WhereToFindCare.com Blog

Third Hand Smoke

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 14:52:00 +0000

Have you ever heard of Third Hand Smoke? I hadn't until a few months ago when the Today Show's Dr. Nancy Sniderman did a segment on this little known subject.

Well, just to recap - first hand is when you are the smoker, second hand is when you are around someone who is actively smoking, third hand is the contaminated air and matter long after the cigarette was extinguished. The Mayo Clinic says "The only way to fully protect your children — and nonsmoking adults in your family — is to make your home and car smoke-free."

Here are a few important facts from Smoking Around Your Children brochure found on MDCH.

Tobacco smoke contributes to 150,000 to 300,000 respiratory infections in babies every year. These infections are the cause of 7,500 to 15,000 hospital stays annually.
• It causes a higher rate of throat infections.
• It causes up to 26,000 new cases of childhood asthma every year.
• It may cause a permanent decrease in lung function.
• It causes up to 80 percent more wheezing, coughing, and production of sputum than normal.
• It leads to more repeated ear infections.

For more information about this subject, check out Michigan Department of Community Health's which includes a Quit Smoking for you and your Baby brochure and other helpful tips.

Obama & Health Care

noreply@blogger.com (Marina) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 00:21:00 +0000

President Barack Obama has started to pitch his new health care plan. The health care changes would entirely restructure the nation's medical plans. The plan is to cover nearly 50 million uninsured Americans, to persuade doctors to stress quality over quantity of care, and to save billions of dollars in spendings. "The president repeatedly said the current health care system is not acceptable and must be overhauled this year. He urged the audience, which included people following on Facebook and YouTube, to reject critics who say his plans are too costly or a step toward socialized medicine," wrote Philip Elliott and Charles Babington of the Associated Press. Whether or not that one agrees with Obama's plan, it is evident that changes must be made, and a better job of aiding citizens with health care is necessary.
For the full article concerning Obama's health care plan and feedback, visit: http://www3.signonsandiego.com/stories/2009/jul/01/us-obama-health-forum-070109/

Fight Against Drunk Driving

noreply@blogger.com (Marina) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 00:13:00 +0000

Each year, many drivers have one too many drinks and still decide to drive. Fighting against drunk driving is fighting for the safety of society. The Genesee Drug and Alcohol Prevention Coalition has asked for the help of bar owners to decrease drunk driving incidents. Although bars are not the reason for drunk driving crashes, they are places to easily and effectively control alcohol consummation. "We can't go into someone's home without probable cause. But retail sale of liquor is a controlled environment. When you get a liquor license, you give up some of those rights. That lets us enter that establishment pretty much any time we choose" said Sergeant Adams of Genesee County. This has sparked much controversy within the bar community, saying that it restricts their rights as well. But all would agree that something must be done. Drunk driving is unsafe for anyone and everyone's health.
For more information on the Genesee Coalition's fight, visit: http://blog.mlive.com/get-healthy-in-genesee/2009/07/genesee_drug_and_alcohol_preve_2.html

Going away with family or friends

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 17:07:00 +0000

Summer is a great season for everyone to enjoy the outdoors.

Here in Michigan we have wonderful lakes, vineyards, festivals (Detroit Cityfest and National Cherry Festival in Traverse City to name a few) and a world class International fireworks show. Parks, picnics areas, dunes, and bike trails are beckoning everyone to enjoy nature's beauty.

Michigan.org is a great source to find fun things to do in Michigan for your 4th of July weekend and throughout the summer.

And WhereToFindCare.com is a helpful resource to learn about health care services and facilities in all areas of Michigan (and throughout the United States) should the need arise.

Dont drink the Dry Milk

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 15:40:00 +0000

The latest in a string of FDA recalls concerns salmonella in dry milk manufactured by CPI Foods, Inc of Dallas, TX. In particular, homebound food kits in several states are the recipients of these contaminated foods.

According the FDA news release "Non Fat Dry Milk packets are components of CPI Foods shelf stable meal kits distributed to various community service companies in Texas, Oklahoma, Arizona, West Virginia, North Carolina, Nevada, and Kentucky. These community service companies deliver CPI Foods shelf stable meal kits to consumers in their homes. The meal kits are packaged in small white boxes that have no identifying information and contain single-serve food items. Distribution of affected kits began in May 1, 2009."

