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	<title>Vantage Meds &#187; physician</title>
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	<link>http://www.vantagemeds.com</link>
	<description>Providing Varied Information on Healthcare System in The Web</description>
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		<title>How to Use a Doctor&#8217;s Review</title>
		<link>http://www.vantagemeds.com/135/how-to-use-a-doctors-review</link>
		<comments>http://www.vantagemeds.com/135/how-to-use-a-doctors-review#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 03 Aug 2010 16:48:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Vantage Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[doctor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[medical]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[physician]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[physicians]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.vantagemeds.com/?p=135</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[To begin, it&#8217;s important to note that no review should be taken as law. Due to the fact that you are essentially taking someone else&#8217;s word on the topic, there is always room for misinterpretation, misunderstandings, and false allegations. Keeping an open mind when researching a physician is key to finding the doc of your [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: justify;">To begin, it&#8217;s important to note that no review should be taken as law. Due to the fact that you are essentially taking someone else&#8217;s word on the topic, there is always room for misinterpretation, misunderstandings, and false allegations. Keeping an open mind when researching a physician is key to finding the doc of your dreams.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Reviews can come in many forms. From friends and family members, to anonymous internet posts, anyone and everyone can have an opinion. When reading or listening to what someone else has to say, try and take the perspective of the physician.</p>
<p><span id="more-135"></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">It&#8217;s also important to know what you&#8217;re looking for in a doctor. For example, is there a specific condition which might benefit from the expertise of a specialist? What about location? Office staff? Education? Knowing what you&#8217;re looking for ahead of time will help you through the decision making process and allow you to decide which aspects are worth paying attention to, and which ones appear a bit trivial.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Speak with friends and family members to gain recommendations. In general, people are all too happy to provide others with information regarding their physician. Take part in a discussion, outlining what you&#8217;re looking for in a doctor, and compare your wants with the information provided.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Additionally, you can hop online and check out a variety of reviews from past patients, or even check into the various recommendation sites pertaining to the medical field. These sites are ideal in locating physicians who are not only in your area, but also have a good reputation and specialize in the treatment you are interested in. These sites will provide first hand accounts of treatments along with contact information, and an abundance of other information to help you along. You can also use these sites as a means to gather additional information on the recommendations provided from friends and family.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">With the information you&#8217;ve obtained, choose your top three candidates and schedule appointments with each. In general, the first consultation is offered as a free service to prospective patients in order to further evaluate the physician and find out whether they can be of service. Bring in a list of questions and discussion topics and pay attention to how the doctor interacts with you. If you do not feel comfortable or confident in the abilities of the physician, you may want to politely pass and move along to the next candidate.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Continue the process until you&#8217;ve found someone you&#8217;re absolutely happy with. After all, when it comes to your health, nothing matters more than happiness.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">A doctor&#8217;s review can help in the evaluation process when searching for that perfect physician. For more information, visit http://www.doctorreviewsonline.com.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_Stratton</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Find a Doctor &#8211; How to Choose a Local Doctor</title>
		<link>http://www.vantagemeds.com/132/find-a-doctor-how-to-choose-a-local-doctor</link>
		<comments>http://www.vantagemeds.com/132/find-a-doctor-how-to-choose-a-local-doctor#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 03 Aug 2010 16:47:03 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Vantage Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[doctor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[find a doctor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hospital]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[medical]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[physician]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[physicians]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.vantagemeds.com/?p=132</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[No matter who you are, there will come a day when the aid of a physician will be required. Whether for general checkups, injuries, illnesses, or even for someone else, the task of finding a local doctor is one which is inevitable. And while the process of locating a physician you can be happy with [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: justify;">No matter who you are, there will come a day when the aid of a physician will be required. Whether for general checkups, injuries, illnesses, or even for someone else, the task of finding a local doctor is one which is inevitable. And while the process of locating a physician you can be happy with can initially seem like a burden, there are a number of techniques to help you along the way. In this article, we will focus on these techniques, providing tips and ideas along the way.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Step 1 &#8211; No matter what you hear, the number one method of finding a physician is through word of mouth. In fact, it may even prove beneficial to choose someone whom has been referred to you by a friend or family member. Starting the process, knowing a patient will provide you with insight into the practice, and an idea of what to expect from the physician. Be sure to ask specific questions from the person making the recommendation to best determine whether the physician is worth looking into further.</p>
