Germs can be dangerous, causing a wide range of infectious diseases. Some people go to extremes to avoid germs, but for most of us, we just try to be careful, while trying not to think about it. But we can’t escape germs, even in places we think are clean. Did you know doctor offices and […]
Questions Seniors Should Ask Before Surgery
Surgery is scary for everyone. What if something goes wrong? Is it possible you won’t wake up? What if it doesn’t help or makes your condition worse? These questions go through the minds of most people before they agree to a surgical procedure. But, for older patients, there is a higher risk of complications and […]
Tips for Handling Medical Bills
As if dealing with an illness or injury isn’t stressful enough, handling the bills and insurance paperwork can add an additional layer of stress to your life. Maybe the doctor’s office or hospital sent you a bill with a mistake. Or maybe your insurance company unexpectedly denied your claim. No matter your situation, it’s important […]
Benefits of Palliative Care
If you or a loved one are dealing with a serious illness, palliative care might just be the thing you need! Many people have not heard of palliative care or are unsure about the benefits of palliative care. But, it’s worth your time to learn more because the benefits can be tremendous. What is palliative […]
Pros and Cons of Hospice Care
No one likes to discuss end-of-life care and death. But it’s worth having the difficult conversations because patients should be as comfortable as possible, receiving the level of treatment they desire. What are the pros and cons of hospice care? Take the time to learn more so you can make an informed decision about your […]
Electronic Health Records Add to Doctors’ Stress
It has become a common sight – doctors with their laptops or tablets, conversing with patients while navigating through EHRs (Electronic Health Records), searching and typing. Does the widespread use of Electronic Health Records add to doctors’ stress? EHRs have certainly impacted the type of interactions we have with our doctors. Do EHRs make it […]
The Pros and Cons of Electronic Health Records
We’re all accustomed to seeing our doctors use their computer or tablet during appointments and in the hospital since Electronic Health Records (EHRs) are widely used. Is this a good development? Is the information in EHRs accurate? Do EHRs add to doctor stress, potentially impacting care? What are the pros and cons of Electronic Health […]
Smartphones as Medical Devices
We love our smartphones. Probably too much. It’s hard for me to roam around my house, never mind leave, without my smartphone. We rely on them for a wide range of functions, from email and internet access to banking and restaurant reviews. But now a new era is here, and our smartphones are used as medical […]
Is There Gender Bias in Medicine?
As much as we’d like to believe otherwise, men and women are not treated equally. According to the ACLU, “ongoing struggles include ensuring equal economic opportunities, educational equity, and an end to gender-based violence.” But did you know that women are more likely to be misdiagnosed? Or that women may not receive the most effective […]
How Safe are Medical Devices?
You know you’re taking a risk if you’re skydiving or bull riding. But did you know there are serious risks associated with many medical devices? Maybe your diabetes leads to a recommendation for an insulin pump. Or, perhaps years of constant hip pain led you to a surgeon’s office to discuss a hip replacement. Or, […]