US Media Studios Relays 2016 Flu Vaccine Information

Do you get the flu vaccine every year? Nearly a quarter of adults don’t get this annual vaccine for varying reasons. One of those reasons is having a reaction to the vaccine. But very few people who get the flu shot ever have a bad reaction to it.

The Flu Shot and Side Effects 

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are 157 million to 168 million doses of the injectable flu vaccine available this year. The vaccine is one of the most effective ways to reduce the chance of getting the flu. Yet, the possibility of feeling lousy from side effects keeps some adults away from the doctor’s office, community center or pharmacy. Soreness at the shot site that lasts for maybe two days is one of the aftereffects of the vaccine. Other complaints US Media Studios notes people make after getting the shot are: headache, nausea, and muscle aches, which can be the symptoms of influenza. These last perhaps a day or two and then go away.

Who Should and Should Not Get the Flu Shot

Children 6 months old and everyone else and especially seniors.

Pregnant women can get the flu shot.

Children under 6 months should not get the flu shot.

Anyone with a severe egg allergy should not get the flu shot

The Flu Shot Myth

Every year we hear people say they won’t get the flu shot because they think it will give them the flu. The truth is that the flu viruses are inactive and therefore, non-infectious in the vaccine. One cannot get catch the flu bug from getting a flu shot. If someone does happen to get the flu after getting a flu vaccination, they were already exposed to the virus before immunity from the vaccine was built up.

Stay healthy this fall and winter.

US Media Studios Highlights National Fall Prevention Awareness Day

Today is National Fall Prevention Awareness Day. US Media Studios highlights important information for seniors about how to prevent a fall and the possible injuries that come with it.

Hard Facts about Falls

• Two out ever ten trauma admissions among people over age 65 and older are due to falls and subsequent injuries.
• Age, gender, a history of falling, prior health conditions, physical limitations, environment, and medication clashes can cause a person to become lightheaded, dizzy, and fall.
• Loose throw rugs and loose carpeting can cause a fall.
• Small toys and balls on a floor can cause a fall.
• Hallways and rooms which are too dark when walking can cause a fall.
• Loose cords and wiring can cause a fall.

Preventing a Fall

• Seniors who have fallen or are prone to falling might want to check their homes for trip hazards and have someone remove or fix them.
• Leave a night light on in hallways, bedrooms and bathrooms at night.
• Ask a trusted pharmacist if any new medication will clash with regular medication. And ask if the dose is right for the height and weight of the person. Blood pressure that’s too low can cause fainting and falling.
• Slow down when walking. Look around, hold on to countertops, chairs and other places to steady gait when walking.
• Use a walking aid such a cane (many of pretty spiffy these days) or a walker if needed.

US Media Studios cares about the senior community. They enrich our lives and offer history, experience and knowledge that can be immensely beneficial. One fall can cause a bone fracture, concussion, or worse. Prevention is key in keeping our valuable seniors safe from falls.

US Media Studios Stresses Health Benefits for Women Stressed Out

Stress affects everyone. It wreaks havoc on our health, mind and soul. For women, the health effects stress can cause can undo the positive steps taken the day before to improve wellness.

Women, Food and Stress

Stress can cause plenty of wellness problems from high blood pressure to diabetes. And while both genders know to eat healthier and get more daily physical activity, stress can wipe out the benefits for women. Research published has shown that the benefits of eating healthy were diminished when women were stressed the day before. Healthy people who follow positive steps for improved wellness should find the best methods to reduce the level of stress in their lives. Simple methods to de-stress can be taking a walk, getting more daily physical activity, trying yoga or other relaxation exercises, a warm bath or sharing problems with trusted friends and family.

Going Forward

Stress is a part of every day life no matter the gender or age. Children feel it, men feel it, women feel it. US Media Studios does not recommend indulging in “stress eating”, no matter how satisfactory it may feel at the time. Unhealthy food and beverages are short-term “feel good fixes”.  Every once in a while, it’s not so bad. Going forward, stick to a healthy diet which is low in fat, drink plenty of water, and at least take a walk on work breaks and right after dinner. Here’s to women living longer healthier lives. 

