Wayne County (Michigan) Health Expo - 2010

Are you an uninsured Wayne County Resident, looking for a Free Health Expo? The Wayne County Health Expo is set for Friday, April 23, 2010 8am to 5pm in Cobo Hall's Ambassador Room. Services available are: Diabetes Screening, Mental Health Services, Dental Services, HIV/AIDS-STD Testing, and more.

Also present will be support organizations for just about any need you have.
You can also apply for Medicaid enrollment and learn more about health coverage programs offered by Wayne County, City of Detroit, and the State of Michigan. Some programs may require Picture ID, Social Security or Income Information.

For more information call Wayne County Health Choice: 313-833-3438 or Department of Health and Wellness Promotion: 313-961-2229

Not in the Wayne County, MI area? Find a public health center close to you, many offer similar services and programs.

Faulty Heart Cath Sheath recalled, but too late for some

Why has it taken so long for this recall? The recall is for Torflex Transseptal Guiding Sheath by Baylis Medical Company Inc. The date the recall was initiated was February 8, 2010. The product was sold April 2007 through May 2009.


This is a Class 1 recall which is the most serious type of recall and involve situations in which there is a reasonable probability that use of these products will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.

Reason for the recall: During heart procedures, the sheath tip may break off and separate while the sheath is in the blood vessels. If this occurs, the fragment could move through the heart and arteries to vital organs, causing a blockage anywhere, including the brain or heart. This could lead to unplanned open heart surgery, permanent injury, such as a stroke or heart attack, and/or death.

To learn more about this recall - go to Sheath recall

I am going to investigate further how many injuries, death, etc and the time line. I suspect that many injuries and deaths could have been avoided if the recall was issued sooner than 10 months after the last sale. The consequences of this type of product failure is too high.

Is anyone else interested in knowing how many unplanned open heart surgeries occurred because of this issue in 2007, 2008, 2009, and 2010? (as well as permanent injury, deaths, and AMI/Strokes.)

US Veterans can help fellow Veterans by rating care at VA Hospitals and Outpatient Centers

Where are the best veterans hospitals? Each and every day veterans are accessing care at the hundreds of hospitals and outpatient centers across the nation. It is important that everyone know how you are treated, especially other veterans who will be seeking care.

That's why is why we have included Veteran Hospitals and Veteran Outpatient Clinics in our health care directory.

Please take a moment and share your experience on WhereToFindCare.com for a VA hospital or VA Outpatient Center. How you are treated is a concern to all of us. If you know a veteran who has received services in a VA hospital or VA Outpatient Center - help them out by asking them to share their experience on WhereToFindCare.com.

One in three home care patients admitted to hospital

If you are like me, you want to eliminate trips to the hospital when issues can be managed at home or lower level care environments. That's why I was shocked to find out that 29% of home health care patients across the US are admitted to the hospital while under the care of a home health care agency.

According to Medicare, some patients may need to go into the hospital while they are getting home health care. In some cases--like incurable chronic medical conditions--going into the hospital may not be avoidable even with good home health care. However, some inpatient hospital care may be avoided if home health care staff is doing a good job at checking the patient's health condition at each visit (so problems are detected early).

With the national average of home care patients who had to be admitted to the hospital at 29%, you need to understand the differences between home health care providers in your area before you choose. The picture above is the search in my zip code. You can see the large differences between providers ranging for 14% to 60%.

To check out home health care agencies in your area for this specific measure go to Hospital Admissions from Home Care Agencies

To check out other Home Health Care Measures go to CMS Home Care Quality Measures

Have you had experiences with home health care agencies in your area? Share your experiences with other users by rating the home health care agency on WhereToFindCare.com. Your feedback is invaluable to others in your community searching for a homecare agency.

New Home Health Care Quality Comparison Search Released

Millions of people use home health care agencies across the US each year. Understanding the available quality information can help guide you toward making an informed decision about your choice of over 10,000 home health care providers for your recovery.

WhereToFindCare.com is proud to announce our new home health care quality pages. We believe anyone considering using a home health care agency or referring to home health care agencies should be knowledgeable about the quality measures, what they mean, and how they measure up next to competitors.

The new pages allow users to find information for home health care agencies right in their zip code as well as state and national averages.

Over the next several weeks, I'll post tips on what each measure means and how you can use your search to make your choices.

Have you had experiences with home health care agencies in your area? Share your experiences with other users by rating the home health care agency on WhereToFindCare.com. Your feedback is invaluable to others in your community searching for a homecare agency.

Know how your hospital performs on quality measures?

Did you know hospitals that participate with CMS (translation: accepts Medicare patients) are required to submit quality measures on a variety of diagnosis such as Heart Attack, Pneumonia, and Surgery? Each quarter, hospitals across the nation submit patient information that demonstrates whether or not a specific action took place. Some elements factor in whether or not it was done timely, correct medication given, or if the sequence of events were appropriate. (Future blogs will discuss more in detail each measure). This information can be helpful when deciding what hospital you should choose.

WhereToFindCare.com uses this information and simplifies into one value called Quality Score - Government. When you search for a hospital in your area, this score is displayed in your search results and on each hospital's home page. A screenprint of search in my area is shown above. You can see that the Quality Score (yellow highlight) ranges from 100% to 71%.

Each hospital's Quality Score is the percentage of measures that met or exceeded the national average. Sometimes, however, CMS feels a hospital did not have enough patients to make a judgment on its quality. In these cases, those measures are not included in this Quality Score. Detailed quality information by measure is available on the Quality tab of each hospital's home page.

To understand how your hospital rates go to WhereToFindCare.com.

Western Wayne Family Health Center - Inkster

Opened a little more than three years ago, Western Wayne Family Health Center - Inkster offers affordable quality care to the surrounding community. Western Wayne Family Health Center, like most FQHCs (Federally Qualified Health Centers) offer a variety of care services to be your medical home. Services offered include: medical, pediatrics, obstetrics, gynecology, dental, and mental health. They have even partnered with a community pharmacy to provide a discount on prescriptions needs. Patients of all ages are welcome.

Need to see a physician quickly? No problem - Western Wayne Family Health Centers offer same day and next day appointments. Physicians at WWFHC-Inkster include:

Family Medicine:Dr. Karen Rhodes

Pediatrics: Dr. Philip Jackson

Internal Medicine: Dr. Errol Elrington

And unlike many health care services, Western Wayne Family Health Centers accepts all insurances plans and offering a sliding scale to those without insurance.

