Livingston Reporting - page 63

Side Gigs Common Among Radiologists and Other Doctors During Pandemic

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According to a recently published survey by Medscape, roughly 40 percent of radiologists and other physicians have side jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic. These second gigs allow physicians to create an additional income stream or pursue a creative passion project. More than 2,500 United States physicians were surveyed about their jobs, how much they are currently earning, and what they hope to achieve in the future.

Partly due to the COVID-19 income-related loss, more doctors and medical professionals began looking for side gigs. Roughly one in four doctors have a side job in 2021, though the interest in a second job began rising throughout 2020. Nearly 45 percent of those surveyed who picked up a side job during the past year cited pandemic-related hardships.

David I. Beran, DO, emergency physician and writer, said, “I have seen physicians pursue side gigs more and more in recent years. Sometimes they are clinical jobs (moonlighting), sometimes they are not clinical but medical (file review or expert witnessing), and sometimes they are neither (business, investing, real estate, etc.).”

About twice as many men in the medical field have a second job (65 percent) than women (33 percent). Nisha Mehta, MD, a radiologist, founded Physician Side Gigs, a Facebook group with over 80,000 verified physicians interested in pursuing creative ventures or different revenue sources. The group regularly discusses jobs, business skills, financial topics, life in medicine, and physician burnout.

Mehta said, “The data are actually very encouraging when you consider antiquated stereotypes of male and female physicians. To me, it states that despite the challenges that female physicians traditionally face in finding the bandwidth to balance work, family and a side gig … women physicians are finding innovative ways to create fulfillment and flexibility in their careers.”

Between March and May, when the survey was conducted, approximately 75 radiologists were included. Of those, roughly 37 percent said they are working a side job compared to 63 percent who are not. Medical activities such as consulting, expert testimony, chart reviews, and moonlighting are popular alternatives.

Mehta said, “In a healthcare landscape that’s increasingly challenging, the side gig offers physicians an opportunity to do something on their own terms as well as use a different part of their brains. This leads to new skill sets, networks and mental breaks from the stress of their day jobs, all of which can be tremendously fulfilling and ultimately counter burnout.”

Acceletronics is an industry leader in delivering the best equipment performance and service reliability from CT Scanners and Linear Accelerators across all major brands and models. Call 610-524-3300 or visit our website: https://www.acceletronics.com.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Acceletronics

New State Electric Co. Website Goes Live!

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State Electric Company has a new website! We plan to keep you up-to-speed with the latest news, tips/tricks, updates, and information on our blog. State Electric Co. is proud to be a full-service electrical contractor for residential and commercial properties. Our team consists of project managers, engineers, safety managers, quality assurance managers, and site supervisors, giving you an organized, efficient, and safe delivery of your electrical needs.

Check out some of our renowned services:

  • Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger Install: Need an electric vehicle charger installed or want to purchase one? Unsure about the varying levels? Look no further! State Electric Co. is a certified installer for all available EV chargers on the market today. We’ve designed and installed EV chargers for many customers from municipal, commercial/industrial complexes, the hospitality industry, apartments/multi-unit housing, and residential homes.
  • Solar Panel Install: going green? We can size and install a solar panel system that fits your budget. With the ever-changing needs for electricity on demand, solar energy can offset your costs and deliver consistent electrical power using solar panels and battery storage. At State Electric, our design team works with customers and provides solutions that will offset high electrical costs while meeting constant power demands. Whether it is rooftop, ground mount panels, or tied into battery storage and phased with a backup generator; we can provide options for your energy needs.
  • Automatic Backup Generators: Standby generators ensure that you’ll never be without power. Get yours today! Mother nature and the increasingly high demand of the electrical grid causes inconsistencies in our power supply, usually in the least opportune time. The team at State Electric can provide solutions for backup generators and automatic transfer switches to provide a seamless transition when power is unavailable from the grid.
  • Battery Powerwalls: Recharge and store extra solar power generated through your insolation panel system.
  • Lighting: From parking lots to new construction lighting installation and upgrades, contact us for a job done right!
  • Electrical Service Upgrades: Have an obsolete electrical system that keeps shorting out? We’ll modernize your components safely.
  • Electrical Service & Repairs: Our qualified and fully insured electrical contractors prioritize safety and will put you at peace of mind.
  • Security Camera Installations: Whether for a home, business, or municipality, our crew installs high-quality security camera systems.

