What to expect when considering LASIK

If you’ve ever considered LASIK here in Dallas / Fort Worth, the first thought might have been, “what can I expect?” Like a lot of medical procedures, LASIK surgery has advanced and improved over the years. Today, LASIK is allowing more patients to become less dependent on glasses or contact lenses. It’s not uncommon for our patients to tell us, “my eyesight is better without glasses than it was with glasses before I had surgery.”

Here is a shortlist of the most important things to expect:

1. A thorough examination to see if you’re a LASIK candidate. First, you must be 18 or older to have it performed. People well into their 40’s can be LASIK candidates as well. Age, vision health, and overall health can make a difference.

2. For your doctor to tell you everything you need to know. LASIK has become safer, more effective, and with faster recovery times. Still, LASIK is a surgical procedure, which is why your doctor should shoot straight with you (as ours do) about the benefits and any potential complications. This includes taking the time to answer your questions and listen to your concerns.

3. Skill, experience, and advanced technology. Phillips Kirk Labor, MD is known locally here in metro Dallas, and internationally, as a LASIK innovator, but also for his devotion to each patient’s well being. He uses an advanced procedure called iLASIK, which combines the Intralase IFS Femtosecond Laser with VISX technology. iLASIK was designed to improve results, but also safety, and patient comfort (an added comfort is that we perform the entire procedure in our office).

4. Mild, temporary post-surgery discomfort. The procedure itself involves very minimal or no discomfort, and takes only a few minutes. After surgery, a mild scratchiness, burning or itching is normal, which quickly improves as the eyes adjust and heal. We tell our patients to immediately get rest and use special eye drops we prescribe to speed the healing process.

5. Better vision. Our patients generally see better right after surgery, which continually improves as the days progress. LASIK isn’t permanent, and results can vary. But most every LASIK patient can enjoy clear vision for many years. This is why every LASIK procedure starts with a thorough examination – to ensure the best outcome, but also to inform you of everything that will happen.

There is much more our doctors can tell you about what to expect. If you’re considering LASIK, please call our Metro Dallas offices in Grapevine at 877-516-4364 to learn more and read what other patients have to say.

 

Source: http://www.eyectexas.com/blog/dallas-lasik-fort-worth/

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Changes are Coming to Your Health Savings Accounts

It’s the season of open enrollment for health insurance plans, and if you have an HSA (Health Spending Account – sometimes called a Health Reimbursement or Flex Spending Account), it’s time to max it out! Tax laws have changed, and this coming year, 2012, is the last year that you can place the maximum $5,000 in your HSA. Starting in 2013, the maximum allowed in any Health Savings Account will be $2,500, which means that the entire cost of laser eye surgeries such as LASIK cannot be covered by your HSA pre-tax dollars after 2012.

If you have questions about the coming changes, or if you would like to set up a consultation for LASIK or other laser vision correction procedures, please contact Grochmal Eye Center at (410) 697-4090.

Source: http://www.grochmaleye.com/blog/hsa-flex-spending-account/

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The Coronary Artery Entrapment

Source: http://bernardlown.wordpress.com/2012/07/31/the-coronary-artery-entrapment/

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Top 5 Patient Benefits of iLASIK™

Since its inception, laser vision correction has been changing the lives of our patients, enhancing vision and reducing or eliminating our patients’ dependence on eyeglasses and contact lenses.  Now, our practice is proud to offer what many consider to be the most advanced LASIK system available: iLASIK™.  Not sure what this cutting-edge procedure is all about?

Here is our list of the Top 5 Patient Benefits of iLASIK:

1. Fully-customized procedure. iLASIK is not a one-size-fits-all procedure.  Rather, using cutting-edge 3D eye mapping, iLASIK creates a one-of-a-kind image that is used to guide your LASIK procedure.  This unique “roadmap” means a fully-customized procedure in keeping with your unique anatomy and medical needs.
2. Completely bladeless. Where some LASIK systems rely on metal blades, iLASIK creates a corneal flap using a precise laser.  This completely blade-free system is an ideal alternative for those hesitant about “going under the knife.”  What’s more, this method often results in better and faster healing following the procedure.
3. Cool laser technology. A second laser – the one used to make the actual vision correction – can be understood as a “cool laser.”  Using pain-free, ultraviolet light, iLASIK works to reshape the cornea and achieve better vision.  What’s more, vision correction takes only seconds per eye.
4. Iris registration. Cutting-edge iris registration technology ensures that iLASIK’s laser remains aligned, even if you move your eye.  This offers not only a more precise procedure, but very often a quicker procedure as well.
5. Most patients achieve 20/20 vision or better. Of course, the most important benefit of iLASIK is its remarkable results.  And, while each patient’s results will vary, most iLASIK patients achieve 20/20 vision or better following the procedure.

iLASIK in Winchester

To learn more about iLASIK, contact us today and schedule a consultation. Our offices are located in Winchester, serving Virginia, West Virginia and Maryland, and you can reach us directly at (540) 722-6200.  We look forward to meeting you.

