Cortisone Shot Cost
Cortisone shots, sometimes referred to as a steroid shot or cyst injection, often contain a corticosteroid and a local anesthetic to help reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief for a variety of painful conditions such as osteoarthritis symptoms, as well as back, knee, hip and shoulder pain, to name a few.
How much does a cortisone shot cost?
The cost of a cortisone shot will depend on the reason for your visit, the amount used, your doctor and geographical region.
For those without health insurance, the costs can range from as little as $50 to $125 to treat deep acne, for example, to as much as $150 to $375 per shot to treat other parts of the body. These estimates are for the shots only and would not factor in the doctor’s office visit examination fee and x-rays, a common test doctors want to perform as it make it easier for them to see the needle as they insert it.
Typically, an office examination fee, the x-ray (if needed) and one cortisone shot can cost a total of $550 to $850 without insurance.
Cortisone shots are typically covered by most private health insurance providers as long as your doctor deems it medically necessary, however, according to most policies, there can be restrictions. Some plans, for instance, may say you can only receive a maximum of two shots and if not relief is felt, then you have to consider other options. As all insurance policies will vary, it’s best to talk to your insurance company for more information to know what your policy may cover.
According to a forum member on this SteadyHealth.com forum thread, they had a cortisone injection shot in their knee that cost $300 at their orthopedic doctor, while another had four shots in their lower back for $500.
The Cleveland Clinic notes that corticosteroid injections are often the first line of defense against osteoarthritis symptom and related joint pain in the shoulders, knees and hips, with the average shot retailing for $100.
Annie Tomlin at PopSugar.com, who used the shot for her acne, paid $125 for her visit.
| Prices found online... |
|---|
| $300 in cash at doctor's office |
| $249 cash for elbow injections without insurance coverage |
| 4 shots in lower back for $500 |
| 2 shots in the knees for $1,800 at a hospital |
| $200 for a shot in the shoulder (included office visit fee) |
| $761 at orthopedist office after x-rays, office visit fee and two shots |
| $40 for the shot, but the total was $205 after office fee |
| $155 for one shot in wrist |
| $190 for one elbow injection |
| $455 for hip injection |
| $135 for shot plus another $150 for office fee |
What is a cortisone shot?
The cortisone shot is designed to mimic the natural version of a synthetic steroid in a way the body produces in lower dosages to help heal injuries. Not an anabolic steroid, meaning it will not have performance-enhancing properties, the shot, as mentioned, is typically mixed with a local anesthetic and injected into the affected area. The shot is almost always administered inside your local doctor’s office.
The shot is often used to treat inflammation in small areas of the body, specific joints or in some cases, acne. WebMD also notes that can help treat inflammation that relates to asthma, rheumatoid arthritis as well as allergic reactions.
The procedure
For acne, your doctor will inject the corticosteroid directly into your cyst, or as most people know it — a zit. Within a few hours, the pimp will start to dwindle, and usually, after 24 hours, it should disappear completely. Depending on your circumstances, your doctor may or may not numb the area before the injection, but according to Deven Hopp at Byrdie.com, the procedure is relatively painless. The whole procedure, in all, will take less than 15 seconds per injection. After the injection completes, a band-aid is applied to the injection site and you’re able to go home immediately.
As for body joints, the procedure is the same as the acne, with the only exception that the injection is applied directly to the joints, providing relief within 48 hours. For most, the relief can last several weeks or even months as the shot is designed to help reduce any inflammatory cell activity within the joints. In some cases, however, a doctor may require an x-ray or ultrasound to help watch the needle’s progress as it enters your body in order to target the right spot.
Cortisone shot side effects
While rare, side effects do exist, according to the Mayo Clinic, including lightening of the skin, an infection, bleeding from a broken blood vessel, soreness at the injection site and/or an aggravation fee in the inflamed area due to the reaction of the medication. In some cases, the tendons can weaken or even rupture. For those who have diabetes, there have been reports the shots can raise your blood sugar, and if you do have an infection at the time of administering, it can take longer to recover.
Long-term side effects do exist and will greatly depend on the dosage and how often you receive the shots. With frequent shots and higher dosages, side effects included the thinning of the skin, easy bruising, weight gain, puffiness in the face, a higher blood pressure and thinning of the bones (osteoporosis)
Tips to know
To become effective, the injections, according to Golf Digest, take up to 36 hours before you feel its full effectiveness, and depending on the condition being treated, the injection can provide relief for weeks.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends no more than four shots within a 12-month period.
The Mayo Clinic mentions that these shots can cause the cartilage within the joint to deteriorate and because of this, doctors will often want to limit the number of shots into a specific joint, usually no more than three to four per year.
