Author: dayat

Title: Exploring Affordable Mental Health Therapy Options Online

Posted by dayat on in Mental Health Resources
Affordable therapy

Beginning with Affordable mental health therapy options online, the narrative unfolds in a compelling and distinctive manner, drawing readers into a story that promises to be engaging and uniquely memorable. As we delve into the realm of online therapy services, a world of accessible mental health support awaits those seeking affordable solutions.

In the following paragraphs, we will explore the importance of affordable mental health therapy, highlight various online platforms offering cost-effective services, and delve into the benefits of choosing online therapy for its cost-saving advantages.

Affordable Mental Health Therapy Options Online

Seeking affordable mental health therapy is crucial for individuals who may not have the financial means to access traditional in-person therapy sessions. It is essential to have accessible options for those in need of support for their mental well-being.

Online Platforms Offering Affordable Therapy Services

There are several online platforms that provide affordable mental health therapy services to individuals. These platforms offer various options such as text-based therapy, video sessions, and phone consultations at more affordable rates compared to traditional therapy sessions.

  • BetterHelp: BetterHelp is an online therapy platform that connects users with licensed therapists for virtual sessions at affordable prices.
  • Talkspace: Talkspace offers therapy services through messaging, video, and voice calls with licensed professionals at affordable rates.
  • 7 Cups: 7 Cups provides free emotional support and affordable online therapy with trained listeners and therapists.

Benefits of Online Therapy in Terms of Cost Savings

Online therapy offers several benefits in terms of cost savings for individuals seeking mental health support. Some of these benefits include:

  • Lower Session Costs: Online therapy sessions are often priced lower than traditional in-person therapy sessions, making them more accessible to individuals on a budget.
  • No Travel Expenses: With online therapy, there is no need to travel to a therapist’s office, saving money on transportation costs.
  • Flexible Payment Options: Many online therapy platforms offer flexible payment plans and subscriptions, allowing individuals to choose the option that best fits their budget.

Healthcare

Affordable mental health therapy plays a crucial role in improving overall healthcare accessibility by providing individuals with the opportunity to seek professional help for their mental health concerns without the burden of high costs.

Cost Comparison: Online Therapy vs. In-Person Therapy

Online therapy tends to be more cost-effective compared to traditional, in-person therapy sessions. This is because online therapy eliminates the need for commuting expenses, reduces overhead costs for therapists, and often offers more flexible pricing options. Additionally, online therapy allows individuals to access therapy from the comfort of their own homes, saving time and money that would have otherwise been spent on travel.

Role of Insurance Coverage

Insurance coverage plays a significant role in making mental health therapy more affordable for individuals. Many insurance plans now include mental health coverage as part of their benefits, which can help offset the costs of therapy sessions. By utilizing insurance coverage, individuals can access the mental health support they need without having to worry about the financial burden.

It is essential for individuals to check their insurance plans to understand the extent of mental health coverage available to them and take advantage of these benefits for more accessible therapy options.

Addictions

Affordable therapy

Online mental health therapy can be a valuable resource for individuals struggling with addiction. With the convenience and accessibility of virtual sessions, affordable online therapy options can provide much-needed support for those seeking to overcome their addiction and work towards recovery.

Specialized Online Therapy Programs for Addiction Treatment

  • Therapy apps and online platforms offering specialized addiction counseling and support.
  • Virtual support groups focusing on addiction recovery and relapse prevention.
  • Online therapy sessions with licensed therapists trained in addiction treatment.

Cost-effectiveness of Online Therapy for Addiction Recovery

Online therapy for addiction recovery can often be more cost-effective compared to traditional in-person therapy methods. With lower overhead costs for providers, online therapy sessions can be offered at a more affordable rate, making it accessible to a wider range of individuals seeking help for their addiction.

Alternative Treatment

When it comes to cost-effective mental health therapy options online, alternative treatments can provide a holistic approach that is both affordable and effective. These alternative therapies focus on treating the mind, body, and spirit to promote overall well-being.

