Medical Billing Employees Can Destroy Your Practice

Medical Insurance
A weak medical billing staff can undermine the best technology and billing processes. Medical Billing success requires great medical billing employees. Developing a strong medical billing team is a difficult, but worthwhile effort. Here is how to make it happen:
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1) Installing a well-defined and predictable method for recruiting, identifying, hiring and keeping great medical bils:

Medical billing is a critical function and the process for finding and selecting medical billing employees must reflect the critical of the job. You would not hire an accountant or an attorney based upon a few questions about what they liked or did not like about previous jobs, you should not hire medical bil with any less rigorous a process. Install multiple interviews and multiple testing levels. Test for billing knowledge, work style and work effort. Check references and check criminal history.

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3) Invest heavily in analytical efforts: Continuous improvement of the billing process and the billing team requires significant and on-going analytical efforts. By measuring key factors about both payers and the billing process, a billing group can speed up collections, lower denials and lower the cost of the billing process.
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4) Compensate your medical billing specialists based upon performance, not effort: Your billing department should succeed when the practice succeeds. Many good billing systems have been undermined by a compensation approach that does not give the medical billing team the proper motivation to doggedly and efficiently pursue the practice's claims. Remember to insure the compensation system falls with the OIG's guidelines.

These steps provide a foundation for growing a medical billing team that will be second to none.

Comparing Managed Care Health Plans

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Health insurance plans have been forced to take action to contain costs of quality health care delivery as health care costs have skyrocketed. Health insurance premiums, deductibles and co-pays have steadily increased, and health insurance companies have implemented certain strategies for reducing health care costs. "Managed care" describes a group of stratgies aimed at reducing the costs of health care for health insurance companies.

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There are two basic types of managed care plans; health maintenance organizations, or HMOs, and preferred provider organizations, or PPOs. So which health plan is best? How do you choose what type of health insurance best suits the health care needs of you and your family?

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Both HMOs and PPOs contain costs by contracting with health providers for reduced rate on health care services for its' members, often as much as 60%. One important difference between HMOs and PPOs is that PPOs often will cover the costs of care when the provider is out of their network, but usually at a reduced rate. On the other hand, most HMOs offer no coverage for health care services for out-of-network providers.

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Both HMO and PPOs also control health care costs by use of a gateway, or primary care provider (PCP). Health insurance plan members are assigned (or select) a primary care practitioner (physician, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner). usually a family practitioner or internal medicine doctor for adult members or a pediatrician or family care practitioner for childern. The primary care provider is responsible for coordianting health delivery for plan members. Care by specialist physicians require referral from the primary care provider. This cost containment strategy is intended to avoid duplication of services (for example, the cardiologist ordering tests that have already been done by the PCP, or a sprained ankle being referred to an orthopedic) and avoid unnecessary specialist referrals, tests and/or procedures.

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As health care costs continue to rise, many indemnity health insurance plans, or "fee for service" plans are being forced to adopt some managed care strategies in order to provide quality health care and keep health insurance premiums affordable. And as long as health care costs continue to rise, the distinctions among PPO, HMO, FFS and other health insurance plans will become blurred. Rest assured, however, that managed health care is here to stay.

How to get life assurance for less

Life insurance is about as simple as insurance gets. But there are still ways to get better value when you buy and save money on premiums. Here's how:

A range of insurance policies will pay some kind of benefit if your health suffers or you are unable to work. You can read about the different types here.
Life insurance is the cover that pays a specified sum if you die. Unlike other health related insurances, there are no criteria that need to be met when the insurer decides if you can claim: you are either dead or you're not.
That means that the policies on offer are, broadly speaking, the same and that buyers can hunt for the cheapest policy without having to compromise on the standard of cover. However, there are some important points to remember.
You can buy three types of life insurance - level term assurance, decreasing term assurance and whole-of-life insurance.
Level term assurance is taken out for a specified period of time - known as the term. The term is set according to the length of time the customer wants to be covered. They may base this on the period they expect their family to be financially dependent on them, or the term of their mortgage. The lump sum that level term assurance pays out remains the same throughout the term.
For decreasing term assurance the sum the insurance pays will fall over time. This is so that it can be bought in connection with a repayment mortgage where the amount the individual wants to cover gradually reduces in line with the debt. Because of this, decreasing term assurance is usually cheaper than level term assurance.
Whole-of-life insurance pays a guaranteed amount when you die and there is no specified term. However, the premiums for this type of insurance can change. A proportion of the premium you pay is invested and its growth helps keep the premiums low.
However, there have been reports of sharp increases in whole-of-life premiums.
These polices are often used as part of inheritance tax planning and you should consult a financial adviser before buying one.

