Josh

America’s military veterans are experiencing a healthcare crisis. This may seem strange, considering that we have an entire service committed to caring for veterans – Veterans Affairs – yet too many struggle to access appropriate treatment, a situation that’s equally true regarding both physical and mental health. However, when we consider the many barriers that keep veterans from taking advantage of these services, just how badly our system is failing becomes obvious.

Physical Isolation

One of the major reasons why veterans don’t take advantage of VA healthcare services is location. Though there are over 1200 VA healthcare centers, especially in rural areas, they may be too far from where our veterans live for them to reach them easily. Furthermore, since veterans in rural areas are typically older and less educated than their urban counterparts, they are also the least equipped to navigate the system. They’re also more likely to be in failing health, making it difficult for them to travel to these facilities.

Lack Of Trauma-Informed Care

Another common healthcare issue that veterans face is a lack of trauma-informed care. Though trauma-informed care is most commonly discussed in mental health, when treating veterans, it should serve as an important consideration regardless of the specialty. For example, many veterans require physical rehabilitation services due to injuries sustained during war, but due to PTSD, they may struggle to participate in treatment.

One strategy that could make rehabilitation services more accessible to veterans who don’t have access to VA-based services could be using video recording software to train physical therapists in appropriate strategies for treating veterans. Doctors in locations far from VA programs might also use video conferencing to collaborate with specialist providers so that they can better support their patients.

Communication Challenges

Though most people recognize that a large portion of soldiers have PTSD and there is growing awareness of the lasting impact of traumatic brain injuries from IED explosions, one commonly overlooked health problem among vets is hearing loss, but it shouldn’t come as a surprise. Guns, bombs, helicopters, and other military equipment is loud and frequent exposure to such noise levels can damage an individual’s hearing with just a few exposures. For those who have spent years in a war zone, hearing can be severely compromised. This can make communication challenging and could discourage veterans from attending doctors’ appointments because they are embarrassed and frustrated by this.

Doctors can mitigate the effects of hearing loss on patient attendance and compliance by offering multiple communication strategies, including writing and sign language, regularly screening military veterans for hearing loss, and by simply addressing hearing issues head-on. It’s easy for veterans to assume they’re alone in their struggles, but when doctors discuss these problems and connect patients with community services and support groups, it can help lift an invisible weight.

We can’t end the healthcare crisis among veterans overnight, but there are changes we can make at both the systemic and individual level that can help patients get the care they deserve. Our veterans put their lives on the line, and they deserve to be cared for no matter the challenges.

Francesco decided to take the adventure of a lifetime: becoming an entrepreneur abroad.

After many considerations, he realized it’s what he’s always wanted, so he decided to leave everything behind and get started. As a pastry chef, he knew he wanted to open a bakery like the one his grandmother used to have.

He now runs a successful one in the USA, but he doesn’t have a social security number (SSN). He has taxable income and needs to file a tax return but doesn’t know what to do.

If he doesn’t submit a tax return and pay taxes, he’s concerned this will negatively affect his immigration status. Many other foreign entrepreneurs face this same dilemma: they have no legal status as residents, but as owners of businesses, they know they need to pay taxes.

There’s a simple solution: he needs to file an ITIN application.

The nine-digit number referred to as “Individual Taxpayer Identification Number” is assigned to foreigners who haven’t obtained lawful status in the US. The number allows you to legally submit your tax return along with any tax you may owe.

The ITIN doesn’t prove legal residence but does offer benefits. Let’s see how it worked out for Francesco.

Francesco Wants to do Everything by the Book When it Comes to His Business

Working in the USA without having a social security number is a common concern among immigrants. When Francesco immigrated to the USA, he was excited about building a new future, starting a business, and earning income for himself and his family.

He has built up a reputable business in a short time but is worried about paying his taxes. He doesn’t want to tarnish his relationship with the government especially if not paying taxes affects his legal status.

Even though his bakery is doing well, he already knows he needs to borrow money to purchase more equipment, tools, and supplies. Unless he can gain access to cash, his business revenue could decline quickly.

