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Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center Joins VHA’s National Hospital Network to Accelerate Supply Savings Efforts and Operational and Clinical…

Posted on September 14, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: VHA

IRVING, TX–(Marketwire – September 14, 2010) – Boston-based Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, one of the East Coast’s most prestigious academic medical centers and a major teaching affiliate of Harvard Medical School, has joined VHA Inc., the national health care network. In joining VHA, BIDMC links with a large and growing network of hospitals and health systems across the country that work together to improve quality, increase efficiencies and control costs.

“Supply costs are the second biggest expense category in our budget. We’re seeking to aggressively manage costs as part of our commitment to provide the best health care possible in a responsible, cost-effective manner,” said Eric Buehrens, executive vice president and chief operating officer at BIDMC. “We are constantly looking to achieve and sustain supply chain excellence.” 

“VHA’s network includes some of the best health care organizations in the nation, so we’re excited to have Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center join,” said Curt Nonomaque, VHA’s president and CEO. “We have a demonstrated track record of helping health care organizations drive clinical and operational improvements and connect with other members to create mutual benefits. We look forward to doing the same for Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center.”

BIDMC began its search for a new health care group purchasing organization in 2009 as the organization considered ways to drive efficiency in response to toughening economic realities and the pending demands of health care reform, said Robert Cherry, vice president of Support Services. He noted that BIDMC spends about $300 million annually on supplies, but expects VHA membership will enable BIDMC to identify and achieve significant savings over the next 18 months on commodity products, pharmaceuticals, their top spend categories overall and endomechanical devices. 

About VHA

VHA Inc., based in Irving, Texas, is a national network of not-for-profit health care organizations that work together to drive maximum savings in the supply chain arena, set new levels of clinical performance and identify and implement best practices to improve operational efficiency and clinical outcomes. Formed in 1977, through its 16 regional offices, VHA serves 1,400 hospitals and more than 30,000 non-acute care providers nationwide. VHA was ranked by Modern Healthcare as the 7th best place to work in health care in 2009.

Media Contact:
Lynn Gentry
Email Contact

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

What Your Family Isn’t Talking About Can Hurt You

Posted on September 14, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: American Diabetes Association

During Hispanic Heritage Month, American Diabetes Association Encourages People to Talk About Family History of Diabetes

ALEXANDRIA, VA–(Marketwire – September 14, 2010) –  Good food, good music, and good conversation — three key ingredients to many Hispanic/Latino family gatherings. But what is missing from many of those get-togethers is a life-saving conversation about the family’s medical history. This Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15-October 15), the American Diabetes Association is encouraging people to discuss any family history of diabetes, a conversation that could help stop diabetes before it starts.

Type 2 diabetes disproportionately affects Hispanics/Latinos. In fact, the rates of type 2 diabetes are almost double that of non-Hispanic whites. More than 10% of Hispanics/Latinos in the United States have been diagnosed with diabetes.

“It is particularly important for Hispanics/Latinos to know they are at higher risk for type 2 diabetes,” said Lorena Drago, RD, CDE, American Diabetes Association volunteer. “It is common for families to have multiple members with diabetes, but they never talk about it. These family discussions are necessary so everyone knows their risk, especially the younger generations.”

If current trends continue, 1 in 2 minorities born today will develop diabetes. Oftentimes type 2 diabetes is not diagnosed until one or more of its complications have begun to develop, including blindness, nerve damage or heart disease. Hispanics/Latinos are at higher risk for developing these complications.

The good news is type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed with healthy eating and exercising. “By exercising 150 minutes a week, such as 30 minutes 5 days a week, and losing 5 %-10% of your body weight, you could reduce your chances of developing type 2 diabetes by 58%,” said Drago. “By making changes gradually, instead of all at once, you can stop type 2 diabetes from developing or stop diabetes complications from occurring.”

The American Diabetes Association offers various family-friendly resources to help people successfully make lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes or diabetes complications.

  • MyFoodAdvisor™ — Available in English and Spanish at www.diabetes.org/myfoodadvisor, this award-winning online tool provides nutrition information for people with diabetes, those at risk, and anyone who wants to lose weight. Users can track what they eat, find healthier alternatives and search recipes. The comprehensive database includes many culturally appropriate foods for Hispanics/Latinos.

    “MyFoodAdvisor can help you explore different types of foods. For example, eating one extra serving of fruits or vegetables a day is a small change you can make to get you and your family started towards a healthier meal plan,” commented Drago.

  • Feria de Salud Por Tu Familia — Feria is the Association’s outdoor community event which captures the festive elements of a street fair but maintains the important aspects of choosing and managing a healthier lifestyle for the entire Hispanic/Latino family. This family event includes music, dancing, nutritional information, cooking demonstrations and a variety of product and service booths. Visit www.diabetes.org/feria for event listings in your area.

    “Feria can arm you with information to help stop diabetes and its complications in its tracks. The event provides you and your family with creative ways to become active, new ideas for healthy recipes, and greater awareness of what resources are available in the community,” said Drago.

  • Stop Diabetes® — People from around the country are joining the Association’s movement to Stop Diabetes once and for all. By visiting www.stopdiabetes.com, calling 800-DIABETES, or texting* JOIN to 69866, you can find out how to become involved in the movement. There are opportunities for every member of the family to share, act, learn and give and help stop diabetes.

    “Whether you want to join the Stop Diabetes movement for yourself or a loved one, it is important that we stand up together against this disease and say the status quo is no longer acceptable. Too many people and their loved ones have suffered from diabetes’ terrible toll. Joining the movement is the first step to say enough is enough,” commented Drago.

    *Standard data and message rates apply.

The American Diabetes Association is leading the fight to stop diabetes and its deadly consequences and fighting for those affected by diabetes. The Association funds research to prevent, cure and manage diabetes; delivers services to hundreds of communities; provides objective and credible information; and gives voice to those denied their rights because of diabetes. Founded in 1940, our mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. For more information please call the American Diabetes Association at 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383) or visit www.diabetes.org. Information from both these sources is available in English and Spanish.

Contact:
Sarah Bradley
703-549-1500, ext. 2231
[email protected]

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

ECG Management Consultants, Inc. Welcomes the Return of Principal Franklin D. Campbell to Its Academic Healthcare Division

Posted on September 14, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: ECG Management Consultants, Inc.

WASHINGTON, DC–(Marketwire – September 14, 2010) –  ECG Management Consultants, Inc., one of the nation’s premier healthcare management consulting firms, announces the return of Mr. Franklin D. Campbell, Principal, to the company’s Academic Healthcare Division. Mr. Campbell’s return to the firm further expands the breadth and depth of expertise and geographic reach within ECG’s Academic Healthcare Division.

Commenting on the hire, Mr. Stephen F. Messenger, Managing Partner and head of ECG’s Eastern Healthcare practice, said, “It is great to be welcoming back such a talented ECG alum. Frank adds a considerable capability and experience to an already strong team of professionals devoted to the needs of our academic healthcare clients.”

Based in the Washington, D.C., office, Mr. Campbell will focus on academic healthcare/integrated system strategy, finances, and operations. As a proven academic healthcare executive and consultant, his experience includes specific expertise in strategic/business planning, governance and organizational design, financial analysis, and physician/hospital/medical school alignment strategies.

Since departing ECG in 2007, Mr. Campbell most recently served as director within the health industries practice of another national consulting firm focusing exclusively in services to academic medical centers and their component organizations: schools of medicine, teaching hospitals, faculty practice organizations, research organizations, and other academic entities, such as schools of allied or public health. Prior to this, Mr. Campbell served for two years as the senior executive with strategic responsibility for the Temple University Health System and Temple University School of Medicine. During Mr. Campbell’s initial tenure with ECG, he spent 10 years consulting to academic medical centers throughout the United States.

Mr. Campbell holds a master of health administration degree from Washington University School of Medicine and Olin Graduate School of Business and a master of business administration degree, with a concentration in Production and Operations Management, from the University of New Mexico, Robert O. Anderson Graduate School of Management. He completed his bachelor of arts degree at Boston College.

About ECG Management Consultants, Inc.
ECG offers a broad range of strategic, financial, operational, and technology-related consulting services to healthcare providers. As a leader in the industry, ECG provides specialized expertise in developing and implementing innovative and customized solutions that effectively address hospital/physician relationships, strategic and business planning, specialty program development, information technology, and the complexities of the academic healthcare enterprise. ECG has offices in Boston, San Diego, Seattle, St. Louis, and Washington, D.C. For more information, visit www.ecgmc.com.

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

SeaBridge Freight Corp. Completes Business Combination With TrinityCare Senior Living, Inc.

Posted on September 14, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: TrinityCare Senior Living, Inc.

PALMETTO, FL–(Marketwire – September 14, 2010) –  TrinityCare Senior Living (OTCBB: TCSR) today announced that it has completed the transaction anticipated in a definitive agreement for a business combination via the acquisition of 100% of the outstanding capital stock of SeaBridge Freight, Inc., a Tampa Bay area based company which is the pioneer in creating the U.S. Marine Highway Industry, providing the most environmentally friendly, safe, cost efficient container-on-barge, blue water, intermodal freight service through geographical advantaged routes. The stockholders of SeaBridge received newly issued shares of common stock of TrinityCare; management of SeaBridge assumed their role as management of TrinityCare and commenced the process of changing the corporate name to SeaBridge Freight Corp.

“This business combination with SeaBridge Freight is a significant milestone for TrinityCare Senior Living, Inc. that is crucial to the future success of the Company. We fully believe in their business model providing smart, efficient and environmentally friendly freight services to strategic markets, and are excited to be part of the future of SeaBridge Freight as shareholders,” stated Donald W. Sapaugh, former Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of TrinityCare Senior Living, Inc.

About TrinityCare Senior Living

TrinityCare Senior Living (“TrinityCare”) develops, owns, and manages quality senior living facilities that focus on enriching the faith of the residents and providing state-of-the-art independent living, assisted living, memory care and adult day care services in a single location. TrinityCare operates three facilities in Texas and Tennessee. For more information please visit www.trinitycare.com.

About SeaBridge Freight Corp.

SeaBridge Freight Corp. is the pioneer in creating the U.S. Marine Highway Industry, providing the most environmentally friendly, safe, cost efficient container-on-barge, blue water, intermodal freight service through geographical advantaged routes. The Company provides container-on-barge, break-bulk and out-of-gauge freight transport service between Port Manatee of Tampa Bay, FL and Port Brownsville, Texas. Utilizing a direct water route that is drastically shorter than a land route, the Company presents a more environmentally friendly alternative that economically connects the Mexico/ South Texas and Southeastern US markets. As a reliable alternative freight transportation option for shippers the Company’s services can be integrated with third party logistics providers, truckers and intermodal rail carriers to significantly lower freight costs. SeaBridge Freight Corp is headquartered in Palmetto, Florida.

Forward-Looking Statements

The information in this news release includes certain forward-looking statements that are based upon assumptions that in the future may prove not to have been accurate and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties, including statements related to the future financial performance of the Company. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations or any of its forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Factors that could cause results to differ include, but are not limited to, successful execution of growth strategies, product development and acceptance, the impact of competitive services and pricing, general economic conditions, and other risks and uncertainties described in the Company’s periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

For Additional Information, Please Contact:
Donald W. Sapaugh
Or
Tyson Wallis
Public Relations
281-482-9700

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

National Healthcare Reform Conference Announces Finalized Agenda and Speakers to Discuss Future of Health Insurance Under Healthcare Reform Bill

Posted on September 14, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA–(Marketwire – Sept. 14, 2010) –

Editors Note: There is a photo associated with this press release.

The Top Healthcare and Health Insurance Leaders in the Nation will gather in Los Angeles at the National Healthcare Reform Conference, September 20-22nd, 2010, together to discuss the negatives and positives of healthcare reform and the challenges and, obstacles and the health reform bill will have on the health insurance and healthcare industry. Senior Leaders from health insurance companies, consulting firms, and healthcare providers will for the first time to discuss the upcoming implementation deadline of September 23rd for some of the new rules becoming effective under National Healthcare Reform. 

Jonathan Edelheit, Chairman of National Healthcare Reform Conference said, “It is indeed a great pleasure to see that leading employers, insurance companies, governmental entities, insurance agents and healthcare providers are all coming to the congress to find out how healthcare reform affects them and what new rules and regulations they need to comply with.” 

Many leading private and government organizations have expressed admiration on steps taken by Mr. Edelheit and his team to create such an important and extensive congress. As the congress is the dedicated gathering of experts on important subject.

The conference will address issues such as the new mandated minimum loss ratios, pre-existing condition clauses, new rules and regulations employers, insurance companies and healthcare providers must comply with. The healthcare reform congress will also address new mandated benefit for employees and insured.

“Bringing together a dynamic and diverse group of health care leaders, government officials and industry experts, this Conference will engender thoughtful and timely discussion about how the landscape of health care is changing. I am pleased to be a part of this important opportunity to address the challenges and implications of the health care law for all Americans,” said Therese Vaughan, CEO of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). 

Adding more to the topic Mr. Edelheit, also Editor-in-Chief of the Healthcare Reform Magazine added “Undeniably, without the up to date information, many employers and agents will find themselves in non-compliance with the new law, and will not be able to evaluate positive steps. Hence, I am content to see that Insurance leaders are gathering to discuss possible challenges, opportunities and issues related to the country’s growth.

National Healthcare Reform Conference is organized by the National Healthcare Reform Magazine, http://ww.healthcarereformmagazine.com, which is the only magazine and publication that addresses the effect, outcome and the future of healthcare reform. 

The finalized agenda is available at: http://healthcarereformconference.com/agenda.html.

The finalized list of speakers is available at: http://healthcarereformconference.com/speakers.html.

2010 National Healthcare Reform™ Conference Speakers are:

Brady Jensen, Group Manager, Global Benefits, Microsoft Corporation

Dr. Joseph P. Annis, Secretary, Board of Trustees, American Medical Association

Dr. Therese (Terri) Vaughan, Chief Executive Officer, National Association of Insurance Commissioners

Robert Moffit, Senior Fellow in Domestic and Economic Policy Studies, The Heritage Foundation

Cheryl Matheis, Senior V.P. Health Strategy, AARP

Terry K. Headley, President Elect, National Association of Insurance & Financial Advisors (NAIFA)

Stuart Barton, President, American Seniors Association

William (Bill) Barcellona, V.P. Government Affairs, California Association of Physicians Groups

Dr. Raymond Fabius, Chief Medical Officer, Healthcare & Science Business, Thomson Reuters

Michael Gibbons, Chairman, National Restaurant Association

Neil Trautwein, VP-Employee Benefits Policy Counsel, National Retail Federation

Christopher Khoury, Consultant, Head of Research Healthcare Practice, Gallup, Inc.

Melissa Boudreault, Director of Dell State Health Services, DELL

Brian N. Anderson, Consultant, Milliman, Inc.

Michael Bertaut, Senior Healthcare Intelligence Analyst, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana

Janet Trautwein, Executive Vice President and CEO, National Association of Health Underwriters

Barry Hall, Principal, Buck Consultants

Devon M. Herrick, Senior Fellow, Ph.D., National Center for Policy Analysis (NCPA)

Lee D. Reichenbach, Market Manager, Hewitt Associates, West Coast Health Management Practice

Matt Hendrickson, MD, Vice Chair, PNHP, Physicians for National Health Program

Shelly Ten Napel, Senior Associate, State Coverage Initiatives, Academy Health

Craig Froude, President, WebMD Health Services

Eric D. Johnson, Regional Sales Manager, First Horizon Msaver

Rajiv Sabharwal, Chief Solutions Architect, Health & Life Sciences Practices, Infosys Technologies

Rob Thurston, President, HR Consulting Group

Ed Bray, Director of Compliance, Burnham Benefits Insurance Services

Andre Chasse, Director of Benefits, CoreLogic Inc., (Formerly The First American Corporation)

Kristi West, Sr. Manager, Benefits, SPHR-CA, GPHR,  Irvine Company

Kim Buckey, Compliance Lead, HighRoads

Denise Gott, VP of Sales,  LTC Financial Partners

Marcia Wagner, Principal, The Wagner Law Group

Greg Greenwood, PhD., MBA, President & CEO, Human Capital Specialists

David Ries, General Counsel, Human Capital Specialists

Andy Smith, M.D., Vice President/Chief Medical Officer, Saint Francis Memorial Hospital

Jeff Peters, President, Surgical Directions

Jean Patrick Tsang, President, Bayser Consulting

The National Healthcare Reform Conference is a stream of the Employer Healthcare Congress. http://www.employerhealthcarecongress.com . Together with four streams 1) Corporate Wellness Conference http://www.corporatewellnessconference.com 2)Voluntary Benefits and Limited Medical Conference http://www.voluntarybenefitsconference.com 3) Self Funding Employer Healthcare & Workers Compensation Conference http://www.selffundingconference.com and 4) the National Healthcare Reform Conference, The Employer Healthcare Congress is one of the largest US healthcare conferences in the country with over 1,000 attendees and up to 130 exhibitors and sponsors.

About the Healthcare Reform Magazine

The healthcare reform journal is a monthly publication focusing on how healthcare reform affects employers, insurers, insurance agents, healthcare providers and patients and will peel back the onion of the thousands of pages of healthcare reform bill to look at how different aspects of health care reform will really work.
http://www.healthcarereformmagazine.com.

To view the photo associated with this press release, please visit the following link: http://www.health-plan-news.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/d90c1a6dd8than08.jpg.jpg.

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Seminole County Public Schools Expand Revolutionary PediaVision(TM) Screening Program to Help More Students Tackle Undiagnosed Vision Problems

Posted on September 14, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: PediaVision

PediaVision Devices Deliver Breakthrough Technology to Quickly Screen Large Populations of Students More Efficiently; Accurate, Instant Results Help Children Get Immediate Treatment

LAKE MARY, FL–(Marketwire – September 14, 2010) – PediaVision, a company dedicated to solving the critical problem of undiagnosed vision problems affecting thousands of children, today announced that Seminole County Public Schools has expanded its vision screening program to help identify more children whose vision problems could potentially threaten their ability to learn and inhibit academic performance. The school system is expanding its PediaVision screenings and instituting annual exams to include even more children in the district. Fifty-one schools in the district are now screening their entire schools, not just required grade levels. Also, with the help of local doctors and VisionQuest, parents unable to afford vision services for their kids can now receive eye glasses and vision exams at lower costs.

According to Prevent Blindness America, one in four school-aged children has a vision problem significant enough to affect learning. If caught early, most vision issues in children can be corrected providing them a better quality of life.

Since August 2009, Seminole County Public Schools has screened nearly 5,000 students with PediaVision devices, referring approximately 25-30 percent of them to eye care specialists. PediaVision is the only binocular vision device that produces highly accurate vision screenings with instant results for children of any age. The software produces written results and recommendations as to whether or not a subject should be referred to an eye care specialist. Conducted from three feet away, screenings are simple, non-invasive and as easy as taking a picture.

Britt Smith, executive director for exceptional student support services for Seminole County Public Schools, says while school districts in Florida and across the country face intense pressure to improve academic performance, many simply don’t realize the severity of undiagnosed vision problems and how they can negatively impact students. He selected PediaVision because of its accuracy, ease of use and the ability to screen large populations of students without having to increase personnel. He urges school districts to re-evaluate current vision screening methods and consider state-of-the-art technology to help kids.

“Traditional vision screening methods are inadequate. PediaVision screening devices offer accurate, instant results allowing thousands of kids across the district to be examined by eye care specialists and reap immediate benefits. We want students to get the help they need and break those barriers. Unfortunately, we all find ways to accommodate vision issues without properly identifying the underlining cause of the problem,” said Smith who was shocked when his 15-year old son failed a restricted driver’s license vision exam.

“This wasn’t an issue of a parent not taking his child to the doctor or lack of medical care access; it was a matter of accurate detection. I would trust the PediaVision device more than any other vision screening method I know of, and I love that we don’t have to increase staff to screen more kids,” he added.

Esther West, 2nd vice district governor of district 49A, says Alaska’s main goal is to eradicate preventable blindness and has been responsible for more than 13,000 screenings in the state. For the last four years, the Lions of Alaska have used 14 devices and they recently ordered 12 more for their community health care center facilities in rural Alaska.

“With PediaVision, we can quickly tell if children have Amblyopia or ‘lazy eye’ and if we get them treatment early enough, it’s curable. If I had to compare PediaVision with our original screener, it’s the winner hands down. Before PediaVision, screening was a very cumbersome process because we had to wait for pictures to be interpreted by doctors to get results. With PediaVision, it takes more time to enter the data than it does to get results, and they’re very accurate,” said West.

She also said that it’s very easy to train people how to screen. “If you can type and follow instructions, you can screen with this device. PediaVision is unbelievable. It’s absolutely the best thing we’ve ever worked with.” 

West recalls how a PediaVision screening helped a student conquer behavioral problems in the classroom. “He frequently caused trouble because he couldn’t see. But nobody knew it. He was trying to take the attention away from himself so people wouldn’t know. We screened him and got him glasses. When I went back to the school a few months later, he ran up to me, grabbed my legs and said I was the lady who gave him his eyes.” According to national studies, approximately 70 percent of juvenile delinquents have a vision issue.

Wyoming also selected PediaVision for its Lions Early Childhood Vision project to reach large populations of children with developmental disabilities. The project is committed to ensuring all children in the state of Wyoming receive the highest quality eye care. Currently using 19 PediaVision devices, the state can now screen children in rural communities who are typically hard to reach.

Rebecca Allen, project coordinator, said they are thrilled with the device because it allows them to get quick, accurate readings even on the most difficult of children. “Children with developmental disabilities are 5 times more likely to have vision difficulties. In Wyoming, we’re working closely with parents and doctors to ensure that kids who are having vision difficulties are quickly identified and can get the help they need in a timely manner. With PediaVision, we trust the screenings. Parents are so ecstatic that they’re making immediate appointments for their kids to be seen by the eye doctor. We have very good follow up, and the kids who need help are getting it right away.”

