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How to select the best

We got you covered
HOSPITAL
E mergency health care is
no time to choose a hos-
pital. You’ll be transport-
You will have to balance
convenience with your person-
al circumstances.
Awards and other certifica-
tions indicate that a hospital
offers consistent care. The
from A to Z.
ed to the nearest facility suited Magnet program recognizes
Doctor Privileges
ATHLETIC TRAINING
to your particular illness. excellence in nursing care and
Your preferred doctor
But if you require lon- other aspects of hospital work.
should have privileges at the
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
ger-term care, you’ll want a Not all hospitals are Magnet
facility you choose. Physicians
hospital of your own choosing certified. In fact, this award
send patients to specific hos-
CARDIOLOGY
— ideally a modern campus is only given to a select few
pitals because it is convenient
stocked with the best technol- facilities in the country.
for them. They are familiar
ogy and staffed by the most
EMERGENCY CARE
Hospitals often have several
with the site and can use the
qualified personnel. So taking areas in which they specialize.
equipment there. Check with
time to look at different facil-
ENDOCRINOLOGY
For example, two hospitals in
your doctor about where he
ities in your area today, before the same city may offer care,
can work.
you need the help, can aid you but one specializes in gastroen-
when you most need help.
Insurance carriers will pay
some of the cost of services
terology, while another has an HEMATOLOGY
Here are some factors that advanced cardiac unit.
can help you choose the best
from a preferred provider,
including hospitals. Verify
Choosing the right hospital ICU
hospital in your city. for your procedure will ensure
Location
which hospitals are in your
carrier’s network. If you choose
you receive the highest level OBSTETRICS
of care. In fact, some hospitals
Location will play a large
role in your choice. The hos-
a facility that is not covered by
your policy, you run the risk of
will transfer patients to another ONCOLOGY
facility if it has better equip-
pital should be close to your
home or workplace.
incurring significant charges.
ment and specialists. ORTHOPAEDICS
Accreditation and Determining the highest
Some people will only have
one hospital in their area.
Certifications quality hospital for your condi- PEDIATRICS
Another consideration is tion will help you achieve the
Choosing a facility that’s out
of the way will not only add
what other features a hospital best outcome during instances PODIATRY
may offer. For example, a of illness or injury. Since
to travel time, it is simply not
practical. After all, when an
hospital may be accredited hospitals offer a variety of care PULMONOLOGY
with the Joint Commission, an and service types, be sure to
emergency happens, you will
need to get to qualified person-
organization that verifies spe- analyze all the options before REHAB SERVICES
cific standards of care within you decide.
nel as soon as possible.
But if you have a medical
medical facilities. By knowing the facts and SLEEP MEDICINE
Accreditation means that keeping your own priorities
condition and an alternative
facility farther away specializes
they are passing frequent in mind, you will make a wise SPORTS MEDICINE
performance reviews. You can choice when selecting the hos-
in it, that hospital might be a
good choice.
be confident you are receiving pital that is best for you. SURGICAL SERVICES
quality care.
WOMEN’S HEALTH
WOUND CARE

an affiliate of Ascension St. Vincent

812-254-2760 dchosp.org
How to choose an OB/GYN
I f you have a baby on the way,
or you’re planning a pregnan-
cy in the near future, one of
your most important choices is
choosing a quality, competent
obstetrician/gynecologist, or
OB-GYN.
Pregnancy is a magical and
life changing event, but it can
also be stressful as you make
plans for your new addition’s
birth. But by choosing the right insurance plan.
care providers and having a
thorough pregnancy plan, you
can avoid a great deal of unnec- on your particular policy. Some not be the one who care for you
essary and unhealthy stress.
These care providers will
guide you from the first days
of your pregnancy until your
child’s birth. They’ll also followunless you’re willing to pay
up after birth to make sure that
mom is happy and healthy.
Here are some consider-
ations for selecting expert care
providers.
Get recommendations
Chances are you have any
friends, family members or
co-workers with growing fami-
lies. They’ll usually be happy to Birth location
share their experiences with you
and recommend an OB-GYN
for you to use — or one to
avoid.
Experience and training are
obviously the most important
aspects of choosing any medical OB-GYN is authorized to work should come together to make
professional, but personal
references can give you other
insights, too. The doctor should admitting privileges to just one lots of questions and picking a
have a personality and bedside
manner that makes you feel
comfortable asking questions,
and they should be able to
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communicate with you clearly
and completely.
Getting these insights from
new mothers will help you
know what to expect from dif-
ferent OB-GYNs in your area.
Check your insurance
Another important consid-
eration is which doctors and
hospitals are covered by your
Your ability to shop for doc-
tors will vary widely depending your baby, for example, may
insurance plans have a large
network of OB-GYNs to pick
from, but others may only give your OB-GYN will be the one
you one or two local choices
higher — and in some cases,
dramatically higher — out-of-
network fees to pick a different the OB-GYN’s practice is. For
doctor.
For most people, choosing
an in-network provider is
critical, so check with your
insurance company early in the you choose an individual prac-
process.
For some expecting mothers,
the location of their birth is
a major consideration. If you
have a particular hospital or
birthing center in mind for
your delivery, make sure your
there.
Most obstetricians have
hospital, so picking your OB-
GYN means you’ll be choosing
the place you’ll be giving birth,
too. Look carefully into the
huge
on all
399
$
services your doctor’s hospital
provides to make sure it meets
your expectations.
The delivery
Because every delivery is
different — often happening at
unexpected times and occasion-
ally with complications that
can’t be predicted — it’s hard
to know what your delivery will
be like with any precision.
The OB-GYN who delivers
during the pregnancy. There’s
no way of knowing whether
on call when you go into labor.
That’s an important question
to ask, though, and the answer
will often depend on how large
a small practice, with only one
or two doctors, you’ll be very
likely to know the doctor who
delivers your baby. But even if
titioner who typically person-
ally attends your delivery, ask
about their backup plan if they
happen to be sick, on vacation
or busy with another patient
in labor at the same time your
baby is coming. You should
know what to expect.
In the end, all these factors
you comfortable and happy
about your decision. Asking
great OB-GYN will help make
sure you have a happy and
healthy childbirth experience.
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Dustin Blackwell, DO, wanted to be a physician ever since
he was a child. “My desire to be a physician stems from an
aspiration to not only treat patients and make them well,
but to have ability to teach patients about their health,” he
said. Wanting to be a part of a rural, close knit community,
Dr. Blackwell decided to practice at Good Samaritan. This,
in addition to the state-of-the-art hospital, and friendly and
welcoming staff, made the choice of practicing at Good
Samaritan an easy one. Dr. Blackwell and his
wife, Courtney, reside in Vincennes with
their two children, Adalyn (Addie) and
Gavin. In his free time, he enjoys being
with his family and getting outdoors to
run, bike, swim, hike and golf.
Now accepting
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700 Willow Street
Vincennes, IN 47591
812-882-1000
How to choose a
FURNITURE STORE
W hether you’re in need
of furnishing an an
entire room or home
or just replacing a piece that
has seen better days, choosing
much information as possible
about the frame, materials, and
what kind of warranty it comes
with.
A well-trained staff can in-
Inquire about return policies.
Some furniture stores will allow
you to exchange an item within
a certain time limit if it doesn’t
meet your expectations. Learn
new furniture is a decision that form you about their furniture, what fees are involved if you
involves quality, style and, not how they’re built and why the have to return an item — if
least, comfort. construction matters. The best that is allowed at all.
You see and use the furniture stores have employees who As well, ask about the store’s
in your home every day, so you act as guides and teachers, not delivery policy, including how
want to be sure that it suits
your taste and is both comfort-
pushy salespeople. much it costs, how far they’ll
deliver and how quickly your
able and quality built. One way
Value, Not Just Price
It is best to pay more for a
furniture will arrive.
to ensure that you’ll pick the If you are comparison shop-
quality piece than to try to save
best furniture for your home ping, factor the delivery cost
money on something that will
is to select a good furniture
retailer.
not last in the long term. The
when considering different
stores. A low-priced couch will
Here are some things to look
bigger the investment, the more
important the design and build
not save you money if it comes
for in a quality furniture store. with an expensive delivery
quality become.
Quality that Lasts fee. It may be worth it to pay
Concentrate on finding the
Look for a store that sells a little more for the couch if
best value. An inexpensive sofa
free or reduced cost delivery is
quality, long-lasting furniture. will not be a good value if it
While inexpensive accesso- available.
is built with cheap and weak
ries can be bought cheaply and materials. Likewise, the most The bottom line is that there
changed often, big furniture are only two things that mat-
expensive love seat will not be a
investments — sofas, dining ter: the quality of the furniture
wise investment if the frame is
tables, and the like — need to you are purchasing, and the
not built solidly.
be purchased for the long term. level of service you receive.
It’s best to look for brands
Once you discover them both,
That means putting solid with a long track record and
construction before a pretty furniture shopping can be a
good reputation.
style. fun experience that that will
Solid construction isn’t al-
Service and Delivery beautify your home for many
Every store has a different years. And you can be happy
ways apparent at first glance. It
customer service policy. Choose and comfortable with the fur-
should feel solid, not flimsy, of
a store that is well known for niture for generations to come.
course. Beyond that, find out as
being loyal to its customers.
Selecting an
INSURANCE Providing Protection
AGENT is what we do best.
I nsurance protects your
valuables — your home,
auto and other assets — and
to determine who has the most
satisfied clients. Are they easy
to work with? Have there been