<p><span id="more-132"></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Step 2 &#8211; Even though it&#8217;s old fashioned at this point, pull out the old yellow pages and leaf through until you find the physician section. Additionally, you&#8217;ll want to be able to decide which type of physician you will be seeking, such as a pediatrician, cardiologist, gynecologist, chiropractor, etc.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Step 3 &#8211; Hop online and search for board-certified specialists in your area. Specify the city in which you live, state, and the words &#8220;certified doctor&#8221; into the entry line. While this search will initially provide you with a number of results, you can easily narrow it down by adding additional terms as you move along. Additionally, there are a number of quality directories available online, which provide reviews, ratings, and other pertinent information to help you make a decision.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Step 4 &#8211; Call up your local hospital and speak with them in order to obtain a list of licensed area physicians.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Step 5 &#8211; Head over to your state medical board and ask for a list of recommendations. These associations commonly provide people with a variety of resources to help in their search. They also have the ability to show you current records pertaining to complaint histories, and the specifics of the cases. You can even use this resource to check up on the recommendations you&#8217;ve gathered prior.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Step 6 &#8211; Once you have a solid list of candidates in front of you, pick out your top three choices and contact them to set up a meeting. Many of these practices will provide prospective patients with an initial consultation free of charge. Use this as an opportunity to gain a firsthand look at the practice and the physician themselves. Evaluate how you interact with each other, and make sure you feel comfortable.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Step 7 &#8211; After your meetings are through, sit down and go over all of the information you&#8217;ve obtained. Compare each candidate and choose one that best fits your ideal vision of what a physician should be to you.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">If you have recently moved to a new city, finding a good local doctor is important. For more information, visit http://www.doctorreviewsonline.com.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_Stratton</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Medical Tourism Hospitals &#8211; 5 Things to Look For</title>
		<link>http://www.vantagemeds.com/110/medical-tourism-hospitals-5-things-to-look-for</link>
		<comments>http://www.vantagemeds.com/110/medical-tourism-hospitals-5-things-to-look-for#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 04 Jun 2010 18:12:20 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Vantage Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[doctor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[doctors]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[healthcare]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hospital]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hospitals]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[medical]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[medical records]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[medical tourism]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[nurse]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[nurses]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[physician]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.vantagemeds.com/?p=110</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Health is one aspect of life where people should choose based on quality rather than on the price. Medical tourism is the new industry that appeals to those seeking excellent healthcare services billed at low prices. Indeed, many people in need of urgent medical care choose to go abroad because the service quality is not [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: justify;">Health is one aspect of life where people should choose based on quality rather than on the price. Medical tourism is the new industry that appeals to those seeking excellent healthcare services billed at low prices. Indeed, many people in need of urgent medical care choose to go abroad because the service quality is not compromised by the low prices of the procedures. There are medical tourism hospitals specifically made for foreigners. Here are five things you should look for in these hospitals.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">1. International Accreditation</p>
<p><span id="more-110"></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The Joint Commission International is a non-profit organization that sets the standards for the quality and safety of hospital services. Other certifying bodies are the International Organization for Standardization (ISO 9000) and the International Society for Quality in Health Care. Hospitals accredited by these organizations, as well as by their own national counterpart of these organizations, have gone through rigorous testing and are in strict compliance with the high standards of quality service and facilities.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">2. Qualified Medical Practitioners</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">International hospitals employ doctors who have passed their board exams, either in their home country or abroad. Many doctors in medical tourism destinations have earned their degree and were trained in prestigious medicine schools in the United States or Europe.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">3. No or Minimal Language Barrier Concerns</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Good communication between patient and healthcare provider is a huge factor in expediting the treatment and recovery process. Your hospital of choice should have hospital staff that understand and speak your language or, at the very least, should have translation services provided by an international patient department. And you also have to remember that your medical records and any remarks coming from your physician back home are written in English.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">4. Hospital Quality Indicators</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Examples of these are the mortality rate, nurse-to-patient ration, and Staph (Staphylococcus) infection rate. Some hospitals publish these pieces of information on their websites, while others don&#8217;t so you need to call them to learn more about their indicators. Take these figures and compare them with one of the internationally-accredited medical tourism hospitals.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">5. The Local Reputation</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">A good medical tourism facility nurses a good reputation as a healthcare provider with the locals who received medical care from it. If you have contacts in your choice of destination, ask them what people think of the hospital. They will most likely provide an accurate view of the facility, including those who have not received medical care from it.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Free Medical Tourism Guide</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">To find out more about medical tourism hospitals and which is right hospital for the medical treatment you are considering call Debson Medical at 1-877-900-3327 for a free, no-obligation consultation or visit the Debson website at: http://www.debsonmedicaltourism.com and download their popular free guide.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Debson Medical Tourism is a medical tourism facilitator specializing in the provision of medical health services, including pre- and post-operative care, care management, travel, and vacation planning.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Zoumanan_M._Debe</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<item>
		<title>Medical Care Expense &#8211; Understanding Your EOB (Explanation of Benefits)</title>
		<link>http://www.vantagemeds.com/75/medical-care-expense-understanding-your-eob-explanation-of-benefits</link>
