#Medical Billing Services provider in North Carolina

[reasonsforhope]

The loss of life and impact on the communities in Helene’s path is unfathomable — and both the immediate and long-term needs are vast. 

If you’re reading this, it’s likely because you want to help and care about making a difference for those who’ve been impacted by Hurricane Helene.

You’re in the right place. When we see tragedy like this happen in the news, it’s important to not tune it out. Instead, pay attention and truly feel the heartbreak of it — t​​hen, look for and be inspired by the people stepping in to help, and use that energy to make a difference ourselves.

Looking for the helpers

Instead of turning away from tragic events like the devastation from Hurricane Helene — we look closer for people stepping in using what they have, where they are, to make a difference for others.

Inspired by Mister Rogers’ famous quote, we call them the “helpers,” — and they’re usually found wherever there’s bad news in the world. Hurricane Helene is no different. Here are some people, businesses, and organizations helping right now:

Chef José Andrés and ​World Central Kitchen teams are serving thousands of meals to communities in need — from Mexico, and the Big Bend of Florida, and into Appalachia.

Volunteer pilots with the Port City Aviators Flying Club are flying supplies to storm victims in western North Carolina.

The national Disaster Distress Helpline is providing free multilingual crisis counseling to those in need.

Southern Smoke Foundation, an organization that supports food & beverage workers in crisis, is providing financial support for groceries, medical bills, lost wages, and more.

Volunteers with veteran-led disaster response organization Team Rubicon are on the ground in Greenwood, South Carolina clearing roads of trees and debris.

A local library branch in Asheville, North Carolina served as a hub for community members in need of internet service.

Workers at Waffle House were “unlikely heroes” providing food to people in need.

A local Fox News correspondent stopped his live broadcast to help rescue a woman trapped in her car in rising floodwaters.

Emergency response teams rescued more than 50 staff, patients, and caregivers from the roof of a hospital in Erwin, Tennessee.

The SPCA of Brevard rescued 20 animals from Hurricane Helene’s path — and it’s now helping them get adopted.

‍

How to make a difference

After we’ve allowed ourselves to feel the weight of the pain and heartbreak associated with bad news, and look for hope and helpers in the midst of it — we always have the opportunity to join in and make a difference, too. 

Here are some ways to help — whether you’re local or far away:

Donate to national organizations 

Here are just a few large-scale organizations that have helpers on the ground in the region.

American Red Cross

World Central Kitchen

Feeding America

United Way

Salvation Army

CARE

Donate to local organizations

Local organizations, recovery funds, and mutual aid groups have been deployed across the states impacted by Helene. Find donation links and updates below:

All States:

GoFundMe Hub for Hurricane Helene Relief

Mutual Aid Disaster Relief

Southeast Climate & Energy Network

Convoy of Hope

Appalachia Funders Network

Americares

Organizing Resilience

The National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster

Tennessee:

East Tennessee Foundation

First Aid Collective Knoxville

RISE Erwin

Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee

North Carolina:

North Carolina Community Foundation

Hearts With Hands

Manna Foodbank

BeLoved Asheville

Foothills Food Hub

Haywood Christian Ministry

Samaritan’s Purse

Forsyth Humane Society

Hope Mill

‍

Volunteer locally

Organizations in the affected area are seeking volunteers to help distribute resources and support crucial aid efforts. While many of us are not local to the region, those who are nearby are encouraged to join in a myriad of volunteer opportunities.

(Note: If you aren't in the area, the best way you can help is by supporting local efforts with a donation. Keeping roads clear for rescue crews and local relief agents is vital in maintaining safety in these already devastated regions).

For local volunteers, check out:

World Central Kitchen

Operation BBQ Relief

Marco Patriots

Operation Airdrop

Baptists on Mission

‍

Contact your elected officials and ask them to take climate action

Climate scientists agree, the intensity and extent of the devastation brought by Hurricane Helene was made worse by climate change. 

While we can’t go back in time and burn less fossil fuels — we can make a difference now to secure a safer future and prevent future climate disasters. 

In addition to talking about how this disaster is connected to climate change in our own conversations and holding media outlets accountable for how they talk about climate change — this is a great time to tell your elected officials that you want them to take meaningful climate action.

We’re making incredible progress in the U.S. and globally in reducing emissions, but we need to work even faster — and incorporate climate mitigation efforts into our plans — to limit the most severe impacts of global warming.

[dreaminginthedeepsouth]

I asked chatgbt to make an image of Florida running out of homeowners insurance and flooded by a hurricane.

* * * *

LETTERS FROM AN AMERICAN

September 27, 2024

Heather Cox Richardson

Sep 28, 2024

Last night, at about 11:10 local time, Hurricane Helene made landfall in the Big Bend area of Florida, where the state’s panhandle curves down toward the peninsula. It was classified as a Category 4 storm when it hit, bringing winds of 140 miles per hour (225 km per hour). The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane wind scale, developed in 1971 by civil engineer Herbert Saffir and meteorologist Robert Simpson, divides storms according to sustained wind intensity in an attempt to explain storms on a scale similar to the Richter scale for earthquakes. 

The Saffir-Simpson scale defines a Category 4 hurricane as one that brings catastrophic damage. According to the National Weather Service, which was established in 1870 to give notice of “the approach and force of storms,” and is now part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), a Category 4 hurricane has winds of 134–156 miles (209–251 km) per hour. “Well-built framed homes can sustain severe damage with loss of most of the roof structure and/or some exterior walls. Most trees will be snapped or uprooted and power poles downed. Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas. Power outages will last weeks to possibly months. Most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months.” 

Hurricane Helene hit with a 15-foot (4.6 meter) storm surge and left a path of destruction across Florida before moving up into Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and Kentucky with torrential rain, flash floods, high winds, and tornadoes. A record level of more than eleven inches of rain fell in Atlanta, Georgia. At least 45 people have died in the path of the storm, and more than 4.5 million homes and businesses across ten states are without power. The roads in western North Carolina are closed. Moody’s Analytics said it expects the storm to leave $15 to $26 billion in property damage.

