used by surgeons to make initial incisions in the body of the patient. The blade is designed to make the point of incision clean, which shortens the healing time and allows the surgical team to better control bleeding while the operation is underway.

Bandage and Clothing Medical Scissors

Bandage and clothing medical scissors look like ordinary scissors save for the bend in the twin blades after the two are joined. This bend allows for a decrease in drag as the instrument is used to quickly remove clothing in an emergency-room setting or to remove bandages from a patient without disturbing the wound being covered.

Defibrillator/Monitor

A defibrillator unit is often kept on hand in operating rooms in the case of sudden heart stoppage. The unit's two paddles send an electric shock through the patient's body and into the heart, hopefully jump-starting the pumping of the dense muscle. Most units are portable, weighing less than 14 lbs., and may be used in multiple emergency situations over the course of a day.

Tags:

Prostate Cancer Vs Bone Cancer

There are hundreds of different cancers, including bone cancer and prostate cancer. They have different characteristics, and while both are deadly, prostate cancer is much more widespread and causes more deaths than bone cancer.

Identification

Bone cancer is a malignant tumor that originates in the bone or originates elsewhere in the body and spreads to the bone. Bone cancer that spreads from another part of the body is referred to as "secondary bone cancer." Prostate cancer starts in the prostate gland, which is part of the male reproductive system and is located between the bladder and rectum.

Symptoms

Bone cancer causes pain and swelling near a bone, but these symptoms can be caused by other bone conditions. Prostate cancer symptoms include urinary problems, erectile dysfunction, and bloody urine or semen.

Detection

Bone cancer is detected through a physical exam and a diagnostic test such as an x-ray or bone scan. Screening methods to detect prostate cancer include a rectal exam and a blood test.

Who It Affects

Osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma family of tumors are bone cancers that mostly affect young people under 19 years of age. Chondrosarcoma is a type of bone cancer that affects adults over age 40 years. Prostate cancer is most common in older men.

Statistics

According to the National Cancer Institute, bone cancer accounts for an estimated 1,470 deaths each year in the Unites States, while prostate cancer claims the lives of more than 27,000 Americans. There are also nearly 190,000 more new cases of prostate cancer than bone cancer each year.

Tags: bone cancer, Bone cancer, bone cancer, cancer that, each year, prostate cancer

Side Effects Of Breast Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy, or radiotherapy, is commonly used to treat a variety of cancers. When a patient has breast cancer, this form of treatment can target the infected area to remove or destroy cancerous cells. However, like any form of medical treatment, radiation therapy has side effects that may vary from one patient to the next.

Fatigue

Fatigue is the most common side effect of breast radiation treatment. Going beyond feeling tired, fatigue is when a person feels drained for no discernible reason, such as exercising or running errands could explain. Fatigue may result in losing interest in things patients liked to do before their treatment, a general lack of energy, an uncaring attitude toward personal appearance, and a desire to sleep more.

Chest Pain

During or immediately following breast radiation treatments, patients may feel shooting pains in the chest. The reason for this is fairly simple. While the radiation treatment is destroying cancerous cells, it's also irritating nerve endings and making them swell. Painkillers may be given to alleviate these effects, but the choice is up to the doctor.

Heart Problems

Heart problems are another possible side effect of breast radiation therapy. A patient might feel that his heart's rhythm is becoming irregular (either too slow or too fast), or he could possibly experience a heart attack. Physicians watch for this possibility and can prescribe medication to minimize risk or prevent recurrence if heart problems do appear.

Breathing Issues

Other possible side effects of breast radiation therapy are lung problems. Patients undergoing these treatments might feel short of breath, or find that they have a persistent dry cough for no apparent reason. The doctor should be informed if either of these conditions occur, as it could be a sign of more serious problems (such as blood clots moving into the lungs), but more often it's just an uncomfortable side effect that can be treated.

Expectations

Not all patients who undergo breast radiation therapy experience these or any other side effects. Every person's health is different, so some people may experience all, some, or none of these. However, if patients are feeling any of these side effects, or others that aren't listed, they should inform their doctor.