PediaVision’s CEO David Melnik commented, “We are extremely pleased that schools and community projects across the U.S. have selected PediaVision. They are truly leading the way to bring revolutionary change in vision screening. Eighty percent of a child’s learning is visual, so a child’s ability to clearly see in the classroom is critical. We would like to encourage all schools, local communities, and national and state legislators across the country to consider new vision screening technology to help prevent vision problems in children.”

About PediaVision
PediaVision is dedicated to solving the critical problem of undiagnosed vision problems and transforming the lives of thousands of children each day by helping private medicine and public health systems provide thorough, automated and objective vision screening.

The company was initially founded by a team of optometrists and ophthalmologists. These medical professionals were confronted daily with the impact of permanent vision loss in children.

PediaVision has a proven technology and a management team with medical expertise and a strong track record of transforming industries. For more information about PediaVision, and to help the fight against undiagnosed vision problems in children, please visit www.pediavision.com.

For more information, please contact:
Dacrie Brooks
HighTech PR, Inc.
646.233.0629
Email Contact

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Mi-Co Receives SBIR Grant Award From the National Cancer Institute to Study Clinical Trials Data Collection

Posted on September 14, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Mi-Co

DURHAM, NC–(Marketwire – September 14, 2010) –  Mi-Co, the Mobile Data Collection company, today announced that it has received a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant award from the National Cancer Institute of the National Institutes of Health. The funded project is to develop a healthcare software solution in conjunction with Dr. Amy Abernethy, Director of the Duke University Cancer Care Research Program. The Digital Pen based solution will enable more efficient capture of medical oncology progress notes and clinical trials data, simultaneously. Mi-Co’s Mi-Forms for Digital Pen, already used in several Fortune 500 companies, leading hospital systems, and government agencies will soon provide even more possibilities for partners and customers in the healthcare arena.

The project titled “Clinical trials data collection during patient care using a novel technology solution” will begin immediately in conjunction with Dr. Amy Abernethy and other physicians at Duke University using Mi-Co Mi-Forms software technology and Digital Pen hardware developed by Anoto Group AB. According to Dr. Abernethy, “Within the Duke Cancer Care Research Program, we have previously used Mi-Co’s pen-based technology for our electronic data collection because it allows us to efficiently and accurately capture patient data, such as extensive progress notes, and share that data electronically with all members of the clinical and research team quickly and easily, in a way that supports our workflow and interaction with patients. Keyboard-based applications and regular paper simply cannot match the ease of use and efficiency of this technology, which solves a key problem for us and provides an important ‘bridge‘ from paper to electronic health records. Doctors are writers, not typers.”

For a recently released article about alternative data input options for electronic medical record (EMR) systems that suggests ways to overcome barriers to EMR adoption, please contact [email protected].

For more information about Mi-Forms and the Mi-Co solution for mobile electronic data collection in Clinical Trials and Healthcare, please contact Mi-Co through www.mi-corporation.com or [email protected].

The project described is supported by Award Number R43CA150466 from the National Cancer Institute. The content is solely the responsibility of Mi-Co and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Cancer Institute or the National Institutes of Health.

Media Contact:
Gautham Pandiyan
Director of Sales & Marketing
888-621-6230
Email Contact

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

An Important Update on Stem Cell Research in Toronto

Posted on September 14, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

TORONTO, ONTARIO–(Marketwire – Sept. 14, 2010) –

Attention Health and Medical Editors

On September 23, 2010, media are invited to an in-depth briefing with senior scientists on current stem cell research activity. Toronto’s McEwen Centre is one of the top regenerative medicine research facilities in the world and a leader internationally in the generation of reproducible heart cells. Research at the McEwen Centre also holds important implications for diabetes, lung disease and diseases of the blood as well as neurodegenerative disease.

Join us to learn more about the most recent developments in stem cell research at the McEwen Centre.

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Unity Health System Selects Sg2’s Smart Growth System for Strategic Planning Initiatives

Posted on September 14, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Sg2

Sg2’s EDGE Growth System to Reveal Profitable, Appropriate and Sustainable Growth Opportunities

SKOKIE, IL–(Marketwire – September 14, 2010) –  Sg2, a future-focused health care information company, today announced a multiyear contract with Unity Health System for the EDGE® Growth System.

Proactively planning for the needs of its patients is critical for Unity to succeed both clinically and operationally — particularly in the reform era. The EDGE Growth System is a combination of local, disease-based forecasts, value-based patient segmentation, monthly data reports, Sg2 expert-led intelligence and ongoing support and guidance. The EDGE System will help Unity identify and achieve smart growth — growth that is clinically appropriate, economically favorable, and sustainable across the full continuum of care.

An integral part of Unity’s strategy is delivering quality care to the appropriate patient in the appropriate setting. It will accomplish this with help from Sg2’s 10-year Impact of Change® disease-based localized forecast, which projects patient volume by MS-DRG, disease, patient type and service area for both inpatient and outpatient settings — an industry first.

“In today’s economy, local forecasting trends are essential to bottom-line success. As a community hospital, being fiscally responsible is more important than ever and the Sg2 EDGE Growth System will help us determine our smart growth path for the future,” says Wendy Wilts, vice president of strategic planning and business development at Unity Health System. “Our ultimate goal is to provide progressive and sustainable health care to the Rochester community, and the EDGE Growth System will allow us to identify and assess clinically appropriate and financially sound opportunities.”

Unity will also utilize the Sg2 Growth Index™, a score that examines how existing patient mix influences the ability to achieve future growth while meeting or exceeding the needs of the community. This will enable Unity to evaluate its capacity to capture smart growth opportunities at the enterprise, service line and disease levels.

Sg2 Chairman and CEO Michael Sachs says: “The EDGE system will help Unity Health System anticipate patient demand and uncover optimal market opportunities that span all care sites over the next 10 years. With a clinically meaningful view across the care continuum, Unity will be able to identify and achieve smart growth, which is critical in today’s trying economy.”

As an Sg2 EDGE System client, the Rochester, NY-based system has access to a portfolio of resources, including Sg2 University courses, Web seminars, on-site leadership discussions, clinical and strategic publications, expert opinions and networking opportunities. These offerings provide relevant information and thought leadership to support ongoing business initiatives.

About Sg2
Sg2 is a health care information company that provides expert-led, future-focused systems for growth and clinical performance. Our advanced analytics, business intelligence, education and publications deliver measurable value across the full continuum of health care services. Sg2 works with more than 1,000 hospitals and health care organizations in the US and around the globe. For more information, visit www.sg2.com.

About Unity Health System
At Unity Health System you’ll find the friendliest and most compassionate people dedicated to providing the best possible health care experience. We have over 70 locations in Rochester and Monroe County, including Unity Hospital in the town of Greece and the Unity St Mary’s Campus in Rochester. Key programs include our Joint Replacement Center, Family Birth Place, Spine Center, Diabetes Center, Chemical Dependency, and Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, plus the area’s most comprehensive range of services for older adults. ACM Medical Laboratory is the world’s fifth largest provider of clinical trials testing, with locations in western New York and York, England, as well as lab partnerships across the globe. Our shared commitment to delivering health care the way it should be is reflected in our 98% overall patient satisfaction rating.

Media Contacts
Marty Gilbert
+1 847 779 5547
Email Contact

Michelle Dary
+1 847 779 5568
Email Contact

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

International Hospitals and Medical Tourism Facilitators Get Direction from Newly Published Medical Tourism Books by Authoritative Industry Experts

Posted on September 14, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA–(Marketwire – Sept. 14, 2010) –

Editors Note: There are two pictures associated with this press release.

The medical tourism industry is witnessing tremendous growth in recent times, with such robust growth. In one hand many healthcare providers are willing to extend services to international patients on the other hand a growing segment of medical tourism facilitators (support services providers) are emerging to capture a piece of the pie in the industry. Even though both segments play an extremely important role in the growth of medical tourism, neither most of the hospitals nor the facilitators have mastered providing comprehensive services & care to patients because of the complexity involved in this business.

With the sole purpose of providing vital information to both segments at the scroll of their thumb, the leading industry pioneer & The President of Medical Tourism Association, Renee Marie Stephano along with industry expert William cook have authored two medical tourism and international healthcare books.

The first book, titled Developing an International Patient Center – A Guide to Creating the Best Patient Experience, is focused on International Patient Departments and creating best practices and the best patient experience for international patient centers. The book will also be an opportunity for existing international patient departments to implement best practices, and new procedures and protocols that will increase the patient experience and outcome.

The second book titled The Medical Tourism Facilitator – A Best Practices Guide to Healthcare Facilitation for International Patients is focused towards opportunities, challenges and issues for medical tourism facilitators, sometimes referred to as Medical Travel Facilitators. This medical tourism book will also provide a stepping stone for those individuals and companies who are interested in either starting a medical tourism business or those companies who are already in business but would like to improve their business practices and patient processes. 

“In the last few years, I have been requested by many organizations and individuals to provide them guidelines and references to help them to participate in industry. The problem was that there weren’t any resources out there for them” said Renee Marie Stephano Co-Author of Book and also Editor-in-Chief of the Medical Tourism Magazine. “Now, these medical tourism books shall play a roadmap and guide for those healthcare providers and facilitators that would like to attract and serve international patients. I am content that eventually these books will help hospitals and facilitators to serve patients better,” added Renee-Marie Stephano.

Both medical tourism books have already received remarkable pre-launch review from Industry giants:

“Global Healthcare management is one of the most rapidly growing industries in the world, and Renee-Marie Stephano ‘s role in understanding and managing that industry is fundamental. Renee-Marie Stephano and William Cook have done an excellent job in providing the essential guidelines and roadmap to the development of successful international patient care. I recommend ‘Developing an International Patient Center’ book to every institution working to have a place in Global Healthcare Management” – Abdalla Bashir, Director of Jordan Hospital, one of the leading hospital in middle east for international patient care.

Jerry Turney, President of the Consolidated Marketing Group, US based health insurance consultancy, said, “The production of this Facilitator “Best Practices Guidebook” is a critical step in the continued patient-friendly development of international medical tourism. This book should be considered required reading for everyone involved in or considering getting involved in a Medical Tourism program!”

Armando Polanco, President of Texas Benefits called the book, ” A bible in this burgeoning industry.” He also said I found this book to contain all of the fundamentals plus more ,in order for insurance companies, employers and agents to methodically move ahead in patient global migration. The importance of working with qualified facilitators is well described and lays the groundwork for such collaboration.”

“With over 7 years of experience dealing with international patients, I firmly believe this book leads global healthcare providers in the right direction of creating international patient center programs and services for attracting patients, as well as establishes international standardization to reach the expectations and requirements of international patients. I would like to thank Renee-Marie Stephano and William Cook for their contribution and passion to Medical Tourism. “Hwang (James) LEE, Head Manager of Wooridul International Patients Center, Wooridul Spine Hospital, Korea.

The International Patient Center Book, “Developing an International Patient Center, A Guide to Creating the Best Patient Experience,” is a guide for any hospital, medical center, clinic or physician interested in developing an international patient program and attracting patients. The book provides a fresh approach to getting your global patient program underway, developing streamlined patient protocols and case management programs to produce better outcomes, cultural considerations and the special needs and expectations of international, expatriate, and traveling patients.

The Medical Tourism Facilitator Book is a guide for any medical tourism facilitator, international patient coordinator or person considering offering facilitation services to international, expatriates, or travel patients. The medical tourism book provides start to finish guidelines and best practices for getting your business started, creating your patient protocols and case management programs, setting up healthcare networks, effectuating patient communication and education strategies, cultural competency and risk management considerations, marketing to patients, and working with hospitals.

Both books will be formally launched at upcoming World Medical Tourism and Global Healthcare Congress this September in Los Angeles. The books will also be available at Medical Tourism Association’s website at www.MedicalTourismAssociation.com

The World Medical Tourism & Global Healthcare Congress will have a joint VIP networking cocktail reception and party Wednesday Night, September 22nd at 7 pm at which the books will be released. The party will be in conjunction with the Employer Healthcare Congress where up to 1000 employers, insurance agents, brokers, consulting firms and healthcare leaders will finishing up their three day congress event on the Green Circle Terrace. For more information about the VIP After Party, please go at http://www.medicaltourismcongress.com/en/vip-party.html

About Co-Author – Renee-Marie Stephano, Esquire

Renée-Marie Stephano is a Founder and President of the Medical Tourism Association, also known as MTA, the first international non-profit trade association for the medical tourism industry. Ms. Stephano is Editor of the Medical Tourism Magazine and Health Tourism Magazine. She is also -author of the books “The Medical Tourism Facilitator” and “Medical Tourism: An International Healthcare Guide For Insurers, Employers and Governments,” and “Developing an International Patient Center – A Guide to Creating the Best Patient Experience.”

Ms. Stephano received her Juris Doctorate degree in Law in Pennsylvania. She has a background in international marketing and health law and then went on to open her own law firm, spending six years serving as general counsel for a US national healthcare administrator, which was the first US healthcare administrator to implement medical tourism into both self-funded and fully insured health plans in the United States.

Ms. Stephano works full time for the Medical Tourism Association and is considered an expert in medical tourism and global healthcare. In her role at the Medical Tourism Association, Ms. Stephano helps countries and hospitals in their medical tourism and global healthcare initiatives. She has helped many countries and hospitals achieve their goals of attracting foreign patients, international insurance companies and focus their efforts on increasing quality and transparency. Ms. Stephano also works with medical travel facilitators to establish best practices to ultimately ensure patient safety. She may be reached at [email protected]

About Co-Author – Bill Cook

Bill Cook is the International Department Operations Manager at Hospital Clinica Biblica in San Jose, Costa Rica.

In the years before becoming involved in medical tourism, Bill was devoted to consultancy work on issues of internet marketing and optimization tactics to improve visitor to customer conversion rates, mainly in the field of tourism. He has also written numerous articles related to tourism.

Through the implementation of a comprehensive customer-centric international patient program, Bill has been instrumental in positioning Hospital Clinica Biblica as one of most renowned hospitals in the area of medical tourism. His main interest has been to achieve greater customer satisfaction and to automate daily tasks with the goal of achieving a more efficient international patient process.

Bill is also an author, consultant and speaker on topics related to medical tourism and a regular contributor to the “Medical Tourism Magazine, published by the U.S. based Medical Tourism Association.

About Medical Tourism Association

The Medical Tourism Association™ (Global Healthcare Association) is the international non-profit trade association for the medical tourism and global healthcare industry made up of the top international hospitals, healthcare providers, medical travel facilitators, insurance companies, and other affiliated companies and members with the common goal of promoting the highest level of quality of healthcare to patients in a global environment. http://www.medicaltourismassociation.com.

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SafeShot Technologies Files Patents on New Low-Dose Version of Its Revolutionary Safety Injection Technology Called "Epiphany Ultra"

Posted on September 14, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: SafeShot Technologies

New Patent Makes SafeShot Technologies the World’s First & Only Developer of a Full Line of Safe, Compliant and Affordable Syringe Technology for the Complete Spectrum of Injection Drug Delivery Formats

MISSION VIEJO, CA–(Marketwire – September 14, 2010) –  SafeShot Technologies, LLC, a leader in safety syringe innovation, today announced the successful development and patent filings on a new “low dose” version of its revolutionary safety injection technology called the “Epiphany Ultra.” This technology allows for safe injections in 1ml and lower volumes using the same simple, single-handed vacuum retraction technology used in its larger versions. SafeShot Technologies Epiphany and now Epiphany Ultra are the world’s first and only available, full line of safe, compliant, simple and affordable technology that works equally well across the full spectrum of desired injection drug delivery needs, including pre-fills, clinical, home, consumer and immunization/vaccination.

The problem of infections and the transfer of blood borne illnesses due to injections have plagued the world for decades, causing needless suffering and deaths and costing the healthcare system an estimated $1.2 billion a year. SafeShot Technologies is focused on designing affordable safety technology to revolutionize the healthcare industry by protecting the nearly 1 million patients and frontline healthcare professionals who are stuck each year in the U.S., while preventing the global spread of HIV/Hepatitis which annually impacts 22 million people.

“This is a huge milestone for our engineering team and company because of the precision required in designing an ‘Ultra Low Dose’ safety syringe that is as simple and affordable as the Epiphany Ultra,” said Robert Beart, Emeritus Professor of Surgery at USC’s Keck School of Medicine and CEO of SafeShot. “Epiphany Ultra completes the entire spectrum of safe, compliant injection drug delivery in ‘all sizes’ while breaking the cost barriers that have prohibited healthcare facilities from broadly adopting the most effective safety technology for their facilities. Its innovative design saves time in training, administering injections, and we are proud to say, it will ultimately saves lives.”

The, Needlestick Safety and Prevention Act of 2000 requires healthcare facilities to create, maintain, and annually update information on commercially available technology designed to eliminate or minimize occupational exposure to blood-borne pathogens. Yet many healthcare professionals are still not being equipped with safety solutions to eliminate exposure to blood borne pathogens and sharps injuries.

SafeShot Technologies identified the five key characteristics of a safe, effective and affordable solution to tackle the global issue of needlestick injuries and spread of HIV/Hepatitis from syringe re-use. “Omitting any one of these characteristics in syringe development directly jeopardizes the ability to give a safe shot or eradicate the issues of needlestick injury and syringe re-use,” said Michael J. Madden, Safeshot Technologies Board Member and former Vice President of Advocacy and Development for Providence Health & Services. “I’ve been in the hospital business for a long time, and needlestick injuries have always been an issue for me and for the institutions that I’ve managed.”

The Epiphany Safety Syringe meets all 5 key factors to safe injection drug delivery, including:

  • The device must be “auto disabling” destructing after a single use
  • The device must provide protection from accidental needlesticks
  • The device must be safe through disposal, acting as it’s own sharps container
  • The device must not create a blood splatter or aerosol
  • And… the device must be affordable

With the global production of non-safety syringes in the tens of billions, a traditional reusable syringe can be produced for about 10 cents. Primarily due to the higher cost of safety syringes, hospitals have been slow to adopt the latest technology, despite legislation which mandates adoption of the best safety solutions. SafeShot’s Epiphany Syringe costs are comparable to a traditional syringe. The issues of accidental needlesticks, re-used needles, downstream injuries and biohazardous waste are directly addressed with this new innovation.

About SafeShot Technologies

SafeShot Technologies, headquartered in Mission Viejo, California, is a new generation safety syringe development company with the mission to solve the needlestick issue with innovative technology. The Epiphany Safety Syringe is the first patented vacuum-triggered, one-handed, single-use, auto-retractable, auto-disable safety syringe designed to provide superior value. SafeShot has more than a dozen U.S. patent applications and foreign counterparts in other major jurisdictions to address this growing problem. For more information on SafeShot Technologies and the Epiphany Safety Syringe, please visit www.SafeShot.net. Click here to follow on Twitter or Facebook.

For Additional Information Contact:
John Sperrazzo
Eye-To-Eye Communications, Inc.
858-565-9800
Email Contact

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Virgin HealthMiles to Focus Healthcare Policy on Prevention at Prominent Fall 2010 National Conferences

Posted on September 14, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Virgin HealthMiles

Company Executives to Speak at Colloquy Loyalty Summit, World Congress 5th Annual Obesity and Wellness Congress, 2010 Integrated Care Summit and 2nd Annual Retail Health Clinics Congress

BOSTON, MA–(Marketwire – September 14, 2010) –  Rising healthcare costs. Confusing healthcare reform policies. Under-utilized wellness programs. These are just a few reasons why HR executives, healthcare industry leaders, and policy makers seek insight from industry-leading providers with first-hand experience in how to make employee health and wellness programs effective and measurable. Virgin HealthMiles is at the forefront providing strategic guidance and practical steps to implement and sustain effective employee health programs.

Continuing in their thought leadership roles, Virgin HealthMiles CEO Chris Boyce and President Sean Forbes share their perspectives about the role of prevention in employee health programs at four national industry conferences this fall.

Forward-thinking businesses recognize that costly and preventable lifestyle-driven behaviors have the potential to spark a profitability crisis of epic proportions for U.S. companies. Healthcare costs are expected to rise by about 8.9 percent in 2011, according to a National Business Group on Health report released in August, continuing the trend seen in recent years. What’s more, 85 percent of companies believe simply extending insurance to Americans, a key feature of the new health reform legislation, won’t make individuals healthier, according to a recent study conducted by Virgin HealthMiles in conjunction with Workforce Management magazine. Insurance alone won’t solve the problem of preventable, lifestyle-related disease. Consider that chronic disease — the majority of which are preventable — account for 75% (or $1.5 trillion) of healthcare costs impacting businesses and their employees today. Keeping people healthy and out of the healthcare system in the first place will have the most significant impact on costs.

During the upcoming conferences, Boyce and Forbes will draw from their experiences working with more than 120 U.S. companies to engage employees to be active and healthy, and will share insights on why a new generation of prevention is key to helping corporate America get ahead of rising healthcare costs. Virgin HealthMiles’ Pay-for-Prevention™ approach has helped companies create a culture of health, align their interests with those of their employees, and design incentives for healthy behaviors. Results include above industry-average employee engagement levels, improvements in employee health, and decreases in rising healthcare costs. 

Details of each conference follow:

2010 Colloquy Loyalty Summit in Phoenix, Arizona
September 16
th at 3:30-4:15 p.m.
“Feeling Better – Using Loyalty Recognition and Rewards to Improve Wellness” 
http://www.colloquy.com/2010-summit-agenda.htm
Boyce will participate in a panel discussion on how loyalty programs are being applied to wellness, and how they can motivate employees to live healthier lives and reduce healthcare costs.

World Congress’ 5th Annual Obesity and Wellness Congress in Washington D.C.
September 30
th at 3:25-4:40pm
“Worksite Wellness – Why Employers Should Address the Obesity Epidemic”
https://www.worldcongress.com/agenda.cfm?level=inside&confCode=HL10088&agendaID=532&subAgendaID=1336
Forbes will participate in the closing key-note panel discussion on how to overcome employee resistance and facilitate positive behavior change with incentives to address the obesity epidemic. He will also address the “carrot versus stick” approach and creative strategies for motivating employee participation in employee health programs.

