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How Much
Do You Really Know About Arthritis?
Arthritis is a term that many people associate with older
adults experiencing pain in their joints. But did you know that arthritis,
itself, is not a diagnosis, but a term that describes dozens of diseases and
conditions? According to the National Institute of Arthritis and
Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), the word arthritis means joint
inflammation, and may be used to describe any condition affecting the joints,
for people of all ages. In fact, arthritis impacts one in five adults in the
United States and is the leading cause of work disability.
To help you better understand arthritis, we’ve posed five
questions below that explore common arthritic diseases, who is at risk and how
to manage these conditions.
How
many types of arthritis are there?
There are more than 100 types of arthritic diseases, which
can impact the joints, tendons, ligaments and bones by causing stiffness,
swelling and pain. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC), some of the more common types of arthritis include the following:
Osteoarthritis. This kind of arthritis
occurs when joints in the body break down. It’s most commonly experienced in
the hands, hips, knees and back.
Rheumatoid arthritis. This is an autoimmune
disease, meaning the body’s immune system causes deterioration by attacking its
own tissues. It can damage the joints in the hands, wrists and knees.
Potentially, it could also impact the lungs, heart and eyes.
Gout. This type of arthritis tends to
impact only one joint at a time. During a flare-up, uric acid crystals form
within a joint and cause pain, swelling and tenderness. Often, it impacts the
big toe.
Fibromyalgia. By causing pain throughout
the body, fibromyalgia can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of
life and ability to work.
Juvenile arthritis. Also known as childhood
arthritis, this condition impacts nearly 220,000 people younger than 18. It’s
caused by an immune system that is overactive and results in swelling in the
joints.
What
are signs and symptoms to look for?
Because there are so many types of arthritis, and because
symptoms may overlap with other conditions, it can be difficult to diagnose.
The Arthritis Foundation says that if you’re experiencing the following signs
and symptoms you should consider talking to a doctor:
Tenderness, pain, swelling and/or stiffness in one joint or
several joints
Redness on or around a joint
A joint that feels warm
Trouble moving a joint or engaging in your day-to-day
activities
Any joint symptoms that concern you
Who
gets arthritis?
Anyone can get arthritis, no matter their age, gender or
cultural background. However, some groups of people face a higher risk than
others for certain types of arthritis. For example, according to the CDC women
face a higher risk for fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
while men are more likely to develop gout. Further, it’s not uncommon for
people experiencing other chronic conditions, such as obesity, diabetes and
heart disease, to also have arthritis.
Other risk factors can include:
Age, with the risk increasing as you get older
Family history, with some types of arthritis have a
hereditary connection, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and ankylosing
spondylitis
Weight, with people who are overweight or obese facing an
increased risk for osteoarthritis impacting the knees and other joints
Smoking
Certain infections
An injury to a joint
Service in the military
Are
there actions you can take to lower your risk for arthritis?
Possibly. While there is no magic pill that can protect you
from arthritis, some people may be able to reduce their risks or at least delay
the onset of certain types of arthritis, according to the Arthritis Foundation.
For example, maintaining a healthy weight may help lower your risk for
osteoarthritis; quitting (or never starting) smoking may help prevent
rheumatoid arthritis; and eating a healthy diet that is low in sugar and
alcohol as well as purines (that’s a chemical compound that turns into uric acid)
may help decrease your risk for gout.
If you’ve been diagnosed with arthritis, there are a
number of steps that you can take that may help to ease pain and decrease
inflammation. Those include:
See your healthcare provider regularly and follow
their advice. They know you best and can help you devise a plan to
address your symptoms and help you continue to do the things you enjoy in life.
Move more. It may sound counterintuitive, but
physical activity may actual help reduce pain and improve the way you feel and
move, according to the CDC. Try out a variety of joint-friendly activities,
such as cycling, swimming, walking and tai chi. If working out is new to you,
talk to your doctor first. With their approval, start small, aiming for five to
10 minutes at a time, and work towards the goal of 150 minutes per week, along
with two days of strength-building activities.
Manage your weight. Weight can put additional
stress on your joints. Aim to reach or maintain a healthy weight through diet
and exercise. If you’re struggling, ask your doctor for advice.
Make healthy eating choices. Research shows
that some foods can help control inflammation, while others may contribute to
inflammation. People living with arthritis may benefit from an
anti-inflammatory diet, which includes fish, nuts, beans, fruits and vegetables
(the Mediterranean Diet is a good place to look for guidance, according to the
Arthritis Foundation). At the same time, try to limit the foods you eat that
cause inflammation, including processed foods like white bread and pastries,
fried foods, soda and sugary beverages, red meat and processed meats, along
with margarine, shortening and lard.