Tags: breast radiation, radiation therapy, side effect, side effects, breast radiation therapy, cancerous cells, effect breast

Prostate Biopsy Side Effects

A prostate biopsy is a test doctors use to help detect prostate cancer. A needle is inserted in the prostate gland to gather a sample of the prostate tissue. Doctors check the prostate sample for high prostate-specific antigen, or PSA levels, and for cancerous cells. Here are some of the side effects that accompany a prostate biopsy exam.

Urinary Tract Infection

A common side effect of a prostate biopsy exam is a urinary tract infection. This can be a painful infection that requires treatment with antibiotics.

Heavy Bleeding

As a result of a prostate biopsy you may experience heavy bleeding. This may cause some of the cancerous cells to be released in your bloodstream.

Problems Urinating

You may find it difficult to urinate. Consult your doctor immediately if this happens.

Discomfort

You may feel slight pain and discomfort for a few days after undergoing a prostate biopsy.

Blood in the Semen

According to the Mayo Clinic "Up to half the men who have a prostate biopsy report blood in their semen after the procedure."

Tags: prostate biopsy, biopsy exam, cancerous cells, prostate biopsy exam

Prostate Biopsy Preparation

A needle biopsy of the prostate, in which tissue is removed to check for cancer, can cause apprehension and anxiety. A biopsy, however, is the only way the medical field has to diagnose prostate cancer effectively. According to the 2001 California Cancer Journal for Clinicians, about 200,000 cases of prostate cancer are diagnosed in the United States each year and 32,000 men die of the disease annually. There is no benefit to delaying a biopsy if medically indicated.

When a Biopsy is Indicated

The American Urologic Association recommends that most men begin prostate cancer screening at age 50 with a prostate-specific antigen level (PSA) test, coupled with a digital rectal exam (DRE). PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland and is associated with prostate cancer when it rises above a certain level. An abnormality in either of these tests may warrant a biopsy.

Early Biopsies

Prior to the PSA test, prostate cancer was usually suspected following an abnormal DRE, or after advanced symptoms appeared, such as bone pain. Performed under general anesthesia, early biopsies were guided by finger touch. The physician would insert a needle equipped with a pair of cutting blades into the suspicious area of the prostate gland and remove one to three tissue cores, each measuring one inch long.

Current Biopsy Procedure

Today the transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) guided prostate biopsy is used. It is an imaging technique in which the prostate gland is examined by an ultrasound probe inserted in the rectum. The spring-loaded, hand-held biopsy gun fires a hollow 18-gauge needle into the prostate gland, then immediately sends a sheath to slice off and gather a core of prostate tissue. Commonly, 10 to 12 core samples, 12 to 15 mm long, are adequate.

Preparation

A biopsy is usually performed in an urologist's office or sometimes in a radiology department. A patient may be requested to take a Fleet enema and a broad spectrum antibiotic such as ciprofloxacin (Cipro) immediately before the procedure. Additionally, you may be asked to cease ingestion of aspirin, any anti-inflammatory medications, warfarin (Coumadin), herbal supplements, as well as vitamin E one week before the biopsy to minimize bleeding.

Patients who normally follow a powerful antibiotic regimen before dental treatment should follow the same regimen before a prostate biopsy.

Test

The test itself involves about 15 minutes for the ultrasound evaluation, plus 10 minutes to retrieve the tissue core samples. If a local anesthetic is administered, plan on another 10 minutes for it to take effect.

You will normally be asked to lie on your side in a loose fetal position. The ultrasound probe, about two to three inches long, will be inserted gently into your rectum. Discomfort from the needles is fleeting, and you should feel minimal pain. After the core samples are obtained, they will be sent to a pathologist for evaluation.

Tags: prostate cancer, prostate gland, core samples, prostate biopsy, regimen before, ultrasound probe

The Nurse'S Daily Duties

Nurses provide patient care in conjunction with doctors.

Nurses can expect excellent job prospects, with 22 percent job growth projected through 2018, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Registered nurses earned $51,640 to $76,570 in 2008. Nurses can specialize in an array of areas, from pediatric care or gynecology to hospice care or rehabilitation. Regardless of the field of specialty, all nurses perform a range of common daily duties.