Officials from NOAA, the scientific and regulatory agency that forecasts weather and monitors conditions in the oceans and skies, predict that record-warm ocean temperatures this year will produce more storms than usual. NOAA hurricane scientist Jeff Masters noted that Helene’s landfall “gives the U.S. a record eight Cat 4 or Cat 5 Atlantic hurricane landfalls in the past eight years (2017–2024), seven of them being continental U.S. landfalls. That’s as many Cat 4 and 5 landfalls as occurred in the prior 57 years.”

President Joe Biden approved emergency declarations for Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina before Helene made landfall. Tennessee governor Bill Lee, a Republican, did not ask for such a declaration until this evening, instead proclaiming September 27 a “voluntary Day of Prayer and Fasting.” Observers pointed out that with people stuck on a hospital roof in the midst of catastrophic flooding in his state, maybe an emergency declaration would be more on point. 

After a state or a tribal government asks for federal help, an emergency declaration enables the federal government to provide funds to supplement local and state emergency efforts, as well as to deploy the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help save lives, protect property, and protect health and safety. Before Helene made landfall, the federal government placed personnel and resources across the region, ready to help with search and rescue, restore power, and provide food and water and emergency generators. 

The federal government sent 1,500 federal personnel to the region, as well as about 8,000 members of the U.S. Coast Guard and teams from the Army Corps of Engineers to provide emergency power. It provided two health and medical task forces to help local hospitals and critical care facilities, and sent in more than 2.7 million meals, 1.6 million liters of water, 50,000 tarps, 10,000 cots, 20,000 blankets, 70,000 gallons of diesel fuel, and 40,000 gallons of gasoline to provide supplies for those hit by the catastrophe. 

FEMA was created in 1979 after the National Governors Association asked President Jimmy Carter to centralize federal emergency management functions. That centralization recognized the need for coordination as people across the country responded to a disaster in any one part of it. When a devastating fire ripped through Portsmouth, New Hampshire, the day after Christmas in 1802, Congress agreed to send aid to the town, but volunteers organized by local and state governments and funded by wealthy community members provided most of the response and recovery efforts for the many disasters of the 1800s. 

When a deadly hurricane wiped out Galveston, Texas, in 1900, killing at least 6,000 residents and destroying most of the city’s buildings, the inept machine government proved unable to manage the donations pouring in from across the country to help survivors. Six years later, when an earthquake badly damaged San Francisco and ensuing fires from broken gas lines engulfed the city in flames, the interim fire chief—who took over when the fire chief was gravely injured—called in federal troops to patrol the streets and guard buildings. More than 4,000 Army troops also fed, sheltered, and clothed displaced city residents. 

When the Mississippi River flooded in 1927, sending up to 30 feet (9 meters) of  water across ten states, including Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana, killing about 500 people and displacing hundreds of thousands more, President Calvin Coolidge appointed Commerce Secretary Herbert Hoover to coordinate the federal disaster response and pull together the many private-sector interests eager to help out under federal organization. This marked the first time the federal government took charge after a disaster. 

In 1950, Congress authorized federal response to disasters when it passed the Federal Disaster Assistance Program. In response to the many disasters of the 1960s—the 1964 Alaska Earthquake, Hurricane Betsy in 1965, and Hurricane Camille in 1969—the Department of Housing and Urban Development established a way to provide housing for disaster survivors. Congress provided guaranteed flood insurance to homeowners, and in 1970 it also authorized federal loans and federal funding for those affected by disasters. 

When he signed the Disaster Relief Act of 1970, Republican president Richard Nixon said: “I am pleased with this bill which responds to a vital need of the American people. The bill demonstrates that the Federal Government in cooperation with State and local authorities is capable of providing compassionate assistance to the innocent victims of natural disasters.”

Four years later, Congress established the process for a presidential disaster declaration. By then, more than 100 different federal departments and agencies had a role in responding to disasters, and the attempts of state, tribal, and local governments to interface with them created confusion. So the National Governors Association asked President Carter to streamline the process. In Executive Order 12127 he brought order to the system with the creation of FEMA.

In 2003, after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the U.S., the George W. Bush administration brought FEMA into its newly-created Department of Homeland Security, along with 21 other agencies, wrapping natural disasters together with terrorist attacks as matters of national security. After 2005’s Hurricane Katrina required the largest disaster response in U.S. history, FEMA’s inadequate response prompted a 2006 reform act that distinguished responding to natural disasters from responding to terrorist attacks. In 2018, another reform focused on funding for disaster mitigation before the crisis hits.  

The federal government’s efficient organization of responses to natural disasters illustrates that as citizens of a republic, we are part of a larger community that responds to our needs in times of crisis.

But that system is currently under attack. Project 2025, a playbook for the next Republican administration, authored by allies of the right-wing Heritage Foundation and closely associated with Republican presidential candidate Trump and vice presidential candidate Ohio senator J.D. Vance, calls for slashing FEMA’s budget and returning disaster responses to states and localities. 

Project 2025 also calls for dismantling the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration and either eliminating its functions, sending them to other agencies, privatizing them, or putting them under the control of states and territories. It complains that NOAA, whose duties include issuing hurricane warnings, is “one of the main drivers of the climate change alarm industry and, as such, is harmful to future U.S. prosperity.” 

LETTERS FROM AN AMERICAN

HEATHER COX RICHARDSON

[voskhozhdeniye]

An Idaho hospital will stop labor and delivery services, citing doctor shortages and the "political climate," the hospital announced Friday. 

"Highly respected, talented physicians are leaving. Recruiting replacements will be extraordinarily difficult," Bonner General Health, located in the city of Sandpoint, said in a news release.

Pregnant women who utilized Bonner General, a 25-bed hospital, will now have to drive to hospitals or birthing centers in Coeur d'Alene or Spokane to give birth. 

In 2022, doctors delivered 265 babies at Bonner General and admitted less than 10 pediatric patients, the hospital said.

In the wake of the Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v. Wade, abortion bans have added another challenge to rural hospitals that have struggled to keep their doors open and their facilities fully staffed and running. 

