#CDT Follower Challenge

[pilesofnonsense]

RQBB 2024 Artist Sign-Ups Open

Please read through the information carefully to understand what will be expected of you as a participant.

The sign-up link is at the end of the post, under the spoiler cut.

Schedule for 2024 (all deadlines at 23:00 BST/5pm CDT):

Artist Sign-up Closes: September 1st

Check-in 2 & Art Draft Deadline: September 29th

Final Fic & Art Due: October 13th

Posting: October 16th-27th

Confirmation e-mails for sign-ups will be sent out after sign-ups close; if you have not received a confirmation by September 3rd, please contact us at pilesofnonsense@gmail.com. We ask that you check your email (including the spam folder!) and reply so we can confirm that your registered email address is correct and you still intend to participate.

If you wish to only sign-up as a pinch hitter for the event, please email us at pilesofnonsense@gmail.com and let us know the fandoms and ratings you’d be comfortable to pinch hit for, as well as your Do Not Wants (if you would be comfortable with pinch hitting M and E rated fics, you confirm that you are over 18).

Participation Requirements:

You must choose whether to join the Big Bang as an artist or writer. You may not do both.

Artists will need somewhere to host their work, so that it can be embedded on AO3.

If you wish to create for M or E rated fics you must be aged over 18.

All participants must read and adhere to the Expected Conduct guidelines (see below).

Art Requirements: At least one fully finished piece of original artwork (traditional or digital colored/shaded drawing or painting, fanbinding, completed cross-stitch or knitting project, etc.) or full podfic. Compilations or arrangements of existing art, such as playlists or moodboards, should not be your primary piece for this challenge, though you are welcome to include them as a bonus (see below).

Please note, we do not accept AI-generated or AI-assisted works, either as main or extra pieces.

We hope that artists, like the writers, will take this opportunity to challenge themselves—whether by attempting an ambitious work in their primary medium, finding new means of creative expression, or sharing an extra tidbit inspired by their work on this project (e.g. sketches, a playlist, a comment about the fic and the process of creating for it, etc.).

If you have any questions about the suitability of your art, please contact the mods.

Art Draft Requirements: Your draft should show significant progress on your piece. For a digital drawing, for example, the minimum would be completed lineart, ready for coloring. For handcrafts, your project should be about halfway done.

As always, if you are unsure what qualifies when it comes to your medium or process, you can contact us!

Maximum Number of Fics per Artist: Initially, each artist will only be able to sign up for 1 fic (they may create as much art for this fic as they like).

Artists who would like to create for more than one fic can indicate this in their sign-up, and will be contacted during matching if this is necessary. You may also sign up as a pinch-hitter to be contacted in the event that another artist drops out.

Matching Process: The artist sign-up will include a list of the anonymised fic summaries. Each artist will select 2 fics which they would be interested in creating for, with additional preferences (favourite show/shows they do not follow, OTPs and NoTPs, Do Not Wants, etc.) indicated in the comment field. Mods will then match writers to artists, taking preferences into account as much as possible.

If fics are oversubscribed or if it is otherwise necessary for matching, they may be removed from the list of eligible fics before the end of artist sign-ups.

If you have an issue with your match, please let the mods know as soon as possible.

Do Not Wants: In this event, you will have an opportunity to Do Not Want (DNW) the types of content that you do not wish to work on. Similarly, if you’ve had conflicts with certain people in the past and do not want to risk matching to them, you can include this in your sign-up or draft submission, and we will avoid matching you with them (details of these will not be shared beyond the mod team).

The mods will always account for DNWs within reason; however, attempts to manipulate matches via DNWs or otherwise acting in bad faith will result in the rejection of your sign-up or draft. We are also not private detectives, and will thus not be fielding any requests such as “do not match me with anyone who has ever drawn/written XYZ.” Please keep that in mind when considering whether this event is right for you.

Discord: Writers, artists, and anyone else involved in the event are all welcome to join our Discord for RQ Big Bang chatter! Links will be included in participant confirmation emails; please do not share these links, as they are created to meet our participant numbers.

Expected Conduct:

By signing up for this event, you agree to do your best to meet the deadlines. If you might need a little more time, please email the mods to explain your situation before the deadline passes. Those who miss deadlines without contacting the mods beforehand may be dropped from the event without further contact.

In order to participate in this event, you must be willing to contact the mods directly in the event that you have a question, concern, or issue with your participation (as in the deadline example above). We are happy to help participants with anything that arises, but cannot accept “telephone”-style communiques on behalf of others.

Be in regular contact with your match—if you’re going to be offline for a significant length of time, let them know. Radio silence from your match in events of this kind can be very concerning. (If you are having trouble getting in touch with your match, please contact us!)

Please take care to credit your writer in your own final post.

Our Discord server has its own list of rules, which are listed within the server. If you decide to join the server, we require you to read and abide by those rules.