Patient Care

A nurse's main daily duty is patient care at all levels: greeting the patient, talking to visitors and family members, obtaining food orders for the patient, getting beverages or snacks, prepping the patient for surgery or other procedures and responding to the patient's needs. Typically, a nurse will be assigned to a wing of a hospital or a round of patients who need care at home and will provide care one individual at a time. A nurse should be able to keep track of the care provided for all patients under her care from memory and with the help of medical records.

Administering Medication

From chronic conditions like bed sores and cracked skin, nurses diagnose common patient problems and provide medication, including painkillers for patients in a lot of pain. Nurses diagnose the patient by observing symptoms, checking vital signs and talking to the patient. They obtain and dispense medication to the patient and are responsible for choosing the right type of medication and the correct dose range.

Maintaining Records

Nurses must maintain patients' medical records through all aspects of treatment, from initial intake to follow-up care. Hospitals, clinics and other businesses maintain their own medical records; some may have more paperwork a nurse must complete. Nurses can develop alone or in tandem with a medical team a patient's care plan during a time of illness and follow-up plan and must maintain appropriate records.

Communication

Whether working in a hospital or clinic or as a visiting nurse, no nurse cares for a patient alone. Nurses work together as a team and in conjunction with doctors, specialists and other medical professionals. Nurses need to communicate with their fellow nurses, doctors and medical caregivers about every part of a patient's care, including administering medication, taking vital signs, moving and bathing patients and answering patients' questions.

Tags: medical records, patient care, conjunction with, conjunction with doctors, must maintain, vital signs, with doctors

Diagnostic Medical Imaging Schools

Diagnostic medical sonographers operate equipment that produces images from within the body that help doctors diagnose ailments.

Diagnostic medical imaging is also called diagnostic medical sonography. Sonographers operate equipment that produces images from within the body to help doctors diagnose ailments. These programs can be found at community colleges and private educational institutions. According to Indeed.com, the average annual salary for sonographers in the U.S. is $74,000 as of May 2010.

Institute of Allied Medical Professions

The Institute of Allied Medical Professions is a private educational institution with multiple campuses in the Eastern United States. IAMP offers a fully accredited diagnostic medical sonography program in New York City, Atlanta and Delray Beach, Florida. Depending on the location, IAMP offers the DMS program as a certificate, diploma or associate's degree program. The length of the program varies, but it generally takes about two years to complete one. Classes include principles of allied medical professions, principles of sonographic physics and instrumentation, principles of abdominal sonography, and sonographic obstetrical diagnostics. Graduates of either DMS program are eligible to take the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography certification exam to become a certified sonographer.

Institute of Allied Medical Professions

405 Park Avenue

New York, NY 10022-9425

212-758-1410

iamp.edu‎/

Hillsborough Community College

Hillsborough Community College is a public community college with multiple campus locations in Tampa, Florida. HCC offers a fully accredited associate's degree program in diagnostic medical sonography. The program is 72 credits and makes you eligible to take the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography certification exam. Coursework includes basic sonography, sonographic scanning protocol, obstetric and gynecology in sonography, introduction to cross sectional anatomy and abdominal sonography. This program takes about two years to complete.

Hillsborough Community College

39 Columbia Drive

Tampa, FL 33606-3584

813-253-7000

hccfl.edu/

College of Career Training

College of Career Training is a private college located in Sacramento, California. CCT offers a fully accredited certificate program in diagnostic medical sonography. CCT offers 15-month basic and 24-month advanced DMS programs. Both prepare graduates to become licensed sonographers, but the advanced program contains more training and coursework. Concepts include abdominal sonography, small body parts, OB/GYN, echocardiography and vascular.

College of Career Training

7220 Fair Oaks Boulevard

Carmichael, CA 95608

916-481-9001

cctcal.net/

Tags: abdominal sonography, Allied Medical Professions, Career Training, College Career, College Career Training

Skin Rashes & Changes In Melanin

After a rash, you may notice changes in your skin pigmentation, caused by changes in melanin.