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A Health insurance policy http://medicalinsurance-ahmad.blogspot.com/

Health insurance policy is a contract between an insurance company and an individual.Health insurance contract can be renewable annually or monthly. Health insurance have two type and amount of health care costs that will be covered by the health plan are specified in advance, in the member contract or Evidence of Coverage booklet.

Individual policy-holder's payment obligations may take several forms 7 :
a) Premium: The amount the policy-holder pays to the health plan each month to purchase health coverage.
b) Deductible: The amount that the policy-holder must pay out-of-pocket before the health plan pays its share. For example, a policy-holder might have to pay a $500 deductible per year, before any of their health care is covered by the health plan. It may take several doctor's visits or prescription refills before the policy-holder reaches the deductible and the health plan starts to pay for care.

c) Copayment: The amount that the policy-holder must pay out of pocket before the health plan pays for a particular visit or service. For example, a policy-holder might pay a $45 copayment for a doctor's visit, or to obtain a prescription. A copayment must be paid each time a particular service is obtained. Instead of paying a fixed amount up front (a copayment), the policy-holder must pay a percentage of the total cost. For example, the member might have to pay 20% of the cost of a surgery, while the health plan pays the other 80%. Because there is no upper limit on coinsurance, the policy-holder can end up owing very little, or a significant amount, depending on the actual costs of the services they obtain.

d) Exclusions: Not all services are covered. The policy-holder is generally expected to pay the full cost of non-covered services out of their own pocket.

e) Coverage limits: Some health plans only pay for health care up to a certain dollar amount. The policy-holder may be expected to pay any charges in excess of the health plan's maximum payment for a specific service. In addition, some plans have annual or lifetime coverage maximums. In these cases, the health plan will stop payment when they reach the benefit maximum, and the policy-holder must pay all remaining costs.

f) Out-of-pocket maximums: Similar to coverage limits, except that in this case, the member's payment obligation ends when they reach the out-of-pocket maximum, and the health plan pays all further covered costs. Out-of-pocket maximums can be limited to a specific benefit category (such as prescription drugs) or can apply to all coverage provided during a specific benefit year. g) Capitation: An amount paid by an insurer to a health care provider, for which the provider agrees to treat all members of the insurer. h0 In-Network Provider: A health care provider on a list of providers preselected by the insurer. The insurer will offer discounted coinsurance or copayments, or additional benefits, to a plan member to see an in-network provider. Generally, providers in network are providers who have a contract with the insurer to accept rates further discounted from the "usual and customary" charges the insurer pays to out-of-network providers.

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Healthy Change From the Inside Out Provided by Ensure http://medicalinsurance-ahmad.blogspot.com/

When shopping for healthy food these days, we're encouraged to look for calorie content, protein, fat sources, essential vitamins and minerals, and certain kinds of bacteria. Believe it or not, we should look for foods with bacteria and other ingredients to support our digestive health. Maintaining a balanced bacterial environment in your digestive system is an important part of keeping your whole body healthy.
Your Delicate Digestive Balance
Your digestive tract is responsible for about 70 percent of your body's immune system, and your digestive system is the home to more than 3 pounds of necessary bacteria. This bacterial environment, often called the digestive system microflora, depends on a delicate balance of potentially harmful bacteria and potentially helpful bacteria to maintain good health in the digestive system. When this balance is thrown off, from disease or certain medications, you may experience an overgrowth of harmful bacteria that can make you very uncomfortable and sick.
Proactive Ingredients for Healthy Bacteria
To help maintain a healthy balance of microflora, certain foods contain ingredients called prebiotics. Prebiotics are food ingredients that selectively promote the growth or multiplication of good bacteria in the colon, such as bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. One such prebiotic food, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), is found naturally in certain foods, such as bananas, onions, garlic, and artichokes. This prebiotic also can be produced using certain enzymes to convert sugar from sugar cane into short-chain FOS (scFOS), a fast-acting, readily available prebiotic. Because of its short-chain length, scFOS is easily used by helpful bacteria.
Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, work together with prebiotics to maintain a healthful balance of colonic microflora. Lactobacilli and bifidobacteria are two examples of probiotics that are found in yogurts with "live and active cultures."
Prebiotics and probiotics can support the body's natural defense against bacteria, viruses, and other potentially harmful substances by maintaining a balanced digestive microflora. The scFOS produced by the microflora can help build physical protection from harmful bacteria, providing energy for cells lining the intestinal tract.
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12 quick tips for a longer, healthier life http://medicalinsurance-ahmad.blogspot.com/