•Auto •Home •Life

brings peace of mind in the any problems with collecting
event of a disaster, theft or on a policy?
other unexpected event. So Also, check that any pro-
selecting the right insurance spective agent has all necessary
agent for your needs is one of
the most important decisions
you can make.
Unfortunately, not every
licenses and training.
Interviews
After narrowing your list of
•Medicare Supplement
•Business
agent is the reliable, reputable prospective agents, make an
agent professional you’d hope. appointment to visit each one.
It’s important to make sure you Prepare a list of questions and
vet your agent prior to opting concerns about your personal
into the coverage they offer. situation. Take notes during
An experienced agent can your meeting. Remember that
walk you through various you must feel comfortable with
options, keeping in mind your the answers before purchasing
budget and lifestyle. Your a policy.
financial future depends on If an agent tries to pressure
finding the right person to help you into making a decision
you get insurance that will fit right away, inform him that
your needs. you need more time and can-
not sign anything immediately.
Ask for Referrals The right agent will let you
Family, friends and col- take as much time as you need
leagues have likely worked with to understand the implications
insurance agents in the past. of each policy. They will give
Ask people you trust for refer- you useful information and not
rals. If you receive a recommen- subject you to high-pressure
dation, it is because that person sales techniques.
has had a positive experience. Your agent should be avail- Terri Kelso
There is a strong likelihood that able. The relationship doesn’t OWNER
you will have similar results. end once the sale is complet-
Good agents understand that ed. Your dialogue should be terrikelso@att.net
offering great service will keep continuous. The best agents are
them in business. Their careers available in the event you have
depend on word-of-mouth. If to file a claim.
you are happy with the service Agents who have been in
you receive, your insurance business for many years likely
agent will appreciate your have a good reputation and
willingness to send business track record. They understand
their way. the policies and will even take Best Insurance Agent Best Insurance Agency
Research extra care that you are properly
If you do not have recom- protected.
mendations, begin researching It is essential that you choose
your options. Begin by looking the right type and amount of
at local companies and brokers. insurance to adequately protect
As you conduct your research, yourself and your financial
Washington Loogootee
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be thorough and critical. future. The policy should be
Buying a policy is similar to tailored to fit your specific
purchasing a new car or home. needs.

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It truly is that important. A seasoned, skilled insurance
Select a company that is agent will be an invaluable
highly regarded by consumers. resource for safeguarding your
Read reviews of each company future.

When to consider
FUNERAL PREPLANNING
C oping with the death
of someone you love is
not easy. Dealing with
a sudden, unexpected death
of a beloved friend or family
member can be extra difficult,
especially for those people who
have to make important finan-
cial decisions while grieving.
To remove the burden and
stress associated with funeral
be like and how they want to
fund those services. Men and
women trusted to make those
decisions upon the death of a
loved one will need to make
those decisions more quickly
and likely won’t be in the
correct frame of mind to make
decisions that will honor their
loved one’s legacy.
Your wishes honored
already paid for can provide
additional peace of mind.
Instead of worrying that
their relatives will be forced to
handle the burden of financ-
ing their funerals, men and
women who preplan can rest
easy knowing their insurance
money and life’s savings will be
going to their surviving loved
ones and not toward paying for

Funeral Preplanning
planning, many adults preplan funeral expenses.
Men and women who
their funerals.
Adults can be as specific
formalize their funeral plans Protection
will ensure their wishes are Preplanning protects families
as they prefer to be when
honored. faced with sudden death.
preplanning their funerals, and
for Peace of Mind doing so gives loved ones peace
That can give you peace of
mind and will provide peace
Few people want to think
about their deaths, and fewer
of mind knowing that their
of mind to the loved ones they still want to think about dying
Funeral pre-planning will
relatives’ funeral services were
leave behind, who can attend suddenly and/or dying young.
conducted in accordance to
funeral services knowing those Preplanning a funeral and
their own wishes.
save your loved ones the Preplanning a funeral may
sound morbid, as few people
services are being conducted in
adherence to their loved one’s
setting money aside early can
protect and help families faced
wishes. with sudden deaths. That can
stress and expense of making want to think about their
deaths or discuss dying with
Even men and women who
discuss their wishes for their
be especially important for
young parents, who won’t
important decisions in their their families. However, there
are numerous benefits to pre-
funerals with loved ones may
not have those wishes honored
want to leave their spouses and
children financially destitute
planning funerals.
time of grief. Call today Time for making
if they are not put in writing.
Cost control
should they suddenly pass
away.
decisions Preplanning a funeral may
for more information or to Preplanning provides time to
make the best decisions.
Preplanning can help control
costs. Preplanning often in-
not be something to look
forward to, but doing so can
arrange your preplanning Men and women who pre-
plan their funerals have ample
cludes men and women setting
aside money for their funerals
protect families and provide
men and women with some
before they pass away.
consultation, and ensure your time to decide just what they
want their memorial services to
Knowing that a funeral,
which can be expensive, is
peace of mind.

final arrangements are carried

out according to your wishes.

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How to choose a FLORIST
F resh flowers brighten any
room and are the go-to
gift or centerpiece for
a housewarming, wedding,
dinner, date or party.
Whether you’re selecting just
them in a notebook. Put a note
about why you like these partic-
ular flowers.
Once you have a list of
florists who are available, visit
their shops and interview them.
Most florists have a scrap-
book of their previous work.
Each professional brings a
sense of personal style to her
arrangements.
Be sure to show the florist
Eastside Flowers and Gifts
Locally Owned
a few or an entire arrangement,
flowers creates a happy and
Interview the Florist your notebook. Discuss the ar-
rangements you prefer. Perhaps
Professionals Helping You With Your
celebratory atmosphere.
A professional florist will
Observe the shop when you
get there. Are the pathways
the florist could produce similar
arrangements.
Flower and Gift Needs for all Occasions
clear of plants, tools and debris?
know how to make the colors, If you are holding a large
Is the staff friendly and warm?
types of flowers and even scent event, the florist might have
The answers to these questions
work for your occasion. recommendations about other
will help you understand each
event professionals.
Research the Florist shop’s level of customer service
Once you have chosen your
If you are purchasing a floral and care they give to their
florist, be certain to confirm the
arrangement for an event, ask products.
type of arrangements you will
the venue staff for recommen- All plants and flowers should
receive.
dations. They are often familiar be well-maintained and at-
You should also know when
with the best florists in the area. tractively arranged. Employees
the arrangements will arrive at
Popular florists are usually quite should be attentive. The best
the venue and who is respon-
busy year-round, so begin the florists have a wide range of
sible for placing the flowers in
process right away. options in their showroom.
the appropriate spots. Confirm
Family and friends may also During the interview, ask
when payment is expected.
have suggestions. Be sure to ask if the florist has previously
Understand the floral contract
them for their experiences, as worked at your venue. Each
before signing anything. Designers, Pam Mangin Seasonal Gifts & Decor
well as how much they paid for facility has unique rules about
the services. what they will allow in their Get it in Writing and Linda Ruppel
Call each florist to check location. If the florist has When you are pleased with
their availability. If a florist is worked at the venue, that is a a company’s work, you might
unavailable, scratch them off big advantage. They will know assist the shop with providing
your list. and can adhere to the rules. positive references and reviews.
Meanwhile, determine your Inform the florist of your A professional florist will
flower budget. It will be a budget and ask for recommen- help you go a long way toward
factor in your decision-making dations. The florist should be establishing the right environ-
process. able to give you numerous ment for your event. The vivid
Also, look for floral arrange- suggestions about flower colors and pleasant aroma will
ments in magazines. Clip out arrangements. convey the right feeling for
your favorite photos and put your special day.

