Monday, March 11, 2013

Books Feed Your Head

It’s true, books really do, “Feed Your Head”.  In 1991 there was an award winning MTV campaign that promoted reading.  It was a revolutionary, ground breaking, and cutting edge style of mixing literature with a short film.  This was when MTV still contained the word “music” in the logo, Tom Freston was the President and CEO of the network, the influence of Bob Pittman was still around, and it offered up value and creativity to viewers.  Unfortunately it seems those days have passed.

Because of this campaign to promote reading I was introduced to the works of Franz Kafka and more importantly the works of Donald Barthelme.  To me, Donald Barthelme is the master of the short story.  I read almost every single day.  I will admit that there are days when I am on vacation that I might miss the opportunity to read in exchange for the opportunity to explore a new city. 

Many years ago, Jim Rohn (author and personal development trainer) said, “If you read one book every month about your industry, in 10 years you’ll have read 120 books. That will put you in the top one percent of your field.”  Mr. Rohn was 100% correct and he was just talking about the lazy way to do it.  I once heard someone say, “Skip a meal, but never skip the opportunity to read.”  If you just invest 20 – 30 minutes a day in yourself, to read, there isn’t any reason that can’t read at least one book a week.  If you were to read one book a week that would mean at the end of year you would have read 52 books.  At this rate you would be in the top one percent in two years instead of 10. 

For myself, I find that reading in a 80/20 ratio works best for me.  Eighty percent of the books that I read are for knowledge and learning.  Twenty percent of the books that I read are for humor, pleasure, and escapism.  I would personally get bored if all I did was read for learning.  I also need to be entertained when I read. 

Please don’t tell me you don’t have enough time to read.  If you really don’t think that you have the time to read…then I suggest that you at least make the time to read, “The 168 Hour Week” by, Dr. Kevin Hogan.

 

 

You can find the time to read.  You just have to do it.  I truly believe that reading is a great exercise that you can and should do for your brain everyday to keep it healthy and active.  Think of your brain as muscle…exercise it and make it grow.  The dividends that it will pay you can be huge.

If you’re looking for a new author to read or you want to start reading a new genere of books, then I suggest you take a look at the works of Thorne Smith.  You can find out more about Thorne Smith at the blog and and website created by, Michael Walker at   http://www.thornesmithblog.com/

Grab a book and start reading today.  Remember, “Books Feed Your Head”.

Yours In Health!

G.E. Moon II

 

Source: http://www.abundanthealthcenter.com/blog/booksfeedyourhead

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Mayo Clinic study finds that cardiac rehab reduces mortality by 45 percent

Randal J. Thomas, M.D., director of Mayo Clinic’s Cardiovascular Health Clinic, and colleagues found that patients who participate in cardiac rehabilitation after having heart interventions such as angioplasty, stents and clot-busting drugs have a 45 percent lower mortality rate.

The research team studied data from more than 2,300 patients between 1994 and 2008, and recently published the results in Circulation 

Only about 40 percent of patients in the study participated in cardiac rehabilitation. These findings are particularly important for interventional cardiologists, Dr. Thomas says, because encouraging patients to pursue cardiac rehab after their procedure can potentially save more lives than previously thought.

Authors: Kashish Goel, M.B.B.S.; Ryan J. Lennon, M.S.; R. Thomas Tilbury, M.D.; Ray W. Squires, PhD; Randal J. Thomas, M.D., M.S.

Source: http://physicianupdate.mayoclinic.org/2012/04/03/mayo-clinic-study-finds-that-cardiac-rehab-reduces-mortality-by-45-percent/

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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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Blog changes

Source: http://adventuredoc.net/2012/01/21/blog-changes/

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Adventure Medicine Magazine

Source: http://adventuredoc.net/2012/09/15/adventure-medicine-magazine/

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Sunday, March 10, 2013

Legionnaires’ disease in Quebec City – 40 sick and 3 deaths

An outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease in Quebec is the largest since 1995. The disease, known also as legion fever, is caused by bacteria that thrive in warm temperatures and can breed in the stagnant water of cooling towers, before being disseminated by the mist released from the system.

Legionnaires’ disease can also thrive in the supply systems of showers and Jacuzzis if the water supply is not kept at a sufficiently high temperature.

Travellers with respiratory symptoms who have used Jacuzzis or showers during their travels, or visited areas where there is known disease should consult their medical practitioners.