Nationwide, hospitals have been sounding the alarm that states with strict abortion laws risk losing staff or doctors to other regions. According to the Associated Press, in Indiana, one of the first states to restrict abortion following the Supreme Court's decision, the Indiana Hospital Association said the state is "creating an atmosphere that will be perceived as antagonistic to physicians." 

Idaho has one of the most restrictive abortion bans in the country. According to the Associated Press, in a court brief filed in August 2022 in support of a Justice Department lawsuit against the Idaho abortion ban, medical groups argued that Idaho physicians are forced to choose whether to break state or federal law. 

In a report last September, Pew found that Idaho was one of six states in which authorities can prosecute health care providers for performing abortions.  

"The Idaho Legislature continues to introduce and pass bills that criminalize physicians for medical care nationally recognized as the standard of care. Consequences for Idaho Physicians providing the standard of care may include civil litigation and criminal prosecution, leading to jail time or fines," Bonner General said in its news statement.

Requests for further comment from CBS News to the hospital were not returned Saturday. 

In addition to Idaho's legal and political climate, Bonner General also cited " the emotional and difficult decision" to stop labor and delivery services because of staffing shortages and changing demographics. 

Since 2005, at least 190 rural hospitals have closed or converted their operations, according to numbers compiled by the Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research at the University of North Carolina. 

"We have made every effort to avoid eliminating these services," said Ford Elsaesser, Bonner General Health's Board President, in a statement. "We hoped to be the exception, but our challenges are impossible to overcome now."

Often residents in rural areas are left to drive hundreds of miles to access healthcare. In 2019, Pew Research published a study showing that rural Americans live an average of 10.5 miles from the nearest hospital, compared with 5.6 miles for people in suburban areas, and 4.4 miles for those in urban areas.

[theyoungturks]

NPR released a devastating report about how hospital credit cards are skyrocketing healthcare debt. Ana Kasparian and Cenk Uygur discuss on The Young Turks. Watch TYT LIVE on weekdays 6-8 pm ET. http://youtube.com/theyoungturks/live Read more HERE: https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2022/11/17/1136201685/medical-debt-high-interest-credit-cards-hospitals-profit "Patients at North Carolina-based Atrium Health get what looks like an enticing pitch when they go to the nonprofit hospital system's website: a payment plan from lender AccessOne. The plans offer "easy ways to make monthly payments" on medical bills, the website says. You don't need good credit to get a loan. Everyone is approved. Nothing is reported to credit agencies. In Minnesota, Allina Health encourages its patients to sign up for an account with MedCredit Financial Services to "consolidate your health expenses." In Southern California, Chino Valley Medical Center, part of the Prime Healthcare chain, touts "promotional financing options with the CareCredit credit card to help you get the care you need, when you need it." As Americans are overwhelmed with medical bills, patient financing is now a multibillion-dollar business, with private equity and big banks lined up to cash in when patients and their families can't pay for care. By one estimate from research firm IBISWorld, profit margins top 29% in the patient financing industry, seven times what is considered a solid hospital margin." *** The largest online progressive news show in the world. Hosted by Cenk Uygur and Ana Kasparian. LIVE weekdays 6-8 pm ET. Help support our mission and get perks. Membership protects TYT's independence from corporate ownership and allows us to provide free live shows that speak truth to power for people around the world. See Perks: ▶ https://www.youtube.com/TheYoungTurks/join SUBSCRIBE on YOUTUBE: ☞ http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=theyoungturks FACEBOOK: ☞ http://www.facebook.com/TheYoungTurks TWITTER: ☞ http://www.twitter.com/TheYoungTurks INSTAGRAM: ☞ http://www.instagram.com/TheYoungTurks TWITCH: ☞ http://www.twitch.com/tyt 👕 Merch: http://shoptyt.com ❤ Donate: http://www.tyt.com/go 🔗 Website: https://www.tyt.com 📱App: http://www.tyt.com/app 📬 Newsletters: https://www.tyt.com/newsletters/ If you want to watch more videos from TYT, consider subscribing to other channels in our network: The Watchlist https://www.youtube.com/watchlisttyt Indisputable with Dr. Rashad Richey https://www.youtube.com/indisputabletyt Unbossed with Nina Turner https://www.youtube.com/unbossedtyt The Damage Report ▶ https://www.youtube.com/thedamagereport TYT Sports ▶ https://www.youtube.com/tytsports The Conversation ▶ https://www.youtube.com/tytconversation Rebel HQ ▶ https://www.youtube.com/rebelhq TYT Investigates ▶ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwNJt9PYyN1uyw2XhNIQMMA #TYT #TheYoungTurks #BreakingNews 221117__TA05_Patient_Financing_Exploits by The Young Turks

[craigprestoninsurancenc]

Top Benefits of Auto Insurance in Concord and Charlotte, North Carolina

Auto insurance is essential for drivers in Concord and Charlotte, North Carolina. It provides financial protection, legal compliance, and peace of mind against unexpected events. With congested streets and highways connecting two vibrant cities, the significance of auto insurance must be considered. The benefits go beyond basic coverage; they ensure drivers are prepared for many road risks.

One primary advantage of auto insurance in Concord and Charlotte, North Carolina, is a financial defense against accidents. Even a minor accident can result in legal expenses, medical bills, and costly repairs. By paying for these costs, auto insurance helps drivers involved in accidents reduce their financial load. Not prevalent in the Carolinas, comprehensive collision coverage options provide even more protection by covering damages to vehicles resulting from vandalism, theft, or weather-related disasters.

Another great benefit of automobile insurance is its ability to ensure legal compliance. Drivers in North Carolina are required to carry at least basic liability insurance, which covers both physical injury to others and property damage. Following state guidelines, Concord and Charlotte drivers maintain the required coverage, avoiding fines, penalties, and sometimes license suspensions. This liability coverage ensures compensation for accident victims' losses beyond legal compliance.

The densely populated regions of Charlotte and Concord have traffic that increases accident risk. Auto insurance with uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage offers protection when an at-fault driver has inadequate insurance. This provides a safety net by ensuring drivers do not incur out-of-pocket costs due to someone else's lack of coverage in challenging conditions.

