Yes, when it comes to showering, shaving and generally looking after themselves, many men are a little complacent. Here are seven personal hygiene mistakes that men make and what you can do to avoid them.

Wearing too much Cologne

A little bit of cologne can go a long way towards keeping a man smelling his best but too much, is well, too much. Smelling nice is one thing, filling an entire room with your scent is something else entirely. You’re supposed to splash it on your neck, not wash with it.

Not Shaving Enough

A little bit of stubble can be stylish but too much can easily leave a man looking sloppy. As a general rule of thumb, when things that start getting caught in your beard, it’s time for you to shave. It’s also worth noting that facial hair belongs on a mans face, not his neck.

Smelling of Body Odour

There’s no faster way to repel the opposite sex than to smell like you haven’t showered in weeks. Body odour’s not just unappealing, it’s also downright inconsiderate if you plan on spending time around other people.

Keeping a handle of body odour requires both regular showering and regular application of deodorant. If you tend to sweat a lot, an antiperspirant is also well worth considering.

Dirty, Bitten Nails

If you’re a guy, you don’t need to get regular manicures but you should try to keep your nails presentable. When nails get too long, they tend to attract dirt and nails that have been bitten to pieces don’t look much better.

To keep your nails looking their best, use a nail clippers or small scissors to trim them on a regular basis.

Wearing the Same Jeans Forever

Many men seem to believe that jeans have a mystical power to stay clean regardless of how many times they are worn. In reality, after a pair of jeans have been worn two or three times, they start to smell.

And while the wearer might not notice that smell, other people certainly do. Avoiding this mistake simply requires regular trips to the laundry. And more than one pair of jeans.

Forgetting to Floss

Most men brush their teeth at least twice a day but many don’t bother to floss. While brushing is arguably the most important, failing to floss can cause all sorts of dental problems.

Unfortunately, regardless of how long you brush your teeth for, a toothbrush can’t reach everywhere. When you don’t floss, plaque therefore becomes inevitable and with it, the accompanying possibility of both gum disease and tooth decay.

A Lack of Facial Skin Care

Another important area of personal hygiene that many men seem to forget about is the need to regularly wash their face. While you can keep your face presentable by washing it in the shower, showering alone won’t keep flakes and blemishes at bay.

To keep your skin in good condition, wash your face with warm soapy water at least once a day. It’s also worth noting if you’ve never used skin moisturiser, you might be surprised by the difference it can make.

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  Kyle Oliver is an health and hygiene specialist. He writes articles during his spare time on hygiene factors. Oliver recommends portable urinal device for both sexes to avoid unhygienic public toilets.

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  ]]> http://www.medicalinsurance.org/seven-personal-hygiene-mistakes-that-men-make/feed/ 0 http://www.medicalinsurance.org/flaccid-trut/ http://www.medicalinsurance.org/flaccid-trut/#comments Thu, 06 Dec 2012 15:49:52 +0000 Cullie Burris http://www.medicalinsurance.org/?p=2275 Learn the flaccid truth about the Melty Man by reading these five common causes of erectile dysfunction. For a healthy erection you need the right stimulation, a functioning nervous system and an adequate blood supply, but your lifestyle choices could be inadvertently affecting all three. It is possible to smoke, drink and eat your way [...]

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  ]]> Learn the flaccid truth about the Melty Man by reading these five common causes of erectile dysfunction. For a healthy erection you need the right stimulation, a functioning nervous system and an adequate blood supply, but your lifestyle choices could be inadvertently affecting all three.

  It is possible to smoke, drink and eat your way to erectile dysfunction, so a healthy lifestyle is necessary for a happy penis. Don’t depress your nervous system with alcohol, reduce your libido with stress or restrict your blood flow due to obesity;  stress, drugs, smoking, weight gain and alcohol can all lead to an unhealthy erection, but each are avoidable with a few simple changes.

  However, regardless of your lifestyle choices, if you are suffering from erectile dysfunction it is always important to go and see your GP, as erectile dysfunction can also be caused by many underlying illnesses, including diabetes and heart disease.