Varicella Vaccine Cost
The varicella vaccine, known as the chickenpox vaccine, is a series of two vaccinations designed to protect nearly everybody from getting chickenpox.
The first vaccination should be administered at 12 to 18 months, while the second shot should be administered at about four to six years old. For anyone older than this, the second shot would follow 28 days after the initial vaccination, according to the CDC.
How much does the varicella vaccine cost?
The cost of the varicella vaccine will depend on your health insurance policy and where you receive your vaccination. At a local pharmacy, the prices tend to range anywhere from $125 to $175 per dosage without insurance to as little as $0 with a private health insurance plan, including Medicare. This price could increase if you were to have the vaccination performed in the doctor’s office as they will tack on a doctor’s office consultation charge.
The Affordable Care Act requires both group and individual health insurance plans to include a number of vaccines as covered preventative services, including varicella. As long as you’re covered by insurance, there’s a good chance you will not have to pay out of pocket for this vaccination as long as it’s performed at an in-network provider.
According to this Walgreen’s official pricing list at its local care centers, the price, per dosage, is $149.99. At Walmart, the vaccination, without insurance, is said to be close to the same amount, about $145 per dose.
The CDC, according to its vaccination pricing list, noted the price for the varicella vaccine can range anywhere from as little as $122 to $202 without insurance.
What is the varicella vaccine?
The varicella vaccine, commonly known as chickenpox, is a common childhood disease which can cause a fever, skin rashes and the breakout of painful fluid-filled blisters on the skin. Most people, according to Cigna, who do receive this vaccination often will not get the chickenpox, and in the case they do, the case is considered to be mild, with very few side effects. The disease is often spread through the air from person to person or by coming into contact with the fluid from a chickenpox blister.
While chickenpox can be mild, there are some instances where it can serious or even fatal for young infants and adults as it can sometimes lead to breathing problems, skin infections, brain damage or worse yet — death. A person who has developed chickenpox can often develop shingles later in life, which, similar to chickenpox, can cause nerve pain, skin infection and/or vision/hearing problems, symptoms which can last uncomfortably for months.
The vaccine works by introducing your body to a small dose of the protein from the virus, which will help your body develop an immunity to the disease in the future.
Like all vaccines on the market, it will not provide protection 100 percent and will not cure an active infection.
How does the vaccine work?
As an injection beneath the skin, it can be received either at your local doctor’s office, inside a pharmacy or at the local health department.
Children who are 12 months to 12 years old will receive one injection, or in some cases, may be given a booster three months later. People are older than 13 years will receive two shots four weeks apart, but individual boosters can different.
Who should get the vaccine?
The varicella vaccine is recommended for all children younger than 13, adolescents and adults who have never had the chickenpox before. If you already had chickenpox, then the vaccination is not required as you’re not likely to acquire chickenpox twice.
Who should not get the vaccine?
- Anyone with an illness at the time of the vaccination
- Have HIV/AIDS or any disease that affects the immune system
- If you’re currently being treated with steroids
- Currently has cancer or receiving cancer treatment
- Have untreated tuberculosis
- Recently had a blood transfusion
- If currently pregnant, women should wait until they have given birth to receive the vaccination
- If trying to get pregnant, women should wait for at least one month before trying to conceive
- Anyone with an allergy to gelatin or the antibiotic neomycin
- Those who have had an allergic reaction to any vaccine or an active ingredient in the vaccination
Source: CDC
Side effects of the varicella vaccine
- Mild symptoms may include redness or soreness at the injection site, a mild rash and/or a mild to moderate fever.
- Severe symptoms, albeit rare, can include a seizure, pneumonia, a difficult time breathing, wheezing, hives, paleness, fast heartbeat and/or dizziness.
- If you experience any of these symptoms, talk with your medical professional immediately.
Source: CDC
Tips to know
If you do not have insurance, talk with your local health department to see if you qualify for a low-cost or no-cost vaccination. Again, if you do have a health insurance plan, the Affordable Care Act requires new health plans to cover this vaccination, meaning you can go to your local doctor’s office and have the vaccination at no charge. To be certain, though, talk with your insurance company to know the rules and if you’re covered as some insurance companies will not cover you if your doctor’s office were to bill your visit differently other than “preventive care.”
The Vaccines for Children Program (VFC) may be able to help children at discounts. If you do not have health insurance or cannot afford the vaccine, you may want to look into this program.
Tire Valve Stem Replacement Cost
Lately, if you’re noticing your tire is slowly leaking and you cannot find the culprit, it could be time to repair the tire valve, the part located inside of a vehicle’s wheel where the tires are inflated. Inside, they have a spring-loaded valve which seals itself by using the tire’s air pressure.
