Livingston Reporting - page 152

Benefits of Medicare, Medigap, and Medicare Advantage Health Insurance

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Most people do not quite understand how Medicare and Medigap work and as much as there are many resources about the two, all the information can be overwhelming and confusing. In this article, we will evaluate each and the benefits you get when you pick one of over the other.

Understanding Medicare and Medigap

Everyone, over the age of 65 in the US can apply for Medicare insurance coverage.  It is important to note is that the coverage is divided into four parts. Part A provides hospital care, Part B covers doctors’ fees, equipment used in the treatment and medical procedures. Part D covers prescription drugs which cost over and above your cover especially for older patients and supplemental insurance plans that take care of medical expenses that exceed your cover so that you don’t have to tap into your savings to get treatment.

Medigap is additional health insurance coverage that participants purchase from private insurance companies to help take care of medical costs that are not covered by your Medicare coverage. These include things like deductibles, co-payments and healthcare should you seek treatment outside the United States. It is important to note that a Medigap policy does not cover dental care, vision care, hearing aids, or eyeglasses.

Medigap policies can only be given to individuals who are already under Medicare cover Part A and Part B. If you already have a Medicare Advantage plan, you cannot qualify for a Medigap plan.

Medigap vs Medicare Advantage: Which will serve your interests better?

  1. Medigap coverage costs more per month but it might cost less than out of pocket payments that you might be forced to pay for a Medicare Advantage plan. On the other hand, a Medicare Advantage plan will insure more medical services and cost less in the long run.
  2. Medicare Advantage covers, limit the choice you have when deciding which doctors to see from which health facilities. Conventional Medigap and Medicare covers on the other gives you more leeway because you can get treatment from any medical center that accepts the cover.
  3. Medicare Advantage cover is operational within specific jurisdictions. Meaning should you need medical attention while away from home, it will not be useful for you. Medigap, on the other hand, covers you in every state in the U.S and even abroad to specified regions.

Choosing the Right Plan For You

Ultimately whether you choose Medigap or Medicare, the key to having the best insurance policy that your money can buy for your specific healthcare needs.

Learn more about Medigap plans and rates at http://emedigap-plans.com.  Medigap Insurance brokers will help you compare Medigap Insurance rates and plans.  To talk to an expert in Medigap coverage call toll free 888-452-7949!

Medigap Insurance Plans

, , , , , , , , , ,

Discover Why You Need Scheduled Repairs to LINAC Systems Prevent Unnecessary Downtime

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

To ensure that medical equipment such as LINAC systems and CT Scanners are fully functional and effective at all times, while preventing unnecessary downtime, scheduled maintenance is recommended.  Scheduled repairs allow for treatment to be scheduled around replacing worn parts and preventative maintenance.  Medical equipment of all varieties, including linear accelerators, is costly and expensive to replace.  Facilities should not wait until they are damaged or dysfunctional to create a plan of action.  There is a significance cost savings in scheduled repairs and pre-planning for replacement.

What Is Scheduled Maintenance?

Scheduled maintenance is the planned component of repair or replacement that is also referred to as preventative maintenance whereby the system is thoroughly inspected to ensure that all parts are functioning properly.  Linear accelerator parts are replaced that are known to wear out when historically known to wear out.

Why Are Scheduled Repairs to LINAC Systems Important?

LINAC systems are incredibly sensitive in terms of handling and maintenance.  They need to be kept functional and unnecessary downtime needs to be avoided especially because on-time treatment is imperative.  If maintenance is not completed and needed maintenance is avoided damage to some key parts of the LINACS or alter the value of your equipment.  Linear accelerators and radiation oncology equipment that is being used in hospitals need to be kept in perfect working order for them to deliver accurate and timely results that guide doctors in the treatment of their patients.

Where to Find Linear Accelerator Parts

A LINAC system is prone to faults, as is all medical equipment, and may require occasional repairs.  To ensure that the system stays functional and is effective, you need to find a service company that offers genuine and functional linear accelerator parts and repair services. Working with a company that has a record of offering professional repair services, when they are needed with access to LINAC parts is crucial.  Working with highly skilled engineers guarantees you of a highly effective LINAC system.

What’s the Cost for Scheduled LINAC Systems Repairs?