You can find more information about each center by visiting the links below:
Western Wayne Family Health Center - Inkster
Western Wayne Family Health Center - Taylor

Cardiac Science Automated External Defibrillators Recalled

Please forward this information to everyone: Schools, physician offices, training centers, senior centers, firemen, etc.

Cardiac Science Corporation and FDA notified healthcare professionals and consumers of a recall because the automated external defibrillator (AED) may not be able to deliver therapy during a cardiac resuscitation attempt, which may lead to serious adverse events or death. These AEDs were manufactured in a way that makes them potentially susceptible to failure under certain conditions. Each of the approximately 12,200 devices affected in this recall can be confirmed at the Cardiac Science Web site, www.cardiacscience.com/AED195.

The affected AEDs were manufactured or serviced between October 19, 2009 and January 15, 2010 and include the following models - Powerheart 9300A, 9300E, 9300P, 9390A, 9390E, CardioVive 92532 and CardioLife 9200G and 9231.

Each affected AED should immediately be removed from service since it may not deliver the expected therapy.

Wrong site surgery is a Never Event

Wrong site surgeries have been occurring since operations have been performed. Wrong site surgery is considered a preventable error involving a surgical procedure performed on the wrong patient, wrong body part, and/or wrong side of the body. (Chodruff)

The definition also encompasses patients who are not scheduled for a procedure, procedures which are performed and not scheduled, or those which differ from what was scheduled; in all cases, there is a breakdown in communication, causing the error.

According to Medicare, wrong site surgery is a "Never event". Never events are events that should never happen because when they do occur, they can cause serious injury or death to the patient.

Examples of never events include: Surgery on a wrong body part, Surgery on a wrong patient, wrong surgery on a patient. In most cases, Medicare pays only for items or services that are reasonable and necessary for the treatment of the patients condition, or certain preventive services required by the Medicare law. Medicare does not pay the doctor and the hospital/outpatient surgery center for an erroneous surgery.

Despite efforts to avert - Wrong Site Surgery still occurs

Despite rules and regulations that have been echoed time and again from the many different efforts across this country, wrong site surgery cases are still occurring every day. Just Google the words "operated on wrong side" and you will get quite a few links to recent cases of surgery performed on the wrong site.

In Rhode Island last year, a hospital was fined $200,000 for wrong site surgery that occurred with 5 patients since 2007. The hospital was also ordered to install video cameras in the OR and staff it with a non-clinician "monitoring if surgeons are marking operation sites, and taking time outs to determine if the correct body part has been located for surgery"
This was the first time that the Rhode Island State Health Department has ever issued fines. See article.

Interesting though, is the lack of seriousness to this issue by the State Health Department as "Rhode Island Hospital has 45 days to install the recording equipment in its operating rooms and every doctor will be taped during surgery at least twice a year, reported the AP. It will be at the hospital’s discretion to advice surgeons if they are being monitored."

Surgeons will most likely get advance notice of the taping of two operations a year recorded for posterity making it useless for prevention.

Have you been a victim of wrong site surgery?

Related articles:
Wrong Site Surgery is a Never Event

Need a copy of your medical record? Be prepared to pay

Recently I can became aware of the price for a few pieces of paper after receiving rejections from the insurer on physician visits and ancillary services (radiology, labs).

The initial request by Blue Cross was for our physicians to send medical records directly to Blue Cross. Both providers did so after we signed a record release (HIPPA), and without a charge.

After waiting the prescribed time period, we were told by Blue Cross that the records were probably somewhere in the Blue Cross system but without a letter stating the specific reason for sending them along with the records they had no way of assigning to a patient. We still don't know where those specific records are: an employee home, the shredder, in a file somewhere, they couldn't tell us.

In order to get our case reviewed for payment, which in our case is application to our high deductible, we had to order the medical records be sent again, except this time we needed them in our hands so we could attach a letter. We contacted the providers again, (one at a practice and another that is a hospital managed office) and were told it would be $26 at one office and $25 at another for a copy given to the patient. Let me repeat - free if sent to the insurance provider, $25 if given to you.

The medical record at the first provider was 6 pages (4 pages were labs), the other about 12 (again - mostly labs). So for 18 pages of information - it was $51 or a cost of $2.83 a page. The fee was not based on how many pages, but a flat fee.

It takes about 10 seconds to copy a page if you are doing it manually, and if you have a higer end copier - about 10 seconds total for the entire chart. Time to pull the chart - about 3o seconds. Total max time: 1 to 2 minutes. At the rate of $26 for 2 minutes - that would be $780 an hour (30 records copied @ $26).

So besides the hassle of being rejected, the hours spent on the phone trying to understand why, and all the other obstacles - we are now being charged extraordinary fees when trying to get our own medical records. It just doesn't seem right to be charged for a copy of the same medical records that are given as a courtesy to the insurance plans.

What do you think?

COBRA Premium Reduction Extension Provisions

According to the Department of Labor's website, an extension has been granted for those who qualify for the Cobra Premium Reduction for an additional 6 months, totaling of 15 months.

This program, enacted under last year's ARRA, offers qualifying people the ability to pay 35% of the Cobra rate for 9 months (now 15 months). That is significant savings to the many families who need this to continue insurance.

To learn more about the specifics - please read the FAQs at COBRA Premium Reduction Extension Provisions

Free health calculator: Food Calculator

Interested in understanding how many calories you are consuming in a day or a meal? NutriInfo.com offers a free food calculator where you can enter your desired daily calorie goal, and the number of servings for each of the basic food groups (grains, vegetables, fruit, milk, meat/beans, and fats). Daily recommended servings are also shown to help guide you in balancing your diet.

The result is an easy to understand grid showing the total calorie intake and the number of carbs, proteins, and fat as a percentage of your daily diet. It also shows the same information in grams to help you with day to day monitoring.

The helpful advice at the bottom of the calculator (in red) guides you specifically with reminders to eat more servings of a particular food group, and warnings for excessive consumption of fat or calories.
Eat within your recommended servings to meet your calorie goal.
Your fat intake exceeds the recommended daily maximum of 30%.

This calculator can be used to understand your current consumption as well as help you plan for tomorrow. See the about tab at NutriInfo.com's health calculator to enter your info.