To date there have been no reported illnesses. Anyone with these specific kits is strongly encouraged to toss the dry milk packet in the garbage.

If you become sick from salmonella poisoning please seek medical advice. If you don't have a primary care physician, please use our urgent care finder or hospital finder for a facility near you.

Firework Safety Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Joey) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 14:29:00 +0000

WhereToFindCare.com wishes everyone a Happy 4th of July!

We want you to have a happy, but safe holiday. Are you going to have your own fireworks show this holiday weekend? Here are some safety tips you should consider:

1. Obey local laws. If fireworks are illegal in your area, please don't use them.
2. Never let children handle fireworks.
3. Never handle firework while under the influence of alcohol or prescription drugs that will impair your judgment.
4. Purchase fireworks from a licensed supplier. This will ensure your fireworks meet standards set by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
5. Store fireworks in a cool, dry place.
6. Only use fireworks outdoor, never indoors.
7. Use fireworks in a clear open area.
8. Don't use fireworks in windy condition.
9. Your fireworks should be set up hard and level ground.
10. Never try to fix or relight a faulty firework.
11. Have a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher nearby, just in case.
12. Light fireworks one at a time.
13. Have fun but keep everyone involved safe. Have your friends/family stand a safe distance away from the fireworks. Read all the instructions on each firework and use them as directed. Protect yourself from injury, by wearing protection, like safety glasses.

It's Hot, Be Careful!

noreply@blogger.com (Marina) — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 02:50:00 +0000

After cold Michigan winters, the thing wanted most is some sunshine and heat. But everyone should be aware of what is too much sun and too much heat. As enjoyable as the summer weather can be, it is important to stay conscious of hydration and sun block. It is easy for anyone to lose track of time, forget their SPF, or overstress the body, especially in this heat. It is crucial for everyone to follow these easy steps to maintain a healthy life style in 90 degree temperatures. These steps include simple things such as: drink water, slow down, stay inside, and wear lighter clothing.
For more details on heat terms and to-do's during heat waves, visit:
http://www.mlive.com/news/kalamazoo/index.ssf/2009/06/dont_let_the_heat_beat_your_bo.html

Fighting for Health Care Reform

noreply@blogger.com (Marina) — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 02:42:00 +0000

It should not be impossible for a person to find health care that is affordable and helpful. But it can be. Whether breaking an arm in an accident or needing a surgery, there is always a reason to find dependable health care. Governor Granholm and union leaders are fighting to push Michigan's health care reform. Although easier said than done, we are slowly taking steps toward positive changes. In an interview, Mark Gaffney of Michigan AFL-CIO said, "We need an employer-based system, but at the same time we need a public option that people can, if they can afford, buy into it. We think that will provide the competition to, over the years, keep costs down and quality up." Until problems are resolved, every individual can and should stay informed and compare health care providers to find what is best for specific situations.
For more details on the health care reform, visit:
http://www.mlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2009/06/granholm_union_leaders_push_he.html

Signs of a Heart Attack (Cardiac Arrest)

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 22:52:00 +0000

Knowing the signs can save someone's live. According to the American Heart Assocation, the warning signs of a heart attack are:

Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.
Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.
Other signs may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness

Women and men often experience different signs. According to the National Heart, Blood and Lung Institute " As with men, women's most common heart attack (cardiac arrenst) symptom is chest pain or discomfort. But women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain.

In addition to knowing the signs, they urge people to contact their doctor or call 911 if it doesn't resolve within minutes. Every minute counts.

For more information, please visit National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, American Heart Association
To locate a hospital near you, please use our hospital search tool at WhereToFindCare.com.