  

  This infographic is provided by Dr Fox.

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  ]]> http://www.medicalinsurance.org/flaccid-trut/feed/ 0 http://www.medicalinsurance.org/4-things-you-must-do-when-hiring-a-medical-contract-manufacturer/ http://www.medicalinsurance.org/4-things-you-must-do-when-hiring-a-medical-contract-manufacturer/#comments Thu, 23 Aug 2012 09:13:42 +0000 Cullie Burris http://www.medicalinsurance.org/?p=2258 Most industries in the world today seem to have found the Eureka point that Emile Durkheim had when he wrote on the benefits gained by specialization. A social process that began simply as the allowance of an individual to focus on one specific job function, it has now evolved exponentially to become an economic and [...]

  The post 4 Things You Must Do When Hiring A Medical Contract Manufacturer appeared first on .

  ]]> Most industries in the world today seem to have found the Eureka point that Emile Durkheim had when he wrote on the benefits gained by specialization. A social process that began simply as the allowance of an individual to focus on one specific job function, it has now evolved exponentially to become an economic and industrial process.

  The world is discovering as Emile did, that specialization affects various business processes and not just economic efficiency. The medical industry particularly medical devices cannot boast to be the first to come by this great realization, but is one of the many that is greatly benefiting from it. Specialization in medical devices can be analyzed from various perspectives but in this case, we look at contract manufacturing.

  The advantages of contract manufacturing

  Initially OEM’s would perform all function of releasing a new product from the initial design and development stages, manufacturing the actual product, dealing with raw material, suppliers, market strategies and other business functions.

  The structural changes brought about by the increasing benefits of specialization have seen contract manufacturers deal with the logistics of manufacturing leaving the OEM’s to deal with only the market and product development. The result is an increased efficiency in production and increased quality of released products. OEM’s get to focus on core business areas and accessing dedicated resources.

  In the end, it seems to be a win-win situation for both groups of companies in the medical device industry. However, the complaints and strained relationships between the OEM’s and CM’s have not been minimal. The causes of disagreement factor around control issues, product management, quality control and product delivery.

  

   

  (Photo Credits:  stuant63)

  Therefore, as one looking to outsource a contract manufacture, you need to have the following factors strongly in mind. To avoid the disagreements that arise even before the ink on the dotted line dries, make sure you have the four C’s:

  1. Confirmed competency

  One of the motivating reasons for hiring a contract manufacturer is the reduced labour and technology costs. It only follows therefore, that the hired CM should have the necessary equipment and a competent staff.  Inquire about the technical team and labour force the CM has. A CM with the necessary and adequate staff increases the quality assurance as well as reduces the cost curve on overall production.

  

  (Photo Credits: jurvetson)

  The technology should be their own eliminating chances of further outsourcing or purchases included into the budget. Well-equipped facilities are key in determining the speed of product delivery and its quality. In the event the CM, you desire lacks this, factor in how fast and how much it will cost to have the missing items in place.

  2. Check reliability

  The number of CM’s out there is numerous and a check on their reliability is imperative. Find out about their score form previous clients, products currently in the market and even their financial history. The reviews from clients will inform you on their product delivery and customer relations. Checking the products currently in the market enables you to gauge their quality and ability to deliver on durable and efficient medical devices.

  

  (Photo Credits: allenellisdewitt)

  Finally, their financial history shows the stability of the company. Hiring a CM that is on the verge of collapse will do much damage on your end. Furthermore such contracts extend over long periods and you want to be sure they will still be competent and deliver five years down the line.

  3. Cover the CM’s site

  

  (Photo credits:  jurvetson)

  Most medical device experts advise strongly that all companies wishing to hire a CM should make a point of visiting the production site. This action provides much insight into all of the above factors. You are able to gauge the labour force, assess the equipments. Check on the quality controls in place and view their overall business ethics.

  Some CM may be in foreign location and small firms may find such an action difficult, however, it should be given utmost importance. Especially in the medical industry, viewing the site is critical because as you well know in medicine it is almost always is a matter of life and death.