Be kind and courteous towards your match and fellow participants. This naturally means that all forms of bigotry and discrimination are prohibited, but even where those are not at play, you are expected to treat others with respect.

We, like Rusty Quill, have an “all headcanons are valid” policy. Harassment or mockery of those with different interpretations will not be tolerated. This does not mean you cannot discuss how you see the characters with others or that your artist/writer should not take it into account at their discretion, but insistence that any one interpretation must be adhered to is not allowed.

If you have concerns that a work or participant may be in violation of the rules, please bring it to the mods directly. Harassment of other participants (including but not limited to callout posts, name-calling, baiting, etc.), either publicly or in the Piles of Nonsense discord server, over their identities, fanworks, or headcanons will result in an instant default.

A full overview of the guidelines can be found on our Challenge Guidelines page. We also have an FAQ. Please note that you cannot open blog pages using the app; you will need to use a browser to view them.

Note: If surveymonkey rejects your sign-up, claiming you haven’t picked enough fics, please try again, avoiding any fic with a note saying it’s been temporarily removed from sign-up. Temporary fic removal is a normal part of our sign-up process, but unfortunately surveymonkey can be glitchy - we had an issue last year where it would not hide removed fics, and instead simply refused to let anyone choose them.

The artist sign-up form can be found here.

Thanks for reading, and we look forward to working with you!

[dvandom]

Retief and the Peter Principle

Inspired by James Nicoll's essay on SF and the Peter Principle.

For those not into 70s SF, Jaime Retief is the protagonist of Keith Laumer's more light-hearted ironic post-Golden Age space opera stuff, a counterpart to his grimmer Bolo stories (albeit potentially set in the same universe, or Retief is in an AU of Bolo). He works for the Corps Diplomatique Terrestrienne (CDT), a secret agent of the James Bond mold masquerading as yet another ineffectual CDT drone. The typical story involves the CDT trying to do something stupid on an alien world, and while technically following orders Retief manages to salvage the situation by just being So Much More Clever than his ostensible superiors. A common point of tension is that the Terrans have the military might to crush any opposition, but without Retief (and possibly a few others like him scattered about), the Groaci would eat our lunch and dominate known space.

It's basically read as a broadly satirical take on U.S. attempts at diplomacy, a comedy of errors against an enemy that shouldn't be that much of a challenge but somehow is (Groaci war tech is mostly knockoffs of older Terran tech, and they don't have nearly as much of it). So, Retief has to make sure he has the proper hemi-semi-demi-formal leisure suit for the afternoon meeting, while also keeping the Groaci from stealing a planet out from under the CDT. Retief's boss is good at covering his own ass, taking credit for Retief's actions (especially those that were ostensibly direct violations of orders), etc. Classic struggle of the only competent guy at the company to keep things from falling apart when the institutional culture is just crap, right?

Now...it's quite possible that this surface reading is all that Laumer intended. But, while it's been many years since I read the books, I never got the impression that Retief himself though "blow the Groaci away" was actually a preferred solution. Whoever Retief really answers to seems to be generally okay with the "diplomats, not armadas" policy.

Potential Death of the Author time. Regardless of what Laumer really meant, these days I see the situation as a case of the entire Terran government suffering from the Peter Principle, in which they have been promoted above the level of their competence.

They are very good at military solutions. It's often pointed out that they could throw a switch and roll over the Groaci-held worlds on a moment's notice, without scratching the paint on the dreadnaughts. But at some point in the relatively recent past, they decided to be Better. To work towards diplomatic solutions, make allies rather than vassals. And the ludicrously incompetent actions of the Corps Diplomatique Terrestrienne demonstrate that no one really knows how to do that. The warlike phase went on long enough that institutional memory of diplomacy was lost, and they're forced to fall back on historical records going back to when Terrans were restricted to Terra. They desperately want to be the United Federation of Planets instead of being the Empire, but it's outside their competency. Meanwhile, the Groaci (and probably some other minor powers) have realized that this levels the playing field a LOT. They can do stupid and bad diplomacy as well as the Terrans can, and it's a lot more likely to get them what they want than trying to pick an actual fight in which they'd get vaporized. Some of them might even be honestly better at diplomacy than the CDT.

Retief's job, then, is to troubleshoot the process. The true brains behind the Terran government are smart enough to know they have no idea what they're doing, a lot of wheels are being reinvented and turning out to be rectangular. So Retief is put in a position to chisel them into a more round-ish shape before disaster happens.

Retief is the sergeant who keeps the newly minted lieutenant that is the CDT out of trouble, while being careful to maintain the illusion of the chain of command. Hemi-semi-demi-usually.

[somegalsandagame]

Tonight the Gals will be playing Deadlight! A beautiful world where a misstep means death. Sharpen your survival instincts and learn to turn the environment from foe to ally!