Fresh & Silk Arrangements Carson’s Lanterns, Willow Tree

& Memory Candles

Specialized Funeral In Memory & Sympathy Gifts

Arrangements & Casket Sprays
107 E. Main St. • Washington, IN
812-642-5002
eastsideflowersandgifts.com
Mon. thru Fri. 9am-5:30pm; Sat. 9am-1pm; Sun. Closed

How to choose a UROLOGIST

Urologists are medical
specialists who treat diseases,
infections and issues dealing
with the urinary tract system
and reproductive organs. If you
are experiencing pain urinating,
it’s usually a sign of infection or
possibly an underlying disease.
While many general physi-
cians can also diagnose these
problems, more complicated
issues such as kidney stones or
bladder cancer will often be
referred to urologists.
When looking for a urolo-
gist, here are some things to
keep in mind:
Ask Around
Check with other physicians,
including your primary doctor.
They will likely have recom-
mendations for solid, quality
care.
Also, inquire with close
friends or family members
whom they have used. People
don’t often like to talk about
medical problems involving
this area of the body. However,
these issues are actually prev-
alent, so it’s likely you know
people who have had similar
issues. They should be glad to
give you a reference.
Searching online will also
help. Reviews from other
patients can help guide your
decisions. Though you should
be aware that anonymous
reviews can be faked and rarely
tell an entire story.
Check Credentials
Your state’s medical board
will have names of urologists
in your area. They will be able
to confirm a professional’s cre-
dential along with his history.
It is important to know if the
urologist has faced previous
sanctions.
Another resource is the
American Board of Medical
Specialties. This organization
can tell you if the urologist is
board certified. They have a
website (http://Certification-
Matters.org) for patients to
search for local specialists.
Other Considerations
Experience their practice for
yourself. Take note of how the
office staff treats you. Are they
polite? Do they contact you
promptly and make you feel
comfortable?
The location of the office
is another factor. Will you be
continuing treatment? If you
need to go back for follow-ups,
you will want an office that is
convenient. Check the office
hours to make sure they will fit
with your schedule.
Your potential urologist
should be able to answer all of
your questions. Does he or she
have a good bedside manner?
Research will give you peace
of mind.
Finding the right urologist
will give you freedom of pain.
 How to choose a
SURGICAL ONCOLOGIST
300 NE 14th Street | Washington, IN G etting a cancer diagno-
sis can be a life-altering
experience.
Choosing the right specialist
to treat it can give you peace
of mind, though, as you
go through the process of
At Daviess Community Hospital, we diagnosing and fighting this
serious disease.
Experience
One thing to find out
is what types of cancer the
surgeon has the most experi-
ferent hospitals have different
levels of technology and
equipment. You will want to
have the procedure done at a
hospital that is equipped to fit
ence treating. On your initial
consultation, you can ask your needs.
how often they perform your If you prefer to have the
procedure or work with your
type of cancer.
surgery performed at a partic-
ular hospital, check to make

focus on patient care from start to finish. If your cancer treatment

requires surgery, a surgical
oncologist has the training and
From cancer diagnosis, oncology surgery
skills to remove tumors. Not
all surgical oncologists are the
to chemotherapy, our same, though.
Here are some things to
In general, the more com-
plex your surgery will be, the
sure the surgeon is approved
to operate at the facility. Also
check with your insurance
more specialized your surgeon’s
training and practice should company to verify that not
be. It’s common sense that do- just the surgeon, but also the
ing something frequently can
keep skills at their sharpest.
hospital where the surgery
takes place, will be covered at

patients will receive

keep in mind when choosing
one.
comprehensive
Training and licensing
Surgical oncologists go
through some of the longest
medical and and most intense training in
the medical profession. Their
surgical specific field of study and
their most common areas of
practice can help you find out
oncology in one whether they would be a good
fit in your situation.
location. Start by checking with your
state’s medical board. Most
states have a database that lists
physicians currently licensed
to practice in your area. You
Jack Rostas III, MD, MPH can sometimes find more de-
Board-Certified General Surgeon tailed information, such as any
specialty board certifications
Board-Certified Surgical Oncologist they hold and where they went
AHPBA Hepatopancreatobiliary to medical school.
Surgeon Other doctors can help you
make a good decision, too.
You can ask your primary
care physician or a general
oncologist who they would
Even within the surgical
oncology specialty, there are
a variety of sub-specialties
that come with their own
very specific skill sets and
training. Some surgeons may
have expertise specifically in
colorectal surgery, gastrointes-
tinal surgery or head and neck
surgery, for example. Find-
ing one whose background
matches your medical needs is
important.
Insurance coverage
Surgical procedures can be
extremely expensive, so it’s
important to consider your
insurance coverage in the
decision-making process.
Check with your insurance
company about which surgical
oncologists are in-network.
If you’re on Medicare or
Medicaid, find out whether
the surgeon accepts those pay-
ments and what your financial
responsibility will be.
the level you’re expecting.
Communication style
The best medical profes-
sionals aren’t just incredibly
skilled and experienced in
their corner of the medical-sci-
ence world. They’re also good
communicators.
A potentially complex
procedure like surgery to
remove a tumor can have a
variety of possible outcomes,
and a good surgeon will be
able to clearly explain what
you can expect. They’ll also
let you know the steps to take
after the procedure to have the
best recovery, which will likely
include pain medications and
limits on your physical activity
for a period of time.
Finding a surgical oncol-
ogist who has not only the
right education and experience
to do the job, but also the
bedside manner to commu-
nicate clearly and thoroughly,

Self-referrals Accepted. recommend for your proce-

dure and why.
Hospital privileges
Surgeons must be allowed
will give you peace of mind
when undergoing any kind of
surgical procedure.
to operate in facilities. Dif-
Call 812.254.8856 to schedule an appointment.
Monday - Thursday: 8 am to 5 pm

an affiliate of Ascension St. Vincent

dchosp.org

Methods for choosing the

right DENTIST
F ew elements of our person-
al health say more about
us than the quality of our
teeth. We’re taught from a very
young age that caring for our
teeth will save us a lifetime of
pain and costly procedures —
and that’s very true. So choosing
a dental professional you can
trust, along with scheduling
regular care and cleaning can
result in just that — a lifetime of
beautiful, healthy teeth.
If you don’t already have a
regular dentist, choosing the
right dental health profes-
sional is essential to helping
you maintain your health and
appearance in addition to
helping you avoid nasty dental
problems down the road.
No one wants to have a root
canal redone because of shoddy
work.
Find a dentist who makes
you feel comfortable and
explains every procedure in an
understandable way, and you’ll
be in good hands.
Finding a dentist near your
home or workplace will help
you make your appointments
on time. When searching for
a dentist, make sure the office
hours work for your schedule.
So how should you start your
search?
Ask around
First, ask your social network
for recommendations. Friends,
family and colleagues can be a
great resource.
Searching on the Internet
for dental offices in your area
offices might be able to see you
right away, while others may
have a three-week wait time.
Your prospective dentist
will also help. Professionals should accept your dental
often have their own websites, insurance. If don’t have dental
which include the backgrounds insurance, inquire about pay-
of those working there. The ment plans. The office should
website may also tell you about give you an estimate before
how they handle procedures performing any work.
and appointments, as well as
Office visit
specialized services they offer.
When someone meets all
Your local newspaper will
of your requirements, visit
likely have advertisements from
the office. The staff should be
local dentists. Oftentimes you
professional and friendly. Every
can find specials and discounts.
dentist should be willing to
Interview dentists answer all of your questions.
Once you have gathered a Some people are afraid of
list, begin calling each prospec- dentists or of pain. If you have
tive dentist. You can talk to a any concerns, communicate
receptionist or other staff per- with the staff and dentist.
son if the dentist is unavailable. Many professionals are willing
Check to make sure the to go above and beyond to help
dentist earned the necessary you work through these issues.
degree from a reputable school A basic oral health history
and is current on all licensing should be taken by the dentist
and continuing educational or staff. They should tell you
requirements. Ideally, he will be about future treatment and
familiar with the latest dental prevention options. A quality
technologies and trends. dentist will help you feel com-
Ask if the dental office pro- fortable during your visit.
vides emergency services. If you The best dentists offer friend-
break a tooth or need to have a ly, happy dental experiences.
root canal done right away, you Teeth are extremely import-
will want to use your chosen ant to your overall health. They
dentist. You don’t want to have can also help or hinder your
to search for a dentist when you appearance. Finding a good
are in pain. dentist is like finding a friend
Lead time for appointments who consistently brings out
is another consideration. Some your best smile.
How to choose and pick the best cardiologist
for you.
Also consider the cardiol-

CARDIAC CARE ogist’s specialty. Some car-

Because heart disease is the
No. 1 cause of deaths in the
United States, cardiologists oc-
cupy the front-line in treating
this life-giving organ.
Heart attacks are not
the only reason one would
encounter a cardiologist, but
they’re certainly among the
most prominent. Diseases of
the heart are numerous and
complicated, and treating them
is key to your cardiovascular
health.
As with any health issue,
prevention is paramount. A
cardiologist can also help you
take preventative care of your
heart by explaining what heart
troubles you are most risk of
developing and giving you a
plan to protect your bodies
busiest muscle.
If you’re looking for a cardi-
ologist, here are a few things to
keep in mind:
Referrals
Usually, a referral from your
primary care doctor is the first
step in visiting a cardiologist.
If you have a regular doctor,
they should have all the infor-
mation they need to recom-
mend the right heart specialist
depending on your concerns.
Your doctor will also make sure
that the cardiologist is apprised
of your medical history.
diologists become experts at
one particular procedure by
Word of mouth performing and perfecting it
Talk to your friends, family over many years. They’ll earn a
and colleagues about their reputation for being experts in
experiences with local cardiol-
that narrow field. Others will
ogists.
They’ll be able to tell you diagnose and treat a wide range
the good and bad things of heart problems and diseases.
they experienced from their Your personal heart health
cardiologist and can help give needs will determine the kind
you insights that can only come of cardiologist you should see.
from a first-person testimonial. Resources
This will be the best way to
Many cardiac procedures
learn whether the cardiologist
has a friendly staff and a good require regular visits to check
bedside manner. on the condition of your heart
over time. And the help and
Area of expertise support you get after any heart
What’s most important,
procedure is important.
however, is whether the cardi-
You may need to eat a
ologist has the right training,
healthier diet, get regular
qualifications and experience.
exercise, quit smoking or lose
Cardiologists must first be
weight to improve your heart
certified in internal medicine
health. These things can be
and then earn an additional
certification in cardiology prior aided through a support group
to practice following medical or specialized health program
school and residency. So, you’ll to keep your cardiac rehabilita-
want to be sure yours is board tion on track. Your cardiologist
certified. can help facilitate these services
The American Board of after your initial treatment and
Medical Specialties has set up a provide valuable resources to
website, CertificationMatters.
help you care for yourself.
org, where you can search to
see which board certifications a Your unique situation will
doctor holds. determine which cardiologists
A cardiologist will have dif- you choose. But getting the
ferent board certifications than right one is vital to ensuring
a cardiac surgeon. Your regular you enjoy your best heart
doctor can help you sort it out health for years to come.