Over time, as the part grows old, the part will start to become brittle, often cracking, causing the unwanted leaks.
When the part starts to leak, it will not be able to hold air, and depending on the severity of the leak, it may be slower or in some cases, the tire will not hold air at all.
Regardless, in most scenarios, your best bet is to replace the valve stem to avoid a dangerous driving situation.
Valve stem replacement cost
The cost of a tire valve stem replacement will all depend on the professional you use and the type of system your car uses.
If your car uses a tire pressure monitoring system (all vehicles after 2007 have this part), for example, some of these systems will use a sensor that is all part of the valve stem, making the part much more expensive, about $75 to $125 per wheel if you needed the sensor replaced as well.
However, for a simple, straightforward valve replacement, without any sensors or computer components, the costs should be less than $5 to $30 per tire at most mechanics and tire franchises. Some mechanics may charge a shop minimum, depending on the shop policy, but most are happy to offer a quote over the phone.
As for just the parts and no professional repairs factored in, a higher-quality four-pack will cost a pinch less than $10.
According to members on this RedFlagDeals.com forum thread, they stated you should be prepared to spend $12 to $25 per tire, with one member, in particular, claiming he paid $20 to $25 per tire at his local Walmart.
The valve stem replacement process
If you take your car into a mechanic, the first thing he or she will do is confirm that the valve stem is the part responsible for the leak, and this is often done by rubbing soapy water around the valve stem to see if any bubbles form.
Once the valve stem is confirmed as the faulty part, the next step will require the mechanic to deflate the tire, and depending on the mechanic’s preference, he or she may remove the tire off of the vehicle as well to make the repair easier. However, the repair can be performed with the tire intact as long as the car is hoisted on a car jack.
Once the tire is deflated, a valve stem tool will be used to help unscrew the valve from the tire to remove the old core from the tire.
Next, while using the tapered end of the valve core tool, he or she will clean the valve stem and will make sure any obstructions from around the valve stem and inside the tire are removed.
Lastly, the new core will be installed using the valve stem tool, the same end that was used to remove the older core. The new valve is then tightened by hand, the tire is inflated and the valve cap is replaced.
The entire process, from start to finish, will only take an experienced mechanic less than 15 minutes to perform YourMechanic.com has a nice illustration as to how the entire process works.
Types of valve stems
Standard: As the name implies, a standard valve stem can operate at an air pressure of 65psi or below and is commonly found on all passenger vehicles, according to Discount Tire.
Chrome-Sleeve rubber: Similar to that of a standard valve stem, this valve stem can also operate at an air pressure of 65psi or below, but unlike a standard valve stem, it will have a chrome sleeve covering the valve, along with a chrome valve cap, primarily for cosmetic reasons.
High-pressure: Commonly found on trucks and trailers, this type of valve stem is recommended when air pressures surpass 65psi.
High-pressure metal: As per Discount Tire, this type of valve stem will be recommended for high-performance purposes since a rubber grommet will be used to help seal the metal performance valve to the wheel. This stem, unlike the others, will be attached with a nut and rubber grommet, and as the nut will need to be tightened over time, it’s recommended it’s tightened occasionally to prevent any air loss.
Tips to know
To determine if your valve stem is leaking or not, CarsDirect.com recommends you rub a mixture of dish soap and water over the uncapped valve stem with your finger. If you see bubbles starting to form, then this means air is escaping and the valve is, indeed, leaking. However, if you see no bubbles around the valve stem, you will have to look elsewhere as the leak does not exist here.
UriVarx Cost
UriVarx™, a product of the Innovus Pharma Company based in the United States, is a natural supplement designed for women to help take care of any urinary tract problems by targeting the tissues surrounding the bladder to promote healthy urination.
According to the manufacturer, they claim it has been clinically approved and was proven in an 8-week double placebo-controlled trial in 150 patients, and the formula poses little to no side effects when compared to drug therapy as the product blends all natural herbs to help restore healthy urination patterns and control.
How much does UriVarx™ cost?
The cost of a 60 capsule bottle will depend on the retailer you purchase from, with prices ranging anywhere from $50 to $70 per 60 capsule bottle At the time of this publishing, for example, Amazon.com was selling it for a few dollars less than $60 if you clipped a coupon and used the “subscribe and save” feature.
The official website of UriVarx™ offered prices for $70 for one bottle or $199 for four bottles, plus tax. If you returned the product within 30 days, you would be charged a $10 restocking fee.
We also found mutiple other retailers selling it for an average of $70 per bottle.
What is UriVarx™?