Beginning @ 9pm CDT

The world has ended. There is no hope. No new beginning. Only the survivors. DEADLIGHT follows the journey of Randall Wayne, a man searching for his family across Seattle during the aftermath of a 1980s event that has decimated life on earth. This visually stunning Cinematic Survival Platformer will challenge you to run, jump, climb, and struggle for your life as you look for answers and the ones you love.

Come by and join us!

[rosewinelonging]

rosewine 60 followers celebration ^_^

shouldve done this at 50 but whatvrrrrr !! nyway yayyyy thank u guys for followin me and likin my stuff <3 SO bc u guys r so great ill hav rqs open ALL DAY until 11:59 pm CDT for this RQ CHALLENGE !!!

RULES:

-send in 1 - 3 emojis w a pairing an ill write a short lil thing for it <3

-if no characters provided i will default to lalondecest

-NO troll guys. or strider/cest.

-have fun <3

ty for playin <333

[vitalvirtualshr]

Virtual Receptionist vs. In-House Dental Receptionist: Which Saves More Money?

Introduction In an era where 68% of dental practices cite rising operational costs as their top challenge, the debate between hiring a virtual receptionist for dental offices and maintaining an in-house team is hotter than ever. With staffing costs eating up 25-30% of a practice’s revenue, the right choice could mean saving tens of thousands annually, or sinking funds into avoidable overhead.

This blog breaks down the real costs of both options, using U.S.-specific data, hidden expenses, and case studies to answer one question: Which solution truly saves more money for your dental practice?

The True Cost of an In-House Dental Receptionist

Let’s dissect the average expenses of employing a full-time, in-house receptionist in 2024:

1. Salary

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average dental receptionist earns 38,000–38,000–45,000 annually (or 18–18–22/hour) in major metros like New York or Los Angeles. In rural areas, salaries drop to 32,000–32,000–36,000.

2. Benefits & Taxes

Add 25–30% for:

Health insurance ($6,000+/year)

Paid time off (PTO) and sick days

Social Security, Medicare, and unemployment taxes

Retirement contributions (e.g., 401(k)

Total: 47,500–47,500–58,500 per year for one employee.

3. Training & Turnover

Onboarding: 2–4 weeks of paid training (avg. $2,500 cost).

Turnover: Replacing staff costs 50–75% of their salary. With a 30% industry turnover rate, this adds 15,000–15,000–25,000/year.

4. Overhead

Workspace, equipment, and software: 3,000–3,000–5,000/year.

Coverage gaps during breaks, vacations, or sick days require temp staff (18–18–25/hour).

Grand Total: 65,000–65,000–85,000+ annually for one in-house receptionist.

The Cost of a Virtual Receptionist for Dental Offices

A virtual receptionist for dental offices operates remotely, handling calls, scheduling, insurance verification, and more. Here’s the cost breakdown:

1. Hourly Rates

Most U.S.-based virtual receptionist services charge 18–18–30/hour, depending on:

Coverage hours (e.g., 24/7 vs. business hours)

Specialized skills (e.g., Dentrix/OpenDental expertise)

Bilingual support

Example: A Chicago practice paying 22/hourfor40hours/weekspends∗∗22/hourfor40hours/weekspends∗∗45,760/year**—no benefits or taxes required.

2. No Hidden Costs

Zero overhead: No workspace, equipment, or software fees (they use your existing tools).

Scalability: Pay only for the hours you need. Reduce hours during slow seasons.

No turnover costs: Reputable services handle training and replacements at no extra charge.

3. Added Revenue Opportunities

24/7 Availability: Capture after-hours emergencies (15–20% of new patients call outside 9–5).

Reduced No-Shows: Automated SMS reminders recover 150–150–300 per missed appointment.

Grand Total: 20,000–20,000–50,000 annually, depending on usage.

Side-by-Side Comparison: Virtual vs. In-House

FactorIn-House ReceptionistVirtual Receptionist for Dental OfficeAnnual Cost65,000–65,000–85,000+20,000–20,000–50,000Benefits/Taxes25–30% extraIncluded in rateCoverage GapsTemp staff costsSeamless backup agentsTraining$2,500+/hireFree, ongoing trainingSoftware/Equipment3,000–3,000–5,000$0 (uses your systems)ScalabilityLimited by FTE headcountAdjust hours weekly

Case Study: A 5-dentist practice in Miami switched to a virtual receptionist for dental offices, saving 52,000/year.TheyreallocatedfundstoanewCERECmachine,boostingproductionby52,000/year.TheyreallocatedfundstoanewCERECmachine,boostingproductionby120k annually.

5 Myths About Virtual Receptionists (Debunked)

“They Don’t Understand Dental Terminology” Reputable services train staff in CDT codes, insurance verification, and HIPAA compliance.

“Patients Will Notice They’re Not In-Office” Modern systems integrate with your practice’s phone line—calls are answered as “[Your Practice Name], how can I help?”

