Day: October 2, 2023

5 Ways You Could Lose Your Disability Benefits5 Ways You Could Lose Your Disability Benefits

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Most recipients of Social Security Disability benefits continue to receive payments without any issue,but it’s important to remember that disability payments continue so long as you meet the requirements. SSDI and SSI are never guaranteed to last forever and there are several ways for them to be suspended or terminated indefinitely. 

Before applying for social security disability benefits,it’s important to be aware of how they can be canceled. 

Medical Improvements SSI/DI

Social security disability beneficiaries are often approved due to a debilitating injury or a medical condition that prevents them from working,including psychiatric conditions. The Social Security Administration reviews medical beneficiaries every three to seven years to ensure their condition still entitles them to benefits,but if they determine you’re no longer disabled as defined by the SSA and have made enough of a medical improvement,you can lose your benefits. 

Returning to Work & SGA

When a beneficiary begins working again,the income derived from the job can cost them benefits if it exceeds “substantial gainful activity” (SGA). The SGA is determined by the Social Security Administration but follows certain guidelines. Essentially,SGA describes a level of work activity and earnings,considered substantial if it involves significant physical or mental activities. Gainful work activity is defined as work that is performed for pay or profit,the nature of the work is generally performed for work or profit,or is intended for profit. 

If returning to work,a beneficiary can lose their benefits by engaging in SGA. If you’re concerned about losing your benefits in this way,it’s important to talk with an SSI / SSDI attorney. 

Retirement Age & Disability Benefits

For SSDI beneficiaries that reach their full retirement age,they will likely see their disability benefits stop. Social Security retirement benefits and SSDI benefits cannot be issued together and once a person is eligible for retirement they are no longer eligible for their disability. Once retirement age is reached,the SSA will switch over from SSDI payments to your retirement benefits. 

Social Security Disability Benefits & Incarceration

If a person has been incarcerated at either a prison or other penal institution after being convicted of a crime,disability payments will cease until you’re released. It’s important to note that you’ll be eligible again after being incarcerated unless convicted of a felony. Some felony convictions will include a cessation of benefits and/or eligibility as well. 

SSI Asset Limits

If your income or assets rise above the limit for SSI or SSDI eligibility,your payments will cease and you’ll no longer be eligible whole earning too much income. How your income is earned isn’t relevant,unless already crossing the SGA threshold,but earning above the income limit will cost you your benefits. Some acquired assets and income types that count towards these limits include private pensions,spousal income,parental income,inherited assets,and alimony payments. It can be complicated and a complex issue to navigate as a number of factors can go towards crossing the asset limit. If you fear that you may lose your benefits for this reason,consult an experienced SSI or SSDI attorney to help you. 

Protecting Your Social Security Disability Payments

It’s important to know what can trigger your social security disability benefits to cease,especially as some of the reasons for their stopping can be a mistake and are avoidable. As mentioned a few times before,it’s important to consult with an SSI / SSDI attorney who has extensive experiencing protecting people from the cessation of benefits and the SSA itself. 

Here at Marken Law Group,we have a comprehensive understanding of social security benefits. We understand how stressful benefits can be and don’t want to add to your plate during this potentially stressful time. We have represented hundreds of claimants in Washington,Idaho,Montana,Oregon,and California to obtain what is rightfully theirs. We focus on your individual needs and bring our extensive experience to help guide you through. Partner with an experienced ally that is by your side from start to finish and have a qualified social security lawyer to help you.

Secure Your Disability Benefits

Thinking without borders: Challenges Faced By Nursing Staff: A Deep Dive Into A Critical ProfessionThinking without borders: Challenges Faced By Nursing Staff: A Deep Dive Into A Critical Profession

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Nursing staff,often regarded as the backbone of the healthcare system,play an invaluable role in ensuring patients receive optimal care. However,their journey is fraught with challenges that can sometimes make their roles immensely demanding. In this article,we delve into the pressing challenges nursing professionals grapple with and shed light on the need for structural changes to better support these frontline heroes.

  1. Emotional and Physical Burnout

The nature of the nursing profession entails long hours,often without breaks,and dealing with critically ill patients. This relentless schedule can lead to physical exhaustion. organisation. Beyond the physical toll,nurses frequently encounter patients in distress,at the end of their lives,or undergoing significant pain,leading to emotional fatigue. Over time,this combination can result in burnout,manifesting in symptoms such as fatigue,cynicism,reduced efficacy,and even mental health issues

  1. Staffing Shortages

Many healthcare institutions,especially those in regions with limited resources,often face a severe nursing shortage. This means the existing staff is overloaded with work,compromising the quality of care and increasing the chances of errors. The staffing shortage isn’t just about numbers. It’s also about the skill mix; having enough nurses with the right skills and experience is crucial to patient outcomes.