Need Help With Back and Neck Pain? Here's Some Help!

noreply@blogger.com (Marina) — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 16:24:00 +0000

If you're having back and neck problems, the McLaren Regional Medical Center in Flint is offering a free program to help. There will be information on injections/treatment options, when you know you need to see a doctor or surgeon, Q&A's with experts, and tips on how to make living easier for yourself. Back and neck problems are common with any individual, especially as they get older throughout a life time, so take advantage of this free opportunity and see what you can do to help yourself feel stronger.
For more information, visit:
http://blog.mlive.com/get-healthy-in-genesee/2009/06/mclaren_experts_offer_free_bac.html

Boost Your Health With Sushi

noreply@blogger.com (Marina) — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 16:08:00 +0000

The Japanese cuisine of fine Sushi has taken the world by storm. More and more people around the world have acquired the taste as of late, and lucky for them, Sushi is one of the healthiest dishes out there.

With many varieties of Sushi, any one can choose a different kind of healthy meal. Vegetarians have many options ranging from types with avocado, cucumber, ginger, aspargaus, and many other vegetables. For non-vegetarians, raw fish or "sashimi" and crab are typical meats for Sushi.

There are many reasons why Sushi is so beneficial for your health:
1. Seaweed: This is wrappe around the outside of the Sushi and keeps it together. The nutrients in it are good for your body, and also keep your hair healthy, as well.
2. Vegetables: You can basically ask for any kind of vegetable you want and as we all know, veggies are great and essential for your body.
3. Meats: Of course there are ways to choose unhealthy options with Sushi. But overall, "sashimi," although hard to get the hang of, is one of the healthiest options around. The great thing is that you can choose what is right for your body and your diet.
4. Rice: Sushi offers a great serving of Carbohydrates. Servings sizes are smaller but very filling, the consuming of more Carbs is unncessary. But be careful with using too much soy sauce. It contains a lot of sodium.

Try something new and get acquainted with the art and taste of Sushi, popularizing all over the world. To read more about this cuisine, click on the following links:
http://whfoods.org/genpage.php?tname=dailytip&dbid=78
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/blog/2009/06/07/is-sushi-healthy/
http://www.ifood.tv/network/healthy_sushi/recipes

Practice Art to Improve Your Health

noreply@blogger.com (Barbara) — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 17:42:00 +0000

By Marina Takagi

One of the most beneficial hobbies and practices that develop both mental and physical health is simple: Art. Whether playing the piano or painting a scenic landscape or taking a dance class, these forms of art help to maintain our body and our psychological well-being.

Music
Teaching yourself to play an instrument, singing, taking music lessons: any of these help your health. As a woman grows older, the more movement and exercise she gets, the healthier. A simple daily hour of playing the piano helps finger and hand articulation, strenghtening and fighting against arthiritis. The same goes with playing a flute or a violin. Not only does this help one physicially, but the satisfacton of musical accomplishment is a dessert for the ears. Even going to the occasional concert at a local venue helps to get a load off of your shoulders and rejuvenates.

Some music companies that are available:
1) Ann Arbor Music Center: Take music lessons!
(734) 665-0375
2) The Ark: Find concerts to attend!
(734)-761-1800

Dance
Although there are types of dance that are physically vigorous, there are also kinds that anyone can do. Whether you take a beginner's ballet class or take a salsa or ballroom dancing class with your significant other, you are bound to have fun. Along with being an activity that you can thoroughly enjoy, it keeps the body healthy and active, definitely a plus. Like music, seeing a dance performance is great entertainment as well. Perhaps, you'll even be on the stage, too!

Some dance ideas available:
1) Dance Theatre Studio: Take an adult ballet, ballroom, or even pilates class! (other genres also available)
711 North University
Ann Arbor, Michigan
dancetheatrestudio@att.net
(734)-995-4242
2) Swing City Dance Studio: Take a swing class with a friend or a significant other!
1960 S. Industrial E&F
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
(734)-668-7782
3) Visit Ann Arbor: Find a dance event to attend and view!
(734) 995-7281

Painting & Drawing
Painting or drawing a picture is typically the first thing that one thinks of when thinking of the word "art." These classes are accessible in the area, just as music and dance classes. Like music, the utilization of wrists, hands, and fingers generate movement beneficial to health as one gets older. There are so many types of painting and drawing, that you are bound to find an activity that is right for you. Also, you can go to a local art museum just to take your mind off of things and see art at its finest.