The cost of scheduled linear accelerators repairs will depend on the company that you hire to perform service.  Look for a LINAC service company that goes out of their way to ensure timely service, repairs, monitoring, and replacement parts for reasonable.  Seek a company with a proven track record that you can rely on.

Learn more about Radparts and the variety of services and parts they offer to repair medical equipment including: linear accelerators parts, CT scanners parts, linac parts, and radiation oncology equipment at www.radparts.com.  To contact one of our medical equipment repair specialists for parts or service call toll free 877.704.3838 for 24/7/365 support.

RadParts

, , , , ,

Benefits of Point-Entry and Point-of-Use Water Systems

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Safe drinking water is a concern to most homeowners.  Even with existing laws and regulations in place that strive to ensure that everyone has access to clean water many homes have water supplies that are lacking in quality. Measures are often put into place, by homeowners, to increase the quality of the water coming into homes with extra attention being given to the filtration and purification of drinking water.

There are multiple water treatment systems that are available to homeowners, each with their own unique abilities to increase the quality of the water supply in your home.  Two such systems include point of use and point of entry water treatment systems.  Both types of systems are used to soften, condition, purify, or filter that water supply and can be installed for both residential and commercial use.

Using a Point Of Entry Water System

Point of entry water treatment systems connect directly to your homes water line.  A water softener is one type of point of entry water treatment system.  The water softener acts as a central filtration station for the water that is distributed to your entire home or office.  Often a point of entry system is referred to as a whole-house solution for smelly water, hard water, or water with a high mineral count.  These systems are used to remove bad tastes, foul odors, and contaminated before the water reaches your kitchen, bathroom, laundry, or irrigation systems.

Point Of Use System Differnces

On the other hand, a point of use system is installed directly at the source of water retrieval such as out door spickets, kitchen faucets, bathroom sinks, and showers.  Most homeowners choose a point of use system in addition to a point of entry system.  For instance, if your homes water has been found to have high levels of arsenic in it a point of use system arsenic removal system can be installed to prevent arsenic from entering your drinking water where as the water in your showers is fine to use even with low levels of arsenic.  Point of use water treatment systems are often cheaper than point of entry systems as they are only being used to provide filtration to one source.

Benefits of Using Either Option For Water Treatment

There are multiple benefits that homeowners receive from using point of entry and point of use water treatment systems.

  • Point of use and point of entry filtration systems help keep your home safe from contaminants and chemicals that are found at the water source. Installing both systems will help ensure the water is free of contamination both from the source and just before it’s expelled from your tap.
  • A point of use filtration system can work well in isolation and it is an economical filtration system which can only be installed at a single water outlet.
  • When used together, point of use and point of entry systems can help ensure that you and your family have maximum protection from water contaminants which can cause illnesses. Adding a water softener into the system guarantees that your water is not just safe for consumptions but adequate for other use such as bathing and cleaning.

 

At Reynolds Water Conditioning Company, we are here to help make sure our clients don’t buy water treatment systems that they don’t need.  We are here to make sure you find a water softening system that gives you the results you are looking for, whether it is to remove iron or odor from you water; we have a solution that will help!  For more information contact our experts at 800.572.9575 or at our website https://reynoldswater.com.

 

Reynolds Water

, , , ,

Five Common Mistakes Made In Estate Planning

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

As a society we tend to put discussions on topics we deem uncomfortable on the back burner often times until its too late.  This is often that case when people become unable to take care of themselves sooner than imagined or die unexpectedly. The topic of death or not being able to take care of oneself are awkward and often make the people involved anxious however, these discussions are necessary.

Estate planning is important for all adults; which includes any person eighteen and over.  Individuals need to legally render control over their assets and medical decisions to beneficiaries that will be in charge of handling the decision making that comes after death.  This person, or individuals, will be in charge of wrapping up your lives details including money in your bank account, selling your home, paying off your debts, distributing assets, and closing out accounts.  This can all be done through an estate plan that is created in conjunction with an attorney.  An estate planning lawyer will help you avoid the common mistakes that are often found in estate planning.