Source: http://www.seeclear.com/blog/lasik/top-5-patient-benefits-of-ilasik%e2%84%a2

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Dr. L. Shay Richardson, MD, Chattanooga, TN, 37404

Website Address: 

Center for Sports Medicine and Orthopaedics Website

Phone: 

4236242696

Source: http://www.spine-health.com/doctor/interventional-pain-medicine-physician/l-richardson-chattanooga-tn

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Dr. L. Shay Richardson, MD, Chattanooga, TN, 37404

Website Address: 

Center for Sports Medicine and Orthopaedics Website

Phone: 

4236242696

Source: http://www.spine-health.com/doctor/interventional-pain-medicine-physician/l-richardson-chattanooga-tn

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This Week Near the Center for Total Health

On a Walk with a Doc with the Center for Total Health’s own Ted Eytan, Pierre Vigilance, MD, MPH, Visiting Professor for Practice at George Washington University School of Public Health and Health Services, and Tyler Norris, MDiv, Vice President of Total Health Partnerships for Kaiser Permanente, explore Washington, D.C.’s H Street NE corridor and admire the brand new H Street NE Heritage Trail.

 

Source: http://centerfortotalhealth.org/2012/this-week-near-the-center-for-total-health/

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Severe endometriosis – successful Natural IVF

Abigail was a 36 year old when she came to us, she had severe endometriosis and she was not able to undergo ovarian stimulation because she suffered from extreme pelvic pain with ovulation and ovarian stimulation could make her endometriosis worse. Her husband’s sperm was normal. She had damaged tubes and needed IVF to help [...]

Source: http://www.createhealthclinics.org/blog/natural-cycle-ivf/severe-endometriosis/

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Fertility – a much wider issue

When people are broached with the subject of fertility, one often associates it is to an individual family’s desire to have children. However, as Professor Nargund expresses in her paper “Declining birth rate in Developed Countries: A radical re-think is required”, the subject touches society much more widely as a whole for both the developed [...]

Source: http://www.createhealthclinics.org/blog/fertility/fertility-a-much-wider-issue/

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Successful Natural Cycle IVF helps older women become mothers

TRACY’S STORY… My Husband Andrew and I met in July 2005. Andrew told me he had fertility problem as a result of being a Cystic Fibrosis carrier. He was born with Congenital Absence of the Vas Deferens (no tubes from the testicles to the outside world). As a result our only way of having our [...]

Source: http://www.createhealthclinics.org/blog/natural-cycle-ivf/successful-natural-cycle-ivf-helps-older-women-become-mothers/

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Distribution of arterial lesions in Takayasu’s arteritis

Steven R. Ytterberg, M.D., with the Department of Rheumatology at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., discusses a study that examined similarities and differences between two forms of vasculitis: giant cell arteritis and Takayasu’s arteritis. Findings suggest that TAK and GCA may exist on a spectrum within the same disease. The study was published online on Feb. 10, 2012 in the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases.

ABSTRACT
Objectives
To compare patterns of arteriographic lesions of the aorta and primary branches in patients with Takayasu’s arteritis (TAK) and giant cell arteritis (GCA).

Methods
Patients were selected from two North American cohorts of TAK and GCA. The frequency of arteriographic lesions was calculated for 15 large arteries. Cluster analysis was used to derive patterns of arterial disease in TAK versus GCA and in patients categorized by age at disease onset.

Using latent class analysis, computer derived classification models based upon patterns of arterial disease were compared with traditional classification.

Results
Arteriographic lesions were identified in 145 patients with TAK and 62 patients with GCA. Cluster analysis demonstrated that arterial involvement was contiguous in the aorta and usually symmetric in paired branch vessels for TAK and GCA. There was significantly more left carotid (p=0.03) and mesenteric (p=0.02) artery disease in TAK and more left and right axillary (p<0.01) artery disease in GCA. Subclavian disease clustered asymmetrically in TAK and in patients ≤55 years at disease onset and clustered symmetrically in GCA and patients >55 years at disease onset.

Computer-derived classification models distinguished TAK from GCA in two subgroups, defining 26 percent and 18 percent of the study sample; however, 56 percent of patients were classified into a subgroup that did not strongly differentiate between TAK and GCA.

Conclusions
Strong similarities and subtle differences in the distribution of arterial disease were observed between TAK and GCA. These findings suggest that TAK and GCA may exist on a spectrum within the same disease.

Authors
Peter C. Grayson, Kathleen Maksimowicz-McKinnon,Tiffany M. Clark, Gunnar Tomasson, David Cuthbertson, Simon Carette, Nader A .Khalidi, Carol A. Langford, Paul A. Monach, Philip Seo, Kenneth J. Warrington, M.D., Steven R. Ytterberg, M.D., Gary S. Hoffman,  and Peter A. Merkel, for the Vasculitis Clinical Research Consortium

Source: http://physicianupdate.mayoclinic.org/2012/04/26/distribution-of-arterial-lesions-in-takayasu%e2%80%99s-arteritis/

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Black Blood Must Not Contaminate White Folks (Essay 25)

Source: http://bernardlown.wordpress.com/2011/09/03/black-blood-must-not-contaminate-white-folks/

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Top 5 Myths of Glaucoma

Most people have heard of glaucoma, but few know the whole story.  In short, glaucoma is an eye condition where the optic nerve becomes damaged, usually as a result of increased pressure in the eye.  This damaging of the optic nerve ultimately causes a gradual but serious loss of vision.  Untreated, the disease often results in complete blindness.