UriVarx™ comes as a form of a capsule in a 30-day supply bottle, with the manufacturer recommending patients taking one to two capsules in the morning accompanied by a meal.
According to the label, the ingredients include lindera extract, horsetail extract and cratevox three leaf caper extract, with additional ingredients including rice flour, silica and vegetable capsule. The company claims that research has shown that horsetail, for example, can promote healthy urinary tract function, while crataeva, according to its uncontrolled study, can enhance your bladder tone. Lindera is also known to provide anti-aging and antioxidant effects for both the bladder and urinary tract. Silica can help aid in mineral absorption.
UriVarx™ is created in an FDA approved facility and adheres to the CGMP and NSF standards.
The product has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Use only as directed, and consult with your doctor before considering the product. Pregnant women and women who are nursing should not consider this product.
Keep out of reach of children, storing it in a cool, dry place, no warmer than 86 degrees Fahrenheit and cooler than 59 degrees Fahrenheit.
How do you take it?
At first, the daily dosage is one capsule per day, in the morning, accompanied by a meal and water. If your body tolerates the capsule, then you can increase your dosage to two capsules per day. Be sure to follow the directions closely on the label or talk to your doctor for more information.
The clinical studies
According to the official website, UriVarx™ was tested in two clinical studies, with the first study comparing the efficiency of crateva, horsetail and mineral combination in comparison to the product. The comparison found that their product was more effective at month one and three following one month of use.
In its second study, UriVarx™ was evaluated over an eight-week, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study at two sites. According to this study, it was assessed by 142 subjects, both male and female, on both urinary frequency and urgency. With data collected at certain intervals at two, four and eight weeks, the outcome determined at week 8, the urinary day frequency was much lower for those who used UriVarx™ in comparison to the placebo. You can view more information in regards to its clinical study on their official website.
As per the fine print, no adverse side effects were noted during the study, however, less than three percent reported diarrhea, UTI and flatulence.
UriVarx™ reviews – what are people saying?
With close to 30 reviews on Amazon.com, the average rating was a three out of five stars, with 41%+ simply claiming the product did not work for them, while the top reviewers stated it did work as long as you followed the directions. This was the only reputable website we found online that offered a variety of reviews.
Typhoid Vaccine Cost
The typhoid vaccination, which can either be administered orally or as an injection, will always be recommended for travelers who plan on visiting an undeveloped country, often outside of the popular tourist destinations where sanitation and food hygiene are poor.
While the vaccination is not considered to be 100 percent effective, is designed to prevent typhoid fever, a serious intestinal illness that is caused by bacteria that has been spread either by contaminated water, food or via person-to-person contact.
How much does typhoid vaccine cost?
The cost of the typhoid vaccine will depend on your health insurance coverage (often doesn’t cover it, however), where you live and where you get the vaccination. For most who get the shot at a local health department or pharmacy will find themselves paying anywhere from $125 to $235 without any insurance coverage, while those receiving it at a local doctor’s office may pay more because of the office consultation fee tacked on.
Be sure to talk with your health insurance to see if this vaccination will be covered as many plans, including Medicare, will reject this claim since they are considered an “elective” vaccination, but that does not mean your insurance company will cover it as all policies vary. Even if your health insurance company claims they will cover the vaccination, you may still be required to cover co-pays, co-insurance and/or deductibles, for example.
According to the official CVS Minute Clinic pricing sheet, for example, the cost of the typhoid vaccine was $142, while at Walgreens, it would cost about the same, if available.
Amino.com, for example, broke down the costs of the most expensive and least expensive typhoid vaccination prices, with the highest network rate in the $253 range, whereas the lowest price was $158 in the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area.
What is the typhoid vaccine?
Typhoid, often referred to as typhoid fever, is a very serious and sometimes even fatal disease which is caused by a bacteria known as Salmonella Typhi. This bacteria is often transmitted via contaminated food and water; however, as mentioned prior, some people can be carriers, spreading the bacteria to others.
According to the CDC, close to 300 people get typhoid each year, most of the time while traveling, and because of this, the CDC highly recommends those who are traveling to developing countries, such as Asia, Africa, and Latin America, to get the vaccination at either your local doctor’s office, the health department or your doctor’s office.
Aside from the vaccination, you can consider a live, weakened vaccine which is taken orally by capsule at home, usually in four doses on alternate days, with the series needed to be completed at least one week before you travel. The oral vaccine can offer protection up to seven years, but it provides the best protection for four years, according to HealthLinkBC, while the injection will provide protection for up to two years.
With this vaccine, it will help your body produce the antibodies necessary to help fend off the bacteria, and again, while it isn’t 100 percent effective, it can protect up to 50 percent who do get it.