Even more of our services include:

  • Design/Engineering/Build
  • New Construction
  • Remodeled Homes and Businesses
  • Smart Electric Tech Design
  • Telephone/TV/Alarms, etc.
  • Fire Alarms
  • Panel Upgrades
  • Data Lines
  • Access Controls

To learn more or schedule an appointment for one of our services, contact State Electric Company  today!

State Electric Company is a leader in the electrification of the nation. Our highly educated and experienced team of professionals uses industry-leading software technology and has partnered with manufacturers to deliver affordable solutions for all your electrical needs. With our combined, extensive knowledge in renewable energy sources through solar and battery storage, the team at State Electric works together to provide customers, large and small, with efficient electrical solutions. We specialize in smart electrical panels, EV chargers, battery storage, microgrids, and emergency generators with automatic transfer switches to ensure that all your energy needs are affordable and safely met.

Contact us today to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

State Electric Co.

A Complete Guide to Emergency/Prepper Kits

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Are you familiar with a BOB? Do you have a GHB? How about an EDC? There are plenty of acronyms for emergency kits, but do you know what they stand for? Why do you need them, and when? The main answer is purpose…once you understand how they are all used, you’ll be ready to stock up on what you need.

EDC: Everyday Carry
This kit comprises everyday items that help you handle inconveniences or unexpected emergencies. These bags are small, portable, and should be created according to your needs. 

BOB: Bug Out Bag
This ubiquitous name for supplies in the prepping world contains supplies to sustain a person who must leave home for a temporary reason, roughly 72 hours. A BOB is typically tailored to an individual, though they sometimes have communal items. This is also commonly referred to as a 72-Hour Kit.

GHB: Get Home Bag
These bags are useful for widespread – but local – disasters where driving or using public transportation is impossible. Consider this bag when you can get home after a short period, like after a few hours or overnight.

GOOD: Get Out of Dodge (Bag)
This is the next level up from a BOB. Sustaining you for a few weeks or months away from home, this bag should be designed to evacuate ahead of a disaster while still planning to return home when it’s safe. You should plan on having amenities such as food, water, and shelter available.

INCH: I’m Never Coming Home Bag
These are useful in situations where you would be forced to leave home and never return. This long-term survival bag would be helpful in a total societal collapse. The contents would be similar to a BOB, but the INCH is full of more items for cooking, clothing options, and shelter supplies.

Vehicle Kit
Fairly self-explanatory, this kit stays in the car and contains items for vehicle repair. Tools for repairs, safety equipment, and extreme weather gear should be included. Also add food, water, and other supplies you might need if you were stranded or before help arrives.

Work Kit
If you were stranded at work, what would you do? Think through a scenario that involves your workplace, and that’s what’s in this bag. Ideally, this bag would stay at work.

Looking for some emergency kits? Check out our stock at Wolf Survival today!

Wolf Survival Gear is a hub for all your prepping and survival needs. We are a trusted resource for concerned families, avid hunters, or serious preppers. Make us your one-stop shop and prepare now, before you’ll need it later. Visit our website or e-mail us today for more information.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Wolf Survival Gear

What’s the Difference Between AWD and 4WD?

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All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and 4-Wheel Drive (4WD) are actually two different things. In the past, if you wanted four driven wheels, you were limited to full-size SUV’s and trucks. Nowadays, 4WD has become more sophisticated, and AWD is getting more robust and gaining in popularity. Both are available in cars and SUVs and account for more than half of new vehicle sales in the U.S.  

All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

When a vehicle is equipped with an AWD system, the drivetrain’s power gets transferred to all four wheels. There are several AWD systems available, some full-time and others with on-demand AWD. The newer technology allows torque to engage on all four wheels but can allocate more torque to the rear wheels when the drivetrain computer senses traction loss. Systems that are primarily front-wheel drive will supply torque to the rear wheels through the AWD processor if the front wheels slip.

The different types of AWD include part-time, full-time, automatic, and selectable.

Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)

Through the years, 4WD has become more refined, including a high and low-range setting. Low range is useful for mud, sand, or heavy snow. High range is the default setting for everyday asphalt driving. More advanced systems offer a selection of modes for drivers to control how much power and torque are distributed between the front and rear axles.

AWD and 4WD are great options for those who regularly drive in challenging conditions, including harsh winters or off-roading. These vehicles are heavier and more complex to service.

