Healthcare Concierge

 

 Healthcare concierge is a new healthcare delivery model where a primary care physician charges a patient an annual fee (retainer) and promises to provide enhanced care to the patient by sparing adequate time and ensuring availability to the patient. Healthcare concierge is also known as concierge medicine or retainer medicine. The Four Seasons Medical Concierge is an example of an organization that gives healthcare concierge services by linking you to qualified and dedicated physicians in pain management, spine treatment, and podiatry.

Models of Healthcare Concierge

Organizations that offer healthcare concierge services adopt one of the three primary business models. These models are Fee for Care, Fee for Extra Care, and the Hybrid Concierge Model.  

Fee For Care (FFC)

In this model, a patient pays a physician an annual, quarterly, or monthly fee. This fee covers the services provided by the physician in the office. However, it does not include other services like lab work, x-ray, or vaccinations.

Fee For Extra Care (FFEC)

This model is like the FFC. The only difference is that it offers additional services to the physician's office services and charges the other services on a patient’s insurance plan or Medicare.

Hybrid Concierge

In this model, patients prepay a yearly, quarterly, or monthly fee to physicians for services that insurers or Medicare do not cover. Examples of such services not covered by Medicare or insurers are the provision of comprehensive wellness and evaluation plans. Physicians that use this model charge Medicare and insurers for the covered services. They cater to the uncovered services using prepaid periodical fees to them.

Types Of Services Offered By Concierge Medicine

In addition to the usual medical services, concierge physicians offer aeromedical evacuations, comprehensive, individualized examinations, access to second opinions, and routine and emergency diagnosis and treatment.

The fee charged for concierge medical is like an insurance policy where you pay a fee to a physician in anticipation of a future healthcare expense. 

Benefits Of Healthcare Concierge

Healthcare concierge has several advantages.

Increased Attention

Patients who subscribe to concierge medical services receive convenient, personal attention from their physicians. Their physician spares adequate time to attend to them and understand their medical history when they visit their offices.

Concierge physicians spend 20 minutes more with their patients than traditional physicians. It occurs because concierge physicians attend to a significantly lower number of patients (about 50 to 1000 patients annually) than traditional physicians (about 3000 to 4000 patients annually).

In-home Visits

 Concierge physicians do not just wait for you to go to them. They are usually a phone call or an email away. They are willing and bound to see you at your place and time of convenience. Since some health conditions and debilitating, it is beneficial that concierge physicians can visit and offer you treatment in the comfort of your home. Patients who receive personalized care at home recover faster than those who receive care at the hospital.

Worldwide Access to Physicians

Concierge organizations, such as our Four Seasons Medical Concierge, offer patients unlimited access to different physicians worldwide. They link up our global pool of very-able physicians to our cherished patients. It ensures that patients receive the best treatment at their convenience, facilitating quick recovery.

Conclusion

Healthcare concierge is an incredible service that gives you improved attention and care from the best physicians in the world. Contact several healthcare concierge organizations like the Four Seasons Medical Concierge to receive the best healthcare service at your convenience.

Orthodontic Appliance

 

 Usually, the teeth of the upper and lower jaws misalign when they close. This occurrence is known as malocclusion.

Malocclusion is not a serious health problem. However, it can present serious craniofacial anomalies characterized by a distorted face and one finding it hard to speak or chew food.

Serious cases of malocclusion are usually corrected using orthodontic treatment. However, a surgical procedure is necessary in severe cases.

Definition Of An Orthodontic Appliance

Orthodontic treatment uses an orthodontic appliance to correct malocclusions. Thus, an orthodontic appliance is a dental gear that applies force on the teeth of the upper and lower jaws to correct a malocclusion.

Types Of Orthodontic Appliances

They are two types of Orthodontic Appliances; active orthodontic appliances and functional orthodontic appliances.

Active Orthodontic Appliances

 

These dental gears apply pressure on the teeth to fix and match with other teeth on the upper and lower jaws. Examples of active appliances are

· Expansion and Labial Segment Alignment Appliance (ELSAA)

· Palatal Expander, Self-ligating Edgewise Appliances

· Begg Lightwire Appliances

· Tip-edge Appliance

· Preadjusted Edgewise Appliances

· Quad Helix

· Tri Helix

· Bi Helix

Functional Orthodontic Appliances

These are dental gears that apply pressure on the upper and lower jaws. They alter the position of the jaws to correct the malocclusion. Examples of functional appliances are

· Orthodontic headgear

· Orthodontic facemask

· Herbst appliance

· Twin block appliance

Recommendation For Orthodontic Treatment

Anybody above the age of eight is eligible for orthodontic treatment. However, orthodontic treatment is more suitable for children than teenagers or adults. Children have soft, pliable bones. Thus, orthodontic appliances work better on children’s teeth and jaws than on teens and adults.

If you suspect or feel that your child needs orthodontic treatment, visit an orthodontist with the child. Orthodontists have the knowledge and experience to determine your child's eligibility for treatment. They also know the most appropriate treatment and appliance options for correcting your child’s malocclusion. Your child's oral health is safe with an orthodontist.   