Not Planning at All

Not having an estate plan in place is one of the biggest mistakes that most individuals will make.  Failing to have in place legal documents that lay out the plan you have in mind for life after your death, for whatever reason, is a huge mistake.  Fact is, death is inevitable and unpredictable.  This is not a pleasant thought however we can make our passing easier on loved ones by setting a plan in place to ensure that the distribution of your assets is hassle free.

Procrastination

This is the scenario whereby an individual keep saying that he is soon doing an estate plan but keeps on moving the time in which they should do it back further and further. No one knows when eventualities will occur. When you least expect something to happen is when it most often.  It is therefore important to set a time frame to create your estate plan and be disciplined enough to stick to it.

Not Updating the Estate Plan

It could be that when one was doing estate planning, the family was still small. With time, children are born, issues like divorce and deaths occur and other family matters. When an individual fails to update the plan, this may result into complications in future and especially after the death of the owner. It is crucial with every major change that your estate plan is updated.  Once a year an estate plan review should be scheduled with your attorney to go over any and all changes over the course of the year or expected changes.

Not Finding the Best Legal Advice

Not everyone understands the law provisions for estate planning. Lots of individuals think that they can just write down what they want to happen and that the law will automatically respect your wishes.  However, this is not how probate works.  In order to be sure that the events playout after your death as you desire you need a competent attorney, specializing in estate planning, to offer legal advice and to assist you in creating a viable plan of action.

Not Finding the Right Beneficiaries

Some people give the names of their kids as their beneficiaries, but this may not work out well in future. Others think that their spouses are the best beneficiaries. It is of great importance that one keenly takes time to understand the right beneficiaries during estate planning, who will take care of his properties while he is gone and that will be in a position after your passing to do so.

Learn more about attorney Sean J. Nichols and the legal services he provides for clients including: estate planning, elder law issues, Medicaid planning, elder care, probate law, guardianships, and power of attorney (POA) at www.seanjnichols.com.  To contact the offices of Sean J Nichols, call 734.386.0224 today.

 

Sean J. Nichols

, , , , ,

Qualities to Look for In a Roofer

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

It doesn’t matter if you are having a house built, a new building, a shop, or a plaza you will need to find a roofing contractor.   No matter what type of structure is being constructed a roof is a vital part of the building.  From residential homes to massive malls, a roof is needed to protect the structural integrity of the space and the contents within.

A roofing contractor will critically analyze the architecture of the building and present the acceptable options in different roofing materials that would be acceptable to use the project at hand.  It is vital that when choosing a contractor to install your new roof that you choose the best possible roofer available.  To do this, you will need to do some leg work.  It is imperative to work with a roofer that not only has a solid reputation in the industry but is also licensed and insured.   Below you will find several qualities to look for when hiring a roofer.

Licensed and Insured

The roofing company that you hire for any new roof or roof repair should be both licensed and insured.  Look for a roofing contractor with a stellar reputation within the community.  When a roofer is insured you have assurance that you will not be help responsible for any damages that occur on or to your property while you new roof is being installed.  It is a safety net that needs to be in place to avoid liability.  When a roofer is licensed it means that the contractor has a license issued by the state which certifies the individual as a roofer.

Understand Your Vision

With any contractor it is important that they work with you and not against you.  You are looking for an individual that considers your worries and queries throughout the process.  It is crucial that you are satisfied with the physical labor as well as the roofing contractors understanding of your project while treating you, the client, with the utmost care.

Consistency

An important aspect to keep in mind is that many roofing contractors initially charge you less but as the work comes in mid-process, they demand more and more additional charges. This not only counts as fraud conducted by the roofers from backing off their initial agreement but also serves as a reason of great agitation and frustration for the one in hiring position. Make sure that you make clear terms prior to the beginning of the work with an agreement signed on agreeable terms of both parties.  Reputable roofing contractors will lay out terms in clear, concise terms.

The right roofer for building the roof is as vital as building any other part of the house. A roof is characterized by being light enough to remain steady on the walls and providing protection. Hence, a roofer should be able enough to comprehend your desires and execute them in physical form with utmost responsibility and accurate precision.

Learn more about Home Pro Roofing and their vast line of custom roofing options installed by professional roofing contractors including: asphalt shingle roofing, metal roofing, roof repair, and new roof installation at www.homeproroofingmi.com.  Our roofing contractors offer services throughout Michigan including: Kalamazoo, Brighton, Lansing, and the surrounding areas.