Holistic Online Therapy Options

Holistic online therapy options for mental health offer a comprehensive approach to healing that considers the individual as a whole. These treatments may include techniques such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, art therapy, and acupuncture, among others. By addressing mental health issues from multiple angles, holistic therapy can provide long-lasting benefits.

Benefits of Alternative Treatments

  • Alternative treatments often have fewer side effects compared to traditional medication, making them a safer option for many individuals.
  • These therapies can help individuals develop coping mechanisms and self-care practices that can be used in their daily lives.
  • Alternative treatments can complement traditional therapy approaches, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the treatment plan.
  • By focusing on the root causes of mental health issues, alternative therapies aim to provide sustainable relief and long-term results.

Beauty and Cosmetics

When it comes to mental health therapy and the beauty/cosmetics industry, there is a significant connection that is often overlooked. Many individuals turn to beauty products and cosmetics as a form of self-care and therapy. Engaging in skincare routines, makeup application, or pampering oneself with beauty treatments can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

Affordable Therapy Options Online for Mental Well-being and Self-care

Affordable therapy options online can play a crucial role in promoting mental well-being and self-care practices, which in turn can reflect positively in beauty and cosmetic choices. By having access to affordable therapy, individuals can work on improving their self-esteem, managing stress, and addressing underlying mental health issues that may influence their beauty routines.

This holistic approach to self-care can lead to more confidence and a healthier relationship with beauty products.

Impact of Mental Health on Beauty and Cosmetic Choices

  • Mental health can directly impact beauty and cosmetic choices, as individuals may use makeup or skincare products as a coping mechanism for low self-esteem or anxiety.
  • Stress and mental health issues can manifest in skin problems, leading individuals to seek out specific beauty products to address these concerns.
  • Positive mental well-being can result in a more balanced approach to beauty, focusing on self-care and enhancing natural features rather than covering up perceived flaws.
  • Overall, prioritizing mental health through therapy can lead to healthier beauty habits and a more positive relationship with cosmetics.

Natural and Physical Science

The field of natural and physical science plays a crucial role in understanding the effectiveness of online mental health therapy. Advancements in technology have made affordable online therapy more accessible, leading to a shift in how mental health services are delivered.

Additionally, scientific research has highlighted the correlation between mental health and physical well-being, shedding light on the interconnectedness of the mind and body.

Scientific Evidence Supporting Online Mental Health Therapy

Online mental health therapy has been backed by scientific evidence showing its effectiveness in treating various mental health conditions. Studies have revealed that online therapy can be just as beneficial as traditional in-person therapy, with some cases even showing superior outcomes.

The convenience and accessibility of online platforms have also been shown to increase treatment adherence and engagement among individuals seeking mental health support.

Advancements in Technology and Accessibility

The rapid advancements in technology have significantly improved the accessibility of affordable online therapy options. Telehealth platforms and secure communication tools have made it easier for individuals to connect with licensed therapists from the comfort of their own homes. This digital transformation has not only expanded the reach of mental health services but has also reduced barriers such as geographical limitations and transportation issues.

Correlation Between Mental Health and Physical Well-being

Scientific research has established a strong correlation between mental health and physical well-being, emphasizing the interconnected nature of the mind and body. Mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and stress can have a direct impact on physical health, leading to a variety of symptoms and health issues.

Conversely, maintaining good physical health through exercise, nutrition, and adequate sleep can positively influence mental well-being, highlighting the importance of a holistic approach to healthcare.

Medicine

Integrating mental health therapy into modern medical practices is crucial for providing comprehensive care to patients. Mental health professionals work alongside medical doctors to address the emotional and psychological aspects of a patient’s well-being, leading to better overall health outcomes.

Online therapy services provided by medical professionals offer a convenient and accessible way for individuals to receive mental health support. Through virtual platforms, patients can connect with licensed therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists from the comfort of their own homes, eliminating barriers such as transportation or scheduling conflicts.