NutriInfo.com's Mission: We strive to provide the most convenient and flexible online tools that help individuals develop healthy lifestyles, stay motivated, and achieve their lifetime health.

Tips to Control Health Care Costs: Tip #10 Maintain a healthy lifestyle to prevent or control diseases.

WhereToFindCare.com's Ten Tips to Control Health Care Costs:

Tip #10: Maintain a healthy lifestyle to prevent or control diseases.

That means eat well, exercise and get enough sleep. This benefits your health and your wallet.

Related blogs:

Why can't I sleep?

What you may not know about soda?
Things you can do to prevent getting sick

How to exercise while at work
How much water should you drink each day?

Tip #9

Why aren't flowers allowed in some hospital rooms?

Ever wanted to send flowers to a family or friend in the hospital but was told no? This happened to a family member of mine a few weeks ago. Of course he only learned of it upon presenting to the unit with the flowers rather than at the gift shop counter (where it should have been asked).

So I was naturally interested when I found this article this morning which questions the real reasons for the denial of flowers in the hospital room. According to the article recently posted in ScienceDaily, the myths of bacteria in the water vase, and blooms competing for oxygen are baseless.

And when compared with the outcomes that patients exhibit from having flowers, "Other studies report that flowers have immediate and long term beneficial effects on emotional reactions, mood, social behaviours, and memory for men and women alike. One trial found that patients in hospital rooms with plants and flowers needed significantly fewer postoperative analgesics; had reduced systolic blood pressure and heart rate; lower ratings of pain, anxiety, and fatigue; and had more positive feelings than patients in the control group." it would seem that there would be a bigger push for hospitals to reevaluate their flower policy.

Next time you are at the hospital, ask if you can bring flowers in.... then contact us with what you find out.

Tips to Control Health Care Costs: Tip #6 Take your medications

WhereToFindCare.com's Ten Tips to Control Health Care Costs:

Tip #6:Take your medications.

Your doctor has prescribed medication to treat, monitor or control a health condition. When taken properly, you will most likely keep your condition under control.

If you can't afford your medications, many drug companies, free clinics, pharmacies and community organizations have programs to pay for or subsidize costs for people in need. Also, your doctor may know of programs that can help you.

If you have a tip you would like to share - please let us know.

Related Blogs:
What Do You Do If You Can't Afford Your Medication?
Tip #1
Tip #2
Tip #3
Tip #4
Tip #5
Ten Tips to Control Health Care Costs

Tips to Control Health Care Costs: Tip #5 Need a doctor after office hours, use an urgent care or walk-in clinic instead of the emergency

WhereToFindCare.com's Ten Tips to Control Health Care Costs:


Tip #5: If you need to see a doctor after office hours, use an urgent care or walk-in clinic instead of the emergency room.

Studies have shown that 40-60% of all ER visits are non-urgent.

As long as your condition is not life-threatening, urgent care centers are a less expensive and faster alternative.

Find one near you at WhereToFindCare.com.

If you have a tip you would like to share - please let us know.

Related Blogs:
Tip #1
Tip #2
Tip #3
Tip #4
Ten Tips to Control Health care Costs

Tips to Control Health Care Costs: Tip #4 Know your options for finding care

WhereToFindCare.com's Ten Tips to Control Health Care Costs:

Tip#4: Know your options for finding care

If you are like many Americans having trouble affording health care, you should know that you still have options.

In addition to free clinics, federally qualified health centers are available to help you by providing a sliding scale according to your ability to pay.

For assistance with hospital care services, contact a financial advisor and request an application for charity care consideration. Guidelines do vary from hospital to hospital, with eligibility ranging from full to partial payment.

If you have a tip you would like to share - please let us know.

Related Blogs:
Tip #1
Tip #2
Tip #3
Ten Tips to Control Health care Costs

Tips to Control Health Care Costs: Tip #3 Discuss and compare costs

WhereToFindCare.com's Ten Tips to Control Health Care Costs:


Tip #3. It is OK to discuss and compare costs.




If you are having trouble affording your co-pays or co-insurance, don't be afraid to talk with your providers about payment arrangements.


Often, they will work out a monthly payment schedule with you.


You may also consider comparing doctor costs or using a free clinic. You can locate physicians and free clinics near you at WhereToFindCare.com.

If you have a tip you would like to share - please let us know.



Related Blogs:
Tip #1
Tip #2
Ten Tips to Control Health care Costs

Can't afford health care?

If you are like many Americans who do not have health insurance and cannot afford health care, or have health insurance that is limited, you should know that you still have options. Check out the Low Cost Health Care and Assistance page on WhereToFindCare.com.

You will find links to free and low cost clinics, federally qualified health centers, urgent care and walk in clinics, prescription assistance programs, and more.

If you know of a program or service that can help others please let us know and we can share them with consumers who are looking for those services.

More H1N1 vaccination clinics eliminate restrictions

Over the past couple of weeks, more and more public health centers are offering H1N1 vaccinations without restrictions as to age, health status, or occupation.
However, most are asking that you call for an appointment. Check out the WhereToFindCare.com Flu Shot finder.

In Michigan
Monroe County Health Department
Bay County Health Department
Washtenaw County Health Department
Wayne County Health Department
more...


Detroit
Northwest Activities Center
Herman Keifer

Tips to Control Health Care Costs: Tip #2 Get or keep visiting your primary care physician

WhereToFindCare.com's Ten Tips to Control Health Care Costs:

Tip #2. Get or keep your primary care doctor, and get that annual physical.

It is the best way to stay on top of your health and prevent health issues from becoming larger problems.
If you have a chronic condition, such as asthma or high blood pressure, regular check-ups with your doctor can keep things under control.

If you have a tip you would like to share - please let us know.

And be sure to check out our new Low Cost Health Care and Assistance Page.

Related Blogs:
Tip #1
Ten Tips to Control Health care Costs

Tips to Control Health Care Costs: Tip #1 Question everything

WhereToFindCare.com's Ten Tips to Control Health Care Costs:

Tip #1: Question everything.

Ask why those tests, screenings and medications your doctor orders are necessary and whether lower-cost alternatives are appropriate.

Then, check with your health plan to make sure they will cover it. Sometimes a standard X-ray is just as effective as an MRI or CT scan, and some health plans require additional information from the doctor before they will cover a more expensive version of a diagnostic test.