Home Pro Roofing MI

, , , , ,

Increasing Business with Software Customized to Your Company

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Custom software is a key element to the everyday operations of a variety of businesses.   Some businesses can purchase software off the shelf and make it work but to truly improve the performance of your business and grow, custom software is crucial.  Customized software programming has become more and more common as business owners seek to become more efficient.  Software customized to meet your specific needs is critical to the success of your company.     Owners can increase business with customized software because it is created to meet specific needs and those of your target market.

Improved Business Efficiency

Most off the shelf software is so generic that it does not address the specific needs of a business.  When the software you’re using is inefficient, your business practices will be inefficient too. A custom software will help solve the unique issues your business is facing, enhance employee collaboration and ultimately improve your business’ efficiency.

Security

Off the shelf software is easily accessed and manipulated by outsiders and that means confidential business information will always be at risk of exposure, theft or misuse. Custom software programming ensures that your customized software is impossible or extremely difficult to crack. Clients want to do business with entities that protect their information from being misused so ultimately you stand to get more business that competitors using off the shelf software to conduct business.

Better Return on Investment

While off the shelf software might seem cheap, the amount of money you spend in the long term will be much higher than it would cost you to have the customized software. For example, the hardware costs and fees you pay monthly for the off-shelf solutions will eventually be more than the one-off cost you pay for custom software programming. In addition, having a custom solution will help save the time it takes to execute daily tasks and drive sales.

Competitive Advantage

Off the shelf, software is designed for the masses. Meaning they are generic and simplified. What this means for you is that such software will not have the depth needed to meet your business’ unique needs and enhance efficiency. Custom software programming helps create unique and more efficient software that will give your business an edge over competitors.

There are many all-inclusive IT companies that can design the perfect software for your business.  The initial investment can be more than what you would pay for off the shelf software however, it will provide much more value by making work efficient and ultimately this will translate to more business and greater profits.

Learn more about Creative Programs and Systems, CPS, and the IT solutions they provide including IT consulting, computer consulting, network consulting, networking, server installation, IT disaster recovery, computer repair, virus removal, malware removal, computer tune ups, data backup systems, computer troubleshooting, structured cabling, low voltage wiring, website design, graphic design, logo design, website hosting, search engine placement, iphone app programming, android app programming, and custom programming at www.cpsmi.com.  To contact one of our IT experts, call 810.224.5252 today or via email at info@cpsmi.com.

Creative Programs and Systems

, , , , ,

5 Secrets to Help You Sell Your Home

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The main focus for homeowners and realtors alike when selling a home is to get the best offer on the home within the shortage amount of time possible.   Below are five secrets that can help sell your home quickly and with a favorable offer.

  • Presentation

A home should not be put on the market unless it is 100% presentable, has no pending repairs, is priced appropriately, and is ready for a buyer.  Many times, buyers only take couple of months to buy a home.   The last thing you want to do is put your home on the market before it is ready to sell as many buyers won’t have a proper perception of your home.  They are looking for a home that is ready for them to buy.  Sellers will lose out if they market their home before necessary repairs are done.

  • Priced Right

Another important element is pricing your home correctly for the current market.  A real estate agent can help you determine the worth of your home.   Often homeowners price their homes based on how much they need to make from it instead of how much it’s worth.  If your home is overpriced for the market, it will be harder to find a buyer. If it’s underpriced on the other hand, potential buyers might think there are underlying issues within the home.  Buyers do not want to buy a home that constantly requires repairs and underpricing a home often gives this perception.

  • Curb Appeal Matters

The appearance of your home inside and out matters.  When potential buyers come to view your home, they start making their decision.  It doesn’t matter how big and beautiful your house is, if the yard is unkempt, dust has accumulated, the pool is a mess, and so forth potential buyers will not be attracted to it. You want to get good offers for your home? Make sure it is presentable from the day you put in on the market.

  • Find a Local Real Estate Agent

Find a local real estate agent to assist in the sale of your home.  Find a realtor that will assist you in your ultimate goal; finding a buyer quickly who is willing to offer the best offer.  Talk to local realtors, talk to other homeowners, and determine who the professional is that you need to be working with to sell your home.  It is important to find a realtor that you have determined to be professional and will do a good job for you.  Ask the hard questions.  You are paying for the services that a realtor is providing so be sure to get the return on your investment you are looking for.