  4. Confirmed reaction speeds

  One critical factor in manufacturing is timing. You have to learn to be fast enough to release products.

  

  (Photo credits: Creativity+ Timothy K Hamilton)

  Some products are required on demand and it in very important that the CM is in a position to meet this need. The faster they can react and act the better for you and your markets yet keep in mind quality.

  Finally, the CM and the hiring company after the contract is signed should come to an agreement over control and regulatory issues. 

  Chad’s key focus is on 3PL companies and outsourced related services. Medical contract manufacturing holds a special place in his writing since he is interested in the medical sector.

   

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  ]]> http://www.medicalinsurance.org/4-things-you-must-do-when-hiring-a-medical-contract-manufacturer/feed/ 0 http://www.medicalinsurance.org/12-benefits-health-savings-account-hsa/ http://www.medicalinsurance.org/12-benefits-health-savings-account-hsa/#comments Mon, 06 Aug 2012 16:11:16 +0000 MedicalInsurance.org Staff http://www.medicalinsurance.org/?p=2160 Rapidly growing in popularity, a Health Savings Account (HSA) is a medical savings plan available to those enrolled in a high-deductible health plan.  In essence, high deductible insurance policies cost less, and the money saved with this high deductible insurance policy can then be placed into an HSA.  HSA funds are used for medical fees [...]

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  ]]>

  Rapidly growing in popularity, a Health Savings Account (HSA) is a medical savings plan available to those enrolled in a high-deductible health plan.  In essence, high deductible insurance policies cost less, and the money saved with this high deductible insurance policy can then be placed into an HSA.  HSA funds are used for medical fees until the insurance deductible is met.  This includes doctors’ appointments, special treatments, surgeries, medical equipment, optometry, dental work, prescription and over-the-counter medications, and more.  When the medical fees exceed the deductible, your high-deductible insurance policy is triggered.  Once opened, you can place tax-deductible contributions into your HSA, and these funds can then be used to pay future medical expenses.  Many believe that HSAs will help to calm the vicious growth of healthcare expenses, but to truly grasp how financially prudent and beneficial HSAs can be for you and your family, just take a look at the many benefits:

  Lower Premiums

  The premium for an Health Savings Account (HSA) is less than that paid for traditional health insurance.   This higher deductible allows for lower monthly premium payments.  And low premiums encourage those with an HSA to save for future, and sometimes unexpected, healthcare expenses.  Realistically, under an HSA, your insurance company does not cover more routine healthcare.  But once the deductible is met, you then effectively have no out-of-pocket costs, as the money you need is already there, safely tucked away in your HSA account.  And once you reach your HSA yearly contribution limit, you may be able to avoid all additional out-of-pocket payments, even when faced with extraordinary medical costs.  Eliminating the traditional, expensive premium can make the finances of healthcare more manageable for the average working American.

  Roll Over From Year-to-Year

  Deposits to HSAs are not tied to any particular calendar year, and funds that are not withdrawn are automatically rolled over to address medical expenses in the coming years.  These rolled-over funds sitting in your HSA are all-the-while accruing interest, and earnings are sheltered from taxation until withdrawn.

  Your HSA is Owned by You

  All deposits into an HSA automatically become the property of the policyholder, and can be used to pay for qualified medical expenses at any time.

  Accumulation of Assets

  If medical expenses are generally low and you make regular contributions to your HSA, you can accumulate significant assets that can later be used for tax-free health care, and even be used for your future retirement, and all on a tax-deferred basis.  The money not used stays in the account, earning tax-free interest, and thereby making it quite an interesting and new investment tool.  Keep in mind, the interest accrued in this HSA is not taxed.  The money in your account grows free from the threat of federal taxes, just as long as the money is used towards qualified medical expenses, unless you are over the age of 65.

  Income Tax Advantages

  Monetary contributions into your Health Savings Account account are tax deductible.  And these deposits are considered “above-the-line” deductions.  In other words, you are given a 100 percent write-off against your adjusted gross income.   And when you reduce your adjusted gross income, you may qualify for other tax breaks connected to your overall income.