Medical payment coverage is also another huge advantage of automobile insurance. Whichever person is responsible, this benefit covers passenger and driver medical costs. While quick medical aid in the case of an accident might result in significant expenses, having this coverage ensures effective control of these expenditures, enabling those affected to focus on recovery.

Motor insurance also covers roadside assistance, which is quite helpful for drivers in Concord and Charlotte. In an emergency, drivers may find great use for services such as towing, fuel delivery, or lockout assistance. These additional features assist in unexpected circumstances, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Families and individuals traveling between Concord and Charlotte may benefit from having rental vehicle reimbursement coverage included in the auto insurance policy. Should an accident damage a vehicle that needs repairs, this coverage ensures the availability of a rental car, thereby minimizing disruptions to daily life.

Drivers in North Carolina who invest in automobile insurance can benefit from discounts that help make coverage more reasonably priced. There are several discounts for multi-policy bundling, strong driving records, or auto safety equipment installation. These low-cost options help one obtain complete security without sacrificing financial limits.

The most significant advantage of automobile insurance is peace of mind. By minimizing financial and legal issues, drivers can concentrate on their trips and enjoy the freedom of the road. This sense of security is invaluable for Concord and Charlotte homeowners negotiating suburban houses, congested city streets, and nearby highways.

Auto insurance is an essential tool for safeguarding life, money, and vehicles—more than just a legal obligation. In areas like Concord and Charlotte, where traffic congestion and accident probability are higher, having the necessary coverage ensures drivers' preparedness for the unexpected. With its all-encompassing safety and bonuses, auto insurance is a must-have buy for drivers in these vibrant North Carolina cities.

Like car insurance, life insurance is essential in Charlotte and Matthews, North Carolina. With suitable life insurance, one can ensure the financial protection of one's family even after one's unfortunate death.

[prospabilling]

Had enough of billing frustrations cutting into profits? Best Billing Outsourcing Company in North Carolina handles all dental, medical and specialty coding, claims and payment processing. Our certified team boosts reimbursements through accurate billing the first time, every time. As the top provider in NC, we simplify compliance so you can focus on patients. Outsource all your billing and watch revenue and satisfaction increase - call us today!

For more- https://www.prospabilling.com

Office Address - Connecticut 7 McKee Place Cheshire, CT 06410

[elitebenefitsgroup]

How to Choose the Perfect Individual Health Insurance Plan

Understand Your Health Needs

Your first step in selecting individual health insurance North Carolina is to get a clear understanding of your personal health needs. Do you visit the doctor often? Are you managing a chronic condition that requires regular medication? Or are you generally healthy and want basic coverage for emergencies?

For those who need more frequent care, it’s smart to choose a plan with a lower deductible but higher premiums. This means your out-of-pocket costs when you visit doctors or specialists will be lower. On the other hand, if you’re in good health, a high-deductible plan with lower monthly premiums may make more sense. Realizing your health needs will help you find a plan that aligns with your lifestyle and budget.

Compare Costs

The cost of an individual health insurance plan goes beyond just your monthly premium. Be sure to consider these factors when comparing plans:

· Deductibles: A plan with a higher deductible might have lower premiums, but you’ll need to pay more upfront when you require care.

· Copayments and Coinsurance: These are your costs for medical services after you meet your deductible. For example, you may have a $30 copayment every time you visit your doctor, or your insurance may require you to pay 20% of a bill as coinsurance.

· Out-of-Pocket Maximums: This is the most you’ll pay in a year for covered services. After you reach this limit, your insurance will cover 100% of the costs for the rest of the year. If you’re concerned about potential high medical costs, selecting a plan with a lower out-of-pocket maximum might be a good idea.

Look at the Provider Network

Not all plans cover all doctors. This is especially important if you already have a preferred doctor or specialist. Before signing up for a plan, check the provider network to ensure your preferred healthcare providers are included. If you choose a plan that doesn’t include your doctor, you may pay more for out-of-network care or may need to switch to a new provider.

Finding the Perfect Fit

Choosing the right health insurance plan is a personal decision that depends on your health needs, budget, and preferences for care. Take the time to compare different plans, consider your health situation, and factor in the costs associated with each option. By doing so, you’ll be well on your way to securing the coverage that’s perfect for your life. After all, peace of mind is priceless when it comes to your health!

[yourreddancer]

Heather Cox Richardson

HEATHER COX RICHARDSON 9.27

Last night, at about 11:10 local time, Hurricane Helene made landfall in the Big Bend area of Florida, where the state’s panhandle curves down toward the peninsula. It was classified as a Category 4 storm when it hit, bringing winds of 140 miles per hour (225 km per hour). The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane wind scale, developed in 1971 by civil engineer Herbert Saffir and meteorologist Robert Simpson, divides storms according to sustained wind intensity in an attempt to explain storms on a scale similar to the Richter scale for earthquakes. 

The Saffir-Simpson scale defines a Category 4 hurricane as one that brings catastrophic damage. According to the National Weather Service, which was established in 1870 to give notice of “the approach and force of storms,” and is now part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), a Category 4 hurricane has winds of 134–156 miles (209–251 km) per hour. “Well-built framed homes can sustain severe damage with loss of most of the roof structure and/or some exterior walls. Most trees will be snapped or uprooted and power poles downed. Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas. Power outages will last weeks to possibly months. Most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months.” 

Hurricane Helene hit with a 15-foot (4.6 meter) storm surge and left a path of destruction across Florida before moving up into Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and Kentucky with torrential rain, flash floods, high winds, and tornadoes. A record level of more than eleven inches of rain fell in Atlanta, Georgia. At least 45 people have died in the path of the storm, and more than 4.5 million homes and businesses across ten states are without power. The roads in western North Carolina are closed. Moody’s Analytics said it expects the storm to leave $15 to $26 billion in property damage.

Officials from NOAA, the scientific and regulatory agency that forecasts weather and monitors conditions in the oceans and skies, predict that record-warm ocean temperatures this year will produce more storms than usual. NOAA hurricane scientist Jeff Masters noted that Helene’s landfall “gives the U.S. a record eight Cat 4 or Cat 5 Atlantic hurricane landfalls in the past eight years (2017–2024), seven of them being continental U.S. landfalls. That’s as many Cat 4 and 5 landfalls as occurred in the prior 57 years.”