“They Can’t Handle Emergencies” 24/7 virtual teams follow your protocols (e.g., forwarding root canal emergencies to your on-call dentist).

“It’s Less Secure Than In-House” HIPAA-compliant services sign BAAs and use encrypted platforms like OpenDental Cloud.

“You Lose Control Over Scheduling” You set rules (e.g., “Don’t book more than 3 cleanings/hour”) in the software.

When In-House Might Still Make Sense

High-Touch Specialty Practices: Pediatric or geriatric offices needing in-person patient hand-holding.

Hybrid Models: Use a virtual receptionist for dental offices for after-hours calls and an in-house team for daytime.

FAQs: Your Top Questions Answered

Q: Can a virtual receptionist for dental offices verify insurance? A: Yes! They confirm eligibility, benefits, and pre-authorizations in real-time using your practice management software.

Q: How do virtual receptionists handle patient privacy? A: HIPAA-compliant services use secure, encrypted platforms and sign BAAs to protect PHI.

Q: What if I need to cancel or change my plan? A: Most services offer flexible contracts—scale up/down with 30 days’ notice.

Conclusion For most U.S. dental practices, a virtual receptionist for dental offices isn’t just a cost-saving move—it’s a revenue-generating strategy. With average savings of 30,000–30,000–50,000/year, the funds can be reinvested into marketing, new technology, or staff bonuses.

However, the “best” choice depends on your practice’s size, specialty, and patient demographics. Test a virtual receptionist for dental offices risk-free with a 2-week trial, and compare the ROI yourself.

Ready to slash overhead without sacrificing patient care? [Book a free consultation] to explore tailored virtual receptionist solutions.

[medeasepmsolutions]

Efficient Billing for Doctors in Maryland and Billing for Dental Services

Understanding Billing for Doctors in Maryland

Medical billing is a critical aspect of healthcare, ensuring that doctors receive timely payments for their services. In Maryland, the process involves handling insurance claims, coding procedures accurately, and following state-specific regulations. Proper billing for doctors in Maryland helps in maintaining smooth financial operations and reducing claim denials.

Medical billing professionals in Maryland need to be well-versed in CPT codes, ICD-10 classifications, and HIPAA compliance. Healthcare providers often face challenges like insurance rejections and delayed payments. Efficient billing software and experienced billing services can streamline the revenue cycle and maximize reimbursements.

Challenges in Billing for Doctors in Maryland

One of the primary challenges in medical billing is ensuring accuracy in claim submissions. Incorrect codes or missing patient details can lead to claim denials, which delay payments and affect cash flow. Another issue is keeping up with evolving insurance policies and regulatory changes.

To overcome these challenges, many healthcare providers opt for professional billing services. These services not only manage claim submissions but also handle follow-ups, reducing the burden on medical staff and improving revenue collection.

Key Aspects of Billing for Dental Services

Dental billing operates differently from general medical billing as it involves specific coding procedures and insurance policies. Billing for dental services includes managing claims for preventive care, restorative treatments, and orthodontic procedures. Dentists need to use CDT codes to ensure accurate claims processing.

Unlike medical billing, dental billing often involves dealing with dual insurance coverage, where both dental and medical insurance providers may need to be billed. This requires expertise in determining which insurance should be billed first and how to handle coordination of benefits.

Common Issues in Billing for Dental Services

One major issue in billing for dental services is claim rejection due to incomplete documentation. Many insurance companies require detailed treatment plans and pre-authorizations before approving claims. Another challenge is ensuring compliance with ever-changing insurance policies and state regulations.

To avoid these issues, dental clinics can invest in advanced billing software or outsource their billing tasks to specialized service providers. This helps in faster claim processing and reduces revenue losses due to denied claims.

The Importance of Outsourcing Billing Services

Outsourcing billing for doctors in Maryland and billing for dental services can significantly improve efficiency and accuracy. Professional billing services provide expertise in handling complex insurance claims, reducing errors, and maximizing reimbursements.

With experienced billing professionals managing the process, healthcare providers can focus on patient care rather than administrative tasks. Additionally, outsourcing reduces operational costs and ensures compliance with industry regulations.

 

Efficient billing for doctors in Maryland and billing for dental services is crucial for maintaining a steady revenue flow in the healthcare industry. By leveraging professional billing services, medical and dental practitioners can minimize claim denials and improve financial stability. 

[aaamb123]

The Perfect Bill: Best Practices for Dental Medical Billing

Accurate and efficient dental billing is essential for the financial stability of any dental practice. Given the complexities of medical billing and revenue cycle management, ensuring proper documentation, coding, and timely claim submissions is crucial. A reliable medical billing company can streamline the claims process, reduce denials, and maximize reimbursements.

Understanding the Dental Billing Process

Dental billing involves multiple steps, from coding procedures correctly to verifying insurance coverage and maintaining compliance with industry regulations. Since dental services range from routine cleanings to complex surgeries, accurate documentation and coding are critical for securing timely reimbursements.