2010 Integrated Care Summit in Washington D.C.
October 15
th at 10:00-11:00 a.m.
“Creating a Culture of Prevention: Designing an Integrated Approach to Employee Health That Delivers Measureable Results”
http://www.dmaa.org/ics10/program_track4.asp
Boyce will discuss how creating a culture of prevention aligns the interests of companies and their employees to lower healthcare costs. He will also discuss wellness measurement strategies.

2nd Annual Retail Health Clinics Congress in Las Vegas, Nevada
October 25
th at 1:45-2:30 p.m.
“Retail Health Clinics and their Role in Employer Health and Wellness”
http://www.globalmediadynamics.com/upcoming-events/retail-health-clinics
Boyce will provide insight on how retail health clinics can directly bolster employee health and wellness programs. He will also discuss how to effectively utilize biometric data and other resources in order to measure and manage program effectiveness.

About Virgin HealthMiles
Virgin HealthMiles provides employee health programs that pay people to get active. The company’s Pay-for-Prevention™ approach, based on physical activity and healthy lifestyle change, attracts an average of 40 percent of employees who participate, which helps organizations reduce medical costs and improve employee productivity and satisfaction. The program is offered by employers, government entities, and insurers. Over 120 industry leaders representing more than 500,000 employees across the U.S., including American Diabetes Association, Intuit, MWV, OhioHealth, Ochsner Health System, Protective Life, SunGard, SunTrust, and Timberland have selected Virgin HealthMiles’ award-winning program for their employees. The company is a member of Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Group. For more information, visit www.virginhealthmiles.com

Media Contact:
Kathy Wilson
Email Contact
781-652-0499

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Davis B. Nguyen, MD to Reveal Results of FDA Clinical Trials With Fibrin Glue to The International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons

Posted on September 14, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Davis B. Nguyen, MD

“An Advancement in Plastic Surgery That Really Sticks,” Says Dr. Nguyen

BEVERLY HILLS, CA–(Marketwire – September 14, 2010) –  Plastic Surgeon Davis B. Nguyen, MD is pleased to announce that he will be speaking at The International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery conference in San Francisco on September 18, 2010. ISAPS members are nationally certified plastic surgeons in 91 countries who are dedicated to educating members in the latest procedures. Only one of two speakers chosen to address the international audience of his peers, Dr. Nguyen will be revealing his findings from the FDA clinical trials he recently completed examining the effects of Fibrin Glue in facelifts.

Dr. Nguyen, one of seven renowned plastic surgeons who conducted the Phase 3 Clinical Trials (efficacy testing) says of his findings, “Every now and then, an innovation in plastic surgery comes along that sticks. The recently completed clinical trials confirm that Fibrin Glue is a groundbreaking product that makes facelift surgery much more comfortable for patients.” Fibrin Glue is applied internally before the external skin is closed and stitched.

The clinical trials tracked 75 patients who received Fibrin Glue on half their face. The other side of the lift was closed in the traditional manner. The results showed the side sealed by Fibrin Glue swelled and bruised dramatically less. “Recovery is faster and more comfortable because drains, normally left in the face for 48 hours after surgery, are eliminated. Patients heal nearly twice as fast,” states Dr. Nguyen. Overall, patients experienced substantially less discomfort.

The innovative plastic surgeon is also one of the pioneers in using the miracle glue in browlift procedures. “The results are remarkable,” notes Dr. Nguyen. “A major benefit of using Fibrin Glue in the browlift is that the traditional ‘raccoon eyes’ resulting from bruising and swelling, are eliminated. This allows patients to get back to work and a normal life much more quickly.” 

Dr. Nguyen has been in the forefront of research on the benefits of Fibrin Glue as he published an independent study on the subject in 2007 with his mentor, renowned plastic surgeon, Dr. Frank Kamer of the famed Lasky Clinic. The study was so well received, it helped to propel the recently concluded FDA clinical trials, which validate the previous findings of Drs. Nguyen and Kamer. 

Dr. Nguyen is dedicated to providing his patients with maximum comfort and aesthetic beauty. “The use of Fibrin Glue has had a major impact on my practice. My patients benefit from shorter recovery periods, fewer complications and greater post-operative comfort,” states Dr. Nguyen.

Dr. Nguyen is dual Board Certified in Facial Plastic Surgery and Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. For more information about Davis B. Nguyen, MD, please visit www.drdavisnguyen.com or call 310-550-0288. Dr. Nguyen is located at 9735 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 216, Beverly Hills, CA 90212

Contact:
Helaine Ross
310-246-1872
Email Contact

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Ryerson Cites Information’s Value in Improving Hospital Profitability

Posted on September 14, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Ryerson Healthcare Consultants

AKRON, OH–(Marketwire – September 14, 2010) –  The upcoming months will bring a critical need for good, reliable information as America’s hospital CEOs brace for what many predict will be unprecedented change.

Hospital profitability improvement expert Peter Ryerson says education will be vital for hospitals to keep their doors open. As president of Ryerson Healthcare Consultants, he has knowledge and experience gained through working with more than 540 hospitals in 40 states.

CEOs’ biggest questions, Ryerson says, are related to the U.S. healthcare bill. Estimates are that as many as 15 percent of U.S. hospitals may go out of business because they will lack the ability to adapt to strains resulting from healthcare reform.

“They are very concerned about the Healthcare Bill as it relates to hospital profitability,” Ryerson said. “Many are worried about reductions in reimbursements and I hear a lot of questions about how to get better reimbursement, without being RAC vulnerable.”

The answer is simple but not easy, Ryerson said.

“If you do your documentation, coding and billing correctly, you will be OK. It’s as straightforward as that,” he said. “While that sounds easy, it is very, very difficult for a lot of hospitals.”

Ryerson Healthcare Consultants finds that many hospital profitability improvement opportunities are missed due to gaps in information and bottlenecks in communication.

“Much education needs to happen, especially with the changes that are coming. Administrators need to be better educated, to recognize what is happening in their own documentation and coding, and then improve those areas and communicate the critical need for full compliance, so they can improve their charge capture,” Ryerson said.

Hospital boards often are predisposed to sympathize with the notion that healthcare already is too expensive, and inclined to resist efforts to capture and bill for more services. “CEOs should understand that with proper documentation, coding and billing, they will be reimbursed appropriately, and then have the fortitude to step in front of their boards and say, ‘This is what we need and are going to do,'” he said.

“CEOs and boards must no longer delay in addressing these issues as our healthcare system drives us toward the major changes that are ahead. Their hospital’s profitability — and their ability to keep their doors open — depends on how well they manage through all of the uncertainties ahead,” Ryerson said.

Contact:
Peter Ryerson
Ryerson Healthcare Consultants
330-670-6900
[email protected]

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Vicor Technologies Names Christopher Vissman National Sales Manager

Posted on September 14, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Vicor Technologies, Inc.

BOCA RATON, FL–(Marketwire – September 14, 2010) –  David H. Fater, CEO of Vicor Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB: VCRT), today announced that the Company has named Christopher Vissman National Sales Manager, a new position. Mr. Vissman will be working from Nashville, TN, and Boca Raton, FL. Vicor Technologies is a biotechnology company focused on the development of innovative, non-invasive medical devices using its patented, proprietary PD2i® nonlinear algorithm and software. Vicor is currently in the process of commercializing diagnostics that accurately risk stratify specific target populations for future pathological events including cardiac death resulting from arrhythmia or pump failure, and autonomic nervous system dysfunction, and trauma victims in need of lifesaving intervention.

“We are extremely fortunate and gratified to have Chris join Vicor as our National Sales Manager. Chris has more than 20 years of sales management experience, with the last 10 of these — most importantly to Vicor — focused on our market niche. We are confident that having Chris leading our national sales effort will ensure successful roll-out and reception of our PD2i Analyzer™,” stated Mr. Fater.

Concurrent with Mr. Vissman’s hire, Vicor has contracted with 10 independent sales representatives to cover multiple territories, including New England, Annapolis/DC, Atlanta, Dallas, Manhattan, Boston, Las Vegas, Denver, Knoxville, and Tucson.

Mr. Vissman is an accomplished sales executive with more than 20 years of building sales teams, creating winning sales strategies, and managing multiple sales channels. Most recently, he was a Principal of Medical Technologies, LLC, responsible for the hiring, training, and management of a national sales team introducing new technologies to primary care physicians, cardiologists, and endocrinologists. Prior to that, he was President of Innovative Diagnostics, Inc., start-up creator of a cardiac autonomic neuropathy diagnostic, for which Mr. Vissman developed a 40-person independent sales team, marketing materials, sales processes and programs, and successfully negotiated a national GPO contract. Earlier, Mr. Vissman was the National Sales Training Manager for CardioDynamics. During his tenure, he re-designed the Company’s new hire sales training program, which led to a 71% improvement in first month sales and 29% improvement in first quarter sales, and developed an advanced sales training program for representatives with between one and two years of experience, incorporating principles and practices of representatives consistently ranked in the top 20%. Before that, Mr. Vissman was District Manager for Polymedco, Inc., where he ranked among the top five sales representatives (among 40-45) in monthly new business closes in all categories. Earlier, Mr. Vissman held senior positions with non-medical industry companies, including Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Global Aqua Solutions; Territory Manager for Sika Corp., and District Sales Manager for Lochinvar Corp. Mr. Vissman holds a BA in Industrial Marketing and General Business from Western Michigan University.

About Vicor Technologies, Inc.
Vicor Technologies is a biotechnology company creating innovative non-invasive diagnostics employing its patented, proprietary point correlation dimension algorithm (PD2i®). The PD2i® nonlinear algorithm is a deterministic, nonlinear measure of electrophysiological potentials that predicts future pathological events with a high degree of accuracy in target populations.

Vicor currently has three products employing the PD2i® nonlinear algorithm. The PD2i Analyzer™, which has FDA 510(k) marketing clearance, measures heart rate variability; physicians performing diagnostic tests with the PD2i Analyzer™ are able to receive reimbursement under existing CPT codes. The PD2i VS™ (Vital Sign), in clinical trials under a collaborative effort with the U.S. Army Institute for Surgical Research (http://www.usaisr.amedd.army.mil/), risk stratifies combat and civilian trauma victims. The PD2i CA™ (Cardiac Analyzer), in multiple clinical trials, identifies patients at risk of sudden cardiac death.

Vicor anticipates additional applications employing the PD2i® nonlinear algorithm to enable early detection and risk stratification for a variety of other disorders and diseases. Additional information is available at www.vicortech.com.

Disclaimer
The appearance of name-brand institutions or products in this media release does not constitute endorsement by the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command, the Department of the Army, Department of Defense, the U.S. Government, or the AABB of the information, products or services contained therein.

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
Forward-looking statements in this press release are based on current plans and expectations that are subject to uncertainties and risks, which could cause our future results to differ materially. The following factors, among others, could cause our actual results to differ: our ability to generate revenues from the sale of the PD2i Analyzer™; our ability to obtain FDA approval of our 510(k) submission to secure a claim for the PD2i CA™ (Cardiac Analyzer) for risk stratifying congestive heart failure patients at elevated risk of cardiac mortality and our ability to obtain marketing clearance from the FDA for the PD2i VS™ (Vital Sign) for military and civilian applications; our ability to continue to receive financing sufficient to continue operations and complete critical clinical trials; our ability to continue as a going concern; our ability to successfully develop products based on our technologies; our ability to obtain and maintain adequate levels of third-party reimbursement for our products; the impact of competitive products and pricing; our ability to receive regulatory approval for our products; the ability of third-party contract research organizations to perform preclinical testing and clinical trials for our technologies; the ability of third-party manufacturers to manufacture our products; our ability to retain the services of our key personnel; our ability to market and sell our products successfully; our ability to protect our intellectual property; product liability; changes in federal income tax laws and regulations; general market conditions in the medical device and pharmaceutical industries; and other matters that are described in Vicor’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009 and subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements in this press release speak only as of the date of the press release, and we assume no obligation to update forward-looking statements or the reasons why actual results could differ.

Release 10-15

CORPORATE CONTACT
David H. Fater
Vicor Technologies, Inc.
561.995.7313
[email protected]

INVESTOR CONTACT
Richard Moyer
Cameron Associates
212.554.5466
[email protected]

MEDIA CONTACT
Robin Schoen
Robin Schoen Public Relations
215.504.2122
[email protected]

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

INC Research Expands Global Medical Management Team to Maintain High Standards in Emerging Markets

Posted on September 14, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: INC Research

Medical Directors With Regional Expertise Join in Argentina, China and India

RALEIGH, NC–(Marketwire – September 14, 2010) –  INC Research ®, a therapeutically focused contract research organization (CRO) with a trusted process for delivering reliable results, has appointed three new medical directors to oversee the medical management teams in each region and enhance its high standard of scientific and medical support to global clinical trials. Dr. Claudia Trillo joins as medical director in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Dr. Rick Chen joins as associate medical director in Beijing, China, and Dr. Bhawana Awasthy joins as Senior Medical Director located in Gurgaon, Delhi, India.

“We are thrilled to expand our global Medical Management team with these esteemed physicians,” said Malcolm Fletcher, chief medical officer of INC Research. “By hiring very seasoned medical professionals who combine patient-care experience with trial-management expertise, our team is very good at understanding the investigator site environment. By immersing themselves into the safety and efficacy of a trial, they are able to make critical steering decisions that have a profound effect on the reliability of the results.”

Dr. Trillo in Buenos Aires has 14 years of industry experience in multiple indications. She started her industry career at Quintiles, followed by roles at Searle, GSK and Kendle. She trained in medicine at the Universidad de Buenos Aires, Medical School, and has board certification in Critical Care Medicine.

Dr. Chen in Beijing has more than 10 years of academic experience in ischemic stroke, cardiovascular disease and rheumatoid arthritis research. He is experienced in selecting and initiating investigate sites, providing training and performing routine site monitoring during the process of clinical trials, He has also contributed to furthering research education by publishing more than 10 papers in peer-reviewed journals.

Dr. Awasthy in Gurgaon brings 17 years of combined clinical-practice and clinical-research experience to INC Research. She is a proven leader both in Industry and among her medical colleagues, maintaining her specialization in oncology while designing, writing and implementing studies in Phase I through Phase IV on a global level.

INC Research’s Medical Management team is comprised of in-house physicians who provide round-the-clock medical monitoring services, as well as scientific and medical support for project management teams and investigative sites. The team has a diversity of backgrounds and specialties and covers the range from small proof-of-concept studies to large multinational pivotal studies with equal flexibility. To learn more about INC Research’s Medical Monitoring trial services, click here.

About INC Research® Inc.
INC Research is a therapeutically focused contract research organization (CRO) with a high performance reputation for conducting global clinical development programs of the highest integrity. Pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies look to INC Research for a complete range of customized Phase I through Phase IV programs in therapeutic areas of specialty, and in innovative pediatric and women’s health trials. The company’s The Trusted Process® methodology and therapeutic foresight leads customers to more confident, better-informed drug and device development decisions. INC Research is headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina. For more information please visit www.incresearch.com.

Media contact:
Kelly Foster
Email Contact
+ 1 619-224-1261

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Arkansas Methodist Medical Center Cuts Catheterizations by 21 Percent With Innovative Foley Catheter Management System

Posted on September 13, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Medline Industries, Inc.

Changing Clinical Behaviors to Minimize the Frequency of Catheterizations and Increasing the Timely Removal of Catheters

MUNDELEIN, IL–(Marketwire – September 13, 2010) –  Clinicians at Arkansas Methodist Medical Center (AMMC) are changing the way they assess and perform urinary catheter insertions — and it’s working. With the help of Medline Industries, Inc.’s ERASE CAUTI Foley catheter management system, which combines evidence-based principles and training with a revolutionary one-layer tray design, AMMC has seen a 21 percent reduction in catheterizations and catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI). Urinary tract infections (UTIs) account for 40% of all healthcare-associated infections according to the CDC. Urinary catheters are associated with the vast majority of those healthcare-acquired UTIs.(1)

“The one-layer tray design is labeled in a specific sequence that helps guide our nurses during the catheterization process to adhere to current CDC recommendations, including aseptic technique,” said Lisa Bridges, RN, Infection Preventionist for AMMC. “To help us reduce catheterizations, we are requiring our entire nursing staff to take the program education on the alternatives to catheterization. Plus, the new tray has a checklist to help the nurse make a decision on whether catheterization is appropriate for the patient and assure that the education transfers into everyday clinical practice.”

As measured by the number of catheterizations performed in March and April 2009 versus the same time in period in 2010, AMMC reduced the number of catheterizations from 192 to 151, a 21 percent drop (based on adjusted patient day). This decrease contributed to the hospital achieving zero CAUTIs in April 2010, compared to three in April 2009, according to Bridges. 

Another leading factor causing CAUTI is leaving a catheter in place for more than two days after surgery.(2)  The new Surgical Care Improvement Project (SCIP) recommends removal of catheters within 24-48 hours post-operatively. In the first quarter of 2009, only 20 percent of the catheters AMMC placed in the O.R. were being removed within two days. With the implementation of the ERASE CAUTI program, the removal rate increased to 50 percent in the first quarter of 2010.

“With the Foley InserTag and checklist sticker placed on the patient’s chart, nurses and physicians knew exactly when the catheters had been placed,” said Bridges, “and were able to remove them in the necessary 24-48 hours after surgery.”

Also, inserted in the tray is a patient education care card that looks like an actual get well card. According to Bridges, the card is a more effective way to educate patients about the procedure, including the risks and complications associated with closed system Foley catheters.

“Before, we had to print our education from the computer, and it was not something the patient or the clinician normally took time to review,” said Bridges. “The patient care card has significantly improved our ability to provide patients and families with a tool to help them better understand the proper care and maintenance of the catheter, signs and symptoms of CAUTI and how they can help reduce the chances of developing CAUTI.” 

AMMC, a 129-bed inpatient facility located in Paragould, Arkansas, has more than 200 nurses on staff. Almost 25,000 patients visit the hospital’s emergency room annually; a total of 4,196 patients are admitted; and physicians perform 795 inpatient and 1,827 outpatient surgeries. 

About Medline Industries, Inc. 
Medline, the nation’s largest privately held manufacturer and distributor of healthcare products, manufactures and distributes more than 100,000 products to hospitals, extended care facilities, surgery centers, home care dealers and agencies. Headquartered in Mundelein, IL, Medline has more than 900 dedicated sales representatives nationwide to support its broad product line and cost management services.

Over the past five years, Medline has been the fastest growing distributor of medical and surgical supplies in the U.S., serving as the primary distributor to over 450 major hospitals and healthcare systems. As a leading distributor, Medline offers a comprehensive array of consulting and management services encompassing the supply chain and logistics, utilization and standardization, business tools and enhanced reporting capabilities, and on-staff clinicians.

(1) Catheter-related UTIs: a disconnect in preventive strategies. Physician’s Weekly. 2008; 24(6).

(2) Wald HL, Ma A, Bratzler DW, Kramer AM. Indwelling urinary catheter use in the postoperative period: analysis of the national surgical infection prevent project data. Arch Surg. 2008; 143:551-557.

Media Contact:

Jerreau Beaudoin
(847) 643-3011

John Marks
(847) 643-3309

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Antimicrobial Technologies Group (ATG) Reviews Several Sites for Specialty Textile Manufacturing in Winston-Salem Area

Posted on September 13, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Grande Peak Technologies Inc.

CEO Simon Johnston Sees High Potential for Significant Facility and Business

WINSTON-SALEM, NC–(Marketwire – September 13, 2010) –  Antimicrobial Technologies Group (ATG) announces they had a successful series of meetings in Winston-Salem as they reviewed several potential sites for establishment of their textile manufacturing and finishing needs. ATG has developed products that provide infection protection and odor control at the highest level of safety, efficacy and cost effectiveness for anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal and anti-odor fabrics, fibers, plastics and paints.

Mark Fulk of Meridian Realty Group and Stan Cruitt of Grande Peak Technologies hosted Simon and members of his management team for their visit to the area.

According to Johnston the Winston-Salem and surrounding area has potential to satisfy ATG’s needs. “Mark and his team presented many attractive facilities to us for review and we do see a good fit,” says Johnston. “Although initially we may need a 100,000 square foot facility, our products are of such a scale that within a few years we could grow out of that space. We are very interested in creative thinking with regard to the RJR Whitaker plant.”

According to Stan Cruitt of Grande Peak Technologies, a specialty healthcare marketing company, the market potential for ATG’s products is significant and the capacity to utilize a plant the size of the Whitaker facility is not just a dream. “There are five very large textile related markets where ATG products can make a difference and gain substantial market share. The first is the hospitality and home linen market for sheets and pillow cases. Hotels and motels that provide odor free, bacteria free linens, which may also be prophylactic against bedbugs, will generate considerable demand and market presence. The second is the hospital specialty market which includes masks, scrubs, towels and linens,” Cruitt continues. “With more than 6,000 hospitals and 35 million patient discharges annually, the potential for high market share is driven by cost savings that hospitals can achieve. The third is the diabetic market for foot ulcer prevention. Nearly 23 million people in the US have diabetes and ATG’s socks for diabetics can help prevent the infections that often lead to slow healing wounds, and even amputations. No other product is available in US healthcare that provides continued control of the bacteria and fungi that lead to these problems. The fourth major market is the military for the supply of antimicrobial and antifungal socks and underwear. And lastly, the fifth is the sportswear market for sport bras, sport socks and more. Odor control, antibacterial, and antifungal are features that consumers will pay for.”

“We are enthusiastic about the possibilities and are looking forward to pulling together the necessary partners for creative planning,” says Fulk. “The opportunity that ATG brings could make Winston-Salem a primary incubator for specialty and medical textile manufacturing in the US and a major contributor for new jobs in our city. We believe ATG has the technology to back up the vision Simon Johnston has for his company.”

Johnston adds, “All of our products have the potential for international distribution which could lead to substantial exports from our North Carolina facility. Our technology is lower cost than other antimicrobials and longer lasting due to the re-chargeability feature. We prefer to manage all finishing and dying in the US but we’re also looking into the possibility of including the cutting, weaving, sewing in the facility for some of our more specialized products.”