Source: ProMed Newsgroup

For further advice, contact the Globe Travel Health Centre on 01603 667323

Source: http://www.globetravelhealthcentre.com/travel-advice/legionnaires%e2%80%99-disease-in-quebec-city-%e2%80%93-40-sick-and-3-deaths.html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=legionnaires%25e2%2580%2599-disease-in-quebec-city-%25e2%2580%2593-40-sick-and-3-deaths

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Standardized RSI protocol

Source: http://adventuredoc.net/2012/12/23/standardized-rsi-protocol/

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The flu season has now started!!

Winter flu outbreak has now started – and it looks as though it may be a much worse season than last year.

Just as a couple of winters ago, children seem to be catching flu as well.

Globe Travel Health Centre has stocks of flu vaccine, and will also vaccinate the under 16s…

For further advice, contact the Globe Travel Health Centre on 01603 667323

Source: http://www.globetravelhealthcentre.com/travel-advice/the-flu-season-has-now-started.html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-flu-season-has-now-started

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It’s World Diabetes Day

In honor of World Diabetes Day, Kaiser Permanente’s Care Stories blog is highlighting stories of patients dealing with the disease. You can view all the stories here. The video below is about a physician who was surprised to find out she was diabetic, herself. Now she says her diagnosis is helping her be a better doctor for her patients.

Learn more about diabetes—including risk factors, warning signs, prevention and treatment—at the International Diabetes Federation website.

Source: http://centerfortotalhealth.org/2012/its-world-diabetes-day/

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Welcome to Our Blog

Hello and welcome to the blog for Grochmal Eye Center! We’ve created this resource to assist our patients who are considering vision correction. Our goal is to provide you with information about the latest technology and procedures in vision care. Our blog will also serve as a forum for patients to learn about their surgical options from our Baltimore, Maryland Ophthalmologist, Dr. Jay C. Grochmal.

Source: http://www.grochmaleye.com/uncategorized/hello-world/

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Dry Eyes in the Winter Months

The cold dry air that is common in the winter months can have adverse effects on the moisture in your eyes.  But what many people may not realize is that your eyes can become just as dry while trying to keep warm inside.  The heat produced in our homes is a very common cause of not only dry skin, but dry eyes as well.  By taking a few simple precautions — both inside and outside — you can ensure that dry and itchy eyes are avoided.  In most cases, dry eyes are caused by the quick evaporation of moisture from our tear ducts.  In dry weather, hot or cold, this can occur quickly and cause itching and dryness that is very uncomfortable.

Take Steps to Keep your Eyes Moist

Artificial Tears – Using artificial tears as directed can help keep your eyes moist when your tear ducts may not be able to keep up with the dryness of the air.
Sunglasses – Wearing sunglasses when out in the cold weather can shield them from direct contact with the cold dry air particularly when it is windy.
Humidifiers – When indoors, use a humidifier to make the environment less dry.  Indoor heat can dry the air, making your natural moisture dry up faster than usual.
Cut down on coffee – Qe already drink more warm liquids during the winter months in order to warm up, but coffee is a mild diuretic that can cause dryness in your eyes and skin.  Monitoring your coffee consumption may aid in keeping your eyes more moist.

By making sure that your eyes are moist at all times, you can experience less discomfort while both inside and outside during the winter.

Do you have more questions?

If you feel you’re experiencing Chronic Dry Eye, and would like more information on treatment, we encourage you to contact us today.  Dry eye is a common condition especially in the colder seasons, and we can work together to find the best treatment options for you.  Our offices are located in Winchester, serving Virginia, West Virginia and Maryland.  We can be reached at (540) 722-6200.  Call today to make an appointment.

Source: http://www.seeclear.com/blog/dry-eye-carerestasis/dry-eyes-in-the-winter-months

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Saturday, March 9, 2013

Mayo Clinic study finds that cardiac rehab reduces mortality by 45 percent

Randal J. Thomas, M.D., director of Mayo Clinic’s Cardiovascular Health Clinic, and colleagues found that patients who participate in cardiac rehabilitation after having heart interventions such as angioplasty, stents and clot-busting drugs have a 45 percent lower mortality rate.

The research team studied data from more than 2,300 patients between 1994 and 2008, and recently published the results in Circulation 

Only about 40 percent of patients in the study participated in cardiac rehabilitation. These findings are particularly important for interventional cardiologists, Dr. Thomas says, because encouraging patients to pursue cardiac rehab after their procedure can potentially save more lives than previously thought.

Authors: Kashish Goel, M.B.B.S.; Ryan J. Lennon, M.S.; R. Thomas Tilbury, M.D.; Ray W. Squires, PhD; Randal J. Thomas, M.D., M.S.