Now that you have a basic understanding of glaucoma, let’s clear up a few of the most common myths surrounding this serious condition.

Here are the top 5 myths of glaucoma:

1. Myth:  Glaucoma is rare.
Fact: On the contrary, it has been estimated that over 2 million Americans are suffering from glaucoma.  Even more disturbing is the fact that glaucoma remains a leading cause of blindness in the US.

2. Myth:  Only patients with a family history can develop glaucoma.
Fact: Although certain factors like age and heredity can increase your chances of developing glaucoma, the condition can affect anyone, anywhere and at any age.

3. Myth:  Glaucoma cannot be treated.
Fact: While there is currently no cure, there are a host of Glaucoma Treatments aimed at minimizing the risk of permanent vision loss. These treatments include medications, eye drops and surgery.

4. Myth: Only patients with glaucoma symptoms should get checked out.
Fact: The majority of glaucoma patients do not experience any symptoms before the optic nerve actually becomes damaged.  For this reason, regular glaucoma screenings are vitally important.

5. Myth:  Glaucoma screenings are painful.
Fact: Glaucoma screenings test different things—visual field, pressure in the eye, etc.  Each of these tests are not only quick, but non-painful.

Get Checked!  Schedule a Glaucoma Screening Today

To schedule a glaucoma screening or to learn about any of the ophthalmology services we offer, we encourage you to contact us today.  Our offices are located in Winchester, serving Virginia, West Virginia and Maryland. Book your appointment at (540) 722-6200.  We look forward to seeing you.

Source: http://www.seeclear.com/blog/glaucoma/top-5-myths-of-glaucoma

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Vast Majority of LASIK Patients Satisfied, Reports ESEC

LASIK, which stands for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, has become one of the most popular vision correction surgeries in the world, with thousands of procedures performed every year.  The numbers, however, don’t paint the whole picture.  A surgery’s true measure of success is how many patients are satisfied with their results!  The Eye Surgery Education Council (ESEC), a leading provider of eye surgery information, is reporting on just that.

“LASIK vision correction has the highest patient satisfaction rate of any elective surgery,” explains the ESEC, “95.4%, according to a 10-year survey of scientific studies from around the world.”  Clearly, this degree of patient satisfaction speaks volumes.  Furthermore, the ESEC reports that “In a recent study, about 97% of LASIK surgery patients said they would recommend it to a friend or relative.”  While LASIK is not for everyone and there are risks and benefits to consider, these figures certainly speak for themselves.

LASIK Results

So, what can LASIK do for you?  First, let’s take a look at the procedure itself.  LASIK eye surgery improves vision safely and precisely by reshaping the cornea to correct nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism.  The procedure is tailored to your specific medical needs.

Of course, the goal of every LASIK procedure is 20/20 vision.  Looking at one of the most common eye issues, nearsightedness, the ESEC reports that “Studies of mildly or moderately nearsighted patients show that one year after having LASIK surgery: 98% have obtained 20/20 vision.”  So, do you think LASIK may be right for you?  The only way to find out is to schedule a consultation!

LASIK Consultation

To schedule your LASIK consultation, contact us today.  Our offices are located in Winchester, serving Virginia, West Virginia and Maryland. Book your appointment at (540) 722-6200.  We look forward to working with you.

Source: http://www.seeclear.com/blog/lasik/vast-majority-of-lasik-patients-satisfied-reports-esec

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American Diabetes Month® | The Importance of Comprehensive Eye Exams

November marks the start of the American Diabetes Month®, an event sponsored by the American Diabetes Foundation®.  A leading cause of blindness among adults, ExamHealth reports on something that every diabetes patient should be thinking about this time of year:  a comprehensive eye exam.

“The American Optometric Association (AOA) is reminding Americans with diabetes about the importance of scheduling annual, dilated comprehensive eye exams to help detect and even prevent eye and vision disorders that could lead to blindness,” explains ExamHealth.  “Each year, 12,000 to 24,000 individuals lose their sight because of diabetes.”  An all-too-common condition in the US, the American Diabetes Foundation reports that nearly 26 million Americans are living with the condition.

What’s more, “The AOA notes that the results from its 2012 American Eye-Q® consumer survey revealed that only 44% of Americans are aware that diabetic eye disease often has no visual signs or symptoms,” reports ExamHealth.  “Additionally, 43% of Americans are unaware that a person with diabetes should have a comprehensive eye exam once a year.”

Not sure what you should be looking out for?  Read on!

Diabetes and Your Eye Health

So, why are comprehensive eye exams so important for those living with diabetes?  The answer is simple – those with diabetes are at a significantly higher risk for developing several of today’s most serious eye conditions.  Here’s a brief introduction:

• Glaucoma: Glaucoma is an eye disorder characterized by an increased pressure in the eye.  A leading cause of blindness in the US, glaucoma is a progressive condition that causes a gradual loss of vision.  And, while there is no cure, glaucoma can often be treated with eye drops and certain other medications.   In some cases, we treat the condition with lasers or surgery.  A condition where early detection is everything, diabetes sufferers need to be even more vigilant when it comes to regular glaucoma screenings.
• Cataracts: You can think of a cataract as a clouding of the eye’s lens.  A progressive condition, cataracts can ultimately affect one’s ability to see clearly.  Most common among older patients, those with diabetes are also at an elevated risk for developing the condition.  When it comes to treatment, patients will often benefit from Cataract Surgery.  During the procedure, the eye’s natural lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens also known as an Intraocular Lens (IOL).
• Diabetic Retinopathy: Diabetic retinopathy is a condition that weakens the blood vessels that supply nourishment to the retina.  This is the light-sensitive lining in the back of the eye where vision is focused. As these vessels leak, swell or develop thin branches, vision loss can ultimately occur. Our practice offers comprehensive Diabetic Eye Care including routine eye exams.