  • Cozy and Welcoming

When your home is up for sale it is important to create an environment that is welcoming, easy to show, and comfortable.  Buyers often making their decision based on how they feel within the home.  Create an environment that makes your home easy to show by ensuring all rooms are accessible, that there is no clutter that hinders getting around the home, that the lighting, and smells within the home are all pleasant.

Learn more about C21 Lady of the Lakes Realtors and the numerous services they offer including: buying a new home, selling a home, or renting a home at www.ladyofthelakes.com.  To contact one of our real estate agents call 734-426-6060 today.

C21 Lady of the Lakes

, , , , , , , , ,

The Positive Effect Eco-Friendly Product Labeling Has on Your Company’s Brand

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The world is more conscious of the part they play in making the environment a better or worse place to live in. Laws have been put in place to encourage and ensure that companies use best practices in their processes to conserve the environment. While these laws are standard, a company can improve its brand and grow business by going an extra mile to show their commitment to the environment.

Flexible packaging should ensure easy access to the product, it should keep the product safe from damage and contamination, and is made from eco-friendly materials, that makes it an even better option in package and labeling design.

Labeling your products as eco-friendly on the flexible packaging has many positive effects that include:

  • A Competitive Edge

Customers today are attracted by services and products that are eco-friendly. Choosing to label your products as eco-friendly will give you an edge over the competition. However, it is important to note that you can’t just label them as such for the sake of it, there are laws that govern what products can be deemed as eco-friendly and which ones don’t.

  • Improved Sustainability

Companies take pride in conserving the environment by not depending on natural resources. Often, using alternative materials can make the products more affordable and even when it’s not cheaper, the long-term benefits are overwhelmingly good. Because of climate changes, dependence on natural products means that in the long run you might not have adequate materials to produce goods.

  • Re-Using and Recycling Saves Money

Flexible packaging that has the eco-friendly labelling on it encourages those who buy the product to recycle and re-use it. This will help conserve the environment, but it also means that your customers get added advantage when they buy your product because the flexible packaging can be reused, recycled or reduced.

  • Stand-Out from The Competition

Many companies don’t use the eco-friendly labels on their flexible packaging. The reason most don’t do it is because they do not use eco-friendly practices in their processes. So, if your company is putting attempts to be environment friendly, then you should tell the world about it so that they know your products/services are a better option.

Don’t miss out on growing your business and attracting more clients by failing to use the eco-friendly labels on your product’s flexible packaging.

Learn more about Anchor Printing and their vast line of custom product label & packaging options including: Shrink Sleeve Labels, Flexible Packaging, Roll-Fed Labeling, Pressure Sensitive and Cut & Stack Labels at http://www.anchorprinting.com.  To contact one of our label specialists call toll free at 800.748.0209 or via email at info@anchorprinting.com.

Anchor Printing

, , , , ,

Top 5 Reasons to Purchase Refurbished Radiation Oncology Equipment

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

If there is anything in the world that can slightly help cancer patients, it maintains a special place in the world of medical equipment. Linear accelerators along with other oncology equipment, for this very reason, and for being very highly technological, are rather expensive. Not all medical centers that help cancer patients can afford to buy new oncology equipment. In order to help the maximum number of cancer patients treated, we recommend buying reconditioned linear accelerators. What most people think is that a refurbished linear accelerator will be faulty or may end up costing more in maintenance than a new purchase however, that isn’t true at all. Here are the top 5 reasons why you should actually opt for a refurbished linear accelerator.

Prevent Downtime In Treatment

The world isn’t a perfect place. Mishaps do happen, and they happen at the most unexpected times. If your medical center cannot afford more than one linear accelerators at one time, you can easily opt for one new and one reconditioned linear accelerator.  Equipment that isn’t faulty will be there as a backup option in case something goes wrong with the first priority equipment.

Treat More Patients

Look at it this this way: you have the budget of one new linear accelerator. That will only treat the number of patients that single equipment can handle at a time. On the other hand, you can utilize your budget to get two refurbished linear accelerators and help twice the number of patients. You’ll save some bucks and get something just as good as new.