Source: http://physicianupdate.mayoclinic.org/2012/04/03/mayo-clinic-study-finds-that-cardiac-rehab-reduces-mortality-by-45-percent/

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Blocked fallopian tubes – successful Natural IVF

Claudia*, 35, already had a child after aggressive, conventional IVF, and wanted another. However, because she had blocked tubes, she needed IVF. She was exhausted after her conventional IVF and said “never again”! It had been very aggressive IVF, had cost her nearly £9000 and she had lots of unpleasant side effects. She had never [...]

Source: http://www.createhealthclinics.org/blog/natural-cycle-ivf/blocked-fallopian-tubes-successful-natural-ivf/

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Reducing our Environmental Impact to Create Healthy Communities

Note: Today we have a guest blog post from Bernard Tyson, president and chief operating officer of Kaiser Foundation Hospitals, Inc., and Kaiser Foundation Health Plan. He recently wrote about Kaiser Permanente’s work to reduce its environmental footprint – not just as an business imperative, but as a core strategy for improving the health of its members and the communities it serves. Read more about Bernard Tyson through his bio in the Kaiser Permanente News Center.


There is little disagreement that greenhouse gas emissions, which are known contributors to climate change, have led to a rise in pollution and adverse health impacts. In fact, the World Health Organization estimates that urban air pollution causes about 1.2 million deaths per year and exacerbates cardiovascular and respiratory illnesses, particularly in sensitive populations like the elderly and young and in minority communities that are disproportionately impacted by urban and industrial activities.

Ironically, the health care industry – responsible for preventing and treating these types of illnesses – also contributes to the problem. According to a study by the University of Chicago, 8 percent of the total carbon emissions in the United States are attributable to health care activities. Not surprisingly, hospitals are by far the largest carbon emitters due in large part to strict requirements for temperature control, ventilation and lighting, and, of course, 24/7 operations.

Compounding the problem is the fact that many hospitals and health care facilities were built decades ago and have not been remodeled to use energy more efficiently. This is a similar situation to many government-owned buildings across the country. Late last year President Obama announced a multi-billion dollar government and private sector commitment to finance building renovations to make government-owned properties more energy efficient, and to create jobs in the process. The energy performance contracts proposed by the federal government, with improvements paid for by energy savings, are similar to those being used by schools, colleges and municipalities.

Given that the health care industry in America has nearly 600,000 facilities – and many of their workforces are equal in size to large government agencies (Kaiser Permanente’s workforce, for example, is of similar size as the U.S. Department of Homeland Security), health care organizations have a real opportunity to adopt sustainable business practices that reduce emissions, increase energy efficiency and the use of clean energy. This in turn will better protect public health and create jobs, achieving results that are in line with our focus on wellness and prevention, and helping grow the economy.

In January, Kaiser Permanente set an aggressive business strategy of reducing our greenhouse gas emissions by 30 percent by 2020, as compared to 2008 levels. To achieve this goal, we are adopting sustainable energy measures, both related to the construction of new facilities and the upgrading of existing facilities, such as installing new lights and window-film installations. These measures will not only reduce the impact of our operations on the environment, but are expected to save roughly $1 million per year in energy costs as well, which is good news for our members.

We are also investing in clean energy sources, such as deploying solar energy and fuel cell generation capacity at facilities throughout California.  In Maryland and the District of Columbia, we are purchasing renewable energy credits to offset 100 percent of our carbon intensive activities in those markets.

And Kaiser Permanente is not alone. Last year for Earth Day, Digital Health committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and energy use, and increasing sourcing of power to green energy. The University of California at San Francisco has also established a robust sustainability strategy to reduce carbon emissions with an ultimate goal of becoming climate neutral.

I hope these climate change commitments are just the beginning for our industry. Together, we have an opportunity – and a responsibility – to help prevent climate related illnesses and improve the health of our communities.

Source: http://centerfortotalhealth.org/2012/tyson-healthy-communities/

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Reflections on World AIDS Day with Michael Horberg, MD

World AIDS Day is Dec. 1; this year’s theme is ‘Working Together for an AIDS-Free Generation’

Michael Horberg, MD, is Kaiser Permanente’s national director for HIV/AIDS. Appointed to Obama’s Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS in 2010, Dr. Horberg hopes to make Kaiser Permanente’s best practices a part of national policy. Practicing at Michael Reese and Northwestern Memorial hospitals in the Chicago area for 10 years before coming to California, he has spent most of his medical career in the fight against the disease. He also is chair of the board of directors of the HIV Medicine Association, an organization of 5,000 HIV clinicians in the U.S. and abroad.  We caught up with him recently about his work in this field.