US Media Studios Examines Strategies to Cut Healthcare Costs

Health care is getting more expensive every day. Employees are paying more for health care than they were in previous years. Fortunately, there are thrifty strategies to help cut health care costs, as US Media Studios relays.

Stash Some Cash

One of the most effective methods of reducing the personal cost of health care is to contribute to a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HAS). Both of these savings plans offer employees a way to contribute pre-tax dollars into the accounts to be later used for prescriptions, co-pays, medical equipment, and the like. But there are differences in each plan to note:

The money in an FSA cannot be rolled over at the end of the employer’s health coverage. It must be used before the next pre-enrollment period begins. So, you use it or lose it.

The money put in an HSA is the employee’s to keep no matter where they go. However, the health care plan must be a high deductible one in order to qualify for this savings.

Another caveat is that some employer-paid health care plans do not offer either savings option.  But if they do, take one. Savings average about 30 percent.

Save on Prescriptions

Research and compare the price of prescriptions within your geographical area with GoodRX.com. This site shows you differences in prices for one prescription within a zip code range. People who have to pay out of pocket for prescriptions could find price comparison shopping advantageous.

Additional Ways to Reduce Health Care Costs

Warehouse clubs like Costco and BJ’s can be beneficial when consumers want to save money. 

Get a 90 day supply of the prescription because it saves money in the long run.

US Media Studios suggests looking into The Partnership for Prescription Assistance, a free service that helps consumers get access to needed prescriptions.

Community centers offer free health checks once a month. Drug stores provide low cost vaccinations.

There are many ways to save on health care costs. We hope these suggestions are helpful.

US Media Studios Highlights Traits of Successful Entrepreneurs

What traits do the most successful entrepreneurs have in common?  Some very basic ones grounded in common sense.

The Path to Success Has No Potholes

Bad habits can get in the way of anyone with career and personal goals. The bad habits are like potholes in which an entrepreneur, or anyone really, can become stuck. Here’s how to not get stuck in these common potholes:

Get regular, restorative sleep every night. Turn the TV off early, get in bed and read something lightweight. Relax. High quality sleep is valuable for the mind and body. It enhances productivity increases energy, improves mood, and leads to overall better health. US Media Studios notes that overall better health leads to more success.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle every single day. Don’t overindulge with alcohol. A drink now and then to take the edges off a stressful day is okay. But drinking excessively wreaks havoc on every part of the body. It also affects decision making both when drinking and the day after.

Know yourself, trust yourself. Confidence is knowing who you are and what you know you can do. It is not arrogance. Confidence is not gained by putting other people, treating them in a condescending manner. It IS all about you. No one else. It is not about the negative people in your life, nor about the weak willed people in your life. No one knows you better than you. Avoid all other ones who can bring you down, if possible.

US Media Studios highlights entrepreneurs from different industries. Today’s innovators, movers and shakers, and game changers are not daunted by bad habit pot holes. Are you one of them?

US Media Studios Relays Benefits of Health-Related Apps

The American Heart Association found that people who used health-related mobile apps or Internet-based applications were more effective in engaging a healthier lifestyle, including increased physical activity than those who did not.

How Apps Boost Health

There are 640 million adults and 110 million children who are obese in the world. In the U.S., roughly a third of adults and children weight more than they should. Overweight people are at a higher risk of health and chronic health problems. Mobile and Internet apps have proven to help people adopt a healthier lifestyle, and add more physical activity to daily schedules. The AHA study reviewed studies from 1999 to 2013 to evaluate the effects of using the Internet, mobile phones, stand-alone software tools and wearable devices, and the effect they have on personal health. Researchers found that those who used mobile-based programs were more likely to increase daily physical activity than those who didn’t use a mobile app.