About Antimicrobial Technologies Group: ATG has developed a number of patent pending and proprietary technologies that provide low cost, long-acting antimicrobial, antifungal and antiviral protections to a wide range of products including textiles for healthcare, sportswear, consumer, hospitality and other markets. Contact ATG at 425-891-9151.

About Grande Peak Technologies: Grande Peak is a healthcare marketing specialty company focused on launching new technologies into health markets. Contact Grande Peak at 336-414-9035.

About Meridian Realty Group: Meridian is a full-service commercial and industrial brokerage and management company based in Winston-Salem. Contact Meridian at 336-722-1986.

Contact:
Grande Peak
Stan Cruitt
336-414-9035

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

SRS Partners With Medstrat to Offer a PACS Solution as Part of Unified Desktop for Orthopaedics

Posted on September 13, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: SRSsoft

Integrated Solution Drives Productivity for SRS Clients

MONTVALE, NJ–(Marketwire – September 13, 2010) –  SRS, the leading provider of productivity-enhancing technology and services for high-performance physician specialty practices, today announced a partnership with Medstrat, the pioneer of orthopaedic PACS (digital x-ray) software. SRS will offer its clients an exceptional and innovative PACS system that is fully integrated with the SRS Hybrid EMR and the SRS CareTracker PM.

Capitalizing on its OpenPath™ technology, SRS will incorporate the PACS system so that clients access images directly from within the EMR. The product will be branded as the SRS PACS, powered by Medstrat, and will be implemented, supported, and serviced by SRS.

“PACS is another component of the SRS Unified Desktop that is essential for speed and productivity, and is particularly critical for orthopaedic surgeons,” says SRSsoft CEO Evan Steele. “We researched many PACS companies and selected Medstrat based on its dedication to orthopaedics and our shared commitment to customer service as the highest priority.”

“We are delighted to be working with the leading provider of EMR solutions for the orthopaedics community,” says Michael Cowden, Founder and CEO, Medstrat. “We look forward to jointly helping physicians provide the highest quality care and service to their patients in the most efficient manner.”

Michael Goebel, M.D., physician at Blue Ridge Bone & Joint Clinic in Asheville, NC, has been a successful user of both the SRS Hybrid EMR and Medstrat’s PACS system. “We are delighted that our two primary software vendors have formed this agreement to integrate their systems. Having a single product interface and support network through SRS is a big plus for us.”

About SRS

SRS is the recognized leader in productivity-enhancing EMR technology and services for high-performance orthopaedic practices — with the largest national network of orthopaedists successfully using an EMR. Its key products, the robust SRS Hybrid EMR and SRS CareTracker PM, offer powerful and flexible solutions that streamline clinical workflows and enhance patient care. SRS increases speed, frees physicians’ time, boosts revenue, and heightens patient satisfaction. Prominent orthopaedic groups overwhelmingly choose SRS because of its unique fit with the demands of their specialty. For more information on SRS, visit www.srssoft.com, e-mail [email protected], fax 201.802.1301, or call 800.288.8369.

About Medstrat
Medstrat originated digital x-ray imaging for orthopedic practices to meet the unique needs of the orthopedic surgeon and address the demanding challenges orthopedic surgeons face every day, including the pressure to reduce costs and deliver faster, higher-quality patient care. Based upon a proven, high-performing digital medical imaging platform, Medstrat allows for the elimination of film, chemicals, and processing, increases workflow efficiency and staff productivity, and provides significant cost savings. For more information, call 800-882-4224 or visit www.medstrat.com.

Media Contacts
Jeremy Duca
SRSsoft
800.288.8369
Email Contact

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

VHA to Recognize Member Hospitals Leading the Way in Sustainability

Posted on September 13, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: VHA

New Award Is Part of VHA’s Annual Leadership Award Program Honoring Excellence in Health Care

IRVING, TX–(Marketwire – September 13, 2010) –  VHA Inc., the national health care network, announced today that it will offer a new leadership award to honor not-for-profit member hospitals that are leading the way in developing and implementing outstanding sustainability programs. 

“Most hospitals in the U.S. are intensely focused on the care they deliver to patients but not always as focused on the impact they have on the environment,” said Michael Regier, senior vice president of legal and corporate affairs at VHA. “However, due to heightened awareness and commitment to the global and local communities, a growing number of hospital leaders are looking at their organization’s environmental impact and they are doing some pretty amazing things about it. VHA plans to honor those leading hospitals and encourage others to step up.”

VHA will recognize hospitals that have:

  • Shown a commitment to the development, implementation and promotion of a sustainability strategy
  • Developed a “best in class” sustainability program, such as on-site programs to save energy, recycle, reduce waste or conserve water
  • Measured and reported progress toward sustainability goals
  • Demonstrated a commitment to increasing awareness of its sustainability story in the community and/or among its employees

The Sustainability Excellence Award is part of VHA’s existing Leadership Award series that honors hospitals for excellence in supply chain management, clinical care and community benefit leadership. The new award is also part of VHA’s larger commitment to recognizing and advancing innovative sustainability initiatives through its own Corporate Citizenship & Sustainability program. 

“VHA, Novation and Provista have taken significant steps that not only support our mission but also make a positive impact on our employees, our member health care organizations and the community around us,” said Terri Scannell, VHA’s director of corporate citizenship and sustainability. “We’re proud that VHA’s own CC&S program has twice received national recognition, and we are excited to introduce the VHA Sustainability Excellence Award that will recognize and applaud our members’ efforts and great work.”

The Sustainability Excellence award program is open to VHA hospitals that were active members in 2010 and that have developed organizational sustainability programs and initiatives. To enter, visit VHA’s Web site and download the Sustainability Excellence Award overview, criteria and application materials. Awards will be given in two categories — one for large IDNS and one for hospitals, and winners will be recognized at the 2011 Leadership Conference in San Diego. 

About VHA — VHA Inc., based in Irving, Texas, is a national network of not-for-profit health care organizations that work together to drive maximum savings in the supply chain arena, set new levels of clinical performance and identify and implement best practices to improve operational efficiency and clinical outcomes. Formed in 1977, through its 16 regional offices, VHA serves 1,400 hospitals and more than 30,000 non-acute care providers nationwide. VHA was ranked by Modern Healthcare as the 7th best place to work in health care in 2009. 

Media Contact:
Lynn Gentry
Email Contact

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

GrowthPoint Capital Corp. Updates Post-Consolidation Holdings of Vigil Health Solutions Inc.

Posted on September 13, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA–(Marketwire – Sept. 13, 2010) – GrowthPoint Capital Corp. (“GrowthPoint”) is updating its reporting of security holdings in Vigil Health Solutions Inc. (“Vigil”), as a result of the one for twenty consolidation of the common shares of Vigil effective at the opening of trading on September 10, 2010.

As announced by GrowthPoint on August 17, 2010, pursuant to a private agreement, it acquired ownership on July 27, 2010 of $100,000 in debt of Vigil. Post-consolidation this $100,000 is now convertible into, 500,000 common shares of Vigil at a conversion price of $0.20 per common share, representing approximately 10.0% of Vigil’s post-consolidation common shares.

In addition to this $100,000 in convertible debt following Vigil’s share consolidation (and the expiry of 288,000 options prior to the consolidation) GrowthPoint and its affiliates also hold 496,450 common shares representing approximately 9.9% of Vigil’s post-consolidation common shares; 32,500 Deferred Stock Units representing approximately 0.7% of Vigil’s post-consolidation common shares; and 22,800 Stock Options representing approximately 0.5% of Vigil’s post-consolidation common shares. In aggregate, assuming the full exercise and conversion of the aforementioned securities, GrowthPoint and its affiliates would hold approximately 21.0% of the issued and post-consolidation common shares of Vigil.

In addition to owning or exercising control over the Vigil securities through GrowthPoint Capital Corp., GrowthPoint acts jointly or in concert with Greg Peet and GrowthPoint Ventures (VCC) Corp.

GrowthPoint acquired these securities for investment purposes. GrowthPoint may, depending on market conditions and other factors as well as applicable securities laws, acquire additional securities of Vigil through the facilities of the TSX Venture Exchange, private agreements or otherwise. GrowthPoint may, depending on market conditions, sell any or all of its common shares of Vigil.

For additional information, or for a copy of the early warning report filed in respect of the above transaction, please please see contact information below.

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Seegene Raises USD 16.6 Million in Initial Public Offering on KOSDAQ

Posted on September 13, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Seegene

ROCKVILLE, MD and SEOUL, KOREA–(Marketwire – September 13, 2010) –  Seegene today announced its successful initial public offering on the KOSDAQ (Korea Securities Dealers Automated Quotations). The company sold 636,500 shares for USD 26.16 (WON 30,500) each, raising USD 16.6 million and giving Seegene a market capitalization of USD 167 million. The company plans to invest the fresh capital in expanding its international market presence, with an emphasis on United States and Japan, where it is seeking regulatory approval for its portfolio of multiplex diagnostic PCR tests.

“This is an exciting day for Seegene, and marks a significant step toward our goal of being a leading global player in the molecular diagnostic industry,” said Jong-Yoon Chun, Chief Executive Officer of Seegene. “The capital that we raised will support the growing demand for our powerful multiplex diagnostic tests.”

Since 2007 Seegene has been growing sales at annualized growth rate of 170 percent. This rapid growth rate continues with sales of USD 9.5 million in the first half of 2010, compared to total 2009 sales of USD 11.2 million.

“Our products are defining a new category molecular diagnostics that are capable of simultaneously detecting multiple pathogens or genetic mutations in a single test. Using Seegene’s products, medical professionals are able to improve patient care by making accurate diagnoses faster, and more cost-effectively.”

The effectiveness of Seegene’s diagnostic testing technology was shown in the 2009 pandemic outbreak of (H1N1). While many molecular diagnostic firms responded to this flu outbreak by introducing individual kits that separately tested for each variant of Influenza A (H1, H3 , H5, and new H1N1), Seegene delivered a multiplex PCR test that simultaneously detected each flu subtype as well as the new H1N1 strain. Furthermore, the Seegene PCR test detected these strains with higher accuracy, specificity and sensitivity.

In July of this year at the AACC Clinical Lab Expo in Los Angeles, CA, Seegene introduced other multiplex molecular diagnostic tests — Magicplex™ and Anyplex™ — based on the company’s powerful READ™ (Real Amplicon Detection) technology:

Magicplex Sepsis, a multi-pathogen screening test that quickly and accurately identifies over 90 leading sepsis-causing pathogens, and Anyplex MDR-TB, a test that identifies Tuberculosis (TB) and genetic mutations causing TB resistance to the drugs isoniazid and rifampicin.

Chun added, “The market response to our READ technology and our new line of Magicplex and Anyplex tests has been extremely positive. We are in discussions with over 20 companies who are interested in licensing the technology or distributing these products in markets worldwide.”

“Later this year Seegene plans to introduce new Magicplex blood-screening and tumor detection tests, as well as a complete automated testing system. As we continue to grow our worldwide market presence, we will seek a NASDAQ listing after approximately three years,” he concluded.

About Seegene

Seegene, Inc. is a leading molecular diagnostics company developing, manufacturing and marketing innovative “multiplex” (or “multi-pathogen detection”) molecular diagnostic products and services. It holds proprietary technologies of both PCR and Real-time PCR named ACP™, DPO™, and READ™, which sets a standard in high-throughput and simultaneous multi-pathogen detection called “multiplex PCR.” The novel multiplex Real-time PCR technology, READ™, overcomes the limitations of conventional Real-time PCR, providing dramatic improvement in sensitivity and specificity. Seegene holds three novel Molecular diagnostic platforms: Seeplex® system adapting DPO™ Technology, Anyplex® and Magicplex® system which are Real-time PCR detection platform adapting DPO™ and READ™ Technology. Seegene’s products detect multi-pathogens with great reliability and throughput, ultimately providing the most economical basis for saving time, labor and cost. Seegene’s mission is to maintain leadership in molecular diagnostics for infectious diseases, genetics, pharmacogenetics, and oncology using innovative proprietary technologies.

For more information please visit www.seegene.com or call +301-762-9066.

Contacts:
Miyoun Lee, MSc
Seegene Inc.
301-762-9066
or
Constantine Theodoropulos
Base Pair Communications
617-816-4637

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

SixLog(TM) to Showcase Innovative Room Disinfection/Sterilization Technology at ASHES 2010

Posted on September 13, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: SixLog Corporation

SANTA ANA, CA–(Marketwire – September 13, 2010) –  SixLog Corporation, an Astro Pak company providing on-site room disinfection and sterilization services, today announced it will showcase its revolutionary iHP™ (ionized Hydrogen Peroxide) technology at the American Society for Healthcare Environmental Services (ASHES) annual conference from September 27-28 at booth #536 at the Gaylord National Resort in National Harbor, Maryland.

SixLog provides room disinfection and sterilization services using its patented misting system to effectively eradicate microorganisms such as Clostridium difficile (C. diff), Vancomycin-resistant enterococcus (VRE), Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Acinetobacter and other multi drug-resistant organisms (MDROs). This spore-killing iHP™ system is the next-generation of hydrogen peroxide fogging systems that successfully eliminates pathogens from all environmental surfaces and is faster and more cost effective than alternatives. SixLog’s room disinfection and sterilization services can easily augment hospitals’ terminal cleaning protocol and place current practices at the cutting edge of infection control. 

“I am excited to attend ASHES and demonstrate our new room sterilization technology,” says Vanessa Valdez, general manager of SixLog. “Environmental services (ES) departments across the nation are looking for innovative solutions to eradicate the growth of infection-producing organisms. SixLog’s iHP™ room sterilization technology enables ES professionals to quickly and effectively deploy a service that will have a fast impact on reducing the number of HAIs. We offer fully integrated and customized solutions for preventative room sterilization and/or outbreak control.”

In addition the proven efficacy of iHP™, it is also compatible with patient support equipment, including sensitive electronics, as it is noncorrosive. iHP™ leaves no residue behind, and upon completion, breaks down into just water and oxygen making it safe for staff, patients and visitors as well as the environment. A few examples of iHP™ room disinfection/sterilization applications include:

  • Emergency and patient rooms
  • Isolation rooms
  • Intensive care units
  • Surgical suites
  • Tissue culture labs
  • Bone marrow transplant suites
  • Blood banks
  • Sputum induction areas

For more information about SixLog’s iHP™ technology or to view it in action, please visit SixLog at booth #536 at ASHES 2010 during September 27-28 at the Gaylord National Resort in National Harbor, Maryland, or contact us at [email protected] or 877-4SIXLOG (474-9564).

About SixLog Corporation
SixLog provides on-site biological decontamination for equipment, rooms, entire buildings, and modes of transportation such as ambulances, trains, and cruise ships. Its proprietary iHP™ (ionized Hydrogen Peroxide) decontamination technology is utilized across a variety of industries including Life Sciences, Pharmaceutical, Healthcare, First Responders, Transportation, and Public Facilities. SixLog is privately held with headquarters in Santa Ana, CA. For more information, please visit www.sixlog.com.

Editorial Contact
Jolene Harlan
Marketing Communications Manager
Astro Pak Corporation
(949) 270-0884

Click here to see all recent news from this company

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Elsass Elected to U.S. RE Companies Board

Posted on September 13, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: U.S. RE Companies, Inc.

PEARL RIVER, NY–(Marketwire – September 13, 2010) –  Sanford “Sandy” Elsass, President of Uni-Ter Underwriting Management Corporation (UUMC), has been elected a Director of U.S. RE Companies, Inc., an international financial services and reinsurance brokerage firm, Tal P. Piccione, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, announced.

UUMC is a subsidiary of U.S. RE Companies that builds and manages Risk Retention Groups in the healthcare industry. The RRGs provide general and professional liability insurance to long-term care facilities, physicians/surgeons, nurses, other healthcare professionals, and related businesses in 48 states. Elsass joined the U.S. RE Group in 2002. He also serves as a senior officer of U.S. RE.

“Sandy Elsass has built Uni-Ter into a major profit center. His rich experience in brokerage management and investment banking will be invaluable to our Board as U.S. RE grows,” Piccione said.

Elsass has been in the insurance industry and related business for 30 years. He serves currently as a Director of the Nevada Captive Insurance Association, the National Risk Retention Association, and Sunshine State Insurance Company of Florida. Prior to joining U.S. RE, he was an investment banker with Marsh Berry and Company. Earlier, he was President of Montgomery & Collins, a wholesale insurance broker that was sold to Marsh & McLennan. Elsass is a former Director of Wainwright Bank & Trust Company, Boston. He is a graduate of Ohio University.

For more information, contact
Mechlin Moore
MDM Communications
239-777-1595
Email Contact

Click here to see all recent news from this company

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

FDAAdvisoryCommittee.com to Webcast Hearings on New Weight Loss Drugs MERIDIA and LORQESS

Posted on September 13, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: TalkPoint

Two-Day Meeting of the Endocrinologic and Metabolic Drugs Advisory Committee Will Be Streamed Live and Archived for Six Months

NEW YORK, NY–(Marketwire – September 13, 2010) –  FDAAdvisoryCommittee.com (FDAAC.com), a provider of live video webcasts of Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Advisory Committee meetings, today announced that it will webcast the Endocrinologic and Metabolic Drugs Advisory Committee’s discussions on the cardiovascular implications for Meridia® as well as the safety and efficacy of Lorqess®. The Meridia meeting is scheduled for September 15, 2010 from 8:00 a.m. ET to 5:00 p.m. ET. The Lorqess meeting will be held on September 16, 2010 from 8:00 a.m. ET to 5:00 pm. ET. 

On September 15, Abbott Laboratories’ new weight loss drug Meridia comes under review as experts discuss the results of clinical trials that evaluated the potential benefits of weight loss with the drug on major cardiovascular adverse events. Meridia acts as an appetite suppressant in combination with a diet and exercise regimen.

The Committee will review the safety and efficacy of Lorqess, Arena Pharmaceuticals’ new diet pill, on September 16. The drug acts as an appetite suppressant and works in conjunction with diet and exercise for obese patients as determined by body mass index (BMI).

Audience members, including biotech equity analysts, pharmaceutical employees, and journalists will be able to watch from anywhere in the world as the Committee reviews Meridia and Lorqess. FDAAC.com will webcast the meeting live and on location from the Inn and Conference Center at the University of Maryland University College.

FDAAC.com is committed to delivering the highest quality of video and experience. By utilizing h.264 encoding in conjunction with Flash Media, FDAAC.com’s webcasts deliver a near instantaneous stream. These high-quality streams can be accessed from anywhere around the globe and are archived for six months after the live event for unlimited review.

FDAAC.com‘s webcasts are powered by TalkPoint, a provider of Web-based audio and video Webcasting solutions and services. With over a decade of experience, TalkPoint has developed the most robust, scalable, interactive webcasting platform in the industry. TalkPoint’s easy-to-use applications incorporate audio, video, slides, and other interactive elements to deliver high-impact webcasts cost-effectively.

To join the webcasts on September 15 and 16 at 8 a.m. ET register at http://fdaac.com

About FDAAdvisoryCommittee.com
FDAAC.com provides live video webcasts of FDA Advisory Committee meetings captured on location. These meetings cover an array of topics related to medicinal health including OTC, prescription and treatment devices. Very often meetings will result in rulings on clinical trials, final approval and bans of medications and treatment options. TalkPoint is the exclusive webcast provider for FDAAdvisoryCommitte.com.

For more information on FDAAC.com, go to www.fdaac.com.

Media Contacts:
Richard Taber
FDAAdvisoryCommittee.com
Tel: (800) 627-8171
Email Contact

Susan Kiddy
LVA Communications
Tel: (860) 739-5598
Email: Email Contact

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Stellar Biotechnologies anuncia marco de cooperação com a Bayer Innovation

Posted on September 13, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

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Um marco essencial para a viabilidade do projeto foi alcançado com o “Acordo de Desenvolvimento Conjunto”. Sob os termos do acordo, a Stellar Biotechnologies fornece o Keyhole Limpet Hemocyanin (KLH) que é acoplado com a proteína idiotipo produzida pelas plantas de tabaco. O KLH é uma proteína imunoestimulante altamente potente, que faz com que os linfócitos pensem que até mesmo as proteínas mais familiares sejam consideradas estranhas. Durante a resposta imunológica que ocorre, os linfócitos se concentram principalmente na sequência de peptídeo do idiotipo anexado ao tumor. Esta molécula transportadora chamada de imunogênica tem origem exclusivamente da rara hemocianina do caramujo Megathura crenulata, e a Stellar possui a tecnologia para a manutenção do animal, a extração não-letal da molécula crítica e um processo de refinamento lucrativo da KLH.

Com o consentimento das duas partes, a Stellar receberá um pagamento marco da BIG, e o acordo de co-desenvolvimento está sendo ampliado e continua a alcançar marcos de pontos finais importantes que podem ser essenciais para os interesses da Bayer nas vacinas terapêuticas baseado no seu sistema de expressão de proteína de plantas, a tecnologia magnICON(R).

O Dr. John Butler, Líder do Projeto Global de Produtos Farmacêuticos de Plantas (PMP) da Bayer, disse: “Estamos contentes em atingir este marco importante e apreciamos o trabalho que fizemos com a equipe científica de talento da Stellar, liderado pelo Professor Daniel Morse. Juntamente com os cientistas e engenheiros da Bayer, acreditamos que tivemos um impacto substancial na estrutura de custo potencial e na eficácia e sustentabilidade da produção da nossa vacina. A garantia de um fornecimento sustentável de KLH a longo prazo é um elemento-chave do nosso trabalho de habilitar uma nova terapia que possa beneficiar significantemente os resultados da doença e a qualidade de vida dos pacientes NHL”.

Frank Oakes, CEO da Stellar, disse: “A Stellar foi honrada com a oportunidade desta parceria com a equipe de ponta da Bayer Innovation, e agora, de levar este novo relacionamento para o próximo nível. A Bayer Innovation é uma das participantes mais consideradas da área PMP, e acreditamos que a credibilidade vem do nosso trabalho com as grandes empresas internacionais de biotecnologia, ciências de materiais e produtos farmacêuticos. Estamos empolgados com a oportunidade de ampliar este relacionamento, e o potencial de explorar oportunidades de desenvolvimento de negócios futuros com a Bayer Innovation”.