CTH Blog:
You’ve been committed to the fight against AIDS/HIV for three decades. What has this journey been like for you?

Michael Horberg, MD:
Professionally, the journey has been extraordinarily rewarding. It has led to a career in advanced HIV care, research and advocacy, with leadership in the HIV Medicine Association, as well as previously the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association. I know I’m a better doctor because of my work in HIV — the continuing education, learning new research and new medications/treatments daily, and the phenomenal collaborations with my Kaiser Permanente colleagues.

On a personal level, the last three decades have also been quite a journey. In the early 1980s, when the first patients infected by the HIV virus were being treated, I was in my third year of medical school. I knew I was gay, but I wasn’t ready for anyone else to know that. It was the fear of rejection, the fear of being ostracized, even in the medical community, of not being able to attract any patients. Ironically, the onset of the AIDS crisis is what finally helped to liberate me. As patients with HIV symptoms, including some of my close friends, began coming to me in private practice, I realized stepping out of the closet would help them get the care they needed and allow me to be a more powerful advocate for specialized care. Furthermore, being able to help my gay and lesbian brothers and sisters fulfilled my desire to meld technical skill with compassion. Especially early in the crisis when there was a limit for what we could do for patients, really caring, really showing love was critical.

CTH Blog:
What continues to motivate you in the fight against HIV/AIDS?

MH:
It’s been more than three decades since AIDS was first reported and the statistics of the epidemic still continue to haunt me. Every day, more than 150 people in the United States become infected with HIV. That adds up to between 50,000 and 56,000 people a year – just in the United States. And racial and ethnic minorities in gay and bisexual men are disproportionately impacted by this epidemic. About half of the nation’s HIV population is African-American – yet African-Americans have a 15 percent greater chance of dying from HIV than white Americans. This is a disease of disparities.

Until we no longer have an epidemic, I will continue to be motivated.

CTH Blog:
At the International AIDS Conference Washington D.C this summer, of which Kaiser Permanente was a key sponsor, there was a lot of discussion about an AIDS-free generation. Do you think that’s possible?

MH:
Yes, there is great hope. It can be achievable, but it requires resources, increased research, and increased access to quality HIV care for all living with HIV. I am proud to support the concept of an AIDS-free generation and working towards that goal. As a leader in HIV treatment, what we are doing at Kaiser Permanente and the tools and research we can share with the world, it’s entirely possible.

CTH Blog:
How has Kaiser Permanente been a leader in HIV treatment?

MH:
Kaiser Permanente has an outstanding record of successful HIV clinical care outcomes. Our care teams have treated more than 60,000 people and have reduced disparities among its current HIV population of approximately 20,000 people by working to meet or exceed the objectives of the U.S. National HIV/AIDS Strategy. We also have an outstanding record of successful HIV clinical care outcomes. Such as:

  • HIV mortality rates that are half the national average
  • 94 percent median treatment adherence among KP patients that are regularly in care and on antiretroviral therapy
  • No disparities among Kaiser Permanente’s African-American and Latino HIV-positive patients for both mortality and medication rates, compared to a 15 percent higher rate in the U.S. for mortality and medication
  • 89 percent of Kaiser Permanente’s HIV-positive patients are in HIV-specific care within 90 days, compared to 50 percent in the U.S. within one year
  • 69 percent of Kaiser Permanente’s HIV-positive patients have maximal viral control compared to 19-35 percent nationally

CTH Blog:
And how does this knowledge help other health care providers?

MH:
We started by challenging them. Earlier this year, the organization challenged all health care providers nationwide to follow its lead and improve the health equity for people living with HIV by sharing a toolkit of clinical best practices, tools, mentoring, training and health IT expertise (kp.org/hivchallenge).

We also reach out to our communities through grants. This year, Kaiser Permanente announced several grants for community organizations to continue their work on HIV/AIDS care and prevention.

In May 2012, Kaiser Permanente committed $2 million to award to eight community health organizations focusing on eliminating racial and ethnic disparities in health care and health outcomes, specifically related to HIV disease. The first four recipients will be announced later this year. Furthermore, we’ve also had significant grants in our Northern California, Southern California and Colorado regions. The organizations awarded grants were chosen specifically for having innovative approaches to preventing new HIV infections; identifying HIV positive patients sooner and connecting them with high quality HIV care; and reducing disparities among minority populations — particularly gay, African-American, youth and Latino — disproportionately impacted by HIV disease.

CTH Blog:
And we reach out to students and youth across the country as well, correct?