1. Tea off in the morningHot tea can slash your risk of kidney cancer by 15 percent, according to a review in the International Journal of Cancer. Try pu-erh tea, which is better than green or black tea at preventing DNA damage.
2. Sleep smarterToo much sleep, or not enough of it, can kill you. A British study found that getting more than 9 hours of sack time a night, or less than 6, doubles your risk of an early death from any cause. Aim for 7 to 8 hours a night.
3. Pop in your lenses post-showerSoaping up while wearing your contacts can expose your eyes to infection-causing waterborne microbes, say University of Illinois at Chicago researchers.
4. Drink wine, stay leanPolyphenols, the compounds found in red wine, help your body block fat absorption, an Israeli study found. Red-wine marinades work, too.
5. Lose the lint Taking 2 seconds to empty the lint trap in your clothes dryer can prevent you from being one of the 315 dryer-fire victims each year in the United States.
6. Check your neckAn American Journal of Medicine study found that a mildly underactive thyroid can boost your heart-disease risk by 65 percent. A quick blood test can assess your level of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).
7. Lean back Parking your torso at a 90-degree angle strains your spine, say Scottish and Canadian researchers. Instead, give your chair the La-Z-Boy treatment and recline the seat back slightly. The ideal angle is 45 degrees off vertical.
8. Scent your air safely Some air fresheners contain phthalates, compounds that may disrupt hormone processes, Natural Resources Defense Council testing reveals. Stick with Febreze Air Effects and Renuzit Subtle Effects.
9. Boost your defenses An Archives of Internal Medicine review reports that 400 IU of vitamin D a day reduces your risk of an early death by 7 percent. Try Carlson's vitamin D (carlsonlabs.com).
10. Skip the sprayUsing household spray cleaners just once a week increases your risk of an asthma attack by 76 percent, say Spanish researchers. Use wipes instead.
11. Steam your broccoliItalian researchers recently discovered that steaming broccoli increases its concentration of glucosinolates (compounds found to fight cancer) by 30 percent. Boiling actually lowers the levels.
12. Stretch it out Genes in your body linked to heart disease, diabetes, and obesity can be "turned on" if you sit for hours on end, reports a study in Diabetes. Hit the "off" button by taking hourly laps during TV, book, and Web sessions.
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Healthy Breakfast Ideas http://medicalinsurance-ahmad.blogspot.com/

A lot of studies and research has shown that kids who eat breakfast perform better in school and
have a healthier diet. Eating breakfast will help promote the proper growth and maximize school
performance as well.

Breakfast is often times a victim of the morning time crunch. Even though you may be tempted to
skip breakfast, you can simplify your morning routine by following these 8 tips:

1. Finish homework and pack school bags at night.
2. Decide on what your children will wear to school before you go to bed and locate lost shoes for the following day.
3. In the morning, get up 15 minutes earlier.
4. Give up computer games and morning television.
5. Have healthy foods on hand.You should also shop for breakfast foods with your kids
and take into account their personal preferences.
6. Set the cereal out the night before. For younger children, fill a zippered plastic bag with her portion, then add the milk in the morning.
7. Allow your children to use the microwave often, as most breakfast foods can be prepared in under 5 minutes.
8. Allow your kids to eat in the car or on the way to school.

There are several foods that you can eat for breakfast, even leftovers from supper if they are sufficient. You can eat bagels, pizza with fruit juice, pretzels, or the normal bacon and
eggs that breakfast is known for. Most foods are a snap to prepare, and won't take you but a
few minutes.

The next time you are in a hurry in the morning,remember that you are probably about to skip the
most important meal of the day. If you follow the tips above, you'll find that you have plenty of
time for breakfast.

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Facts About Nutrition Labels http://medicalinsurance-ahmad.blogspot.com/

The nutrition label located on each and every food item,
will tell you all the information about that food. For
some however, this information isn't exactly that reader
friendly. Fear not, as it's actually easier than you
think.