Cost-Efficient Nature of Online Therapy in Medicine

  • Online therapy eliminates the need for in-person visits, reducing costs associated with transportation and office overhead.
  • Patients can often choose from a variety of affordable subscription-based models or pay-per-session options, making therapy more accessible to those with financial constraints.
  • Insurance coverage for online therapy services is becoming more common, further lowering out-of-pocket expenses for patients seeking mental health treatment.

Mental Health

When it comes to mental health, seeking therapy online has become increasingly popular due to its convenience and accessibility. There are various types of therapies available online to address different mental health conditions, providing individuals with the support they need.

Types of Therapies Available Online

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This type of therapy focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors to improve mental health.
  • Psychodynamic Therapy: A therapy that explores unconscious thoughts and feelings to address underlying issues.
  • Interpersonal Therapy: This therapy focuses on improving communication and relationships to alleviate mental health symptoms.
  • Mindfulness-Based Therapy: Incorporating mindfulness techniques to manage stress, anxiety, and depression.

Challenges and Benefits of Online Therapy

  • Challenges:Limited non-verbal cues, potential technological issues, and concerns about privacy and security.
  • Benefits:Accessibility, affordability, flexibility in scheduling, and the ability to receive therapy from the comfort of home.

Tips for Online Therapy Seekers

  • Choose a reputable online therapy platform with licensed therapists.
  • Ensure a secure and private online environment for therapy sessions.
  • Communicate openly with your therapist about your goals and concerns.
  • Stay committed to the therapy process and be consistent with attending sessions.

Nutrition

When it comes to mental health, the relationship between nutritional choices and well-being is crucial. A balanced diet plays a significant role in supporting mental health, and incorporating nutrition education into online therapy programs can enhance the overall effectiveness of treatment.

Online Therapy Programs with Nutrition Education

Online therapy programs that include nutrition education can provide individuals with valuable information on how food choices impact mental health. By learning about the connection between nutrition and well-being, clients can make informed decisions that support their mental health goals.

  • These programs may offer guidance on incorporating nutrient-rich foods into one’s diet to improve mood and cognitive function.
  • They may also educate individuals on the importance of hydration and the impact of dehydration on mental well-being.
  • Additionally, online therapy programs with nutrition education may provide resources for meal planning and healthy recipe ideas.

Role of a Balanced Diet in Supporting Mental Health

A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, can positively impact mental health. By fueling the body and brain with the necessary nutrients, individuals may experience improved mood, reduced anxiety, and enhanced cognitive function.

  • Consuming whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, can help support mental well-being.
  • Balancing macronutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, and fats can help stabilize blood sugar levels and promote sustained energy throughout the day.
  • Hydration is also essential for mental health, as dehydration can lead to fatigue, mood changes, and cognitive impairment.

Pharmacy

When it comes to mental health therapy, the use of pharmaceutical treatments plays a crucial role in managing various conditions. Medications prescribed by pharmacists are often essential in alleviating symptoms and improving overall well-being.

Online therapy offers an affordable alternative to traditional in-person therapy sessions, especially when considering the costs associated with medication for mental health conditions. By providing convenient and cost-effective therapy options, individuals can access the support they need without breaking the bank.

Connection between Mental Health Therapy and Pharmaceutical Treatments

  • Pharmaceutical treatments, such as antidepressants or antianxiety medications, are often prescribed in conjunction with therapy to address mental health conditions effectively.
  • Medications can help regulate brain chemistry, alleviate symptoms, and improve the effectiveness of therapy sessions.
  • Collaboration between therapists and pharmacists is essential to ensure a holistic approach to mental health care.