Wear It and Move It

Wearable devices that measure and relay how much physical activity someone does are also effective in improving health, US Media Studios relays. The more specific or personalized the message, the better than chances of engaging in a healthier daily diet and adding exercise to the day or week. Most people who use wearable devices regularly exercise, even if it is to just take the stairs more often. The AHA study also relays that self-monitoring and goal-setting programs with multiple methods of communication messaging were effective, and results were better when there was some level of communication with health care providers. While there may be some people who scoff at purchasing a wearable health-related device, there are benefits to it such as monitoring daily physical activity and water intake, as well as measuring and recording overall health objectives. 

US Media Studios Relays FDA Finding on Antibacterial Products

What cleans hands better than soap and water?

The FDA Findings

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, (FDA), recently published its findings on the effectiveness of antibacterial soaps. In its report, the federal agency found that among several ingredients in antibacterial soaps, triclosan and triclocarban are not more effective than using soap and water to wash hands. Then two named ingredients are intended to be used with water, and rinsed off. Manufacturers of over-the-counter antibacterial products which include those two ingredients are now no longer permitted to market them as such. The FDA also states that manufacturers of products with those ingredients have not proven that that they are safe for long term use, nor any more effective than using soap and water.

Cold and Flu Season, Schools, Workplaces

US Media Studios long believes that the most effective way to prevent the spread of germs in commonly populated spaces, and when germs are most likely to be spread, is to wash hands regularly with warm water and soap. No special soap is needed as most are effective in killing germs. Schools and workplaces, where more people are located and congregate, should consider antibacterial soaps with regular soap dispensers and running hot water.

If soap is not available, and hot water is not provided, a hand sanitizer product with 60 percent alcohol is recommended, such as disposable wipes and hand gels. Washing hands is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. Other methods of germ prevention is cleaning desks, telephones, doorknobs, lunch and break room tables and other objects with a germ-killing solution or spray.

Nothing cleans hands better than soap and water. Read more on the topic here. 

US Media Studios Notes the Best U.S. Cities for Everyone

Most Americans would say that their city is best place to live. There really is much to love about our hometowns and home cities. Despite the daily grind of life, traffic congestion, and cost of living rates, home is where we long to be, where we are eager to return after vacation, and where we feel most comfortable.

The Woodlands, Texas

Great Places 

US Media Studios knows that there are hundreds of great U.S. cities. Each one has its own personality, its on history, and its own unique benefits. Below are five U.S. cities which a recent survey ranked as being some of the best. They are in not in particular order:

The Woodlands, Texas – Despite its name, the outdoor activities are not all that plentiful. However, it does boast plenty of great job opportunities and an educated population. Texas is a great state in which to live, anyway.

Austin, Texas – There is plenty to love about Austin from its vibrant music and entertainment scene to its schools, neighborhoods and its diversity.

Boulder, Colorado – Clean air, an abundance of outdoor activities, great public schools, and short work commutes make this city beneath the mountains one of the best in the country. What more could one ask for?

Arlington, Virginia – Arlington is really more of a county than a city. Nonetheless, it is close to the nation’s capital, therefore, offers plenty of outdoor events, monuments, and great public transportation. Its public schools are rated A-plus, and its family friendly.

Provo, Utah – It is well-known for its nightlight, short commutes, and overall good health and fitness. US Media Studios also notes that the city boasts short work commutes and a happening night life.

Where do you want to live?

US Media Studios Reviews Information about Bacterial Meningitis

Young men and women seem to be affected by bacterial meningitis more often than others. Perhaps this is because they are young and feel invincible, or perhaps because it is just that they happen to spend more time with each other in close proximity (dorm rooms, for example) than other age groups. US Media Studios views some important facts about this infection, shares a few prevention tips.

