Exercise and boosting calcium consumption can help guard againist osteoporosis at any age.
Until recently, most health professionals aimed toward menopausal and post-menopausal women who were at most risk. Needless to say, all women should be informed on risks of osteoporosis. Women of all ages can take preventative measures at any age.
Be proactive and know that the skeleton is constantly renewing itself which can affect risk of osteoporosis. here are a few tips to better bone health.
1. eat at least three servings of dairy per day. 2. Take a multivitamin 3. Exercise at least 30 minutes three times daily. 4. Limit salty foods 5. If you can't consume daily take a calcium supplement. 6. Keep posture erect.
If you have any questions or concerns consult your physician immediately. Remember, don't wait be proactive!
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Friday, December 11, 2009
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
What you should know about your Medicare B benefits
If you are a medicare recipent make sure to review your coverage benefits.
Starting January 2010 the deductible amount will be $155.00 a year. Which means until you hit $155.00 you will be responsible for charges incurred. Coinsurance will still be 20%. Remember, Medicare covers only 80% of your charges. Medicare part B is for equipment and supplies. Please contact medicare for questions regarding your policy. For medical equipment and supplies questions call www.oxygenplusmichigan.com
Starting January 2010 the deductible amount will be $155.00 a year. Which means until you hit $155.00 you will be responsible for charges incurred. Coinsurance will still be 20%. Remember, Medicare covers only 80% of your charges. Medicare part B is for equipment and supplies. Please contact medicare for questions regarding your policy. For medical equipment and supplies questions call www.oxygenplusmichigan.com
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
November 19th The great American Smoke out!
Tobacco use contributed to more than 438,000 premature deaths in the United States annually between 1997 and 2001 per CMS. Additionally, tobacco continues to be the leading cause of preventable disease and death in the United States. Smoking can attribute to and exacerbate heart disease, stroke, lung disease, cancer, diabetes, hypertension, osteoporosis, macular degeneration, abdominal aortic aneurysm, and cataracts.
Did you know Medicare provides coverage of smoking and tobacco-use cessation counseling for beneficiaries who use tobacco and have a disease or adverse health effect linked to tobacco use, or who take certain therapeutic agents whose metabolism or dosage is affected by tobacco use.
If you have private insurance please contact them for coverage of smoking and tobacco-use cessation. For more information contact Oxygen Plus Medical Equipment and Supplies.
www.oxygenplusmichigan.com
Did you know Medicare provides coverage of smoking and tobacco-use cessation counseling for beneficiaries who use tobacco and have a disease or adverse health effect linked to tobacco use, or who take certain therapeutic agents whose metabolism or dosage is affected by tobacco use.
If you have private insurance please contact them for coverage of smoking and tobacco-use cessation. For more information contact Oxygen Plus Medical Equipment and Supplies.
www.oxygenplusmichigan.com
Monday, November 16, 2009
Holiday giving...
With the holidays fast approaching there is always the question who needs help this year?
In a recent article in the heritage newspaper there was an article on holiday giving. This year the food pantries have seen a 50% increase in the amount of people they are helping. If you are looking to help your local community please contact your local food pantry. For example, in Saline it SASS or Saline Area Social Service. Visit http://www.salinesocialservice.com/ for more information. Oxygenplus Medical Equipment and Supplies will be collecting food for the food pantry. Feel free to stop by with any dry foods or monetary donations. Please visit www.oxygenplusmichigan.com for more information. We hope to collect enough food for at least 10 meals.
In a recent article in the heritage newspaper there was an article on holiday giving. This year the food pantries have seen a 50% increase in the amount of people they are helping. If you are looking to help your local community please contact your local food pantry. For example, in Saline it SASS or Saline Area Social Service. Visit http://www.salinesocialservice.com/ for more information. Oxygenplus Medical Equipment and Supplies will be collecting food for the food pantry. Feel free to stop by with any dry foods or monetary donations. Please visit www.oxygenplusmichigan.com for more information. We hope to collect enough food for at least 10 meals.
Tips for holiday caregiving!
Here is a great article by Angil Tarach...
http://angiltarachrn.blogspot.com/2009/11/8-holiday-tips-when-caring-for-loved.html
http://angiltarachrn.blogspot.com/2009/11/8-holiday-tips-when-caring-for-loved.html
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
FDA Public Health Advisory
Do you have a circulatory disease like diabetes resulting in chronic pain?