Affordability of Online Therapy vs. Medication

  • Online therapy sessions are often more cost-effective than traditional in-person therapy, making mental health support more accessible to a wider range of individuals.
  • While medication costs can vary, online therapy eliminates the need for transportation expenses and reduces the overall financial burden associated with mental health treatment.
  • Some online therapy platforms also offer sliding scale fees or financial assistance programs to make therapy even more affordable for those in need.

Complementing Pharmacy Services with Online Therapy

  • Online therapy can complement pharmacy services by providing individuals with a comprehensive approach to mental health care.
  • Therapists can work closely with pharmacists to monitor medication effectiveness, side effects, and overall progress in treatment.
  • Access to online therapy can enhance medication adherence and support individuals in managing their mental health conditions more effectively.

Last Point

In conclusion, the landscape of mental health therapy is evolving to meet the needs of a digital era. By embracing affordable online therapy options, individuals can access crucial support in a convenient and cost-effective manner. Whether seeking help for addiction, exploring alternative treatments, or simply aiming for better mental well-being, the realm of online therapy offers a promising path to healing and growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I find affordable mental health therapy options online?

You can explore various online platforms that offer sliding scale fees, free trials, or affordable subscription plans for therapy services.

Are online therapy services as effective as traditional in-person therapy?

Research suggests that online therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy, offering convenience and accessibility to individuals seeking mental health support.

Does insurance cover online therapy sessions?

Some insurance plans now cover online therapy sessions, making mental health support more affordable and accessible to policyholders.

Career Opportunities in Healthcare Management Through Online Healthcare Training

Posted by dayat on in Uncategorized

A healthcare administration career via online healthcare management training requires no medical background. This is the field relating to the leadership, management and administration of healthcare systems, hospitals and hospital networks. Healthcare administration covers a broad area of activities and there is usually a set of factors that determine the types of jobs that need to be done to run any given facility; these often include the size and scope of the facility in question and the kinds of medical/ healthcare facilities they have.

Healthcare administrators are vital to the successful operation of any healthcare system. The day to day running and financial sides to healthcare require dedicated professionals to work on areas from clerical to administrative to financial. Healthcare professionals, also known as healthcare managers or health services managers are regular business managers who plan, direct, coordinate and supervise the delivery of health services. These managers can be specialists in charge of a specific department or managing entire facilities. Healthcare education has recently found a new home on the internet, with thousands of people pursuing online healthcare education and online training in order to improve their professional skills and profiles or to take the opportunity to switch to this lucrative and satisfying career from another field.

The following is a brief description of some of the major areas in healthcare administration for which extensive online health care administration and management education and training is now available.

General Administration

Healthcare organizations, like all other types of businesses, are often profit based businesses requiring the highest quality of managerial oversight. A healthcare unit requires a whole top and middle management team in order to function. Matters related to budgeting, profit and future expansion is also, likewise, a managerial responsibility (especially in larger facilities like hospitals).

Healthcare managers in administration positions normally answer to the board of directors. The workload is higher than for many other areas, with administrators often required to work between 55-60 hours a week, however, compensation and career benefits are attractive and the work itself is stable to a great extent. Growth opportunities are numerous and salaries are also amongst the higher levels, with healthcare administration staff making $40,000-50,000 for a start and improving to $120,000-130,000 within 10 or 11 years.

Human Resource (HRM)

HR professionals specializing in healthcare are responsible to maintain a working, motivated staff for all departments. They are often responsible for the hiring of medical staff (doctors, nurses etc) and generally fulfilling HR duties as in any other organization. These professionals average a salary of around $35,000 to $100,000 per year.

Medical information technology (MIT)

With great advancements in information sharing and technology, healthcare has changed drastically over the last few years. With the continued application of new technology in healthcare, a team of professionals is required to operate and maintain information systems (and networks), diagnostic machines, computer systems and software. They are also responsible for upgrading and problem solving. Professionals in this area earn anywhere in the range of $40,000-$100,000; the job description itself varying with the type of facility.