Vital Facts

Symptoms of bacterial meningitis can appear fast or over a few days. They usually develop within three to seven days of exposure. The symptoms may include sudden onset of fever, severe headache and a stiff neck. Nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, and confusion are also symptoms. If any of these or even a few of these symptoms are present, visit a healthcare professional immediately for testing. Early antibiotic treatment is essential for recovery. Bacterial meningitis cannot be spread by breathing the same air as someone who has it. It is most often spread from person to person through saliva or spit (coughing or kissing). It is not as contagious as the common cold or the flu.

Prevention

The simplest way to prevent infection is to have children of all ages vaccinated against it. US Media Studios suggests asking prep school and universities for information regarding their policies on the prevention of infections and illnesses on campuses. Avoid sharing anything that involves the possible swapping of saliva, such as sharing drinking glasses or e-cigarettes. Cover the mouth when coughing or when someone else near you is coughing. 

US Media Studios Focuses on the Benefits of Senior Wellness

Senior wellness centers are located throughout the country in communities where their services are needed the most. The centers provide more than just exercise classes and group card games. Many older Americans find and reap the benefits of these gathering places.

 Senior Community Center Benefits

There are 11,000 senior centers throughout the U.S., according to the National Council on Aging. Different centers focus on different goals, depending on the needs of the community. Senior wellness includes health and fitness awareness and activity, regularity in getting daily movement, healthy eating, and social activities which keep folks connected to other people in the community and their families. These centers also offer arts classes, free nutritious meals, free movies, and excursions to local sites such as museums, grocery stores. What’s to lose?

Community and City Support

Communities and cities which support senior wellness and/or community centers tend to have better attended centers. Work with area YMCAs, schools, and also with universities, community and four year colleges can yield better attendance, which leads to healthier seniors. US Media Studios notes the benefits of senior wellness are far greater than improved physical health. Social activities remind older people that they are valuable. A widow or widower that spends most of the time alone, feeling lonely, is less likely to take good care of their health. Imagine if that same person joined a wellness or fitness class, or perhaps went to a free movie with a friend once or twice a week. Senior wellness has many benefits which are measured beyond health and fitness. Find the nearest senior community center here. 

US Media Studios Asks Where Can We Find Lead

There are very few people who do not know that there was a dangerously high amount of lead found in the water in Flint, Michigan. That public health crisis is all but over now and the water is safe to cook with and drink. But where else can we find lead?

image:Google images

It is long-known that lead can be found in school water fountains, wall paint and toys. 

What are the other ways?

Common Places to Find Lead 

Paint – Lead from paint and lead-contaminated dust can be pretty rare to find and determine. Lead accidentally consumed this way is the most common cause of lead poisoning, according to the EPA. While there are some facilities which may still have lead-based paint on walls, doors and windowsills, most don’t anymore.

Drinking water – Lead poisoning is more likely to be in drinking water through distribution systems and corroded household plumbing. Schools, public buildings and some older homes should have pipes and distribution systems examined for possible corrosion.

Common household products – Glazed ceramics can contain lead. Non-glossy vinyl mini-blinds imported from China, Taiwan, Mexico and Indonesia may contain lead. As the blinds deteriorate, dust forms on the slat which children may ingest. Replace these inexpensive blinds with better quality ones.

 Summary

Lead and dust from lead can not only make consumers ill, but can lower the IQ of children who inadvertently ingest it. US Media Studios hopes that readers will be more attuned to where lead can be found every day. 

US Media Studios Drinks Up More Good Coffee News

If we had a nickel for every article we have read and written about the good health benefits of coffee, US Media Studios staffers could retire well. Here’s another one to drink up.

Bad News Brews Good Coffee News

The World Health Organization research arm downgraded its listing of coffee as a possible carcinogen. It seems there is not enough proof to show a link to cancer. Recently, a study was released which stated so. But in getting to the bottom of the cup, so to speak, it seems it is the very hot beverages that have the possibility of becoming cancerous. Other research has found that coffee may actually lower the risk of certain types of cancer. People who drink four or more cups per day have a 20 percent lower risk of developing malignant melanoma than those who drink less. People who drink three or more cups can lower their chance of developing basal cell carcinoma, the most common form of skin cancer.