MH:
Yes! For more than two decades, Kaiser Permanente has been reaching out to millions of youth about HIV prevention through our Educational Theatre Program. In the early 1980s when many organizations were uneasy about talking about sexual behavior and prevention of HIV to adolescents, Kaiser Permanente wasn’t. In 1989, Kaiser Permanente’s Northern California ETP created the live production “Secrets,” aimed at educating young people about the growing epidemic. Since 1989, it’s been shown to 1.5 million youth in Northern California alone. Almost all of our theater programs, which serve communities where Kaiser Permanente is present in eight states and the District of Columbia, have adopted a production dealing with HIV prevention in one way or another. We continuously work with educators, community groups and Kaiser Permanente physicians, to update our productions to meet the needs of our communities.

CTH Blog:
World AIDS Day is just around the corner. What do you hope people reflect on Dec. 1?

MH:
I hope on World AIDS Day people reinvigorate themselves to meeting the challenge of fighting HIV. But I also hope they take the opportunity to show love — for themselves, and for those impacted by HIV. This isn’t the end, but at least we can envision the end realistically now.

Source: http://centerfortotalhealth.org/2012/reflections-on-world-aids-day-with-michael-horberg-md/

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A nurse practitioner-directed intervention improves the quality of life of patients with metastatic cancer

Gerardo Colon-Otero, M.D., with the Department of Hematology/Oncology at Mayo Clinic in Florida, discusses results of a randomized pilot study that show that an intervention that explains the benefits of hospice and addresses advanced directives early in the course of treatment leads to measurable improvement in the patient’s emotional and mental quality of life (QoL).

The study was published in the Journal of Palliative Medicine online ahead of print on May 4, 2012.

ABSTRACT
Background
There is a paucity of randomized studies evaluating the value of palliative interventions on a prospective basis in newly diagnosed oncology patients. We sought to prospectively evaluate quality of life (QoL) outcomes in advanced cancer patients who received discussion-based palliative care interventions from an advanced registered nurse practitioner (ARNP) integrated into the oncology team, and compare these outcomes with a control population.

Methods
Patients with metastatic cancer were randomized to standard care or an ARNP-directed intervention that included discussions of the benefits of hospice, discussions on living wills and advanced directives (Five Wishes document) along with an assessment of QoL. Relevant endpoints included change from baseline QoL and improvement in hospice knowledge.

Results
From Nov. 13, 2008, through July 28, 2009, 26 patients were accrued at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Fla. The study closed early due to published data demonstrating the benefits of early palliative care interventions in the management of metastatic cancer patients. Statistically significant improvements from baseline were noted in emotional and mental QoL assessments in the intervention group that were not seen in the control group. Patients found it useful to have the living will and Five Wishes documents offered as part of the ARNP intervention.

Conclusions
An ARNP-directed intervention that explains the benefits of hospice and addresses advanced directives early in the course of metastatic cancer patients’ treatment is well-received by the patients and their relatives and leads to measurable improvement in the patient’s emotional and mental QoL.

Authors
Gerardo Colon-Otero, M.D., Stephen H. Dyar, Jr., M.D., Mary M. Lesperance, A.R.N.P., Robert P. Shannon, M.D., Jeff A. Sloan, Ph.D.

Clinical trials at Mayo Clinic
Metastatic cancer, to bone

 

Source: http://physicianupdate.mayoclinic.org/2012/05/23/a-nurse-practitioner-directed-intervention-improves-the-quality-of-life-of-patients-with-metastatic-cancer/

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Baltimore LASIK Surgery Practice Hosts Valentine’s Day Special Offer for BOTOX ® Cosmetic

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LASIK Surgeon in Baltimore Announces BOTOX Cosmetic Special Offer for Valentine's Day

Dr. Jay C. Grochmal, a LASIK surgeon in Baltimore, has announced his practice will be hosting a special offer on BOTOX ® Cosmetic to provide patients with a rejuvenated appearance and improved self-confidence at a discounted rate. The offer will run until Valentine’s Day and will give patients the chance to take advantage of reduced pricing on BOTOX in Baltimore in preparation for celebrating the iconic holiday with their loved ones.

At his Baltimore cataract and LASIK surgery practice in Baltimore, Dr. Jay C. Grochmal has announced the beginning of a special offer on BOTOX ® Cosmetic for patients looking to boost their appearance before Valentine’s Day. From now until the upcoming holiday on February 14, the Grochmal Eye Center will be offering BOTOX ® Cosmetic at $9.75 per unit. Dr. Grochmal and his practice provide laser vision correction procedures such as LASIK in Maryland, as well as cosmetic enhancements including BOTOX ® injections, Juvederm®, and eyelid surgery.