		<comments>http://www.vantagemeds.com/75/medical-care-expense-understanding-your-eob-explanation-of-benefits#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 10 Mar 2010 19:39:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Vantage Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[benefits]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[clinic]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dentist]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[doctor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[healthcare]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hospital]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[insurance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[insurance company]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[medical]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[medical equipment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[physician]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.vantagemeds.com/?p=75</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Each EOB is specific to the provider (physician,lab) and the service they rendered. The format varies widely between insurance companies, but at a minimum an EOB should indicate the: provider, service date, actual billed amount, network discount, allowed amount, insurance portion, patient responsibility and deductible amount. I&#8217;ll discuss each of these terms. It is important [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: justify;">Each EOB is specific to the provider (physician,lab) and the service they rendered. The format varies widely between insurance companies, but at a minimum an EOB should indicate the: provider, service date, actual billed amount, network discount, allowed amount, insurance portion, patient responsibility and deductible amount. I&#8217;ll discuss each of these terms. It is important to remember that an EOB is NOT a bill. Usually, almost all EOBs state &#8220;THIS IS NOT A BILL&#8221; in big bold letters, to minimize confusion.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Every EOB you contains information about services you received from that specific provider during a particular visit. A provider is anyone who supplies healthcare and/or other medically related services and products. A provider may be a physician, dentist, clinic, hospital, pharmacy, lab, physical therapists or other health care professional. Looking at your EOB, you should see the name of the provider or facility that filed the claim for reimbursement listed. A service is a procedure or product rendered by a provider to a patient. A service could range from a basic physician visit to radiology services to surgical care or medical equipment. The date on which you received services from a provider is called the service date.</p>
<p><span id="more-75"></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Billed Amount</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">This represents the cost of the services you received and the amount the provider sent to your insurance company. It should be the largest figure on your EOB.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Network Discount</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">This is the amount by which a providers bill is adjusted as a result of a negotiated rate agreed upon between the provider and the insurer, and is not always listed on an EOB. This only applies to in-network providers.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Allowed Amount/Covered Amount</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The allowed amount is the amount of payment a provider has agreed to accept for the service, treatment or product under the terms of a negotiated contract with an insurance company. This applies only to in-network providers. The allowed amount may also be the maximum amount the insurance company will allow for a specific service.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Insurance Amount/Paid</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">As you may have already guessed, this is the amount that your insurance company pays on a claim.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Deductible Amount</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Your deductible indicates the portion of expenses that count toward your plan deductible and you are responsible to pay.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Patient Responsibility</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">This is the portion of the provider charges to be paid by the patient after the network discount, allowed amount, insurance portion and deductible amount have been taken into account. Basically, this is what you are expected to pay out-of-pocket for the services your received.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The Math</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The key to understanding comes down to identifying four numbers: the provider charges (amount billed from doctor, hospital, etc.), the discount (which is based on the negotiated rate of your individual plan coverage), what insurance paid and patient responsibility.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The amount the provider sent to your insurance company as their &#8220;charge&#8221; or &#8220;billed amount&#8221; should be the largest figure on the EOB. Next, find and subtract the &#8220;discount&#8221; to arrive at the allowed amount, which is the amount your insurance company and your provider agree is the fair amount to be paid. If you do not have a discount amount displayed, simply locate the allowed amount on your EOB.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Now look at the amount your insurance paid. It can be anywhere from $0 to the full allowed amount. Subtract what the insurer paid from the allowed amount. What&#8217;s left is the patient responsibility. To double check the math, add together the amount the insurance paid and the patient responsibility, it should equal the allowed amount, sometimes referred to as the negotiated rate.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Remember, the patient responsibility may NOT be the balance owed to your provider, depending on if the insurance company reflects your payments already to the provider (such as co-pays, pre-payments and any other payments you have submitted). If payments you have previously made are NOT reflected on the EOB, you will need to subtract your payments from the patient responsibility amount to figure out the balance owed to the provider.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">EXAMPLE:</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Billed Office visit $155.00</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Allowed Amount $ 93.03 (Network Discount $61.97)</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Plan Pays $83.73 (Insurance Paid)</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Patient Responsibility $ 9.30</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Visit http://MedicalBillConsultants.com for more information and learn how they can advocate in your behalf with you medical providers.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Rich Davis is a partner with Medical Bill Consultants, Tarzana, Ca. Medical Bill Consultants provides medical bill review service to consumers of medical service who question the high bills they receive. Medical Bill Consultants works on a flat fee rather then a high contingency providing money back guarantee. Visit their site http://DiscountMyMedicalBill.com for more information.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rich_Davis</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Hand Surgery &#8211; Know the Likely Complications in the Surgery</title>
		<link>http://www.vantagemeds.com/63/hand-surgery-know-the-likely-complications-in-the-surgery</link>
		<comments>http://www.vantagemeds.com/63/hand-surgery-know-the-likely-complications-in-the-surgery#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 04 Feb 2010 20:38:05 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Vantage Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[medical]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[physician]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[surgeons]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[surgery]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.vantagemeds.com/?p=63</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Hand surgery is a complex procedure which requires the expertise of a surgeon especially trained in treating the upper extremities. Hand surgeons are trained even more intensely than a regular orthopedic surgeon. An orthopedic surgeon specializes in treating the bones, ligaments, tendons and muscles of the skeletal system.