Key Challenges in Dental Billing

🔹 Complex Coding Requirements: Dental procedures require CDT (Current Dental Terminology) codes, which must be accurately assigned to avoid claim denials. 🔹 Insurance Compliance: Different insurance providers have unique policies, requiring careful verification of patient eligibility before treatment. 🔹 Medical vs. Dental Insurance Coordination: Some procedures are covered under medical insurance, requiring precise coding and documentation. 🔹 Frequent Claim Denials: Errors in the claims process can cause delays, impacting cash flow and revenue.

Best Practices for Dental Billing

1. Ensure Accurate Documentation

Thorough documentation is the foundation of a successful billing process. Providers should record procedure details, diagnoses, and supporting information to ensure compliance and prevent claim denials.

2. Use the Correct Dental and Medical Codes

Proper coding with CDT and ICD-10 codes is essential for successful reimbursements. Medical billing and coding services stay updated on industry changes to reduce coding errors and maximize revenue.

3. Verify Patient Eligibility and Coverage

Before performing procedures, verifying a patient’s insurance eligibility and coverage prevents claim rejections. Some treatments require prior authorization, and a professional medical billing company ensures timely verification and claim submissions.

4. Optimize the Medical Billing Claims Process

A streamlined claims submission process helps avoid errors and accelerates reimbursement. Follow these key steps: ✔️ Verify patient details and insurance information. ✔️ Ensure correct coding and documentation. ✔️ Submit claims electronically for faster processing. ✔️ Track claims and follow up on denials promptly.

5. Conduct Regular Medical Billing Audits

Routine audits help identify billing errors, compliance risks, and revenue leakage. Audits allow providers to correct mistakes before they impact revenue and ensure smooth operations.

6. Partner with a Professional Medical Billing Company

Outsourcing to a trusted medical billing company in Texas or Dallas significantly improves revenue cycle efficiency. An expert billing team handles coding, claims processing, and compliance, allowing dental providers to focus on patient care.

7. Streamline Dental Practice Management with Technology

Using advanced medical billing practice management software automates coding, claims tracking, and reporting—reducing manual errors and enhancing financial performance.

Why Choose a Professional Dental Medical Billing Company in Texas?

For dental providers, partnering with an experienced medical billing company ensures compliance and maximized reimbursements. A reliable billing team helps reduce claim denials, optimize cash flow, and maintain compliance with state and federal regulations.

Conclusion

Dental billing requires precision, compliance, and expert management. Implementing best practices—such as proper documentation, correct coding, insurance verification, and outsourcing to a trusted billing partner—enhances revenue cycle efficiency. Whether you need medical billing in Dallas or across Texas, choosing the right partner ensures financial stability and better patient care.

📞 Looking for expert dental medical billing services? Contact us today to streamline your billing process and maximize your revenue!

[pilesofnonsense]

RQBB 2023 Artist Sign-Ups Open

[ID: Picture of a black banner with the Rusty Quill show logos and a text in white and red that reads Rusty Quill Big Bang 2023]

Please read through the information carefully to understand what will be expected of you as a participant.

The sign-up link is at the end of the post under the spoiler cut!

Schedule for 2023 (all deadlines at 23:00 BST / 5pm CDT):

Artist Sign-ups: July 17th - 23rd

Check-in 2 & Art Draft Deadline: August 20th

Final Fic & Art Due: August 27th

Posting: September 3rd - September 17th

Confirmation e-mails for sign-ups will be sent out after sign-ups close; if you have not received a confirmation by July 26th, please contact us at pilesofnonsense@gmail.com. We ask that you check your email (including the spam folder!) and reply so we can confirm that your registered email address is correct and you still intend to participate.

If you wish to only sign-up as a pinch hitter for the event please e-mail us under pilesofnonsense@gmail.com and let us know the fandoms and ratings you’d be comfortable to pinch hit for and what your Do Not Wants are (if you would be comfortable with pinch hitting M and E rated fics, you confirm that you are over 18).

Participation Requirements:

You must choose whether to join the Big Bang as an artist or writer. You may not do both.

Artists will need somewhere to host their work, so that it can be embedded on AO3.

If you wish to create for M or E rated fics you must be aged over 18.

All participants must read and adhere to the Expected Conduct guidelines (see below).

Art Requirements: At least one fully finished piece of original artwork (traditional or digital colored/shaded drawing or painting, ficbinding, completed cross-stitch or knitting project, etc.) or full podfic. Compilations or arrangements of existing art, such as playlists or moodboards, should not be your primary piece for this challenge, though you are welcome to include them as a bonus (see below).

Please note, we do not accept AI-generated or AI-assisted works, either as main or extra pieces.