A couple examples of art centers:
1) Ann Arbor Art Center: Take art classes!
117 W Liberty St, Ann Arbor, MI
(734) 994-8004
2) University of Michigan Museum of Art: Take a look at a great art gallery!
525 S State St, Ann Arbor
(734) 764-0395

There are also other activities that one can do: pottery, beading, knitting, clothing design, decorating, cuisine. Any of these can be done from the home and can be entertaining and helpful.
As you can see, there are endless ways to boost your health, just by taking part in any of these artistic activities. Not only do you get the sastisfaction of accomplishing something, but you keep your mind and your body in peak shape, also giving you the satisfaction of a bright future.

How Your Kids Can Help Maintain Your Health

noreply@blogger.com (Barbara) — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 17:22:00 +0000

By Marina Takagi

The easiest way to maintain your physical and mental health and keeping them in great shape, is simply staying active. And what is the easiest way to stay active? Be with your kids!

Whether you take a walk with your child or swim in the pool with them, you are keeping your body strong while being with the ones you care about most. Along with being active with your children, you also try to feed them well right? As you feed your kids healthy meals, making sure they get their vitamins and minerals, give yourself the same health-conscious cuisine as well. Kids, whether 6 or 16, are always active. What better thing is there than to keep yourself healthy as you keep your family active as well?

For a detailed article, visit: http://www.mlive.com/living/kalamazoo/index.ssf/2009/06/parents_stay_active_to_keep_ki.html

H1N1 Pandemic Margaret Chan Declares Swine Flu is Phase 6

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn) — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 18:18:00 +0000

Today, the World Health Organizations Director General, Dr. Margaret Chan, made these statements to the press:

In late April, WHO announced the emergence of a novel influenza A virus.
This particular H1N1 strain has not circulated previously in humans. The virus is entirely new.
The virus is contagious, spreading easily from one person to another, and from one country to another. As of today, nearly 30,000 confirmed cases have been reported in 74 countries.
We know that the novel H1N1 virus preferentially infects younger people. In nearly all areas with large and sustained outbreaks, the majority of cases have occurred in people under the age of 25 years.
In some of these countries, around 2% of cases have developed severe illness, often with very rapid progression to life-threatening pneumonia.
Most cases of severe and fatal infections have been in adults between the ages of 30 and 50 years.
This pattern is significantly different from that seen during epidemics of seasonal influenza, when most deaths occur in frail elderly people.
Many, though not all, severe cases have occurred in people with underlying chronic conditions. Based on limited, preliminary data, conditions most frequently seen include respiratory diseases, notably asthma, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and obesity.
At the same time, it is important to note that around one third to half of the severe and fatal infections are occurring in previously healthy young and middle-aged people.
Without question, pregnant women are at increased risk of complications. This heightened risk takes on added importance for a virus, like this one, that preferentially infects younger age groups.
To read the full announcement please visit the WHO website.

Phase 6, the pandemic phase, is characterized by community level outbreaks in at least one other country in a different WHO region in addition to the criteria defined in Phase 5.

Please remember to follow these CDC guidelines to stay healthy:

1. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
2. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
3. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
4. Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
5. If you get sick, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
6. Be sure to use our health care provider locator on WhereToFindCare.com. Our website contains addresses, phone numbers, quality information, user ratings, driving directions, and more much for U.S. health care providers, such as hospitals, urgent care walk-in clinics, and free clinics, and federally qualified health clinics.

*Information on WhereToFindCare.com is for informational purposes only. Always seek medical advice from your physician. In cases of emergency, seek care from an emergency health care provider.

Obama Addresses Health Care Reform at Town Hall

noreply@blogger.com (Barbara) — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 17:58:00 +0000

On Thursday 6/11/09, President Obama addressed U.S. health care reform at a town hall in Green Bay, WI. He outlined his goals and stressed the need for swift change. He also emphasized strongly that he is not proposing "socialized medicine" and that he is not interested in government running the US health care system. While he clarified some points, several questions still remain.

Among the reasons for swift change:

The US spends 50% more than other countries, yet receives no better quality

The cost of health care increased three times faster than the cost of labor in recent years

The cost of doing nothing will be much higher in years to come

Obama's goal: Quality health care for every American at an affordable cost.