A hand specialist has the training of a [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: justify;">Hand surgery is a complex procedure which requires the expertise of a surgeon especially trained in treating the upper extremities. Hand surgeons are trained even more intensely than a regular orthopedic surgeon. An orthopedic surgeon specializes in treating the bones, ligaments, tendons and muscles of the skeletal system.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">A hand specialist has the training of a traditional orthopedic surgeon along with additional schooling in the hand, wrist and shoulder. Most surgeries are successful and offer the patient more flexible movement in their hand, wrist and upper extremities and the alleviation of pain. Some complications do occur, however, and here are some of the more common ones:</p>
<p><span id="more-63"></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">- Delayed healing due to inadequate blood circulation. Steps are taken to minimize this including excessive debridement, which is the removal of dead tissue, and careful attention to the vascular reattachment.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">- Edema or swelling can complicate healing, as well. Elevation and moving the area according to the physician&#8217;s instructions will help keep edema to a minimum.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">- Infection can occur at the wound site but the chance of this happening is minimized by preventive antibiotics given before and after the surgery. Gentle exercise, as instructed, will also keep an infection from taking hold.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">- Improper positioning of splints and dressings which are too tightly wound can cause problems with the post-op healing by excessive pressure or inadequate support.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">- An adverse reaction to anesthesia that is used during surgery is a risk in any surgical procedure.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">- Nerve damage by needle puncture can occur. If this happens, there would be resulting tingling and numbness in the area.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">- The use of tourniquets during surgery can result in damage to the radial nerve including paralysis. This is extremely rare.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">- Toxic shock syndrome is also a rare occurrence in surgery. This is a life threatening infection caused by bacteria.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">- Excessive bleeding during the operation is another complication. The surgeon will instruct the patient to curtail certain medications and herbal supplements which are known to cause heavy bleeding.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">- Phlebitis is another rare complication. Phlebitis is the medical name for blood clots in the veins.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Most hand surgeries are successful, but complications do occur. Choosing a reputable specialist and practicing self care before and after the procedure will greatly minimize their occurrence. Avoiding cigarette smoking, getting proper rest along with a healthy diet will go a long way in supporting the immune system. Following all post-operative instructions and exercises will aid in a successful outcome, as well.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">In Houston, hand surgery expert can help you get rid of many types of hand injuries such as fractures, carpal tunnel, damage to nerves etc. To know more, visit http://cyfairhandandwrist.com</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_Stratton</p>
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		<title>Medical Organizer &#8211; Protect Yourself in an Emergency</title>
		<link>http://www.vantagemeds.com/37/medical-organizer-protect-yourself-in-an-emergency</link>
		<comments>http://www.vantagemeds.com/37/medical-organizer-protect-yourself-in-an-emergency#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 15 Oct 2009 02:25:29 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Vantage Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[benefits]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[emergency room]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[health information]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[healthcare]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[medical]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[medical history]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[medical privacy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[medical records]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[physician]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[physicians]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.vantagemeds.com/?p=37</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
In an emergency situation, time is of the essence. Your medical care providers will need as much information as possible about your medical condition. Having a medical organizer can be a real lifesaver.
When you are not able to provide your health history in an emergency, a medical organizer can speak for you. Today, with the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="body" style="text-align: justify;">
<p>In an emergency situation, time is of the essence. Your medical care providers will need as much information as possible about your medical condition. Having a medical organizer can be a real lifesaver.</p>
<p>When you are not able to provide your health history in an emergency, a medical organizer can speak for you. Today, with the use of the internet, medical professionals can have instant access to your medical records.</p>
<p><span id="more-37"></span></p>
<p><strong>Your Online Personal Health Record</strong></p>
<p>In an ideal world, emergency room staff would like to have as much information about your health history as possible. In the past, this was virtually impossible unless you carried all of your medical records in your pocket.</p>
<p>Today, however, it is possible to provide emergency room medical personnel with all of your health information through the use of an online personal health record. Online access allows physicians to know your medical conditions, allergies, medication, family contact information and health care directives.</p>
<p><strong>Medical Privacy Concerns</strong></p>