Take care of your mental health. Any chronic
condition can take a toll on how you’re feeling. And if the condition is
limiting your usual activities, as arthritis may do, it can be especially
stressful and isolating. If you’re feeling hopeless or anxious, or you’ve lost
interest doing the things that once brought you joy, find help. Talk to your
primary care provider or connect with a counselor or therapist. A support group
might also be useful. The Arthritis Foundation is a good place to start if you
think you might benefit from a virtual group.
As mentioned, there are more than 100 different types of
arthritis, ranging from common to rare. While we’ve touched on some of the more
frequently asked questions, there’s still a lot to learn about these
conditions. If you’re concerned about pain, swelling or tenderness you’re
experiencing in your joints, talk to your healthcare provider today.
To find out more about Healthcare Insurance Plans that include
Medicare, Individual & Family, Health & Dental and Vision, call BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama at 251-344-2115.
Understanding the financial aspects of home care is crucial for many families. Its about knowing your options, who to talk to, and where to begin. At Amazing Care, were here to help you navigate through the maze of home care payment options, ensuring you make informed decisions regarding paying for home care services.Home care, an essential service for many, can sometimes be a financial burden. However, with the right information and resources, you can find ways to manage these costs effectively. Amazing Care offers several payment options to alleviate this burden.Medicaid: A viable option for those who meet certain income and health requirements. Amazing Care accepts Medicaid for qualifying services, providing a lifeline for many in need of home care without the financial means to afford it out-of-pocket. For more detailed information on how you can utilize Medicaid for services at Amazing Care, visit our Medicaid payment options page.Medicare: Typically, Medicare covers medically necessary home health care services. If you or your loved one is a Medicare beneficiary, you might be eligible for coverage of Amazing Cares services. This includes nursing care, physical therapy, and more under certain conditions outlined by Medicare guidelines. To understand how Medicare can help cover your home care needs with Amazing Care, check out Amazing Cares Medicare guide.Private Insurance: Home care covered by insurance is available, and many private health insurance policies include home care services. Coverage details can vary widely, so its essential to contact your insurance provider to understand the specifics of your policy. Amazing Care works with numerous private insurance plans, assisting you in maximizing your benefits. For insights on navigating private insurance with Amazing Care, visit our private insurance payment options page.Starting this journey can be overwhelming, but youre not alone. The first step is to contact Amazing Care to discuss your needs and payment options. Our team is dedicated to guiding you through the process, ensuring you access the care you need without undue financial stress. By exploring Medicaid, Medicare, and private insurance options, youll find a path to covering the costs of home care. Questions, please contact us at 303-755-3170.
Becoming eligible for Medicare is a significant milestone in your life. Whether you are newly turning 65 or approaching eligibility due to disability, understanding your Medicare options can feel overwhelming. With multiple parts, plans, and enrollment periods, making the right choice is essential to protect your health and finances.Thats where Inman Medical Insurance Services steps in helping Medicare-eligible individuals and their families navigate the complex landscape of Medicare insurance with clarity, confidence, and care.Understanding Medicare: A Quick OverviewMedicare is the federal health insurance program for people 65 and older, younger individuals with certain disabilities, and those with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). It consists of several parts: Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care. Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers outpatient services like doctor visits, preventive care, and some home health services. Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) plans are offered by private companies approved by Medicare and include Part A and B benefits, often with added perks. Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage) helps cover the cost of medications through private plans. Choosing the right combination of these parts depends on your health needs, budget, and preferences.Why Professional Guidance Matters When Choosing Medicare PlansMedicare is not a one-size-fits-all program. With dozens of Medicare Advantage and Part D plans available in many areas, it can be challenging to understand differences in coverage, premiums, deductibles, copays, and provider networks. Making an uninformed decision could mean paying more than necessary or missing coverage for services you need.Inman Medical Insurance Services offers personalized Medicare consulting to ensure you: Understand your Medicare benefits and options Identify plans that best fit your health needs and financial situation Avoid costly penalties by enrolling during the correct periods Navigate changes to your Medicare coverage over time This professional guidance saves time, reduces confusion, and empowers you to make decisions with peace of mind.Services Offered by Inman Medical Insurance ServicesAt Inman Medical Insurance Services, youll find a trusted partner with a deep knowledge of Medicare plans and regulations. Their services include:1. Medicare Eligibility CounselingIf youre turning 65 or recently became eligible due to disability, the team helps you understand when and how to enroll in Medicare, including your initial enrollment period and special circumstances.2. Medicare Plan Comparison and EnrollmentThey analyze available Medicare Advantage, Medigap (Medicare Supplement Insurance), and Part D prescription drug plans in your area. By comparing costs, coverage, and provider networks, they help you select a plan that fits your unique needs.3. Annual Medicare Review and Plan OptimizationMedicare plans can change year to year. Inman Medical Insurance Services offers yearly reviews during the open enrollment period (October 15 December 7) to ensure your plan remains the best option, or help you switch plans if needed.4. Assistance with Medicare Appeals and ClaimsIf you encounter coverage denials or billing issues, their experts assist with navigating appeals and resolving Medicare claims, reducing stress and ensuring your rights are protected.5. 