If you have a tip you would like share, please let us know.

Related Blog:
Ten Tips to Control Health Care Costs

Ten Tips to Control Health Care Costs

Consumers are spending more out-of-pocket on their health care expenses than ever before. Trends such as high-deductibles, co-insurance, and sharing in the premium cost of your employer-provided health plan all are causing consumers to be more careful and responsible for their health care.

Over the next week, WhereToFindCare.com will be releasing tips for you to consider as you need health care services. The tips are for everyone - insured or uninsured, sick or healthy, young or old. Please share with everyone you know, they may find it useful or know someone who would.

For those of you who can't wait - here is a link to the entire list.

If you have a tip you would like to share - please let us know.

Heart Attack patient told to take a seat dies in ER lobby

Late last month Joaquin Rivera, 63, from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania walked into a hospital ER complaining of pain in his left arm and torso. He was told to take a seat and did so. He died waiting.

The details can be found in this posting in the Philadelphia Daily. His family believes he died of a heart attack and I suspect that will be confirmed with the test results.

To know that another patient had encountered a similar visit just a few months before and walked out before it was too late and that hospital employees walked by not noticing of his death shows that this is not an isolated event. This is bad health care.

He was at the right place at the right time while having a heart attack. All of the hospital emergency rooms I am aware of have triage rules that place this type of patient at the top of the priority list. After all, it is a time sensitive medical crisis that requires immediate attention.

He sat right across from windows where staff could easily see waiting patients in distress. In fact during the robbery you can see movement in both sets of windows of staff.

Community protests took place outside of the ER last weekend (December 7). The picture reads:
"A man with health insurance went with a pain in the chest to the hospital and after 1 hour & 18 minutes without receiving any type of medical help died from a heart attack in the waiting room and robbed in front of the hospital security. We Want Justice!!! "

And I couldn't agree more. Please help us improve health care by sharing your voice (experience) on WhereToFindCare.com. Things like this should NEVER happen!

Senate Health Care Reform Discussion 12/11/2009

Interested in understanding what your leaders are discussing about your health care future? You should be. Coverage limits, community hospitals, drug coverage, costs, loophole.... all words discussed in the past 5 minutes. Senators are discussing right now on CSPAN2

Here is a direct link to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act being debated in the Senate.

University of Michigan Hospital offers Cancer Answer Line

Do you have cancer related questions but don't know where to turn? Get a result on a test that looks suspicious? Need a physician who specializes in your type of cancer? Interested in learning more about prevention strategies to avoid increasing your risk of specific types of cancer? Concerned about a family member or friend with cancer or undergoing testing?

The Cancer AnswerLine provided by University of Michigan is here to help people like you. The experienced registered nurses can be reached at 1-800-865-1125 Monday through Friday 8:am to 5:30pm ET. The call is free and confidential. You can also contact them for an email response through this link.

A couple of other notes:
This is a no-obligation community service provided by the University of Michigan Health System. There are no restrictions on who can utilize the service such as geographic, insurance, or other. This free service puts you in touch via phone or email with a Registered Oncology Nurse.

How cool is that?

Michigan Counties continue to offer H1N1 vaccinations

As the vaccine supply continues to get to area health departments, new clinics are being offered. More and more, the H1N1 clinics are requesting residents to call for appointments. This is to control wait times, and to increase screening for priority groups.

Here are just some of the listings for the next couple of weeks throughout Michigan counties:

Oakland County
North Oakland Health Center
Southfield Lathrup High School
Huron Valley Lakeland High School

Monroe County
Monroe High School

Grand Traverse County Health Department
County Health Building

Washtenaw County
Manchester High School
Livingston County

Macomb County
Freedom Hill

Genesee County
EA Johnson High School
Burton Branch
Flushing High School

Huron County
Huron County Health Department

Saginaw County
Center Courts

Sanilac County
Sanilac County Health Department

Bay County
Bay County Health Dept

Wayne County
Inkster
Redford
Wayne
Western Wayne Family Health
New Boston
Lincoln Park

Detroit
Herman Keifer
Northwest Activities Center
Heilmann Center

For more listings, please check out WhereToFindCare.com.

How to avoid Thanksgiving Day Fires

According to the The Fairfax County Health Department, Thanksgiving Day is the busiest day for fire service, more than three times the daily average. It was startling to learn that more property damage and lives are lost in residential structure fires on Thanksgiving Day than any other day of the year. The increase applies mostly to cooking fires in family homes, especially with the introduction of the turkey fryer. Turkey fryers, if not used according to manufacturers directions, can lead to devastating burns, other injuries, destruction of property and ruin an otherwise enjoyable family time.

They offered these helpful safety tips

• Always use cooking equipment tested and approved by a recognized testing facility.
• Stay in the kitchen when you are frying or grilling food. If you leave the kitchen, turn off the stove.
• Keep anything that can catch fire--potholders, towels, or curtains away from the stovetop.
• Have a "kid-free zone" of at least three feet around the stove.
• Wear short, close fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking.
• Always keep an oven mitt and lid nearby when cooking.
• When placing the turkey into the oven or turkey fryer, be extremely careful.

WhereToFindCare.com offers these additional tips:

• Review instructions on using your kitchen fire extinguisher before cooking.
• Make sure your cooking equipment has properly working ventilation system.
• Listen to the football game instead of TV. Full attention is needed in the kitchen with so many things cooking at the same time.
  
• Keep burn cream handy for minor burns, quick application will help ease the pain and get you back on task
• Don't be afraid to ask for help from family. You may be able to avoid a bigger fire and the team work will be a wonderful family memory.
• Keep a full box or two of baking soda nearby, spreading on grease fire helps in distinguishing.
• Don't have lit candles on your kitchen counter or island. The smell of the cooking turkey and trimmings are the desired scent of the day.
  
• In the event, you need immediate emergency attention don't hesitate to call 911.
• Most urgent care centers are open on Thanksgiving - see Urgent Care Centers on WhereToFindCare.com to find one near you.
  

Have a tip for avoiding fires on Thanksgiving Day? we invite you to share them here.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Washtenaw County (Michigan) has H1N1 Vaccination Clinic Today

Washtenaw County Public Health Department is hosting an H1N1 vaccine clinic today at Eastern Michigan University. Wristbands are distributed at 9am; The vaccinations start at 10am and go unti 4pm. For more information check out Washtenaw-EMU H1N1.