<p>Protecting the privacy of our health information is a major issue in health care. This becomes a challenge when you rely on instant access of information via the internet.</p>
<p>The use of new encrypted technology now provides increased protection. A secure web-based system allows healthcare professionals access to your personal health record via your name and password.</p>
<p><strong>Minimize Delays in Treatment</strong></p>
<p>In a true emergency, seconds count. The use of a web-based electronic personal health record will provide emergency room staff with instant access to your vital medical history.</p>
<p>Good communication is an essential element in successful outcomes. If you are unable to speak for yourself, having a personal health record speak for you is the next best thing.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">About The Author</span></strong></p>
<p>Brent Aleshire</p></div>
<div id="sig" style="text-align: justify;">
<p>Discover additional benefits of a medical organizer by visiting <a href="http://www.medicalorganizer.wordpress.com/" target="_new">http://www.medicalorganizer.wordpress.com</a></p>
<p>To learn additional health care success strategies, I invite you to pick up a FREE copy of my eBook, How to Receive the Best Health Care for You and Your Family. It is available at <a href="http://www.thehealthcaresystem.com/ebook/" target="_new">http://www.thehealthcaresystem.com/ebook/</a></div>
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		<title>Medical Answering Service For a Smooth Clinic Management</title>
		<link>http://www.vantagemeds.com/35/medical-answering-service-for-a-smooth-clinic-management</link>
		<comments>http://www.vantagemeds.com/35/medical-answering-service-for-a-smooth-clinic-management#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2009 02:24:16 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Vantage Health]]></category>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.vantagemeds.com/?p=35</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
Before the carrier companies started various modes of voice mails, answering service was the one that tackled all the customers. In business like health care, easy accessibility of different clinical services is must. More and more health care centers and clinics now have medical answering service for a smooth clinic management. Medical answering service answers [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="body">
<p>Before the carrier companies started various modes of voice mails, answering service was the one that tackled all the customers. In business like health care, easy accessibility of different clinical services is must. More and more health care centers and clinics now have medical answering service for a smooth clinic management. Medical answering service answers the phones and takes messages from patients.</p>
<p>Medical answering machine installation cuts off the cost and is very reliable. The patients say that they never get busy tone and they never fail in delivering their messages. On the other hand, health care providers can be sure of getting all the messages and hence can remain up-to-date about their patients&#8217; scheduling. Live answering service can build a very good rapport with patients and hence can boost the medical business.</p>
<p><span id="more-35"></span></p>
<p>The best part of this system is it is 24/7 medical answering system that can help patients making appointments while most live agents find it difficult to do it for your clinic. By installing such system as a part of office automation, the health care providers and doctors can have uninterrupted after-hour answering service so that they do not miss any potential customers in the form of patients. The medical practice management becomes smoother and physician answering service can get patients a full satisfaction making them permanent clients.</p>
<p>One can also use a medical answering system as a virtual front desk receptionist answering the calls of patients and solving the queries they have. Also, as compared to a real receptionist, answering machine is much more dependable, efficient and above all, friendlier. Medical answering machine service is capable tackling multiple calls at the same time and hence, patients will never be kept on hold. Also, dispatching emergency calls without any delay and human errors is quite possible.</p>
<p>There are many benefits that come with automated answering mode such as -it has no excuses! It never gets tired and does not require sleep. This assures attending every potential customer, the patient round the clock giving appointments or solving the queries. Surveys and feedbacks of patients say that such automated answer machine is much better and efficient than a live agent medical assistant. Also, such system is maintenance free and does not require much attention once the program is set.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">About The Author</span></strong></p>
<p>Aubrey Andrew</p></div>
<div id="sig">
<p>Please read on further about Medical answering service providers and virtual medical assistant help here &#8211; <a href="http://www.247doctorappointment.com/" target="_new">http://www.247doctorappointment.com</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.answering4doctor.com/" target="_new">http://www.answering4doctor.com</a></div>
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		<title>Healthcare Costs Must Be Controlled by Patients</title>
		<link>http://www.vantagemeds.com/31/healthcare-costs-must-be-controlled-by-patients</link>
		<comments>http://www.vantagemeds.com/31/healthcare-costs-must-be-controlled-by-patients#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 12 Oct 2009 02:21:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.vantagemeds.com/?p=31</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
The debate on healthcare reform today revolves on how they could fix the waste in hospitals, doctor delivery, etc. But there is evidence to suggest that nothing is going to get fixed till the people who are requesting healthcare, the patients, have a direct stake in how much costs. The very best evidence of this I heard was from [...]]]></description>
