Abstract: A frame for positioning and labeling an appendage relative to an x-ray cassette during x-radiography. In one embodiment, the frame includes an x-ray transparent plate having a first surface and a second surface; and a protrusion positioned on the first surface. The protrusion aids in the positioning of the appendage and preventing the first surface of the plate from being in contact with the x-ray cassette. In still yet another embodiment, the plate includes indicia for positioning the appendage. Another aspect of the invention is a method for positioning an appendage on x-ray cassette including the steps of: providing a frame having an x-ray transparent plate having a first surface and a second surface; and a protrusion positioned on the first surface; placing the plate on the x-ray cassette such that the second surface is in contact with the x-ray cassette; and placing the appendage on the plate.

Abstract: A frame for determining the position and orientation of an x-ray source relative to an x-ray cassette during x-radiography. In one embodiment the frame includes an x-ray transparent or translucent plate having a first surface and a second surface; and a partially radio-opaque protrusion positioned on the first surface of the plate. In another embodiment, a method for determining the position and orientation of an x-ray source relative to an x-ray cassette is disclosed. The method includes the steps of providing a frame, including an x-ray transparent plate having a first surface and a second surface; and a protrusion having a radio-opaque portion positioned on the first surface of the plate, and placing the plate on the x-ray cassette such that the second surface is in contact with the x-ray cassette. The method further includes placing the appendage on the plate in close juxtaposition to the protrusion, exposing the appendage and plate to an x-ray beam, and examining the image formed.

Abstract: A method for providing a medical service in a therapeutic area requested by a client. In one embodiment, the method includes the step of defining a plurality of offerings associated with the medical service in the therapeutic area. At least one service category is associated with each of the offerings. At least one activity is associated with each of the service categories. At least one tool is associated with each of the activities. The method further includes the step of associating the offerings, the activities, the service categories and the tools with a respective plane of a hypercube. In response to the medical service, at least one location in the hypercube, which represents the offering, service category, activity and tool required to provide the medical service, is identified.