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Pop Quiz: Test your knowledge of managed-care plans

Preventing health insurance mishaps by knowing how you’re covered THERE’S NO GETTING around the fact that healthcare insurance plans can be complicated and confusing. There are many different types of plans, such as managed-care plans, and each has its own set of rules and requirements. However, having the right information — down to the smallest…
Health insurance update: Who falls in the coverage gap and how can they get insured?

“I think most of the providers that volunteer feel a moral and ethical obligation to help take care of those people.” — Dr. David Loewy, volunteer with We Care of Polk County LOCAL RESIDENTS who have issues getting health insurance coverage are fortunate in that there are many agencies here that offer a wide range…
Medicare and end-of-life care: What’s changing?

New proposed policy encourages the process of advanced-care planning END-OF-LIFE DECISIONS are complicated and fraught with emotion, but a recent announcement by Medicare will hopefully offer some clarity to those facing such tough decisions. In early July, Medicare announced plans to pay doctors, nurse practitioners, and physician’s assistants for conversations with patients concerning end-of-life care.…

Healthy Cook: Easy and delicious ways to cook fish

In the culinary world we find ourselves in today, it seems as though many unhealthy foods have crept their way onto our tables and into our laps while driving. With a little extra time, however, there are some delicious, healthy ways to prepare a meal everyone is sure to enjoy. One of the best ways…
More vaccine options make flu protection easier than ever

Now you have more to choose from when it comes to getting a flu shot. Vaccination against the influenza virus is the most effective method for preventing the flu and its complications like pneumonia. Vaccine experts agree that everyone older than 6 months of age should get an annual flu vaccine. This recommendation is…
Sweet recipe ideas for you and your sweetheart

Roses are red Violets are blue Sugar is sweet And has calories, too. Candy and flowers are traditional Valentine gifts. Diamonds are a close runner-up. There are no calories from wearing diamonds but you can tote around calories from sweets for years when they take up residence on your hips. One gram of…