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<p>The debate on healthcare reform today revolves on how they could fix the waste in hospitals, doctor delivery, etc. But there is evidence to suggest that nothing is going to get fixed till the people who are requesting healthcare, the patients, have a direct stake in how much costs. The very best evidence of this I heard was from Steve Forbes (wouldn&#8217;t you know). Now I do not agree with Steve Forbes all the time but this is simply an observation he made. There are at least 2 healthcare areas where people have to pay as they go and shop by price and value.  One of the areas is plastic surgery and one is Lasik. I did the research on Plastic Surgery and low and behold the average procedure had an inflation rate between 2001 and 2007 is around 2%. That&#8217;s right 2% during a period where standard healthcare costs are rising annually over 10%.  I&#8217;ll bet you will find the same low inflation rate in Lasik.  Why are these two areas cost controlled so well? The main difference from your family physician is that the patient has to pay directly for these two procedures out of their own pocket.  Because of this people vote every day with their dollars for better outcomes with less cost. And MOST of the outcomes of the 1000&#8217;s of procedures done every day are just what the patient wanted.</p>
<p>There is a second significant difference between those to areas of medicine and the mainstream illness areas, those two items are fully discretionary.  You don&#8217;t have to have them to survive.  It is for that reason that we have the desire to fund healthcare for everyone.  It is also for that reason that I am not advocating we should go to a fully personal pay healthcare system.  What I am advocating, from the evidence, is somehow creating an individual stake in the cost.  Patients need to CARE how much it costs when they select a Doctor, Hospital or procedure and make good value decisions on that basis.  Patients can be trusted to make good decisions most of the time. And the collective intelligence of our entire country will then be turned to fixing the problems because everyone needs healthcare and every time they need it they will be focused on getting the most efficient and effective care.</p>
<p><span id="more-31"></span></p>
<p>Here is the evidence:</p>
<p>From <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.ineed2know.org/plastic-surgery-costs.htm" target="_new">http://www.ineed2know.org/plastic-surgery-costs.htm</a> I got the average 2002 costs.</p>
<p>From <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.boardcertifiedplasticsurgeon.com/cosmetic_surgery_costs.html" target="_new">www.boardcertifiedplasticsurgeon.com/cosmetic_surgery_costs.html</a> for the 2007 costs.</p>
<p>I selected just a few of the very frequently used procedures, reported are the Doctors cost.  There are far more of all of the procedures done in 2007 than in 2002. One of the issues reported as a cause of the tremendous healthcare cost rise is much more demand stressing hospitals and doctors. Well, there&#8217;s lot&#8217;s more demand here and the average inflation of these procedures appears to be just about what the average national inflation rate has been.</p>
<p>2002 Eyelid Surgery was $2,455 average cost and in 2007 it was $3,134, an annual inflation of 4.6%.</p>
<p>2002 Breast Augmentation was $3,436 and in 2007 it was $3,816, a mere 1.8% inflation rate.</p>
<p>Botox in 2002, $422 in 2007, $501 an annual increase of 3.1%.</p>
<p>Breast Implant Removal, $2,084 vs. $2,380 for 2.4%.</p>
<p>Finally a Face Lift actually showed a negative 1% inflation, 2007 cost was more than 6% less than 2002.</p>
<p>Again I&#8217;m not saying that we should completely go to a no insurance pay as you go but I am saying that if we all had a stake in the cost of our healthcare we would vote EVERY DAY for better outcomes and less money and low and behold we would get it.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">About The Author</span></strong></div>
<div id="sig" style="text-align: justify;">
<p>Bill Pennock<br />
Squaretree I.T. Projects<br />
<a href="http://www.squaretree.com/" target="_new">http://www.squaretree.com</a></div>
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		<title>Learn How Health Savings Accounts Could Be the Future of Healthcare</title>
		<link>http://www.vantagemeds.com/27/learn-how-health-savings-accounts-could-be-the-future-of-healthcare</link>
		<comments>http://www.vantagemeds.com/27/learn-how-health-savings-accounts-could-be-the-future-of-healthcare#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 10 Oct 2009 02:17:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Vantage Health]]></category>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.vantagemeds.com/?p=27</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
The most successful and popular healthcare reform that has already taken place started in 2004 &#8211; Health Savings Accounts.  This is a special account kind of like an IRA, where anyone with a qualifying high-deductible health insurance plan can put aside pre-tax money to cover future medical expenses.
Health Savings Accounts encourage people to save for [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="body" style="text-align: justify;">
<p>The most successful and popular healthcare reform that has already taken place started in 2004 &#8211; Health Savings Accounts.  This is a special account kind of like an IRA, where anyone with a qualifying high-deductible health insurance plan can put aside pre-tax money to cover future medical expenses.</p>
<p>Health Savings Accounts encourage people to save for their future, and when they do need to tap into the money to pay for medical expenses they have much greater incentive to be careful how they spend that money.  It is this consumerism that facilitates price among providers, which helps keeps costs down for everyone.</p>
<p><span id="more-27"></span></p>
<p>HSA plans have become very popular, in part because they are much less expensive than conventional copay plans.  So many people are concerned that these high-deductible plans and Health Savings Accounts will not be available after healthcare reform passes.</p>
<p>Since there is no final bill yet at this time, we can only speculate what will happen.  But it does look like yes, Health Savings Accounts and high deductible health insurance plans will probably still be available under Obamacare.</p>
<p>The first clue that these plans will still be available is the minimum benefit levels defined in the Baucus proposal in the Senate.  The bronze benefit package would allow an out-of-pocket limit up to the HSA current law limit ($5950 for individuals and $11,900 for families in 2010).</p>