Need a Refresher?

Moderate coffee drinking, which is defined as three to five cups per day, provides the healthful benefits such as lowering the risk of heart disease, lowering the risk of diabetes, can delay Alzheimer’s disease, and decrease certain cancer risks. All of this is based on thousands of studies published. (Those three to five cups are the smaller cups that fit on matching saucers, by the way.)

US Media Studios Examines Fitness in Mid-Life

There isn’t a doctor in the world that would not encourage a patient in their mid-life years to get some form of physical activity every day. A little exercise goes a long way in preventing many medical issues that can arise after one turns 65.

Physical activity offers many protective benefits for people between 40 and 60 years old. US Media Studios reminds that it prevents high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and abnormal heart rhythm known as atrial fibrillation. It also keeps muscles and joints working smoothly and can reduce the onset of osteo arthritis. Daily exercise can lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes also. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise. An energetic walk after lunch and dinner counts toward these goals.

There are several good fitness trackers available that are worn on the wrist or clipped to a belt. A good pair of supportive athletic shoes, moisture-wicking socks, and cool, loose tops and bottoms make getting daily physical activity more enjoyable and comfortable. Exercises should include some form of aerobic activity such as biking or swimming. Add strength training work into the routine to keep muscles and joint limber.

It’s never too late to start an exercise plan. It’s never too late to work toward better health.  Some people prefer going to a gym or health club, and enjoy the structure, and variety of classes. Others prefer to exercise at home with a fun DVD or by taking an energetic walk around the neighborhood. Not which way one likes, find a great plan and get started.  

US Media Studios Covers Food Poisoning Prevention Tip

The summer holidays are times families and friends gather to celebrate and eat al fresco together. Let’s make it a good time, and not time spend in the bathroom all afternoon or night long. US Media Studios also shares what to do if you are hit with a bout of food poisoning.

Food poisoning can happen at any time and any place, even at Aunt B’s famous Memorial Day cookout. Below are some common sense prevention tips so we can have a great summer:

Avoid food that smells “off”. This can mean grilled chicken or hamburgers. One bite and most people know when the meat or poultry is not safe to eat. Don’t swallow the bad bite, but spit it out in a napkin. Kindly let the hosts know. Wash the taste from the mouth with a beverage.

Avoid foods made with milk or mayonnaise and which have been left outside or on the counter and not in a cold pack. Essentially, all prepared food should be kept in cold picnic containers until ready to eat.

If a bout of food poisoning should occur, it can happen a few hours, days or even weeks after ingesting affected food. It feels like one minute you are feeling fine and the next you are sitting on the bathroom floor worshipping the porcelain god.

Symptoms can include: feeling bloated, extreme abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, cramps, watery diarrhea and fever. After the wave of these symptoms subsides, US Media Studios suggests drinking water slowly to flush out the bacteria. Ginger ale sipped slowly can also ease nausea. Sports drinks can replace lost calcium and electrolytes. Eat bland food slowly for a day or two until you feel stronger and not so shaky.

It’s okay to enjoy the homemade goodies family and friends bring to picnics, cookouts and parties. Just be sure they are stored correctly, and if heating or cooking is needed, that it is done thoroughly.

US Media Studios Examines the Safety of Public Pools

How safe is the public pool people enjoy? How clean is the water? US Media Studios examines the safety of public pools.

How clean is the water in a public pool?

A recent report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that almost 80 percent of the 50,000 public pools, hot rubs and water playgrounds they tested had at least one violation. One in eight inspections resulted in immediate closure due to serious health and safety problems. The highest numbers of closures were related to “kiddie” wading pools. Closures result from common contamination in the water such as fecal matter or urine.