Still have questions or want to service your AWD or 4WD vehicle?

Contact the car care experts at Team CAMC today.

Team CAMC is your Complete Auto Maintenance Center. For over 30 years, we have followed a single guiding principle: we never push or sell services a vehicle doesn’t need.  Our team of trained technicians welcomes you like family and discusses all types of oil and fluid changes offered. Critical points are reviewed through a 13-point inspection to ensure your vehicle is ready for the next adventure on the road ahead. Contact us today to schedule the professional service you deserve from a team you trust.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Uncategorized

How long does LASIK last?

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One of the most frequently asked questions about LASIK is: “How long does it last?” Close runner up: “Is it permanent?” The answer to both questions is yes, LASIK is permanent. However, there is a slight chance you will have to wear glasses again in the future. Since your body changes through age, laser vision correction procedures cannot prevent deterioration to the ocular area.

Between the ages of seven and 23, vision changes are expected as the eyes develop and mature. Issues such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism can come and go, increase and decrease, etc., as long as the eye undergoes changes. Once vision has not changed in a year, it is considered fully mature.

However, just like the rest of your body, the eyes continue changing through time. For most people, the subtle changes are not a factor until the age of 40. At this time, people report their near-range of vision being blurry. The age-related alterations in vision are dubbed presbyopia. In time, the eye lens stiffens and becomes cloudy, which is called a cataract.

Laser vision correction procedures do not treat the lens; rather, they reshape the surface of the eye, which is known as the cornea. LASIK alters the surface of the eye permanently and can improve your vision for years. Your vision will improve, whether it be from nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. The laser reshapes the cornea, correcting the imperfections that create vision issues.

Occasionally, nearsightedness or farsightedness can occur with people going through presbyopia. Purchasing a pair of glasses to last the rest of your lifetime might not be out of the question. So yes, the eyes can change, but they won’t return to being as bad as they were before LASIK.

A recent study in the Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery concluded quality-of-life and satisfaction rates stayed high five years following LASIK, according to patient-reported data. The study also reported over 94 percent of patients were not wearing distance prescription lenses five years after undergoing LASIK.

To learn more about LASIK or schedule a consultation, contact the experts at Rohr Eye & Laser Center today.

Rohr Eye & Laser Center offers the most advanced technology available to provide personalized and extraordinary care to our patients. Whether your goal is to maintain or improve your natural vision, we are here to help you. Call us at 877-579-0202 or visit https://www.michiganlasik.com/ to schedule an appointment today.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Michigan Lasik

America’s Water Towers Are Contaminated

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A recent article published by USA TODAY investigates the issues with water towers across America. This in-depth analysis is imperative, as most Americans take clean water for granted. Water towers generally serve as the most visible – and vulnerable – point in public water supplies. Openings as tiny as a few millimeters could be a factor in the difference between consuming clean or contaminated water.

Investigators are known to find dead snakes, mice, and raccoons floating in water storage tanks, along with pigeon feces and other animal excrements. Experts estimate that contaminated tap water causes tens of millions of illnesses yearly, leading to nearly 1,000 deaths throughout America; however, the number of deaths caused by water tower contamination is unknown, as this is not tracked.

USA TODAY and Indiana University’s Arnolt Center for Investigative Journalism started a joint investigation that found disparities in water tank management. As a result, the public is at risk for multiple risks, especially in the absence of federal regulations. Each state has the authority to determine how to handle inspection frequency, cleaning, and more. Surprisingly, some states appear to have no rules whatsoever. Some are only checked every three to five years due to federal law.

Enforcement of the rules can be lax; a city investigation stemmed from customer complaints found a 50-year maintenance gap in Delray Beach, Florida. According to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, water storage tanks must be inspected and cleaned every five years. The water storage tank of Delray Beach, Florida, had not been cleaned since it was built in 1972.

“Nobody could remember a time when those [water] tanks were cleaned,” said George Gretsas, Delray’s city manager at the time, after inquiring with staff members. “It’s widespread corruption within the utilities department. They regularly cover themselves up,” he added.

Some examples of water tank maintenance across the United States:

  • In 1993, 650 people were sick – seven died – from a salmonella outbreak in Gideon, Missouri. Apparently, bird droppings entered the water tank through a vent.
  • Roughly 1,300 people were sick, and one died, after a salmonella outbreak in 2008, stemming from the water storage tank in Alamosa, Colorado.
  • Two five-year-old boys died in 2002 after bathing in tap water contaminated by Naegleria fowleri, a microscopic organism that infects the brain. In an investigation, a chlorinated water storage tank in Peoria, Arizona, was found to be the culprit.