H1N1 Vaccination Clinics - Saturday November 21 2009

Many H1N1 Vaccinations clinics have their doors open tomorrow. Please continue to read thoroughly the notices in your area as the target groups do vary county to county.

Wayne County, Michigan
Huron High School, New Boston 10am to 4pm

Macomb County, Michigan
Freedom Hill, 9am to 3pm

Detroit, Michigan
Northwest Activities Center, Detroit 11am to 3pm
Heilmann Recreation Center, Detroit 11am to 3pm
LaSed, Detroit 11am to 3pm

California
Santa Maria Public Health Center, 9am to 1pm

Florida
Fuchs Pavilion - Miami Dade, 8am to noon
Tommy Lawrence Arena, 9am to 3pm
Flagler County Health - appointments tomorrow

Minnesota
Washington County Government Center, 9am to noon
Cottage Grove Service Center, 9am to noon
Headwaters Forest Lake Service Center, 9am to noon

New York
JHS Mosholu Parkway,Sat 9 to 6pm , Sun 9 to 5pm
Medley Center, 10am to 6pm
Blue Cross Arena, 10am to 6pm
Pennfield Town Hall, 10am to 6pm
West End Business Center, 10am to 6pm
First Bible Baptist Church, 10am to 6pm
Orlean Health Department, 10am to 2pm
Red Creek High School, 9am to 2pm

Texas
Lucas Middle School, 9am to noon

Virginia

Fairfax County Health Department, 9am to 5pm

If you have any flu clinics in your area, please add them to our search at http://www.wheretofindcare.com/

Are wait time guarantees more than a marketing tool?

Greeted with a "Sign in and have a seat", I sat for the next 14 minutes before being summoned to the front desk by a less than friendly receptionist. No doubt she hadn't read the sign in the waiting room that stated: "We recognize your time is valuable. Please let us know if you have not been taken care of in 10 minutes. Thank You." I chose not to approach her about the 10 minute marker in fear of being labeled a "trouble maker" never yields better service.

When I stepped up to the desk - the greeting was disguised as a request for my insurance card, driver's license, and prescription. I stood there silently while she copied it and said "Thanks". I asked how long it would be and the response given was "soon". I asked again for the length of time before I would be seen and she responded as soon as I put the paperwork in. That is a very powerful remark to make - and the very sentiment that stopped me from telling them they were past their 10 minute mark with me.

I returned to my seat and waited. Yes, all the comfort measures were there - coffee, TV, magazines, and a room full of people waiting. It was a little more than 15 minutes later that my name was called by the clinical staff.

As I reflect on this, I wonder:

1. What 10 minute period do they want us to measure? Arrival time to registration or Registration to Procedure commencement time or something else.
   
2. Why should I, the patient, have to remind them I am there?
3. How could a manager improve the registration process without information about arrival time? The sign in sheet asks for names only
4. How should non clinical staff learn from patients/families to be as welcoming and friendly as the clinical staff?
   

We can learn from every health care experience - what works and what doesn't. Whether you were a patient, visitor or caregiver, share your experience now.

Sharing your health care experience helps others find the best care.

Oakwood experts offer H1N1 advice during live call-in show

Have a question for health care experts about the H1N1 virus? Consumers within listening range of Detroit-based WJR 760am - will be able to ask questions to a panel of experts during a special feature of Oakwood Healthcare System's Champions of Care. The live call-in clinic takes place next week. Date and Time TBA.

The experts include:
Rama Thyagarajan MD, Medical Director of Infection Control
Barb Medvec, Chief Nursing Officer
Sara Atwell, Chief Quality and Patient Safety Officer
Maureen D'Agostino, Senior Vice President Organizational Excellence, Accreditation, Compliance

Oakwood's weekly Champions of Care program features expert advice on topics that concern many patients: Open Heart, Knee replacement, diets, and more. Past programs can be found on Oakwood.org.

Remember, find H1N1 vaccination clinics at WhereToFindFluShots.com

Quality Results of Home Health Care Providers

With hundreds of home health care agencies available in Michigan, it can be a challenge for physicians and consumers to understand the differences in quality between providers. A review of CMS quality data for the 134 participating home health care agencies that deliver care to my zip code,48183, finds that on average these home health care providers are reporting on 11 measures. Quality results on those measures do vary from agency to agency with some receiving a 100% score (all measures above national averages) and others receiving a 0% score.

Comparison to national average is just one way to understand which home health care provider is right for you. Here is a list of home health care providers that provide services (according to the service area they have defined for Medicare participants) in my hometown - Trenton, MI that are the most successful for their indicators as compared to national average:

7 Home Health Agencies have 100% of their measures meeting/exceeded national average

NeoCare Home Care Taylor, MI
Atlantis Home Health Care, Inc Canton, MI
Platinum Home Care Detroit, MI
Community Home Health Care Redford, MI
Global Home Care Troy, MI
First Home Health Care, Inc Southfield, MI
Healing Touch Home Care Southfield, MI

22 Home Health Agencies have nearly all of their measures meeting/exceeding national averages: (scored 90% and above)

Liberty Home Health Care Brownstown, MI
Trinity Home Health System, Inc Brownstown, MI
Metro Home Health Services, Inc Dearborn, MI
Amber Home Health care, Inc Dearborn, MI
Oakland Home Health Care, Inc Farmington Hills, MI
Northwest Home Health Services, Inc Farmington Hills, MI
Allied Home Care Services, Inc Lincoln Park, MI
Physician's Choice Home Health Care Livonia, MI
Optimum Home Health Care Livonia, MI
Residential Home Health Madison Heights, MI
Preferred Home Care, Inc Mount Clemens, MI
First Michigan Home Health Care Oak Park, MI
Vital Home Health Care Oak Park, MI
Affinity Home Care Roseville, MI
Heartland Home Care Southfield Southfield, MI
Alliance Home Care Southfield, MI
Universal Home Health Care Southfield, MI
Prestige Home Health Services, Inc Southfield, MI
Seniors Home Health Care Southfield, MI
Comfort Home Care Southfield, MI
Open Arms Home Care Southfield, MI
Health Producers Home Care Agency, Inc Warren, MI

Interested in learning more about quality outcomes for home health care agencies in your area - go to our homecare page and enter your zip code.