We hope that artists, like the writers, will take this opportunity to challenge themselves—whether by attempting an ambitious work in their primary medium, finding new means of creative expression, or sharing an extra tidbit inspired by their work on this project (e.g. sketches, a playlist, a comment about the fic and the process of creating for it, etc.).

If you have any questions about the suitability of your art, please contact the mods.

Art Draft Requirements: Your draft should show significant progress on your piece. For a digital drawing, for example, the minimum would be completed lineart, ready for coloring. For handcrafts, your project should be about halfway done.

As always, if you are unsure what qualifies when it comes to your medium or process, you can contact us!

Maximum Number of Fics per Artist: Initially, each artist will only be able to sign up for 1 fic (they may create as much art for this fic as they like).

Artists who would like to create for more than one fic can indicate this in their sign-up, and will be contacted during matching if this is necessary. You may also sign up as a pinch-hitter to be contacted in the event that another artist drops out.

Matching Process: The artist sign-up will include a list of the anonymised fic summaries. Each artist will select 3 fics which they would be interested in creating for, with additional preferences (favourite show/shows they do not follow, OTPs and NoTPs, Do Not Wants, etc.) indicated in the comment field. Mods will then match writers to artists, taking preferences into account as much as possible.

If fics are oversubscribed or if it is otherwise necessary for matching, they may be removed from the list of eligible fics before the end of artist sign-ups.

If you have an issue with your match, please let the mods know as soon as possible.

Do Not Wants: In this event, you will have an opportunity to Do Not Want (DNW) the types of content that you do not wish to work on. Similarly, if you’ve had conflicts with certain people in the past and do not want to risk matching to them, you can include this in your sign-up or draft submission, and we will avoid matching you with them (details of these will not be shared beyond the mod team).

The mods will always account for DNWs within reason; however, attempts to manipulate matches via DNWs or otherwise acting in bad faith will result in the rejection of your sign-up or draft. We are also not private detectives, and will thus not be fielding any requests such as “do not match me with anyone who has ever drawn/written XYZ.” Please keep that in mind when considering whether this event is right for you.

Discord: Writers, artists, and anyone else involved in the event are all welcome to join our Discord for RQ Big Bang chatter! Links will be included in participant confirmation emails; please do not share these links, as they are created to meet our participant numbers.

Expected Conduct:

By signing up for this event, you agree to do your best to meet the deadlines. If you might need a little more time, please email the mods to explain your situation before the deadline passes. Those who miss deadlines without contacting the mods beforehand may be dropped from the event without further contact.

In order to participate in this event, you must be willing to contact the mods directly in the event that you have a question, concern, or issue with your participation (as in the deadline example above). We are happy to help participants with anything that arises, but cannot accept “telephone”-style communiques on behalf of others.

Be in regular contact with your match—if you’re going to be offline for a significant length of time, let them know. Radio silence from your match in events of this kind can be very concerning. (If you are having trouble getting in touch with your match, please contact us!)

Please take care to credit your artist/writer in your own final post.

Our Discord server has its own list of rules, which are listed within the server. If you decide to join the server, we require you to read and abide by those rules.

Be kind and courteous towards your match and fellow participants. This naturally means that all forms of bigotry and discrimination are prohibited, but even where those are not at play, you are expected to treat others with respect.

We, like Rusty Quill, have an “all headcanons are valid” policy. Harassment or mockery of those with different interpretations will not be tolerated. This does not mean you cannot discuss how you see the characters with others or that your artist/writer should not take it into account at their discretion, but insistence that any one interpretation must be adhered to is not allowed.

If you have concerns that a work or participant may be in violation of the rules, please bring it to the mods directly. Harassment of other participants (including but not limited to callout posts, name-calling, baiting, etc.), either publicly or in the Piles of Nonsense discord server, over their identities, fanworks, or headcanons will result in an instant default.

A full overview of the Guidelines can be found on our Challenge Guidelines page. We also have an FAQ.

The artist sign-up form can be found here.

Addition - Please read If surveymonkey is been rejecting your sign-up and claiming you haven’t picked enough fics, please try again, avoiding any fic with a note saying it’s been temporarily removed from sign-up.Temporary fic removal is a normal part of our sign-up process, but unfortunately surveymonkey is not functioning as it usual - instead of hiding the fics, it’s showing them but refusing to let people choose them.

Thanks for reading, and we look forward to working with you!

[rexoni93]

What is Dental Billing and Process?

Dental billing is the process of submitting and following up on claims with dental insurance companies to receive payment for services provided by a dental office. It involves the coordination between the dental practice, the patient, and the insurance provider to ensure that dental treatments are properly billed and reimbursed.

Key Steps in the Dental Billing Process:

Patient Registration:

Collect patient information, including insurance details and demographic data.

Verify insurance coverage and benefits before the patient's visit.

Insurance Verification:

Confirm the patient's eligibility, coverage, and benefits with their dental insurance provider.

