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Revenue Cycle Manager needed

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Revenue Cycle Manager to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for overseeing and managing the entire revenue cycle process, from patient registration to final payment. This individual will play a critical role in ensuring the financial success of our organization by implementing effective revenue cycle strategies and optimizing processes.

Click on the Careers link at the bottom of this page to view complete job description and apply online now!

 

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Epinephrine Storage and Carrying Tips

The new American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) guidelines update on anaphylaxis discusses numerous tips about carrying and proper storage of epinephrine auto-injectors (Epi-Pen, Auvi-Q, Adrenaclick, or others).  This month, we want to go over some of those tips for you!

 

  1. Always carry two! The epinephrine auto-injectors come in two-packs. They are meant to stay together. This is so there is always a second dose available if it is needed if symptoms don’t fully respond to one dose or return after the first dose. Make sure you carry both!
  2. Practice technique! Most devices come with a trainer and there are numerous educational videos showing proper use. Your healthcare provider and staff are also great resources! Be sure you know how to properly use your device, so you’re prepared if an emergency occurs.
  3. Check expiration dates! Make sure you always have up-to-date epinephrine auto-injectors and replace expired devices as they will be the best option to manage an allergic reaction. However, if you are ever having an allergic emergency and realize you have an expired device, it is still okay to use it! It is still safe to use, and we would rather you use an expired device than no treatment at all.
  4. Make sure it’s being stored at the right temperature! The optimal range for epinephrine storage varies slightly based on manufacturer. However, the “sweet spot” is between 68-77 degrees Fahrenheit. Your device should not be exposed to extreme temperatures for long periods of time. it should not be frozen or refrigerated and should not be kept in a vehicle in hot weather. There are insulated carrying cases you can purchase to keep the temperature regulated. Also, when traveling, make sure it is not in your checked luggage!
  5. Possible new treatments are coming! There is a lot of research on anaphylaxis and various treatment options, including possible needle-free epinephrine devices! As possible new options come available, your Allergist will discuss which treatment is best and safest for you!
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Reactions to Radiocontrast Dye

Have you ever had an allergic reaction to radiocontrast dye, also referred to as iodinated contrast?

These reactions typically occur when contrast agents, commonly iodine-based, are administered to enhance the visibility of specific tissues or organs during procedures like computed tomography (CT) scans or angiography. Adverse reactions are generally categorized as either immediate or delayed. Immediate reactions, occurring within minutes to an hour of contrast administration, range from mild symptoms such as flushing, itching, or nausea to more severe symptoms like respiratory distress and anaphylaxis. Delayed reactions, although less common, can present hours to days post-procedure and may involve skin rashes or kidney-related complications.

If you have ever had a reaction to contrast dye, it is crucial to differentiate between true allergic reactions and non-allergic responses. True allergies involve an immune system response to the contrast agent, whereas non-allergic reactions are often related to the physicochemical properties of the contrast medium. While the overall incidence of true allergic reactions is low, individuals with a history of previous reactions, asthma, or certain medical conditions may be at a higher risk.

For many of those who have had reactions to contrast dye, special pre-treatment protocols with antihistamines and corticosteroids may be considered to help prevent future reactions. The pretreatment protocol can reduce the risk of future reactions down to 10%! There are also other precautions that can be discussed to reduce the chance of reactions.

It is a common myth that shellfish allergy is connected to contrast dye allergy. This is because they both use iodine. Thankfully, iodine does not cause allergic reactions and having a shellfish allergy does not place you at increased risk of contrast reaction. If you have more questions about this, you can discuss it with your allergist!

Managing Pet Allergy

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Vasomotor (non-allergic) Rhinitis

Vasomotor rhinitis, also known as non-allergic rhinitis, is a condition characterized by chronic nasal symptoms without any specific allergic triggers. Unlike allergic rhinitis, which is caused by an immune response to allergens, vasomotor rhinitis is associated with abnormal nasal blood vessels and nerve sensitivity. Symptoms of vasomotor rhinitis are very similar to those of allergic rhinitis. They include nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and post-nasal drainage.  With vasomotor rhinitis, often the runny nose is very watery and sudden-onset, and many patients describe their nose as “running like a faucet.”  However, unlike allergic rhinitis, all these symptoms occur without actually having specific allergic triggers. To make things even more confusing, you can have both allergic and non-allergic rhinitis at the same time!  Triggers of vasomotor rhinitis include changes in temperature or humidity, strong odors (perfumes, smoke), air pollutants, certain foods or beverages (spicy foods, alcohol), hormonal changes, and emotional stress. Thankfully there are many treatment options for vasomotor rhinitis, including nasal saline, medicated nasal sprays, and allergen avoidance and environmental control measures. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as an allergist, for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan for vasomotor rhinitis. They can help identify triggers and provide guidance on managing your symptoms!