What Obama proposes:

Invest in wellness programs

Allow those who like their doctors or health care plans to keep them

Change provider incentives so they are not rewarded for performing unnecessary tests and procedures, or those that result in mistakes. He says the current system "equates expensive care with better care" and pays based on the number of tests and procedures performed.

Provide more affordable health insurance options

Create a "health insurance exchange" for health insurance one-stop-shopping. Consumers will be able to compare plans and choose what's best for them.

Require that no plans be able to deny coverage based on pre-existing conditions

Provide assistance to consumers who cannot afford a basic benefits package

President Obama also announced that more information will be revealed in the coming days about his cost savings plans that will help pay for health care reforms. He hopes Congress will submit a health care plan sometime in October.

While the President did his best to explain his goals for a public health insurance option, some important questions still remain. Like, will the healthcare system have enough capacity to serve the additional 47 million currently uninsured patients? As these patients become insured under a public health plan and utilize more health care resources, will this put a strain on the system and create treatment delays for everyone?

If a new public health insurance is implemented as suggested, why would anybody choose a private health care option? Will employers continue to offer private health insurance in benefits packages or will they encourage employees to utilize public insurance in order to save money? And what will that mean to private insurance companies and consumers' choice?

Current public health care plans such as Medicare and Medicaid traditionally do not pay much to providers and often do not cover the cost of providing care...with more patients having public insurance, what will that mean for providers' ability to cover costs and stay in business?

It sounds like a grand plan with great benefit; however very few details are available that would allow anyone to determine if it is actually feasible. As the saying goes, "the devil is in the details." We'll all just have to wait to learn more.

In the meantime, if you're uninsured and cannot afford health care you still have options. Free clinics and Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) exist nationwide to provide free or low-cost basic health care to those in need. Go to WhereToFindCare.com to find and rate these providers in your area.

Anyone Can Practice Yoga for the Mind, Body & Soul

noreply@blogger.com (Barbara) — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 13:21:00 +0000

By Marina Takagi

There are many types of Yoga in this day and age, types ranging from slow, relaxing methods to fast-paced, workout methods. The great thing about Yoga is that anyone can practice it. A stressed out college student during finals week, a pregnant mother, or a working woman can all find some kind of benefit to the art and practice of Yoga.

There are types of Yoga that focus on breathing and relaxation. These kinds of Yoga are usually slower-paced, relying on the power of meditation. An example of this kind of Yoga is Kripalu. By learning to breathe and relax, an individual can learn to focus their negative energies and replace them with the positive. This kind of Yoga can be done any where at any time; practicing in a office or in your own living room. All types of Yoga carry some aspect of meditation, but some, like Kripalu, focus more on this than others.

Types of Yoga that are a little more intense include Ashtanga and Power Yoga. These kinds of Yoga focus on physical strength along with mental power. The goal is to be able to channel mental strength with physical strength, believing that the mind and body together can accomplish. This practice of Yoga is very beneficial as a work out. It is challenging but still, any person can participate. Yoga is about self-accomplishment and development so an individual focuses on their own limits and skills, no matter how different they are from the rest of the people in the room.

There are many different types of Yoga, in different places, in different styles. But no matter the type, Yoga has a very beneficial effect. The calmness yet mental push of Yoga works the mind. The stretching yet muscle toning works the body. And all of this put together works the soul.

Yoga classes and Yoga centers are all over the country. Look for the one nearest you.
Here are some in the Ann Arbor, MI area:

*Sun - Moon Yoga Studio
sun-moon-yoga.com
(734) 929-0274

*A2Yoga--A2Yoga Wellness Studio
a2yoga.com
(734) 216-4006

*Siddha Yoga Meditation Center of Ann Arbor http://www.blogger.com/www.siddhayoga.org
(734) 747-7116

* Ann Arbor School of Yoga
http://www.annarborschoolofyoga.com/
(734) 663-7612

Universities Aiding in Stem Cell Research

noreply@blogger.com (Barbara) — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 13:00:00 +0000

By Marina Takagi

The debate of the right and wrong when it comes to stem cell research will always be an issue. But in this day and age, the developments that have come and will come from stem cell research cannot be over-looked.