Melanin is a substance that creates the pigmentation, or color, of a person's skin. However, there are various illnesses that can cause changes in melanin, affecting pigmentation. Changes in melanin are occasionally seen after rashes, skin infections, burns and blisters, as the skin attempts to recover. While some illnesses that cause changes in melanin are not curable, melanin changes after a rash are not permanent, and typically go away after a period of time.

Hyperpigmentation

One of the changes in melanin that can occur is characterized as a darkening of the skin, also known as hyperpigmentation. Increased melanin causes spots or areas of the skin to darken, and typically occur after illness, medications or rashes. Hyperpigmentation can also occur during pregnancy. Hyperpigmentation during pregnancy is called melasma and appear as dark patches or blotches on the face. While this is common to pregnancy, it can also occur in men and non-pregnant women. Exposure to sunlight will only worsen the condition.

Hypopigmentation

Hypopigmentation has the opposite affect on the skin. Decreased melanin causes the lightening of the skin. The most common, incurable forms of hypopigmentation include vitiligo, characterized by smooth white patches on the skin, and albinism, which is the absence of melanin, leaving the skin without pigmentation. Vitiligo can be treated cosmetically. Hypopigmentation is also characteristic of scars left by a skin rash. However, this form of hypopigmentation typically repairs itself over time.

After a Rash

Certain rashes, such as eczema, psoriasis, fungal infections, lichen planus and prtyriasis rosecea are known for causing changes in melanin, also known as post inflammatory hyper or hypopigmentation. After a rash a person may experience hyperpigmentation due to the fact that cells are working extra hard to produce melanin, thereby causing a darkening of the skin. Individuals with darker skin may experience hyperpigmentation after a bout of acne. On the opposite end of the spectrum, scars that are hypopigmented will appear as white elliptical discs on the skin.

What to Do

The most important thing you can do before worrying about the pigmentation of your skin is effectively treat the rash. Treating changes in melanin before treating the rash itself may make things worse. Changes in melanin after a rash are likely to fade over time. You can enhance repair time with natural and chemical treatments, such as rubbing ginger on the skin, which has shown effective for hypopigmentation after four to 12 weeks. Consult your doctor regarding chemical treatments for hyperpigmentation.

Tags: changes melanin, after rash, After rash, also known, also occur, cause changes, cause changes melanin

Animal Testing Laws

Laws govern the testing of human products on animals for harm and effectiveness. Some laws limit the abuse to animals, while some encourage testing. Animal activists are against such testing, calling it cruelty. Many scientists also question its effectiveness because it has been shown that an animal may not be the best indicator of a human's reaction to a product. Some organizations are pushing other methods of product testing.

Function

Animals are used to test various products, including cosmetics, chemicals, pesticides and food, before they are used by people. Laws have been enacted to provide protocol for this testing to determine the benefit of the product and evaluate it against the harm its testing can cause animals. There are several laws regarding animal testing, some that limit what can be done, and some that encourage testing on animals. Many animals are used in testing, including dogs, guinea pigs, monkeys (several species including chimpanzees), mice, cats, rabbits, ferrets and sheep.

Controversy

Many ethical concerns have been raised about animal testing; in certain cases it does harm animals, sometimes poisoning them until they die. This is done in the name of marketing a new product to humans. There are several laws that even encourage companies to test on animals, including the Toxic Substances Act of 1976.

Disadvantages

There is also controversy about the validity of an animal's reaction to a product vis a vis a human's. For example, tests that showed a chemical's danger of causing birth defects in rats produced different results for humans.

Size

With animals such as rats and mice bred for laboratory use not even counted in U.S. experiment statistics, it is expected that chemical testing in just one new EPA program could kill about 160,000 animals. The government estimates that 10 percent of all animal testing is done solely for products.

Progress

The U.S. is beginning to use alternatives to animal testing. The National Research Council is pushing companies to switch to testing on human cells. The council feels that animal testing should only be used in difficult cases because it is slower and more costly than the new methods. Many feel that using human cells will yield a better result when it comes to predicting a human's reaction to a product.