<p>The bill also makes some changes to how distributions from Health Savings Accounts are handled.  Distributions from a Health Savings Account that are not used to cover medical expenses will be subject to a 20 percent additional tax penalty, instead of 10 percent as it now stands.  Not that big of an issue if you use your Health Savings Account as it is intended.</p>
<p>So we can see they seem to be thinking about Health Savings Accounts.  But here&#8217;s the possible catch.  All qualified health insurance plans &#8220;would be required to provide primary care and first dollar coverage for physician services and prescription drugs.&#8221;</p>
<p>Under current law, an HSA-qualified health insurance plan cannot offer first dollar coverage, other than for certain preventive benefits.  So currently a plan cannot comply with the requirements in the Senate bill, and also be HSA-qualified.</p>
<p>Both the House and Senate bills give authority to work out this issue to an appointed official.  In the House it is the &#8220;Health Choices Commissioner.&#8221;  The Senate Finance Committee (Baucus) proposal gives authority to the secretary of Health and Human Services.</p>
<p>So while there is no certainty at this point, we are expectant that not only will Health Savings Accounts be part of the package if healthcare reform is passed, but will become more popular than ever due to the much lower premiums, the tax benefits, and the long-term saving opportunities.</p>
<p>Regardless of how healthcare reform works out, remember that most of new laws would not actually go into effect until 2013.  So it still makes sense to get and fund an HSA plan right now.  Anyone who has a qualified HSA health insurance plan in place by December 1st can make a 2009 contribution, and cut their April 15th tax bill by up to $1900 or more.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>About The Author</strong></span></div>
<div id="sig" style="text-align: justify;">
<p>By Wiley Long &#8211; President, HSA for America (<a href="http://www.health--savings--accounts.com/" target="_new">http://www.health&#8211;savings&#8211;accounts.com</a>) &#8211; The nation&#8217;s leading independent health insurance firm specializing in <a href="http://www.health--savings--accounts.com/hsa-plans.htm" target="_new">HSA Plans</a> that works with a Health Savings Account.</div>
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		<title>Health Insurance Buyer&#8217;s Guide</title>
		<link>http://www.vantagemeds.com/23/health-insurance-buyers-guide</link>
		<comments>http://www.vantagemeds.com/23/health-insurance-buyers-guide#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 08 Oct 2009 02:14:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.vantagemeds.com/?p=23</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
Buying Shopping for health insurance can leave many people confused. Knowing which insurance company to choose or which insurance plan is the best may seem daunting impossible. But once you know the basics of health insurance, choosing the right health insurance plan is simple easy.
This article will provide some of the most basic and helpful [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="body" style="text-align: justify;">
<p>Buying Shopping for health insurance can leave many people confused. Knowing which insurance company to choose or which insurance plan is the best may seem daunting impossible. But once you know the basics of health insurance, choosing the right health insurance plan is simple easy.</p>
<p>This article will provide some of the most basic and helpful tools and explanations for health insurance shoppers. First, it is important to learn about helps to understand the different types of health insurance plans and their benefits and drawbacks. Plans differ in the amount you pay out-of-pocket, which doctors you can visit, and how the your insurance bills are paid. Besides just helping you choose the most efficient and cost-effective plan, we&#8217;ll teach you about another way you can save on health insurance: a Health Savings Account. Additionally, it is important to learn about dental insurance as well. Many health insurance plans do not include dental insurance under their benefits, so we&#8217;ll go over how to shop for and obtain separate dental coverage. Then it is important to learn about ways you can save on health insurance. There are several ways you can save including Health Savings Accounts and Discount Cards. LastlyAnd finally, don&#8217;t forget to compare plans before you make your decisionwe&#8217;ll explain why it&#8217;s so important to put your new knowledge to good use by comparing health insurance plans.</p>
<p><span id="more-23"></span></p>
<p><strong>Types of Health Insurance Plans</strong></p>
<p><strong>Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) Plans </strong></p>
<p>Generally, HMOs have low or even no deductible and the co-payments will be relatively comparatively low as well. You pay a monthly premium that gives you access to coverage for doctor appointments, hospital stays, emergency care, tests, x-rays and therapy. You will have to choose a primary care physician (PCP) within your insurance provider&#8217;s network of physicians, and in order to see a specialist you need to receive a referral from your PCP. Under an HMO plan, only visits to doctors and hospitals with the insurance company&#8217;s network of providers are covered; you&#8217;ll have to pay for visits if you go to an out-of-network doctors or hospitals your insurance will not cover the costs.</p>
<p><strong>Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) </strong></p>
<p>Plans Under a PPO plan, you will use the insurance company&#8217;s network of doctors and hospitals for any services or supplies you need. These healthcare providers have been contracted by the insurance company to provide services at a discounted rate. Generally, you will be able to choose doctors and specialists within this network without having to choose a primary care physician or get a referral. Before the insurance company will start paying for your medical bills you will usually need to pay an annual deductible. Also, you may have a co-payment for some services or be required to cover a percentage of the total medical bill.</p>
<p><strong>Point of Service (POS) Plans </strong></p>