  Tax-Free Withdrawals

  Money withdrawn to pay for medical expenses is done tax free.  If you wait until you reach 65, then the funds can be withdrawn for any reason, including non-medical expenses, without penalty.

  Freedom of Withdrawals

  HSA policyholders do not have to obtain advance approval from a medical insurer in order to withdraw funds, and funds are not subject to income tax if paid towards qualified medical expenses.  And withdrawing funds from your HSA is relatively easy, as the money is yours for all intents and purposes.  Generally, funds from an HSA can be withdrawn by debit card, checkbook, or via a reimbursement process similar to medical insurance. Funds can be withdrawn for any reason, but if not put towards qualified medical expenses, those withdrawals are subject to income taxes and a 20 percent penalty, but only if you are under the age of 65.

  Portability

  Your HSA, and the money within that HSA, stay with you whenever you switch jobs, retire, get laid off, move, etc.

  Pay For Expenses with Pre-Tax Dollars

  HSAs allow you to pay for qualified medical expenses on a pre-tax basis.  Additionally, dental expenses, eye care expenses, and other more alternative treatment expenses, such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, various forms of “energy” healing, and faith healing, can be paid pre-tax.

  Freedom to Pick Your Health Insurance Company

  For all intents and purposes, your HSA is a savings account that also receives special treatment from the IRS, but an HSA is not your health insurance.  You are permitted to buy a high deductible health insurance plan from the insurance company of your choice.  You can even shop around and switch health insurance plans from year-to-year, should you so desire.  In this way, you are not permanently committed to one particular insurance provider.

  Freedom to Choose Your Own HSA

  Many different banks and health savings account providers offer HSAs.  You choose the bank that you prefer to handle your HSA.  Most HSA custodians will also give you the option of placing your HSA money into a savings account, investment account, etc.   These varieties of investment options give HSAs some serious growth potential.

  Right to Choose Your Medical Care

  Receive the healthcare you believe is needed without some unfamiliar third-party determining what benefits will be allowed or withheld from you.  Believe it or not, you can actually become responsible for your own health care, and also determine the source of that care.  Virtually all expenses related to the treatment or prevention of a medical condition can be paid for from your HSA.  You can even use your account to pay Medicare, retiree health benefit, and long-term care premiums.

  James Henning, a freelance writer, has been writing about topics related to medical care and savings. Recently, James has written extensively on medical assistant programs and other medical and health related college degree programs. 

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  ]]> http://www.medicalinsurance.org/12-benefits-health-savings-account-hsa/feed/ 0 http://www.medicalinsurance.org/healthcare-abroad/ http://www.medicalinsurance.org/healthcare-abroad/#comments Thu, 19 Jul 2012 06:00:25 +0000 MedicalInsurance.org Staff http://www.medicalinsurance.org/?p=2091 Motivated by a variety of factors, people have been increasingly looking abroad for their health care, a phenomenon known as “medical tourism.” Whether it’s for cosmetic surgery or lifesaving procedures, the benefits of foreign health care are irresistible to many. Here are some of the reasons medical tourism has exploded in popularity in recent years. [...]

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  Motivated by a variety of factors, people have been increasingly looking abroad for their health care, a phenomenon known as “medical tourism.” Whether it’s for cosmetic surgery or lifesaving procedures, the benefits of foreign health care are irresistible to many. Here are some of the reasons medical tourism has exploded in popularity in recent years.

  Affordability

  No matter what you’re buying, you tend get more bang for your buck in less developed countries. This is true for medical procedures, too; you can save up to 90% by opting to have your procedure done in a foreign land. The lower cost of health care abroad is not only attractive to those pursuing elective procedures like cosmetic surgery—it can sometimes be an absolute lifesaver. For someone who needs a procedure in order to survive but can’t afford it stateside, the more affordable health care in other nations is sometimes the only viable option. Of course, the downside to opting for foreign health care is the danger of potentially encountering the substandard medical standards sometimes found in third world nations.