William Beaumont Hospital (Michigan) offers H1N1 Hotline

With the range of illness from the H1N1 flu, you may find yourself in a position to need more information about signs and symptoms of swine flu. Beaumont Healthcare System with hospitals in Troy and Royal Oak, MI is offering a nurse staffed hotline to help you with your questions.

The center is reachable at 888-375-H1N1.

Other hotlines across the country:

Indiana 1-877-826-0011
Minnesota: 1-877-FLU-4141 (1-877-358-4141)
California: 1-888-865-0564
Seattle and King County (Washington): 877-903-KING (5464)


Let me know if you have one in your area.

Many H1N1 Vaccination Clinics across the U.S.

As the H1N1 continues to spread across the United States, so does the effort to distribute the H1N1 vaccination. Today several mass H1N1 clinics are being held to offer those interested an opportunity to get vaccinated. Most clinics have specific requirements about who is eligible. They are included in the links below.

If you know about an H1N1 or Influenza vaccination clinic - add them our search at http://www.wheretofindflushots.com/ and help spread the word.

Wayne County, Michigan
Schoolcraft College in Livonia 10am to 4pm
Hamtramck High School in Hamtramck 10am to 4pm

Macomb County, Michigan
Freedom Hill 9am to 3pm

Washtenaw County, Michigan
Pioneer High School 9am to 2pm

Detroit, Michigan
Northwest Activites Center 11am to 3pm
Coleman Young Center 11 to 3pm
Heilmann Recreation Center 11am to 3pm
LaSED Community Center 11am to 3pm


Chicago, Illinois
Kennedy King College 9am to 2pm
Olive Harvey College 9am to 2pm
Richard Daley College 9am to 2pm
Truman College 9am to 2pm
West Side Technical Institute 9am to 2pm

Washington DC
Eliot-Hine Middle School 8am to 1pm
Kelly Miller Middle School 8an to 1pm
Hardy Middle School 8am to 1pm


Los Angeles -
Ester Snyder Com Center 9am to 3pm
Westchester Recreation Center 9am to 5pm
Baldwin Hills Recreation Center 9am to 5pm
Downey Civic Center

Santa Barbara, CA
Carpintera Fire Station 10am to 2pm

New York
Sheepshead Bay High School 9 to 6pm Sat, 9 to 5pm Sun
Manhatten New School 9 to 6pm Sat, 9 to 5pm Sun
Roberto Clemente 9 to 6pm Sat, 9 to 5pm Sun

Maryland
Prince Frederick 9am to 1pm
Aberdeen High School 9am to noon

Monroe County (Michigan) offers H1N1 Vaccination Clinics

Several community clinics are planned over the next few weeks in Monroe County, Michigan.
The clinics will be held at the Francis Family YMCA, Lutheran High South, MBT EXPO Building, and Bedford High School.


The clinics are being held for individuals in the target group:
Pregnant women
Household contact or caregiver for a child less than 6 months
Health care or emergency medical services personnel
Persons ages 6 months to 24 years
Persons ages 25 to 64 if they have a health condition associated with higher risk of medical complications from influenza.

The Flu Hotline is 734-240-7878. Some clinics may change due to vaccine availability.

Huron County offers H1N1 vaccination Clinic Today

An H1N1 vaccination clinic will be held on Tuesday, November 10 from 4-7 pm at the Huron Area Technical Center (HATC).

Per CDC guidelines, vaccine will be given to members of the initial target group. This group includes:
• pregnant women,
• persons who live with or provide care for infants aged <6 months (e.g., parents, siblings, and daycare providers),
• health-care and emergency medical services personnel,
• children aged 6 months--24 years, and
• persons aged 25-64 who have medical conditions that put them at higher risk for influenza-related complications

Children and adults who have medical conditions that put them at higher risk for influenza-related complications will receive injectable vaccine. Healthy children and adults who meet the above criteria would receive nasal spray. Healthy children and adults who do not want the nasal spray will need to wait to be vaccinated until we receive adequate supplies of injectable inactivated vaccine. A parent or legal guardian must be present for children under 18 years of age. This vaccine is intended for Huron County Residents. There will be no charge for the H1N1 vaccinations.

Additional H1N1 clinics will be scheduled as vaccine shipments are received. Please call 989-269-9721 ext 150 or visit our website at huron.localhealth.net.

12,000 will get H1N1 vaccination in Fairfax County

The Fairfax County Health Department is offering it's second mass vaccination clinic tomorrow to residents of Fairfax County and City of Falls Church.

The clinic will be held at 12000 Government Center Parkway in Fairfax. Immunizations will be given to target groups only.

There will be 12,000 vaccines available during the clinic which runs from 9am to 5pm - Saturday November 7th.

See Where To Find Flu Shots.com for more clinics in your area.

Los Angeles Department of Health offers several H1N1 Vaccine Clinics

The Los Angeles County Health Department is offering H1N1 flu vaccination clinics over the next weeks at area recreation centers including:

Barnes Park Gym - November 6th

The Village at Indian Hills - November 7th

Jesse Owens Park on November 7th and 8th

El Sereno Recreation Center on November 7th and 8th

City of La Mirada Community Gym - November 7th

Hollywood High School - November 8th

Live Oak Park Community Center November 13th

Bradley Milken Youth Center

and more...


It is important to note that demand is overwhelming and the clinics may close earlier than posted hours due to vaccine availablity.

Please check out clinics near you at Where To Find Flu Shots.com -

Macomb County offers H1N1 Clinics over next 2 Saturdays

Macomb County Health Department (MI) has just announced they will be holding an H1N1 clinic at Freedom Hill this Saturday (November 7th) and next Saturday (November 14). They are offering both the Intranasal and Injectable form of the vaccine - and have restrictions on who can get each.

Please check out the links above for more information or use WhereToFindFluShots.com to find a clinic near you.

Bay County (MI) offers two H1N1 Clinics

Bay County Health Department is offering 2 H1N1 Vaccination Clinics over the next few days. Persons will be administered the NasalFlu Mist Vaccine unless specific illnesses or conditions prevent it's use.

The clinics will be held at Bangor Township Hall on Friday November 6th and Pinconning Middle School on November 7th (Saturday).