Schedule Your Eye Exam Today

Make sure you schedule your comprehensive eye exam this November!  Our offices are located in in Winchester, serving Virginia, West Virginia and Maryland, and you can reach us directly at (540) 722-6200.  Contact us today.

Source: http://www.seeclear.com/blog/eye-heath/american-diabetes-month%c2%ae-the-importance-of-comprehensive-eye-exams

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Aero-Medical Retrieval Education

Source: http://adventuredoc.net/2012/05/25/aero-medical-retrieval-education/

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The ONC’s Kevin Larsen on Meaningful Use

More highlights from Health IT Week: Kevin Larsen, MD, medical director of meaningful use for the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT, sat down with the Center for Total Health blog and answered a few questions about meaningful use. The video below captures that conversation.

The term “meaningful use” represents the set of standards outlined by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Incentive Programs that governs the use of electronic health records and allows eligible health care providers to earn incentive payments by meeting specific criteria. For more detail on the incentive programs, check out the CMS website.

Source: http://centerfortotalhealth.org/2012/the-oncs-kevin-larsen-on-meaningful-use/

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Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. According to the CDC, 210,203 women in the United States were diagnosed with breast cancer, and 40,589 women died from the disease, in 2008 (the latest year for which statistics are available). With the exception of skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women.

Breast cancer screening can often lead to earlier detection and treatment of the disease. Most health insurance companies pay for the cost of breast screening tests.  For those people worried about the cost, the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) offers free or low-cost mammograms and education about breast cancer.  You can find out if you qualify here.

In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we are sharing a story of a breast cancer survivor.  Kathleen Tebb, a 39-year-old mother of two children, was diagnosed and had a mastectomy followed by aggressive treatment, including radiation.  With the help of physical therapy, Kathleen was eventually able to resume one of her passions—rock climbing.  Read more about Kathleen’s story here, and check out an interview with her below.

 

For more stories from breast cancer survivors, check out the latest posts on Kaiser Permanente’s Care Stories Blog.

Source: http://centerfortotalhealth.org/2012/breast-cancer-awareness-month/

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Baltimore Eye Surgeon Now Performing Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery

Baltimore, MD – According to the Administration on Aging (AOA), persons 65 and older represented nearly 13% of the U.S. population in 2009, and are expected to represent 19% by 2030. The Bureau of Labor Statistics finds that the number of older Americans in the workforce is growing as well. As the population and workforce ages, Baltimore eye surgeon Jay C. Grochmal, MD says his patients that are late stage baby-boomers are under extreme pressure to maintain a high level of performance in the workplace, and portraying a vivacious and youthful appearance is essential to continued success.

While helping patients improve their vision with procedures such as LASIK and cataract surgery is important to success in the workplace, Dr. Grochmal says the desire to help his patients enhance their aesthetic appearance has become an important part of his practice as well. He says this growing demand for increased confidence and a natural-looking enhancement is what led him to the decision to add cosmetic eyelid surgery to his list of procedures: “Our society places such a high value on appearance and equates a youthful look with the likelihood of business and social success. Baby boomers are still very active and productive and a refreshed look can eliminate unwarranted bias in career choices.”

As the number of cosmetic procedures performed in the U.S. continues to increase, Dr. Grochmal says the desire to look younger longer is obvious, adding that a tough economy and high unemployment rate further contribute to the stress his older patients must endure. Because he constantly strives to improve patient care while providing the latest and safest procedures, Dr. Grochmal says providing cosmetic treatments for his patients is a result of his original commitment to provide the most effective treatments available to meet any and all needs of his patients: “As the cliche goes now, 50 is the new 40 and 60 is the new 50, and so on. My patients want to look as young as they feel and be able to see well too. Ultimately, we believe providing cosmetic eyelid surgery will improve their chances of success in the workplace.”

About Jay C. Grochmal, MD

After earning his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Dr. Jay C. Grochmal completed his residency while achieving the rank of Chief Resident at the Greater Baltimore Medical Center’s Department of Ophthalmology. In addition to being on staff at some of the leading hospitals in the Baltimore area, Dr. Grochmal has traveled on a number of missions dedicated to improving eye care around the world.

Grochmal Eye Center is located in the Catonsville Professional Center at 405 Frederick Rd., Ste. 102, Baltimore, MD 21228, and can be reached at (410) 697-4090. Dr. Grochmal and his team can also be reached at grochmaleye.com or their Baltimore Eye Care Facebook page.