  Shorter Wait Times

  Sometimes it’s not the cost of a procedure that can be discouraging—it’s the wait time. People may   wait months, or even years, for procedures that range from elective to absolutely essential. This can spell disaster for some, who languish on a wait list as their health declines. It’s no wonder they look to other countries to help speed the process along. For others, it’s not so much a matter of life and death, but that doesn’t mean they necessarily  want to wait around for a procedure that they feel will improve their life.

  Improving Standards

  Part of what might deter some from seeking foreign health care is a negative perception of third world medicine. While this can be warranted in some cases, health care standards in less developed nations have been improving in recent years, and can sometimes be just as excellent as the care you’d receive at home. However, you still have to be very careful about doing your research if you’re going to consider going abroad for your health care.

  Easier International Travel

  Our increasingly globalized world has made international travel faster, cheaper, and more accessible than ever before. Even though it can still be a bit pricey to travel abroad, these costs may be  offset by the reduced price of medical procedures in foreign lands. Some people even see it as a  tourism opportunity too; they might be able to see the sights before they go under the knife, killing two birds with one airline ticket.

  Of course, in a perfect world, we wouldn’t have to travel abroad for health care. There are solutions to the high cost of domestic medicine, however, including improved medical technology, more efficient medical billing and coding techniques, and government initiatives. Hopefully, one of these days we’ll all be able to get the affordable care we need at home, but until then foreign medicine is a popular alternative.

  Madeline Marshall is a freelance writer living in Santa Cruz, CA.

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  ]]> http://www.medicalinsurance.org/healthcare-abroad/feed/ 0 http://www.medicalinsurance.org/5-superfoods-better-weight-loss/ http://www.medicalinsurance.org/5-superfoods-better-weight-loss/#comments Fri, 06 Jul 2012 15:03:50 +0000 MedicalInsurance.org Staff http://www.medicalinsurance.org/?p=2116 You have probably heard the term superfood before. A superfood is any type of food that helps protect against illnesses and improve your overall health. There are a number of superfoods, but there are some that you want to make sure that you include in your diet. Below are five superfoods that you want to [...]

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  You have probably heard the term superfood before. A superfood is any type of food that helps protect against illnesses and improve your overall health. There are a number of superfoods, but there are some that you want to make sure that you include in your diet. Below are five superfoods that you want to make sure that you are eating on a regular basis:

  Berries

  Berries are packed with nutrients that help you get through your day. They also taste great and are low in calories. The anthocyanins are the chemicals that give blueberries their colour. These chemicals help prevent eye conditions, such as cataracts and glaucoma. Anthocyanins also help strengthen the capillaries and improve your circulation. Additionally, blueberries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, so you want to make sure that they are a part of your daily diet. An easy way to get more blueberries into your diet is eat them with your morning cereal. You can also put them inside of your yogurt.

  Oats

  You can start your day off the right way with oats. Oats are not only a great fibre source, but they are also rich in beta glucan. Beta glucan is a type of carbohydrate that reduces the amount of cholesterol that the body absorbs. Oats are also a great source for potassium, the B vitamins, magnesium and vitamin E. If you eat oats for breakfast, you will be able to stay full longer and maintain a healthy body weight.

  Oily fish

  You probably know that omega 3 fatty acids are great for your body. These nutrients help protect your brain, eyesight and reduce the amount of inflammation in the body. Salmon is an example of oily fish that is also rich in iodine, zinc and potassium. You should try to get two or three servings of oily fish per week.

  Lentils

  Lentils are certainly not the most popular food choice because they do not have much of a taste to them. However, you certainly do not want to leave lentils out of your diet. Lentils are rich in fibre and protein. They will also make a good meat substitute. Lentils have a low glycemix index, which means that they are slowly digested by the body and do not cause your blood sugar to spike. They are also rich in vitamin B-1 and folate. You can add lentils to your meat, stew or salads.