Check out the http://www.wheretofindflushots.com/ for more details

Stopping the Pig Flu (H1N1) in Your House

Tis the season for constant reminders to cover your mouth and nose, wash your hands, disinfect surfaces to prevent the spread of swine flu. Read below if you are looking for some H1N1-experienced based tips to help you stop spreading the germs in your house:

1. Place bottles of anti-bacterial hand gel around the house - especially by the heavily used areas:
a. Right in front of the family room computer keyboard
b. Kitchen table/island (next to the fruit bowl)
c. Next to the box of tissues (when they grab a tissue - they will see the gel)
d. Next to the TV remote control
e. By the land-line (phone) and/or answering machine

2. Restock your favorite anti-bacterial hand soap (many scents and moisturizers at Bath and Body Works). Place at all sinks in your house.

3. Keep repeating "wash your hands", "cover your mouth" - not only is it a great reminder of forming good habits, but years later tell their own kids the same thing and thank you for caring.

4. Use Disinfectant sprays- According to Lysol: Laboratory tests have shown that many LYSOL® products, when used according to label instructions, are effective against similar strains of Influenza virus H1N1.

5. Clean all common places with disinfectant wipes including:
Handles: Doors (Inside and Outside), Closet, Mailbox, Cabinents
Appliances: refrigerator, freezer, washer, dryer, dishwasher, microwave
Handrails: Stair, porch, bath/shower area

6. Buy an upright toothbrush holder to help keep toothbrushes away from each other. Remember to have them rinse the toothbrush with hot water. See CDC for more toothbrush care tips.

7. Open your windows - weather permitting.

8. Don't share cups or straws. Sharing of utencils is also a no-no.

9. Refrain from kissing - Alternatives can be: Hugging (Bear Hugs are great), Blow a kiss, and a peace sign.

Got a tip for Stopping the Pig? Please let us know!

FYI: If you are looking for the H1N1 vaccine - check out our new website at Where To Find Flu Shots.com

Washington DC Health Department expands H1N1 Clinics

Washington DC Department of Health recently expanded the priority groups to include the following:

Pregnant Women

People caring for infants under 6 months of age

Children and adults from 6 months to 24 years

Health Care Workers and Emergency Responders

People aged 25 to 64 years with underlying medical conditions such as asthma or diabetes.

The clinics will be offered throughout the city at middle and senior high schools including: McKinley Tech Senior High, Cardozo Senior High, Ballou Senior High, Eliot-Hine Middle School, Kelly Miller Middle School, Coolidge Senior High, Hardy Middle School, and Wilson Senior High.

Clinics for tomorrow are :

Coolidge Senior High and McKinley Tech Senior High

For more details on specific clinics - see Where To Find Flu Shots.com

Chicago Department of Public Health sponsors H1N1 Clinics

The Chicago Department of Public Health will be sponsoring walk-in immunization clinics for Chicagoans who are included in the high priority groups defined by the CDC. Flu Clinics will be held at Kennedy King College, Olive Harvey College, Richard J. Daley College, Truman College, Wright College and West Side Technical.

Please see WhereToFindFluShots.com for more dates, times, and locations.


The high priority group includes:
Pregnant women
Household contacts and caregivers of children younger than 6 months of age
Health care and emergency medical service personnel
Children and young adults ages 6 months through 24 years
Persons aged 25 to 64 years who have medical conditions which put them at high risk for complications from influenza


Know about flu clinics in your area? Please add them to Where To Find Flu Shots.com

Washtenaw County (Michigan) Plans H1N1 Vaccination Clinic for High Priority Groups

Washtenaw County Public Health Department (Michigan) has just announced a H1N1 vaccination clinic at Eastern Michigan University's Convocation Center for November 5th. The center is located at 299 North Hewitt Road, Ypsilanti - 48197.
Check out WhereToFindFluShots.com for clinics in your area

The mass H1N1 clinic will run from 10am to 7pm for Washtenaw County residents who are in one of the following high priority groups:
1. Pregnant Women
2. Household and caregiver contacts of children younger than 6 months of age
3. Children 6 months - 4 years
4. Children and adolescents aged 5 - 18 who have medical conditions associated with a higher risk of influenza complications
5. Health care and emergency medical services personnel with direct patient care.

While this venue allows for ample parking and some sheltered waiting areas, all persons should be prepared to wait. They should bring food and water for themselves, if possible. Persons should also dress appropriately for weather.

The public health department expects to distribute 4,000 vaccines through this clinic.

Public Health nurses and educators are available to answer more detailed questions at 734-544-6700.

Know of a flu clinic in your area? Add it to WhereToFindFluShots.com

Ingham County (Michigan) H1N1 Vaccination Clinic

Ingham County Health Department (Michigan) is holding a mass walk-in H1N1 Vaccination Clinic - Thursday - October 29th - from 4pm to 7pm at Chippewa Middle School. (4000 Okemos Road, Okemos, MI).
Update: Check out WhereToFindFluShots.com for clinics in your area.

Vaccine is distributed on a first come-first served basis to people who live in Ingham County and who meet one of the following conditions:

• Pregnant
• Household members who live with an infant under 6 months of age
• Children between 6 months and 4 years old
• People with a medical condition that places them at higher risk for flu-related complications and who are 5 - 64 years old - must bring documentation to verify their medical condition. For example: 1. Doctor's note or prescription for H1N1 vaccine 2. Employ pill bottle/inhaler that identifies the patient 3. Medical bill or old prescription.

It is free, but please present insurance information.

Know of a flu clinic in your area? Add it to Where To Find Flu Shots.com

Genesee County H1N1 Flu Clinic - Nasal Spray Only

The Genesee County Health Department (Michigan) is holding a special H1N1 Walk-In Vaccine Clinic- Thursday - October 29, 2009 from 5pm to 7pm for Genesee County residents. This vaccine clinic is free of charge and is offering the nasal spray vaccine at the Burton Branch location.