Bayer Innovation GmbH (BIG — http://www.bayer-innovation.com/en/homepage.aspx) faz parte da estratégia de inovação da Bayer e complementa as atividades de inovação de diferentes subgrupos das áreas de cuidado da saúde, nutrição e materiais de alta qualidade. O seu objetivo é identificar e desenvolver novas oportunidades de crescimento, preparando a entrada em mercados novos e em expansão. Atualmente ela está concentrada na tecnologia médica e na produção de produtos farmacêuticos feitos de planta.

Stellar Biotechnologies, Inc. (TSX-V: KLH) (PINKSHEETS: SBOTF) (www.StellarBiotechnologies.com) é líder mundial de manufatura sustentável de proteínas transportadoras de imunidade (ICP), principalmente em relação à proteína farmacêutica mais importante da sua classe, KLH (Keyhole Limpet Hemocyanin). Esta proteína antiga evolutiva tem uma estrutura altamente complexa, tornando-a ideal para uso em vacinas de uso humano e animal, e produtos de diagnóstico. Com parceiros e clientes, seus produtos KLH principais da Stellar estão na clínica e a caminho de se tornar a única fonte farmacêutica de longo termo sustentável.

As declarações deste press release, além da informação de fatos puramente históricos, incluindo as declarações com relação a receita ou lucros, ou os planos e objetivos futuros da Empresa, ou vendas previstas, fluxo de caixa e gastos de capital, constituem declarações de previsão. As declarações de previsão são baseadas em várias suposições e estão sujeitas a todos os riscos e incertezas inerentes aos negócios da Empresa, incluindo os riscos inerentes à história da tecnologia. Não há nenhuma garantia de que tais declarações de previsão sejam corretas, pois os resultados e eventos atuais e futuros podem ser substancialmente diferentes dos resultados previstos por tais declarações. Por isso, os leitores não devem contar muito com tais declarações. Com exceção das leis de títulos mobiliários, a Empresa rejeita qualquer obrigação de atualizar tais declarações de previsão ou declarações de previsão que estão incorporadas a este documento por referência. Este press release não é uma oferta de venda nem uma solicitação de oferta de compra de quaisquer títulos mobiliários da Empresa dos EUA, ou para o benefício ou em nome de uma pessoa americana ou dos EUA. Nem a TSX Venture Exchange nem a sua Regulation Services Provider (de acordo com o termo definido nas políticas da TSX Venture Exchange) são responsáveis pela adequação ou correção deste release.

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Stellar Biotechnologies alcanza logro en colaboración con Bayer Innovation

Posted on September 13, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

BYRB).

Un logro decisivo del proyecto de factibilidad en el “Acuerdo de Desarrollo Conjunto” ha sido alcanzado. Bajo los términos del acuerdo, Stellar Biotechnologies provee la proteína hemocianina de Megathura crenulata (lapa californiana) (KLH) que se une a la proteína idiotípica producida en las plantas del tabaco. KLH es una proteína inmunoestimulante altamente potente, que estimula los linfocitos para reconocer aún las proteínas familiares anexas como extrañas. Durante la respuesta inmune consiguiente, los linfocitos se enfocan principalmente en la secuencia del péptido del idiotipo del tumor anexo. Esta llamada molécula portadora inmunogenética viene exclusivamente de la hemocianina de Megathura crenulata rara y Stellar cuenta con la tecnología para el mantenimiento de la extracción del animal, la extracción no letal de la molécula crítica y un proceso de refinamiento de KLH rentable.

Por mutuo consentimiento de las partes, Stellar recibirá un pago por el logro de BIG, y el acuerdo de codesarrollo se extiende y continua en marcha para obtener nuevos criterios de valoración relevantes que pueden resultar críticos para el interés de Bayer en las vacunas terapéuticas sobre la base de su sistema de expresión de proteínas basado en plantas, la tecnología magnICON(R).

Dr. John Butler, líder de proyecto global Farmacéuticos Producidos de Plantas (PMP) de Bayer, dijo, “Estamos felices de haber alcanzado este logro importante y apreciamos trabajar con el equipo científico talentoso de Stellar, liderado por el profesor Daniel Morse. Conjuntamente con los científicos e ingenieros de Bayer, consideramos que hemos causado un impacto significativo en el costo potencial de la estructura así como en la eficacia y la sustentabilidad de la producción de nuestra vacuna. Asegurar un suministro sostenible a largo plazo de KLH es un elemento clave en nuestros esfuerzos para facilitar una nueva terapia que puede beneficiar considerablemente los resultados de la enfermedad y la calidad de vida de los pacientes con NHL”.

Frank Oakes, CEO de Stellar, dijo, “Stellar ha sido honrada con la oportunidad de asociarse con el equipo de vanguardia de Bayer Innovation, y hoy, avanza esta nueva asociación al próximo nivel. Bayer Innovation está entre las empresas más altamente valoradas en el campo de PMP y consideramos que la credibilidad que viene de trabajar con una empresa de biotecnología, ciencias materiales y farmacéuticos reconocida en el ámbito internacional tiene un valor incalculable. Estamos muy emocionados con las oportunidades de crecimiento y el potencial de explorar el desarrollo de negocios futuros con Bayer Innovation.”

Acerca de Bayer Innovation GmbH (BIG — http://www.bayer-innovation.com/en/homepage.aspx) es parte de la estrategia de innovación de Bayer y complementa las actividades de innovación de los distintos subgrupos en los campos de cuidados de la salud, nutrición y materiales de alta calidad. Su objetivo es identificar y desarrollar nuevas oportunidades, preparando la penetración hacia mercados y en expansión. Actualmente el punto de enfoque central es la tecnología médica y la producción de farmacéuticos producidos de plantas.

Acerca de Stellar Biotechnologies, Inc. (TSX-V: KLH) (PINKSHEETS: SBOTF) (www.StellarBiotechnologies.com) es un líder mundial en fabricación sostenible de proteínas portadoras inmunológicas (ICP) de grado farmacéutico, particularmente con relación a la proteína farmacéutica más importante presente en esta clase, KLH (hemocianina de Megathura crenulata). Esta antigua proteína evolucionaria posee una estructura altamente compleja que la hace ideal para uso en productos de diagnóstico y vacunas para seres humanos y animales. Con socios y clientes, sus productos principales Stellar KLH están en fase clínica y en camino a ser establecidos como la única fuente farmacéutica sostenible a largo plazo.

Las declaraciones en este comunicado de prensa que no sean puramente información de hechos históricos, incluyendo declaraciones relacionadas a los ingresos o ganancias, o a los planes futuros y objetivos de la empresa, o expectativa de ventas, flujos de caja y gastos de capital constituyen declaraciones prospectivas. Las declaraciones prospectivas están basadas en numerosas suposiciones y están sujetas a todos los riesgos e incertidumbres inherentes en los negocios de las empresas, incluyendo los riesgos inherentes en la historia de la tecnología. No se puede garantizar que tales declaraciones prospectivas sean precisas, puesto que los resultados reales y eventos futuros pueden diferir materialmente de los anticipados en tales declaraciones. Por consiguiente, se advierte a los lectores que depositen confianza excesiva en tales declaraciones. Excepto de conformidad con las leyes de valores aplicables, la empresa renuncia expresamente a cualquier obligación de actualizar cualquier declaración prospectiva o a cualquier declaración prospectiva incorporada por referencia en este comunicado. Este comunicado no constituye una oferta de venta o una solicitud de oferta de compra de ninguno de los títulos valores de la empresa mantenidos en Estados Unidos, o a beneficio o cuenta de, una persona estadounidense o en Estados Unidos. Ni la Bolsa de Valores de Toronto, Canadá (TSX Venture Exchange) ni su proveedor de servicios de regulaciones (según la definición de este término bajo las políticas de la Bolsa de Valores de Toronto) aceptan responsabilidad por la solvencia o precisión de este comunicado de prensa.

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Stellar Biotechnologies Announces Achievement of Milestone in Cooperation With Bayer Innovation

Posted on September 13, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Stellar Biotechnologies, Inc.

PORT HUENEME, CA–(Marketwire – September 13, 2010) –  (TSX-V: KLH) (PINKSHEETS: SBOTF) — Stellar Biotechnologies, Inc. is collaborating with Bayer Innovation GmbH (BIG) in the development of biopharmaceuticals. Bayer’s personalized idiotype vaccine for the treatment of Non-Hodgkin’s-Lymphoma (NHL) is currently in Phase I clinical trials, and the cooperation is related to the development of a personalized Non-Hodgkin’s-Lymphoma vaccine. The vaccine antigen is produced in tobacco plants based on Bayer’s proprietary magnICON® technology. Bayer Innovation GmbH is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bayer AG (PINKSHEETS: BAYRY) (XETRA: BAYGN) (LSE: BYRB).

A critical project feasibility milestone in the “Joint Development Agreement” has been achieved. Under terms of the agreement, Stellar Biotechnologies supplies Keyhole Limpet Hemocyanin (KLH) which is coupled to the idiotype protein produced in tobacco plants. KLH is a highly potent immuno-stimulatory protein, which stimulates the lymphocytes to recognize even familiar proteins attached to it as foreign. During the immune response that ensues, the lymphocytes mainly focus on the peptide sequence of the attached tumor idiotype. This so-called immunogenic carrier molecule comes solely from the rare keyhole limpet, and Stellar has technology for the maintenance of the animal, the non-lethal extraction of the critical molecule and a profitable refinement process of KLH.

By consent of both parties, Stellar will receive a milestone payment from BIG, and the co-development agreement is being expanded and continued to achieve important new endpoints that may prove critical to Bayer’s interest in therapeutic vaccines based on its plant-based protein expression system, the magnICON® technology.

Dr. John Butler, Global Project Leader of Plant Made Pharmaceuticals (PMP) for Bayer, said, “We are happy to have achieved this important milestone, and appreciate working with Stellar’s talented scientific team, led by Professor Daniel Morse. Together with Bayer’s scientists and engineers, we believe we have made a significant impact on the potential cost structure as well as efficiency and sustainability of our vaccine production. Securing a long-term sustainable KLH supply is a key element in our efforts to enable a new therapy that could significantly benefit disease outcomes and quality of life of NHL patients.”

Frank Oakes, CEO of Stellar, said, “Stellar has been honored by the opportunity to partner with the cutting-edge team at Bayer Innovation, and now, to grow this new relationship to the next level. Bayer Innovation is among the highest regarded participants in the PMP field, and we believe the credibility that comes from working with an internationally recognized biotechnology, materials science, and pharmaceutical powerhouse is incalculable. We are excited by the opportunity for growth in this relationship, and the potential for exploring future business development opportunities with Bayer Innovation.”

About Bayer Innovation GmbH (BIG — http://www.bayer-innovation.com/en/homepage.aspx) is part of Bayer’s innovation strategy and complements the innovation activities of the different subgroups in the fields of health care, nutrition and high-quality materials. Its objective is to identify and develop new growth opportunities, preparing entry into new and expanding markets. Currently the focus is on medical technology and the production of plant-made pharmaceuticals.

About Stellar Biotechnologies, Inc. (TSX-V: KLH) (PINKSHEETS: SBOTF) (www.StellarBiotechnologies.com) is a world leader in sustainable manufacturing of pharmaceutical grade immune carrier proteins (ICP), particularly with regard to the present most important pharmaceutical protein in this class, KLH (Keyhole Limpet Hemocyanin). This ancient evolutionary protein has a highly complex structure that makes it ideal for use in human and animal vaccines and diagnostic products. With partners and customers, its flagship Stellar KLH products are in the clinic, and on the way to being established as the only sustainable, long-term pharmaceutical source.

Statements in this press release other than purely historical factual information, including statements relating to revenues or profits, or the Company’s future plans and objectives, or expected sales, cash flows, and capital expenditures constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions and are subject to all of the risks and uncertainties inherent in the Company’s business, including risks inherent in the technology history. There can be no assurance that such forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on such statements. Except in accordance with applicable securities laws, the Company expressly disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking statements that are incorporated by reference herein. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the Company’s securities set out herein in the United States, or to, or for the benefit or account of, a U.S. person or person in the United States. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Contact:
Darrell Brookstein
Executive VP, Business Development & Finance
[email protected]

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

TRDX and Genesis Biopharma, Inc. Believe the Future Looks Bright Regarding Their Potential Cure for Painful Diabetic Neuropathy (PDN) — A Billion…

Posted on September 13, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Trend Exploration, Inc.

JERICHO, NY–(Marketwire – September 13, 2010) –  SciMeDent Health, Corp. f/k/a Trend Exploration, Inc. (“TRDX” or the “Company”) (PINKSHEETS: TRDX) today announces that it believes that the future looks very bright for itself and its sublicense partner, Montreal-based Genesis Biopharma, Inc., as they continue making progress regarding their new compound in development for the treatment and potential cure of Painful Diabetic Neuropathy (PDN).

According to the International Diabetes Federation the global health expenditure on diabetes is expected to total at least USD 376 billion in 2010 and USD 490 billion in 2030. (http://www.idf.org/webdata/docs/PIIS0168822710000495.pdf)

Back in 2003 the American Diabetes Association estimated that in the U.S. the total annual cost of treating diabetic peripheral neuropathy and its complications was $10.91 billion. (http://care.diabetesjournals.org/content/26/6/1790.full)

ABOUT PDN:

PDN is one of many complications of diabetes. Forty to fifty percent of diabetic patients may develop PDN over 15 to 20 years. PDN is present in 11.6% of patients with Type I diabetes and 32.1% of patients with Type II diabetes. PDN may present itself as a progressive build-up of unpleasant sensory symptoms including tingling (paraesthesia), burning pain, radiating pain down the legs and toes and lancinating or contact pain. The pain is more severe during the night and often prevents sleep. Some patients may be in a constant state of tiredness because of sleep deprivation while others are unable to maintain employment.

  1. According to the World Health Organization there are approximately 220 million people worldwide who have diabetes

    (http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs312/en/). In the U.S., according to the 2007 National Diabetes Fact Sheet, a total of 23.6 million had diabetes of which 17.9 million were already diagnosed and the rest, 24%, were undiagnosed.

    (http://www.diabetes.org/diabetes-basics/diabetes-statistics/). If you add the undiagnosed cases to the 220 million reported by the World Health Organization the total number could exceed 270 million worldwide.

  2. Diabetic neuropathy can cause nerve damage in the feet that leads to decrease or loss of sensation. As a result, a blister or a cut can go unnoticed. Any infection that might ensue can result in tissue death (gangrene) and in some cases severe damage can lead to amputation of toe, foot or even leg. Each year about 80,000 – 84,000 amputations are performed in the U.S. alone (See Diabetes-Related Amputation Statistics:
    http://www.isletsofhope.com/diabetes/complications/amputation_1.html#diabetes).

    How many of these amputations could have been avoided had a solution been made available?

Mr. Leo Stella, CEO of Genesis, has stated: “Until now, there is absolutely no mechanism based treatment that can reverse neuropathy associated with diabetes. Drugs exist that have a temporary effect on the pain, but these drugs cannot cure the cause. The goal of Genesis Biopharma is to develop a drug that will cure this terrible condition.”

Dr. Jan Stahl, CEO of TRDX, commented: “The opportunity is very significant for all the stakeholders in this PDN solution. We will continue our efforts to make this potential cure a reality and deliver quality value for our shareholders.”

About Genesis Biopharma, Inc.

Genesis Biopharma, Inc. (www.genesisbiopharma.com) is a Canadian corporation founded in 2007 to exploit the commercial potential for the therapeutic use of peptidomimetic (modified amino acid peptides) compounds. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, which are found in every cell. Proteins consist of extremely long and complex amino acid chains. In contrast, a peptide is a short string of amino acids, joined by chemical bonds (also called “amide bonds”).

About SCIMEDENT f/k/a Trend Exploration, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: TRDX)

SciMeDent is a company focused on being a leading developer and marketer of products and services for medicine, dentistry and life sciences. SciMeDent plans to achieve growth initially through mergers and acquisitions.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

A number of statements contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties, including the sufficiency of existing capital resources, technological or industry changes and uncertainties related to the development of the Company’s business model. The actual results the Company may achieve could differ materially from any forward-looking statements due to such risks and uncertainties.

Contact:
SciMeDent Health Corp. f/k/a Trend Exploration, Inc.
[email protected]
1-866-383-1374

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

TRDX Announces Completion of Key Milestone and Provides Details on Closing of Definitive Agreement With Genesis Biopharma, Inc.

Posted on September 10, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Trend Exploration, Inc.

JERICHO, NY–(Marketwire – September 10, 2010) –  SciMeDent Health, Corp. f/k/a Trend Exploration, Inc. (“TRDX” or the “Company”) (PINKSHEETS: TRDX) today confirms it has completed the structuring of DiabetRX Pharma Corp. (“DiabetRX”) which will be assigned the Sublicense and upon Final Closing will be 100% owned by TRDX.

In addition, the Company provides the following details regarding the recently executed Definitive Sublicense Agreement (“Definitive”) with Montreal-based Genesis Biopharma, Inc. (“Genesis”).

Dr. Jan Stahl, CEO of TRDX, commented: “Since the signing of the Definitive Agreement, I am very happy with the progress we have made with Genesis. We feel confident in the current steps we are taking to complete the Initial Closing and first Tranche financing. We view DiabetRX as a long term investment with large potential and look forward to the Final Closing.”

About Genesis Biopharma, Inc.

Genesis Biopharma, Inc. (www.genesisbiopharma.com) is a Canadian corporation founded in 2007 to exploit the commercial potential for the therapeutic use of peptidomimetic (modified amino acid peptides) compounds. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, which are found in every cell. Proteins consist of extremely long and complex amino acid chains. In contrast, a peptide is a short string of amino acids, joined by chemical bonds (also called “amide bonds”).

About SCIMEDENT f/k/a Trend Exploration, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: TRDX)

SciMeDent is a company focused on being a leading developer and marketer of products and services for medicine, dentistry and life sciences. SciMeDent plans to achieve growth initially through mergers and acquisitions.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

A number of statements contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties, including the sufficiency of existing capital resources, technological or industry changes and uncertainties related to the development of the Company’s business model. The actual results the Company may achieve could differ materially from any forward-looking statements due to such risks and uncertainties.

Contact:
SciMeDent Health Corp. f/k/a Trend Exploration, Inc.
[email protected]
1-866-383-1374

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

UPDATE: Stellar Biotechnologies Files Key Patent for Company

Posted on September 10, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Stellar Biotechnologies, Inc.

PT. HUENEME, CA–(Marketwire – September 10, 2010) – Stellar Biotechnologies, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: SBOTF) (TSX-V: KLH) announces filing for patent protection of inventions related to its native Immunogenic (IMG) KLH technology platform and immune status monitoring product portfolio. KLH (keyhole limpet hemocyanin) is presently the most pharmaceutically important ICP (immune carrier protein) and IMG KLH is the most effective immune stimulant for use in cancer, viral and parasite vaccines; animal vaccines; and diagnostic products. Patent claims include pharmaceutical grade compositions of matter, processes for manufacture and methods of use in a wide range of therapies.

John Sundsmo, Ph.D., VP Research and Intellectual Property, said, “With filing of this patent application Stellar has achieved an important milestone on the road to becoming the preeminent world leader in development and manufacture of pharmaceutical grade immune carrier proteins. We are very pleased with the progress achieved by our scientists and what this patent application tangibly demonstrates.”

Corporate Website: www.StellarBiotechnologies.com
Stellar News at Marketwire: http://www.marketwire.com/mw/search.do?params=&grpSearch=C&companyid=70788

About Stellar Biotechnologies, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: SBOTF) (TSX-V: KLH) – (www.StellarBiotechnologies.com): is a world leader in sustainable manufacturing of pharmaceutical grade immune carrier proteins (ICP), particularly with regard to the present most important pharmaceutical protein in this class, KLH (Keyhole Limpet Hemocyanin). This ancient evolutionary protein has a highly complex structure that makes it ideal for use in human and animal vaccines and diagnostic products. With partners and customers, its flagship Stellar KLH products are in the clinic, and on the way to being established as the only sustainable, long-term pharmaceutical source.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the Company’s securities set out herein in the United States, or to, or for the benefit or account of, a U.S. Person or person in the United States. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Contact:
Darrell Brookstein
Executive VP, Business Development & Finance
[email protected]

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Sage a Preferred Vendor of Massachusetts eHealth Institute

Posted on September 10, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Sage

Regional Extension Center Vendor Partnerships Will Increase Quality of Care and Improve Public Health

TAMPA, FL–(Marketwire – September 10, 2010) –  Sage North America today announced that the Sage Healthcare Division, a leading provider of electronic health records (EHR) and practice management software, has been named a preferred vendor by the Massachusetts eHealth Institute to make available the Sage Intergy Meaningful Use Edition to all of the institute’s thousands of participating healthcare providers.

Massachusetts eHealth Institute is part of an extensive network of 60 Regional Extension Centers (RECs) across North America that serves as a neutral source for EHR and health information technology (HIT) as providers seek to navigate EHR options and select vendors that meet meaningful use requirements. Massachusetts eHealth Institute performed an exhaustive analysis of vendors in the HIT landscape prior to recommending solutions to its physician base.

“We are pleased to have Sage join our select list of certified health IT companies that will help thousands of health care providers across Massachusetts successfully transition to electronic health records,” said Rick Shoup, Ph.D., Director of the Massachusetts eHealth Institute. “Widespread deployment of electronic health records leads to better quality care for patients, reduces health care costs and spurs new jobs in the health care industry.”

Sage Intergy line of products and services met Massachusetts eHealth Institute’s standards for quality. By implementing a fully automated EHR such as Sage Intergy, providers will be better able to achieve meaningful use.

Through the partnership, Sage will support Massachusetts eHealth Institute’s goal to increase quality of care and improve public health.

“Being named a preferred vendor by the Massachusetts eHealth Institute means Sage will continue to provide physicians within the state with IT solutions and support as they move toward meaningful use and into the new healthcare economy,” said Ken Ernsting, Vice President of Business Development for Sage Healthcare Division. “We’re proud to serve medical professionals in Massachusetts, and aligning with this leading health organization.”