  Nuts

  Nuts are considered a superfood because they are high in the good fats. Nuts are also an excellent source of protein and fibre, which helps keep you full longer. Vitamin E, magnesium, potassium and zinc are some of the other minerals found in nuts. Because nuts have different nutritional profiles, make sure that you eat a variety of raw nuts.

  Berries, oats, oily fish, lentils and nuts are just five of the many superfoods available. If you want to know whether a particular food is considered a superfood, check to see whether it is processed. Fruits and vegetables that are superfoods are very colourful – hence they will have very colourful juices. Be on the lookout for another superfood article, so that you can introduce new superfoods to your diet. If you eat plenty of superfoods, you will be well on your way to living a healthy and happy life.

  Dr Ritu G is a doctor and registered dietician, with over 13 years helping patients with their cardiovascular health at private clinics. She also provides in depth raspberry ketone reviews helping consumers find the best health supplements for weight loss.

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  ]]> http://www.medicalinsurance.org/5-superfoods-better-weight-loss/feed/ 0 http://www.medicalinsurance.org/candy-jar-makeover/ http://www.medicalinsurance.org/candy-jar-makeover/#comments Fri, 29 Jun 2012 22:10:02 +0000 MedicalInsurance.org Staff http://www.medicalinsurance.org/?p=2089 It is always nice to have out a candy jar on your desk at work or in your home when people drop by your house or guests arrive from out of town.  For many people an available candy jar is a major temptation and can be a downfall in an otherwise healthy day of eating. [...]

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  It is always nice to have out a candy jar on your desk at work or in your home when people drop by your house or guests arrive from out of town.  For many people an available candy jar is a major temptation and can be a downfall in an otherwise healthy day of eating. If they make one trip, they are likely to make a second or third.  Before they know it they have consumed needless calories that likely go unaccounted.

  Instead of having around a bowl of chocolate or jelly beans, consider putting something healthier in your jar.  You will still get takers without having the constant temptation in front of you to eat chocolate all day.  In fact, it is never a good idea to keep something that you would consider to be a temptation readily available on your desk or on your coffee table.  Of course you should buy and stock food that you enjoy, but there is no need to torture yourself. So, pick options that are things you will enjoy, but will be able to eat in moderation.

  1. Roasted Nuts

     Mixed nuts are an excellent snack, as they are not only a source of protein, but also fiber.  If possible avoid salted varieties as they tend to make you want more than just a couple.

  2. Trail Mix

     A dried fruit and nut combination is a wonderful source of compact energy.  You can easily create your own mix or buy a pre-made mix.  Be creative if you are making your own and use a variety of fruits and nuts. 

  3. Yogurt covered dried fruit

     Yogurt covered raisins or cranberries are a twist on the chocolate covered variety.  They are still sweet and somewhat like candy.  You will still want to eat only a couple of these as you would candy.

  4. Dates

     If you have never tried eating a date by itself, you need to!  At room temperature dates are soft and sweet.  Buy the pitted variety to make eating them easy and guest friendly.  Dates are like natures candy!

  5. Pretzels:

     Pretzels are a snack easily grabbed a couple at a time!  Once again, it is worth seeking out unsalted pretzels in order to minimize your sodium intake.

  6. Seeds

     Shelled sunflower or pumpkin seeds are a tasty snack that can be found in the bulk section of many grocery stores.  For maximum health benefits, sunflower seeds are best eaten raw, but pumpkin seeds (pepitas) do not have a pleasant taste when raw.  If you buy and eat them roasted, choose the unsalted seeds.

  Since all of these suggestions are not individually wrapped you will want to provide a small spoon or tongs to retrieve the treats from your bowl.  If you do not provide one, hands will be placed in the bowl and contaminate the rest of the snacks in the bowl.  Though some co-workers or guests will immediately pass by your healthy candy bowl, others will be excited and appreciate your healthy options!

  Susanna Watters is a writer and cook.  She enjoys writing about recipes, cooking tips, dieting and kitchen safety.  Susanna recently wrote about her favorite recipes using sunflower kernels.