The FDA and Consumer Product Safety Commission have received many reports of injury and deaths from burns,electric shock, and fires associated with the use of heating pads. An electric heating pad is usually used to treat sore muscles or joints; however, it can cause harm if not used properly. A heating pad can be dangerous for patients with decreased temperature sensation,diabetes,spinal cord injuries, patients taking medications or patients using oxygen.
NEVER...use on an infant, a person who is parayzed, a person who is sleeping or a person on oxygen. The HTP-1500 Heat therapy pump is the safest alternative. If patients suffer from chronic pain and require regular treatment periods exceeding 30 minutes,have diabetes, are on oxygen or are incontinent they may qualify for the heat therapy pump. Medicare recognizes the heat therapy pump as a covered benefit. Obviously, the necessary paperwork applies including a prescription from the physician showing medical neccessity. Please contact www.oxygenplusmichigan.com for more info on medical equipment or diabetes information.
The FDA and Consumer Product Safety Commission have received many reports of injury and deaths from burns,electric shock, and fires associated with the use of heating pads. An electric heating pad is usually used to treat sore muscles or joints; however, it can cause harm if not used properly. A heating pad can be dangerous for patients with decreased temperature sensation,diabetes,spinal cord injuries, patients taking medications or patients using oxygen.
NEVER...use on an infant, a person who is parayzed, a person who is sleeping or a person on oxygen. The HTP-1500 Heat therapy pump is the safest alternative. If patients suffer from chronic pain and require regular treatment periods exceeding 30 minutes,have diabetes, are on oxygen or are incontinent they may qualify for the heat therapy pump. Medicare recognizes the heat therapy pump as a covered benefit. Obviously, the necessary paperwork applies including a prescription from the physician showing medical neccessity. Please contact www.oxygenplusmichigan.com for more info on medical equipment or diabetes information.
Friday, November 6, 2009
November is Diabetes Month
Studies have shown that over twenty four million people in the US suffer from some form of diabetes. There are several complications to consider. They include heart disease, blindness, glaucoma, nerve damage, and kidney damage. However, early detection and treatment may help prevent or delay many of the complications.
Risk factors include having high blood pressure, having history of diabetes or having diabetes during pregnancy.
Warning signs are being very thirsty, urinating often and losing weight without trying. If you are experiencing any of these signs consult your physician immediately.
Consult your insurance to verify what detection and treatment services are available. It is very important to pay attention to your eyes and feet if your diagnosed already. Products available are diabetic strips, glucometers, diabetic shoes and magnifying aids. Many diabetic supplies are a covered benefit with most insurance plans.
Visit www.diabetes.org or www.oxygenplusmichigan.com for more info on diabetes.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Preventing one of the most tragic events!
Fall Prevention is a must!
Performing a home assessment is often the first step. This is often done in conjuntion with home care. Things to look at include the following.
1.In living area remove rugs,make larger clear paths, remove low coffee tables and remove soft furniture. Also, consider a lift device if person is unable to get up with ease. call 734-429-7444 for more info.
2. If there are steps in the house use railings.
3. In the bathroom use grab bars,bath seat raised toilet seat or handles and a non skid mat inside of the tub.
4. Kitchen safety is often forgotten. Some quick ideas include using an old fashion timer that can be kept in a pocket, wear long sleeves while cooking and consider having meals delivered. Meals on wheels is an excellent alternative to cooking. The next important point is that if you have any physical,hearing or vision issues always tell your doctor. They may have suggestions or alternatives. The last point to fall prevention is medication analysis. Falls are often related to medication. Always tell each doctor you visit what medications your on espically if you see multiple doctors. Also, having your pharmacist look over your medication list regularly is important. there may be medicaitons that contraindicate one another.
Performing a home assessment is often the first step. This is often done in conjuntion with home care. Things to look at include the following.
1.In living area remove rugs,make larger clear paths, remove low coffee tables and remove soft furniture. Also, consider a lift device if person is unable to get up with ease. call 734-429-7444 for more info.