Who should not get this vaccine?
According to the CDC, the vaccine should not be given to children younger than two, anyone who has had a serious reaction to a vaccination in the past and people who ill at the time of vaccination.
The oral dosage for the live vaccination is not recommended for those older than six years old, anyone who had a severe reaction to a vaccination in the past, people who are ill at the time of administering, anyone with cancer, HIV or another immune system-related disease and/or people who are currently on antibiotics (if so, you will be asked to wait at least three days until the antibiotics are out of your system).
Tips to know
Again, the vaccine is not 100 percent effective, and aside from the vaccination, you can take preventative measures to help prevent the illness. While there are no alternatives, per se, the CDC recommends only drinking sealed water, avoiding any street food served at room temperature, eating only fruits and vegetables that have been thoroughly washed and to be sure to follow proper hygiene at all time, which simply means you should always wash your hands before and after every meal, as well as avoid touching your face while on your trip.
The CDC recommends getting the vaccination at least two weeks before you travel to give the vaccine some time to work.
As with any vaccination, side effects can occur, albeit rare, including stomach pain, headaches, vomiting and/or fever.
High-risk areas include the Indian subcontinent, Africa, South and South East Asia, South America, the Middle East, Europe and Central America, as per the NHS, with most people in the UK developing the fever while visiting Bangladesh, India or Pakistan. Be sure to talk with your doctor to know if you’re at risk while traveling to a country.
Tony Robbins Coaching Cost
The Tony Robbins “free coaching strategy session,” according to FindYourCoach.com, will require you to meet with a commissioned salesperson, also referred to as a “coaching consultant,” according to the website and people who have signed up for a session, a lot of people report as being a high-pressure sales tactic, often applying a lot of pressure to get you to sign the contract.
While the prices and even the information for the coaching being limited online, we did find some third-party sources that shared some valuable information.
Do note, however, that this information is based on third-party information and is not connected to Tony Robbins in any way. As our organization relies on your public feedback, which we encourage you to leave comments on what you paid below, we cannot deem the following information 100 percent accurate.
How much does Tony Robbins coaching cost?
As mentioned, the costs of a Tony Robbins coaching session is not publically available via the official website as the “consultants” will determine the fees and terms based on criteria which could not be confirmed. Often sold in packages, ranging from as little as six months to more than a year, we have found people paying anywhere from as little as $1,500 to more than $6,000 for a coaching package, all based on the payment terms, the contract length, the salespeople you dealt with and other multiple factors. Those who are interested in joining must pay this payment in full as per the contract.
Even when your contract ends, monthly charges will continue until you cancel the contract in writing. If you do cancel early, cancelation fees will apply, which, according to one source, was $495~.
If you didn’t want to sign a one-year or a longer-term deal, which often leads to discounts, then the average monthly costs were reported to be in the $500 to $900 per month range, all based on the package you choose.
FindYourCoach.com, while glancing at the contract, did notice that once your contract completes and you did not sign up for an additional contract term, then an automatic payment of $595 will be charged until you notify the company in writing that you no longer wish to take advantage of the coaching sessions.
According to this reviewer on Yelp.com, she stated she could only afford the $1,600 for the lower tiered coaching package, while another reviewer on this same review said she paid $5,500 for the full year.
All of this information was obtained via third-party websites, review-based websites and forum threads where people shared information on their experience and what they paid.
How do the coaching sessions work?
All new clients can take advantage of a free 30-day session on the official Tony Robbins website, a session which allows you to talk with a coach who will help you identify three to five barriers and limiting beliefs. Then, with this information, your coach will be able to set goals and define a vision for your future success. If you like what you hear in the session and want to begin, then the next steps require signing a contract, and from there, you will receiving a dedicated coach who you meet once a week via phone to help keep you accountable, narrow your vision and prioritize your actions. All coaches, as per Tony Robbins, are hand selected by Tony Robbins and are ready for any challenge that may come their way. Every coach has to complete more than 250 hours of training every year to maintain their mastery of the methods and strategies Robbins uses himself.
Tips to keep in mind
Apparently, the Tony Robbins coaching team will assign one coach but one common complaint was that coaches often leave the company during the duration of your contract, making it hard to connect with one dedicated coach for a full year. With this contract, keep in mind that you’re not purchasing the services of an individual coach, but rather, multiple coaches. Again, with limited information available online, the coaches Tony Robbins hires are said to meet the standards and qualifications set by his team. Former coaches online, while it is not 100 percent confirmed noted they were rated as to how well they could keep clients and how they could sell products and/or services, even after a contract was signed. All clients, as mentioned, must pay the contract in full to start sessions, while monthly payments, afterward, will be charged until canceled in writing.