  Image Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jasonyungny/2990239469/

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  ]]> http://www.medicalinsurance.org/candy-jar-makeover/feed/ 0 http://www.medicalinsurance.org/zoonotic-diseases-summer/ http://www.medicalinsurance.org/zoonotic-diseases-summer/#comments Thu, 28 Jun 2012 16:52:10 +0000 MedicalInsurance.org Staff http://www.medicalinsurance.org/?p=2076 Zoonotic diseases are those that are transmissible from animals to people, such as roundworms and toxoplasmosis. While zoonotic diseases are a risk throughout the year, summer poses a greater risk due to the tendency of humans, especially children, to play outdoors in sandboxes and gardens where animals tend to defecate. Protecting your family and your [...]

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  Zoonotic diseases are those that are transmissible from animals to people, such as roundworms and toxoplasmosis. While zoonotic diseases are a risk throughout the year, summer poses a greater risk due to the tendency of humans, especially children, to play outdoors in sandboxes and gardens where animals tend to defecate. Protecting your family and your pets from these diseases is essential, as some can cause blindness or other serious complications.

  Common Zoonotic Diseases

  The most common zoonotic diseases to pose a risk to both pets and people include roundworm, tapeworm, whipworm, hookworm, ringworm, giardiasis, mange, and toxoplasmosis. Most people will become infected with at least one of these during their lifetime. In fact, roundworm infection is the sixth most commonly reported disease in Americans, and hookworms infect more than 4,000 people every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

  Transmission Information

  Zoonotic diseases are typically transmitted from pets to people when animals defecate in sand or soil where humans walk. When people come into contact with contaminated ground, the parasites in the sand or soil penetrate the skin and cause infection. The increased numbers of people outside barefoot explains why these diseases are most common during the summer months.

  Some diseases are transmitted via direct contact with an infected animal. Rabies, for example, is a fatal disease transmitted to humans by a bite from a bat, raccoon, fox, or other rabid animal. Avian influenza and some bacterial diseases are also spread via direct contact.

  Preventing the Spread of Zoonotic Diseases

  Although zoonotic diseases are treatable, they may cause permanent damage in some cases. Because of this, prevention is key. The American Animal Hospital Association recommends professional deworming of pets to help prevent parasitic infection, and regularly treating your home and yard for fleas, lice, and other insects.

  Keep your child’s sandbox covered at all times when not in use, forbid your children from using public sandboxes, wear gloves when gardening or changing pet litter, and wear shoes outdoors at all times. Also, keep food and waste out of your yard to avoid attracting wildlife, and do not ever feed your pet raw or undercooked meat. Doing so increases their risk of contracting parasitic infections.

  If you live in an area with a large number of bats, raccoons, stray cats, and other wildlife, consult your local animal control agency for advice. Trapping and relocating displaced wildlife and fencing in your yard may help keep your children and pets safe from potentially dangerous animals. Also, keep current on local threats to health; most communities regularly release bulletins alerting citizens to an increased risk of disease or animal encounter.

  This important information was provided by VetDepot.com. To learn more about VetDepot, click here.

  Image credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/usgao/6323431516/sizes/m/in/photostream/

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  ]]> http://www.medicalinsurance.org/zoonotic-diseases-summer/feed/ 1 http://www.medicalinsurance.org/short-term-health-insurance/ http://www.medicalinsurance.org/short-term-health-insurance/#comments Wed, 27 Jun 2012 14:16:44 +0000 MedicalInsurance.org Staff http://www.medicalinsurance.org/?p=2048 Health insurance is one of those things you really want to have but hope you never have to use. It is no secret that medical costs in the United States are astronomical and just one visit to the hospital can potentially expose you to financial ruin. If you find yourself with a gap in coverage [...]

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  Health insurance is one of those things you really want to have but hope you never have to use. It is no secret that medical costs in the United States are astronomical and just one visit to the hospital can potentially expose you to financial ruin. If you find yourself with a gap in coverage for any reason, short term health insurance may be the solution to this potentially costly problem, though not for everyone.

  Who Needs Short Term Health Insurance?