Tags: animal testing, reaction product, encourage testing, have been, human cells

Information On Careers In Ultrasound Technology

The use of ultrasound, or sonographic, technology is increasing as it proves to be a safer alternative to radiation procedures. The technology is used for a variety of medical diagnostic purposes, from tracking fetal development to detecting cancer. Learning to properly use the equipment takes training. If you are interested in a career as an ultrasound technician, and are willing to obtain the necessary education, you just may find yourself in high demand.

Job Description

Ultrasound technicians, sometimes called sonographers, explain the procedure to the patient and position the patient for imaging. They use a transducer to take the image, ensuring that the equipment is set to the proper setting and positioned so that it captures the desired image.

Specialties

Ultrasounds are often used for pregnancies. Images are used to monitor the fetus's growth and development. They are used for a variety of other purposes as well. Ultrasounds are used to detect and treat problems in the gallbladder, kidneys and other abdominal areas. Technicians can also take scans of the brain and nervous system to detect disorders. Ultrasound it also used in addition to mammography to detect breast cancer. Technicians can specialize in any of these areas.

Workplace

More than half of all ultrasound technicians work in hospitals, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. They are also employed at physicians' offices, outpatient care centers, universities or medical imaging laboratories.

Education Required to Become and Ultrasound Technician

Many ultrasound technicians complete degree programs, such as those accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Allied Health Education Programs. These programs are offered mostly through colleges and universities.

Degree programs in diagnostic medical sonography are offered at the associate's and bachelor's level. As of September 2009, there were 173 accredited programs being offered, according to the CAAHEP. Students study anatomy, physiology, patient care and medical ethics while they learn operate the ultrasound equipment.

Professional Certification

Professional certification or licensing is not a requirement, but some employers prefer it. The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography awards the Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer credential to ultrasound technicians. Technicians meeting the education and clinical experience prerequisite may sit for the ARDMS examination.

Career Outlook and Salary

The use of diagnostic imaging is on the rise due to both the increasing aging population and the increasing use of this technology as a safer substitute for radiation procedures. The increase in use also increases the demand for ultrasound technicians. The BLS predicts above average job growth for ultrasound technicians through 2016. Mean annual wages for ultrasound technicians were reported at $62,660 as of May 2008.

Tags: ultrasound technicians, Diagnostic Medical, radiation procedures, used variety

Health Insurance Verification Tools

Health Insurance Verification Tools

Both patients and their health care providers should verify health insurance coverage before seeking or providing services. Confirming health insurance eligibility prior to rendering services will save administrative and financial hassles later should the patient not have coverage at the time of the service. Health insurance verification tools are essential to confirming eligibility and take shape in the form of several different methods. The upfront research with these tools to verify health insurance coverage is worth the effort for all.

Telephonic Customer Service

Most, if not all, health insurance companies offer a customer service phone number to verify health insurance information. They often have separate phone number or routing options for their members and health care providers. Any member or provider can call the insurance plan to verify health insurance eligibility. He must have the patient's name, social security or member identification number and date of birth at the time of the call. With this information in hand, the insurance company representative can confirm patient eligibility at the time of the call. Some insurers have automated this process so eligibility can be confirmed through an interactive voice response system rather than speaking with a representative.

Identification Cards

Members of a health plan, whether it is a commercial health plan or government-based health plan such as Medicare or Medicaid, will receive an identification card. The card serves the purpose of verifying a member's participation in a health plan. The member ID card will contain the member's name, member ID number and health plan name, at a minimum. Depending on the type of plan, it may also contain the name of the patient's primary care physician. Providers should ask for the card before rendering services and make a copy of the front and back of the card to add to the patient's record for reference.

Online Verification Tools

Health insurers often maintain websites for the members and providers. These sites require registration to obtain a log-in. Within the website, the member can access information about her health insurance plan and often can confirm the benefits available to her . Providers who have contracted to participate in the health plans network can look up patients on the website to confirm their patient's eligibility and coverage. Usually updated daily and sometimes in real-time, these tools provide the most current information available. Medicare's website allows people to see if they are eligible for Medicare services (see Resources), and several states offer providers an option of eligibility verification online for Medicaid programs.