How to choose a What is the news source’s

agenda? Is it to inform readers?
Promote a left- or right-leaning

NEWS SOURCE way of thinking? Sell a product?

Win an election? Make sure
you understand the agenda

R eliable news sources mat-
ter now more than ever.
In a time when everyone
shares opinions online, it’s
important to make sure those
opinions are well informed.
We need reliable news sources
to give us factual and generally
unbiased information.
Here are a few tips for find-
ing a trustworthy news source.
Credibility
Is the outlet credible? Check
the URL and make sure it’s not
passing itself off as a reliable
news source, when in reality
it’s not. Read the site’s “About
Us” section to learn the site’s
mission and ethics. Also,
good news sources will clearly
separate opinion columns from
news stories.
Information sources
Information sources are im-
portant. Sources tell us where
the information originated.
Journalists should clearly source
their information to back up
credibility and prove the infor-
mation is not the journalist’s
opinion. A good information
source will have knowledge,
training or first-hand experi-
ence on the topic.
Agenda
of the news source so you can
approach the information
accordingly. An unbiased news
source will separate news from
opinion, promote accuracy and
correct errors.
Local news
Local journalists and report-
ers live and work in the same
community as you. They are
familiar with the people and
stories that affect you daily.
Often, their lives overlap yours,
and you may share common
interests and concerns. They
know your school system,
business climate, communi-
ty figures, sports teams, and
weather. Local news sources
can give a voice to you and the
people who surround you.
No matter what sources
you choose to stay informed,
be sure to do your research.
A little homework will go a
long way toward preventing
misinformation.

How to choose a dealer for Find out about the installa-

tion services they use and the
dealer’s reliability. Do they use
in-company groups or outside Your dealer should also be
contractors? Also, find out about friendly, and the showroom
prices and warranty coverage. should be inviting.

all your FLOORING

C hoosing new or re-
placement flooring will
change the look, feel
and value of your home.
It’s an important decision
and there are plenty of great
options, including carpet,
vinyl plank flooring, ceramic
tile and porcelain tile.
You will need guidance on
which brands and types are
durable and low maintenance,
as well as what material best
fits your needs and lifestyle.
This is where a good dealer
can help you determine which
flooring is best for you.
Here are some things to
consider as you shop for
flooring.
When picking the best
STYLE AND QUALITY!
track record of excellent cus-
tomer service. Spending extra
money is worth purchasing a
product from a flooring dealer
Most flooring can be
installed in about a day, but
ceramic and porcelain tile
installations require about two We’ve got you covered!
you can trust. days. When doing an entire
Carpeting: you’ll want a house, plan for more than two
long-lasting, easy-to-main-
tain carpet, and the new
days. Flooring, Carpet, Tile,
Installers: ideally, choose a
carpets are higher quality and
very easy to care for. Smart
dealer with in-house install- Vinyl, Hardwoods, We take your
ers who are considered to be
Strand is a good choice, and
almost all carpeting has pet
second-to-none. These are Backsplashes, & Flooring from
experts who know how to Beginning to End!
protection built-in (for easier
cleaning). You’ll want to talk
do the work thoroughly and Showers
effectively.
with the experts at your dealer
You also want to keep in Our re
about what locations would be
mind the entire interior of lers a Daily Specials on In-Stock Flooring
best for carpet (living rooms,
your home, and choose a In al o None!
st
d T - Large Selection of Remnants
bedrooms).
flooring dealer with interior Secon
Vinyl Plank Flooring: 100
percent waterproof makes for decorating capabilities as well.
a very easy choice in floor- This enables the installation
to harmonize with existing

flooring and respective dealer,
try not to be overly frugal. You
must think about longevity.
Your budget may be tight, but
you must get the best value
possible.
So be sure to look at addi-
tional support and services.
Find a quality dealer with
a great reputation and long
ing. You can choose this for
the bath, utility rooms, entry
ways, as well as the whole
house, and many people do so
(due to allergies, or high-traf-
fic areas).
Ceramic and Porcelain
Tile: for kitchens, showers,
back splashes, and more and
more, the whole house.
Lincoln Trail
decor.
After making a list of
potential dealers, give each of
them a call. Inquire about the Decorating Center
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How to choose a MATTRESS the pillow-top adds to their
extra thickness.
• Coil spring construction are
chambers. It is an ideal
choice for partners who need
to have different mattress

B
uying a new mattress
is no longer a one-stop
proposition for many.
The mattress industry has
boomed with the introduction
of memory foam, sensor-ac-
tivated comfort control and
firms that sell quality products
online.
It is estimated that we sleep
a third of our lives away, so a
comfortable mattress is key
to comfort and eliminating
sleep deprivation. When you
think about that, a new, quality
mattress that provides you with
a restful night’s sleep is well
worth the price.
You shouldn’t lose sleep over
shopping for a new mattress,
either. Sure, the number of
options can be as daunting as
the wild range of prices in a
mattress store. But selecting the
right mattress for your needs at
the right price really is pretty
simple.
Ask your friends and family
for recommendations, and then
start browsing. Or you can
scour the Internet for informa-
tion and start narrowing your
choices.
Purchasing a mattress is a
long-term investment in your
health and self-esteem. Don’t
be afraid of looking at pricier
options. Often, expensive mat-
tresses may be on sale or part
of a closeout event. Quality
mattresses last longer, so you
will not have to go through the
trouble of buying another mat-
tress in a year or two. Or worry
as much about the mattress
sagging and breaking down.
Consider your bed size. Is it
time to buy a bigger bed? Per-
haps you would like to sprawl
out and relax.
Here are a few other things
to keep in mind:
• Do you need a firm or soft
mattress? People with a bad
back, neck or leg pain, or
other circulatory problems
might require firm support
to keep their spines aligned.
Other people prefer flexible
support that fits the contours
of their bodies.
• Do you sleep with another
person? Mattresses made
of memory foam might be
beneficial, as it will give you
a personalized experience
without disturbing the other
person’s sleep.
• Standard mattresses can
exacerbate allergies if you
are sensitive to lint, cotton,
dust or dust mites. If you or
your partner have allergies,
• ”Memory” or high-density
consider getting a latex, foam
or water mattress. You might
also think about getting
a hypoallergenic mattress
cover.
When you are looking at
actual mattress options, the
following are popular choices:
• Pillow-top mattresses are
• Adjustable air mattress-
famous for their softness;
however, they do have levels
of firmness. They also require
a larger bottom sheet because
great choices for people who
want a firm mattress. This
option has the ability to keep
your spine aligned. Most
mattress stores can show
you samples of their product
lines. Choose the best con-
struction you can afford.
foam or latex mattress are
helpful if you have physical
issues, such as skeletal pain
or circulatory problems.
This mattress conforms to
the shape of the body. It also
minimizes pressure points
from the head, shoulders and
hips.
es allow each person to
change the firmness through
electronic and mechanical
devices that control air
preferences. You can also
alter firmness for yourself,
depending on your physical
condition.
When shopping for a
mattress, don’t be afraid of
lying down and trying it out.
Roll over and pay attention to
how your body feels. Are you
comfortable?
Inquire about the mattress
guarantee or warranty. A stan-
dard warranty is 10 years. If the
warranty is shorter or non-exis-
tent, look elsewhere.
Remember, your mattress is a
long-term investment. Choose
wisely and you will be rewarded
with years of restful nights and
energetic days.

“Where Quality Is Affordable!”