Serving Size
This size is based on the amount people eat. Similar
food items will have similar serving sizes, thus making
it easier to compare 2 foods of the same category.

% Daily Value
This indicates how food will fit in a 2,000 calorie
diet. This will help you to understand if the food
has a lot, or just a little of the important nutrients.

The middle section
The nutrients you'll find listed in the middle section
are the ones that are most important to your health.
This information can help you to calculate your daily
limit of fat, fiber, sodium, and other nutrients.

Vitamins & minerals
The percent daily value found here is the exact same
as the U.S. Recommended Daily Allowance for vitamins
and minerals.

Now that you know what the nutrition label actually
means, it'll be a lot easy to eat healthy. Eating
healthy is a great thing - especially when you use the
nutrition label to assist you with your food choices.

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Benefits of resistance training, http://medicalinsurance-ahmad.blogspot.com

Do you want to have a stronger and more beautiful body? Then the best thing to do is get on your feet and start doing the resistance training.

What Is Resistance Training?

Resistance training involves activities that use weights, machines and even body weight to work out the muscles properly. It is also known as strength training or weight training. This can be very helpful in achieving a healthier body.

This kind of training is usually associated with athletes who have to build up their bodies. Most people would think that when resistance training is done, the body will grow bigger. Actually it will not. Resistance training is simply about increasing the strength of the body, not its size.

Actually, this can be practiced by anyone. It basically builds and tones the muscle to give the body a better look. This training program is even very much advisable to the elders. The usual training programs undergone by the elders are standing free-weights resistance or the moderate-intensity seated machine training.

How Does Resistance Training Work?

A resistance training program will include the use of various exercise equipment and machines like the bench press, dumbbell or barbell. When the equipment is used, the muscles of the body will be pitted against the weight. The cells of the body will then adapt to the extra weight. This will then result to hypertrophy or the enlarging and increasing of the nerve cells to help in the muscle contraction.

Before doing any resistance training, it will be best to consult first with the doctor. This goes especially for people who have medical conditions or are overweight. This kind of training is not something that you can explore on your own. You have to know the proper equipment for the needs of your body. The body must also be conditioned first before taking in the weights.

Resistance training can also be done without resorting to the equipment. Doing push-ups is one good example. You can do it just about anywhere where there is enough space for you to move. This time it is your own body weight that will be pitted against the muscles. So those who are a bit constrained in the budget can still do resistance trainings.

What Are the Benefits of Resistance Training?

1. Increase Bone Mineral Density
Bones are constantly remodeling, meaning the tissues break down at the same time they build up. The peak of remodeling takes place during puberty. However, as a person ages, there may be problems with the bone mineral density as the remodeling may not be as active anymore. This is especially a problem to post-menopausal women.

Bone mineral density is usually supported by the hormones. To address the problem of not having the hormones to maintain the bone mineral density, physical activity is the next best option. Resistance training is one physical activity that can address this.

2. Increase Strength
Strong bones and strong muscles will be developed as you undergo the resistance training program.

3. Increase the Range of Activities
When your body is strong enough to carry some considerable weight, then definitely you will also be capable of doing more strenuous activities. You are less likely to be lazy and you can live a more active lifestyle.

4. Reduce the Body Fat
Pitting the weights on your muscle will definitely give it the body the exercise it needs and get rid of the undesirable fats. Thus expect the tone of the body to improve. Even more, expect the body to look better, to be leaner.

5. Improve State of the Elders
For the elderly, undergoing a resistance training program will help improve their health and decrease the risks brought about by the age. They can be more independent, without needing to rely on other people for doing simple things. Being able to do so will also decrease the risk of injuries in the elders

6. Improve Heart Condition
Regularly doing resistance training can result to a lowered heart rate and lowered blood pressure, especially after exercise. The risk of heart diseases is reduced to a considerable extent.

This kind of training however must be properly done. It requires commitment and consistency. It will have to be done in a regular basis, following a schedule that the doctor or the physical trainer would recommend. If done incorrectly, the benefits of the program may not be enjoyed and it can even result the injury.