Source: http://www.grochmaleye.com/oculoplastic/baltimore-eye-surgeon-now-performing-cosmetic-eyelid-surgery/

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Laugh More

I remember reading some years ago that children laugh somewhere around 300 – 400 times a day.  In the same article it said that adults laugh as little as 15 times a day.  Wow, that is a huge difference.  To me it is sad statement that as we grow older we “lose” (or maybe we stifle) our ability to laugh.  Me, I love to laugh.  I don’t think that I am quite up to 300 laughs a day…but I get in about 100 a day.  I believe that laughter is beneficial and extremely healing.  I believe that it can be very therapeutic…not only for yourself, but those around you.

Dr. Richard Schulze said in an interview once that he encouraged his patients to learn 1,000 jokes as part of their healing process.  While you might think this to be a tedious and unneccesary task to learn so many jokes, why not instead think of the laughter his patients got from taking on the assignment.  While learning 1,000 jokes do you think their minds were focused on their illness or on laughter?  I’m guessing that they were focused on laughing. 

In his groundbreaking book, “Anatomy Of An Illness”, Norman Cousins describes how he started watching “The 3 Stooges” on a daily basis to “activate” his sense of humor and “regain” his laugh. 

 There is power in laughter.  I encourage you to laugh more every day.  I encourage you to make those around you laugh whenever you can.

Yours In Health!

G.E. Moon II

 

 

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Source: http://www.abundanthealthcenter.com/blog/laugh-more

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Federal Government Questions Legality Of Certain ASC-Service Provider Arrangements

Recently, the Office of Inspector General (OIG) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services issued an advisory opinion regarding two types of Proposed Arrangements between an anesthesia provider (AP) and physician-owned ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs). This came as a result of a request for an opinion from an AP who, because of competitive market pressures, was considering one of two new business relationship models. Under the AP’s current professional arrangement, the ap offers exclusive anesthesia services to ASCs, employs personnel to meet the anesthesia needs of the ASCs, and independently bills patients and third party payors, including Medicare, for professional fees. The ASCs bill the same parties for professional services plus a facility fee for materials and ancillary staff.

• Under Proposed Arrangement A, the AP would continue to provide exclusive anesthesia services to the ASC and to bill independently. Additionally, the AP would pay a market value “management services” fee to the ASC for each non-Federally funded patient. The ASC would both collect this fee and continue to charge a facility fee to Federal and third party payors.
• Under Proposed Arrangement B, the ASC physician-owners would set up a separate subsidiary to exclusively provide anesthesia services to their patients. The subsidiary then would hire the AP as the exclusive independent anesthesia services contractor, handle all billing with the assistance of the AP and its staff, pay the AP out of fees collected, and retain any profits.

In analyzing the legality of the two arrangements, the OIG considered two questions: 1. Does either arrangement violate the Federal anti-kickback statute, and, 2. Would any safe harbor protection apply?

Under the anti-kickback statute, it is a criminal offense to offer, pay, solicit, or receive any remuneration for referrals reimbursable by a Federal health care program. This statute seeks to ensure that referrals are based on sound medical judgment and not financial or other incentives. Regarding Proposed Arrangement A, although the AP would pay a management services fee only for non-Federal health care program patients, this does not reduce the risk that the fee might be paid by the AP to induce referrals from the ASC of all types of patients. Additionally, the arrangement allows the ASC to be paid twice for the same services, and this could unduly influence the ASC to select the AP as the exclusive provider. The OIG concluded that Proposed Arrangement A could violate the anti-kickback statute. No safe harbor protections apply.

Safe harbor protections for ASCs, employment, and personal services and management contracts were determined to not apply to Proposed Arrangement B. The Subsidiary does not qualify as a Medicare-certified ASC because it would not provide surgical services, only anesthesia services. As such, its income and the profits distributed to the ASC physician-owners would not be protected by any safe harbor provisions. Additionally, the OIG is concerned about exclusive arrangements between those who refer business (the ASC physician-owners), and those who furnish goods or services reimbursed by a Federal health care program (the AP). The AP and the ASC physician-owners both would benefit financially in Proposed Arrangement B, with the AP receiving its negotiated rate and the physician-owners receiving residual profits from the subsidiary after expenses and payment to the AP. The OIG concluded that Proposed Arrangement B would permit the physician-owners to receive compensation in the form of profits from the subsidiary from referring patients to the AP; this payment would be for services that they themselves could not provide. The more than minimal risk of fraud and abuse and the prohibited remuneration both would be in violation of the Federal anti-kickback statute.

Physicians should be aware of this development, as it may affect current and future professional relationships. A health care attorney can offer assistance in interpreting the potential impact of the OIG decision and evaluating the need to restructure business arrangements.

Source: http://www.pagingdrblog.com/2012/07/18/federal-government-questions-legality-of-certain-asc-service-provider-arrangements/

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So, What Is Presbyopia?

A lot of people have heard the term Presbyopia before, but not everyone knows the whole story.  While the word may sound  complicated, the condition is actually quite simple to understand.  Presbyopia is a change in our eyes’ ability to focus on close objects.  This change is a natural part of the aging process, and it usually presents itself when folks are in their 40s.