Clinics eligible to utilize Massachusetts eHealth Institute’s subsidized services include Priority Primary Care Providers (PPCP) in the area of family medicine, obstetrics, and gynecology, general internal or pediatric medicine. In addition, practices must be either individual or a small group practices (defined as 10 or fewer professionals with prescriptive privileges in the practice) primarily focused on primary care; public and critical access hospitals; and community health centers and rural health clinics.

About Massachusetts eHealth Institute
The Massachusetts eHealth Institute (MeHI), a division of the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative, is the state-designated entity for health care innovation, technology and competitiveness. Established by Governor Patrick and the Massachusetts Legislature in Chapter 305 of the Acts of 2008, MeHI is responsible for advancing the dissemination of health information across the Commonwealth, including the deployment of EHR systems in all healthcare provider settings that are networked through a statewide HIE. For more information on MeHI, go to www.maehi.org. 

About Sage Healthcare Division
Sage Healthcare Division provides integrated electronic health records, EDI applications and practice management systems to approximately 80,000 physicians and thousands of ambulatory care practices throughout North America. These systems enable physicians and practice managers to better manage their practices and improve profitability. Sage Healthcare Division is based in Tampa, Fla., and is a division of Sage North America. For more information, please visit www.sagehealth.com or call (877) 932-6301.

About Sage North America
Sage North America is part of The Sage Group plc, a leading global supplier of business management software and services. Sage North America employs 4,000 people and supports 3.1 million small and midsized business customers, including medical practices in the United States. The Sage Group plc, formed in 1981, was floated on the London Stock Exchange in 1989 and now employs 13,100 people and supports 6.2 million customers worldwide. For more information, please visit the Web site at www.sagenorthamerica.com.

© 2010 Sage Software, Inc. All rights reserved. Sage, the Sage logos, and the Sage product and service names mentioned herein are registered trademarks or trademarks of Sage Software, Inc. or its affiliated entities. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Media Contact:

Scott Rupp
Sage North America
813-249-4264
[email protected]

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

MMRGlobal Launches New Travel and Benefits Sales Group

Posted on September 10, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: MMRGlobal, Inc.

Company Sees Untapped Markets for Personal Health Records

LOS ANGELES, CA–(Marketwire – September 10, 2010) –  MMRGlobal, Inc. (OTCBB: MMRF) (www.mmrglobal.com) announced today the formal launching of a new department, MMRGlobal Travel and Benefits Sales Group. The group will be headed by Patrice A. Shilling, newly named Vice President, Global Travel and Benefit Sales. Shilling is an experienced travel executive who has worked in senior management positions at Travelocity Business, American Express, Alitalia Airlines and Le Méridien and whose clients have included Samsung, McKesson, Medtronic, Accenture, UBS, Boston Scientific and Liberty Mutual, amongst numerous other Fortune 500 and 1000 companies.

Robert H. Lorsch, MMRGlobal Chairman and CEO, said, “Patrice Shilling will lead an initiative to sell our branded Personal Health Record (PHR) (www.mmrvideos.com) and MyEsafeDepositBox products to travel procurement groups and employers with the emphasis on how they add to the safety and security of employees who travel globally, particularly expats. Our strategy will also include targeting organizations like ADP who work regularly with human resources executives and corporate purchasing departments.”

Shilling said, “Our plan envisions selling through corporate procurement, human resources and risk management, as these are untapped channels. Opportunity exists to establish strategic partnerships and alliances with online technology companies, including associations, financial and affinity groups, reward programs and travel providers such as my previous employers American Express and Travelocity Business.”

About MMRGlobal, Inc.
MMR Global, Inc., through its wholly-owned operating subsidiary, MyMedicalRecords, Inc. (“MMR”), provides secure and easy-to-use online Personal Health Records (“PHRs”) and electronic safe deposit box storage solutions, serving consumers, healthcare professionals, employers, insurance companies, financial institutions, and professional organizations and affinity groups. MyMedicalRecords enables individuals and families to access their medical records and other important documents, such as birth certificates, passports, insurance policies and wills, anytime from anywhere using the Internet. The MyMedicalRecords Personal Health Record is built on proprietary, patented technologies to allow documents, images and voicemail messages to be transmitted and stored in the system using a variety of methods, including fax, phone, or file upload without relying on any specific electronic medical record platform to populate a user’s account. The Company’s professional offering, MMRPro, is designed to give physicians’ offices an easy and cost-effective solution to digitizing paper-based medical records and sharing them with patients in real time through an integrated patient portal. MMR is an Independent Software Vendor Partner with Kodak to deliver an integrated turnkey EMR solution for healthcare professionals. MMR is also an integrated service provider on Google Health. To learn more about MMR Global, Inc. and its products, visit www.mymedicalrecords.com and view the videos at www.mmrtheater.com.

Forward-Looking Statements
Any statements contained in this press release that refer to future events or other non-historical matters are forward-looking statements, and some can be identified by the use of words (and their derivations) such as “need,” “possibility,” “offer,” “development,” “if,” “negotiate,” “when,” “begun,” “believe,” “achieve,” “will,” “estimate,” “expect,” “maintain,” “plan,” and “continue,” or the negative of such terms and other comparable terminology. MMRGlobal, Inc. disclaims any intent or obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on MMRGlobal, Inc.’s reasonable expectations as of the date of this press release and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations. The information discussed in this release is subject to various risks and uncertainties related to changes in MMRGlobal, Inc.’s business prospects, results of operations or financial condition, government regulation, and such other risks and uncertainties as detailed from time to time in MMRGlobal, Inc.’s public filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

Contact:

Bobbie Volman
MMRGlobal, Inc.
(310) 476-7002
[email protected]

Michael Selsman
Public Communications Co.
(310) 553-5732
[email protected]

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Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

TomoTherapy to Present at Baird’s 2010 Health Care Conference

Posted on September 10, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: TomoTherapy

MADISON, WI–(Marketwire – September 10, 2010) –  TomoTherapy Incorporated (NASDAQ: TOMO), maker of advanced radiation therapy solutions for cancer care, today announced that CFO Thomas Powell and Vice President of Operations and Business Development Eric Schloesser will present at Baird’s 2010 Health Care Conference on Wednesday, September 15, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. ET. The conference will be held at the St. Regis New York Hotel in New York City, N.Y.

A live audio Webcast of the presentation will be available on the investor relations page of TomoTherapy.com. For those who are unable to listen to the live presentation, an archive of the Webcast will be available on the company’s site for 30 days following the presentation.

About TomoTherapy Incorporated 
TomoTherapy Incorporated develops, markets and sells advanced radiation therapy solutions that can be used to treat a wide variety of cancers, from the most common to the most complex. The ring gantry-based TomoTherapy® platform combines integrated CT imaging with conformal radiation therapy to deliver sophisticated radiation treatments with speed and precision while reducing radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. TomoTherapy’s suite of solutions include its flagship Hi·Art® treatment system, which has been used to deliver more than three million CT-guided, helical intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) treatment fractions; the TomoHD™ treatment system, designed to enable cancer centers to treat a broader patient population with a single device; and the TomoMobile™ relocatable radiation therapy solution, designed to improve access and availability of state-of-the-art cancer care. TomoTherapy’s stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol TOMO. To learn more about TomoTherapy, please visit TomoTherapy.com.

©2010 TomoTherapy Incorporated. All rights reserved. TomoTherapy, Tomo, TomoDirect, TQA, the TomoTherapy logo and Hi·Art are among trademarks, service marks or registered trademarks of TomoTherapy Incorporated in the United States and other countries.

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

New Medline Pediatric Catheter Tray System Helps Clinicians Better Perform Catheterizations for Children

Posted on September 9, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Medline Industries, Inc.

‘Buddy the Brave’ Helps Children Get Through Catheter Procedure

MUNDELEIN, IL–(Marketwire – September 9, 2010) –  As part of Medline’s ERASE CAUTI™ program, created to help clinicians reduce the risk of urinary catheter-associated infections, the company today announced the launch of a pediatric catheter tray designed to help clinicians better perform and manage urinary catheterizations for children. The new tray introduces “Buddy the Brave,” a friendly, upbeat animal character, to help younger patients better manage the catheter process. Buddy is featured on the tray’s packaging, in a children’s activity card and on a bravery sticker.

“Our ‘Buddy the Brave’ character and related materials may help children focus their attention away from the procedure, which will help them to tolerate what can be an unpleasant experience,” said Alecia Cooper, senior vice president of clinical services for Medline. “The ERASE CAUTI system combines evidence-based principles and training with a revolutionary-designed tray to assist the clinician in using a proven and safe method for catheter insertion and maintenance.”

In a survey done on 110,709 pediatric ICU patients, 6,290 healthcare-associated infections were noted. The top three major sites of infections, accounting for 64% of all healthcare-associated infections, were bloodstream infections (28%), pneumonia (21%), and urinary tract infection (15%). Each of these infections was strongly associated with use of an invasive device.1

The new pediatric tray is the latest addition to Medline’s ERASE CAUTI product line. Similar to the adult version, the new pediatric tray features an innovative one-layer design. The one-layer design (versus the industry norm of two layers) supports and encourages a logical “best practices” sequence of events during catheterization that helps the provider adhere to current recommended healthcare practices. The new tray design is intuitive, reduces variance in care process and promotes efficiency.

Other features of the ERASE CAUTI pediatric catheter tray system include:

Clear photography of tray contents. In Medline’s new pediatric Foley catheter tray, the product instructions and clear color images are located on the outside to encourage clinicians to review the information before they start. To help identify the contents of the kit, the label features an actual color photo of the tray components, including a picture of Buddy the Brave that easily identifies the product as a pediatric tray. The photo can also be used to discuss the procedure with the patient and parent. The outer label opens like a book and on the inside is a clear, step-by-step instructional guide to catheter insertion.

Checklist that helps practitioners “do the right thing.” The outer label contains “trigger tools,” according to Cooper, to promote the recommended guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). A checklist of clinical indications for catheterization is printed on a peel-off sticker. The checklist is formatted to easily fit in the patient chart or medical record. It is also available in an electronic format for electronic documentation.

Buddy the Brave Activity Card and family education resource. To keep young patients distracted from the medical procedure, an activity card is included in the tray. The card includes a story featuring Buddy the Brave, a word find game and a maze. The activity card also provides useful family education on urinary catheters and the catheterization process.

Competency validation tools. A key component to the effectiveness of the ERASE CAUTI program is the cutting edge online competency and measurement tools that assess and sustain staff results. The interactive competency programs are available on Medline University, Medline’s online education resource. They are available to staff anytime and can be easily incorporated into the annual skills competency program for a facility’s nursing staff.

About Medline Industries, Inc.
Medline, the nation’s largest privately held manufacturer and distributor of healthcare products, manufactures and distributes more than 100,000 products to hospitals, extended-care facilities, surgery centers, home care dealers and agencies. Headquartered in Mundelein, Ill., Medline has more than 900 dedicated sales representatives nationwide to support its broad product line and cost management services.

Over the past five years, Medline has been the fastest-growing distributor of medical and surgical supplies in the U.S., serving as the primary distributor to over 450 major hospitals and healthcare systems. As a leading distributor, Medline offers a comprehensive array of consulting and management services encompassing the supply chain and logistics, utilization and standardization, business tools and enhanced reporting capabilities and on-staff clinicians.

Media Contacts:
Jerreau Beaudoin
(847) 643-3011
John Marks
(847) 643-3309

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

"Not All Wounds Are Visible" Says Helicopter Gunner

Posted on September 9, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Help Hospitalized Veterans

WINCHESTER, CA–(Marketwire – September 9, 2010) –  James Bertalotto of Springdale, Arkansas was the door gunner and crew chief of a Huey helicopter in Vietnam. He served two tours from 1966-1969. “When you’re the crew chief and you are assigned to a helicopter, you go wherever that ‘copter goes. It’s like a cowboy and his horse.” For Bertalotto, that helicopter took him into some life experiences that caused trauma which to this day he still has trouble overcoming. After all these years the Vietnam War still rages within him. “Not all wounds are visible,” said Bertalotto. Still, he tries to cope. He says he receives excellent care at the Fayetteville VA Medical Center where he goes for therapy twice a week. It was during a therapy session that Bertalotto was first introduced to the Help Hospitalized Veterans (HHV) arts & crafts program.

Bertalotto said, “I have a wife of 40 years, two children and five grandchildren and they are the love of my life. I started working on the HHV craft kits about three years ago and really enjoy working on them. I get about three or four a year and work on them with my grandchildren. It’s a special time to share with them… to listen, laugh and share a hug.” Bertalotto recently worked on one of HHV’s newest kits — the Veterans Pride Desktop Flag kit. “We were all so proud of the flags in the kit that I instructed my grandkids to put it on my casket when I pass away,” he added. Bertalotto says working on the craft kits takes his mind away from his troubling thoughts. “The kits bring a level of enjoyment into my life I wouldn’t have otherwise, but the hugs are the best part of working on them. That’s the best medicine of all.”

HHV is the largest supplier of free therapeutic arts & crafts kits to VA and military hospitals worldwide. For more information on HHV products and services, please visit www.hhv.org or call 1-888-567-VETS.

Documents and/or Photos available for this release:

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To view supporting documents and/or photos, go to www.enr-corp.com/pressroom and enter Release ID: 269831

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

This Week on ORLive: Artificial Disc Treatments for Cervical Disease

Posted on September 9, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: OR-Live, Inc.

New On-Demand and Live Surgery Video for the Week of September 5, 2010

WEST HARTFORD, CT–(Marketwire – September 9, 2010) –  ORLive, the leader in online medical video, presents a live interactive broadcast focusing on the use of artificial disc treatments for cervical disease. In addition ORLive invites you to take part in the latest installment of the Virtual Brain Tumor Board, and wraps up our back to school focus with three new educational video referrals.

NEW ON ORLIVE

LIVE VIDEO — Artificial Disc Treatments for Cervical Disease
Live Thursday, September 9, at 7:00PM

Until recently, spinal fusion was the surgical solution to cervical disc disease. ORLive invites you to watch footage of an Artificial Discectomy performed by William Kuhn, MD of Halifax Hospital, and join in on a live online discussion with the doctor and patient, Ali Rabatsky. 

Viewers of this video are invited to interact with the team via the ORLive website, where you can also request a reminder to alert you when this video is going live.

ORLIVE REFERRALS – Week of September 5, 2010
Each week ORLive highlights on-demand videos for our membership and visitors. 

Medical Education Referral: Defining and Treating Chronic Pain from Beth Israel Hospital in New York City.

CME Referral: The Science and Medicine of Parkinson’s Disease from CMEducation Resources.

Viewer’s Referral: Landmark Practice Advances in STEMI and ACS from CMEducation Resources.

HIGHLIGHTS

NOW ON-DEMAND — Surgical and Medical Treatments for Type 2 Diabetes
Now Available On-Demand

Type 2 diabetes can lead to potentially deadly complications for many patients, but the team at NewYork-Presbyterian remains on the forefront of research and treatment innovations. Join Dr. Francesco Rubino, Chief, Gastrointestinal Metabolic Surgery at the Weill Cornell Medical Center, Dr. Judith Korner, from Columbia University Medical Center, and Dr. Louis Aronne, from the Weill Cornell Medical Center, as they review the advancements that are being made and see what happens when gastric bypass surgery results in a possible remission of diabetes.

Viewers of this video can still interact with the team via the ORLive website, where you can also request updates as they become available.

FEATURED CHANNEL — Sorin Group
With over 40 years of experience, Sorin Group is responsible for many of the innovations that have made heart valve replacement and repair among the safest and most effective procedures in the world today. ORLive invites you to watch and learn as Sorin presents video of many of these devices on the Sorin ORLive Channel. 

PREVIEW — Continuum® Acetabular System and Zimmer® M/L Taper with Kinectiv® Technology
Premieres Thursday, September 23, 2010 at 7PM EDT

On Thursday, September 23rd at 7PM EDT Zimmer Medical Education will broadcast an ORLive Total Hip Arthroplasty featuring the Continuum Acetabular System and the Kinectiv Modular Neck Technology. The surgery will be performed by Dr. Mark Hartzband, Hartzband Center for Hip and Knee Replacement, L.L.C., Paramus, NJ and will be moderated by Dr. Paul Duwelius, St. Vincent Hospital, Portland, OR. The broadcast will last one hour and will show the entire surgical procedure. Following the live broadcast the surgery will be archived for future playback.

This opportunity allows for firsthand insight of the safe and effective implantation and surgical procedure involved with the Continuum® Acetabular System and the Zimmer® M/L Taper with Kinectiv® Technology.

This surgery video is available exclusively to members of the ORLive community, and members can interact and ask questions via the ORLive website. Learn more about this broadcast or get a reminder at ORLive.com, and be ready to view this exciting procedure by activating your free membership to ORLive today.

About ORLive
ORLive is the leading provider of video communication channels to the healthcare community. Working collaboratively with hospitals and device manufacturers, ORLive produces and distributes customized, interactive, video programs that demonstrate the latest advances in medicine, surgical techniques and product innovations. The ORLive broadcasting network provides an intimate look at over 650 live and on-demand surgeries to a global audience, streaming over 50,000 hours of programming each month. The ORLive network can be found on-line at www.ORLive.com.

Contact:

Bonnie Gergely
Communications Manager
(860) 953-2900
Email Contact

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Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Vigil Health Solutions Announces Share Consolidation

Posted on September 9, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA–(Marketwire – Sept. 9, 2010) – Vigil Health Solutions Inc. (“Vigil”) (TSX VENTURE:VGL)today announced that, effective the opening of trading on September 10, 2010, Vigil’s common shares will be consolidated on the basis of one post-consolidation common share for each twenty pre-consolidation common shares. The consolidation was approved at Vigil’s Annual General and Special Meeting of shareholders held on August 24, 2010. Vigil currently has 100,046,135 pre-consolidation common shares outstanding. Vigil will have approximately 5,002,310 post-consolidation common shares outstanding. Vigil’s name and trading symbol on the TSX Venture Exchange will not be changed in connection with the consolidation.

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

CommuniCare Receives Grant From Austin Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure(R)

Posted on September 9, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: CommuniCare Health Centers

Healthcare Non-Profit Receives Grant to Provide Access to Breast Health Services in Hays County

KYLE, TX–(Marketwire – September 9, 2010) –  CommuniCare Health Centers, a Federally Qualified Health Center that provides health care in Bexar and Hays Counties, announced today that it has received a $56,533 grant from the Austin Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure®. The grant will provide low-income, uninsured women in Hays County with greatly needed educational information about breast cancer, access to clinical breast exams, and mammograms.

“We are so pleased to receive the grant from the Austin Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure® and look forward to making breast health services available to more women in Hays County,” said Debbora A. Thompson, Chief Executive Officer of CommuniCare Health Centers. “Without organizations like the Komen Foundation many low-income, minority, uninsured women would not have access to critical breast health screenings.”

The services provided by the grant will be offered to uninsured women aged 40 to 64 at CommuniCare’s health center at 1340 Wonder World Drive in San Marcos and at its new health center in Kyle, CommuniCare Health Centers – Kyle at 2810 Dacy Lane. To access services funded by this grant, please call 512.392.1718. CommuniCare will be opening CCHC-Kyle, on September 20, 2010 where medical, dental and behavioral health care will be available to area residents. 

About the Austin Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure:
The Austin Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure® has been working to better the lives of those facing breast cancer in the Greater Austin community since 1999. Through events such as the Komen Austin Race for the Cure® and other philanthropic endeavors, the Austin Affiliate has invested nearly $7 Million in community breast health programs in Bastrop, Caldwell, Hays, Travis, and Williamson Counties. The Affiliate makes grants to local hospitals and community organizations that provide breast health education and breast cancer screening and treatment programs for medically underserved women.
For more information on the Austin Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure® please visit www.komenaustin.org.

About CommuniCare:
CommuniCare Health Centers (CCHC) has served San Antonio for over 38 years. CCHC provides medical, dental and behavioral health services to uninsured and underserved residents in Bexar and Hays counties and delivered more than 151,000 visits in 2009 in two health centers in San Antonio and one in San Marcos. As a non-profit community health center, it serves those with Medicaid, Medicare, medical insurance and those that do not have insurance, charging on a sliding-fee scale based on annual household income and family size. For more information on Barrio Comprehensive Family Health Care Center, Inc. dba CommuniCare Health Centers please visit www.communicaretx.org.

Media Contact:
Laurie Casias
210.233.7075
Email Contact

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Top Healthcare Leaders Examine EMR Adoption and Meaningful Use at 2010 Healthcare Forum

Posted on September 9, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: The Breakaway Group

Industry Experts Explore New Leadership Strategies to Support Sustainable EMR Adoption

DENVER, CO–(Marketwire – September 9, 2010) –  The Breakaway Group will host an exclusive group of healthcare leaders, educators and innovators at the Inverness Hotel & Conference Center in Denver, from September 23-25, for the 2010 Healthcare Forum: Beyond Implementation, The New Leadership Agenda for Lasting EMR Adoption. Featuring a presentation by Wil Yu, Special Assistant, Innovations and Research, Strategic Health IT Advanced Research Projects, Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT, the central theme of the forum centers on the changing leadership agenda for three roles in healthcare: the CEO, CIO and Clinical Leadership.

Attendees and presenters include top leaders from Trinity Health, UT Medical Group, Arkansas Children’s Hospital, Baptist Health System and Hartford Health Care, and others. The 2010 Healthcare Forum continues the conversation launched in 2007 at the Healthcare Summit in Vail, Colo., where discussion focused on the challenge of how to treat an HIT implementation as more than a single event. 

“The Healthcare Forum provides a way for C-level executives to collaborate on finding successful ways to shift leadership priorities, to refocus organization efforts around EMR adoption,” said Charles Fred, chief executive officer of The Breakaway Group. “We are excited to offer the results of our research as a way to facilitate meaningful use and sustainable EMR adoption in the healthcare industry.” 