The key here is to simply take your time. Do things one step at a time correctly. As your body condition improves, then move on to more challenging tasks. The strength of the body and its overall look are at stake in the resistance training. So you better be sure to do it properly.
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Benefits of Boxing Training for Fitness ,http://medicalinsurance-ahmad.blogspot.com/

You may improve your health and have a physically fit body by getting into boxing training fitness programs. This is the best way for you to have a stronger body and gain confidence. Boxing workouts can help you to be at your best fighting form as well.

Many people see positive results from boxing trainings. You may build stronger and more defined arms and legs. These programs and classes also help you to gain a sense of inner strength and emotional balance.

Boxing training classes got across to the mainstream of physical fitness training a few years back. They have seen the benefits on the cardiovascular and toning of the muscles by these boxing training workouts. Tae bo work out videos also popularized these boxing and kickboxing exercises.

Cardio boxing training classes and the innovative variations of the sparring jabs, power punches, defense, and fitness has all blends of aerobics exercises. You will learn the proper execution of the punch and kick combinations for a more intensive workout that can help you become stronger and more confident.

The combinations you perform on the blocks, jabs, and kicks are executed to an imagined opponent. You may see classes where participants throw punches and kicks on the air. You will also find training camps that have quality equipment such as punching bags and you may also have the option of getting a partner that has padded hands.

You may also enjoy more benefits aside from the physical aspects of boxing trainings. Cardio kick boxing workouts allow you to burn out 350 to 500 calories in just an hour. It also helps maintaining the heart rate at 75 percent to 85 percent regular beat. This has been proven to be good and is the recommended range if you are exercising or into training.

Moreover, these boxing training classes improve your speed, resistance, and strength. Flexibility and the reflexes of the muscles are also enhanced. Repetitive motion on arms by sparring and jogging while you punch helps your arms and legs gain strength and power.

These workouts also enable your joint movements to build very efficient fitness results.
These movements require you to develop balance and coordination that enables your body to be stable and maintain a good form.

These physical benefits you gain from boxing and kickboxing are just few of the many benefits that they can provide. You will be able to learn more about defense mechanism skills, which you may use in case of unwanted instances. You will also feel the satisfaction when you punch or kick. Relaxation and self-motivation is also developed.

You will feel a sigh of relief and feel that you are released from stressed. It also helps you to get rid of that anger that is inside of you. Once these things are releases, you may feel lightness into your body and peace of mind as well.

Many aerobic and fitness experts recommend boxing training lessons for beginners. It allows you to workout on your desired pace and body condition. Boxing classes let you to push yourself to the limit as long as you are safe and well conditioned.

Positive results await you with boxing training. You will enjoy a physically fit body and will keep you in better shape. You have the option working out and exercising at your preferred level and skill. Enjoy the fun of these boxing training programs.


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The Wondrous Benefits of Soy Protein

Soy protein is emerging as one of the great alternative protein sources for human consumption. Health experts are all excited about how soy protein can change the face of nutrition. What’s all the rage? Here are some great reasons to get with soy protein.

Soy Protein is Plant Protein
Soy beans contain complete protein and have one of the best protein digestibilities among all protein sources. Soy beans also contain little or no fat and have virtually no cholesterol. Lactose intolerant ones will be pleased to know that soy beans contain no lactose.

Being a plant protein, soy is free from steroids and antibiotics animal protein contains. It is also free from the parasites that contaminate some of these products. They also contain none of the diseases one can contract from mean sources such as Mad Cow Disease, and Foot and Mouth Disease.

Vegetarians love this bean as it provides a comparable – if not better – source of protein as compared to its animal counterpart. It provides a protein that is better and easier to digest and is comparable to most protein supplements.

Soy Beans are Very Versatile
Soy beans are very versatile. Various cuisines, especially Asian ones recognize the value of the humble soy bean. A variety of naturally yummy delicacies are all soy based: tofu, soy pudding, Soya milk, and meat substitutes – not to mention condiments such as soy sauce, and hoi sin sauce.

To counter the problem of world hunger, the growing of soybeans has been suggested. Not only are soybeans easy to grow and harvest, they will grow pretty much anywhere and produces much in a little time. There have been farmers reported to have replaced their entire crop line with soy bean plants. These hardy little plants produce much per harvest, and, as said earlier, can grow in even the most trying terrain.

The Great Substitute
Soy is low in fat and can be used to substitute most protein sources. When cooking, you may use soy substitutes instead of flour for a low fat alternative. This makes it a great protein source for those that are looking to lose weight without compromising their protein requirements.