Common signs of presbyopia include:

• Blurry vision when focusing on close-up objects
• Trouble reading small print, especially in low light
• Holding objects far away from the face to see them better
• Headaches

So, why does presbyopia happen?  The lens of the eye is responsible for keeping objects in focus.  The unique flexibility of the lens allows us to focus on distant objects as well as close-up objects.   Presbyopia occurs when this soft lens begins to harden, reducing its flexibility and hindering the eye’s ability to focus on nearby objects.

Thankfully, there are many things we can do about it.  Read on to find out a few ways we treat presbyopia today.

Presbyopia Treatments

For some patients, eyeglasses or contact lenses may be enough to combat their presbyopia symptoms.  In more serious cases, or for those wishing to avoid corrective lenses, modern ophthalmology offers a few  solutions.

Here are two of the most common ways we treat presbyopia today:

• CK Surgery: CK Surgery for Presbyopia, also known as Conductive Keratoplasty, is a non-invasive, non-laser treatment.  Instead of a scalpel, a CK procedure uses radio-frequency energy to reshape the cornea and change the way the eye focuses light.
• Presbyopic IOL: A Presbyopic IOL is a replacement lens aimed at total vision correction.  These IOLs, such as the ReSTOR® Multifocal Lens, are implanted through a safe procedure similar to that of a cataract patient.  Furthermore, presbyopic IOLs have the added benefit of preventing cataracts from developing in the future, as the natural lens is completely replaced.

Ophthalmologist in Winchester

To learn more about presbyopia treatment or to schedule an appointment at our Winchester Ophthalmology Offices, we encourage you to contact us today.  We can be reached at (540) 722-6200 and look forward to meeting you soon.

Source: http://www.seeclear.com/blog/presbyopia/so-what-is-presbyopia

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What to expect when considering LASIK

If you’ve ever considered LASIK here in Dallas / Fort Worth, the first thought might have been, “what can I expect?” Like a lot of medical procedures, LASIK surgery has advanced and improved over the years. Today, LASIK is allowing more patients to become less dependent on glasses or contact lenses. It’s not uncommon for our patients to tell us, “my eyesight is better without glasses than it was with glasses before I had surgery.”

Here is a shortlist of the most important things to expect:

1. A thorough examination to see if you’re a LASIK candidate. First, you must be 18 or older to have it performed. People well into their 40’s can be LASIK candidates as well. Age, vision health, and overall health can make a difference.

2. For your doctor to tell you everything you need to know. LASIK has become safer, more effective, and with faster recovery times. Still, LASIK is a surgical procedure, which is why your doctor should shoot straight with you (as ours do) about the benefits and any potential complications. This includes taking the time to answer your questions and listen to your concerns.

3. Skill, experience, and advanced technology. Phillips Kirk Labor, MD is known locally here in metro Dallas, and internationally, as a LASIK innovator, but also for his devotion to each patient’s well being. He uses an advanced procedure called iLASIK, which combines the Intralase IFS Femtosecond Laser with VISX technology. iLASIK was designed to improve results, but also safety, and patient comfort (an added comfort is that we perform the entire procedure in our office).

4. Mild, temporary post-surgery discomfort. The procedure itself involves very minimal or no discomfort, and takes only a few minutes. After surgery, a mild scratchiness, burning or itching is normal, which quickly improves as the eyes adjust and heal. We tell our patients to immediately get rest and use special eye drops we prescribe to speed the healing process.

5. Better vision. Our patients generally see better right after surgery, which continually improves as the days progress. LASIK isn’t permanent, and results can vary. But most every LASIK patient can enjoy clear vision for many years. This is why every LASIK procedure starts with a thorough examination – to ensure the best outcome, but also to inform you of everything that will happen.

There is much more our doctors can tell you about what to expect. If you’re considering LASIK, please call our Metro Dallas offices in Grapevine at 877-516-4364 to learn more and read what other patients have to say.

 

Source: http://www.eyectexas.com/blog/dallas-lasik-fort-worth/

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Dr. Bruce Alpert, DC , Flushing, NY, 11355

Website Address: 

Dr. Bruce Alpert's Practice Website

Dr. Bruce Alpert's Blog

Dr. Bruce Alpert's Website

Phone: 

(718) 463-0006

Fax: 

718-460-2936

Source: http://www.spine-health.com/doctor/chiropractor/bruce-alpert-flushing-ny

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CMS To Discontinue Second Overpayment Notice

As any physician knows, handling Medicare and Medicaid payments can be a very complex and time consuming process.  As a result, many physicians, through no fault of their own, occasionally overcharge Medicare and Medicaid.  To recoup such overpayments, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) administers the Medicare Overpayment Notification Process.  Until recently, where an alleged overpayment has not been promptly resolved and refunded, CMS would send physicians a series of three letters: an Initial Demand Letter, a Follow-up-Letter 30 days later, and then an Intent to Refer Letter.  However, CMS recently determined that the second letter was unnecessary because a substantial number of physicians responded promptly to the Initial Demand Letter with a payment.  In addition, a recoupment action occurs on average 41 days after the initial letter, and that action is accompanied with another notice regarding the overpayment. 

Thus, it is important for physicians to respond to the Initial Demand Letter in order to avoid further complications such as a referral to a debt collector.  In fact, if an overpayment is not resolved within 90 days of the Initial Demand Letter, CMS will provide a notice of intention to refer the debt for collection.

