ask an expert
hearing advice
Q. My family says that I turn the TV up too loud. I have noticed that when I am around a larger group of people that I have a difficult time understanding what is being said. I’m really not sure if I have a hearing problem. What should I do?
A. If you think you may be having difficulty with your hearing, it is best to get a hearing examination. Speak with your physician, or contact an audiologist to set up an appointment. The appointment will include a physical examination of the ears and a hearing test. If there is a problem with your ears that could benefit from medical treatment, your audiologist will make a referral to your primary-care physician or an ear, nose and throat specialist. If other treatments, such as hearing aids, are needed, your audiologist can provide you with information regarding these options. The important thing is for you to take that first step and make the call. Like any other aspect of your health, taking care of your hearing is an important part of your overall well-being.
Kevin Tripp, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology Sound Advice Hearing Doctors 2080 W. Main St., Suite 2 Cabot 501-605-5200 3522 E. Race Ave. Searcy 501-268-3500 www.soundadvicehearing.com
facility admissions
Q. Does Medicare automatically pay for my loved one’s admission into a nursing or rehab facility?
A. A doctor may order observation services to decide whether admission to the facility is needed. During the time the patient is being observed in the hospital, he or she is considered an outpatient — this time can’t be counted toward the three-day inpatient hospital stay needed for Medicare to cover a patient’s skilled-nursing-facility stay. If a patient leaves the facility and needs to come back for more services, and if the break in skilled care lasts more than 30 days, then a new three-day hospital stay is needed for the patient to qualify for additional skilled-nursing-facility care. The new hospital stay doesn’t need to be for the same condition that was treated during the previous stay. If a patient’s break in skilled care lasts for at least 60 days, this ends the current benefit period and renews the patient’s skilled-nursing-facility benefits. This means the maximum coverage available for these benefits would be up to 100 days.
Austin Wright, Administrator Greystone Nursing and Rehab 121 Spring Valley Road Cabot www.greystonenursingandrehab.com 501-605-1545
chiropractic technology
Q. Are there any new innovations or technology in chiropractic treatment?
A. With measurable outcomes, technology has become a part of mainstream chiropractic, and there are many techniques. One that many patients prefer is our computerized technique. In this procedure, the patient is very comfortable and can sit in a chair to get adjusted. For those people who are concerned about getting their spines adjusted, this is a favored option that measures their progress.
Williams Chiropractic Wellness Center Sabrina Williams, D.C. Candice Holt, D.C. 605 W. Dewitt Henry Drive, Suite C Beebe 501-882-7565 www.beebechiropractor.com