Poop in the pool does have to be seen to be prevalent. Microscopic particles can stem from an adult with diarrhea getting in the pool or hot tub. The swim diapers worn by infants, toddlers and small children are not preventative in keeping fecal particles from getting in the water. Wading pool water is shallow and easily warms up in the heat of day.

Safety is another public swim issue which led to some closures. Lack of lifeguards, lack of safety equipment, poor drain coverage, a pH level too low –these can close a favorite water park or pool immediately. Inadequate disinfectant concentration is also to blame for closures. So too is a pool with an unusually high amount of chlorine in the water.

US Media Studios suggests checking public health records for all public pools, including those in condo and apartment communities, homeowner associations, hotels, motels and resorts.  Summer is around the corner. Some US states are already experiencing summer temps. As the heat moves in, people head to pools to cool off. We remind readers to take a shower before entering the pool. Take small children to the rest rooms every hour and be sure to clean bottoms well.  After all, no one wants to swim with poop in the pool.

US Media Studios Dental Health Reminders

Our teeth may seem sturdy and hard, but in reality, they can be quite vulnerable to different foods, beverages and other items we put in our mouths. US Media Studios offers dental health reminders for to help keep those pearly whites pearly white.

Brush teeth twice daily, floss once a day, schedule and keep regular dental checkup visits, and eat healthful meals. These are the basic tenets of good dental health. But there is more to it than that.

Avoid biting fingernails. This can cause micro-sized chips of the teeth which in turn can become full cracks. Skip sugary drinks when thirsty and drink a refreshing glass of water instead. Just don’t add a squeeze of lemon or other citrus product in it.

Lemon, orange, lime and other citrus foods can damage tooth enamel – the protective coating that blocks cavities and tooth decay. Citric salad dressings can also damage teeth. Avoid these thing if possible and spare the enamel on your teeth.

Please don’t brush your teeth harshly. This abrades the teeth, can hurt the gums and even produce receding gums. Instead, give teeth and gums a therapeutic massage.

US Media Studios also warns against chewing ice. Even though this is pretty common, it can damage teeth. If you catch some cubes in your mouth when taking a drink, let them go back in the glass.

Your teeth are one of the first things people see about you when you smile. They are also the entry way to the digestive system. Take care of them so they can take care of you.

US Media Studios Reviews How to Prevent Playground Injuries

Small children are incredibly active and can fall down and get hurt in the time it takes to blink the eyes. US Media Studios reviews how to prevent playground injuries.

The playground is a great place for children. It is full of fun equipment, and gives kids a way to expend some of the bottled up energy they get from sitting quietly too long. From the slide to the swings and monkey bars, there are plenty of ways to have fun – and get hurt. School and state safety officials should thoroughly inspect playground equipment once a quarter to be sure there are no faulty connections, loose nuts or bolts and are safe. Parents taking kids to public parks to play might want to talk to little kids about what’s okay to do and not to do at the playground. We realize that once some children get to the park, they just want to bolt and start playing. Frankly, a cool playground can affect adults the same way too. Adult supervision at the playground is imperative.

Parents, caretakers and other adults might want to look at and examine playground equipment. If it is rusty and looks like some of the parts could fall off when in use, keep children away from it. On the other hand, many local playgrounds are safe. US Media Studios also notes that parents and adults can remind kids to not hang upside down on monkey bars, slide head first down the slides or jump off a swing or teeter-totter when it is too high. Everyone can have fun and be safe at the playground.

US Media Studios Shares Where the Cleanest Beaches Are Located

America’s beaches and seashores are wonderful places to relax, enjoy nature have fun. But it is no fun if the sand is used as an ashtray, litter is polluting the water, and the stench of sewage prevalent. So where are the cleanest beaches?

US Media Studios shares the top five cleanest beaches, and offers a link to one of the best resources for the environment for readers to enjoy.