Bodybuilders are considering how this can make their jobs a lot easier. Without the fat and with all the protein goodness – easily digestible at that – bodybuilding has just received a great blessing of a food.

Although these bodybuilders are currently debating how soy can be a help to bodybuilders, it doesn’t take away anything from what soy can contribute to the overall health of a person.

It is very advisable to stick to natural protein rather than processes protein if possible, as processed foods typically have some risk attached to them. The best use of this food can be attributed to how it perfectly fits into anyone’s low-fat, high-protein diet.

Soy products can be incorporated into shakes and drinks. And being lactose-free, lactose intolerant people will still be able to get their milkshake fix without having to suffer so.

Soy products are also a great source of other nutrients such as saponins, isoflavones, and phytosterol. Saponins help support a healthy immune system. It also combines with cholesterol to avoid increased absorption of cholesterol in the body. Phytosterols also help reduce the absorption of cholesterol in the body in the same way saponins do.

Isoflavones are powerful antioxidants and prevent the effects of free radicals in the body. They prevent many of the signs of aging and have been known to help prevent cancer. This alone makes soy a miracle protein source in its own right.

Isoflavones, along with vitamins A,C, and E are among the front liners in the fight against such disease – they also counter the effects of pollution, and stress.

How Much is Too Much
Unlike other protein sources, it is pretty safe to consume a wide amount of soy products. While allergies to soy products exist, cases are few and far between. When changing to a soy diet, however, it would be best to consult your physician or your nutritionist. Ask specifically if the soy interferes with any prescription drugs you are taking.

Soy can be great blessing for people who are looking for a great source of protein that does not entail the side effects of most of the other sources. It would be advisable for one to explore how it can improve one’s diet.

7 Diet Secrets of the Stars

Celebrities always look fabulous. Whether appearing in television or films or strutting down the red carpet during movie premiers and awards, they never cease to fascinate us with their larger than life presence. The truth is, it takes a lot of effort to look the way they do, and being the public figures that they are, they cannot afford to slack off when it comes to taking care of their physical appearances. Their livelihood largely depends on how they look. Aside from the clothes, the hair and the makeup, celebrities have to take good care of their bodies.

So it is no surprise that these stars have their own secrets when it comes to staying fit and gorgeous. Their health agenda can range from extreme workouts to well-planned meals. Who doesn't want to know their secrets in staying absolutely sexy? Here are some of the diet secrets of seven women celebrities.

1. Jennifer Aniston
The star of the phenomenal television show Friends not only mesmerized audiences with her adorable comic sense and her famous hairstyle, she was also known for having one of the sexiest bodies in Hollywood, as she appeared in countless magazine covers. To stay trim, Jennifer follows the 40:30:30 diet method. The diet consists of:

40% Low glycemic carbohydrates
-Foods such as beans, fruits and vegetables, legumes

30% lean proteins
-Tofu, fish, chicken, turkey, beef and low fat dairy products

30% essential fats
-nuts and seeds, fish and olive oils

It is essential that every meal should contain macronutrients to attain the balance of hormones and maximum weight loss.

2. Kate Hudson
The gorgeous daughter of actress Goldie Hawn gained 60 pounds during her pregnancy, which she needed to shed quickly before commencing on her next film. From her previous eating plan, she switched to a higher protein diet. She consumed high protein meals in smaller portions, and she combined this diet with an exercise program that includes weight training and cardiovascular workouts. After getting a lot of flak because of her post-pregnancy figure, Kate removed all that baby weight in only four months and has gained abdominal muscles that gained the envy of many in Hollywood.

3. Oprah Winfrey
As one of the most successful talk-show hosts in the world, there is no question that Oprah needs to maintain her physical appearance for her millions of audiences. Known as one of those celebrities who are constantly battling weight gain, she has recently toned up her figure and has never looked figure in age 50 by combining a regular exercise regime and diet plan. Oprah works out five days a week, spending 30 minutes on the threadmill and doing free weights. Her eating plan consists of legumes, fish, nuts, fruits and vegetables, chicken and dairy products that are lowfat. She limits her consumption of white sugar and flour. Oprah also credits her trim figure to her habit of not eating anything after seven in the evening.