How to Choose Socks

Although often ignored, socks constitute an essential part of people’s dressing, especially when they are involved in outdoor activities. It is because pairs of socks have additional benefits to their aesthetic value. They also provide comfort and warmth and are capable of enhancing performance. Surprisingly, many people believe there is no need for many different pairs of socks. It is because they are used to using their few pairs of socks to perform varying functions, such as going to the office and going out for a run. Unfortunately, people have not realized that there is more to socks than their aesthetic value, which makes people use their only single pair to perform different functions repetitively. They have experienced it, yet they ignore that wearing the wrong socks can significantly ruin one’s day. It is because pairs of socks significantly impact a person’s outdoor comfort and performance, as mentioned earlier. Therefore, they must learn to choose the right socks that make them feel comfortable and do not disrupt their performance in outdoor activities. Below are factors that people should consider when selecting or buying socks for outdoor activities. 

Outdoor Activity or Sport

 

 football socks

 

Firstly, people should consider the outdoor activity or sport they wish to engage in. Many different outdoor activities and sports demand different types of socks. These activities and sports include hiking, running, mountaineering, athletics, and skiing. Different socks have been designed specifically for these various activities and sports. For example, mountaineering has mountaineering socks specifically designed for it. Mountaineering socks are the thickest and heaviest available socks on the market. They are made of a thick layer of insulating fabric, which makes them retain heat in one’s feet even in frigid temperatures. Apart from mountaineering, these socks are also suitable for winter activities. Wearing mountaineering socks in summer or the lowlands are uncomfortable because they make a person’s foot extremely warm, which is uncomfortable.

Additionally, hiking activities have hiking socks that are specifically designed for them. Hiking socks are designed mainly to cushion one’s feet and draw moisture from one’s feet to prevent one’s legs from developing blisters. They are a little bit thicker than sock liners. One cannot use hiking socks for mountaineering because they cannot retain the much-needed warmth by the feet in icy conditions. Fortunately, consumers are lucky that some manufacturers of socks today label and classify their socks according to the various activities they are intended to perform. However, they still need to exercise caution in choosing the right socks because a majority of the stores in the US still lack the classification of socks according to their functions.

The thickness of Socks to Shoe Size 

Secondly, people should consider the thickness of their socks to the size of their shoes. When one wears socks, the size of one’s feet increases. The increase in the size of the feet usually affects those with close-fitting shoes. They are likely to feel the pinch of the boots. They also risk developing blisters on their feet due to the tight shoes’ increased friction, temperature, and moisture. Therefore, it is advisable that when wearing one pair of socks makes shoes uncomfortably tight, one should choose a thinner pair of socks. On the other hand, wearing a thick pair of stockings can make shoes that are seemingly more oversized fit. However, this consideration should only be made in temperate regions with a lesser risk of extremely hot or cold temperatures, especially during the spring and autumn.

Types of Shoes

 

 sports shoes for women

 

Thirdly, people should consider the type of shoes they own before they buy socks. It is because different shoes are designed for different socks. For example, the design of the mountaineering boots is made only to accommodate heavy and thick mountaineering socks. Running shoes are designed only to accommodate slim-fit, skin-like socks. Buying hiking or running socks with mountaineering boots is a waste of money. It will make one’s feet not fit the shoes. Similarly, purchasing a pair of mountaineering socks with running shoes wastes money. It will make one’s feet fail to fit in the boots.

The Sock Fabric

Fourthly, people should consider the fabric used to make a pair of socks. Different fabrics and fabric combinations produce socks that perform various functions differently. For example, socks made from a blend of wool and synthetic fabrics are usually good at heat retention, even in wet conditions. Additionally, they are durable due to the presence of synthetic fabrics. On the other hand, socks made purely of wool are less durable and take a long time to dry.

Also, silk socks are light, comfortable, and good at insulation. That is why they are usually used as hiking socks. Additionally, socks that contain synthetic wicking materials absorb moisture, keeping one’s feet comfortably cool. Moreover, socks made of cotton are unsuitable for outdoor activities. It is because they absorb sweat but cannot provide insulation when wet. They increase one’s chances of developing blisters. Therefore, one should consider the material combination used to make the socks to see if the socks have properties that one desires to get from using the stockings.

Weight and Height of Socks

 

 thick mountaineering socks

 

Finally, it is essential to consider the weight and height of the socks. The weight of socks determines the activity or weather condition that the socks are designed for. Socks that are light in weight are usually meant to be worn in warm climates, hiking, and running activities; socks with medium weights are suitable for temperate and partly cold climates, and heavy socks are ideal for cold climates. Regarding height, different sporting activities require socks of different heights. For example, in soccer, soccer players wear tall socks that reach their knees. They help hold pads that protect players against leg injuries that fellow players may inflict. On the other hand, runners in athletics wear very short socks. It is because their legs are not exposed to harm from fellow runners.

In conclusion, different types of socks have different functions. This function variation gives each pair a particular advantage and disadvantage depending on the weather condition and the activity one wants to engage in. Therefore, as advised above, people should choose their socks wisely to ensure they have fruitful days and activities.