Public relations (marketing)

PR managers in healthcare are responsible for improving the healthcare facilities’ image in the public eye and to keep the surrounding public informed about the facilities and services offered at the healthcare unit. PR managers are also responsible for providing coordination services and information in the event of an emergency or disaster. PR managers are also the spokespersons for their respective facilities, representatives for the unit, and speak for the organization (for instance in the event of a lawsuit etc). They fall into the same pay grade as MIT or HRM professionals.

Finance

Finance professionals hold a critical importance today for healthcare at a par with doctors and nurses. The cost of healthcare is rising all the time, it is important to keep not only the facility profitable, but also to make healthcare as affordable as possible. These professionals are responsible for detailed financial aspects like budgeting, accounting, auditing and income & expenditure; also finding ways for administrators to cut costs and improve finding. Finance managers in smaller facilities average the same pay-scale as those for HRM and MIT; however those for larger facilities and with more experience can make considerably more than that ($80,000-$200,000 a year).

IAQ in Healthcare Environments – Transition Healthcare Challenges

Posted by dayat on in Uncategorized

As the economy heads further down the slippery slope of what promises to be a deep recession, and our healthcare infrastructure continues to grow and age, it is a natural progression to see more and more IAQ professionals turn to what some believe is a recession resistant market. From ambulatory facilities to long term care, the buildings that make up our healthcare infrastructure are constantly in need of renovations and repair. This new and promising opportunity for IAQ pros offers many long term rewards but is not without new and complex challenges that must be addressed.

Every IEP realizes the importance of appropriate use of antimicrobials, containment barriers and personal protection. Though often times IEPs find the regulations and guidelines they encounter in healthcare facilities to be daunting to say the least. In traditional remediation environments the focus is to ultimately provide an environment free of dangerous pathogens or contaminants. While attention is give to the methodology, often times the end results dwarf the means of acquiring those results. With a host of accepted methods to address indoor air quality in businesses, homes and public spaces the contractor finds themselves able to select from a variety of methods to deal with each issue. In the end it is the air clearance that counts, not so much which method was used to obtain it.

While the end results are just as, if not more important in healthcare environments; far more attention must be paid to the processes used. As many occupants of a healthcare facility cannot be moved and are highly susceptible to infection, there are very specific guidelines in place that govern all maintenance, repair and renovation work in a healthcare facility. Organizations like CDC, APIC and JCAHO have placed standards that apply to all activities that may have an impact on a healthcare environment. This is done with good reason considering the number HAIs (Hospital Acquired Infections) reported annually due to airborne pathogens like Aspergillus, which is disturbed during common daily maintenance. Nosocomial infections caused from routine maintenance reach into the hundreds of thousands each year. These guidelines and regulations are enforced in a facility by ICPs or infection control professionals.

Hospitals continually adapt to new, more stringent CMS guidelines limiting what medical treatments are reimbursable through Medicare or Medicaid, this has caused hospital administration to look more closely at every aspect of infection control in their facility. Beginning in October of 2008, Medicare and Medicaid began limiting payments made to facilities for the treatment of preventable nosocomial infections or conditions. These new CMS guidelines are driven by Section 5001(c) of the Deficit Reduction Act, which could mean that as deficits climb the list of non-reimbursable conditions are likely to grow. Infections like Aspergillosis, which is caused by airborne A.Fumigatus, are common in healthcare facilities. Aspergillus is one airborne pathogen that is commonly disturbed and distributed throughout a facility after maintenance work or renovations. The argument could be made that Aspergillosis is a preventable condition by ensuring appropriate containment and disinfection of disturbed areas.

Infection control professionals in healthcare environments have become increasingly diligent in monitoring the actions of contractors that work in their facilities. It is ICP’s responsibility to ensure all components of the infection control risk assessment are adhered to. While these key people can complicate the lives of the contractors working in healthcare facilities they are also actively saving lives by doing so. ICP’s will monitor and log details about each project to ensure that all compliance issues are being addressed. Two primary issues that impact infection control and prevention in healthcare settings are disinfection of contaminated surfaces with broad spectrum EPA registered disinfectants and appropriate containment of airborne particulate and pathogens.