  Short term medical insurance may benefit you in several instances and protect you until your long-term coverage resumes. Examples include being in between jobs, new employees waiting to become eligible for their company’s plan (which can be as long as 90 days in some instances), recent college graduates and individuals who lose their dependent status and can no longer be included on their parent’s plan.

  Who is Eligible?

  The exact qualifications will depend on the policy, but generally, this type of insurance is designed for healthy individuals under the age of 65. You are also able to get coverage for spouses and children.

  Length of Coverage

  Short term medical insurance typically lasts from one to six months, but some companies may offer coverage for up to one year. Policies can usually be renewed for a total of 36 months, though some companies may have a limit on the number of renewals. If you file any claims during your policy period, future coverage — should the company grant a new policy– for any conditions diagnosed or treated will most likely be excluded from coverage.

  What is Covered?

  These plans are designed to insure against unexpected illness and accidents. They are really not designed for things such as routine doctor’s visits, preventative care, dental care or vision and plans will typically not offer coverage for such. They also do not provide coverage for costs associated with pregnancy or childbirth.

  What about Pre-Existing Conditions?

  Short-term health insurance policies do not cover pre-existing conditions. What is considered pre-existing can differ by state, but typically includes any condition diagnosed and/or treated within the previous three to five years. If you have a pre-existing condition that requires active treatment and you are about to lose standard coverage, you should consider extending that plan through COBRA, a government act which allows people to maintain employee-sponsored health insurance for a set amount of time after leaving their job, though you will now be responsible for paying the entire premium.

  If you have pre-existing conditions and opt to get a short term medical insurance plan to provide coverage for other issues you may encounter, this will make you ineligible for HIPAA plans, which provide guaranteed coverage for individuals with pre-existing conditions who have trouble finding policies in the private insurance market.

  Payment

  Providers typically offer the option to pay monthly or to make one single payment upfront. If you are unsure about how long you will need coverage, selecting a monthly payment plan may be the better option. If you know for sure how long you will need a policy, a single up-front payment may save you some money over a monthly plan.
   

  Kelli Cooper is a freelance writer who currently is traveling the world, using her online income to fund her journey. She has a passion for health and personal development and primarily works with clients in this arena.

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  ]]> http://www.medicalinsurance.org/short-term-health-insurance/feed/ 0 http://www.medicalinsurance.org/healthiest-people-in-world/ http://www.medicalinsurance.org/healthiest-people-in-world/#comments Tue, 26 Jun 2012 15:51:11 +0000 MedicalInsurance.org Staff http://www.medicalinsurance.org/?p=2039 [INFOGRAPHIC] People who live in the healthiest countries have long life expectancies and low infant mortality rates. The lifestyle characteristics in the countries with the healthiest citizens are not surprising. Try adopting some healthy living habits from the world’s healthiest countries. Many of the citizens in the healthiest countries consume fish and tofu rather than [...]

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  ]]> [INFOGRAPHIC] People who live in the healthiest countries have long life expectancies and low infant mortality rates. The lifestyle characteristics in the countries with the healthiest citizens are not surprising. Try adopting some healthy living habits from the world’s healthiest countries. Many of the citizens in the healthiest countries consume fish and tofu rather than heavily processed meat and choose walking over any other forms of transportation.

  The number one spot for healthy citizens is Iceland. Iceland’s women can expect to live to 83, and the men are not far behind with a life expectancy of 79. Japan comes in second with the life expectancy for women at 86 and at 79 for men. Sweden’s men live to 78, while the women can expect to live to 83. New Zealand’s healthy women can expect to live to 82 and the men to 78. Finland’s citizens also have high lfie expectancies. Finland’s men typically live to 78, and women live to 83.

  Source: Best Public Health Schools

  

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  <a href="http://www.medicalinsurance.org/healthiest-people-in-world/ "><img src="http://www.medicalinsurance.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/healthiest-world_500.jpg" alt="The Healthiest People in the World" width="500" border="0" /></a><br />Via: <a href="http://www.medicalinsurance.org/">Healthiest People in the World by Medical Insurance</a>

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