2. If there are steps in the house use railings.
3. In the bathroom use grab bars,bath seat raised toilet seat or handles and a non skid mat inside of the tub.
4. Kitchen safety is often forgotten. Some quick ideas include using an old fashion timer that can be kept in a pocket, wear long sleeves while cooking and consider having meals delivered. Meals on wheels is an excellent alternative to cooking. The next important point is that if you have any physical,hearing or vision issues always tell your doctor. They may have suggestions or alternatives. The last point to fall prevention is medication analysis. Falls are often related to medication. Always tell each doctor you visit what medications your on espically if you see multiple doctors. Also, having your pharmacist look over your medication list regularly is important. there may be medicaitons that contraindicate one another.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
October in Breast Cancer Awareness Month
I'm so excited October is Breast Cancer Awareness month...
I will be focusing on breast cancer education for the entire month of October. If you have any particular interest please email me...I will do all the research and write about the topic! I will be giving away a free gift jsut for stopping by my office to say hi the entire month.
For more info visit www.oxygenplusmichigan.com
I will be focusing on breast cancer education for the entire month of October. If you have any particular interest please email me...I will do all the research and write about the topic! I will be giving away a free gift jsut for stopping by my office to say hi the entire month.
For more info visit www.oxygenplusmichigan.com
Monday, September 21, 2009
The infamous discussion on Swine Flu..
What is the SWINE FLU?
The swine flu is caused by a type A influenza virus. It's a respiratory disease originating first in pigs. This particular influenza virus has mutated so it is infectious now to humans. Because it originated in pigs humans do not have immunity. There has been conversation about it being pandemic. Pandemic mean"world-wide". United States is not yet involved in the pandemic. You can get the flu if someone coughs or sneezes in close proximity to you or if you touch a contaminated surface. The flu can be passed up to seven days after becoming infected of which the first two days may be without symptoms. So many may not even know they are infectious until it is to late.
Signs and symptoms are fever, cough,sore throat,body aches, chills and a temperature. The big warning is if a fever returns within 24-48 hours. The best prevention of spreading a virus is to stay home and away from other people when feeling any signs or symptoms. Other things to consider is to get plenty of rest, exercise often, manage stress, eat healthy and drink plenty of fluids.The best prevention from getting the swine flu or any other flu is to handwash as often as possible. The vaccine is developed much like the original flu vaccine. It will be available mid October. Pregnant women and children will be the first to receive it. Also available will be the nose mist. If your child is 10 years old or under they will require two shots. Remember the best prevention of any virus is to HANDWASH.
For more info visit CDC or www.oxygenplusmichigan.com
The swine flu is caused by a type A influenza virus. It's a respiratory disease originating first in pigs. This particular influenza virus has mutated so it is infectious now to humans. Because it originated in pigs humans do not have immunity. There has been conversation about it being pandemic. Pandemic mean"world-wide". United States is not yet involved in the pandemic. You can get the flu if someone coughs or sneezes in close proximity to you or if you touch a contaminated surface. The flu can be passed up to seven days after becoming infected of which the first two days may be without symptoms. So many may not even know they are infectious until it is to late.
Signs and symptoms are fever, cough,sore throat,body aches, chills and a temperature. The big warning is if a fever returns within 24-48 hours. The best prevention of spreading a virus is to stay home and away from other people when feeling any signs or symptoms. Other things to consider is to get plenty of rest, exercise often, manage stress, eat healthy and drink plenty of fluids.The best prevention from getting the swine flu or any other flu is to handwash as often as possible. The vaccine is developed much like the original flu vaccine. It will be available mid October. Pregnant women and children will be the first to receive it. Also available will be the nose mist. If your child is 10 years old or under they will require two shots. Remember the best prevention of any virus is to HANDWASH.
For more info visit CDC or www.oxygenplusmichigan.com
Thursday, August 27, 2009
So many people suffer from ARTHRITIS..what do you need to know?
Currently, 46 million people suffer from arthritis. This disease costs the US economy approximately $128 billion per year. Arthritis occurs more often as people age. Osteoarthritis is most prevalent in people age 60 and older. So what is Arthritis ? Simply put arthritis is inflammation of a joint or joints. Arthritis slowly destroys the cushioning cartilage around a joint. The cartilage begins to breakdown, causing the bones in the joint to come into contact with one another. This is what cause inflammation,pain and the bones to rub against one another.
There are several types of arthritis. Rheumatoid and osteoarthritis are among the most talked about. Osteoarthritis is the most common form. Ninety percent of people over 40 have signs of osteoarthritis. Symptoms include persistent joint pain,inflammation,joint pain aggravated by activity,joint stiffness in the morning,fatigue,poor posture and loss of flexibility in a joint. Common risk factors include:wear and tear,age,heredity,obesity,injury and lack of physical activity. Normally an x-ray may be used to diagnosis and treat common types of arthritis.