Choosing the best disinfectant is one way to ensure the best possible level of microbial control during any abatement project in a facility. Healthcare facilities present the IEP with a unique set of challenges in regards to pathogens beyond the standard fungal and bacterial flora. Many of these pathogens can be highly infectious as well as drug resistant making them far more dangerous to the many immunocompromised patients housed in a healthcare facility. When selecting a hospital grade disinfecting it is imperative to keep several things in mind.

Does your disinfectant have sufficient kill claims to address the microbes you might encounter?
While no disinfectant can list every possible organism, it is important to find a disinfectant with the most possible EPA registered kill claims. Look for efficacy data. Disinfectants that do not show efficacy & testing data often have few or irrelevant kill claims and are not sufficient for the challenges found in healthcare facilities. It is also a positive if your disinfectant has EPA approved efficacy in the presence of 98% soil load as opposed to 5% which is required by the EPA. This higher soil load represents real world conditions. Beyond fungicidal kill claims, other claims that you might require involve infectious pathogens like MRSA, E-coli, HIV, Salmonella and Avian Influenza. You may also want to look for a product that can be used on both porous and non-porous surfaces and has disinfectant and sanitizing claims.

Understand what the active ingredients are in your disinfectant
It is essential to know what type of disinfectant is appropriate. Most common disinfectants are formulated using Alcohol, Phenol, Chlorine or a Quaternary Amine Base. There are arguments for each type of disinfectant and it is important to know the facts about the products you are working with. Each has advantages, but some have dramatic disadvantages that might make you think twice about using them.

Quaternary Ammonium Chloride (Quats) –
Examples Shockwave Disinfectant/Sanitizer, IAQ 2000/2500
Quats are often considered easier to use and safer than other disinfectant bases because they are less corrosive, non-carcinogenic and maintain efficacy for extended periods of time. Not all quat based disinfectants are equal though. There are a variety of products with EPA registered kill claims ranging from just a few all the way to over 130. In a healthcare environment it is important to seek out the latter, as the spectrum of microbes likely encountered in a hospital will be much broader than in common remediation situations. Unlike many other disinfectants quats based disinfectants are excellent cleaners making them ideal for surfaces with a large amount of biomaterial like fungi, blood or human waste. As many MDROs like C-DIFF, MRSA and VRE are transmitted by contaminated bodily fluids and waste this is an important factor in the equation to finding the ideal disinfectant for healthcare environments. Quats are highly stable and maintain efficacy even in the presences of high soil load. This makes them ideal for mold remediation as well as blood or bodily fluid spills.

Many IEPs as well as ICPs prefer the use of a quats because they not only offer a broad spectrum of kill claims, but are easy to work with and more cost effective than other options. In addition most quats do not have the drawbacks associated with chlorine, alcohol or phenol based products on the market.

Alcohol
While not as user friendly as quats, alcohol based disinfectants are considered by many to be easier to use than chlorine or phenol based products. High concentration alcohol based disinfectants can however be dangerous in a healthcare environment because of its tendency to open pores and dry skin. This can create openings for microbes to enter the body if not properly protected.

Though high concentration alcohol based disinfectants are generally highly effective against lipophilic viruses they are less active against non-lipid viruses and ineffective against bacterial spores. Generally alcohol disinfectants are not used for equipment immersion due to diminishing efficacy as the alcohol volatilizes. Alcohol disinfectants cannot be used as cleaners thus making them less effective for practical use on many surfaces. Even though some Alcohol based disinfectants can offer a broad spectrum of kill claims, it can be difficult to maintain appropriate wet contact time due to the rapid evaporation rate.

Chlorine
These corrosive oxidizers are known for cidal action against a wide variety of gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria as well as many viruses. Difficult to work with, these disinfectants are rapidly neutralized in the presence of organic matter making them less than ideal for healthcare and remediation environments.