4. Gwyneth Paltrow
A lot of people may find it hard to believe that the perpetually slim Academy award-winning actress actually needs to diet. Gwyneth actually follows a healthy eating plan that resembles Oprah's, avoiding sugar and white flour. She usually follows a macrobiotic diet, eating foods like vegetables, brown rice, and lean meat. She also eliminated dairy from her diet, and does yoga everyday.

5. Madonna
The pop star known as the Material Girl has always flaunted a body that is to die for, and has become a true fitness paragon over the years. She keeps herself in tip-top shape by having Ashtanga Yoga, and follows a strict diet that mostly shuns junk foods. She adopted a macrobiotic eating plan that includes organic foods rich in lean protein.

6. Claudia Schiffer
The bodacious German supermodel eats salad and steamed vegetables for dinner and eats only fruits before the afternoon. While on locations, she prefers to eat black grapes and drinks tomato juice and herbal tea.

7. Christie Brinkley
Long-time supermodel maintains her all-American good looks by being a vegetarian. She does not keep junk foods of any kind inside her home to make sure that she does not eat them when cravings occur. She snacks on sweet potatoes in place of candy bars, and she adopts a liquid juice diet when she needs to slim down fast.

Celebrities are just like ordinary people. They need to maintain their figures just like anyone else, and there is more pressure on their part since they are constantly in the public eye. Ordinary folks can have celebrity-like bodies, too, and by following these diet and fitness plans, they can also look like red-carpet worthy.

Medical Malpractice

With all the hype around medical malpractice, it is hard to get the real story. The problem is that, like violent crime or terrorism, the idea of a doctor making a terrible mistake taps into a primitive fear of ours. Who is not frightened of the idea of becoming terribly sick, or even dying early because of a careless mistake made by a doctor. The horrible tales of surgeries gone awry, or of prescriptions written in such a sloppy hand that they were not filled correctly and made the patient sicker than before, thrill and terrify the listener.

The fact is, however, that the risks of medical malpractice are greatly overstated. I have worked on both sides of the issue, so I know. I have been, on the one hand, a medical malpractice attorney for many years. Before that, however, I was a medical malpractice doctors advocate, so I know what the perception is among the medical community. I can tell you this much: doctors are some of the most competent, highly trained professionals in this country today. Yes there are bad apples in every bunch, but the risks associated with medical malpractice are much lower than us lawyers would lead you to believe. If you think you have been a victim of medical negligence or malpractice, by all means hire a professional attorney. On the other hand, however, sometimes diseases happen and there's nothing that you can do.

The fact is, the reason that people hire medical malpractice attorneys is generally because they are unable to come to terms with their own mortality. We trust doctors, and we think that they can make us better. When they cannot make us better, it feels like a betrayal. In reality, however, doctors are limited by the medical technology available at the time. Sometimes the medication isn't good enough, or the disease is not caught early enough, and there is just nothing that they can do. Other times, the patient has a condition so rare that the doctor does not spot it in time. This is not medical malpractice. This is just a reflection of the fact that doctors are only human.

If lawyers did not rule this country – and lawyers do rule this country – medical malpractice laws would be drastically different. Doctors would be presumed innocent until proven guilty like everyone else. The burden of proof would be much higher than it is now. But that just is not the way it works.

mental-health

No matter what part of society you operate in, mental health care is one of the most ignored issues that there is. I know this might seem like an excessive generalization, but think about it. If people are sick – even if they just have a minor cold – they often go to the doctor. At the very least, they might take a sick day. With mental health disorders, however, illness is ignored until it reaches a critical level. Basically, mental illnesses are completely acceptable as long as you can still function in your job. If you constantly had sinus pain, congestion, and a runny nose, people would think that you were insane if you didn't go to the doctor. Nonetheless, there are people with neurotic conditions that last their whole lives who never seek any mental health counseling.

This is why it is so important to educate people on the importance of health mental. Mental health outreach is crucial. Everyone, from victims of torture and horrible physical abuse to people who have grown up in a fairly normal and healthy environment, runs into a psychological issue at some point in their life. It is estimated to be practically epidemic in our society. Depression mental health issues account for hundreds of thousands of missed workdays every year, and suicide has become a common preventable cause of death. If you know someone who has a psychological health problem, it is important that you do everything in your power to get them into therapy. Undiagnosed mental health problems can put an incredible strain on the patient and the community.

