Health All Day

Archive for May, 2010

Women’s Health Care

When the topic of women’s health care is raised, the first disease that comes to mind is probably breast cancer. But surprisingly, that’s not the number one health care issue confronting women today. In fact, heart disease kills more women each year than all forms of cancer combined. By knowing the most significant risks in women’s health care and what you can do to combat these health care issues, women of all ages can take a proactive approach to leading healthier lives.

The #1 Women’s Health Care Issue: Heart Disease More than 489,000 American women lose their lives each year as a result of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular diseases. In fact, more women than men die from heart disease each year. Until recently, little research focused on women and heart disease, but the good news is that’s no longer the case. From research into the effects of hormone replacement therapy on heart health to studies of how cholesterol-lowering medications work in women, there’s an unprecedented increase in the amount of information available to women working to live with and ward off heart disease.

Experts at the Mayo Clinic offer simple common sense advice to women (and men) in the fight against heart disease: don’t smoke, eat a diet low in fat and rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products, exercise at least 30 to 60 minutes a week, and maintain a healthy weight.

In addition, they encourage women to see their family doctor each year for a physical which includes blood pressure and cholesterol screenings. Studies indicate that there is a 46% increase in stroke risk for women for each 7.5 mm HG increase in their diastolic blood pressure, so monitoring blood pressure and controlling hypertension are vital.

Women who suffer migraines, are pregnant, have atrial fibrillation and those with the auto-immune disease Lupus also appear to run a greater stroke risk. Diabetes is another women’s health care issue with a direct impact on heart health. The American Heart Association notes women with diabetes have a two to six times greater risk of heart disease and heart attack and are at a significantly greater risk of suffering a stroke. All of these risk factors make an annual visit with your doctor one of the best ways women can manage and improve the health of their hearts.

Cancer Concerns: The Second Deadliest Health Care Issue Women Face While breast cancer is often at the top of the list of health care issues for women, several other types of cancers also pose a significant threat to women’s health. In this country, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during her lifetime according to current data which means that a little more than 2 million women are currently living with breast cancer in the U.S. But melanoma, a form of skin cancer, actually kills more young women than any other cancer according to statistics provided by the Skin Cancer Foundation. In fact, melanoma is the most common form of cancer in women between the ages of 25 and 29 and its incidence has tripled in women under 40 in the last thirty years.

Ovarian cancer is another women’s health care concern. Usually symptomless until it is widespread, this disease is the fourth most frequent cause of death for American women. The American Cancer Society estimates 26,000 new cases of ovarian cancer diagnosed each year. Unfortunately, there are few definitive screening tests that detect this disease, but experts advise a thorough annual gynecological exam and for women to be alert to pelvic pain and pressure, low back discomfort, mild nausea, and an increase in constipation or gas. A serum CA-125 blood test can detect certain forms of ovarian cancer, but the test is not accurate enough to be used as a routine screening tool.

The rate of women suffering from cervical cancer has dropped a great deal over the years, thanks in part to the increase in the number of women who get an annual Pap smear which can indicate the presence of abnormal cells on the cervix. It’s a strong argument for making sure you never skip your Pap smear. Women who have had Human Papillomaviruses (HPVs), herpes simplex virus, those with suppressed immune systems, and those who have had multiple sexual partners run a greater risk of cervical cancer. On the prevention front, a recent trial of a vaccine against cervical cancer was 100% effective in the short term at blocking the disease.

Psychological Well-being: A Growing Health Care Issue for Women In the field of women’s health care, psychological problems, which include eating disorders, depression, and anxiety disorders, affect millions of American women. From coping skills to medications to alternative and complementary medical approaches, there is a growing body of knowledge being brought to bear on this important health care issue.

More than 19 million people in the United States, the greatest percentage being women, live with anxiety disorders that disrupt their lives. The different types of disorders within this group include generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and phobias. Treatment options include talk therapy and a wide range of medications that can quell the symptoms of the condition. Many women also combine alternative approaches to treatment such as acupuncture, meditation, and diet modification with traditional forms of treatment.

According to the American Psychological Association, women are almost twice as likely to suffer from major depression as men. In fact, some experts in the field have called depression the most significant mental health risk for women, especially those in their childbearing and rearing years. Studies have found that married women and mothers are especially vulnerable to depression. It’s important for a woman who feels she may be suffering from depression to be carefully evaluated by a physician because the source of the depressive symptoms could be birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy, or thyroid disease. Treatment for depression, like most other psychological conditions, includes talk therapy and medications. Some women also find relief in alternative medicine with herbal supplements, meditation, and other complementary techniques.