President Joe Biden approved emergency declarations for Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina before Helene made landfall. Tennessee governor Bill Lee, a Republican, did not ask for such a declaration until this evening, instead proclaiming September 27 a “voluntary Day of Prayer and Fasting.” Observers pointed out that with people stuck on a hospital roof in the midst of catastrophic flooding in his state, maybe an emergency declaration would be more on point. 

After a state or a tribal government asks for federal help, an emergency declaration enables the federal government to provide funds to supplement local and state emergency efforts, as well as to deploy the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help save lives, protect property, and protect health and safety. Before Helene made landfall, the federal government placed personnel and resources across the region, ready to help with search and rescue, restore power, and provide food and water and emergency generators. 

The federal government sent 1,500 federal personnel to the region, as well as about 8,000 members of the U.S. Coast Guard and teams from the Army Corps of Engineers to provide emergency power. It provided two health and medical task forces to help local hospitals and critical care facilities, and sent in more than 2.7 million meals, 1.6 million liters of water, 50,000 tarps, 10,000 cots, 20,000 blankets, 70,000 gallons of diesel fuel, and 40,000 gallons of gasoline to provide supplies for those hit by the catastrophe. 

FEMA was created in 1979 after the National Governors Association asked President Jimmy Carter to centralize federal emergency management functions. That centralization recognized the need for coordination as people across the country responded to a disaster in any one part of it. When a devastating fire ripped through Portsmouth, New Hampshire, the day after Christmas in 1802, Congress agreed to send aid to the town, but volunteers organized by local and state governments and funded by wealthy community members provided most of the response and recovery efforts for the many disasters of the 1900s. 

When a deadly hurricane wiped out Galveston, Texas, in 1900, killing at least 6,000 residents and destroying most of the city’s buildings, the inept machine government proved unable to manage the donations pouring in from across the country to help survivors. Six years later, when an earthquake badly damaged San Francisco and ensuing fires from broken gas lines engulfed the city in flames, the interim fire chief—who took over when the fire chief was gravely injured—called in federal troops to patrol the streets and guard buildings. More than 4,000 Army troops also fed, sheltered, and clothed displaced city residents. 

When the Mississippi River flooded in 1927, sending up to 30 feet (9 meters) of  water across ten states, including Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana, killing about 500 people and displacing hundreds of thousands more, President Calvin Coolidge appointed Commerce Secretary Herbert Hoover to coordinate the federal disaster response and pull together the many private-sector interests eager to help out under federal organization. This marked the first time the federal government took charge after a disaster. 

In 1950, Congress authorized federal response to disasters when it passed the Federal Disaster Assistance Program. In response to the many disasters of the 1960s—the 1964 Alaska Earthquake, Hurricane Betsy in 1965, and Hurricane Camille in 1969—the Department of Housing and Urban Development established a way to provide housing for disaster survivors. Congress provided guaranteed flood insurance to homeowners, and in 1970 it also authorized federal loans and federal funding for those affected by disasters. 

When he signed the Disaster Relief Act of 1970, Republican president Richard Nixon said: “I am pleased with this bill which responds to a vital need of the American people. The bill demonstrates that the Federal Government in cooperation with State and local authorities is capable of providing compassionate assistance to the innocent victims of natural disasters.”

Four years later, Congress established the process for a presidential disaster declaration. By then, more than 100 different federal departments and agencies had a role in responding to disasters, and the attempts of state, tribal, and local governments to interface with them created confusion. So the National Governors Association asked President Carter to streamline the process. In Executive Order 12127 he brought order to the system with the creation of FEMA.

In 2003, after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the U.S., the George W. Bush administration brought FEMA into its newly-created Department of Homeland Security, along with 21 other agencies, wrapping natural disasters together with terrorist attacks as matters of national security. After 2005’s Hurricane Katrina required the largest disaster response in U.S. history, FEMA’s inadequate response prompted a 2006 reform act that distinguished responding to natural disasters from responding to terrorist attacks. In 2018, another reform focused on funding for disaster mitigation before the crisis hits.  

The federal government’s efficient organization of responses to natural disasters illustrates that as citizens of a republic, we are part of a larger community that responds to our needs in times of crisis.

But that system is currently under attack. Project 2025, a playbook for the next Republican administration, authored by allies of the right-wing Heritage Foundation and closely associated with Republican presidential candidate Trump and vice presidential candidate Ohio senator J.D. Vance, calls for slashing FEMA’s budget and returning disaster responses to states and localities. 

Project 2025 also calls for dismantling the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration and either eliminating its functions, sending them to other agencies, privatizing them, or putting them under the control of states and territories. It complains that NOAA, whose duties include issuing hurricane warnings, is “one of the main drivers of the climate change alarm industry and, as such, is harmful to future U.S. prosperity.” 

[globalsourceus]

The Basics of Revenue Cycle Management

Revenue cycle management (RCM) is a comprehensive process that healthcare facilities utilize to manage the administrative and clinical functions associated with claims processing, payment, and revenue generation. The journey of a medical bill through the revenue cycle begins when a patient schedules an appointment and continues until the healthcare provider receives full payment for the services rendered. Revenue cycle medical billing is a critical aspect of this process, ensuring that healthcare providers are reimbursed for their services. Effective revenue cycle management services streamline this complex process by leveraging technology and specialized expertise to minimize errors and delays. Key components of RCM include patient registration, insurance verification, charge capture, coding, claims submission, payment posting, and patient collections. The goal is to ensure that every step is completed accurately and efficiently, reducing the time it takes for a healthcare provider to receive payment. Understanding these basics helps healthcare facilities improve their financial health and patient satisfaction.