744 S. State Rd. 57, Washington, IN 47501 • 812-254-2390
Monday thru Friday 8 A.M. - 5 P.M.
Saturday 9 A.M. - 2 P.M., Sunday Closed

•Locally owned and operated

•Delivery available
•Financing available
•Large selection of Mattresses, Furniture,
and Appliances including manufacturers

1725 N. 6th St. Vincennes IN 47591

812-291-5665
Monday thru Friday 9 A.M. - 5 P.M.
Saturday 9 A.M. - 2 P.M., Sunday Closed

NEW LOCATION NOW OPEN

•Specializing in Mattresses and
Living Room Furniture
•Over 25 styles of mattresses to choose from
•Large selection of Recliners, lift chairs, sofas,
sectionals with special order options
•Financing available
•Mattresses made in Jeffersonville, Indiana
Finding a good
APPLIANCE STORE
W hether it’s a broken or
failing appliance or
the appeal of a newer
appliance — its features, design
and convenience — purchas-
ing large appliances is one of
the larger investments you’ll
confront.
Chances are you’ve already
done some research or quizzed
friends or family about their
own experiences with various
appliances, but shopping for
one can be daunting. But it can
also be fun.
These days appliance man-
ufacturers produce items that
have every conceivable feature
to make your life easier. Explor-
ing these innovations in home
appliance technology can be
an enjoyable and eye-opening
experience.
We’ve put together some
tips that can help you narrow
your search and find exactly
what you need. But first you’ll
have to determine your budget
and requirements — what you
need, what you want and what
you’re willing to pay for it.
Now, it’s time to go shop-
ping.
Shopping online
First, do an internet search
for appliance stores in your
area. Local stores are easier to
work with and you will likely
be able to get your appliance
much quicker than if you had
to go out of the area or order it.
If your refrigerator has stopped
working, this is especially im-
portant. Many appliance stores
also offer free delivery in the
local area.
You can get a good idea of
the services offered by various
companies via business review
sites. Don’t dismiss negative
reviews, but keep in mind that
customers who have good expe-
riences are less likely to crow on
the internet.
Consumer Reports (www.
consumerreports.org) and
the Better Business Bureau
(www.BBB.org) are also great
resources for finding reputable
businesses. To qualify for listing
on the Better Business Bureau
site, the business must be reli-
able and honest.
Many stores also have review
sections for customers to
leave comments, reviews and
ratings for the services and the
products they sell, which can
give you some insight into the
business and their products.
Advertisements
For most of us, getting a
good deal is probably a top
concern when shopping for
appliances. Check your local
newspaper and your mailbox
for circulars announcing the
latest, greatest deals on appli-
ances in your area.
Many stores will use
price-matching to stay compet-
itive. Not all stores have policies when you’re looking for an
on price-matching, so be sure
to ask first. If you can find a
lower advertised price on the
exact same product and model range of products?
elsewhere, many stores will sell
you the product for that price.
As always, conduct research
on the appliance you need to
make sure you are spending
money wisely. Not all appli-
ances are the same; just because
one manufacturer was excellent
two decades ago doesn’t mean
the quality will be the same
now.
Store policies
Review the store’s policies
about warranties and repairs.
If the appliance comes with
a one-year manufacturer’s
warranty, you might not need
an additional warranty from
the store.
Appliances have a yearly sale
price cycle. Washers and dryers
usually go on sale during the
winter. Refrigerators are often
discounted in the spring, and
stoves and ovens in the fall. If
you don’t need it right away,
consider shopping seasonally
for the best deal.
You could also haggle for
a price, especially at a local
appliance store. Salespeople
are typically prepared for this
process. If you are too shy or
afraid of haggling, ask the store
for extras, such as an extended
warranty or free delivery and
set-up. It never hurts to ask.
They just might give it to you.
Consider these questions
appliance store: Do they have
a delivery window, warranty
options, repair services and
Answer these questions, and
know that you’ll purchase your
appliances with confidence.

How to choose an
ATHLETIC TRAINER
Y ou’ve probably seen
them on the sidelines at
games, out of the lime-
light until the worst possible
time: when an injury occurs.
Athletic trainers play an im-
portant role in keeping athletes
healthy and performing at a
high level. While they’re fre-
quently seen on the sidelines
of competitive games helping
injured players, they also may
work on practice fields or in-
side schools, hospitals, fitness
centers and doctor’s offices.
They’re in high demand,
too. According to the United
States Bureau of Labor
Statistics, the athletic trainer
profession is expected to grow
nearly 20 percent by 2028, a
figure the bureau says is “much
faster than the average for all
occupations.”
Why all the growth? Much
of it boils down to two things:
competition and safety.
Benefits of athletic
trainers
The safety benefits of having Qualifications
access to an athletic trainer
will get you back in the game... should be obvious. When the field, athletic trainers are
an injury occurs, getting it
diagnosed and properly treated
quickly makes a big differ-
ence in recovery times, which
ultimately can save money on
health care later.
For serious injuries, having
someone ready to administer
first aid can also lead to faster
recoveries and better out-
comes.
Trainers also help teams stay
competitive. Because they’re
skilled at preventing, treating
and diagnosing various injuries
and illnesses — especially
those involving muscles and
bones — having an athletic
trainer can mean getting
skilled players back on the
field faster.
This is especially important
as year-round sports competi-
tions become more prevalent
for young people, increasing
the risk of injuries. It’s also a
needed service for middle-aged
and older populations as peo-
ple remain active later in life.
Before they can work in
required to earn a bachelor’s
degree at a minimum. They
also need to be certified or
licensed to work in your state,
something that differs from
place to place.
Most states have an online
database that lets you search
for licensed trainers in your
area. Just like with state
medical boards, you can see
whether the trainer holds the
right credentials.
Experience
Beyond the basic legal
requirements, a trainer’s ex-
perience and background can
play an important part in the
decision.
Find out what kinds of
sports the trainer has worked
around most often and what
types of injuries they treat
most frequently.
Any licensed trainer can do
the job, but some will have
specialized skills or interests
that make them a better fit for
certain sports or activities. Ide-
ally, you’ll find a trainer with
a not just background that
matches your needs, but also a
passion for the activity.

FASTER. Other considerations

The best athletic trainers
won’t just treat injuries after
they happen. They’ll also be
skilled at helping you develop
a comprehensive plan for
preventing injuries, too.
That’s because good athletic
trainers don’t just see them-
selves as doing a job, but being
a part of the team. They’re
invested in it and want to see
both the team and players