Dr. Grochmal says cosmetic procedures such as the non-invasive BOTOX ® Cosmetic and surgical procedures like eyelid surgery can offer patients an aesthetic addition to their LASIK or laser vision correction surgery in order to provide a more comprehensive and noticeable enhancement to their new, clearer vision. Dermal injections like Juvederm® and BOTOX ® Cosmetic are designed to tighten loose skin and treat wrinkles and facial lines. He says with reduced pricing on BOTOX ® Cosmetic and his variety of aesthetic procedures, patients now have the opportunity to improve self confidence and tighten the skin under their eyes for a completely refreshed outlook on life.

For patients interested in taking advantage of the Grochmal Eye Center’s BOTOX ® Cosmetic special for Valentine’s Day, Dr. Grochmal says to contact his practice for more information. He also adds that consulting with an experienced and qualified practice is essential for achieving safe and effective treatment.

About Jay C. Grochmal, MD

Dr. Jay Grochmal received his medical degree from the University of Maryland, after which he completed a rotating internship at the U.S. Public Health Hospital in Baltimore. During his residency, he achieved the rank of Chief Resident at the Greater Baltimore Medical Center’s Department of Ophthalmology. Dr. Grochmal is on staff with the Greater Baltimore Medical Center and St. Agnes Hospital. He has participated in several medical mission trips to third world countries to provide his expertise in eye care, including Pakistan, Jamaica, and the Bahamas. Dr. Grochmal is also a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Located at 405 Frederick Road, Suite 102 in Baltimore, MD, the Grochmal Eye Center can be reached at (410) 697-4090. It can also be contacted online via the website grochmaleye.com or facebook.com/grochmaleye.

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Source: http://www.grochmaleye.com/blog/baltimore-lasik-surgery-practice-hosts-valentines-day-special-offer-for-botox-cosmetic/

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Friday, March 8, 2013

Special LASIK Event, October 23, 2012

As we approach Halloween, our thoughts may turn to scary things. But LASIK shouldn’t be one of them. Not sure if LASIK is right for you? Need to know more to put any fears to rest? Come to our October LASIK event for the straight story. One of our expert doctors will explain LASIK in simple terms and tell you everything you need to know. From what’s involved and what it’s like, to pricing and what to expect before, during and after surgery.

It’s only one hour. So you don’t have to fear a long, boring night. We’ll even give away a special gift at the end of the evening.

Where: Eye Consultants of Texas, 2201 Westgate Plaza, Grapevine, TX 76051

When: Tuesday, October 23 from 6:30-7:30 PM

Must be 18 years or older to attend. Must be present to win.

Please call us in Grapevine at 877-516-4364 today to reserve your space.

Source: http://www.eyectexas.com/blog/special-lasik-event-october-23-2012/

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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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Reasons To Love LASIK February Event

Everyone knows that February 14 is a special day for your heart. We’re making February 19 a special day for your eyes, when we host our Reasons To Love LASIKevent in the comfort of our state-of-the-art offices in Grapevine. If you’ve ever considered LASIK, we’ll give you the straight story in a way you might find refreshing; perhaps pick up something you didn’t realize, even if you’ve been doing your homework.

When: Tuesday, February 19, 6:30 to 7:30 PM
Where: Eye Consultants of  Texas, 2201 Westgate Plaza, Grapevine, TX 76051
Cost: Free

Led by one of our expert doctors, you’ll learn all about what LASIK is like – including costs, the procedure and generally what to expect. By the way, if we perform LASIK on anyone who attends (after a thorough evaluation), we’re offering $300 off their LASIK procedure.*

So please join us for this informative, FREE event. Reasons To Love LASIK only lasts 60 minutes and might be just the information you’re looking for. You’ll also have plenty of opportunities to ask questions. To reserve your space, call our Grapevine office at 877-516-4364. We’re conveniently located to Dallas and Fort Worth.

*For attendees scheduling an evaluation who are determined to be a LASIK candidate. Must be 18 years or older to attend. Must be present to receive LASIK offer. 
 

Source: http://www.eyectexas.com/blog/reasons-to-love-lasik-february-event/

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How to start a Walking Movement in the United States

With obesity among Americans at an all-time high, it’s more important than ever to encourage people of all ages to be active. On December 5, more than one hundred people convened at the Center for Total Health to formulate a plan to advance walking and activity in the United States. Participants came from a variety of organizations working on transportation, public health, science, medicine, and children’s issues.