According to the official Tony Robbins website, these life coaching sessions are ideal for those who want unbiased, unsound advice for those who are facing major decisions about life chances. This result coach will be able to help clarify your goals and create a chart to a more proactive path, all while assessing risks and asserting yourself intelligently. Tony Robbins notes the coaching sessions are great for those who want to create an actionable plan to create a vision you have to become a reality.
While all clients are unique, Tony Robbins recommend new clients to commit for one year of sessions as the first quarter can help identify the limiting beliefs, while the next few months after can help develop patterns to overcome these beliefs. Thereafter, your coach will help make these patterns become second nature to your life as you practice these habits daily.
Personal coaching isn’t the only thing Tony Robbins offers, and if you feel the prices mentioned above are too much for your tastes, he does offer products, ranging from $20 to $100 for DVDs to events that cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500+
The Camp Transformation Center Cost
The Camp Transformation Center, known for its “free” six-week weight loss challenge, has multiple locations nationwide, with franchise opportunities available who are interested in opening a center in their area.
This unique fitness concept allows members, throughout their communities, to lose weight in a six-week weight loss challenge by using high interval training, a specific nutrition plan with supplements and trainers inside the gym who are able to help you lose weight, all while tracking your results. Even after the challenge completes, many members do decide to stay with the center, paying gym membership fees just like any other gym.
“Empowering our community through health and fitness,” as the company claims, they state the program is addictive and once customers see the results, they are immediately hooked.
How much does The Camp Transformation Center cost?
Like most gym websites, the official pricing is hard to find, but with the help of third-party websites, such as Yelp, we were able to see what people were paying across the United States.
According to multiple reports online, the pricing structure works the same way. Upon sign up, you will be asked to put down a $497 deposit, and if you lose 20 pounds in six weeks, you will receive your deposit back or will have the option to apply the deposit toward future monthly membership fees if you do decide to stay; however, as with any deposit, there are stipulations to receive your deposit back, which we will get into below.
With the first six weeks technically being “free,” only if you lose your weight and follow the rules, you will still have to pay if you want to continue to take part in the gym activities, with costs reportedly being $125~ a month for unlimited workouts. These prices can and will vary based on local locations.
According to one Yelp reviewer, she stated she was quoted $127 a month for unlimited workouts after you place the deposit and complete the “free” six-week challenge.
How does the Camp Transformation Center work?
According to one Yelp reviewer we found online, as a challenger, you will first need to agree to the contract, claiming how you will get your $500 back if you complete the challenge in less than six weeks. Basically, it claims you will need to lose 20 pounds in six weeks, as well as lose five percent of your body fat, and your ending weight must be equal to or less than the weight chart. A personal trainer will be able to discuss the fine print and what needs to be accomplished in order to receive your deposit back. Based on the positive reviews we did see online, the gym really did seem as if they wanted to help and were not out to get your money, with the negative reviewers claiming about their deposit and not meeting expectations.
Next, after the contract is signed, you will then be asked to create a Facebook profile photo, showing everyone that you’re participating in the challenge, and as part of the agreement, you will need to work out a minimum of 30 times during the six week duration, all while checking in on the Facebook page every time you enter the gym. Also, as part of the Facebook protocol, you will also be asked to join a specific “secret group. During each workout, personal trainers will be on hand to help motivate and push you to meet your goals, all while answering any questions you may have.
As part of the agreement, you will need to participate in the weekly weigh-ins, allow photos to be taken and after the six weeks complete, you will need to take the final weigh-in, along with pictures. Within seven days of completion, you will need to write a Facebook and Yelp review, tag the director and participate in a survey.
After everything completes, you will then have the option to participate in the six-week challenge yet again, with the same restrictions in order to get your deposit back, but if you deny this choice and wish to stay, then you can continue to partake at the gym for a monthly membership fee.
To read the entire contract and stipulations, someone did post it online.
Tips to know
The company, from sources we talked with, stated you do need to leave a review in order to get your deposit back. With this being said, it’s important ot read between the lines as some reviewers may have left a positive review to receive their deposit back with no fuss. Again, this cannot be confirmed by the club, but it was mentioned online and via an interview with a member who wishes to remain anonymous.
Tecnis Symfony Lens Cost
According to the Better Vision Guide, more than 25 percent of Americans who are older than 40 have cataracts, a condition which impairs your vision as your natural lens becomes cloudy.
What does this mean for you?
Basically, as you start to grow older, there’s a good chance you will become this statistic as the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) estimates this number will increase to more than 50 percent by the time the average American hits 75 years old.