Tags: health plan, verify health, verify health insurance, health insurance, Verification Tools

Federal Laws & Regulations That Apply To Health Insurance

Federal health insurance laws include ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA and HCERA.

Health insurances usually require people to pay a monthly premium to receive protection from financial medical burdens. The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) and its amendments, the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1986 (COBRA) and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), as well as the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (HCERA) comprise four federal laws that each protect U.S. health insurance coverage.

HCERA

HCERA allows individuals with preexisting conditions to get access to health care coverage. It also bans insurance companies from implementing lifetime caps on coverage as well as dropping individuals from coverage plans when they become ill. HCERA allows small businesses that offer health insurance to receive tax credits of up to 35 percent of premiums. As of 2011, HCERA requires insurers to spend a minimum amount of their premium dollars on medical services; 80 percent for the individual and small-group market, and 85 percent for the large-group market. Those that do not must provide rebates to policyholders. Insurance companies must also provide justification for premium increases.

COBRA

COBRA is a health insurance continuation law that covers individuals at companies that employ 20 or more people and provide a group health insurance plan. COBRA requires employers that terminate or reduce hours of individuals to continue providing health insurance coverage for up to 18 months or when the individual becomes eligible for another plan. The individual must pay up to 102% of the cost of the group health care premium to receive COBRA benefits. If he fails to pay he may lose coverage. COBRA also provides coverage for widows and divorcees of eligible people, as well as young adults who lose "dependent child" status and do not have their own health insurance.

HIPAA

HIPAA provides a person with control and protection over his health record information. It limits exclusions of employees and their families from taking advantage of health insurance plans because of preexisting medical conditions. Employers must provide coverage for these conditions no later than 12 months after enrollment of the employee or his dependents. HIPAA also provides continuous coverage from employers to employees who leave the company to start a small business, provided the employee received insurance for at least 18 months with the company. Employers must provide participants with notice of plan privacy rights, train employees about privacy procedures and secure individually identifiable health information. States may extend the HIPAA coverage requirements of health insurance benefits.

ERISA

ERISA allows each state to regulate health insurance policies that an employer can purchase. ERISA protects employees who work for employers that chose self-funded health plans, as opposed to plans offered by insurance companies, by setting minimum standards that a self-funded plan must meet. Plan members must receive a summary plan description (SPD) that contains information about the plan. The SPD must include features and funding, how plan managers spend money and assets, an established appeals process, what services and drugs the plan covers, and lifetime caps or other limits of the plan. State insurance departments do not have authority over ERISA plans. The U.S. Department of Labor regulates them.

Tags: health insurance, must provide, also provides, Employers must, Employers must provide

Radiography Programs In Pennsylvania

Taking X-rays is one of the main responsibilities of a radiographer.

A variety of colleges, universities, and some hospitals offer educational programs for radiography. Programs vary in length based upon what type of degree or certification the student is earning. Some programs may provide only certification while others may result in an associate or bachelor's degree. Students studying radiography train to become certified or registered radiologic technologists, also known as radiographers. There are programs in Pennsylvania that offer all levels of radiography training.

Abington Memorial Hospital School of Radiologic Technology

The School of Radiologic Technology, located in Willow Grove, is a hospital-based educational program. Students work alongside imaging professionals in a hospital setting. Aside from Abington Memorial Hospital, students are also able to participate in clinical rotations at Doylestown Hospital. The program has an articulation agreement with Gwynedd-Mercy College, which allows students to pursue an associate or bachelor's degree.

Abington Memorial Hospital School of Radiologic Technology

2500 Maryland Road

Willow Grove, PA 19090

215-481-5526

amh.org

Community College of Allegheny County

At the Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC), students can pursue an Associate of Science in Radiologic Technology degree. Classes for the program take place on the Boyce campus in Monroeville. Students will acquire the necessary knowledge and clinical experience they need to gain certification.