There are countless stories regarding contaminated water tanks and millions of cases of gastrointestinal or respiratory illnesses that people inadvertently got from their drinking water.

Read the full report from USA TODAY to learn more. To purify your drinking water and protect yourself and your family from contaminants, contact the experts at Reynolds today.

Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at www.reynoldswater.com or call 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Reynolds Water

Use of Radiation Consultation Service (RCS) Has Risen During the Pandemic

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During the coronavirus pandemic, most radiology practices shuttered or scaled back drastically. One service that stood out from the rest pivoted and focused on Radiology Consultation Service (RCS) to provide consultation and ensure permanence of care.

A recent study published in Clinical Imaging followed investigators from Weill Cornell Medical College at New York Presbyterian Hospital, who clarified how their RCS (launched in 2013) expanded through COVID-19.

Melissa Reichman, M.D., a women’s imaging specialist and assistant professor of radiology at Weill Cornell, led the team. Reichman said, “At a time when radiology experienced an unprecedented decrease in imaging studies during the initial peak of the COVID-19 crisis, the RCS at our institution, in contrast, showed a notable increase in services provided. Our experience demonstrates the value of an organized radiology consultation service and may serve as an example for other institutions to adopt a similar program, as patient-centered care is at the forefront of radiology.”

The number of consultations, as well as screening mammograms and ultrasounds, were compared from January 1, 2020, through July 31, 2020, to the same 2019 timeframe. Two more periods, March 1, 2020, through June 30, 2020, were compared to the same dates from the previous year.

Their findings identified many consultations ranging from 1,398 in 2019 to 1,623 in 2020, a 16 percent increase. Also, consultations were higher from March through June 2020 (679) versus 2019 (538), a 16.9 percent increase.

Results from the study indicate that RCS presents a route for radiologists to be at the forefront of the healthcare process, integrating with patients and providers regarding decisions. To determine the best plan possible for patients, all parties worked together as a team.

The report stated, “Physicians have become more conscientious about their imaging recommendations, relying on the radiologists’ clinical judgment of what is essential and minimizing unnecessary potential viral exposure. As a result, we believe that the radiology consultation service has enabled a more appropriate use of imaging.”

RadParts is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerator and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost parts and support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Contact RadParts at 877-704-3838 or visit us on the web: https://www.radparts.com.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

RadParts

How to Cool Your Pool During Summer

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In the sweltering summer sun, pool water can reach temperatures of 90 degrees Fahrenheit or above. While a pool can be a cool respite from the heat, hot swimming water (similar to a hot tub) is undesirable for most people. Thankfully, there are several quick-and-easy ways to lower your pool temperature this summer. Read on to discover some suggestions below.

Aerators
Cheap and easy, these attachments plug or screw into the side of your pool. They work by using return water from the pump to spray a fountain of water back into the pool. These tiny droplets of water have air in them as they are sprayed, allowing heat to escape more quickly by evaporation. If your pool temperature is at 94 degrees Fahrenheit, for example, you can expect it to decrease to roughly 90 degrees Fahrenheit with an aerator installed.

Fountain and Waterfall
Similar in concept to an aerator, these water features lower temperature by increasing air bubbles, thus encouraging evaporation. Decorative in appearance, these can also increase the value of your pool area by a few notches by improving the overall aesthetic.

Evening Pump
Running the pump at night will amplify the effects of aerators and fountains. The cooler temperature drop in the air will help to lower the water temperature more efficiently when the sun isn’t working against you. Even without an aerator or fountain, running the pool pump overnight will help circulate the water and release some heat into the cool evening air.

Solar Panels
While these are primarily purchased to heat a pool, they can also be used to cool water temperatures. Instead of letting water pass through the panels during the daytime, use them while running the pump at night to take advantage of the lower temperatures. Solar panels can be used in addition to other methods listed to further enhance cooling effects.

Pool Coolers
These dedicated “air conditioners” for your pool transfer heat with help from fans and refrigerants. Once cooled, the water is then pumped back into the pool. Most pools change between 10 to 15 degrees after a pool cooler is used. Temperature controls are useful to find the perfect comfort level.