Recent Research Serves as Foundation for New Leadership Agenda
In the face of increased pressure to adopt new technology, healthcare executives have been led to reprioritize their everyday roles. Recent in-depth research from The Breakaway Group into the major barriers of EMR adoption and improved clinical outcomes (Beyond Implementation: A Prescription for Lasting EMR Adoption, 2010, Haugen, H., Woodside, J.) will serve as a foundation for the leadership agenda discussion. 

The authors, Dr. Heather Haugen and Dr. Jeffrey Woodside, M.D., conducted more than 18 months of research with leaders and healthcare organizations representing more than 3,200 physicians and 350 ambulatory sites. Through case studies and research, they examine why the transition to EMR is often overly costly, lengthy and frustrating.

“Despite the significant benefits of electronic medical records, healthcare organizations are not seeing the financial and clinical outcomes they had hoped for,” said Dr. Haugen, co-author of Beyond Implementation. “After investigating the outcomes of poor adoption and why physicians don’t get the full potential from EMR, we have identified one common thread. Too often, the primary focus is on go-live implementation when instead, this step should be the beginning of a sustained effort for the life of the application.”

About The Breakaway Group
The Breakaway Group helps healthcare providers quickly adopt new technology through a research-based method that uses innovative simulations and coaching to help improve patient care and safety. The firm’s unique approach to learning is based on the best-selling book “Breakaway” by CEO and Founder Charles Fred. For more information, visit www.thebreakawaygroup.com.

Contact:
J.D. McCartney
Xstatic Public Relations
303-928-7144, x48
[email protected]

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Stellar Biotechnologies Files Key Patent for Company

Posted on September 9, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Stellar Biotechnologies, Inc.

PT. HUENEME, CA–(Marketwire – September 9, 2010) –  Stellar Biotechnologies, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: SBOTF) (TSX-V: KLH) announces filing for patent protection of inventions related to its native Immunogenic (IMG) KLH technology platform and immune status monitoring product portfolio. KLH (keyhole limpet hemocyanin) is presently the most pharmaceutically important ICP (immune carrier protein) and IMG KLH is the most effective immune stimulant for use in cancer, viral and parasite vaccines; animal vaccines; and diagnostic products. Patent claims include pharmaceutical grade compositions of matter, processes for manufacture and methods of use in a wide range of therapies.

John Sundsmo, Ph.D., VP Research and Intellectual Property, said, “With filing of this patent application Stellar has achieved an important milestone on the road to becoming the preeminent world leader in development and manufacture of pharmaceutical grade immune carrier proteins. We are very pleased with the progress achieved by our scientists and what this patent application tangibly demonstrates.”

Corporate Website: www.StellarBiotechnologies.com
Stellar News at Marketwire: http://www.marketwire.com/mw/search.do?params=&grpSearch=C&companyid=70788

About Stellar Biotechnologies, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: SBOTF) (TSX-V: KLH) – (www.StellarBiotechnologies.com): is a world leader in sustainable manufacturing of pharmaceutical grade immune carrier proteins (ICP), particularly with regard to the present most important pharmaceutical protein in this class, KLH (Keyhole Limpet Hemocyanin). This ancient evolutionary protein has a highly complex structure that makes it ideal for use in human and animal vaccines and diagnostic products. With partners and customers, its flagship Stellar KLH products are in the clinic, and on the way to being established as the only sustainable, long-term pharmaceutical source.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the Company’s securities set out herein in the United States, or to, or for the benefit or account of, a U.S. Person or person in the United States. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Contact:
Darrell Brookstein
Executive VP, Business Development & Finance
[email protected]

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Nottingham City Hospital Chooses Quality, Throughput and Flexibility With TomoTherapy(R) Radiation Therapy System for New Facility

Posted on September 9, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: TomoTherapy

MADISON, WI–(Marketwire – September 9, 2010) – TomoTherapy Incorporated (NASDAQ: TOMO), maker of advanced, integrated radiation therapy solutions for cancer care, today announced that its technology will soon be used to treat cancer patients in Nottingham, England. The Nottingham Radiotherapy Centre will install the TomoTherapy® Hi·Art® treatment system in November as part of a service expansion and relocation. 

The TomoTherapy treatment system enables delivery of state-of-the-art CT image-guided intensity modulated radiotherapy (IG-IMRT), enabling the hospital to reinforce its leadership in high-quality, efficient cancer care for the people of the East Midlands of England.

The Nottingham Radiotherapy Centre serves a population of approximately 1 million and delivers 37,000 fractions of radiation therapy annually. The Centre provides complex external beam treatment including paediatric radiation therapy, intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), continuous hyperfractionation, and total body electron and photon radiation therapy. The centre is part of Nottingham University Hospitals National Health Service (NHS) Trust, which is one of the country’s largest teaching hospitals.

Russell Hart, Radiotherapy Service Manager of the Centre, states:

“Our multi-disciplinary team is thrilled to be introducing TomoTherapy technology. Benefits will include better access for our patients to what we believe is the best delivery system for complex image-guided, intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IG-IMRT). The new machine will also mean that there will be some patients for whom curative treatment will now be possible whereas in the past treatment would only have been offered on a palliative basis. A clear advantage of the TomoTherapy system is the rapid installation time. This will enable us to have the high technology available in a short space of time — much quicker than a conventional linear accelerator.

Here at Nottingham, in line with national policy, we believe that four-dimensional (4D) Adaptive Radiotherapy is the future standard of care for radiotherapy treatment, and that the TomoTherapy Hi·Art system is the most sophisticated and best system to achieve this objective. We believe our equipment strategy will provide us with a full range of treatment options for the population we serve, with the TomoTherapy system best able to deliver the most complex dose distributions.”

Commenting on the key role TomoTherapy technology is playing in a publicly funded health service, Julie Mead, Director and Clinical Advisor from Oncology Systems Limited, states:

“The oncology team at Nottingham put all equipment vendors through a rigorous clinical and technical public tender evaluation. They clearly concluded that the TomoTherapy platform would bring significant benefits to a centre that is reported as having one of the busiest patient throughput figures per treatment machine, in all of the UK. Already having a linac IMRT programme in place, the Nottingham Radiotherapy Centre also saw the improvement in treatment quality that TomoTherapy technology would bring, along with centre-wide efficiency gains from allocating advanced treatments to the unit. In difficult financial times, the TomoTherapy platform offers not only the best quality radiotherapy, but also the highest efficiency for advanced IG-IMRT. The NHS looks at cost-effectiveness as a key criterion. The TomoTherapy platform fits the bill.”

Reinforcing the efficiency requirements so critical to the publicly funded NHS, Nottingham’s Russell Hart adds:

“We treat between 35 to 50 patients per normal working day on our linear accelerators, depending on the complexity of the work being undertaken. We aim to maintain that throughput and utilise TomoTherapy technology to its maximum, by treating up to 35 patients per day. Other NHS TomoTherapy customer sites have demonstrated that this is possible in the UK, but of course this will be a tremendous achievement in Nottingham as we clearly expect that the treatments delivered on the TomoTherapy unit will have far higher quality and complexity than what is feasible on the linear accelerator it is replacing.”

TomoTherapy technology is developed and manufactured by TomoTherapy Inc., and is supplied in the UK by Oncology Systems Limited, based in Shrewsbury, England.

About Nottingham University Hospital
Nottingham City University Hospital NHS Trust (NUH) is one of England’s busiest and largest acute teaching trusts. It provides acute and specialist services to 2.5 million people within Nottingham and surrounding communities from the Queen’s Medical Centre and the City Hospital campuses. The hospital’s annual budget is in excess of £682 million of public sector funding, housing over 1,700 hospital beds and employing over 13,000 staff.

Nottingham is the only city in the country to secure three successful bids for prestigious biomedical research units. NUH is working with The University of Nottingham to help to translate research findings for stomach, bowel and liver disease, hearing and respiratory disease into better patient care.

About Oncology Systems Limited
Oncology Systems Limited (OSL) is a privately owned limited company based in Shrewsbury, England. OSL is an exclusive supplier of radiation therapy technology to the UK and Ireland. It distributes TomoTherapy® cancer treatment technology to the UK’s NHS and private radiotherapy facilities, and to both public and private providers in the Republic of Ireland.

About TomoTherapy Incorporated
TomoTherapy Incorporated develops, markets and sells advanced radiation therapy solutions that can be used to treat a wide variety of cancers, from the most common to the most complex. The ring gantry-based TomoTherapy® platform combines integrated CT imaging with conformal radiation therapy to deliver sophisticated radiation treatments with speed and precision while reducing radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. TomoTherapy’s suite of solutions include its flagship Hi·Art® treatment system, which has been used to deliver more than three million CT-guided, helical intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) treatment fractions; the TomoHD™ treatment system, designed to enable cancer centers to treat a broader patient population with a single device; and the TomoMobile™ relocatable radiation therapy solution, designed to improve access and availability of state-of-the-art cancer care. TomoTherapy’s stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol TOMO. To learn more about TomoTherapy, please visit TomoTherapy.com.

©2010 TomoTherapy Incorporated. All rights reserved. TomoTherapy, Tomo, TomoDirect, TQA, the TomoTherapy logo and Hi·Art are among trademarks, service marks or registered trademarks of TomoTherapy Incorporated in the United States and other countries.

Investor Contact:
Thomas E. Powell
Chief Financial Officer
608.824.2800
Email Contact

Media Contacts:
Kevin O’Malley
Director, Corporate Communications
608.824.3384
Email Contact

Susan Lehman
Rockpoint Public Relations
510.832.6006
Email Contact

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Top Women’s Health Site to Support and Fund Women’s Health Research Through a Global Web Campaign — Calls on 1 Million Women to Help

Posted on September 9, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: EmpowHER

SCOTTSDALE, AZ–(Marketwire – September 9, 2010) – Top 10 women’s health site EmpowHER today launched what is expected to be the largest online movement for women’s health in the next year — the 1000Women campaign.

Expecting to engage 1,000 women who will each recruit another 1,000 women to participate in this classic pay-it-forward viral effort; the campaign’s goal is to get 1 million women to share their inspirational health stories with friends, family, and women they’ve never even met. Campaign participants can do this by creating profiles on 1000Women.com where they can: “tell a friend” about the campaign; share their own personal health and wellness story — including pictures and videos if they wish, or simply vote for another woman’s story that inspires them.

When 1 million women have engaged in the campaign, EmpowHER will donate $50,000 toward women’s health research.

“Participants in this campaign are not required to spend a penny. Every time a new woman signs up to share a story, vote for a story, or share the campaign with others, money will be donated by EmpowHER to fund women’s health research,” said Thom Brodeur, Chief Marketing Officer for EmpowHER and campaign architect. “Our challenge to women is simple. Open your hearts, log onto the website, and pass it along. We’ll open our wallet and do the rest. We’re partnering with women to improve their health and change their lives, and we’re honored to play a role.”

The majority of campaign funds will be donated to HealthyWomen, the nation’s leading nonprofit health information source for women. For more than 20 years, HealthyWomen has been committed to improving women’s health through public education campaigns grounded in research among women nationwide.

“Studies show that when women share their health issues with other women, their state of mind improves, sometimes even having positive effects on their overall health,” said Jay K. Harness, MD, a member of EmpowHER’s Medical Advisory Board, President of Breast Surgery International and breast surgeon in Orange County, Calif. “For example, a recent report from the California HealthCare Foundation reported that when patients managing the same chronic condition share observations with each other, their collective wisdom can yield clinical insights well beyond the understanding of any single patient or physician.”

Dr. Harness, past president of the American Society of Breast Surgeons, goes on to say, “Studies have found that cancer patients who were isolated and lacked social interaction had greater tumor growth and worse prognosis. We firmly believe that loneliness and isolation can have a significant impact on a patient’s long-term battle with a disease.” Dr. Harness concluded that online communities are a great resource for patients to share and connect, but are not a substitution for oversight and guidance from a patient’s medical team.

“Women need to advocate for themselves and each other by calling for more gender-specific health research,” said Michelle King Robson, Founder, Chairperson and CEO of EmpowHER. “Much of the world’s health-related research remains male dominated, signaling there is still much to learn about women’s unique health conditions and the specific effects of procedures, drugs and diagnostics on women. This campaign was created to give women a voice in their own health, and to provide financial support to organizations dedicated to advancing women’s health research and advocacy.”

King Robson has witnessed this trend first-hand. Her site, launched just 24 months ago, reaches nearly 1.2 million unique visitors and viewers every month from women sharing their most intimate health conditions and then connecting with others for support. “I started this site after I experienced my own health nightmare and began telling my story. What has occurred has been a firestorm of other women who have found solace and better health by sharing on EmpowHER.com. We now want to take this to a new level of connectivity for all women around the globe by giving them a voice in their health through this campaign.”

To participate in the 1000Women Campaign, please visit www.1000Women.com.

About EmpowHER
EmpowHER is an award-winning health media company for women. The Company’s website provides visitors access to one of the largest women’s health and wellness content libraries on the web, as well as the largest online community of women discussing their health and wellness issues. EmpowHER promotes a “24 Hour Promise” to its visitors, who can come to the site, ask any health question and receive a response within 24 hours. Health care marketers rely on EmpowHER for reaching the most influential health and wellness buying audience on the Internet — women. Millions of women visit EmpowHER.com every year, making it one of the largest and fastest-growing resources dedicated exclusively to women’s health and wellness. For more, visit www.EmpowHER.com.

About HealthyWomen
HealthyWomen (HW) is the nation’s leading independent health information source for women. For more than 20 years, women have been coming to the HW for answers to their most pressing and personal health care questions. HW provides health information through a wide array of online content and print publications that are original, objective and reviewed and approved by medical experts. Its website, www.HealthyWomen.org®, was recognized by ForbesWoman as one of the “Top 100 Websites for Women” and was named the top women’s health website by Dr. Mehmet Oz in O, The Oprah Magazine and by Good Housekeeping magazine. To learn more, visit www.HealthyWomen.org.

Press Contacts
Joanna LeBlang
EmpowHER
(480) 315-1443
Email Contact

Jay Geer
Miller Geer Arizmendez
(562) 467-2020
Email Contact

Sandy Nesheiwat
Miller Geer Arizmendez
(562) 467-2020, ext 232
Email Contact

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Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Emerging Multi-Talented Rocker Graham Czach — Nominated for The Deli Chicago’s Artist of the Month — Teams With Planned Parenthood of Illinois at…

Posted on September 9, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Graham Czach

CHICAGO, IL–(Marketwire – September 8, 2010) –  Graham Czach‘s wild creativity and unique versatile sound have earned the Windy City native a nomination for The Deli Chicago’s Artist of the Month. Fans can vote online through September 15 by clicking http://chicago.thedelimagazine.com/snacks.

The socially conscious rocker (www.grahamczach.com) is also teaming up with Planned Parenthood of Illinois (PPIL) to celebrate the official release of his independent debut album Lucid on Friday, October 15 at Martyrs (3855 North Lincoln Ave.) in Chicago. The show begins at 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 and may be purchased at www.martyrslive.com or at the door.

With a Chicago Music Award under his belt, the versatile singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist will bring his modern and progressive rock sensibilities to life performing with the album’s original band members: drummer Kris Myers (Umphrey’s McGee), keyboardist Matt Nelson (Lupe Fiasco, Matthew Santos), guitarist Chris Siebold (Howard Levy, Kick the Cat) and bassist Graham Burris (Lupe Fiasco, Matthew Santos).

Czach — whose album includes a powerful song about abortion rights titled “Choice” — is donating a portion of sales generated from the event to PPIL. PPIL’s 17 health centers throughout the state deliver comprehensive reproductive health care services, sex education, and sexual health information to more than 60,000 women, men, and teens each year.

In addition to Planned Parenthood of Illinois, a portion of the proceeds from Lucid is being donated to other non-profit organizations including Greenpeace, the American Cancer Society and the Art of Living Foundation.

As Lucid sheds light on these important social issues and more, Czach draws on a fascinating, diverse musical background — which includes his work with Chicago Afrobeat Project — to create musical landscapes as compelling as the lyrics. He was recently interviewed by Skope Magazine‘s editor Mike Friedman and by Lisa Smith of The Blend Magazine for their Take Action Party surrounding his earth-friendly messages.

Tapping into his childhood where Led Zeppelin, The Beatles and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young were practically a religion, and later influences like Pink Floyd, Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Mars Volta and Jimi Hendrix, he infuses hard rocking, sometimes unusually metered grooves to four (and more) part vocal harmonies, beautiful acoustic melodies and vibrant unfolding string arrangements.

Contact:
Chrissy Sutphin
(818) 760-8077

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Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Medline’s Dubuque, Iowa State-of-the-Art Service Facility Awarded Silver LEED Certification

Posted on September 8, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Medline Industries, Inc.

The 66,000 Square-Foot Facility Receives Silver Certification From LEED for Its Green Impacts on the Environment

MUNDELEIN, IL–(Marketwire – September 8, 2010) –  A little over a year after Medline Industries, Inc., the largest privately held manufacturer and distributor of healthcare supplies in the U.S., completed and opened its new environmentally conscious service facility center in Dubuque, Iowa, the building officially received Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) silver certification.

LEED is an internationally recognized, third party validation system of certification for many buildings. It measures and evaluates design, construction, operation and maintenance solutions. LEED is generally viewed as a trusted benchmark for a building’s impact on the environment.

In order to receive this certification, Medline applied and the building was then evaluated by LEED, who allocated points based on preset green criteria — focusing on energy efficiency and CO2 reduction. There are seven areas on which LEED evaluated the service facility: sustainability of the site, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, indoor environmental quality, location and linkages, awareness and education, innovation in design and regional priority. To achieve silver certification, the second highest certification category, the service facility was awarded points that placed them in the 60-79 point range out of a 100-base point system. 

“The building was constructed with the environment and LEED certification in mind,” said Robert Abrams, the Corporate Director who oversaw the project. “Some of the green aspects of the 66,000-square-foot facility are daylight harvesting energy-efficient lighting, solar-tracking skylights, technologically advanced building insulation materials, tankless hot water heaters and a geothermal heating system.”

The installation of these and other green technologies resulted in an electrical use reduction of 320,565 kWh, which avoids more than 230 metric tons of carbon dioxide. This is equivalent to removing the CO2 emissions from 26,131 gallons of gasoline consumed or 535 barrels of oil consumed. All of this gathered points for certification as well as small things, such as close parking for a Prius, cubical walls made with recycled fabric that traveled less than 500 miles from their manufacturer and energy efficient trash management. 

“I think it demonstrates Medline’s commitment to the environment as a company, and it was important for our customers,” Abrams said. “We’re being asked more and more what we’re doing to reduce our carbon footprint.”

About Medline Industries, Inc. 
Medline, the nation’s largest privately held manufacturer and distributor of healthcare products, manufactures and distributes more than 100,000 products to hospitals, extended-care facilities, surgery centers, home care dealers and agencies. Headquartered in Mundelein, Ill., Medline has more than 900 dedicated sales representatives nationwide to support its broad product line and cost management services.

Over the past five years, Medline has been the fastest-growing distributor of medical and surgical supplies in the U.S., serving as the primary distributor to over 450 major hospitals and healthcare systems. As a leading distributor, Medline offers a comprehensive array of consulting and management services encompassing the supply chain and logistics, utilization and standardization, business tools and enhanced reporting capabilities and on-staff clinicians.

Media Contacts:
Jerreau Beaudoin
(847) 643-3011

John Marks
(847) 643-3309

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Coventry Health Care to Speak at the Morgan Stanley Global Healthcare Conference

Posted on September 8, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Coventry Health Care, Inc.

BETHESDA, MD–(Marketwire – September 8, 2010) –  Coventry Health Care, Inc. (NYSE: CVH) announced today that John Stelben, Interim Chief Financial Officer, is scheduled to present at the Morgan Stanley Global Healthcare Conference in New York, New York, at 1:00 p.m. ET on Monday, September 13, 2010. 

The public may access a live webcast of the presentation on the Investor Relations page of Coventry’s website at www.coventryhealthcare.com. A replay of the presentation will be available at the same website following the presentation until Monday, September 20, 2010.

Coventry Health Care (www.coventryhealthcare.com) is a diversified national managed healthcare company based in Bethesda, Maryland, operating health plans, insurance companies, network rental and workers’ compensation services companies. Coventry provides a full range of risk and fee-based managed care products and services to a broad cross section of individuals, employer and government-funded groups, government agencies, and other insurance carriers and administrators.

Contact:
Drew Asher
SVP, Corporate Finance
(301) 581-5717

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

InoLife Technologies, Inc. Announces Immediate Availability of the Cytochrome P450 2C1 Plavix Metabolizing Test to the Medical Industry

Posted on September 8, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: InoLife Technologies Inc.

RALEIGH, NC–(Marketwire – September 8, 2010) –  InoLife Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB: INOL), a service based healthcare products development, integration and marketing Company, is extremely pleased that their recently presented Cytochrome P450 2C1 test to determine a person’s ability to metabolize Plavix is immediately available to the medical industry which includes physicians, hospitals, medical clinics, and pharmacies. Physicians are currently placing orders on a daily basis and are incorporating the Cytochrome P450 2C1 Plavix Metabolizing test into their patients health programs. 

InoLife’s Cytochrome P450 2C1 test is currently being used to identify how a patient’s genetics may affect the body’s response to Plavix (Clopidogrel). The test is available through the medical community only including physicians, hospitals, and medical clinics. This test is not available for sale to the general public.

According to the FDA in a press release dated March 12th, 2010 it is estimated that 2 percent to 14 percent of the U.S. population are poor metabolizers of certain medications. In 2009 the Federal Drug Administration approved wording on the drug label encouraging genetic testing for DNA variants based on specific risks. It is important to note that this drug metabolism test is not all-inclusive and is for the physician’s guidance only.

InoLife has incorporated the EasiCollect™ System, which combines an optimized foam collection surface with an FTA card for collection of buccal cells and preservation of DNA. InoLife prides itself in providing the EasiCollect™ System that adheres to the strict guidelines of the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) that monitors approximately 200,000 laboratory entities. The Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services regulates all laboratory testing (except research) performed on humans in the U.S. through CLIA.