Update: Check Where To Find Flu Shots.com for more clinics in your area

The vaccine will be given to priority groups:
Children and young adults ages 2 - 24
Caregivers (ages 25-49) of infants less than 6 months
Health care and emergency medical personnel (under 50 years old)

The vaccine is free to all, but clients with health insurance must bring their health insurance information to receive it at no cost, including Medicare part B and Medicaid.
The nasal spray vaccine is approved for use in people from 2 to 49 years of age who are NOT PREGNANT and who do not have certain health conditions such as:

• Illness with fever or any respiratory illness until 3 days after the symptoms have subsided
• An allergy to any part of the vaccine, including eggs or gelatin
• Children and adolescents receiving aspirin therapy
• A history of Guillain-Barre' syndrome
• Known or suspected immune system problems
• Pregnant women
• People with certain medical conditions such as asthma or reactive airways disease

Know of a flu clinic in your area? Add it WhereToFindFluShots.com

Detroit Area Health Care Experts Discuss Health Care Reform

Interested in understanding more about the current health care reform discussion?
If you are in the Detroit area - tune in Sunday morning (October 25 - 9:30 am) for Spotlight on the news on Channel 7 - WXYZ.

The panelists will include:

Vernice Anthony Davis, President & CEO, Greater Detroit Area Health Council

Kevin Seitz, Executive Vice President, Health Care Value Enhancement, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan

Dr. Richard Smith, President of the Michigan State Medical Society and Henry Ford Health System Physician

Michael Duggan, CEO, The Detroit Medical Center

Detroit Health Department Offers H1N1 Vaccinations

Detroit Health Department (Michigan) is hosting an H1N1 Vaccination Clinic Saturday - October 24, 209 11am to 3pm at the Pathways Center located in the Herman Kiefer Health Complex at 1151 Taylor.

They are also going to have the vaccine available beginning Monday (10/26) at the following locations - check the links to find hours and locations or check out Where To Find Flu Shots.com for flu clinics in your area.

Grace Ross

Northeast

Herman Kiefer, Pathways Center

Beginning November 2nd, the following community based clinics will be offered:

Northwest Activities Center - 18100 Meyers - Mondays and Saturdays 11am to 3pm

Butzel Family Center - 7737 Kercheval - Tuesdays 11am to 3pm

Coleman Young Center - 2751 Robert Bradby Drive - Saturdays 11am to 3pm

Heilmann Recreation Center -19601 Crusade- Weds and Saturdays - 11am to 3pm

Patton Community Center -2301 Woodmere - Thursdays 11am to 3pm

LaSED Community Center - 7150 W. Vernor Highway - Saturdays 11am to 3pm


Click here for more information about The Wayne County Health Department.
Know of a flu clinic in your area? Add it to Where To Find Flu Shots.com

Wayne County H1N1 Flu Clinics

Wayne County (Michigan) is hosting 8 H1N1 Mass Vaccination Walk-in Clinics over the next few months for targeted groups. (Check out Where To Find Flu Shots.com) Targeted Groups include: Pregnant women, individuals 6 months to 24 years old, Persons who live or care for a infant under 6 months, Adults 25 to 64 with underlying medical conditions, health care workers, and emergency personnel.

The 8 H1N1 Clinics are hosted at several area colleges and high schools. All clinics run on a Saturday from 10am to 4pm.

Saturday - October 24th

Hamtramck High School Community Center - 11350 Charest, Hamtramck 48212

Saturday - November 14

Hamtrack High School 11410 Charest, Hamtramck 48212

Schoolcraft Community College 18600 Haggerty Road, Livonia, MI 48152

Saturday - November 21

Huron High School 32044 Huron River, New Boston, MI 48164

Saturday - December 5

Schoolcraft Community College 18600 Haggerty Road, Livonia, MI 48152

Saturday - December 12

Huron High School 32044 Huron River, New Boston, MI 48164

Saturday - December 19

Lincoln Park High School 1701 Champaign Road, Lincoln Park, MI 48146

Saturday - January 9

Lincoln Park High School 1701 Champaign Road, Lincoln Park, MI 48146

Click here for more information about The Wayne County Health Department

Know about flu clinics in your area? Add them to Where To Find Flu Shots.com

Oakland County H1N1 Flu Clinics

Oakland County (Michigan) Health Department will be hosting their first flu clinics today.
Update: Check out Where To Find Flu Shots.com for more clinics in your area

The county is asking residents to consider allowing the "high risk" candidates to get the vaccinations first. High risk candidates are identified as: pregnant women, caretakers for infants under 6 months old, all children and young adults from 6 months to 24 years old, 25 to 64 who have underlying medical conditions.

2 Locations:

Clarkston Junior High School

6595 Waldon Road, Clarkston

Date/Time: Saturday October 24, 2009 - 9am to 5pm

Oakland Community College, Orchard Ridge Campus

27055 Lake Road, Farmington Hill

Date/Time: Saturday, October 24, 2009 9am-5pm

Click here for more information about The Oakland County Health Department

Know about flu clinics in your area? Add them to WhereToFindFluShots.com

TYLENOL Infant and Children Products Recalled

Early this afternoon, McNeil Consumer Healthcare (makers of Tylenol) distributed a recall in conjunction with the FDA of Children's and Infants' TYLENOL® liquid products It is for lots manufactured between April and June 2008.

See the list below- If you have any of the products please compare it against the UPC, Code, and Lot# on the official website.

And be sure to check your cupboard, tell your family, friends, and neighbors -

That's how I found out - Thanks Mom!

Children's Tylenol Plus Cold MS Suspension 4 oz. Grape
Children's Tylenol Suspension 4oz. Grape
Children's Tylenol Suspension 4oz. Bubble Gum
Children's Tylenol Suspension 4oz. Strawberry
Infant’s Tylenol Grape Suspension Drops 1/4oz.
Infant's Tylenol Suspension 1/2oz. Cherry
Children's Dye Free Suspension 4oz. Cherry
Children's Tylenol Suspension 4oz. Cherry
Children's Tylenol Plus Cough & Runny Nose 4oz. Cherry
Infant's Tylenol Suspension Drops 1/2oz. Grape
Children's Tylenol Plus Flu 4oz. Bubble Gum
Children's Tylenol Plus Cold Suspension 4oz. Grape
Children's Tylenol Plus Cough/ST Suspension 4oz. Cherry
Infant's Tylenol Suspension Drops 1oz. Grape
Infant's Tylenol Dye Free Suspension 1oz. Cherry
Children’s Tylenol Pediatric Suspension 1oz. Cherry
Infant's Tylenol Suspension Drops 1oz. Cherry
Children's Tylenol Plus Cold/Allergy 4oz. Bubble Gum
Infant's Tylenol Drops 1oz. Grape
Infant’s Tylenol Grape Suspension Drops H/G 1/2oz.
Children's Tylenol Suspension 4oz. Cherry, Hospital Govt.