Shade
A tried-and-true method of staying cool and out of the sun, shading a pool typically involves tall trees. Unfortunately, those trees are also associated with extra cleaning issues such as tree debris (leaves, pollen, etc.) that might fall into the water. Other options for shade include canopies or another physical structure that provides shade over the pool.

Pound Pool Plastering offers free estimates and complete pool renovations. Dale Pound, owner, personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, Marcite, Pebble finishes, Bead Crete, tile choices, coping stones, etc. We are pool renovation experts – contact us today at 248-476-4544 or poundpool@sbcglobal.net.


Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Pound Pool Plastering

Helping Wildlife Through Power Line Corridors

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For safe and reliable electrical transmission, bushhogging, seeding, and herbicides are used to control weeds. Along high-voltage power line corridors and local distribution systems, a low profile must be implemented so trees and other tall vegetation do not fall onto lines. Tree branches and shrubbery meeting power lines equals interference sparking outages, wildfires, and other issues. Federal and state requirements are in place, which set guidelines for managing vegetation along power line passages.

Utility companies can manage their own power line vegetation issues based on their rights-of-way (ROWs) beyond basic trimming and mowing. By promoting native low-growing vegetative communities, utility companies can offer safe, reliable operation of infrastructure while simultaneously benefiting local wildlife such as songbirds, pollinators, and more. Additionally, adding low-growing, native vegetation can contribute to corporate sustainability goals, lower the site’s carbon footprint, reduce long-term maintenance costs, and beautify the landscape.

Power line ROWs make up substantial property countrywide, meaning implementing these strategies, called Integrated Vegetation Management (IVM), could provide nearly five million acres of habitat for pollinators and other wildlife. Some of the benefits for wildlife include food sources, shelter, and nesting areas.

Rick Johnstone, president of IVM Partners Inc., explained, “If you use the right techniques and the right chemistry, you’ll restore the habitat that used to be there but hadn’t been allowed to be there due to routine cutting. If you kill the root systems of unwanted species, the seeds in the soil will have a chance to grow.”

According to Johnstone, the typical methods of constant mowing and tree-cutting generally promote regrowth of negative vegetation such as invasive species (aggressive, non-native plants). The relentless re-growth results in frequent maintenance, leading to elevated labor costs.

Instead, IVM is a more enticing practice, as it can deploy appropriate, environmentally-sound, cost-effective methods to control undesirable vegetation. Techniques include bushhogging, mowing, selective tree cutting, herbicide applications, biological controls, and seeding.

“The vegetation pretty much manages itself,” once you get a compatible plant community which usually takes a couple of years, Johnstone said. After that, only periodic treatments will be needed.

J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical equipment company. At J&P, we supply contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of electrical equipment such as bus plugs, ducts, panel switches, substations, and transformers. Call us at 877-844-5514 or visit us at https://www.jpelectricalcompany.com.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

J & P Electrical Company

Cashing In on Your Second Home

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Stay-at-home mandates during 2020 caused many homeowners to realize their home wasn’t accommodating to their lifestyle. At-home offices, media rooms, children’s school areas, gyms, and large yards were suddenly in high demand. These amenities became highly desirable and led many homeowners to invest in a new home.

Instead of purchasing a home near the office or in the same city, many people bought a larger second home farther away from the population to stay safe and have more space. These more spacious houses are also located on lakes or in the mountains, increasing the value.

High demand and low supply caused prices to climb, as primary residences expanded by nine percent in 2020. In every region of the United States and in 19 out of 20 major metropolitan areas, prices increased by double-digits. Sales for second homes increased by 27 percent in 2020.

Houses bought during the coronavirus pandemic were a fantastic investment because they served their function when necessary, and now, with higher sale prices, these second homes can be profitable. As the pandemic recedes and people retreat to their original homes near work, friends, and family, second homes are becoming more of a luxury rather than a necessity.

If a second home improved your day-to-day life during 2020, consider selling one of your houses to cash in on the profit. Decide whether your second home is still necessary to execute your daily functions such as work, school, and extra-curricular activities.

EB Mortgage is a locally-owned mortgage company with experts in new home purchase, refinancing, and commercial loans. Our wholesale rates can’t be beaten. We offer more products, more options, and more solutions. Our “3C” Process is simple: complete our pre-approval request, consider options based on your requirements, and choose the offer that suits your needs best. Call us at 866-246-0516 or e-mail contact@ebwmtg.com today.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

EB Mortgage