dchosp.org/ortho | 812.254.2673
succeed.
That means the trainer’s
personality and drive are im-
A Service of Daviess Community Hospital portant. A great athletic trainer
will constantly be learning and
studying about their field, be
personable and a good com-
municator when working with
players and parents, and be
both dependable and flexible
about their schedule.
With some thoughtful
searching, a good athletic
an affiliate of Ascension St. Vincent trainer can make a positive
difference for any team that
wants to be both safer and
more competitive.
Best methods for selecting a
PRIMARY CARE PROVIDER
F or your best health, you
need to have a good
relationship with your
primary care provider. And
if you want to have a good
relationship with your doctor
or practitioner, it helps to start
by picking the right one.
The best providers are excel-
lent listeners who take patient
concerns seriously. But there
are some other things you need
to consider when feeling out
a new doctor’s office. Here are
some things to think about:
Insurance
Insurance companies have
contracts with individuals or
group practices. It is likely that
you cannot go outside of your
insurer’s provider network
without paying an additional
fee. Your primary care doctor
should be able to understand
your medical needs, as well as
offer you appropriate referrals
should you need a specialist. It
is possible that using a doctor
outside your insurer’s primary
care network may subject you
to out-of-pocket expenses.
Some insurance carriers do
not impose restrictions on your
choice of physicians. If you
have this kind of policy, look to
your local newspaper or online
advertisements to find potential
primary care providers in your
area.
Meeting your needs
Experts recommend selecting
a general practitioner to serve
as your primary care physician.
This professional might be an
internal medicine doctor or a
member of a family practice.
Under some circumstances,
it is better to select a doctor
practicing within a particular
specialty.
Women might feel more
comfortable with an obstetri-
cian/gynecologist or OB/GYN,
as a primary care physician.
A pediatrician might be the
primary care physician for chil-
dren. Seniors could even have
a geriatric specialist for their
primary care physician.
Ask for referrals
Friends, family and other
trusted sources are the best
way to find a new doctor.
People will gladly give referrals
when they have had positive
experiences with their health
care providers. They will also
provide feedback when the ex- your physician can perform
perience was not to their liking. diagnostic tests and procedures.
The American Medical
Association or other profession- arate facility rather than their
al physicians’ organizations in
your area will be another useful
resource.
Prior to making a final
decision, always confirm that
your physician has a current
license to practice with the state you quickly.
medical board. This licensing
body will also tell you if he has
any pending disciplinary action
or complaints.
Not every doctor accepts
new patients. Once you have
collected a list of possible physi-
cians, contact them to make
sure they will accept new pa-
tients, as well as the insurance
you carry.
Ideally, your first visit will
include a routine physical ex-
amination and documentation
of your medical history. But
sometimes insurance carriers
will decline payment for rou-
tine exams.
Convenience
Convenience is another im-
portant factor when choosing
a physician. His or her office
should be easily accessible from
your home or workplace.
Ensure the doctor has
admitting privileges at your
preferred hospital in the event
you need treatment. Ask where
Some doctors might use a sep-
own offices.
Finally, inquire how long it
usually takes to book an ap-
pointment. When an emergen-
cy arises, you will want to know
that your new doctor can meet
How to choose
a GENERAL
SURGEON
M odern surgical proce-
dures are generally safe
and performed with
a regularity that brings little
worry to those who are being
operated on. But that doesn’t
mean you should not scruti-
nize the surgeon performing a
procedure.
Most people don’t have
much experience shopping for
surgeons like they do ordinary
goods and services, though.
So how do you pick the best
one? Here are some factors to
consider.
Referrals
Your primary care doctor can background before you make
refer you to general surgeons
they recommend in your area.
This is an important first
step because not only does
it give you a recommenda-
tion from a trained medical
expert — something that
should carry more weight than ence level that sets them apart
other factors — but it also gives from other surgeons?
you a chance to learn more
about what to expect and ask
questions about your potential is available online through the
surgeon and surgery.
Your doctor makes referrals
for a good reason. They know
which surgeons in the area have background as possible through
experience successfully handling these websites, including
your specific medical needs.
It’s a good idea to ask your
doctor not only which surgeons
they recommend, but why.
They can give you insight into
medical issues that you may not
have considered.
You also can learn more
about what to expect down the
road. For example, a surgeon
may perform diagnostic tests
and determine the course of
action for your treatment —
something that may or may not
require surgery, depending on
your health needs. Your family
doctor or specialist should be
able to explain what to expect
when you visit the surgeon for
the first time.
Background
There may be no career field
where education, ongoing
training and experience matter
more than in surgery. That’s
why you should ask questions
and learn about the surgeon’s
a choice.
Ask about the surgeon’s
experience as it relates to your
potential procedure. Is it some-
thing they perform regularly?
Do they have any specialized
training, technology or experi-
In most areas, information
about medical qualifications
state medical board or a board
of specialization. Try to learn
as much about your surgeon’s
whether they have disciplinary
action in their history.
Communication
While all certified general
surgeons will have met the
same stringent education and
experience requirements before
going into medical practice,
some surgeons have different
styles of communicating that
can make a big difference.
You should feel comfortable
talking with the surgeon and
getting answers to your ques-
tions. Likewise, the surgeon
should make you feel comfort-
able enough to let them know
your concerns and openly share
medical information that might
be important.
The best surgeons will
consider your preferences
for treatment as part of their
process. They’ll listen closely to
your needs and questions, then
address them in a way that’s
easy for you to understand.
Hospital and insurance
Finally, there are two factors
that could play a role in your
decision. What hospital is the
surgeon affiliated with, and
how well does your insurance
cover them?
Ideally, you’ll want to have
your surgery performed in a
hospital or surgical center close to
your home, where time and trav-
el considerations are reasonable.
It’s important to know your
insurance details, too.
If both the hospital and
surgeon are considered “in net-
work” by your insurance plan,
you typically pay lower out-of-
pocket costs. Your insurance
company can help explain what
costs you can expect to pay for
your surgery, including any
deductibles and co-pays.
Choosing one general
surgeon over another can some-
times make a big difference to
your pocketbook, so know the
costs and insurance coverage
up front.
If you can find a surgeon
who is highly experienced and
qualified in your procedure, has
good communication skills, is
covered by your insurance and
recommended by your doctor,
you’ll be more likely to have a
great experience in the end.
Choosing the best
PEDIATRICIAN for your child
F or a child, visiting a doc-
tor’s office might seem
like a terrifying prospect.
Initial visits can make an
indelible mark on children
for future treatments and the
cold, clinical atmosphere of
most medical clinics can be an
immediate source of fear.
Fortunately, pediatricians
are trained not only in medical
treatment for children but how
to make them most comfort-
able during their visits. Wel-
coming, child-friendly waiting
and exam rooms, along with
a caring, easy-going manner
work wonders on youngsters.
If you’re looking for a pedi-
You can also check with
your family doctor or OB/
GYN who delivered your
baby. They will have informed
recommendations to help you
select the best doctor.
Don’t just collect one or
two names. Ideally, you should
have a list of at least three
professionals. It will help you
compare and made the right
selection.
Insurance
Next, look at your insurance
policy. Find out if any of the
people on the list are part of
your network plan. Remember
that children visit the doctor
more frequently than adults
can find out who will work
best with your child.
Look at their office loca-
tions. They should be in a con-
venient location, not far from
your home. You will probably
visit this doctor quite often, so
convenience is a big factor.
When you meet with the
doctor, focus on his or her
philosophy. Some physicians A physician and
mother of four,
prefer to run lots of tests.
Others have a more relaxed
and homespun approach.
Parents who follow a well-
ness philosophy might have to
look harder to find a doctor
Dr. de la Vergne
brings 23 years
who is open-minded about
alternative medicine. If you are

atrician for your child, here’s
how to get started.
Recommendations
Family, friends and ac-
quaintances will likely have
recommendations about good
pediatricians in your area.
Parents will be happy to share
about their experiences at the
pediatrician’s office.
because they catch a lot of
viruses while building up their
immune systems. Doctors not
covered by your insurance
should be crossed off your list. The visit
You might also reconsider your
insurance policy.
Narrowing the list
It is time to arrange a meet-
ing with each physician so you
of expertise and
interested in alternative vac-
cine schedules, be sure to find
out if your doctor is receptive
to this idea.
personal Tanya de la Vergne, MD
experience to
Bring your child along for Board-Certified Pediatrician
this meeting. It will help you
gauge their interaction.
the pediatric patients of Daviess
The doctor should make
your child feel at ease. He
should be patient, tolerant and
friendly.
You must feel comfortable County and surrounding area.
with this medical professional
as well. He should take the
time to answer your questions
thoughtfully.
Inquire about their
emergency policy. Does the
office accept walk-ins? If your
Accepting New Patients
child gets sick in the middle
of the night, can you call the
Call 812.257.0383 for an appointment
pediatrician or nurse? Find out
about office hours and when

Monday–Friday
you need to visit the hospital
instead.
Is the office decorated with
children in mind? Is it a safe,
inviting atmosphere? Does the
8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
practice use modern equip-
ment? Are exam rooms clean?
Many pediatricians now
offer separate waiting rooms 1402 Grand Avenue
for children who are not sick.
These “well child” waiting Washington, IN 47501
areas help stop the spread of
viruses. If your child is there
for a checkup, it is a bad idea
to have him sit next to another
child who has the flu.
With this strategy, you
should have an easier time
an affiliate of Ascension St. Vincent
selecting a pediatrician.
Choosing well now will save dchosp.org/pediatrics
you time and trouble in the
future.

How to choose a REAL ESTATE AGENCY experience. Small agencies can

Purchasing or selling a home
and property is, in the best case,
a complicated process. It takes a
professional with experience in
navigating the myriad contracts
and making a deal that benefits
you. So you’ll want to do your
research and find a real estate
agency that can best represent
your interests.
These days, it seems like
every town has more than its
share of real estate businesses.
But choose wisely, all are not
equal. You should ask around
and check with your local
business bureau for suggestions
about good agencies in your
area.
Once you have a list of possi-
bilities, do some research. Find
out how long the agency has
been in business. Ideally, you
want people who know your
community.
If the real estate agency is
merely a side business, it might
not give you the best results.
Buying and selling homes is a
full time job.
Look on the internet and
read customer service reviews.
They should also have an im-
pact on your overall impression
of an agency.
Once you have narrowed
your list, contact some busi-
nesses and ask them questions.
You should know about their
listings, fees and commissions.
Choose an agency that has
connections with the commu-
nity, a sharp understanding of
neighborhoods that interest
you, and solid contacts with
other realty companies.
This assumes major impor-
tance when you’re selling your
current house, because the
agency usually handles the sale
while the realtor helps you find
your new one.
The marketing strategy and
advertising is what makes each
agency unique. It will great-
ly influence the sale of your
home.
Although most companies
might look the same, real estate
agencies have a preference for
the kind of properties they
show or sell. These concentra-
tions might include commercial
properties or high-end homes.
Try to find a business with a fo-
cus that concentrates on selling
homes similar to yours.
Look at an agency’s listings
to see if your home would fit
in nicely with their existing
clients. If you were purchas-
ing a home, would you find
their listings easy to read and
informative?
The size of the agency
will have an impact on your
provide more personalized
service, but they may not have
the networking advantages of
a large company. Big agencies
have more opportunities to net-
work and sell your home, but
they may have to divide their
time among many clients.
Be prepared to ask an agency
the following questions if you
are selling your home:
• How will you advertise my
home? Will you use the
internet and newspapers?
• How many pictures of my
house will appear online?
• On which sites will my
home be featured?
• Do you have other homes
that have recently been sold
in this price range?
• How long has the agency
been selling homes in my
neighborhood?
• What makes your agency
unique?
The two biggest financial
decisions you will make in your
lifetime are buying and selling a
home. Protect your investment
and peace of mind by choosing
the best and most trustworthy
real estate agency you can find.