Though many of the women who struggle with eating disorders are in their teens and twenties, these conditions also affect women at other stages in their lives. Anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating are the most well-known forms of eating disorders. Statistics show that one out of every one hundred girls between the ages of 10 and 20 is anorexic, 4% of college-aged women are bulimic, and 1% of women are binge eaters. The root causes of these diseases include stress at home and at school or work, depression and anxiety, major life changes like a divorce or death, and physical and sexual abuse. Breaking out of the cycle of eating disorders requires a combined approach to this health care issue including psychological treatment, nutrition counseling, and in some cases, hospitalization.

A Holistic Approach to Women’s Health Care As women become more proactive about their health, many seek a holistic approach to improving their well-being and fighting disease. But coordinating information among several health care providers, keeping on top of the latest breakthroughs in health, and finding the United States’ best doctors is a daunting task for any women.

Some are turning to private professional health care advocates, like those available at PinnacleCare, to help them achieve their goal of a whole-woman centered approach to health care issues. From compiling and electronically storing comprehensive medical records to researching treatment options and providing accelerated access to the United States’ top doctors, PinnacleCare’s health advocates make a holistic approach to health care possible.

“I passionately believe that what our PinnacleCare Members experience is the way healthcare ought to be delivered,” explains John Hutchins, PinnacleCare’s Managing Director. “The healthcare system has gotten so complex that most people are at a loss to find their way through it without professional guidance and objective counsel.”

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3 Tips About Home Health Care You Didn?T Know!

1.    You have absolute choice on which home health agency you use.

Did you know you ultimately are the Absolute Decision Maker on who you want to use for therapy and nursing services through home health? While you need to utilize a Medicare Certified Agency to have Medicare and other Payors to pay for services, you have the right to use any home health agency that you want regardless of who currently services the assisted living, hospital or senior independent facility

2.    Not all Home Health agencies use Registered Nurses and Therapists.

Most companies use a combination of RN’s and LPN’s and both Therapists and their assistants for patients. Freedom Home Health feels strongly that full-fledged therapists and registered nurses, who are qualified and licensed to assess the changing needs of clients, best serve continuity and quality of care. The investment in the highest level of education and licensure benefits clients as many seniors have medically complex issues with multiple medications and a long list for their past medical history.

3.    Home Health Care Should Not Cost You a Penny!

It is covered 100% by traditional Medicare Part A. There are no co-pays or limits provided you qualify for home health.

PPO’s and HMO’s have separate payment schedules and you need to check with their guidelines.

Learn more information about Home Health Care and Freedom Home Health

Home Health Care Marketing

Internet users in the US conduct 5 billion searches every month directly on major search sites, and a recent Harris Interactive Poll reported that more than 80% of consumers now research health information online. Imagine how many of those Internet users are actually prospective patients in your area looking for the services you offer, and the money you may be leaving on the table. Search engine marketing is going to revolutionize the way you use your website and how the internet will reach the clients your are giving away to your competition everyday- saving you money and increasing ROI. Consumers are shifting from more traditional types of media consumption to the internet in a new online world. Every day seniors are using the internet to research living options for their parents and themselves. A 2006 Pew Internet study found that 84% of people aged 50-64 reported using the internet for information gathering. As this segment of the population continues to become more internet-savvy and more interested in learning about thier options, your organization’s website will become an ever-increasingly critical part of doing business. Building word of mouth, creating a referral pipeline, and providing proof of care are still the backbone of an effective marketing strategy. However, the dramatic change is how the public demand will effect the way you create this referral dialogue. The availability and the amazing functions of the internet and smart phones have changed how the public expects to receive messages, and to stay in contact. According to Deloitte data, 2009. Baby Boomers are using social media in huge numbers; this age demographic was the fastest growing among Facebook users, with women 55+ leading the way (+175%) and men 55+ trailing just behind (+138%). There are significant opportunities online to measure and improve the efficiency of your website visibility in the search engines, social media, and video sites. We have developed a search engine marketing platform to optimize the sources that provide the best return on marketing spend by targeting your local online market. We are giving your business access to literally thousands of daily searchers, efforts that will produce the most profitable customers. We intended to raise the visibility of your website in the search engines and social media sites across a broad section of targeted keyword search phrases. By providing content-rich media to the search engines, we are able to position your home health care business as a leading provider and expert in the field of home health and private care through the use of various internet marketing tools including:
· Targeted Keyword Research
· Video Marketing
· Article Marketing
· Social Media and Web 2.0 Properties As a result, your agency presents an exclusive, branded look that routinely increases your visibility to the private care client segment and targeted referral sources. The quality and volume of our media distribution will launch your home health care business onto the search engine results pages and rank them above the competition. The goal of the initial media blast is to put your home health business on page one of Google™ searches and to increase traffic and brand recognition within days from start date. All of this is designed to increase client base and revenue without substantially increasing the advertising budget, while at the same time establishing your home health care business as the premier home health and private care provider. Continued keyword targeting and SEO maintenance will keep the website on page one of relevant searches while increasing the volume and range of keyword search phrases You have a unique opportunity to get in front of the competition and position your business online, as the premier home health and private care provider in your area. By dominating the search engine results pages, your business will gain exposure and market share that is now being left on the table. Your website can now be a very powerful addition to your marketing arsenal. Go to: http://www.davidlorensullivan.com/marketing-home-health-care/ for details of the benefits of Search Engine Marketing for the home health care industry and answers to your questions.