Highlights of the day included two walking meetings (indoor and out) for all participants and remarks from the nation’s physician, U.S. Surgeon General Regina Benjamin, MD (seen in the photo above, talking with Kaiser Permanente’s Bob Sallis, MD), Scott Bricker, Executive Director of America Walks, and Tyler Norris, Vice President of Kaiser Permanente.

For more information on the benefits of walking, visit Every Body Walk!’s website or follow them on Twitter. More photos from the event can be seen here.

 

Source: http://centerfortotalhealth.org/2012/how-to-start-a-walking-movement-in-the-united-states/

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Ebooks, remote medicine and libraries

Source: http://adventuredoc.net/2012/06/06/ebooks-remote-medicine-and-libraries/

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Filariasis basics for travelers

Source: http://adventuredoc.net/2012/04/29/filariasis-basics-for-travelers/

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Thursday, March 7, 2013

Healthcare provider interaction

Source: http://adventuredoc.net/2013/01/03/healthcare-provider-interaction/

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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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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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Mayo Clinic study finds that cardiac rehab reduces mortality by 45 percent

Randal J. Thomas, M.D., director of Mayo Clinic’s Cardiovascular Health Clinic, and colleagues found that patients who participate in cardiac rehabilitation after having heart interventions such as angioplasty, stents and clot-busting drugs have a 45 percent lower mortality rate.

The research team studied data from more than 2,300 patients between 1994 and 2008, and recently published the results in Circulation 

Only about 40 percent of patients in the study participated in cardiac rehabilitation. These findings are particularly important for interventional cardiologists, Dr. Thomas says, because encouraging patients to pursue cardiac rehab after their procedure can potentially save more lives than previously thought.

Authors: Kashish Goel, M.B.B.S.; Ryan J. Lennon, M.S.; R. Thomas Tilbury, M.D.; Ray W. Squires, PhD; Randal J. Thomas, M.D., M.S.

Source: http://physicianupdate.mayoclinic.org/2012/04/03/mayo-clinic-study-finds-that-cardiac-rehab-reduces-mortality-by-45-percent/

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Wives, Yes; Husbands, No (Essay 26)

Source: http://bernardlown.wordpress.com/2011/09/19/wives-yes-husbands-no/

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One thousand patients with primary myelofibrosis: The Mayo Clinic experience

Ayalew Tefferi, M.D., with the Department of Hematology at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., discusses the results of a study of 1,000 patients who have primary myelofibrosis.

Key findings
Researchers found that when patients with myelofibrosis present, their clinical features are not at a steady state and usually progress within the first few months of the diagnosis. It is best to wait a several months before providing a prognostic score.

Many patients with primary myelofibrosis can live a long life (exceeding 15 years) and patients who won’t live that long can be identified.

The most recent version of DIPSS-plus scoring system performed much better than prior versions, helping researchers to determine what proportion of patients with myelofibrosis are suitable for therapies. More than 50 percent of patients require observation alone.

A description of the study is included in the January 2012 issue of Mayo Clinic Proceedings.

ABSTRACT
Objective
To share our decades of experience with primary myelofibrosis and underscore the importance of outcomes research studies in designing clinical trials and interpreting their results.

Patients and methods
One thousand consecutive patients with primary myelofibrosis seen at Mayo Clinic between Nov. 4, 1977, and Sept. 1, 2011, were considered.

The International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS), dynamic IPSS (DIPSS), and DIPSS-plus were applied for risk stratification. Separate analyses were included for patients seen at time of referral (N=1000), at initial diagnosis (N=340), and within or after 1 year of diagnosis (N=660).

Results

To date, 592 deaths and 68 leukemic transformations have been documented. Parameters at initial diagnosis vs time of referral included: 

  • Median age (66 vs 65 years)
  • Male sex (61% vs 62%)
  • Red cell transfusion need (24% vs 38%)
  • Hemoglobin level less than 10 g/dL (38% vs 54%)
  • Platelet count less than 100 × 109/L (18% vs 26%)
  • Leukocyte count more than 25 × 109/L (13% vs 16%)
  • Marked splenomegaly (21% vs 31%)
  • Constitutional symptoms (29% vs 34%)
  • Abnormal karyotype (31% vs 41%)

Mutational frequencies were 61% for JAK2V617F, 8% for MPLW515, and 4% for IDH1/2.

DIPSS-plus risk distributions at time of referral were 10% low, 15% intermediate-1, 37% intermediate-2, and 37% high. The corresponding median survivals were 17.5, 7.8, 3.6, and 1.8 years vs 20.0, 14.3, 5.3, and 1.7 years for patients younger than 60 years of age.