Not having a social security number weighs on his mind. How can he submit his taxes without one?

Because he needs to apply for a loan, Francesco doesn’t see any way to meet a lender’s requirements. He knows he needs to establish a personal and business credit score before a bank can approve a loan.

These concerns make him feel overwhelmed until a friend tells him to file an ITIN application. Francesco had no idea the number even existed and is relieved to find out there’s a solution for his predicament.

By having an ITIN, Francesco can pay his taxes, open a bank account, build a credit score and apply for a loan. Plus, in five simple steps, he can apply for an ITIN and have the number in as little as six weeks.

The process involves filling out a designated form, providing required documents, and submitting the form. It’s even possible to submit his tax return when he completes the ITIN application. That’s because the IRS has simplified the process so it’s easy to file your tax return when you fill out the application.

This takes the stress off of immigrants who are employed gainfully in the USA. If you’re in a similar situation, you probably are relieved too.

Don’t Wait to Submit your ITIN Application

If you’re an immigrant without an SSN number, now you know what to do when you work and need to pay taxes.

It’s normal to be concerned about this process but the steps are straightforward and simple.

By finding out how to complete the application, you’re one step closer to earning income and building a life abroad minus the worry.

The adventure of a lifetime is waiting for you too. Why should you wait one more day?

To read more on topics like this, check out the lifestyle category.

 

Finding a good orthodontist is extremely important if you want the best dental treatment for your family. Being born with perfectly aligned teeth is something that does not occur for everyone, and there is always a likelihood that a member of your family, especially children, will need orthodontic treatment down the line. To guide you in selecting the right orthodontist for your family, use the tips below.

1. Orthodontics is a speciality

In the field of dentistry, orthodontics is a speciality. Not all dentists who offer orthodontic services specialise in orthodontics. In finding an orthodontist Woodbridge VA practitioner, ask for credentials and determine if the dentist has indeed completed the necessary training to practice orthodontics.

2. Free initial consultation

You will not get fitted for braces right off the bat. Your dentist will usually refer you to visit an orthodontist for a consultation to determine whether you need them or not. Meeting an orthodontist for an initial consultation will give you an idea of what can be done to improve your smile or the recommended treatment to correct teeth alignment or bite issues. As much as possible, look for an orthodontist who offers free initial exams and consultations.

3. Check the clinic’s background and reputation

Dental clinics, especially those that practice orthodontics get reviewed by patients. Most reputable practitioners have an online presence where you can check past client testimonials and feedback. You may ask for referrals from your regular dentist or from friends and family. Some of the things you need to look into are the number of years in service as well as the availability of advanced orthodontic treatments and methods.

4. Do they work with both children and adult patients?

There are times when patients wait until they are adults to commit to orthodontic treatment. Sometimes, you may need it for health reasons and not merely for aesthetic purposes. Not every orthodontist caters to adult patients. It is best to look for a practitioner who caters to both kids and adults so that all the dental needs of your family are met.

5. Availability of different treatment methods

There is a wide range of options available if you are looking for an orthodontic treatment that will fit your lifestyle and needs. Look for an orthodontist who can offer you several options besides traditional metal braces. There are ceramic braces, self-ligating braces, and clear aligners available today, so you need not be limited to one or only two options when seeking treatment for malocclusion.

6. Quality of facilities and friendliness of the staff

Every patient wants to feel safe and comfortable when visiting the dentist. It is all the more crucial to check the clinic’s facilities first and determine if the employees are friendly and accommodating before you choose a practitioner in your area. If you have kids who need orthodontic treatment, the orthodontist, as well as the staff, should know how to make kids feel at ease. Look for a dental clinic which is well-maintained, clean, and also welcoming. The clinic should be inviting enough to make you look forward to every visit.

 

Having perfectly aligned teeth is the dream of many. Fortunately, the many advancements in orthodontics make it possible to achieve a confident smile, with minimal discomfort. Orthodontic treatment is usually recommended while the patient is still young. And for a parent contemplating the available options, the following are types of braces many orthodontic practitioners today recommend.