 

Source: http://www.pagingdrblog.com/2012/03/12/cms-to-discontinue-second-overpayment-notice/

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Private Practice Or Hospital Employment?

According to data released by Medscape Medical News, physician employment by hospitals has increased since 2000.  This increase is partly due to the protection that working for a large entity affords a physician.  Many physicians feel that they can truly focus upon their specialized field by working in a hospital environment, as opposed to opening a private practice.    

Working for a hospital relieves the physician of trying to keep up with complex private health care insurance and government regulations, investing in medical equipment and technology, marketing and HR issues.  While owning a private practice gives a physician more independence and the physician is not constrained by the hospital’s policies or procedures, the private-practice physician must be concerned with all the business issues, which could be undertaken by a hospital employer. 

It seems the current  trend is leaning toward more physicians choosing to work for a hospital, with the private-practice physician becoming rare.  But, as Uwe Reinhardt, Ph.D., a healthcare economist at Princeton University, told Medscape, “Don’t forget, there are cycles.  Some years from now, there will be a whole new trend.  Physicians working in hospitals will see what is profitable and what is not, and will jump out and establish practices in the profitable things.”

Meiselman, Denlea, Packman, Carton & Eberz P.C. offers legal advice to physicians on medical issues.  If you need legal assistance or guidance on a matter regarding your practice, please call our office.

Source: http://www.pagingdrblog.com/2012/04/12/private-practice-or-hospital-employment/

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Aero-Medical Retrieval Education

Source: http://adventuredoc.net/2012/05/25/aero-medical-retrieval-education/

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Walk to School Day: Taking Steps Toward Improved Physical Activity

Tomorrow—Wednesday, October 3—is International Walk to School Day.

Since 1997, communities and schools have been using International Walk to School Day as an opportunity to change community culture and create options for getting around that foster greater physical activity and are more inviting for people of all ages. International Walk to School Day exposes children and their families to the benefits of walking and biking to school and encourages them to engage in these activities year-round.

Statistics show that children are less physically active today than ever before, with nearly one quarter of children getting no physical activity at all. In 1969, nearly half of all children in the U.S. walked or bicycled to and from school; today, that number has plummeted to 13 percent. Not coincidentally, rates of childhood obesity in the United States have increased dramatically in the past 40 years, and lack of physical activity for children has been identified as one of the key factors.

Each year, as part of its continuing commitment to building healthy communities, Kaiser Permanente physicians and employees engage in walk-to-school activities with families and students to mark Walk to School Day. This year, Kaiser Permanente and Safe Routes to School National Partnership will be teaming up on a series of events to increase awareness about the need for walkable and bikeable communities.

This year’s day of celebration holds added prominence for Kaiser Permanente with its recent announcement of expanded partnership with Safe Routes to School National Partnership that will help to bring walking and greater physical activity to school communities across the country.

For more information about International Walk to School Day as well as planning and outreach tools, visit the official website.

Source: http://centerfortotalhealth.org/2012/walk-to-school-day-taking-steps-toward-improved-physical-activity/

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Carrying Home Medication While Traveling

Source: http://adventuredoc.net/2011/08/15/carrying-home-medication-while-traveling/

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Functional – Movement – Kettlebells – CrossFit

Here is a great interview of the owner of, CrossFit Seattle – Dave Werner.  The interview was conducted by, Dr. Wendy Schauer, D.C., R.K.C. of – www.HappyNewYou.com.  The interview has many references to some of the leading researchers and their findings on how important “Functional Movement” is to over all health, especially back pain.  It also covers the role that the Russian Kettlebell can play in overall health and fitness.

Here is the link to the interview:

 http://happynewyou.com/interview-with-dave-werner-rkc-and-owner-of-crossfit-seattle

Yours In Health!

G.E. Moon II

 

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Source: http://www.abundanthealthcenter.com/blog/functional-movement-kettlebells-crossfit

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Simplifying LASIK Basics – Part 1: Starting Points

As we’ve mentioned here before, LASIK has become a household word to anyone relying on glasses or contact lenses for everyday things. There’s no shortage of info out there, and much of it can be confusing, or written like an owner’s manual. At Eye Consultants of Texas, we cover the bases in educating our Dallas/Fort Worth LASIK patients, and try to do this as simply as possible. With that in mind, this is the first in a series of blogs we’ll be posting to highlight the basics of LASIK, in hopes of putting LASIK medical-speak more into simple-speak.

First Things First. LASIK is a simple, painless procedure that can be performed quicker and safer than ever before, mostly thanks to technological advancements. LASIK is also surgery on your eyes, so you owe it to yourself to understand the benefits, risks, and everything else about it. And to choose a skilled doctor who’s on your side.

How Long Has LASIK Been Around? A question to this that often follows is, “how many LASIK procedures have been performed?” To answer this objectively, we’ll go to a reputable source. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), LASIK was first FDA-approved in 1998. Since then, the AAO estimates that nearly 10 million procedures have been performed in the U.S. (an average of 700,000 each year). Worldwide, this number is double by some estimates you might find.