Connect with us

233 Clear River Pl, Cary, North Carolina 27519

+1 (214) 628 1717

info@doctorsbackoffice.com

[workforcesolution]

SAS IS GAINING PROMINENCE IN HEALTHCARE -1

SAS is gaining prominence in healthcare: -

When the transformation of healthcare into the digital era moves forward, there are resources that play a vital role in promoting the study of the production of the new wave of data. Statistical analysis systems (SAS) are one of the devices that has far-reaching benefits for the healthcare sector, from insurers to physicians and, of course, the patients themselves.

After its founding in 1976, the SAS Institute, the maker of statistical analysis systems, has evolved considerably. It started as a project to evaluate agricultural research at North Carolina State University has grown into a business and software that is used by Big Data experts from banking to pharmaceuticals to government agencies operating in every sector.

Today, SAS is moving health careanalytics to new frontiers, optimizing results across the treatment continuum, from how health care providers assess success to clinical outcomes, and patient safety. SAS also plays a role in helping to recognize disease states and define approaches to commercialize drugs, according to the institute.

SAS unleashes predictive analytical capacity: -

Health companies can develop safer, more detailed and more accurate data through SAS programs. It also offers new methods for recording and displaying data.

To physicians, the ability to assess the efficacy of treatment and to build clinical profiles are some primary advantages of SAS services, which can provide information on the practice habits of a doctor and equate them with other doctors and industry standards.

The advantages of SAS systems are immense. This provides improved cost management and revenue creation, as well as allowing patients to investigate clinical outcomes and increasing the degree of patient care.

Another cloud analytics service called Viya was launched at the SAS Institute in early 2017 with a range of analytical tools aimed directly at healthcare providers.

Previous SAS products typically allowed the user to switch from one version to the next. However, according to an article in the Healthcare IT News, Viya uses current SAS technology technologies to provide new analytical insights, tools and techniques that can be used for deployment. The platform reads pictures as a type of data.

Mark Lambrecht, SAS Health and Lifesciences Global Practice's consultant said in Healthcare IT News: "The goal is to be able to incorporate analytical processes into the environment and to give you the right response at the right time.

Who Needs SAS Knowledge?

SAS technologies are used in a number of sectors but are increasingly omnipresent in healthcare. Jobs analysing health care, pharmacy, treatment, billing and government insurance data are proliferating and increasingly needed to understand SAS programming.

The SAS skills have reached 1 position with an average pay rise of 6.1% according to a report by the Money Magazine and the Payscale.com which outlined the skills that employers found the most important in 350 branches. Data mining and modelling were both highly useful competencies, both used in SAS operations.

The demand is rising fast for SAS accredited jobseekers. According to the SAS Institute, more than 80,000 businesses use SAS software, and the number of prospective employers using their tools would undoubtedly increase.

Throughout the world the promise of health analytics is welcomed by developed nations due to the problems they face around medication costs. A by-product of health analytics is high quality, economical services, and the demand for platforms and analytical services will therefore expand on a global scale.

According to a study from TMR Research, the only barrier to growth in health analysis is privacy issues and the lack of qualified persons. The biggest challenge can be clearly finding SEA trained professionals capable of taking on the role of extracting the most from the health data on the market as there is an increasing range of roles in this health sector that require awareness of SAS systems.

About Rang Technologies: Headquartered in New Jersey, Rang Technologies has dedicated over a decade delivering innovative solutions and best talent to help businesses get the most out of the latest technologies in their digital transformation journey. Read More...

[gibbagencyinsuranceservices]

Business Insurance in Charlotte, Fort Mill, Concord, Matthews, and Gastonia, NC for Restaurant owners

Those in the restaurant business often need to be made aware that they need to sign up for business insurance in Charlotte, Fort Mill, Concord, Matthews, and Gastonia, NC. Restaurant owners in Charlotte, Fort Mill, Concord, Matthews, and Gastonia, NC, require specific insurance coverage to protect against various risks inherent in the food service industry. From property damage to liability claims, having the right insurance coverage is crucial for a restaurant business's financial health and longevity.    One essential type of insurance for restaurants is property insurance, which protects against damage to the restaurant's physical assets, such as the building, equipment, and inventory, due to events like fire, theft, or vandalism. This coverage can help restaurants recover quickly from unexpected disasters and continue operations.   Another essential coverage is general liability insurance, which protects restaurants from third-party bodily injury or property damage claims. For example, if a customer slips and falls in the restaurant or if a server accidentally spills hot coffee on a patron, general liability insurance can cover the costs associated with these incidents, including medical bills and legal fees.   Food spoilage insurance is also critical for restaurants, especially those that rely on perishable ingredients. This coverage can reimburse restaurants for spoiled food due to equipment malfunctions or power outages, helping minimize financial losses.   Liquor liability insurance is necessary for restaurants that serve alcohol. This coverage protects against claims related to alcohol-related incidents, such as fights, injuries, or property damage caused by intoxicated patrons. Without liquor liability insurance, restaurants could be liable for these incidents, leading to costly legal battles.   Workers' compensation insurance is mandatory for restaurants in North Carolina and provides coverage for employees who are injured or become ill on the job. This coverage can help pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs for injured workers, reducing the restaurant's financial burden.   In addition to these essential coverages, restaurants may also consider other types of insurance, such as business interruption insurance, which can provide financial assistance if the restaurant is forced to close temporarily due to a covered event, such as a fire or natural disaster.   Overall, having the right business insurance in Charlotte, Fort Mill, Concord, Matthews, and Gastonia, NC coverage is crucial for restaurants in Charlotte, Fort Mill, Concord, Matthews, and Gastonia, NC, to protect against various risks and ensure the long-term success of their business. By understanding their insurance needs and working with an experienced insurance agent, restaurant owners can secure the right coverage to protect their investment and focus on providing exceptional dining experiences for their customers.

[threemovercafox]

What are the key considerations and steps individuals or businesses should take when planning an international move to ensure a smooth and successful relocation?

Embarking on an international move, whether for individuals or businesses, requires careful planning and consideration of various factors to ensure a smooth and successful relocation. For seamless and reliable moving services in Fairmont, North Carolina, visit https://threemovers.com/north-carolina/fairmont/ to connect with Three Movers and experience excellence in every relocation. Here are key considerations and steps to guide you through this complex process:

Research and Compliance: Thoroughly research the regulations and compliance requirements of the destination country. Understand visa and work permit processes, import/export regulations, and any specific restrictions on items you plan to move.