There is no cure for arthritis but it can be managed. Weight control and exercise is one of the best things someone can do. Stretching increases flexibility which helps to support the joints. Swimming is one of the best forms of exercise. Pain relievers help to ease pain but do not help with swelling and inflammation. thermal therapy relax muscles and help relieve deep pain. There are certain braces and splints that can provide heat directly to the joint. Therall is a popular arthritis line. They have heat pads,relief creams,warmers and patches. For more info visit www.arthritis.org or www.arthritis.com
There are several types of arthritis. Rheumatoid and osteoarthritis are among the most talked about. Osteoarthritis is the most common form. Ninety percent of people over 40 have signs of osteoarthritis. Symptoms include persistent joint pain,inflammation,joint pain aggravated by activity,joint stiffness in the morning,fatigue,poor posture and loss of flexibility in a joint. Common risk factors include:wear and tear,age,heredity,obesity,injury and lack of physical activity. Normally an x-ray may be used to diagnosis and treat common types of arthritis.
There is no cure for arthritis but it can be managed. Weight control and exercise is one of the best things someone can do. Stretching increases flexibility which helps to support the joints. Swimming is one of the best forms of exercise. Pain relievers help to ease pain but do not help with swelling and inflammation. thermal therapy relax muscles and help relieve deep pain. There are certain braces and splints that can provide heat directly to the joint. Therall is a popular arthritis line. They have heat pads,relief creams,warmers and patches. For more info visit www.arthritis.org or www.arthritis.com
Monday, June 22, 2009
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage
It seems daily people are confused as to what insurance they really have. The first thing individuals should do is review their policy if they do not understand the coverage call the 800 number on the back of the insurance card. Never automatically assume that you have medicare just because you have a medicare card ! It is common to have medicare and then a medicare advantage policy for insurance coverage.
Medicare advantage plans are extremly popular these days. Most of the older population have medicare or medicare advantage. These two names are NOT the same. For example, most private insurance companies have their own medicare advantage plan. What does that mean? Medicare (the government) has said that they will allow for private insurance companies to offer coverage to seniors who would normally have traditional medicare. This allows for private insurance companies to bill premiums,collect copays or deductibles and then they pay the claims submitted. Obviously, this benefits everyone. People are given other choices than Medicare and it allows private insurance to "compete" in this market.
If someone has a medicare advantage plan that means the insurance company that provides that policy is who collects the premium and pays the claims. Lets use BCBSM as an example. If someone has Medicare plus blue the person pays BCBSM for the policy and they in return pay the claim. Now to confuse things more most of these claims are billed to a contracted area of BCBSM not to BCBSM directly. The provider that is supplying the service or product should call the provider number on the back of the card to find out where the claim should be sent. In the case of BCBSM most of the medicare advantage claims go to Dmension Benefit. In addition, these claims are paper submitted unlike Medicare claims which are all sent electronic.
Medicare and medicare advantage plans cover similar services but not always the exact services. The policies do vary in coverage and premium price. Medicare only covers 80% of services. Most people have secondary insurance plans that they pay to cover the 20% leftover.
Medicare advantage plans typically pay 90% of services.
For questions regarding either of these insurances please contact www.medicare.gov or www.bcbsm.com. In addition you can contact www.oxygenplusmichigan.com if you have specific questions on home medical euquipment that may be needed.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Oxygen therapy?
I think I may need oxygen what do I do?
Today I had a patient stop by my store I'll call her Mary. She wanted to talk to me about getting oxygen therapy. She stated that she had noticed a change in her energy,thoughts and was very tired all the time. She had other minor symptoms as well. She started talking to her friends and reading information and thinks that her change in status is because of the lack of oxygen. Mary called her doctor and they attributed it to something else. So she asked what do I do know?
As a equipment company I suggested she talk to her doctor again. Explain the situation and her feelings. Secondly, I explained that there is a simple test that the doctor or a qualified home medical equipment company can perform. It is a 24 hour overnight pulse oximetry test. It is a device that goes on the finger and the patient wears it overnight. It measures the oxygen saturation. The HME company picks up the device and downloads the info with special software. The test is then given to the physician and they interpret it. If oxygen is necessary the physician then has the appropriate test on hand. Gives the HME a valid prescription and the HME company can then deliver the oxygen. This can all happen within 48 hours or sooner.