Real Estate Merchandisers

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How to choose a designs to consider. Maybe you
would prefer a one-story ranch,
two-story home, Cape Cod or

MODULAR HOME chalet-style structure. You can

customize the look to meet

M
odular homes don’t
necessarily mean cheap
or poorly constructed
— although they can save you
a substantial amount of money.
Different from mobile or
manufacturer homes, modu-
lar homes can be worthwhile
investment that means a home
can be constructed in weeks
rather than months.
Modular homes are built in
large section in a factory, then
delivered and assembled quick-
ly at the construction site. The
time savings and the efficiencies
of producing most of the struc-
ture in a modern factory also
make modular homes a great
value for careful buyers.
Follow these tips to help you
find a modular home that will
fit your needs.
The dealer
Your first stop is finding a
qualified, licensed dealer who
works with modular home
manufacturers.
The best dealers are licensed
general contractors who can
handle all aspects of construct-
ing your home. He will make
certain that the design meets
your specifications and budget.
Dealers oversee all aspects of
putting your home together,
which includes securing the
correct permits, to concrete,
plumbing, HVAC, electrical
and carpentry work that will
occur onsite.
In addition, the best dealers
will assist you with your lender
and title company. They want
to make sure everything goes
smoothly for you.
The manufacturer
Once you pick a dealer, you
can begin to look at styles of
modular homes.
Each manufacturer has dif-
ferent options. There are sizes,
floor plans and architectural
your lifestyle and budget.
Because these homes are
manufactured by using innova-
tive technologies in a controlled
environment, the result is a
more precisely built home.
Weather variations during
construction will not affect the
house.
Manufacturers purchase
massive qualities of materials
for their factories, so they pass
their cost savings on to you.
Typically, production time
at the factory takes about eight
weeks. The structure will be
delivered and placed onto your
foundation. After that, the
final process of construction
usually takes two to four weeks
depending on the home and
job site.
Research the background
and expertise of your dealer and
manufacturer. Look carefully at
the features and design of the
manufacturer’s plans. Your hard
work will result in a high-quali-
ty home built to last.

How to choose a best to choose a funeral home

Ed L. Lee
that will cater to your specific
needs in order to make this

FUNERAL HOME difficult situation a little less

daunting.

C
Caring Staff

hoosing a funeral home
is never an easy process.
During times of loss,
the emotional pain and grief
can be crippling and making
arrangements for a funeral can
complicate and already difficult
period.
But there are ways to make
this difficult decision a little bit
easier on you and your family.
Here are some tips to help
make choosing the right funeral
home less stressful.
Compare Prices
If you have had to make fu-
neral arrangements in the past,
you may be tempted to just go
with the funeral home you have
experience with. While this
may be a smart option for some
people, it’s not always the right
option.
Depending on how long it’s
been since you needed to make
funeral arrangements for a
loved one, the price of that par-
ticular funeral home may have
gone up. That’s why it is wise
to shop around and compare
Mortuary
the prices of the various funeral
homes in your community. When visiting a potential fu-
neral home, the funeral director
Ask For References can be a major deciding factor
From Friends when you choose whether
Even if you have never had or not to use this particular
to choose a funeral home in the company to handle the funeral
past, you may have a friend or of your loved one.
two who has. Ask these friends
if they would recommend the
A caring and professional
funeral director and staff will Will guide you to a compassionate,
services provided at the funeral take the time to explain all your
homes they have used.
They may be able to share
options in an empathetic way professional & affordable
so you can make a better choice
valuable information about
the staff, facility and prices of a
when choosing a funeral home.
If the director seems short
funeral service.
specific funeral home.
or uninterested in your needs
Ask About Packages or makes you feel like you and
Whether your deceased loved your deceased loved one aren’t
one had a specific list for their
final wishes or you have to
important, you won’t want to
choose this facility to handle
2 Convenient Locations
make these decisions for your-
self, it is important that you ask
the funeral of your loved one.
While dealing with the death
in Washington
a potential funeral home what of a loved one is hard, choosing
types of packages they offer. the right funeral home can help
You will find that not all relieve you of some stress.
funeral homes are created If you want your loved one
equal, and each offers their own to receive the proper funeral he
different ways of handling a or she deserves, following the
service. No matter what type above listed tips should help
of requirements you have, it is you make the right choice.

101 North Meridian Street

and
620 East Viola
Washington, IN 47501
Phone: 812-254-3612 • Fax: 812-254-5633
www.edleemortuary.com
How to choose a FINANCIAL ADVISOR
T here are many sound
reasons for choosing a
financial advisor to man-
age your money. Professional
advisors are experts in wealth
management and can guide you
how best to save, invest and
allot your money for current
and future needs. They can also
suggest avenues of money man-
agement that hadn’t occurred to
you, help lower your taxes and
guide you through uncertain
financial times.
A great financial planner can
also teach you how to man-
age household expenses and
increase their wealth through
proper money management.
To find a reliable financial
advisor, start by asking your
social network. Friends and
family may have some sugges-
tions.
Research online for advisors
in your area. Your local news-
paper will likely have adver-
tisements for local advisors.
Remember to research each
advisor with an eye toward your
own situation and goals.
Once you have a list of three
or four possibilities; look closer
at each choice. It might be a
good idea to pick a financial
advisor who is a certified finan-
cial planner. A certified finan-
cial planner has passed rigorous
exams to obtain a certificate.
Once you have discovered
each advisor’s qualifications,
contact the certifying organiza-
tions to find out if there have
been any complaints against
each professional. If so, find
out how the complaints were
resolved.
You can request a list of
satisfied clients who have goals
comparable to yours. Con-
tact them to talk about their
experiences.
Areas of expertise
Financial products can con-
tribute to your well-being and
peace of mind. Some common
investing tools include bonds,
mutual funds, stocks and com-
modities.
Weighing risk is essential.
Some products will undoubt-
edly be better for your portfolio
than others. An experienced
financial advisor can customize
a portfolio especially for you.
You can also do some re-
search to find a segment of the
market that might be a good fit
for your situation. Then look
for an advisor who special-
izes in that investment. For
example, if you want to invest
in commodities, your poten-
tial advisor should have some
experience in that market.
Rate of success
Success rates will also play a
prominent role in your deci-
sion. Look at the rate of success
for each advisor. Has the rate of
return on his recommendations
outpaced the average market
rate of return over time? An ad-
visor with a solid rate of return
conducts research to strengthen
his clients’ portfolios.
During tough or stagnant
economic times, experience
will play a vital role. Has your
advisor weathered previous eco-
nomic slowdowns? Do clients
thrive in bleak environments?
Or have clients taken multiple
hits to their portfolios?
You should be wary if clients
appear to be doing too good
during tough times. Someone
with an extraordinary success
rate might be too good to be
true.
Fees or commissions
Inquire about how your
advisor is paid for services.
Most offer fee-based or com-
mission-based services. It will
greatly influence your selection.
A commission-based
advisor is prone to suggesting
financial products that offer
a professional commission. It
could needlessly increase your
exposure to risk. Only use a
commission-based advisor if he
or she has a proven track record
of success and also has your
best interest in mind.
When you need someone
who puts your best interests
first, go with a fee-based advi-
sor. He or she will be compen-
sated only for the time spent on
serving your portfolio.
Interview
Once you have narrowed
your prospects to two or three
possibilities, schedule a meeting
with each professional. During
this consultation, communicate
your goals honestly and clearly.
A financial planner should
be someone who will guide
and inform you. He or she
will continually increase your
knowledge about your current
financial situation and how to
improve it.
Put it in writing
Once you have narrowed
your list to one or two advisors;
ask each to write a plan for
moving you from where you
are to where you want to be.
Get a written copy of this
proposal.
This document should have
your short-term and long-term
goals, and also state who else
will profit from the proposal.
This plan should be written
clearly so you completely
understand it.
Once everything has been
completed to your satisfaction,
you can choose a financial
advisor. Then you can comfort-
ably relax and know that your
money and future are in good
hands.
Finding the right institution has a different policy
about these matters.
Many financial institutions
Financial institutions usually
invest deposited funds under
a fractional reserve banking
Still, a solid financial institution
will limit exposure to toxic
assets that put its balance sheet

FINANCIAL INSTITUTION offer overdraft coverage in the

form of a high-interest credit
line. Other financial institu-
system. Any financial institu-
tion with a strong balance sheet
should be able to weather any
at risk.
Services