  1. Violence and Harassment

Regrettably,instances of verbal and sometimes physical abuse against nursing staff are not uncommon. These instances can come from patients,their families,or even fellow healthcare professionals. Such occurrences take a significant toll on a nurse’s mental well-being and may deter many from continuing in the profession.

  1. Lack of Professional Growth

While nursing offers numerous avenues for specialization and advancement,not all nurses have access to these opportunities. In some settings,there may be limited openings for professional development,further education,or promotions. Without these growth avenues,nurses may feel stagnant in their roles,leading to decreased job satisfaction.

Explore proactive measures to revive and rejuvenate nursing staff ensuring their long-term well-being and satisfaction

  1. Increasing Administrative Tasks

The rise in the need for documentation and administrative duties means nurses spend less time with patients and more time at the desk. While documentation is crucial for maintaining standards of care and legal protections,an excessive focus on paperwork can detract from the primary role of a nurse: patient care.

  1. Workplace Hazards

Nurses often deal with biohazards,including exposure to infectious diseases,sharp instruments,and harmful chemicals. Moreover,the physical demands of the job – such as lifting patients or being on their feet for extended periods – can lead to musculoskeletal problems. While protocols exist to minimize these risks,they cannot be completely eliminated.

  1. Keeping Pace with Technological Changes

The medical field is rapidly evolving with the integration of technology. New equipment,electronic health records,and telehealth services require nurses to adapt quickly. For some,especially those who have been in the profession for a long time,keeping up with these changes can be daunting.

Preserving the Flame: Strategies to Prevent Nursing Staff Burnout

  1. Ethical Dilemmas

Nurses often find themselves at the crossroads of medical ethics. They might have to respect a patient’s wish even if they don’t believe it’s in the patient’s best interest,or they might witness care disparities due to systemic issues. Such situations can be distressing,as nurses aim to provide the best care possible but may feel restricted by circumstances beyond their control.

The challenges nursing staff face are multi-faceted,ranging from physical and emotional demands to systemic issues in healthcare settings. While these challenges are daunting,they highlight the resilience,commitment,and dedication of nurses worldwide. There’s an urgent need for healthcare systems to recognize these challenges and implement strategies to support and uplift the nursing community. After all,a supported and empowered nurse is fundamental to the well-being of patients and the overall health of the community.

What is Pest Control?What is Pest Control?

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Perplexed by the presence of pests? Bursting with worry over their impact on your activities? Professional “pest control near me” is the solution! From baiting and trapping,to pesticides and biological control,entomologists are equipped with specialized equipment to target and eliminate the population. Plus,newer technologies like ultrasonic devices have been developed for increased effectiveness. Get assistance from a professional pest control company today – they’ve got experience and expertise in targeting those pesky critters while following safety protocols for a safe surrounding environment.

Understanding Pest Infestations

The potential for destruction is real. Pests can wreak havoc on homes and businesses,causing a myriad of issues from property damage to the spread of disease. Contamination of food and reduced product quality are also possible outcomes if not addressed quickly. It’s essential to recognize the risks of an infestation and take proper action before it’s too late; left untreated,pest problems become increasingly more expensive and difficult to resolve. Early detection is key: identifying signs early allows for efficient control methods that limit the amount of damage done and associated costs. Professional assistance in determining the source will offer tailored solutions to help alleviate any current or future infestations.

Signs of a Pest Infestation

Bewilderingly,an infestation of pests can be detected in a multitude of ways. From the buzzing and rustling that may come from within your walls or attic,to droppings,chewed material,and nest-like structures near food sources – these are all telltale signs of unwelcome visitors. Furthermore,some pests are known for leaving behind a musty odor or sticky residue. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms it’s important to contact professional pest control services right away!

Common Pests and Their Control Methods

Pests. Wherever there’s a home or business,they’re lurking. Knowing which kind of pest it is and the severity of the infestation? That’s key for proper pest control. Professional services often provide targeted treatments like baiting,trapping and exclusion to combat household pests like ants,cockroaches and rodents. But termites require special attention – fumigation or insecticides may be necessary in those cases. When the issue becomes serious or complex,call in a pro – they have the expertise to determine what needs to be done and take care of it efficiently!