In 2016, the FDA approved a new type of intraocular lens, the Tecnis Symfony® lens — an artificial lens which replaces your clouded cataract lens. This press release, at the time of this publishing, notes this new category of intraocular lenses is the only option available which offers a full range of continuous high-quality vision after cataract surgery was performed, while also alleviating the effects of presbyopia, helping people focus on nearby objects.
The cost of the Tecnis Symfony® lens
The cost of the Tecnis Symfony® lens greatly depends on your eye doctor, your geographical location, the technology they use and your insurance, if you were to have coverage. Based on the estimates online, the costs, including the surgery, can range anywhere from $2,800 to $3,600 per eye. Depending on your eye doctor’s billing practices, you may be responsible for additional costs such as facility fees, a LASIK enhancement and/or follow-up visits in the future, for example. As all offices will vary, it’s so important to talk with your doctor to know, for certain, what your fee will include.
Most private health insurance plans, including Medicare, will cover cataract surgery with traditional lenses, however, astigmatism corrections, if needed, will often be denied. The same can be said about new technology IOLs. Be sure to check with your health insurance policy and your eye doctor’s office ahead of time to know exactly what you will be responsible for on the day of the surgery. One source we found, for example, stated they had this lens implanted, but she had to pay a $900 difference per eye after Medicare paid its share.
According to one member on this Patient.info forum thread, he said he was quoted $3,500 per eye, but he was unsure as to what was included. Another member on this same forum thread said they were quoted a total of $5,500, a quote which included the laser and the hospital stay.
The Tecnis Symfony® lens procedure
During the procedure, the natural lens of the eye is removed, and the artificial lens, the Tecnis Symfony® lens, in this case, is inserted into the eye. During cataract surgery, the most commonly IOL used is a monofocal lens, which allows someone to see at a certain distance, while closer objects may be a struggle, whereas the Tecnis Symfony® lens was created to help improve both of these ranges and help the quality of the vision.
What is a Tecnis Symfony® lens?
Whenever a clouded cataract lens is removed during surgery, it is replaced by an artificial lens, which is also known as an intraocular lens or IOL for short. The Tecnis Symfony®, simply, is one of the many branded IOL technologies on the market, just like the many brand names of food on the shelf. Based on your eye doctor’s preferences, he or she may consider this technology based on your current conditions.
The Tecnis Symfony® technology is known to be effective; however, it’s only known to fix near or distance vision. Compared to other newer technology, advanced IOLs are able to correct vision across all distances, making it great for those who do not want to worry about glasses. This doesn’t mean the Tecnis Symfony® lens is a bad choice, however, as proponents, according to the Better Vision Guide, believe they often see an increase in side effects.
According to MillennialEye.com, this IOL diffracts light in a way that is able to allow an extended range of focus, rather than focusing on light at distinct points. Rather than producing two distinct focal points, this lens is geared more toward elongating the eye’s focus, creating a more continuous spectrum of sharp vision from a distance to near point points. This, in turn, as it is not focused on the two distinct points, glares and halos, a common side effect among IOLs, may not be as noticeable.
The risks involved
As with any cataract surgery, not related to the lens, can include temporary, minor or affect the patient’s vision. Other complications, albeit rare, can include bleeding, an infection and/or the worsening of vision, while a slight loss in vision sharpness may be noticed as you decrease the usage of your eyeglasses. Even with glasses, patients may notice a loss of sharpness during poor visibility conditions such as fog or dim light, leading to driving difficulties. Some patients also report seeing glare, starbursts and/or related visual symptoms, impacting some patients when there are bright lights at night.
Tips to know
Being relatively new technology, there’s not a lot of information on the Internet; however, this Patient.info forum thread has close to 200 replies for those who have experienced and/or had them implanted.
The lens, today, is approved in more than 50 countries around the world, with data coming from over 2,000 eyes from multiple clinical studies. In these studies, patients reported seeing objects clearly and sharply at near distances, immediate and far away, and all points in between. Other reports included providing a higher-quality vision and demonstrating a low chance of viewing halos and/or glares, a common side effect seen among IOLs on the market.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral Wedding Cost
The St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a Catholic church located in New York, New York, right across the street from the Rockefeller Center, was built in 1858, opening years later in 1879.
Today, as the prominent landmark of New York City, eligible couples do have the opportunity to get married here.
Wedding at St. Patrick’s Cathedral cost
The cost to get married at the St. Patrick’s Cathedral, if accepted, is said to be $2,000 — a “donation” which will include a time slot for your wedding as well as the wedding singer and organist. Of course, being a donation, you can offer much more if you wish.