Hire a Professional International Moving Company: Engage the services of a reputable international moving company with expertise in navigating the complexities of global relocations. Ensure the company is licensed, insured, and has experience with moves to your destination.

Create a Comprehensive Inventory: Develop a detailed inventory of items to be moved, including their estimated value. This inventory is crucial for customs declarations and will help you assess insurance needs.

Budgeting and Cost Analysis: Develop a comprehensive budget that includes moving costs, visa fees, potential storage fees, and other associated expenses. Consider currency exchange rates and fluctuations that may impact costs.

Packing and Documentation: Professional packing is essential for international moves. Ensure all required documentation, including passports, visas, and work permits, is in order. Keep important documents, such as medical records and academic certificates, easily accessible.

International Insurance Coverage: Secure international insurance coverage for your belongings. Verify the coverage provided by the moving company and consider additional insurance options to safeguard against potential loss or damage during transit.

Cultural Adaptation and Language: Familiarize yourself with the culture and language of the destination country. Understanding local customs and etiquette can ease the transition and facilitate a smoother integration into the new environment.

Notify Relevant Parties: Inform relevant parties about your move, including utility companies, financial institutions, and government agencies. Settle outstanding bills, cancel or transfer services, and update your contact information as necessary.

Plan for Temporary Accommodations: Consider arranging temporary accommodations upon arrival to provide flexibility as you settle into your new surroundings. This can be particularly beneficial while waiting for permanent housing arrangements.

Stay Connected: Maintain open lines of communication with your international moving company, immigration authorities, and relevant contacts in both your current and destination countries. Regular communication helps address potential issues promptly.

Crisis and Contingency Planning: Develop a crisis and contingency plan to address unexpected challenges. This could include medical emergencies, unforeseen delays, or changes in employment circumstances.

By carefully considering these key factors and taking proactive steps, individuals and businesses can pave the way for a successful international move. Planning ahead, understanding local regulations, and enlisting the support of experienced professionals contribute to a smoother transition, allowing you to embrace the opportunities and adventures that come with an international relocation.

[techblog-365]

Why SAS IS GAINING PROMINENCE IN HEALTHCARE -1

SAS is gaining prominence in healthcare: -

When the transformation of healthcare into the digital era moves forward, there are resources that play a vital role in promoting the study of the production of the new wave of data. Statistical analysis systems (SAS) are one of the devices that has far-reaching benefits for the healthcare sector, from insurers to physicians and, of course, the patients themselves.

After its founding in 1976, the SAS Institute, the maker of statistical analysis systems, has evolved considerably. It started as a project to evaluate agricultural research at North Carolina State University has grown into a business and software that is used by Big Data experts from banking to pharmaceuticals to government agencies operating in every sector.

Today, SAS is moving health care analytics to new frontiers, optimizing results across the treatment continuum, from how health care providers assess success to clinical outcomes, and patient safety. SAS also plays a role in helping to recognize disease states and define approaches to commercialize drugs, according to the institute.

SAS unleashes predictive analytical capacity: -

Health companies can develop safer, more detailed and more accurate data through SAS programs. It also offers new methods for recording and displaying data.

To physicians, the ability to assess the efficacy of treatment and to build clinical profiles are some primary advantages of SAS services, which can provide information on the practice habits of a doctor and equate them with other doctors and industry standards.

The advantages of SAS systems are immense. This provides improved cost management and revenue creation, as well as allowing patients to investigate clinical outcomes and increasing the degree of patient care.

Another cloud analytics service called Viya was launched at the SAS Institute in early 2017 with a range of analytical tools aimed directly at healthcare providers.

Previous SAS products typically allowed the user to switch from one version to the next. However, according to an article in the Healthcare IT News, Viya uses current SAS technology technologies to provide new analytical insights, tools and techniques that can be used for deployment. The platform reads pictures as a type of data.

Mark Lambrecht, SAS Health and Lifesciences Global Practice's consultant said in Healthcare IT News: "The goal is to be able to incorporate analytical processes into the environment and to give you the right response at the right time.

Who Needs SAS Knowledge?

SAS technologies are used in a number of sectors but are increasingly omnipresent in healthcare. Jobs analysing health care, pharmacy, treatment, billing and government insurance data are proliferating and increasingly needed to understand SAS programming.

The SAS skills have reached 1 position with an average pay rise of 6.1% according to a report by the Money Magazine and the Payscale.com which outlined the skills that employers found the most important in 350 branches. Data mining and modelling were both highly useful competencies, both used in SAS operations.

The demand is rising fast for SAS accredited jobseekers. According to the SAS Institute, more than 80,000 businesses use SAS software, and the number of prospective employers using their tools would undoubtedly increase.

Throughout the world the promise of health analytics is welcomed by developed nations due to the problems they face around medication costs. A by-product of health analytics is high quality, economical services, and the demand for platforms and analytical services will therefore expand on a global scale.

According to a study from TMR Research, the only barrier to growth in health analysis is privacy issues and the lack of qualified persons. The biggest challenge can be clearly finding SEA trained professionals capable of taking on the role of extracting the most from the health data on the market as there is an increasing range of roles in this health sector that require awareness of SAS systems.

About Rang Technologies: Headquartered in New Jersey, Rang Technologies has dedicated over a decade delivering innovative solutions and best talent to help businesses get the most out of the latest technologies in their digital transformation journey. Read More...

[amymedbiller]

Open Your Future: High-Demand Medical Billing And Coding Jobs in NC

**Unlock Your ⁤Future: High-Demand Medical Billing And Coding Jobs ‌in NC**

Are you looking for a stable and ​rewarding career in the healthcare industry? If so, pursuing a career in medical billing and coding in North Carolina could‍ be the‌ perfect fit for you. With the increasing demand for healthcare services, the need for ‌skilled medical billing and coding professionals ‌has ​never⁢ been​ higher. In ‍this article, we will explore the high-demand medical billing and coding jobs in NC and how you can⁢ unlock your future ⁢in this thriving field.