Why Would Someone Get LASIK? People who have LASIK performed are usually those that have to rely on glasses or contact lenses for everyday activities. Sometimes they opt for LASIK so they can see better and look better, or simply because they’re tired of having to wear glasses all the time. Sometimes LASIK may be the best solution if corrective eyewear is no longer doing the trick. Whatever the reason, it’s important that your vision health and overall health checks out, that you’re fully informed, and that you’re over 18 years of age. In other words, you have to be a candidate for LASIK to have it done. If for any reason you’re not, there are other options your doctor can tell you about.

Look for more in our next Simplifying LASIK Basics blog coming soon. Meanwhile, if you’d like to know more about LASIK at Eye Consultants of Texas, please call our office in Grapevine at 877-516-4364, conveniently located to Dallas/Fort Worth.

This blog is a general overview of LASIK surgery for general informational purposes only, and in no way intended as actual medical advice. Always seek a medical or eye care professional for advisement based on your individual health and eye care needs. 

 

Source: http://www.eyectexas.com/blog/lasik-basics-part-1/

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Simplifying LASIK Basics – Part 1: Starting Points

As we’ve mentioned here before, LASIK has become a household word to anyone relying on glasses or contact lenses for everyday things. There’s no shortage of info out there, and much of it can be confusing, or written like an owner’s manual. At Eye Consultants of Texas, we cover the bases in educating our Dallas/Fort Worth LASIK patients, and try to do this as simply as possible. With that in mind, this is the first in a series of blogs we’ll be posting to highlight the basics of LASIK, in hopes of putting LASIK medical-speak more into simple-speak.

First Things First. LASIK is a simple, painless procedure that can be performed quicker and safer than ever before, mostly thanks to technological advancements. LASIK is also surgery on your eyes, so you owe it to yourself to understand the benefits, risks, and everything else about it. And to choose a skilled doctor who’s on your side.

How Long Has LASIK Been Around? A question to this that often follows is, “how many LASIK procedures have been performed?” To answer this objectively, we’ll go to a reputable source. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), LASIK was first FDA-approved in 1998. Since then, the AAO estimates that nearly 10 million procedures have been performed in the U.S. (an average of 700,000 each year). Worldwide, this number is double by some estimates you might find.

Why Would Someone Get LASIK? People who have LASIK performed are usually those that have to rely on glasses or contact lenses for everyday activities. Sometimes they opt for LASIK so they can see better and look better, or simply because they’re tired of having to wear glasses all the time. Sometimes LASIK may be the best solution if corrective eyewear is no longer doing the trick. Whatever the reason, it’s important that your vision health and overall health checks out, that you’re fully informed, and that you’re over 18 years of age. In other words, you have to be a candidate for LASIK to have it done. If for any reason you’re not, there are other options your doctor can tell you about.

Look for more in our next Simplifying LASIK Basics blog coming soon. Meanwhile, if you’d like to know more about LASIK at Eye Consultants of Texas, please call our office in Grapevine at 877-516-4364, conveniently located to Dallas/Fort Worth.

This blog is a general overview of LASIK surgery for general informational purposes only, and in no way intended as actual medical advice. Always seek a medical or eye care professional for advisement based on your individual health and eye care needs. 

 

Source: http://www.eyectexas.com/blog/lasik-basics-part-1/

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What is Natural Cycle IVF?

Conventional IVF Today’s conventional IVF is ‘stimulated’ – drugs are used to prompt the woman’s ovaries to produce several eggs, rather than just one. The eggs are mixed with her partner’s or a donor’s sperm to become fertilised. Women take a course of ovarian-suppression hormones to shut down their menstrual cycle to control ovulation. Then [...]

Source: http://www.createhealthclinics.org/blog/natural-cycle-ivf/what-is-natural-cycle-ivf/

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Using EHR Data to Measure Improvement: Interviews with Experts

During Health IT Week, an event held at the Center for Total Health—sponsored by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology, the National Quality Forum, and Kaiser Permanente— examined the state of electronic measurement in health care, lessons learned from the Beacon Community Program, and what’s next in meaningful use. While at the event, we were able to speak briefly with a few of the presenters about the topic. This video features interviews with Kevin Larsen, MD, Craig Brammer, and Kerri Petrin, all three of whom are with the ONC.

Source: http://centerfortotalhealth.org/2012/using-ehr-data-to-measure-improvement-interviews-with-experts/

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Clinical trials aid PSC diagnosis and treatment

Jayant A. Talwalkar, M.D., a hepatologist with the Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and the Mayo Clinic Transplant Center in Rochester, Minn., discusses diagnosis, complications, liver transplantation, and Mayo’s role in the development of new diagnostic tests and effective therapies for patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC).

Dr. Talwalkar notes that PSC is the last major liver disease without effective treatment. There is currently no effective medical therapy to halt disease progression and so avoid complications such as liver failure or bile duct cancer for patients with PSC. PCS is considered an autoimmune condition. It develops silently, most often in patients 40-50 years.

Dr. Talwalkar’s team focuses on clinical trials for the development of diagnostic tests and effective drug therapies for PSC, before transplant is needed. Mayo specialists see several hundred patients with PSC each year.

Clinical trials at Mayo Clinic
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC)

Research profiles
Jayant A. Talwalkar, M.D.

Source: http://physicianupdate.mayoclinic.org/2012/05/02/clinical-trials-aid-psc-diagnosis-and-treatment/

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