Tips to know
According to the official website of the church, the initial interview to have a wedding held at the church should be done at least one year prior to your wedding date. To begin the process, you can do so by contacting the priest on duty by following this link, but one source said you do not have to belong to the parish to get married, but you need to live in a certain area to be considered. AMNY states you need to be a parishioner living in the Archdiocese of New York and the same can be said about baptisms.
Tourists can and will be at the church during the day of your wedding, but according to one member on this Weddingbee.com thread, they remained quiet and even clapped at the end of her ceremony.
Multiple reports online, even though not confirmed with the church, claims you have to hire the organist and singer; there are no exceptions.
Those who did get married here said you cannot get photos in front of the cathedral on the day of the wedding and no receiving line is allowed as the entrance cannot be blocked.
The priest who handles your wedding will give you a little booklet telling you exactly what you can and cannot do on the day of your wedding. Some items not allowed, as per this source, said no throwing flowers, no runners, no outside microphones because it can interfere with the church, but flowers are allowed with some exceptions such as having to leave the flowers there after leaving. Be sure to read this booklet in detail to know the do’s and don’ts.
AMNY.com notes the cathedral keeps detail records of everyone who says “I do” within its walls.
Raindrop Eye Surgery Cost
The Raindrop® near vision inlay recently received FDA approval, making it the second corneal inlay to receive it, according to the Better Vision Guide.
Designed to improve vision loss due to Presbyopia, the inlay, when implanted beneath the surface of your eye, will reshape your cornea to help you focus and correct your vision.
How much does Raindrop® eye surgery cost?
The costs of the Raindrop® near vision inlays will depend on the doctor you choose and your geographical location. From what we researched online, the cost of the entire procedure, without any insurance coverage, will be about $4,000 to $5,500. In most cases, your health insurance will not cover the procedure as it’s deemed cosmetic, but it does not hurt to confirm this statement. As of 2018, it does appear the company has gone of business.
According to this NBC News article, they note the biggest downside to this type of inlays are the costs — around $4,000 to $5,000, with Medicare or private health insurance companies covering it.
This WTOP.com article, in its interview with Dr. Mark Whitten of Whitten Laser Eye, said the Raindrop Inlay costs about $4,000.
What is the Raindrop® near vision inlay?
According to Better Vision Guide, the Raindrop® near vision inlay was developed by Revision Optics and is a microscopic hydrogel device made up of 80 percent water and is smaller than that of a needle. This inlay is inserted into the non-dominant eye to help treat presbyopia and is recommended for patients who have good distance vision between the ages of 41 and 65 but has trouble reading things up close.
The inlay, essentially, works by reshaping the cornea in order to help you focus and correct your vision. When implanted, the inlay allows for more effective fluid and nutrient diffusion via the cornea, and because of the microscopic hydrogel, it makes it similar to a natural cornea.
The procedure
The entire procedure is very simple and is almost always performed in an outpatient center. Before the procedure begins, your surgeon will first administer numbing eye drops to help avoid any discomfort.
During the procedure, your surgeon will guide a laser to create a small flap on your cornea, and after the flap is created, the Raindrop® inlay is implanted beneath the flap, reshaping the curvature of your cornea. When the inlay is safely in place, the incision is smoothed over and the procedure completes
The entire procedure, according to the LaserVue Eye Center, will take about a total of 10 minutes and no stitches will be required
Recovery
Most people are able to resume normal activities within 24 to 48 hours, but your results will vary. Generally, your eyes will need to adjust as your brain gets used to the inlays, and because of this, you may notice vision fluctuation over the weeks after the surgery completes. After the procedure, your doctor will prescribe medicated eye drops and should be administered as prescribed to help with the recovery.
Tips to know
If you had a cataract surgery in the past, then you will not be considered a candidate for the surgery. The same can be said who suffer from dry eyes or those with a corneal disease that makes the cornea abnormally thin or cone-shaped. There may be other factors that could not make you a great candidate, but to be for certain, it’s highly advisable you schedule a consultation with a local ophthalmologist who works with these inlays.
Over two years, a clinical trial, including 373 people, were evaluated after using the inlays for two years. Of the 373 participants, 92 percent saw 20/40 vision or better.
Side effects, as with any inlays or surgeries, can exist, including glares or halos in your vision or the feeling as if something was inside of your eye. Corneal swelling, scarring or clouding can occur, with the risk of a diminished distance vision or even retinal detachment. The FDA does note the risks are rare and the procedure is considered to be safe at this time.
The Raindrop inlay is similar to the Kamra inlay in some ways, but the Raindrop inlay differs in a way that the inlay makes a microscopic hill or bump in the cornea, increasing your depth of focus, while the Kamra inlay makes the pupil smaller like a pinhole and has to be perfectly aligned with lasers.