 

 

 

 

 

Arizona Allergens and Summertime!

In Arizona, summer is typically associated with high temperatures and dry conditions, which can significantly affect the presence and concentration of pollen and mold spores in the air. While there is variability depending on specific locations within the state, here are some common types of outdoor allergens that may be present during the summer months in Arizona:

 

  1. Grass Pollen: Grasses are a common source of pollen during the summer season. Bermuda grass, buffalo grass, and other warm-season grasses are prevalent in Arizona and can release pollen particles into the air, potentially triggering allergies.

 

  1. Weed Pollen: Weeds, such as ragweed, are known to produce abundant pollen during the summer. Although ragweed is more common in the fall, other weed species like lamb’s quarters, pigweed, and Russian thistle (tumbleweed) can also release pollen and cause allergic reactions.

 

  1. Tree Pollen: While tree pollen is more abundant during the spring, some trees in Arizona may continue to release pollen during the early part of summer. Juniper trees, also known as cedar trees, are prevalent in the region and can produce allergenic pollen.

 

  1. Mold spores: Mold spores can be found year-round. While some molds, such as Alternaria, are more prevalent after rain or in areas with high humidity, some molds such as Aspergillus and Cladosporium thrive in warmer months and hotter, dry conditions.

 

It’s important to note that the specific pollen types and their levels can vary depending on factors such as location, weather conditions, and plant growth patterns. Checking local pollen and mold spore forecasts, as well as consulting with an allergist, can provide more specific and up-to-date information tailored to your specific area within Arizona and your personal allergies. Taking necessary precautions, such as keeping windows closed during high pollen counts, using air purifiers, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak pollen times, can help manage allergy symptoms during the summer months.

Five Reasons why Food Allergy Action Plans are Important

Five Reasons why Food Allergy Action Plans are Important

 

A food allergy action plan is an important tool for individuals who have food allergies, especially in settings such as schools, childcare facilities, or any place where a person may be at risk of exposure to allergens. The plan outlines specific steps to be taken in case of an allergic reaction. Here are some key reasons why a food allergy action plan is important:

 

  1. Emergency Preparedness: Food allergies can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening reactions, such as anaphylaxis. Having an action plan ensures that everyone involved is prepared in case of an allergic reaction. It provides clear instructions on what actions to take, including the use of emergency medication, such as epinephrine auto-injectors (e.g., EpiPen, Auvi-Q, etc).

 

  1. Standardized Communication: An action plan serves as a communication tool between the individual with the food allergy, their caregivers, teachers, school staff, and other relevant personnel. It provides vital information about the specific allergens, symptoms, and appropriate steps to be taken during an allergic reaction.

 

  1. Early Recognition and Intervention: The action plan includes a list of potential allergic symptoms, enabling early recognition of an allergic reaction. By promptly identifying the symptoms, appropriate actions can be taken, potentially preventing the reaction from escalating.

 

  1. Education: An action plan helps raise awareness and understanding among those involved. Education about food allergies is crucial for creating a safe environment and fostering empathy and support for individuals with allergies.

 

  1. Consistent Care: By having a documented action plan, the individual with the food allergy can receive consistent care across different settings. The plan provides a reference for caregivers and ensures that appropriate precautions and interventions are followed.

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Vasomotor Rhinitis

Vasomotor Rhinitis

 

Vasomotor rhinitis is a condition that causes chronic sneezing, congestion, or runny nose that can be triggered by pollutants like a dusty environment, odors, foods or beverages, or weather changes. These symptoms can often seem like typical allergic rhinitis (hay fever) symptoms. About 50% of patients with allergies will have some type of vasomotor rhinitis. While vasomotor rhinitis can cause similar symptoms, what is going on in the body is much different. In allergic rhinitis, your immune system is involved and has formed antibodies to the trigger, such as pollen. In vasomotor rhinitis, the triggers merely cause an irritation which causes congestion, sneezing, runny nose.  Have you ever had a runny nose from eating a spicy food? That’s a kind of vasomotor rhinitis called gustatory rhinitis.

 

Many patients will have mild symptoms but if symptoms are constant and very irritating, there are treatment options to help control symptoms. Often, allergy testing will be performed to see how to best manage symptoms.    Often times, patients will mistakenly think they may be allergic to a smell or a food, when it’s actually vasomotor rhinitis! It’s important to discuss with your allergist if you are experiencing symptoms like these and have questions, so they can come up with the best recommendations for you!