Traditional metal braces

Orthodontic supplies used in creating conventional metal braces have gone through significant advancements over the years. Metal braces today are much lighter, and less conspicuous than earlier predecessors. Typically made using surgical stainless-steel, metal braces are attached to the teeth using some cement adhesive. Each bracket is connected to the other with a wire, which is responsible for creating the pressure that moves the teeth into position.

The wires connecting each bracket has elastics or ligatures which the orthodontist replaces every time the braces get tightened. There are other types of metal braces which do not use O-rings, making the appliance more attractive. These braces are also called self-ligating braces.

Ceramic dental braces

Ceramic braces work the same way as traditional metal braces. The main difference is that brackets are made using a transparent material. Ceramic braces are less visible, thus making this type of braces more attractive. Adults who wish to undergo teeth alignment treatment usually choose ceramic braces.

Damon Braces

Damon braces are a recent innovation in teeth straightening treatment popular with both patients and orthodontics because there is less discomfort and patients will not have to visit the dentist as often. Instead of traditional elastics used to connect the wires, Damon braces have a sliding mechanism that adjusts along with the teeth’s movement.

Other advantages of Damon braces include less friction and pressure exerted on the teeth, which makes the treatment process less painful. These braces are also easier to maintain and keep clean. Since the patient makes fewer visits to the dentist, you save money and time as well.

Removable clear aligners

Invisalign is a specific brand of clear aligners used as an alternative to conventional or Damon braces. These aligners look like mouth guards worn by the patient. The orthodontist will prepare a new set of aligners every two weeks depending on the teeth’s movement. However, clear aligners are not suitable for correcting serious bite issues. Nonetheless, orthodontists often recommend using clear aligners for maintenance after completing conventional teeth alignment using braces.

Forsus appliance for correcting serious bite issues

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children get screened for orthodontic treatment as early as seven years old. Forsus appliances replaced headgear for correcting severe overbites. A Forsus instrument or spring is attached inside the cheeks and connected to the braces subsequently adjusting the lower or upper jaw and putting it into position.

Palatal expander

Overcrowding of teeth is another problem which makes teeth straightening more challenging. In the past, orthodontists would extract some of the teeth to create space for teeth to move in. These days, another method used by orthodontists is making patients wear palatal expanders for a period. This device puts pressure on upper molars to slowly move teeth apart.

To understand the SEC Whistleblower Program, a bit of context is necessary. In the aftermath of the second greatest financial meltdown in US history, as caused by all sorts of irresponsible, shady Wall Street deals. The SEC had existed in a more tame, obscure form for years, but it wasn’t until the President signed in the Dodd Frank Wall Street Reform Act in 2010 that they were empowered to their current state and more widely publicized. It was then that the modern Whistleblower program was created as a part of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, an independent agency under the Federal Government

It was created to promote transparency and honesty in business, and to protect those who report malpractice in the financial sector. It forms one part of the safeguards established against history repeating itself, and its’ leadership prides itself on their position and performance; In less than a decade of operation, they’ve secured over one billion dollars in compensation from those found abusing the financial system and paid out $250 million dollars to whistleblowers across the United States. When you see backdoor deals, collusion and the like – the SEC is there to level the playing field between you and the powerful people who think they’re above the law.

They have an impressive, successful record of winning cases and defending freedom of information. They’ve successfully combatted corrupt titans of industry, guided faithfully by their original mission statement -“We seek to level the playing field, so SEC whistleblowers can successfully report securities violations—without personal or professional regrets.”

They refer to the ability of people to report without fear of reprisal; this is because the program will take anonymous reports and carry the burden of pursuing justice from there. They also refer to protect them from regrets, but I must regretfully inform the reader that they’re currently closed; the government shutdown has deprived this safeguard of the American economy of appropriations needed to pay their employees. Hopefully, such partisan fighting will soon come to an end and allow the men and women of SEC to do their good work, instead of being repaid for it by being made to fear for their ability to pay rent and provide for their families.

If you want to learn more about our blog, please click here.