<p>A POS plan is a combination of the features offered by HMO and PPO plans. You are required to choose a primary care physician, whose services are not usually subject to a deductible, but your PCP can refer you to out-of-network specialists whose services will be partially covered by your insurance company. Additionally, POS plans usually offer coverage for preventive healthcare, which includes regular checkups. Your PCP will be able to give you referrals for any specialists. If these specialists are out-of-network you will need to pay out-of-pocket and then apply for reimbursement from the insurance company. With a POS plan you will benefit from some of the savings of an HMO and will have greater flexibility in choosing healthcare providers, similar to PPO.</p>
<p><strong>Dental Insurance </strong></p>
<p>It is important to get a dental insurance plan along with your health insurance plan. In order to keep your teeth and gums health you need regular visits to the dentist. Without dental insurance, the cost of dentist appointments will be much higher making it difficult to keep up with the payments. Dental insurance is similar to health insurance in that each month you pay a premium, which entitles you to certain dental benefits. Benefits include checkups, cleanings, x-rays, and other dental services. There are plans that may cover dental implants, oral surgery and orthodontia, but they will be more expensive. Like health insurance, plans are categorized into indemnity and managed-care plans. If you choose an indemnity plan you will have a broader choice of dental care providers to choose from. You won&#8217;t have to choose one primary dentist and generally, you won&#8217;t need to acquire referrals. In order for the insurance company to cover your dental expenses you will need to send them a claim before they reimburse you for covered services. As a result, you will have to pay more out-of-pocket with an indemnity plan, but you will have more flexibility in choosing which dentists you visit. On the other hand, managed-care plans will provide you with a dental provider network and you will need to visit dentists within this network in order to get coverage for these services. With a dental care network, the insurance company has arranged pre-negotiated rates that you will receive when you visit these dentists. With a managed-care plan, the dentists will submit the claim for you, lowering your out-of-pocket expenses.</p>
<p><strong>Save on Health Insurance </strong></p>
<p><strong>Health Savings Account </strong></p>
<p>Health Savings Accounts (HSA) are tax-free savings accounts designed to help consumers pay for healthcare services while limiting premium expenses for unwanted benefits. The plans have lower premiums and higher deductibles than other insurance plans because they offer fewer benefits and require you to use the money in your HSA to pay for certain qualified medical services. However, if you don&#8217;t need to visit the doctor frequently and don&#8217;t anticipate requiring regular medical attention, HSA plans are a cost-effective method of insuring against the worst without paying for coverage you won&#8217;t use. In order to open an HSA, you&#8217;ll need to have an HSA-compatible health insurance plan. You may only use the funds in your HSA to pay for qualified medical expenses. Usually, your HSA plan will have a deductible that, once met, requires your insurance company to pay for any additional qualified medical expenses for the rest of the year.</p>
<p><strong>Dental Insurance </strong></p>
<p>Health insurance typically does not cover dental services, but in order to keep your teeth and gums healthy, you need regular visits to the dentist. Without dental insurance, regular dentist appointments can prohibitively expensive. Make sure your mouth is covered by shopping for both health and dental insurance. Dental insurance is similar to health insurance in that each month you pay a premium, which entitles you to certain dental benefits. Benefits include checkups, cleanings, x-rays, and other dental services. There are plans that may cover dental implants, oral surgery and orthodontia, but they will be more expensive. Like health insurance, plans are categorized into indemnity and managed-care plans. If you choose an indemnity plan you will have a broader choice of dental care providers to choose from. You won&#8217;t have to choose one primary dentist and generally, you won&#8217;t need to acquire referrals for special services. In order for the insurance company to cover your dental expenses you will need to send them a claim for reimbursement. You&#8217;ll end up paying more out-of-pocket with an indemnity plan, but you will have more flexibility in choosing which dentists you visit. By contrast, managed-care plans limit you to the doctors and services within a dental services network, and you will need to visit doctors within this network in order to get coverage for their services. Within the dental care network, your insurance company has arranged pre-negotiated rates that you will receive when you visit dentists in the network. Your dentist will submit your insurance claim for you, keeping your out-of-pocket expenses lower than with an indemnity plan.</p>
<p><strong>Compare the Plans </strong></p>
<p>Comparing insurance plans is an important step in buying health insurance. It will save you money in the long run if you take the time to compare premium prices, out-of-pocket costs, plan benefits, the network of physicians available with different plans, and the quality of insurance providers. If you have a favorite physician, make sure your health insurance covers visits to him or her. If you don&#8217;t need to see the doctor very often, don&#8217;t pay a high premium for low office visit copayments. Health insurance plans are designed to address specific healthcare needs, and you&#8217;ll save money and get the most effective coverage by comparing plans to find the health insurance plan that best fits your budget and lifestyle.</p>
<p>About The Author</p>
<p>Julie Madison</p></div>
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<p>For more information on Health Insurance Plans and Dental plans, or to get advice on whether this type of health insurance plan is right for you, visit <a href="http://www.enetinsurance.com/" target="_new">http://www.enetinsurance.com</a> and talk to one of our licensed health insurance agents.</div>
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