The University of Michigan has been working with other universities, such as Michigan State University, Oakland University, and Wayne State University, to advance stem cell research and its results in their studies. It was the first, large meeting of groups since last November when stem cell research laws were loosened in the state of Michigan. "Human embryonic stem cells are seen as particularly valuable in creating eventual cures for disease because they can turn into any tissue in the body.

The research is controversial because the embryos are destroyed in the process" (Dave Gershmann, Ann Arbor News). Is this right or wrong? It will be a never-ending question. For the article in its entirety, visit the Ann Arbor News.

Beware of Fake Health Plans

noreply@blogger.com (Joey) — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 04:54:00 +0000

With the number of uninsured on the rise, some have taken to the Internet in search of discounted health care programs. But beware, some of the discount health care programs are scams.

The Federal Trade Commission and at least eight states have taken action against more than two dozen health cards for offering discounts services that don't exist.

Consumer advocates say you should suspect a scam if:
1.You learn of the discount card from a blast fax or Internet pop up ad.
2. They promise a certain percentage savings.
3. They use the term "guaranteed coverage."
4. They won't give you a list of providers until you sign up.
5. It sounds too good to be true.

(Source: CNN)

Did you know some health care providers offer their services for free or low cost? Check out the free/low cost clinic finder to see if you qualify and find a clinic near you. You should also check out federally qualified health centers. They provide free/low cost care to those who qualify.

Looking for other ways to cut your medical expenses? Many pharmacies offer discount generic drug programs. Also check out this article on tips to control your health care costs.

Medical Related Bankruptcies are on the Rise

noreply@blogger.com (Joey) — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 04:16:00 +0000

According to a new study, medical bills account for more than 60% of bankruptcies. This is an increase, in 2001, 46% of bankruptcies were medical-related.

The study surveyed a random sample of 2,374 people who filed for bankruptcy in early 2007, examined court records, and interviewed 1,000 of them.

A surprising fact from the study: 75% of the people who filed medical-related bankruptcy had health insurance.

78% of patients from the study said there were gaps in their coverage, like co-payments, deductibles, and uncovered services. Other people had private insurance, but got so sick that they lost their job and insurance.

"Unless you're a Warren Buffett or Bill Gates, you're one illness away from financial ruin in this country," says lead author Steffie Woolhandler, M.D., of the Harvard Medical School, in Cambridge, Mass. "If an illness is long enough and expensive enough, private insurance offers very little protection against medical bankruptcy, and that's the major finding in our study."

(Source: CNN)

Other links of interest:
No Health Insurance? A Tip to Control Health Care Costs
Free/Low Cost Clinic Finder
Discounted care courtesy of the Federal Government
Discounted Prescription Programs

Premium Home Page Marketing Tip #1: Update the Communication Section

noreply@blogger.com (Barbara) — Fri, 29 May 2009 14:00:00 +0000

We're kicking off a series of tips to help you improve your marketing presence on WhereToFindCare.com. Follow us on Twitter to get more tips and ask us questions.

This tip comes to you thanks to Enovasis Healthcare Solutions, the experienced consultants who can help you improve quality, patient satisfaction and profit.

Tip #1: Make Sure Your Communication Section is Complete and Accurate

The Communication section of your Premium Home Page is vital to obtaining the unlimited leads you're entitled to as a Premium subscriber. Here, prospects can obtain your contact information and even submit an e-lead to as many as five individuals in your organization. Without complete and accurate information, prospects will not be able to reach you and you will not know how effective your WhereToFindCare.com marketing campaign is.

To add contact information, simply locate and click on the "Update Communication" link to the far right of your screen while in edit mode (circled in the image below). Next, enter your phone number and up to five separate e-mail addresses. To get started, log in now and click Facility Editor Portal. If you have any difficulty, please contact us.

1. Click "Update Communication"

2. Enter contact information

Avon Walks for Breast Cancer

noreply@blogger.com (Barbara) — Thu, 28 May 2009 19:17:00 +0000

by Marina Takagi

Starting May 16 in Boston Massachusetts, the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer takes a step toward victory. Participants walk for 39 miles, raising awareness and donations for the millions of individuals who are affected by breast cancer.