Compared with both DIPSS and IPSS, DIPSS-plus showed better discrimination among risk groups. Five-year leukemic transformation rates were 6% and 21% in low- and high-risk patients, respectively.

Conclusion
The current document should serve as a valuable resource for patients and physicians and provides context for the design and interpretation of clinical trials.

AUTHORS
Ayalew Tefferi, M.D.,  Terra L. Lasho, M.T., Thitina Jimma, M.D., Christy M. Finke, B.S., Naseema Gangat, MBBS, Rakhee Vaidya, MBBS , Kebede Hussein Begna, M.D., Aref Al-Kali, M.D., Rhett P. Ketterling, M.D., Curtis A. Hanson, M.D., Animesh Pardanani, MBBS, Ph.D.

Source: http://physicianupdate.mayoclinic.org/2012/03/15/one-thousand-patients-with-primary-myelofibrosis-the-mayo-clinic-experience/

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Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Myelopathy Video

Compression on the spinal cord is known as myelopathy. This occurs when the spinal canal becomes restricted in the neck or upper back. This may be due to degeneration in the discs and facet joints (spondylotic myelopathy) or bone spur formation in the spinal canal (stenosis with myelopathy).



[TOC]
Short Teaser: 
Compression of the spinal cord can be a serious medical condition.
Thumbnail: 
Myelopathy Video

Source: http://www.spine-health.com/video/myelopathy-video

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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

 

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

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Rock Health: Accelerating Innovation in Health Care

Innovation starts with a seed, an idea fueled by passion and a desire to make meaningful change by building on that which has come before and making it better. In no field is this perhaps more vital than in health care.

Rock Health, a seed accelerator and nonprofit foundation focused on the intersection of health care and technology, develops global strategies to enhance care delivery, patient-clinician relations, and the health and well being of people the world over.  The organization is partnering with organizations, entrepreneurs, researchers, thought leaders and innovators across multiple fields, including medicine, technology, venture capital, and corporate industry to advance digital technology in health care – two fields that touch each of our lives. Through start-up funding, research and public events, the foundation supports next generation health entrepreneurs committed to supporting digital innovation in health care.

Kaiser Permanente recently announced its partnership with Rock Health as a sponsor to provide financial support and work closely with the seed accelerator’s network of change makers to explore new ways to leverage digital innovation to improve the health of communities across the globe. In this move, Kaiser Permanente joins several other health and business leaders—including the Mayo Clinic, Harvard Medical School, General Electric, Nike, Genentech and others—who support Rock Health and the important work it is doing.

For more information on Rock Health, including its incubator program, its events, its own blog, and more, check out the website here.

Source: http://centerfortotalhealth.org/2012/rock-health-accelerating-innovation-in-health-care/

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Dr. Labor Publishes New Technology Article In National Publication

Cataract & Refractive Surgery Today, a major industry publication, recently asked Phillips Kirk Labor, MD to share his expertise about a revolutionary cataract surgery technology he introduced to Dallas/Fort Worth in 2011. The result was an article Dr. Labor authored, Updating Your Practice With Advanced Technology, with the subtitle, Intraoperative aberrometry is a worthwhile investment for the practice and provides added security for cataract patients. The article appeared nationwide in the October 2012 issue.

A prime example of intraopertive aberrometry he discusses is the ORA System. This is a “wavefront aberrometry device,” the first of its kind to measure cataract surgery results in real time – during the procedure. Previously called ORange, Dr. Labor was the first metro Dallas/Fort Worth eye surgeon to use this technology when it was introduced in 2011. When ORange changed to the further enhanced ORA System, Dr. Labor remained at the forefront as an early adopter of this newer, better technology. Today, he is one of the top ORA surgeons in the world.

Cataract & Refractive Surgery Today is a trusted, highly regarded publication among leading surgeons all over the world. I was grateful when they contacted me, and didn’t hesitate to do it,” Dr. Labor said. “Although written for our industry, my main goal, however, was to share my experiences and successes related to how this benefits the patient first.”

To learn more about the ORA System, or any our comprehensive eye care services, please call us in Grapevine at 877-516-4364. We’re conveniently located to all of Fort Worth and Dallas.

Source: http://www.eyectexas.com/blog/dr-labor-publishes/

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Life as a Remote Site Doctor

Source: http://adventuredoc.net/2012/01/31/life-as-a-remote-site-doctor/

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Tuesday, March 5, 2013

A Maverick’s Lonely Path in Cardiology (Essay 28)

Source: https://bernardlown.wordpress.com/2012/03/10/mavericks-lonely-path-in-cardiology/

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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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