Like I told Mary this test is very simple it doesn't hurt and the results are quick. Remember, if you feel something different or have an abrupt change in signs or symptoms call your physician immediately. Clear communication and persistent is the best. Oxygen is considered a drug and a prescription is absolutely necessary. The best lesson I've learned is that we as individuals know our bodies best. So speak up!
For more information call or visit www.oxygenplusmichigan.com
Today I had a patient stop by my store I'll call her Mary. She wanted to talk to me about getting oxygen therapy. She stated that she had noticed a change in her energy,thoughts and was very tired all the time. She had other minor symptoms as well. She started talking to her friends and reading information and thinks that her change in status is because of the lack of oxygen. Mary called her doctor and they attributed it to something else. So she asked what do I do know?
As a equipment company I suggested she talk to her doctor again. Explain the situation and her feelings. Secondly, I explained that there is a simple test that the doctor or a qualified home medical equipment company can perform. It is a 24 hour overnight pulse oximetry test. It is a device that goes on the finger and the patient wears it overnight. It measures the oxygen saturation. The HME company picks up the device and downloads the info with special software. The test is then given to the physician and they interpret it. If oxygen is necessary the physician then has the appropriate test on hand. Gives the HME a valid prescription and the HME company can then deliver the oxygen. This can all happen within 48 hours or sooner.
Like I told Mary this test is very simple it doesn't hurt and the results are quick. Remember, if you feel something different or have an abrupt change in signs or symptoms call your physician immediately. Clear communication and persistent is the best. Oxygen is considered a drug and a prescription is absolutely necessary. The best lesson I've learned is that we as individuals know our bodies best. So speak up!
For more information call or visit www.oxygenplusmichigan.com
Monday, May 4, 2009
Medical Equipment and Senior Adults
Falls and Prevention
Falls are NOT a common aging problem. Did you know the CDC states,"Every 18 seconds an older adults is treated for a fall". Also, every 35 seconds someone dies as a result from injuries relating to a fall. One out of three adults fall each year. One third of individuals suffer from moderate to severe injuries like hip fractures or head traumas. Most fractures are caused by a fall. Feel free to go to CDC.gov for more info.
As a caregiver there are several tips to aid in the prevention of falls. The common issues to address include arranging the furniture to create a clear walking path,removing any non-slip floor items or clutter and make sure lighting is sufficent in all rooms and there are night lights in hallways. Other key issues include maintaining regular exercise that helps to increase lower body strength and balance, a yearly eye examination to ensure proper vision and lastly reviewing all medications to ensure correct dosage and side effects. Most home care providers will do a free evaluation and fall risk assessment as part of their home visit.
OxygenPlus Medical Equipment & Supplies in Michigan and Kentucky is a complete home medical equipment company specializing in mobility and safety equipment. We have several different types of assistive devices that can aid in fall prevention. For example, we carry grab bars that can be installed, canes, walkers and toilet safety rails. It is best to think ahead and not wait until a fall takes place. Feel free to visit http://www.oxygenplusmichigan.com/ for more info.
Falls are NOT a common aging problem. Did you know the CDC states,"Every 18 seconds an older adults is treated for a fall". Also, every 35 seconds someone dies as a result from injuries relating to a fall. One out of three adults fall each year. One third of individuals suffer from moderate to severe injuries like hip fractures or head traumas. Most fractures are caused by a fall. Feel free to go to CDC.gov for more info.
As a caregiver there are several tips to aid in the prevention of falls. The common issues to address include arranging the furniture to create a clear walking path,removing any non-slip floor items or clutter and make sure lighting is sufficent in all rooms and there are night lights in hallways. Other key issues include maintaining regular exercise that helps to increase lower body strength and balance, a yearly eye examination to ensure proper vision and lastly reviewing all medications to ensure correct dosage and side effects. Most home care providers will do a free evaluation and fall risk assessment as part of their home visit.
OxygenPlus Medical Equipment & Supplies in Michigan and Kentucky is a complete home medical equipment company specializing in mobility and safety equipment. We have several different types of assistive devices that can aid in fall prevention. For example, we carry grab bars that can be installed, canes, walkers and toilet safety rails. It is best to think ahead and not wait until a fall takes place. Feel free to visit http://www.oxygenplusmichigan.com/ for more info.
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