Budget Allows for More Purchases

You can save money by purchasing refurbished equipment. This will give you room to improve your other facilities that are also required by the patients. Other than equipment, you require qualified staff, well-maintained area, and also other technology. You can do it all by staying in your budget if you opt for reconditioned equipment rather than purchasing everything new.

Financial Planning

Running a medical center isn’t just about investing in equipment or treating patients. Although that is the main aspect, there are other things to look into as well. As a business, you need to make sure that you have enough financial backup to survive even if the economic conditions go down. For this reason, you shouldn’t spend on just a single piece of new equipment.

Peace of Mind

If you’re making a well-thought purchase, your reconditioned linear accelerator will give you no trouble. Buying from a reliable source will allow you to have the peace of mind just the same way as you would when you would have bought brand new equipment. All this while you would have saved money, and probably used those dollars in another important aspect of the treatment. Your experience would be the same, whether you buy new equipment or a refurbished one.

 

With these 5 reasons, you shouldn’t have any more thinking to do. Start your search for a reconditioned linear accelerator in good condition right away.

Acceletronics is an independent service company dedicated to delivering the best equipment performance and service reliability from Linear Accelerators and CT Scanners across all major brands and models. Learn more about Acceletronics and their selection of new and refurbished linear accelerators and CT scanners today at http://www.acceletronics.com.  To contact one of our LINAC experts call 610.524.3300.

 

Acceletronics

, ,

Improving Eyesight One LASIK Surgery at a Time

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There are many solutions when it comes to correcting vision problems.  Some individuals choose to wear contacts and glasses to make their day to day sight better while others investigate more convenient vision correction methods such as laser vision correction including: LASIK, PRK, and LASEK. There are a number of benefits that come with choosing surgery to correct their vision on a more permanent basis.  Although glasses and contacts have been the solution for vision problems since the 1300’s, laser eye surgery offers an innovative approach that allows users proper vision without the use of daily aides.

As with any surgery, the benefits must outweigh the drawbacks or people would not opt to participate as is the case when it comes to laser vision correction surgery.  If patients have specific questions, detailed to their vision situation directly, they should meet with an eye surgeon for a consultation.  Below we will focus on the benefits that most patients receive after correcting their vision with LASIK, LASEK, or PRK.

Improved Eyesight

In studies that have been performed LASIK has proven to be effective, meaning patients have improved vision after the procedure.  For over eighty-five percent of patients 20/20 eyesight returns while over ninety-five percent achieve 20/40.  Irrespective, the results received through laser vision correction surgery are quiet stunning. For most participants an impressive upgrade in vision is had.

Lasting Results

Perfect vision is not obtained instantaneously after LASIK, in fact it may take several months for your vision to adjust to its new normal.  However, once your vision has settled into its new normal the change will be permanent.  Eyesight deterioration from age is possible later down the road but is easily corrected with a follow up surgery.

Quick Recovery

Although you won’t be driving yourself home from the surgery most LASIK patients return to life as normal in as little as twenty-four hours.  Unlike most types of surgery, eye surgery is relatively simple as far as the recovery process is concerned.

Barrier Free Vision

Although there is a cost associated with laser vision surgery, it is far less than the amount of money individuals will spend over a lifetime paying for eye exams, glasses, and contacts.  Each year individuals need to replace glasses and contacts.  This can add up over time not to mention can become quite a hassle if misplaced or broken.  With LASIK you will never have to worry about losing a contact, breaking your glasses or what not.

People started to become aware of the benefits of LASIK around the 80’s with an increase in popularity in the mid 90’s.  LASIK is a common procedure that gives patients the freedom of vision without eyewear.  With this surgery there is no need to be concerned with glasses and contacts and how they will affect spur of the moment plans like swimming.

If you are looking to reduce or even get rid of your eye glasses and/or contacts let us at Rohr Eye & Laser Center help you! We offer several types of LASIK eye surgery including LASEK, PRK, AK, CK, Cataract surgery and more. We perform all these eye laser treatments with state of the art equipment. We are a leader in laser vision correction, and our goal is to help you achieve superior vision. Contact us today or view our website http://www.michiganlasik.com/  to schedule an appointment.

Michigan Lasik

, , , , , , , , ,