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Local Presence: Familiar with regional plan options and resources in Pennsylvania. Ongoing Support: Available year-round for questions, enrollment, and plan changes. Medicare FAQs Answered by Inman Medical Insurance ServicesQ: When should I sign up for Medicare? A: Your Initial Enrollment Period begins three months before your 65th birthday, includes the month you turn 65, and ends three months after. Signing up during this window avoids late enrollment penalties.Q: Whats the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medigap? A: Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans are all-in-one coverage offered by private companies and often include extra benefits like vision or dental. Medigap plans supplement Original Medicare by covering out-of-pocket costs.Q: Can I change my Medicare plan every year? A: Yes. During the Annual Enrollment Period (Oct 15 Dec 7), you can switch Medicare Advantage plans or Part D prescription drug plans.Q: How can I reduce my Medicare costs? A: Programs like Medicaid, Extra Help for prescription drugs, and Medicare Savings Programs can lower premiums and out-of-pocket costs. Inman Medical Insurance Services helps you find and apply for these.Take the Next Step Toward Medicare ConfidenceNavigating Medicare can be complicated, but you dont have to do it alone. Let Inman Medical Insurance Services guide you through the process with clarity and confidence. Their expert support ensures you select the right plan for your needs and budget, now and in the years ahead. For personalized Medicare help and a no-obligation consultation, call us today at 724-306- 8802. 6-8802
Dont Wait: Why End-of-Life Conversations Cant Be Put Off According to an article by Johns Hopkins Medicine, two-thirds of Americans dont have a living will or advance directive. Planning ahead can help reduce stress and uncertainty for both seniors and their loved ones. A lot of people dont know what an advance directive is, says Lectoria Byron, a social worker with our Mobile, Alabama program. So, its giving them that knowledgeinforming them of exactly what it is and how it can help them. That eases a lot of anxiety. We sat down with Lectoria and Registered Nurse & Case Manager Amanda Albright to find out why these decisions matter and how the PACE care model fosters them. What is an advance directive and why does it matter? An advance directive is a legal document that explains what kind of medical care you want if you cant speak for yourself. It usually has two main parts: A living will, which says what treatments you do or dont want.A durable power of attorney for healthcare, which names someone you trust to make medical choices for you. Imagine for yourself, Amanda says. Someone you love deeply is in crisis because somethings happened to youand they cant find your funeral plans, your bank statements, or your healthcare wishes. They wont have time to grieve because theyre forced to focus on the paperwork and decisions that could have already been made. How does PACE help with these difficult conversations? Both Lectoria and Amanda emphasized education and pre-planning as the biggest ways their team offers support. Lectoria and the other care team members talk about advance directives during check-ins that happen twice a year. We break it up into manageable steps so its not overwhelming, Lectoria says. In Alabama, we have a basic form that requires two signatures and two witnesses, and we help guide participants through it. If a participant requires legal guardianship or their request involves filing documentation in court, we help connect them with resources like free legal aid, Lectoria adds. She said the best way to approach the conversation is to keep it simple. When you dont work directly with death or dying, its hard to know how to begin, Lectoria explains. But it doesnt take special training. You start by asking: Do you know what an advance directive is? A living will? A power of attorney? Then we offer information and ask: What are your wishes? PACE also provides brochures and other educational materials to help participants review their options in their own time. Checking in every six months ensures these decisions remain a priority. What is the advantage of a participant having their PACE team facilitate the conversation? The PACE team consists of a primary care physician, skilled nurse, social worker, physical therapist, recreation therapist, occupational therapist, and a chaplain. Amanda explains, The team approach keeps any one staff member from carrying all the emotional weight. And the participant hears a consistent message from different perspectiveseach member offering their own short summary or advice. That consistency builds trust and understanding. It gives a lot of credibility, Amanda says. PACEs structure also allows for something rare in modern healthcare: time. Were not seeing 16 patients an hour, Amanda says. We have the privilege to slow down and help people understand. That makes all the difference. Planning ahead for your care isnt just about filling out formsits about showing love, respect, and helping everyone feel more at peace. At PACE, were here to support you and your family through every part of aging, even the tough conversations. To find out more about Mercy LIFE and their innovative care program for Seniors, contact them at 251-287-8427.