While chlorine disinfectants are currently used in many facilities, future use of halogens is expected to decline as options like quats and alcohols become more abundant with appropriate kill claims. Sodium hypochlorite is known for causing significant corrosion to metals and other common materials. Chlorine disinfectants are considered toxic, and in 1994 the Clinton Administration called for the ban of all chlorine and chlorine based products.

Phenol
Phenol is one of the oldest known disinfectants still in use today and is both commercially manufactured and naturally occurring. Phenols are often effective for use on vegetative bacterial, lipid containing viruses and Mycobacterium tuberculosis but have limited or no efficacy for use against spores or non-lipid viruses. While these disinfectants are effective over a relatively large PH range, their limited solubility makes product residue difficult to clean. These disinfectants cannot be used on food contact surfaces and often require additional PPE like goggles, face shields gloves and protective clothing for application. Phenols cannot be used in many parts of a healthcare facility like neonatal, pediatric ICU or any infant contact surface due to toxic residue. Reports of eye irritation, contact dermatitis/utricaria, and depigmentation of the skin have been tied to phenol and phenol residue contact.

Phenols are commonly found in a host of consumer products and are not dangerous in very low concentrations. Disinfectant strength phenols however are considered a health risk by EPA and NIOSH. OSHA recommendations state that employee exposure to phenol in the work place should be controlled to less than 20 mg/cu m in air determined as a time-weighted average (TWA) concentration for up to a 10 hour work day or 40 hour work week. The NIOSH guidelines also limit exposure to phenols to 60 mg phenol/cu m of air as a ceiling concentration for any 15 minute period. Phenols generally enter the blood stream via ingestion, respiration or skin contact. NIOSH recommendations are just one indicator of the need for PPE when using Phenolic disinfectants. Disinfectants with a concentration of 1% phenol or greater are considered an extreme skin and inhalation hazard and are moderately combustible.

Containment plays a key roll in infection prevention.
While disinfection of surfaces, equipment and touch points plays one of the most critical roles for infection control in a health care facility; another primary responsibility of the IEP working in a healthcare facility is containment. The containment of harmful pathogens and particulate during work in a healthcare facility is essential, especially when working in areas near immunocompromised patients.

Regulations set by CDC & Joint Commission are clear in dictating specific criteria for the elimination of airborne Aspergillus, asbestos and dust. A term that IEPs will hear all to frequently as they make their transition into a healthcare environment is ICRA or infection control risk assessment. These operating guidelines are critical to any maintenance work done in a healthcare facility. APIC has developed guidelines assisting healthcare facilities in developing their ICRA to specifically mandate that dust and airborne particulate must be contained under negative pressure in Kontrol Kube like containment or by using other solid barrier methods.
.

For many years hospitals were forced to either temporarily close an entire wing or build temporary solid barriers during mold remediation or asbestos abatement jobs to prevent airborne particulate from escaping the work area. In recent years a new method of mobile containment has been made available making daily remediation, repair and renovation faster and far more cost effective. Kontrol Kube type containment essentially revolutionized the way hospital maintenance was being done by allowing an IEP to quickly roll tools, ladders, chemicals and other equipment into a location and then isolate that area for the duration of the work.

Infection control professionals prefer contractors to use methods like portable containment when possible for several reasons. Mobile containment units are easy to set up and inspect, this not only makes use of the unit easier for the IEP but also makes the inspection process much faster and efficient for the ICP. Knowing that all materials are fire rated and meet NFPA 701 is also important with any sort of temporary barrier material you use. Fire codes and standards are extremely critical in healthcare situations and are a focal point during Joint Commission inspections.

When selecting a mobile containment unit be sure to consider if the unit is made of durable components that will hold up under rigorous daily use. It is also important to know that the unit is easily cleaned and is capable of providing all the functionality needed. Will the unit accommodate an eight foot ladder effectively? Does the unit have a solid yet mobile working platform? Is it highly adjustable, durable and lightweight?