Community College of Allegheny County

Boyce Campus

595 Beatty Road

Monroeville, PA

15146-1396

724-325-6614

ccac.edu

Drexel University

Drexel University, located in Philadelphia, offers students the opportunity to earn an Associate Degree in Radiologic Technology. The 21-month long program allows students to learn in a classroom setting and through supervised clinical practicum. Students are eligible to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists certification exam upon graduation.

Drexel University

Bellet Building

1505 Race St.

Philadelphia, PA 19102

800-2-DREXEL

drexel.edu

Pennsylvania College of Technology

Students enrolled in the Pennsylvania College of Technology radiography program will learn to become a registered medical radiographer. Along with classroom instruction, students will also participate in clinical learning experiences at affiliated hospitals. Through an articulation agreement with the University of Findlay, students have the option to further their education and earn a bachelor's degree in Nuclear Medicine Technology.

Pennsylvania College of Technology

1 College Ave.

Williamsport, PA 17701

570-326-3716

pct.edu

Sanford-Brown Institute--Pittsburgh

At the Sanford-Brown Institute of Pittsburgh, students can earn an Associate of Specialized Technology Degree in Radiography. The curriculum involves lecture, imaging laboratory and clinical experience. Students should be able to seek entry-level employment as radiographers upon graduation.

Sanford-Brown Institute--Pittsburgh

421 Seventh Ave.

Pittsburgh, PA 15219

412-281-2600

sanfordbrown.edu

University of Pennsylvania Health System -- Radiology Technologist Program

The University of Pennsylvania Medical Center sponsors the program for radiological technologist. It is a full-time program that is equally balanced between classroom and clinical coursework. Students are able to acquire college credits while enrolled in the program through an agreement with Widener University. Upon successful completion of the program, students may choose to enroll for an MRI or CT technologist internship.

Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania

Department of Radiology

3400 Spruce St.

Donner Building

Philadelphia, PA 19104

215-662-7825

uphs.upenn.edu

Tags: Radiologic Technology, Abington Memorial, Abington Memorial Hospital, agreement with, Allegheny County, bachelor degree

Pros & Cons Of Bodybuilding Supplements

Bodybuilding supplements have both positive and negatives aspects

There was a time when someone who exercised did so with physical activities or weights. These bodybuilders ended up with naturally strong bodies. However, once supplements became available, more and more bodybuilders used them to increase strength and muscle mass. Bodybuilders also use supplements to increase energy levels and for their overall health and well-being. Supplements have positive and negative aspects.

Buildup

Exercise and good food contribute to overall good health for men and women. Supplements contain nutrients your body requires for good health that are not always easy to assimilate from a regular diet. Supplements enhance a healthy diet and increase workout efficiency by energizing longer periods of exercise. A supplement regimen helps the body maintain hydration by helping you retain water.

The proper use of supplements helps the bodybuilder, both male and female, produce a well-formed physique that attracts interest.

Health

Before starting any supplement regimen, you should get a complete physical checkup. Don't start using supplements until your doctor has assured you that using supplements will not cause a medical problem. Should you suffer from medical problems, some supplements can do you more harm than good.

Quality Check

Many supplements provide positive benefits. However, you should check the quality of any supplement before buying and before taking. Supplements sold in the United States must meet standards to which other countries may not adhere. If you purchase a supplement outside the United States, be aware that substances banned as dangerous in the United States may be in products purchased elsewhere. Check all labels for a quality control seal or assurance that the product is what you ordered. Check all ingredients and read labels to discover where the product was processed. Make sure that the supplement does not contain a substance to which you may be allergic or otherwise sensitive.

Ingredients

Caffeine and other ingredients may increase concentration and energy in the short term, but can harm you in the long run, especially if you have a caffeine sensitivity. Other ingredients, such as hormone derivatives, increase levels or testosterone. Others may block female estrogen. Adverse reactions to an overabundance of testosterone include acne and/or hair loss. Men may suffer from virility problems. Supplements with required nutrients, derived from natural sources, provide the best enhancement without side effects.

Some supplements promoted in the United States for male and female bodybuilders claim massive strength and muscle mass enhancements. Check out any claims. If they seem too good to be true, be very cautious. Such a supplement may contain more than healthy nutrients.