Paying For Home Health Care – What Do Medicare and Medigap Cover?

Prescribed only by a physician, home health care is skilled nursing care that aids in the recovery from illness, injury, or surgery in the patient’s home. And fortunately for many seniors who are now opting for care at home, Medicare insurance covers most costs related to home health care. The government, however, has set some limitations on payouts – you are only eligible if you need intermittent care (usually defined as seven days a week or less than eight hours a day over 21 days or less) (1), physical/occupational therapy or speech language pathology; you are homebound; and the home health care agency providing care is approved by your Medicare insurance program. In addition to medication administration, general supervision, and therapy services, the Medicare home health benefit covers a number of other necessities, including medical aids and supplies to aid in recuperation. On the occasion, though, you may be required to cover some of the costs associated with home health care. But what can you expect to pay out-of-pocket that’s not covered by Medicare dollars? Medicare Insurance: Part A and Part B Hospital Insurance (Medicare Part A) helps cover the costs of your inpatient care at hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, or religious non-medical health care establishments. Part A can also help cover hospice and home health care services. Individuals aged 65 and older are usually automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and do not have to pay a monthly premium if Medicare taxes were paid while working. If you did not pay taxes, you are still eligible, but you will be required to pay a monthly premium. Medical Insurance (Medicare Part B) helps cover services such as those offered by your physician and outpatient care. Many seniors maintain their enrollment in Part A, but elect not to use Part B, which requires a monthly premium that is dependent upon income, the requirements of which change yearly. Unfortunately, if you didn’t sign up for Part B when you were first eligible for insurance, your premium may be slightly higher (2). For questions on your Medicare insurance benefits, you should contact 1-800-MEDICARE or read the handbook mailed to you each year entitled “Medicare and You.” What’s Covered and What’s Not Medicare insurance pays for physical and occupational therapy and speech language pathology services, counseling, some medical supplies, durable medical equipment (which must meet coverage criteria), as well as general assistance with daily activities which include dressing, bathing, eating, and toileting. For most other medical equipment, Medicare insurance will cover 80% of its cost (3). However, Medicare will not cover twenty-four hour care at home, meals delivered to your home, and services unrelated to your care such as housekeeping. Of course, as mentioned above, you will be required to pay 20% for medical equipment not fully covered by Medicare insurance such as wheelchairs, walkers, and oxygen tanks (4). In some cases, your home health care agency may present you with a Home Health Advance Beneficiary Notice (HHABN), which, simply put, means if your agency is ceasing your care services, you will be presented with a written statement outlining the supplies and services the agency believes your Medicare insurance benefits will not cover as well as a detailed explanation of why. Should this situation arise, you do have recourse – the HHABN lists directions on acquiring the final decision on payment issues or filing an appeal if Medicare refuses to cover costs for home health care. In the meantime, you should continue receiving home health care services, but keep in mind that you will be paying for these services out-of-pocket until Medicare accepts your claims and remits past expenses. Medigap and Other Out-of-Pocket Expenses Medigap, a supplemental insurance policy, is sold privately and covers the services and supplies not paid for by Medicare insurance. When used in conjunction, Medigap and Medicare can often cover a large majority of the costs of your home health care. Insurance companies offer a variety of different Medigap policies (A through L), but since each one comes with specific benefits, you’ll need to compare the highlights closely. Medigap policies vary by cost, and many insurance companies require you to have both Medicare Parts A and B in order to purchase a supplemental plan (5). For seniors with both Part A and Part B Medicare, your home health care situation is usually covered, save for the 20% out-of-pocket expenses for medical equipment. Just remember to keep track of your Medicare insurance benefits (and Medigap if applicable) by verifying with your physician, home health care agency, and insurance representative. Paying for home health care does not have to cost you an arm and a leg, but do be prepared for the occasional (but necessary) out-of-pocket medical expenses. Sources 1. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Medicare and Home Health Care, page 6 2. Medicare website: “Your Medicare Benefits.” 3. Ibid. 4. Ibid. 5. Medicare website: “Medigap (Supplemental Insurance) Policies.”