Unfortunately, our society has an absence of mental health support. There is emergency mental health care available almost everywhere, but once you're out of that critical stage, unless you have extremely good insurance, it is hard to be covered. The philosophy is basically to give you a pill and forget about it.

Back even a couple decades ago, health care mental was much better. People could get full courses of therapy to help them deal with chronic mental health problems. The problem is that the pharmaceutical companies and the health care providers are more concerned with profit than with people. It is cheaper to write out a prescription for Prozac than to actually get to the root of a mental issue. Until our society changes its attitudes about psychological health, things will only continue to get worse.

medical-alert-devices-14

More and more elderly people are staying active longer. This means they are opting to stay living in their own homes as opposed to moving to a long-term care facility. Naturally their families will have some concerns, particularly if the individual is dealing with any medical problems, such as heart disease or limited mobility because of arthritis. With medical alert devices, help is only the push of a button away and it gives everyone involved peace of mind.

Although the idea of having someone carry a phone with them at all times works much the same way, it’s simply not logical. With a telephone, even one that has been programmed with 911 on speed dial, there is still the concern of dropping it or having to turn it on. With many of the medical alert devices available, the individual can wear it clipped to their clothing and calling help involves pushing just one button.

Others work with an almost opposite approach. If there is some concern and the person doesn’t respond by pressing a button, then help is sent. These types of medical alert devices are more appropriate for people who are home bound and don’t have many visitors. They are expected to check in with the monitoring company from time to time and if they don’t, an alarm is sounded and an ambulance sent.

The majority of models also have an emergency system in place in the case of a fall or accident. It may be impossible for an elderly person who has fallen to reach the button to signal they need help. For them, having one of the medical alert devices that react when a fall or slip is suspected works very well; this usually happens because of a sensor that is built into it.

If a person isn’t interested in the idea of carrying a device like this on a full-time basis there are models that are designed to be put near a bed or by the bathtub. In the event that the individual feels a problem developing during the night or they suffer an accident while bathing, they can use the medical alert devices to call for help.

Many older people are likely to scoff at the idea of spending money on something like this. Medical alert devices make a perfect gift for a family member to give and they also show how much the person means to them. Using these medical alert devices is easy and most importantly they can save the life of someone dear. They are truly one of the newest pieces of technology that should be used to their full advantage.

medical school

I always thought that medical school was something that took seven years to complete. I thought that seven years went above and beyond regular college, but I guess I am wrong about that. I am still not sure, but I think there are three years of medical school that you take after completing four years of college and taking an exam to enter. There are many who dream of doing this, and they think the costs of this type of education are exceptionally high. They would be right.

However, anyone who wants to go medical school should do it, even if they go into debt, and many people do. It might take many years to pay it off, but when it comes to your life, you have to follow your dreams. If you want to be a doctor, you should be one. No one can be happy with their second or third choice for a career. Some might settle in, but they will never forget about their dream of going to medical school, or following whatever career path they had dreamed about while they were young.

Just don’t go into medical school on a whim. This is something you have to want more than anything else. It is a lot of work, and because it is so expensive, it is not something that should be done without knowing this is what you want to do with the rest of your life. Take some time to research what it takes to attend, and what the life of a doctor might entail. It might not be for you when you really think about it, and there is no sense in going into debt over medical school if it is not something you are sure you want to do.

Once you have really decided that you want to go to medical school, you have to find out what you need to get in, and you have to work for it. You can study, and then you can study some more. You can often find some tips and hints in many places that might better prepare you for what you are going to have to need to know. You can also find help with studying for the entrance exams, so you have an idea what you need to study, and what you will face once you enter school. It’s not easy, but for those who dream of helping others, this is a great career to help them do just that.

Health plan vs. health insurance

Historically, HMOs tended to use the term "health plan", while commercial insurance companies used the term "health insurance". A health plan can also refer to a subscription-based medical care arrangement offered through health maintenance organization, HMO, PPO, or POS plan. These plans are similar to pre-paid dental, pre-paid legal, and pre-paid vision plans. Pre-paid health plans typically pay for a fixed number of services (for instance, $300 in preventive care, a certain number of days of hospice care or care in a skilled nursing facility, a fixed number of home health visits, a fixed number of spinal manipulation charges, etc.) The services offered are usually at the discretion of a utilization review nurse who is often contracted through the managed care entity providing the subscription health plan. This determination may be made either prior to or after hospital admission (concurrent utilization review).