Dauphin Island Public Beach, Alabama – The National Resources Defense Council (NRDC) Staff blog notes this beach meets national water quality benchmarks nearly 100 percent of the time over the last five years.

Long Beach City, Nassau County, New York – A worldwide-known travel website notes that the water in this area is clean and safe for swimming. The surf is 3.3 miles long and the there are no pets or alcohol allowed on the beach.

Newport Beach, CA at 38^th Street

Newport Beach is a nice beach in the first place. The NDRC states it is the only one in the state to make its “Beach Superstar” consistently.

Po’ipu Beach Park, Kauai, Hawaii – Clean white sand and crystal clear water earned this Pacific beauty its ranks. It is one of the top 10 best beaches in the United States.

Hampton Beach State Park, New Hampshire

The NDRC reports that this beach meets the national water quality benchmarks 98 percent of the time over five years. Its unique carry-in/carry-our program which helps keep the area clean for everyone. US Media Studios encourages readers to help keep beaches and shores clean on every visit. Be responsible for your trash and throw it out or secure it. Don’t put cigarettes out in the sand or in the water. Report people who deliberately litter the beach or pollute the water. The beach is for everyone. 

Dauphin Island Public Beach, IL
(image:wikipedia)

US Media Studios Reveals Why We Do Not Get Enough Sleep

Work. A recent survey from CareerBuilder found that almost 44 percent of American employees lose sleep because they worry about work-related issues. Nearly one in four of those surveyed said they do not get enough sleep at least once a week. Another survey, from 2013, found that three in four people questioned lost sleep over work. US Media Studios also has seen more workers doing more than one person's job since the recession in 2008. Workers let go during the economic downturn have yet to be replaced, leaving less people to do more.

Technology does not help the matter either. Many people sleep with the smart phone or tablet beside the bed. Some use the alarm clock function, but still wake up when emails come in, or texts arrive.  American employees will take the time to reply to a text or an urgent email. We can also factor in the sounds and lights that go off when items arrive.

So how can we turn work off when we go to bed? Move the smart phone away from the bed. Set a time to prepare for bed and rest. Don't let anything get in the way of it. Let co-workers, managers, bosses, and colleagues know that there will be no replies after a certain time at night. Get more exercise during the day and after dinner. This eases stress that builds during the day and early evening. Go to bed at the same time every night, if possible. Find a relaxing way to wind down before climbing into bed. Pleasant dreams.

US Media Studios Explains How to Get a Handle on Medical Bills

Medical care is not cheap. Bills can arrive in the mail with errors on them costing patients hundreds of dollars. It pays to examine every medical bill.

The American Medical Association estimates that 7.1 percent of claims paid in 2013 had an error. Financial website NerdWallet found mistakes in 49 percent of Medicare claims in 2014. Billing errors are common and can cost patients a lot of money in out-of-pocket expenses.

Medical coding is often to blame for the errors. In truth, it takes meticulous attention to detail. Even small bills, such as those for co-pays, can be ripe with errors. But there is good news in all of this worrisome news.

US Media Studios learns that as part of a 2015 settlement, medical debts sent to collections will have a six month grace period before they show up on a consumer’s credit report. Further, the three credit reporting agencies are required to remove a medical debt once it is reported as paid or settled by the insurance company. Keep in mind though that bills paid by the consumer and settled remain on reports. The insurance company has to report it to the credit reporting agencies in order to it to be removed.

The most important thing to know is to not wait too long to pay or officially dispute a medical bill or bills. Some insurers and providers are quick to settle unpaid bills. Twenty percent of consumers have an unpaid medical debt on their credit report, according to a report from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

When a medical bill arrives in the mail or in email, review it as soon as possible and completely.  Do Google search on medical codes not explained or understood. Call the insurer or provider and ask what the charge is for. Haste makes money waste. Jump on medical bills and don’t pay for something that should not be there. It’s your money. Why give it to an insurer if you didn’t get the service?

Don't be this guy.
(image:pixabay)