Identify any co-pays, deductibles, and treatment exclusions.

Treatment Planning:

After the dental examination, create a treatment plan.

Inform the patient about the cost, including what will be covered by insurance and their out-of-pocket expenses.

Procedure Coding:

Use Current Dental Terminology (CDT) codes to document the treatments and procedures performed.

Ensure accurate coding to avoid claim denials or delays.

Claim Submission:

Prepare and submit claims to the insurance company electronically or via paper.

Attach necessary documentation, such as X-rays or treatment notes, if required.

Insurance Follow-up:

Track the status of submitted claims to ensure timely processing and payment.

Address any issues, such as claim rejections or requests for additional information.

Patient Billing:

After insurance payments are received, send statements to patients for any remaining balance.

Offer payment options to facilitate timely collections.

Payment Collection:

Accept payments from insurance companies and patients.

Update patient accounts and record transactions.

Denial Management:

Analyze denied or underpaid claims.

Correct errors and resubmit claims or appeal denials as needed.

Reporting and Auditing:

Generate reports to monitor revenue, identify trends, and improve billing processes.

Conduct periodic audits to ensure compliance and accuracy.

Key Challenges in Dental Billing:

Frequent changes in insurance policies and CDT codes.

Handling claim rejections or delays.

Managing patient communication regarding billing and insurance coverage.

Ensuring compliance with insurance and healthcare regulations.

Effective dental billing requires attention to detail, knowledge of coding standards, and efficient communication with insurance providers and patients.

Read more

[thecuddlymuffintop]

Tonight, at 7 pm CDT, I will be streaming the next birthday donothon goal stream, the Try Not to Laugh Challenge, on both Twitch and YouTube.

You're always welcome to join me when I am live with the following links:

Twitch

YouTube

#trynottolaugh #VtubersEN #vtubers

[creativemorningsaustin]

Creative collaboration is the engine behind so many of the things we love. And the creative teams that tap into it every day in entertainment, technology, and design understand the power of building something together.

Assembly Required is a short documentary exploring the particular challenges of creativity at work.

It features interviews from executives including:

Ed Catmull (Pixar)

Shona Brown (Google)

Gina Rudan (X)

and creative professionals including:

Nelson Coates (production designer)

William Joyce (writer/illustrator)

Leah Rama (fashion designer)

Ken Kocienda (Apple hardware designer).

Join us for a screening of the film (30min), followed by a panel discussion with the filmmakers led by CreativeMornings/Austin co-founder and filmmaker, Erik Proulx.

May 17, 2024 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM CDT

Assembly Hall 1121 East 7th Street Austin, Texas United States 78702

Registration is free, but space is very limited: https://cmaust.in/assembly-required-screening

*Note: This event is not in place of our monthly talk. Cosnider it a fun, bonus event. We will still be hosting our monthly talk the following Friday, May 24.

[patientselftesting6732]

Latest Research on Subsegmental Pulmonary Emboli Treatments

Subsegmental pulmonary emboli, though often challenging to detect, have become a focal point of research in the medical community. Advancements in understanding and treating this condition are paving the way for more effective outcomes. In this blog, we delve into the latest research on subsegmental pulmonary emboli treatments, shedding light on promising breakthroughs that offer hope to patients.

The Evolving Landscape of Subsegmental Pulmonary Emboli Treatments

. Anticoagulant Therapies:

Recent studies have shown significant progress in the effectiveness of anticoagulant therapies for subsegmental pulmonary emboli. Novel oral anticoagulants (NOACs) have demonstrated comparable efficacy to traditional anticoagulants with reduced bleeding risks.

. Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis (CDT):

Advances in interventional radiology have led to the exploration of catheter-directed thrombolysis as a targeted treatment option. This approach involves delivering thrombolytic drugs directly to the clot, minimizing the risk of systemic bleeding and improving clot resolution.

Personalized Medicine in Subsegmental Pulmonary Emboli Treatment

. Genetic Factors and Treatment Response:

Emerging research suggests a connection between genetic factors and the response to subsegmental pulmonary emboli treatments. Tailoring treatment plans based on genetic profiles could lead to more personalized and effective interventions.

. Biomarkers for Treatment Monitoring:

Researchers are investigating the use of biomarkers to monitor treatment effectiveness in real-time. This approach allows for timely adjustments to treatment plans, optimizing patient outcomes.

Integrative Approaches to Subsegmental Pulmonary Emboli Care

. Nutritional Support:

The role of nutrition in supporting subsegmental pulmonary emboli recovery is gaining attention. Research indicates that a well-balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods may contribute to better treatment outcomes.

. Mind-Body Interventions:

Incorporating mind-body interventions, such as meditation and yoga, into the treatment plan is under investigation. These approaches aim to reduce stress and enhance overall well-being during the recovery process.