**Why Choose Medical Billing And Coding in NC?**

North Carolina is home to a robust healthcare industry, with a diverse range of healthcare facilities and⁣ providers. This means that there is a ​constant demand for qualified medical billing and coding professionals to help ensure accurate billing, coding, and reimbursement processes. Here are some key reasons why pursuing a career in medical billing and coding in‍ NC is⁢ a⁤ smart choice:

– **Job Stability:** The healthcare industry is always in need of medical billing and coding professionals, making it a stable and recession-proof career choice. – **Competitive Salaries:** Medical billing and‍ coding professionals in NC can earn‍ competitive salaries, with opportunities for advancement. – **Flexibility:**⁢ Many medical billing and coding jobs in NC offer flexible work ‍schedules, ⁤making it ‍an ideal career choice for those looking​ for work-life balance. – **Career Growth:** With the‌ increasing demand for healthcare services, there are ample opportunities for career growth and advancement in the field of medical billing and coding.

**High-Demand Medical Billing​ And Coding ⁢Jobs in NC**

As a medical billing and coding professional in‌ NC, you can work in various healthcare settings, ​including hospitals, physician offices, clinics,‌ and long-term care facilities. Some of the most in-demand medical‍ billing⁤ and coding jobs in NC include:

1. ⁢**Medical Coder:** Medical coders are responsible for assigning diagnostic and procedural codes to patient records for billing and reimbursement purposes. 2. **Medical Biller:**‌ Medical billers are responsible for submitting and following ​up⁤ on claims with insurance companies to ensure timely and accurate⁣ reimbursement. 3. **Revenue ‍Cycle Specialist:** Revenue cycle specialists oversee the⁤ entire billing process, from patient registration to claim submission and ⁢payment processing. 4. **Medical Records ⁢Technician:** Medical records technicians are responsible for maintaining ​and organizing patient health information in ‌electronic health records systems.

**Benefits of​ Pursuing⁣ a Career in Medical Billing And Coding​ in NC**

There are many⁢ benefits to pursuing a ‍career in ​medical billing and coding in NC, including:

– **Job Security:** The healthcare industry is always in need of skilled medical billing and coding ‍professionals. – **Flexible Work Schedule:** Many ​medical billing and coding jobs offer flexible work hours, allowing you to balance work and personal life. – **Competitive Salaries:** Medical billing and coding professionals ‌in NC can ​earn ‍competitive salaries, with opportunities⁢ for advancement. – **Career Growth Opportunities:** With the increasing demand for healthcare services,​ there are⁣ ample opportunities for⁤ career growth⁤ and advancement in the field of medical billing and​ coding.

**Practical Tips for Success**

If you⁤ are considering a​ career in medical billing and coding in NC, here are ⁢some practical tips ​to help you succeed in​ the field:

– **Get Certified:**‍ Consider obtaining professional certifications, such‌ as Certified Professional Coder ​(CPC), to enhance your skills and marketability. – **Gain Experience:** ‍Look for internships or entry-level positions to⁣ gain hands-on ⁢experience ​in medical billing and coding. – **Stay ​Updated:** Keep up with ‍the latest industry trends and‌ changes ⁤in healthcare⁢ regulations to ensure accurate coding and billing practices. -‍ **Network:** Build ​a professional network in⁤ the healthcare industry to‌ increase⁢ your job opportunities and career prospects.

**In Conclusion**

Medical billing and coding jobs in NC offer a promising career path for individuals looking for job stability, competitive salaries, and opportunities for growth. By pursuing ​a career⁣ in this high-demand field, you can unlock ⁣your future ⁣and make a meaningful impact​ in the healthcare ⁤industry. With the⁣ right skills, certifications, and practical tips, you can embark on⁤ a successful career in medical‌ billing and coding in ‍North Carolina. Don’t wait any longer – start your journey towards​ a rewarding career today!

https://schoolsformedicalbilling.org/open-your-future-high-demand-medical-billing-and-coding-jobs-in-nc/

[richardmedisys]

Efficient medical billing and coding are crucial for healthcare providers in North Carolina (NC) to ensure timely reimbursements and maintain a sustainable revenue stream. However, navigating the complexities of medical billing can be a daunting task, diverting valuable time and resources away from patient care. This is where Medisys Data Solutions (MDS) steps in, offering comprehensive medical billing services in North Carolina tailored to the unique needs of healthcare providers in NC.

[the-emerald-standard]

Heartbreaking News: North Carolina's Medical Marijuana Bill Likely Dead for This Year, House Speaker Confirms

North Carolina Medical Marijuana Bill Likely Dead for This Year, House Speaker Says

According to the Raleigh News & Observer, North Carolina's medical marijuana bill is likely dead for this year. House Speaker Tim Moore has stated that the bill will not be taken up during the current legislative session. The bill, which was introduced in February, would have allowed for the medical use of marijuana for certain medical conditions.

The bill was supported by a majority of the House, but it failed to pass the Senate. Moore said that the bill was unlikely to pass the Senate, and that it was unlikely to be taken up in the future. He also noted that the bill was unlikely to pass the House in its current form.

The bill would have allowed for the medical use of marijuana for certain medical conditions, including cancer, HIV/AIDS, glaucoma, and chronic pain. It would have also allowed for the sale of marijuana products in state-licensed dispensaries. However, the bill would have prohibited the sale of marijuana products to minors and would have required that all products be tested for safety and potency.

The bill was supported by a majority of the House, but it failed to pass the Senate. Moore said that the bill was unlikely to pass the Senate, and that it was unlikely to be taken up in the future. He also noted that the bill was unlikely to pass the House in its current form.

The failure of the bill is a setback for those who support the medical use of marijuana in North Carolina. However, there is still hope that the bill could be reintroduced in the future. In the meantime, those who are interested in the medical use of marijuana should consider hiring ACS Lab, an industry trusted testing and compliance partner for hemp and cannabis. ACS Lab provides comprehensive testing and compliance services to ensure that products meet the highest standards of safety and quality. Learn more about ACS Lab here.