Let's Get to Know Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama a Little BetterSince 1936, we've been doing our part to provide quality, affordable healthcare coverage to each and every one of our members, at every stage of their lives. We are proud to be the number one provider of healthcare benefits in Alabama.Quick FactsWe are the largest provider of healthcare benefits in Alabama.We are proud to provide coverage to over 2.8 million people.We pay billions of dollars in benefits each year.We employ over 3,300 people.Our corporate headquarters is located in Birmingham, Alabama.We Cover What MattersHappy, healthy lives - for you and your family. There's not much that matters more. Since 1936, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama has provided peace of mind to our members by delivering access to quality, affordable healthcare in a caring manner. As an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, we are a trusted name in the healthcare industry.We Cover Alabamians ... and MoreWe are proud to be number one in providing healthcare benefits in Alabama, and we have a growing national footprint as well. We cover over 2.8 million members, including over 2 million Alabamians and an additional 840,000 nationwide. We have been chosen by over 19,400 employer groups as their health insurer, from small business owners in Alabama to some of the largest corporations in the nation - They all count on us to administer their health, dental and pharmacy programs. So do thousands of individuals throughout the state.We Deliver ValueWe are one of the most efficient health insurers in the entire industry, providing the best value for our member's healthcare dollar. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama is proud latest reports show Alabama has the fourth lowest average annual single premium and the sixth lowest average annual family premium among employers nationwide. This is according to the Federal Governments 2021 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) conducted by the Department of Health and Human Services.We Truly CareIn addition to this strong level of commitment to our members, we are also dedicated to giving back to the community. As a corporation, we strive to improve the health and well-being of Alabamians by investing in charitable organizations across the state. Our employees are also tremendous supporters of United Way and devote personal time and financial resources to numerous charitable efforts in the community.We Have the Best EmployeesOur employees are our greatest asset, and their commitment to providing our members the best service possible is the key to our success. We employ over 3,200 people. We're headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, with service and satellite offices throughout the state.Looking for Health Insurance?Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama offers:Individual & FamilyMedicare Select PlanDentalTravelShort TermMedicareEmployersVisionContact Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama at 251-344-2155 for more information.
Let's Get to Know Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama a Little BetterSince 1936, we've been doing our part to provide quality, affordable healthcare coverage to each and every one of our members, at every stage of their lives. We are proud to be the number one provider of healthcare benefits in Alabama.Quick FactsWe are the largest provider of healthcare benefits in Alabama.We are proud to provide coverage to over 2.8 million people.We pay billions of dollars in benefits each year.We employ over 3,300 people.Our corporate headquarters is located in Birmingham, Alabama.We Cover What MattersHappy, healthy lives - for you and your family. There's not much that matters more. Since 1936, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama has provided peace of mind to our members by delivering access to quality, affordable healthcare in a caring manner. As an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, we are a trusted name in the healthcare industry.We Cover Alabamians ... and MoreWe are proud to be number one in providing healthcare benefits in Alabama, and we have a growing national footprint as well. We cover over 2.8 million members, including over 2 million Alabamians and an additional 840,000 nationwide. We have been chosen by over 19,400 employer groups as their health insurer, from small business owners in Alabama to some of the largest corporations in the nation - They all count on us to administer their health, dental and pharmacy programs. So do thousands of individuals throughout the state.We Deliver ValueWe are one of the most efficient health insurers in the entire industry, providing the best value for our member's healthcare dollar. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama is proud latest reports show Alabama has the fourth lowest average annual single premium and the sixth lowest average annual family premium among employers nationwide. This is according to the Federal Governments 2021 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) conducted by the Department of Health and Human Services.We Truly CareIn addition to this strong level of commitment to our members, we are also dedicated to giving back to the community. As a corporation, we strive to improve the health and well-being of Alabamians by investing in charitable organizations across the state. Our employees are also tremendous supporters of United Way and devote personal time and financial resources to numerous charitable efforts in the community.We Have the Best EmployeesOur employees are our greatest asset, and their commitment to providing our members the best service possible is the key to our success. We employ over 3,200 people. We're headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, with service and satellite offices throughout the state.Looking for Health Insurance?Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama offers:Individual & FamilyMedicare Select PlanDentalTravelShort TermMedicareEmployersVisionContact Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama at 251-344-2155 for more information.