Challenges and Opportunities in Subsegmental Pulmonary Emboli Research

. Diagnostic Innovations:

Addressing the challenges in subsegmental pulmonary emboli diagnosis remains a key focus. Ongoing research into advanced imaging techniques and biomarker identification aims to enhance diagnostic accuracy.

. Long-Term Follow-Up Studies:

The need for comprehensive long-term follow-up studies is being emphasized to understand the potential long-term impacts of subsegmental pulmonary emboli and refine treatment protocols accordingly.

The latest research on subsegmental pulmonary emboli treatments signifies a promising era in patient care. From targeted interventions to personalized medicine, the evolving landscape offers hope to those affected by this condition. As advancements continue to unfold, the importance of staying informed becomes paramount.

At patientselftesting, we are committed to providing reliable information and resources to empower individuals facing health challenges. Stay informed, stay proactive, and join us in navigating the latest developments in subsegmental pulmonary emboli treatments for a healthier future.

[medeasepmsolutions]

Optimizing Medical and Dental Billing for Maximum Efficiency

Efficient billing is the backbone of any successful healthcare practice. Whether handling billing for doctors in Maryland or managing billing for dental services, a streamlined process ensures accurate claims, timely reimbursements, and reduced administrative burdens. Understanding the complexities of medical and dental billing can help providers enhance their revenue cycle management and focus on patient care.

Understanding the Medical Billing Process Medical billing involves submitting claims to insurance companies to receive payment for healthcare services rendered. For physicians, especially in Maryland, accurate billing is crucial to maintaining financial stability. From verifying patient insurance to coding and claim submission, each step must be handled with precision.

Errors in medical billing can lead to claim denials and delays, affecting cash flow. Healthcare providers must follow industry-standard coding systems like CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) and ICD (International Classification of Diseases) to avoid common billing mistakes. Additionally, staying updated on Maryland's specific billing regulations ensures compliance and minimizes claim rejections.

Challenges in Billing for Doctors in Maryland The healthcare landscape in Maryland is unique due to specific state laws and reimbursement policies. Billing for doctors in Maryland requires adherence to both federal and state regulations, making the process more complex. Providers must comply with the Maryland All-Payer Model, which influences hospital reimbursement rates and impacts billing practices.

Moreover, changes in insurance policies and payer requirements often create hurdles in claim approvals. To ensure smooth billing, doctors and medical facilities should invest in specialized billing services that stay up to date with evolving regulations and payer requirements.

The Intricacies of Dental Billing Services Unlike general medical billing, billing for dental services involves different coding and insurance policies. Dental procedures are often categorized separately from medical treatments, leading to distinct billing challenges. Many dental insurance plans have annual maximums, which limit reimbursements and require careful tracking.

Dental billing also requires an understanding of CDT (Current Dental Terminology) codes. Incorrect coding or lack of pre-authorization can result in claim denials, delaying payments and increasing administrative burdens. To optimize revenue, dental practitioners should implement efficient billing software and ensure their staff is well-trained in handling insurance claims.

The Role of Technology in Billing Optimization Advancements in healthcare technology have transformed the billing process. Automated billing systems help reduce errors, improve accuracy, and expedite claim submissions. Cloud-based solutions allow seamless integration with electronic health records (EHRs), making the billing workflow more efficient.

AI-driven billing tools can identify coding errors, track claim status, and analyze financial data to optimize revenue cycles. For both medical and dental practices, investing in reliable billing technology can significantly improve operational efficiency and financial performance.

How Outsourcing Billing Services Enhances Efficiency Managing an in-house billing team can be time-consuming and costly. Many healthcare providers opt for outsourcing to streamline their revenue cycle. Professional billing companies specialize in handling claim submissions, following up on denied claims, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations.

By outsourcing, doctors and dentists can focus on patient care while reducing administrative workload. Expert billing professionals have extensive knowledge of insurance policies and reimbursement procedures, minimizing claim errors and ensuring maximum revenue recovery.

Conclusion Efficient billing processes are essential for the financial success of medical and dental practices. Whether managing billing for doctors in Maryland or navigating the complexities of billing for dental services, healthcare providers must adopt modern billing solutions to optimize revenue and ensure compliance. Implementing advanced technology, staying updated with industry regulations, and considering outsourcing options can help streamline operations and enhance profitability. Prioritizing a seamless billing process allows medical and dental professionals to dedicate more time to patient care while maintaining financial stability.

[somegalsandagame]

The Gals are back again to finish Deadlight! Join the Gals as they try to survive in a beautiful deadly world where a misstep means death

Tonight @ 9pm CDT

The world has ended. There is no hope. No new beginning. Only the survivors. DEADLIGHT follows the journey of Randall Wayne, a man searching for his family across Seattle during the aftermath of a 1980s event that has decimated life on earth.

This visually stunning Cinematic Survival Platformer will challenge you to run, jump, climb, and struggle for your life as you look for answers and the ones you love.