Understanding Deviated Septum: Causes, Symptoms, and DiagnosisUnderstanding Deviated Septum: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis

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What is a Deviated Septum?

A septum in a deviated septum is the nasal septum or cartilage that divides the inside of your nose into the left and right chambers. 

When the septum deviates from its midline,it causes congestion and difficulty breathing in the smaller chamber. It also causes drying,crusting,or bleeding in the larger chamber.

Common Causes of Deviated Septum

Most people have deviated septums that cause no to minor symptoms. However,there are causes of deviated septums that can cause significant symptoms. The following causes are:

Congenital

The deviated septum can have developmental causes. It can occur at birth due to genetic factors such as hereditary connective tissue diseases.  

Nose Injury

The deviated septum can also come from traumatic causes. An injury can cause the nasal septum to be displaced to either side. It can happen due to falls,fights,contact sports,automobile incidents,or rough playing. Nasal injuries can also occur in babies due to difficult childbirth. 

Aging

A deviated septum is a common condition. As a person grows,the nasal septum can grow to one side than the other. 

Recognizing Deviated Septum Symptoms

A deviated septum can have severe symptoms affecting a person’s everyday life.

The wider chamber of the nose,caused by a deviated septum,is more exposed to air. This exposure can lead to nasal drying,leading to nose bleeds. 

The more constricted chamber,caused by a deviated septum,can result in nasal congestion. The following complications occur with nasal congestion:

  • Recurring sinus infections or sinusitis
  • Sinus pressure
  • Headaches
  • Face pain
  • Noisy breathing
  • Snoring
  • Sleep apnea or difficulty breathing during sleep
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Difficulty breathing can lead to chronic mouth breathing
  • Chronic mouth breathing can lead to a dry mouth

When Should You See a Doctor?

If your symptoms above do not respond to home remedies or over-the-counter medication,you may want to see a doctor to be healthier and live more comfortably. Furthermore,symptoms such as chronic nasal congestion,recurring sinus infections,and frequent nosebleeds require medical consultation.

Diagnosing a Deviated Septum

To diagnose if a person has a deviated septum,your healthcare provider will review your medical history and do a physical examination. If further examination is needed,they may do the following procedures:

Nasal Endoscopy

First,they apply a decongestant spray with lidocaine to prepare your nasal cavity. Lidocaine helps the patient’s comfort with its numbing properties alongside topical anesthesia.

Then,they will use an extended tube scope attached with a bright light and a small camera to look inside. The tube would be connected to a monitor screen.

At the end of the procedure,they will remove the tube and apply a decongestant spray to the nasal cavity again.

CT Scan

If needed,your healthcare provider may recommend a CT scan of the nose. The imaging test can determine the seriousness of the deviated septum and the severity of the symptoms.

After the diagnosis,you may be referred to a sinus surgeon or an ENT specialist. 

How Sinus Surgery Can Help Correct a Deviated Septum

If medical therapy does not alleviate the symptoms you’re experiencing,surgery to correct the deviated septum can be recommended.

Septoplasty involves repositioning and aligning the nasal septum to the center of the nose. With nasal septum correction,the patient can benefit by having proper airflow inside the nasal cavity to alleviate symptoms. 

Depending on the severity of the condition,the surgery can be an outpatient or inpatient procedure that lasts 1-2 hours. In some cases,a surgeon may recommend sinus surgery to minimize sinus infections or rhinoplasty to reshape the nose.

Expert Care and Surgical Solutions at Puget Sound Sinus Center

If you are experiencing chronic sinus disease or nasal obstruction,your healthcare provider may refer you to a sinus surgeon. As the only Fellowship-trained Rhinologist and Endoscopic Skull Base Surgeon worldwide,Amy Anstead,MD,FARS,provides surgical solutions and state-of-the-art techniques to alleviate severe symptoms people experience from deviated septums. 

At Puget Sound Sinus Center,we aim to provide personalized,holistic,patient-centered care for maximum comfort and healing.

A deviated septum can cause a domino effect of symptoms that can interfere with your breathing,sleeping,and health. Having performed thousands of successful complex sinus surgeries,Dr. Anstead has treated patients to a better quality of life around the globe. If you’d like to learn more about deviated septums or other sino-nasal surgeries,click the link below! 

Dr. Amy Anstead