B
Most financial institutions
anking, like almost Look at a fee schedule to Also, ask about their online tions charge fees each time an turbulence caused by market offer a variety of services.
everything in the inter- determine if it is acceptable to banking policies. Is the finan- overdraft occurs. corrections. Whether you need to get a loan
net age, has changed you. cial institution’s website easy Other financial institutions Most financial institutions or open a checking account,
drastically. to navigate and secure? Online provide no coverage. Be sure are also insured by the Federal choose a financial institution
Most of us hardly carry
Convenience Deposit Insurance Corporation that fulfills your needs with
banking can be a great way to to research overdraft policies
Financial institutions with for up to $250,000 per depos-
much cash or write checks pay bills and transfer money before making a final decision. the fewest fees. It should offer
multiple locations in conve- itor. This can vary depending the maximum conveniences
anymore with the rise of online between accounts.
banking. But that doesn’t mean
nient areas are important. Stability on the type and number of possible.
If you travel frequently, make Overdraft safeguards It is very important to accounts held by a customer. Careful and vigilant shoppers
all financial institutions are the
sure your local or regional fi- We all make mistakes. consider a financial institution’s If you understand these will have positive experiences
same. Accessing your money
nancial institution is a member Accidental overdrafts happen stability. Before you hand mon- safeguards, your money will be by making an effort to choose a
almost anywhere at any time
of a national network. occasionally. Each financial ey to an institution, check its safe in a financial institution. trustworthy commercial finan-
is a great convenience, but
choosing the right financial history and financial condition. But failures are still possible. cial institution.
institution to serve your needs
still requires close scrutiny.
Which sort of financial insti-
tution you choose — a “name”
institution, credit union or the
new-money, internet bank —
reflects your financial needs and
how you wish to deposit and
manage your hard-earned pay.
Here are a few things to
consider.
Interest rates
Financial institutions want
to be competitive. One way
they entice new customers is
by offering handsome interest
rates. It’s not uncommon for
savings account interest rates to
vary widely, but the majority of
institutions make adjustments
according to changes in the fed-
eral funds rate.
If you think interest rates
are inconsequential, you’re
wrong. When substantial
deposit amounts are involved,
the difference a few percentage
points on an interest rate makes
can be significant. Use online
resources and shop around for
the best rates in your area.
Fees
Financial institutions are also
notorious for charging fees for
certain transactions. A checking
account may only allow a
certain number of checks to
be written each month before
a fee is assessed, or maybe a
minimum balance is required
to keep the account active.
Some financial institutions
offer free checking. But you
should make sure that the free
checking is really free. There
may be stipulations such as
being required to keep a mini-
mum balance in the account at
all times.
Tips for selecting a quality HEARING AID to help you choose the right
style to fit your needs.

M
ore than 40 million
Americans suffer from
some form of hearing
loss or impairment. Difficulty
hearing can have a huge impact
on our lives, from struggling
to understand conversations to
enjoying our favorite forms of
entertainment.
Hearing aids can help
relieve the consequences of this
condition and ensure that the
hearing-impaired lead richer,
fuller lives.
If you think you may need
a hearing aid, it’s a good idea
to talk to an expert. Types of
hearing loss vary widely, and
are sometimes quite different
from person to person.
Recent innovations in
hearing aids include digital
processors to isolate and am-
plify the frequencies a patient
needs most. Ask your doctor
about your options for a quality
hearing device.
Styles
Gone are the days of bulky,
obvious hearing aids.
The most popular hearing
aids on the market fit com-
pletely within the ear canal.
While they are attractive and
barely noticeable, their small
size means they are typically
more expensive.
Other styles include half-
shell, full-shell, behind-the-ear
and open-fit hearing aids.
Because these hearing aids
come in a range of sizes and
prices, consult with a specialist
Internal electronics
The design of a hearing aid
will make a large difference
in cost and performance. Two
devices may look similar but
produce dramatically different
results.
The difference is in the
internal electronics. Nearly all
hearing aids available today
are digital. They will filter out
background noise, enabling the
wearer to hear a conversation
clearly. This technology is par-
ticularly effective in crowded
settings.
This technology can be
tailored to help with your
particular kind of hearing loss.
If you have an outdated hearing
aid, consider upgrading to a
more modern device. It will
help your hearing be as close to
natural as possible.
Options
When you are searching for
a hearing aid, look for special
features that will enhance your
hearing and your life. Some
examples include:
Bluetooth connections: You
could connect wirelessly to
Bluetooth electronic devices,
such as smart phones. It allows
you to hear phone conversa-
tions directly through your
hearing aid.
Telephone adaptors: This
feature senses when you are
talking on the phone and
adjusts the setting to make it
more clear during your conver-
sation.
Directional microphone:
You can adjust your device to
pick up sound that is directly
in front of you. For example,
when you are having one-
on-one conversations with a
person, it is useful to turn the
microphone to improve your
hearing. You may also change
the setting to a more general
setting that would be useful
at public performances or
concerts.
Remote control: Some
devices allow you to adjust the
settings without touching it.
A remote control can change
the directional microphone or
amplification.
There are a lot of beautiful
sounds in the world. Don’t let
your hearing loss cause you
to miss any more of them. A
hearing aid can help you.

Working with a certified Hearing test by a certified Understanding of expectations Treatment plan customized Accurately fit and
hearing care provider hearing professional and better hearing goals to your needs programed technology

Meet the Expert

Karin Schmidt, BC-HIS, Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist, Owner of
Hometown Hearing, Inc., is an Indiana native and received her training in Hearing
Instrument Sciences in Vincennes and Washington. With over 12 years experience
in the hearing wellness industry, Karin’s mission and challenge is to help improve
each person’s quality of life by improving the quality of their hearing.
Karin Schmidt, BC-HIS Tim Schmidt,
Call today to schedule your FREE hearing evaluation with Karin Schmidt, your Board Certified Co-Owner
local hearing healthcare professional! Hearing Instrument Specialist

Vincennes: (812) 882-2075 • Washington: (812) 674-2334

There’s Nothing To It
During your initial visit, you will receive
the following:
•

•
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Hometown Hearing
Locally Owned and Operated
of your ears, see inside your own ear!
Vincennes
• COMPLIMENTARY hearing aid clean and check 2003 Hart Street • Vincennes, Indiana 47591
if you currently wear hearing aids. (812) 882-2075
© 2018 Starkey. All Rights Reserved. 8/18 266882429

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in hearing aid technology. 420 South Highway 57 • Washington, Indiana 47501
See how far technology has come! (812) 674-2334
CALL TODAY TO HEAR MORE ABOUT OUR www.HometownHearingInc.com
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© 2017 Starkey. All Rights Reserved. 9/17 176055040
How to choose a reputable DIGITAL
ADVERTISING PROVIDER
C
onsider two digital
advertising scenarios that
may sound familiar.
How often do you find
yourself each day searching for
something on Google? Millions
of us do — over 3.5 billion In-
ternet surfers, each day. That’s
the starting point for many
people when they’re searching
for something they need or
want. When people are delib-
erately seeking something out,
this indicates that they are very
likely ready to make a purchase
in the near future.
Wouldn’t it be great if your
business leverage this flood of
ready-to-buy prospects? Well,
it can, by using targeted digital
advertising.
Another question: How
often is it that you visit a busi-
ness, be it in person or online,
and then notice advertisements
for that business popping up
on your smartphone, tablet,
or laptop? This is happening
more and more. The simple
reason is because it works for
the advertiser. Digital adver-
tising catches your eye because
you’ve shown interest, in some
way, for the product. You have
been targeted!
You notice the ad, you click
on the ad, you visit the site,
you click a button that says
“send me more info” or ask the
business to contact you, or you
might even call the business
right then and there from a
result of the ad.
When you’ve visited the
company’s website and then
start seeing advertisements,
you’re experiencing “site retar-
geting.” When you’ve visited
the company’s location and
start seeing mobile advertise-
ments for that company on
your digital devices, your phone
location has been tapped, and
that is called “geofencing.”
A geofence is a virtual out-
line of a given location. It can
be a large or small “fence,” and
it can be defined by latitude
and longitude, or by zip code.
These are just two examples
of digital advertising.
In 2020, this kind of adver-
tising will overtake all other
traditional forms of advertising.
In 2019, the total spent in the
United States will be nearly
$130 BILLION, or over 54%
of total U.S. ad spending.
In 2020, the amount spent
on digital advertising will edge
out radio, billboards, with
television and newspapers that
have developed digital advertis-
ing departments maintaining
ground (because these are
content-focused media).
Due to the successful results
delivered by digital advertising,
there is naturally a stampede
of advertisers clamoring to get
their ad online.
So, before you move
forward, here is some advice
for how to choose a digital ad
consultant!
First: Buyer beware. Make
sure you are buying from a
known, respected, and creden-
tialed provider, one you are
familiar with and one who has
a positive track record.
Second: Explain what results
you’d like and that you’d like a
proposal describing a handful
of ideas that will help toward
that goal. Don’t spend one
minute talking with someone
who wants to throw jargon
around and talk over your
head, and above all, insist on
transparency.
Third: GET A SECOND
OPINION! If someone is
telling you that you can do
something that almost sounds
too good to be true, it probably
is. An example might be some-
one telling you that you can
geofence all the 30-year-olds
who come and go at a business
location. That technology
doesn’t exist yet. If someone
is telling you they can do that,
smile politely and end the
meeting.
Fourth: Make all efforts to
choose local! Avoid “out-
of-town-experts.” There are
nightmare stories in every town
of businesses being contacted
by friendly-sounding sales-
people several states away who
sold them something they can’t
update, can’t move, and have to
keep paying for.
Fifth: Make sure there’s an
“out” clause — i.e., if you’re
unhappy after three months,
you can cancel everything.
Keep the results you desire
for your business in mind, but
don’t be overwhelmed.
Think about defining what
success would be with a digital
advertising campaign. How
many new customers would
be acceptable? Which kind
of customers — i.e., who you
would like to see more of in
your business? Also, what
items or services would you
like to sell more of? What is
the long-term value of one ad-
ditional customer? How many
additional customers would
help to justify the cost of your
digital ads?
That way, with a three-
months and “out” clause
in your digital advertising
agreement, there’s no harm and
no foul!