Pranayama

 Our lives are characterized by daily stresses that sometimes make living painful. Many life situations make us angry, stressed, and sad. They directly affect our mental health, affecting our physical and social health. We know that when we are angry, stressed, or sad, we do not eat or socialize positively with our friends, families, and coworkers, which should not be the case. Fortunately, we have the pranayama to help us release harmful stress and anger while calming us, lifting our spirits, and improving our mental clarity. Through pranayama, we are not only able to restore mental stability, but we are also able to improve and maintain our physical and social health. 

Origin of Pranayama

The Term Pranayama combines two Indian words, “Prana” and “Ayama.” According to the ancient Indian seers, Prana is a force that flows through our body and keeps us alive. We mainly get Prana through breathing. When we stop breathing, we do not get Prana, which means we are dead. On the other hand, Ayama means to control. Therefore, pranayama means controlling or regulating breathing since Prana is mainly obtained by breathing. Technically, pranayama is a breathing exercise that improves energy and mental health. 

Types of Pranayama

There are several of types of pranayama. Such as: 

·        Anuloma

·        Bhastrika, 

·        Kapalabhati, 

·        Kumbakha

·        Ujjai, 

·        Bee Breath (Bhramari), 

·        Nadhii Shodhana.

Anuloma Pranayama

This pranayama (breathing exercise) involves using both nostrils simultaneously to inhale the fresh air, exhaling the used air between the left and right nostrils. The right-hand thumb controls the right nostril, while the right-hand little finger or ring finger controls the left nostril during exhalation. Alternatively, one can do an inverted Anuloma. In this case, inhalation is done by alternatively using the left and right nostrils, while exhalation is carried out simultaneously by both nostrils. The inhalation and exhalation processes are usually accompanied by retention processes (Kumbhaka). However, beginners of this exercise are not encouraged to practice retention. Advanced performers of Anuloma can carry out retention at the end of inhalation and exhalation. 

Bhastrika Pranayama

The Bhastrika Pranayama is customarily used to prepare an individual for other breathing exercises. It is typically the first to be performed by one before one indulges in other forms of pranayama. This breathing exercise is characterized by forceful breathing in and out of the air. The exercise uses the diaphragm to drive the forceful movement of air, especially during exhalation. Usually, when a person performs the Bhastrika, you will hear audible sounds that show heavy breathing. Repeated rounds of inhalation and exhalation are likely to produce a hissing sound. Inhalation and exhalation in Bhastrika should be performed rapidly. A Bhastrika ends with a last deep inhalation, a retention, and an exhalation that is slowly carried out. 

Kapalabhati Pranayama

This pranayama is characterized by a short, robust, and forceful inhalation followed by a short, strong, forceful exhalation. It can also be done in another way whereby one can carry out quick, strong, forceful exhalations without inhalation for some time. This is known as Vatakrama kapalabhati. The Kapalabhati is mainly meant to cleanse the brain, the small brain, and the sinus. 

Kumbakha Pranayama

Kumbakha refers to the pause in the breathing process that follows an inhalation or an exhalation. It refers to the period of breathing when one does not inhale or exhale air. The pause in breathing after inhalation is known as bahya kumbaka, while the pause after exhalation is known as antara kumbakha. Kumbakha is recommended because it increases one’s control over one’s mind.

Ujjayi Pranayama

This breathing exercise is characterized by a prolonged forceful inhalation that fills the belly, chest, and throat. During the process, one moves the glottis to create an ocean sound while narrowing the throat and air passage. Exhalation is also done similarly to inhalation. The duration of the round of inhalation should be equal to the course of the round of succeeding exhalation.

Bhramari Pranayama

This pranayama involves placing and pressing index fingers on the cartilage between one’s cheeks and ears and keeping one’s eyes closed. It is followed by deep inhalation and exhalation while humming like a bee’s. Ensure your index fingers press the cartilage gently and your mouth is closed when humming loudly. This exercise has an immediate calming effect on one mind. It is the best exercise to free up anger, agitation, anxiety, or frustration.

Nadhi Shodhana (Alternate nostril breathing) 

This exercise involves the use of right-hand fingers to control inhalation and exhalation. During inhalation, one closes the right nostril using the right-hand thumb and breathes in slowly and steadily using the left nostril. It is typically followed by a brief retention whereby the left nostril is closed. After the retention, the right nostril is open while the left nostril remains closed. Air is exhaled slowly and steadily using the right nostril. It is followed by a brief retention again. The next round of inhalation is done by the open right nostril, while the left nostril will do exhalation. This alternate nostril breathing improves one’s focus and attention.

Conclusion

Pranayama is very important for our general health. It helps us clear our worries and anxieties and makes us calm. It also removes the fog in our brains, which improves our attention and focus. It also boosts our energy (kundalini), filling us with enthusiasm and positivity toward life. You can be forever young if you try to maintain pranayama. Try it. The few forms of pranayama explained above are easily understandable. Try them out.