Tags: United States, good health, male female, muscle mass, strength muscle, strength muscle mass, suffer from

Progesterone Cream For Menopause

As menopause approaches, a woman may begin to experience physical symptoms due to her body's reduced hormone production. According to Dr. Nisha Jackson, author of "The Hormone Survival Guide for Perimenopause," progesterone deficiency is the most common of all hormone deficiencies in women of menopausal age. Progesterone, in cream or gel form, may be custom blended at a pharmacy to a doctor's recommendation, or a woman may choose a natural form of progesterone cream, available over the counter.

Timing

Progesterone cream is used in two common ways. The first entails applying the cream to the skin on the 14th day of a woman's menstrual cycle and continuing to apply it daily for 14 days. The second method instructs the woman to apply the cream every day except for days when she has her period. Women with less severe menopausal symptoms may benefit from the first method and may reduce the number of days to as few as two or three, if desired.

For women who experience intense hot flashes, night sweats or heart palpitations, the second method of applying progesterone cream for a longer regime may be advised. In addition, women who have undergone a surgical hysterectomy may benefit from longer application periods.

Application

Jackson recommends applying between 20 mg and 60 mg of progesterone cream, twice a day for up to 14 days. Since the hormone enters the body through skin absorption, areas where the blood vessels are closer to the skin's surface are optimal. These include the inner portion of the arms, the face, the neck and the inner area on the thighs.

Natural progesterone creams are not as strong as prescription progesterone creams, so more may be needed if you are applying an over-the-counter cream.

Symptom Reduction

After beginning a progesterone application regime, you may feel calmer and you may experience fewer mood swings as well as fewer depressive episodes. As the hormone regulates healthy blood sugar, food cravings may subside. Jackson also reports that women on a progesterone routine may feel less bloated and may retain less water. Sleep may improve if you previously suffered from insomnia; however, if your progesterone dosage is too high for your needs, you may experience excessive sleepiness.

Some women may experience spotting between periods or their menopausal symptoms may increase in severity, although this may only be a temporary side effect. Any bothersome side effects from progesterone cream usage should be reported to your doctor.

Tags: progesterone cream, benefit from, menopausal symptoms, Progesterone cream, progesterone creams, second method

Employability & Skills

Teamwork is a key transferable employable skill.

No matter the state of the economy or the state of the job market, you need certain skills to make you employable. Certain professions have specified skills (such as an accounting degree to be an accountant), but transferable employability skills also are available to get started and maintain a successful professional career.

Leadership and Communication

Being a leader in the workforce has sprung itself to the forefront of skills desired by companies. Leadership means that you can engage with others and successfully encourage others to follow your actions. You can achieve buy-in from your colleagues to work toward a goal of mutual benefit. Your ability to communicate (e.g. issues, ideas) in an engaging manner will carry you a long way in your career.

Teamwork

In few places of work are you left alone at a desk without interacting with other members of your company, other than those who are self-employed. To get and stay employed, you must demonstrate the ability to work as a member of a team. You have to prove that you can be a contributing member by offering ideas, encouraging others, sharing the work and assisting others doing their jobs.

Ethics

The call for ethical and principled behavior has picked up considerably since the fall of major corporations such as Enron to accounting scandals. Employers are looking for ethical and trustworthy people to work for their companies. If you are employed in a position of high trust, such as a financial manager, ethics is key to your success. Besides yourself, you must also be able to hold your co-workers to high moral standards.

Problem-Solving

Problems are a part of life and business. For example, a supplier might call to let you know that your order won't be delivered on time. Problem-solving includes the ability to come up with creative solutions that are also practical. You may also have to come up with multiple solutions in the event that some don't work. A key part of problem-solving is identifying the problem and understanding the issue at hand.

Initiative

Having the ability to take initiative is an important transferable skill that is attractive to employers. They want to see that you have the ability to stand up and take on tasks when required. If you don't have the initiative to, say, learn a new skill that is important to your job, that reflects poorly on you because it shows a lack in interest or willingness to do something to make yourself and the company better.

Tags: come with, skill that