Elderly Care – Medical Vs Non-Medical Home Health Care – Discover What You Need

Medical Home Health Care vs. Non-medical Home Health Care…if you are reading this, you are likely among the thousands of caregivers needing help caring for a loved one at home.

What is the difference?

One significant difference is who pays the bill… you or insurance?

With a doctors order and insurance that is accepted by the agency and covers home care, these services are generally covered.

Medical home care provides skilled medical services such as:

Registered Nurse
Physical Therapy
Occupational Therapy
Speech Therapy
Home Health Aid
Medical Social Worker

These medical personnel can only come to your home by an order from the doctor. This can be initiated by a trip to the doctor, a call to the doctor and sometimes a call to a home care agency explaining your difficulty. They can then contact the doctor.

Several questions need to be answered at this point to help you decide what you need.

Is the patient recently home from the hospital?
Is the patient falling at home?
Are you confused about what medications to give the patient?
Is there a significant change in functional ability or decline in activity level recently?
Is the patient frequently going to the ER?

Yes to 2 or more of the above questions may indicate a potential need for medical home health care. Discussing your felt need with your doctor will help you understand the issues and the answers.

You may want to learn how your care is likely affected by how your physical therapist or nurse is paid.

Non-medical home care

If you and your doctor have ruled out the need for medical home care but you still feel you need some help, consider non-medical home care.

Non-medical care means just that. Non medical. These services are often referred to as companion services. Your best bet is to Google “home health assistance” or the like.

You can always call a business and ask if they provide non-medical home care assistance. Beware though, most medical home care company’s WILL provide solely a home health aid but at a ridiculous price.

You may find better rates by hiring a company who provides only non-medical home care assistance. This is what they do best and they generally do it well.

Do your homework and use your phone. Ask the agency how long their workers have been there. Don’t be afraid to pay a little more if you feel you are following your gut. You are depending on these people to give you or your loved one the proper care and respect that they need and deserve.

Marcia Oliver MSPT, CPT is passionate, committed and dedicated to helping you get back into a healthier life. Whether you need help with a transition from rehab to home, how to develop healthier lifestyle habits, helping you lose weight or rehabilitating your total joint replacement, Marcia can help with over 26 years of experience so you win. Her 16 years of home health care physical therapy experience and 10 years of personal training have provided answers to many tough situations.

You’ve Got Goals? We’ve Got Answers! Visit our ever growing site!

http://www.home-health-care-physical-therapy.com/

Home Health Care Career ? A Career For The Future

The trend towards a growing older population that is living longer is already creating high demand in products and services tailored to this demographic.

Home healthcare, assisted living and nursing homes are just some of the areas to benefit.

We see healthcare as a great field for many years to come. Even with breakthrough medical technologies, people will continue to need healthcare workers.   And for those that are aging and somewhere in-between assisted living and an elderly home – home health care may be the option of choice.

Right now, at least a two-year college degree is a consistent requirement to have a career in the home health care industry.  And this usually applies in the administrative areas as well.

Growth in the home healthcare industry can be attributed to an increasing elderly population, growth in chronic disease prevalence, and physician acceptance of homecare, medical advancements and the continued movement towards cost-efficient treatment options from both public and private payers.

Based on a report from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, national expenditures on home healthcare services are projected to reach more than billion by 2014.

In 2003 home healthcare was the fastest growth area for national healthcare spending, behind only prescription drugs. Expectations are that home healthcare spending will eventually overtake prescription drug growth.

Here is a list of some of the growth careers that are in the various ‘top 10 lists’ and otherwise noted at highly active:

Home health aide 56%
Postsecondary teacher 32%
Registered nurse 29%
Customer service representative 23%
Nursing aide, orderly 22%

So this should give you an idea of the overall trend of the industry and the fact that Home Health Care seems to be at the top right now of many lists.

Another one is Industry based and not career based:

Home health care services 69.5%
Management consulting services 60.5%
Employment services 45.5%
Offices of physicians 37.0%

UC San Diego has geriatric care listed at #5 and offers this bit of information to it’s students and potential students:

“….Geriatric healthcare. The growing population of seniors continues to have a major impact on careers in health care.   As the numbers of aging baby boomers increase, so does the demand for certain healthcare jobs and services, including nursing, personal care and home healthcare.”

So as you can tell by the previous  information, the home health care industry is on the grow and whether it be a Nurse, Geriatric Care, Health Care Administrative position or others, theses interested in the Home Health Care Career will find employment opportunities for some time.