There are also walks in Chicago, the Rocky Mountains, San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, Charlotte, Houston, and a final walk in Washington D.C. Each participant is important. The more participants, the more funds can be used to treat patients and help with treatment and support. Every person is important: any age, any gender, any one. You can help. You can help the cause.

For more information or to sign up, visit: http://walk.avonfoundation.org/site/PageServer?pagename=walk_homepage

10 Ways for Healthy, Happy Living...No Matter the Age

noreply@blogger.com (Barbara) — Thu, 28 May 2009 19:10:00 +0000

by Marina Takagi

Every woman has wants and needs. Every woman is capable of fulfilling those single-handedly. There are easy methods that any woman, any age can utilize, easily boosting health, happiness, and being.

10. It's okay to indulge: Eat a chocolate bar, buy shoes or a bottle of wine that may be a little more expensive, or get a manicure/pedicure.

9. Say it: you're a woman!: Feel empowered as a woman, physically and emotionally.

8. Feel the beat: Music is a gift. Whether you need Mozart to help you study, Shania Twain to listen to in the car, or Norah Jones to relax you, there is a fitting genre to fit your mood.

7. Do something you normally wouldn't do: Maybe you never wear high heels and dresses. Maybe you have never liked the outdoors. So then, go on a date in some stilettos and a cocktail dress or go camping for a weekend. You can do what you want to do.

6. Be careful in the sun: Sunshine can be a pick-me-up, but too much sun can be a hand-me-down. Use that sunscreen and be careful. You know your body's limits when it comes to those UV Rays.

5. A smile goes alone way: You can read a book that makes you laugh, watch a TV show, or enjoy the company of jokster friends. No matter the choice, laughter boosts your mood, pulling you out from slumps and dreary days.

4. Relax: Take a bath. Read a book. Go on a run. Watch a movie. Breathe. Every woman deserves a step back and time to relax.

3. It always helps to stay informed: Read about the latest health news and make sure you know what is going on in your society. It never hurts to be safe and also help others be aware, as well. Along with staying informed about our society, check-up on your own health too.

2. Eat smart: Eating healthy is important. It's okay to have the occasional dessert or coffee drink. Just make sure you know your body and its' limits. (Don't go to the grocery store hungry...that'll save your bank account, too!)

1. Move!: Whether it's going to the gym, playing sports, or just walking around the block with your dog...stay active.

One Memorial Day Travel Preparedness Tip

noreply@blogger.com (Barbara) — Fri, 22 May 2009 13:13:00 +0000

Like many Americans this Memorial Day weekend, you might be headed out of town to a remote campground, your family's cottage or to an number of fun destinations. But before you head out of town, take a minute to prepare yourself with information should an emergency or accident occur.

Locate the nearest urgent care or hospital emergency room to your vacation spot. This might be especially important in light of the current ground beef recall. Should a family member get sick or even injured, you don't want to waste time searching for help.

National Hospital Week May 10-16, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Barbara) — Wed, 06 May 2009 20:05:00 +0000

The week of May 10 - 16, 2009 was designated National Hospital Week to recognize hospitals and the people who work and volunteer at hospitals.

These organizations and individuals play a vital role in our communities and of course, our health. That's why we want you to help us celebrate National Hospital Week by recognizing the good that your hospital has done for you by rating your hospital and nominating a CareStar(tm).

National Women's Health Week

noreply@blogger.com (Barbara) — Mon, 04 May 2009 17:42:00 +0000

The week following Mother's Day is National Women's Health Week, May 10 - 16, 2009). Coordinated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Office on Women's Health, the goal is to get women to make their health a priority and take some simple steps to improve their health such as:

Getting at least 2.5 hours of moderate physical activity, 1 hour and 15 minutes of vigorous physical activity, or a combination of both each week
Eating a nutritious diet (for help with this, we like the resources our friends at NutriInfo put together http://www.nutriinfo.com )
Visiting a health care professional for regular checkups and preventative screenings
Avoiding risky behaviors, like smoking and not wearing a seat belt
Paying attention to mental health, including getting enough sleep and managing stress.
If you're over 40, get a mammogram

For more information or to see events in your neighborhood, go to http://www.womenshealth.gov.