Disinfectants and Kontrol Kube type containment are used in almost every type of daily work an IEP might encounter in a healthcare facility; both are key components to any comprehensive infection control plan. For the individual contractor working in a healthcare facility, understanding what is expected of you could make all the difference between winning a bid and being passed over. The knowledge and expertise shown while in the facility can also ensure future jobs in that facility.

As IEPs progress into the healthcare arena to reap the benefits of this relatively protected market they are not only assuming the role of IAQ professional; they are also assuming the role of infection control professional helping to maintain safe, clean and infection free environments. While the challenges they face are unique and in some cases daunting, the benefits exceed a simple increase in business. When we stop to consider the impact of the work they do in the facilities that care for our sick, our elderly and our very young we can see how each of us does our part to win the battle against infection and disease. With proper education and training, IEPs can make the leap from the private or public sector into the highly lucrative and relatively stable market of healthcare remediation, abatement and repair with ease. Knowing the facts about not only the rules and regulations in healthcare facilities, but also the tools available can help ensure a successful transition into IAQ in healthcare environments.

Healthcare Staffing Business Opportunity: Niche Or Breakout Business?

Posted by dayat on in Uncategorized

Have you ever wondered how hospitals staff their facilities? Of course you haven’t. Hospitals have a human resource department that screens, qualifies and hires healthcare professionals that fit the facilities needs right? Well sort of. In reality most healthcare facilities are staffed using nursing registries or healthcare staffing companies. You’ve probably never heard of a healthcare staffing agency (also called a medical staffing company) but these companies provide a great service to hospitals and other acute care facilities. Staffing companies help save hospitals time and money by screening, qualifying, and paying healthcare professionals.

Often when people learn about what a healthcare staffing company does, they react by saying “wow I’ve never heard of that before. What a great niche.” However, recent events beg the question, is this really a niche business or could medical staffing be the quiet gorilla in the room of the growing healthcare industry? Obama’s healthcare reform and the aging population will drive up demand for healthcare in the United States. A core realization of an increase in demand for healthcare is the need for more healthcare professionals. However, while we are seeing the potential for large demand for nurses, nursing assistants, and allied healthcare workers, we are not seeing enough growth in these employment sectors to keep up with demand. This point bring us back to the question; is healthcare staffing a niche business or a business on the verge of breaking out into something bigger than its 8.8 billion dollar size already entails?

The answer to this question is yes. Healthcare staffing represents a great business opportunity in the growing healthcare industry. Hospitals and other care facilities will turn to staffing companies and nursing agencies as the hospitals become swamped with people taking advantage of the healthcare reform and our older population who will require more hospital visits. The demand for medical staffing will only increase as the demand for healthcare increases. Medical Staffing represents a business that is poised to become huge.

You may be wondering, “How can I take advantage of the potential in the medical staffing industry?” Healthcare staffing offers many job opportunities to people without a healthcare background. You could become a recruiter and enjoy your day recruiting and finding qualified nurses to work as your agency’s healthcare work force or you could enjoy the fast paced work of a staffer who quickly matches a hospitals needs with a qualified healthcare professional. However the great thing about this business is that with the proper training and support, most people can run their own healthcare staffing office.

A great way to get the proper training and to have the support for all the questions and concerns you may have from running your own business is to buy a healthcare staffing franchise. There are many healthcare franchises out there but only a few medical staffing franchises offer the proper training and support you need. Find a franchise opportunity whose training staff is approachable and has experience in the medical staffing industry. These veterans have experienced it all and will be able to guide you through owning your own franchise.

Healthcare Staffing is already a big industry. However, the room to grow is enormous. This business is no longer a small niche. It really is a breakout business teaming with opportunity. If you do your research you will find that healthcare staffing is the fast paced, interesting business with amazing potential that you may never even have heard of.