About InoLife Technologies, Inc.
InoLife is poised to become one of the premier U.S. marketers of state-of-the-art DNA-based test products. Positioned for growth and success in a burgeoning market, InoLife Technologies, www.inolifetech.com, is primarily focused on products, services and solutions that will enable state-of-the-art healthcare for today and the future for a diverse base of customers and end users. The Company’s mission is to identify, develop, integrate and bring to market innovative healthcare-based products and services that provide timely and practical solutions. The primary products and services that InoLife is currently addressing focuses upon those specific products and services that provide key solutions through the innovative use of specific DNA testing and Genetic analysis systems.

The principal customers of InoLife’s products and services are healthcare providers, physicians, practitioners, hospitals and outpatient facilities. InoLife will be marketing and distributing its products through traditional distribution channels. Additionally InoLife has developed certain products that can be sold directly to consumers and has created specific programs to reach those customers including e-commerce, direct sales, healthcare providers, pharmacies, distributors, retail sellers and specialty retailers.

(Plavix is a trademark of Bristol-Myers Squibb/Sanofi Pharmaceuticals Partnership.)

Forward-Looking Statements
Safe Harbor Statement under the Private securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: The statements contained herein, which are not historical, are forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, certain delays beyond the Company’s control with respect to market acceptance of new technologies, products and services, delays in testing and evaluation of products and services, and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

ALDA Pharmaceuticals Closes Private Placement for Gross Proceeds of $327,500

Posted on September 8, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA–(Marketwire – Sept. 8, 2010) – ALDA Pharmaceuticals Corp. (TSX VENTURE:APH)(OTCQB:APCSF) (the “Company”) is pleased to announce that it has closed the private placement announced July 27th, 2010. A total of 3,275,000 Units of the Company were issued at a price of $0.10 per Unit for gross proceeds of $327,500. All securities issued with respect to the private placement will be subject to a hold period expiring on January 8, 2011 in accordance with the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange and applicable Canadian securities laws. 

Each Unit consists of one common share of ALDA and one non-transferable share purchase warrant entitling the holder to acquire one additional common share of ALDA at a price of $0.20 per common share for a period of two (2) years from the date of the issuance of the purchase warrant with a forced exercise provision attached to each warrant commencing on the day following the expiry of any applicable hold period on the underlying Common Share, stating that if, for ten consecutive trading days, the closing price of the listed shares of the Company exceeds $0.40 then the exercise period of the warrants will be reduced to a period of 10 days following such trading days. Net proceeds from the offering will be used for working capital.

The Company paid finders’ fees of $2,250 (5% of the gross proceeds of $45,000) to certain registrants with respect to the offering.

Insiders of ALDA subscribed for 677,500 Units on the same terms as arm’s length investors, constituting a related party transaction pursuant to Multilateral Instrument 61-101 and TSX Venture Exchange Policy 5.9. Such Insider participation was exempt from the requirement to obtain an independent valuation pursuant to Section 5.5(b) of MI 61-101 and the requirement to obtain minority shareholder approval pursuant to Section 5.7(1)(b) of MI 61-101.

About ALDA Pharmaceuticals Corp.

ALDA is focused on the development of infection-control therapeutics derived from its patented T36® technology. The company trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol APH and on the OTCQB under the symbol APCSF. The Company was the Official Supplier to the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games and the Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Winter Games and is the Official Supplier to the Canadian Olympic Committee, the 2010 Canadian Olympic Team and the 2012 Canadian Olympic Team for antiseptic hand sanitizer, disinfectant and disinfectant cleaning products. The Company was also selected as one of the TSX Venture 50 companies in the Technology and Life Sciences sector for 2010.

Terrance G. Owen, Ph.D., MBA
President & CEO
ALDA Pharmaceuticals Corp.
www.aldacorp.com

The Units, common shares, warrants and the common shares issuable upon exercise of the warrants have not been registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 (the “Act”) and may not be offered or sold absent registration under the Act or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements thereof. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction or an exemption therefrom.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Statements: Information in this press release that involves ALDA’s expectations, plans, intentions or strategies regarding the future are forward-looking statements that are not facts and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. ALDA generally uses words such as “outlook”, “will”, “could”, “would”, “might”, “remains”, “to be”, “plans”, “believes”, “may”, “expects”, “intends”, “anticipates”, “estimate”, “future”, “plan”, “positioned”, “potential”, “project”, “remain”, “scheduled”, “set to”, “subject to”, “upcoming”, and similar expressions to help identify forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are based upon information available to ALDA as of the date of this release, and ALDA assumes no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements believed to be true when made may ultimately prove to be incorrect. These statements are not guarantees of the future performance of ALDA and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond its control and may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations.

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Radically Transform a Hospital With Good Old-Fashioned Guts, Entrepreneurialism and … Lawyers?

Posted on September 8, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Compass Clinical Consulting

Compass Clinical Consulting Launches “Profiles in Healthcare Leadership”

CINCINNATI, OH–(Marketwire – September 8, 2010) –  Compass Clinical Consulting features Jim Anderson, Chief Executive Officer of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center (1996-2010), in a newly published, in-depth monograph on leadership excellence in healthcare.

LONG AGO AND FAR AWAY

In 1996, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center (CCHMC) had 3,500 employees, 365,000 yearly patient encounters and $453 million in revenue. At the time, the hospital was looking for a new CEO to transform, grow and lead the organization into an uncertain future.

SAFE & OBVIOUS CHOICE

The safe and obvious selection would have been a candidate with extensive hospital administration training and long-term, proven leadership experience.

But, the CCHMC Board chose exactly the opposite.

A LAWYER … WITH A LEAN MANUFACTURING BACKGROUND?

They selected a lifelong attorney with a manufacturing executive background — a lawyer with an entrepreneurial bent and appreciation of lean manufacturing principles — James M. Anderson.

AND THAT MADE ALL THE DIFFERENCE

In all measures, the hospital’s success and growth under Jim Anderson’s visionary leadership was extraordinary. When he retired at the end of 2009, CCHMC had grown to over 11,000 employees, 925,000 yearly patient encounters and $1.6 billion in revenue. Under Mr. Anderson’s leadership CCHMC was transformed from a small regional hospital serving the greater Cincinnati area into an internationally recognized leader in improving healthcare outcomes, experience and results for children.

HOW DID IT HAPPEN?

To learn more, read the newly published Compass Clinical Consulting “Profiles in Healthcare Leadership” monograph, featuring hard-won lessons from Jim Anderson’s career at CCHMC.

Key Lessons for Hospital Leaders:

  • How setting a goal at zero defects changes your aspirational framework and exemplifies the extraordinary commitment required of patient- and family-centered care
  • What to do when your best people tell you it can’t be done — and how to do it anyway, saving lives
  • Lead with lawyers to reduce hospital, healthcare and legal costs
  • How to build an Entrepreneurial Healthcare Organization
  • One simple message to align the workforce and leadership

Compass Clinical Consulting’s “Profiles in Healthcare Leadership” are the products of interviews with transformational leaders in today’s healthcare industry — all of whom have demonstrated courage, ingenuity and the hard work needed to create dramatic, measurable and sustainable improvements in healthcare. These featured leaders challenge assumptions, see things differently and create remarkable breakthroughs.

DOWNLOAD your copy of Profiles in Healthcare Leadership: An Interview with Jim Anderson

About:
Compass Clinical is a healthcare consultancy founded in 1979 and based in Cincinnati, OH. Compass experts have helped hundreds of hospitals and health systems prepare for accreditation, optimize labor cost management, manage clinical resources, and improve patient throughput and physician relations. Compass also places interim healthcare executives.

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

VHA Names Hare to Lead Regional Office Covering Alabama and Florida

Posted on September 8, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: VHA

IRVING, TX–(Marketwire – September 8, 2010) –  VHA Inc., the national health care network, announced today that Cynthia Hare, vice president of performance improvement, is being promoted to senior vice president and executive officer over the VHA Southeast regional office, one of 16 VHA regional offices, effective Oct. 1, 2010. She will succeed Lee Lawrence, who will retire at year-end. Hare and Lawrence will collaborate to develop the leadership transition plan and develop a platform that allows VHA to continue to provide strategic support to its members in the region.

“Cynthia has directed VHA’s efforts to engage and support members in clinical performance improvement activities for 20 years. As result of her leadership, VHA members in Alabama and Florida have been among the first hospitals in the nation to implement rapid response teams and clinical improvement projects, making a significant impact on patient care and serving as models for hospitals across the nation,” said Byron Jobe, group senior vice president and chief financial officer at VHA. “Cynthia will continue to provide strong leadership for the region in her new role,” said Jobe.

Prior to joining VHA Southeast in May 1990, Hare worked for eight years with Andersen Consulting, now Accenture, in Tampa, Fla., where she managed large-scale information system installations, consulted on health care strategy planning, and managed the national installation of VHA’s clinical financial decision support system, gaining early insight into how VHA could help hospitals improve their decision making.

Hare earned her bachelor of science degree in biochemistry from Queens College in Charlotte, N.C., and her master’s degree in business administration from Florida State University in Tallahassee. While completing her undergraduate and graduate work, she worked as a medical technician at various hospitals.

Based in Tampa, Fla., VHA Southeast serves approximately 90 hospitals in Alabama and Florida.

About VHA
VHA Inc., based in Irving, Texas, is a national network of not-for-profit health care organizations that work together to drive maximum savings in the supply chain arena, set new levels of clinical performance and identify and implement best practices to improve operational efficiency and clinical outcomes. In 2009, VHA delivered record savings and value of $1.47 billion to members. Formed in 1977, through its 16 regional offices, VHA serves 1,400 hospitals and more than 30,000 non-acute care providers nationwide. VHA was ranked by Modern Healthcare as the 7th best place to work in health care in 2009.

Media Contact:
Lynn Gentry
Email Contact

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

CEGEDIM : Acquisition of French company Deskom

Posted on September 8, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: CEGEDIM

BOULOGNE-BILLANCOURT, FRANCE–(Marketwire – September 8, 2010) – Cegedim: acquisition of French
company Deskom

Deal allows Cegedim to strengthen its positions in the European invoice
dematerialization market

Paris, September 8, 2010 – Cegedim, a global technology and services
company specializing in the healthcare field, announces the acquisition of
Deskom, a leading French B-to-B invoice dematerialization company. The deal
is an opportunity for Cegedim EDI, its professional electronic data
management department, to build on its leadership in the field.

The Deskom acquisition allows Cegedim EDI, the healthcare data exchange
leader, to move ahead with its strategy of opening its services to all
business sectors and becoming Europe’s top electronic invoicing network,
able to handle any request regardless of invoice volumes, project
complexity, or the number of countries involved.

Created in 2004, Deskom markets a complete range of e-invoicing services,
from invoice digitization and publishing to tax dematerialization and legal
archiving. It has more than 2,000 clients in a wide range of industrial and
service fields: transport, energy, manufacturing, distribution, retail,
automobiles, banking/insurance and services. With a dynamic structure built
on a human scale, Deskom has been experiencing robust revenue growth since
2006.

After ushering Deskom through a robust growth phase, the company’s
shareholders – the Galileo and 123Venture investment funds – have chosen to
pass the torch to Cegedim, an industry shareholder with the know-how to
unlock Deskom’s significant potential.

The first company in France to offer e-invoices authorized by the Direction
Générale des Impôts tax authority in 1992, Cegedim
successfully launched its Global Invoice Services offering in 2005,
available in SAAS delivery. Since then, the company has carried out more
than 150 large-scale dematerialization projects involving close to 50,000
partners in France and in Europe.

“In a rapidly growing market buoyed by companies’ desire to optimize their
processes, cut costs and reduce their environmental impact, this
acquisition gives us the opportunity to put together a comprehensive
offering without precedent with respect to the range of functions and the
staff expertise and resources needed to successfully execute client
projects in France and abroad,” says Arnaud Guyon, Head of Cegedim Group
dematerialization activities.

“The market needs well-established electronic data exchange specialists
with the critical size needed to handle invoice dematerialization and
archiving operations. By joining the Cegedim Group, Deskom is securing its
future and strengthening its position to help its clients and improve its
prospects. It is also an opportunity to expand its service offering to all
types of electronic messages. This link-up will also allow us to create
Europe’s top multi-sector e-invoicing network,” says Cyrille Sautereau,
Director of Deskom.

The deal was finalized on September 6, 2010 by internal financing. These
activities represent annual revenues of around 4 million euros and will be
part of the consolidation scope of Cegedim Group for H2 2010.

About Cegedim EDI and Global Invoice Services: Cegedim EDI is the
department of Cegedim Group specializing in electronic data interchange.
Initially focused on the healthcare sector, the business now caters to a
wide range of sectors like mass-market retail, automobiles, transportation,
and so on. Its Global Invoice Services (GIS) platform permits the
connection and exchange of invoices between suppliers and clients equipped
with heterogeneous information systems. Totally compliant with current EU
laws, Global Invoice Services makes it possible for users to manage all
functional, technical and legal aspects of electronic invoicing, archiving
and restitution. For more information: www.cegedim-demat.com and
www.global-invoice-services.com

About Cegedim: Founded in 1969, Cegedim is a global technology and services
company specializing in the healthcare field. Cegedim supplies services,
technological tools, specialized software, data flow management services
and databases. Its offerings are targeted notably at healthcare industries,
life sciences companies, healthcare professionals and insurance companies.
The world leader in life sciences CRM, Cegedim is also one of the leading
suppliers of strategic healthcare industry data. Cegedim employs 8,600
people in more than 80 countries and generated revenue of ?874 million
in 2009. Cegedim SA is listed in Paris (EURONEXT: CGM). To learn more,
please visit: www.cegedim.com

This information is provided by HUGIN

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Pediatric Cataract Initiative Seeking Applicants for Inaugural Research Grant

Posted on September 8, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Bausch + Lomb

ROCHESTER, NY–(Marketwire – September 8, 2010) –  The Pediatric Cataract Initiative (www.PediatricCataract.org) is now accepting applicants for its inaugural single small research grant. US$75,000 will be awarded to a qualified individual, institution or organization investigating the causes of pediatric cataract and/or improved treatment tools and protocols. The submission deadline is November 15, 2010.

The grant is intended to support innovative research that can be carried out in 12 months with limited resources. Applicants may submit more than one proposal provided that each is scientifically distinct. Please visit www.pediatriccataract.org/grant_funding.html to download the complete request for proposals.

The newly founded Pediatric Cataract Initiative is a partnership between the Bausch + Lomb Early Vision Institute and Lions Clubs International Foundation to identify, fund and promote innovative methods of overcoming pediatric cataract — a debilitating childhood condition that clouds the eye’s natural lens — for the long-term benefit of children, their families and their communities.

In addition to its global research grant, the Initiative is committing funding and support during its first year to innovative, scalable prevention and treatment programs in the People’s Republic of China, where at least 40,000 children are estimated to suffer from pediatric cataract. The prevalence of pediatric cataract ranges from one to four children per 10,000 births in developing countries — ten times the rate of occurrence in developed nations.

For additional information, visit www.PediatricCataract.org or follow the Initiative at www.twitter.com/PCInitiative and www.Facebook.com/PediatricCataract.

About the Bausch + Lomb Early Vision Institute
The Bausch + Lomb Early Vision Institute is a program of the global eye health company focusing on children’s vision research, treatment, prevention and advocacy. Founded in 1853, Bausch + Lomb is one of the best-known and most respected healthcare brands in the world, with its contact lenses and solutions, ophthalmic pharmaceuticals, and ophthalmic surgical products available in approximately 100 countries. For more information, visit www.bausch.com/.

About Lions Clubs International Foundation
Lions Clubs International Foundation is the grant-making body of Lions Clubs International, the world’s largest volunteer service organization. The LCIF SightFirst program, Lions’ flagship initiative, builds comprehensive eye care systems to fight the major causes of blindness and care for blind and visually impaired persons. Since 1990, the SightFirst program has helped restore sight to more than 30 million people around the world, having invested more than US$237 million in surgeries, the improvement of hundreds of eye care facilities and training of thousands of eye care professionals. For more information, visit www.lcif.org.

News Media Contacts:
Mike McDougall, APR
Vice President, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs
Bausch + Lomb
+1-585-338-5469
[email protected]

Nicole Brown
Communications Manager
Lions Clubs International Foundation
+1-630-468-6887
[email protected]

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

New Preschool and Recreational Facility Responds to Growing Need for Calgary Childcare Services

Posted on September 8, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

CALGARY, ALBERTA–(Marketwire – Sept. 8, 2010) – Today, Brite Studios (Brite), a centre for learning, activity and family engagement, announced the launch of their new name and location. Formerly known as Calgary Children’s Centre, Brite is a preschool and recreational facility providing unique programs to children of all ages.

The Honourable Ron Liepert and Alderman Joe Connelly were in attendance at the event to launch innovative childcare programs at the new location and to show their support for the facility. “We’re thrilled to be celebrating the opening of our new location, and our new name speaks to the facility’s collaborative nature,” said Lisa Davis, Founder and CEO of Brite Studios. “Brite provides families with a wide range of options for childcare, and gives kids the opportunity to grow and develop in an environment that keeps their imaginations stimulated. The community has been very welcoming and we look forward to the exciting new initiatives at Brite Studios.”

The opening took place at Brite’s new location in southwest Calgary. The launch included a creative ribbon cutting ceremony as well as a performance by some of the children that attend Brite. The new facility responds to the need for more specialized childcare in the community.

Due to high rent prices for commercial real estate, most preschools are located in church basements and community centres. With a combination of preschool and recreational programs, Brite has found an innovative way to sustain a commercial location.

Brite offers the highest quality programs available. “When developing our curriculum, we use only the most effective teaching methods and are one of the few preschools to use Reggio Emilia techniques” said Davis. “Our approach emphasizes creative learning and ensures that each child receives an education well-suited to their needs, interests and abilities.”

Brite is unique in that it offers both half and full day preschool services as well as recreational classes. With advisement of experts in the field of youth education, Brite employs the most progressive programs and teaching methods. The facility offers a range of creative programs for children, as well as adult classes.

For more information on Brite Studios please visit www.britestudios.ca.

About Brite Studios

Brite Studios, formerly known as Calgary Children’s Centre, is a preschool and recreational facility. Brite provides both half and full day preschool programs, as well as a wide range of recreational programs for children and adults. Programs include princess dance class, kid karate, vocal lessons, art classes and yoga. Brite is known for their enthusiasm and creativity in the development of curriculum. For more information please visit www.britestudios.ca.

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Care Share Providing Three Days of Learning & Collaboration for NC Health Care Safety Net Partners

Posted on September 8, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Care Share Health Alliance

Regional Workshops Feature Health Reform, Local Successes and the Funders’ Perspective

RALEIGH, NC–(Marketwire – September 8, 2010) –  Care Share Health Alliance is gathering some of the best health care minds in the state and bringing them together for three interactive meetings across North Carolina this fall. These sessions will provide North Carolina safety net partners with the opportunity to:

  • interact with state and local leaders on best practices in developing collaborative networks of care;
  • hear how health reform may affect them and the safety net;
  • learn from state, regional and local funders how to effectively work with funders during these challenging economic times.

The meetings are open to the public and targeted toward those who provide health care services to low-income uninsured populations, or those who are involved in guiding or navigating the uninsured to resources for care. This includes, but is not limited to, anyone involved with organizations such as: hospitals, community health centers, Federally Qualified Health Centers, rural health centers, health departments, free clinics, HealthNet networks, departments of social services, medical societies, dental societies, Area Health Education Centers, behavioral health organizations and other nonprofit agencies. 

“We chose to hold three regional meetings instead of one statewide meeting to make these workshops as convenient as possible for safety net partners and to make the content as locally relevant as possible,” says Care Share Executive Director Kellan Chapin. “Participants will get to hear from state health care leaders, but will also get to interact with their regional colleagues and learn from each other.”

Sessions take place:

  • Friday, Sept. 24 in Asheville
  • Tuesday, Oct. 5 in Greenville
  • Thursday, Oct. 21 in Greensboro

The workshops run 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and a $50 registration fee covers workshop supplies, a light continental breakfast, lunch and other refreshments.

The Asheville workshop features Karen Minyard, director of the Georgia Health Policy Center, discussing health care reform. The Greenville session features Pam Silberman, president of the North Carolina Institute of Medicine, on health care reform, and Tami Eldridge, Scott Whisnant and Sheila Roberts from Cape Fear HealthNet on tools and best practices for building collaboration among safety net partners. And the Greensboro meeting features: Dr. Robert Strack, head of the Department of Public Health Education at UNC Greensboro discussing a community approach to improving health; psychologist Dr. Doris Paez of NC State University on tools and best practices for collaboration building; and attorney Alicia Gilleskie of Smith Anderson discussing HIPAA, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, and tools for sharing data.

Register and get more information at www.caresharehealth.org or call 919-861-8353.

About Care Share
Care Share is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, statewide resource that helps communities develop comprehensive networks to coordinate care for low-income uninsured and underserved populations. Care Share helps communities by: bringing people together to create a shared plan for serving those in need; sharing knowledge and resources within communities; and sharing best practices and guidance among communities across the state.

Assistance is available to communities throughout the state at no charge. Call 919-861-8353 for more information.

Contact:
Linda Kinney, MHA
Director, Collaborative Network Development
Care Share Health Alliance
(919) 861-8356
Email Contact

Kellan Chapin, MPH
Executive Director
Care Share Health Alliance
(919) 861-8357
Email Contact

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Fighting for the Families Who Fight for Us: First Ever National Campaign Benefiting Military Families Impacted by Autism Launches

Posted on September 8, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: ACT Today! (Autism Care and Treatment Today!)

Campaign Kicks Off With PSA Featuring “Criminal Minds” Veteran Actor, Joe Mantegna

TARZANA, CA–(Marketwire – September 8, 2010) –  A crisis faces our military families, today. 1 in 88 military children have autism and less than 10 percent are receiving recommended care and treatments. This is why ACT Today! (Autism Care and Treatment Today!), a non-profit organization dedicated to providing grant money for families that cannot afford or access the treatments needed for their autistic children, is launching the first ever national campaign titled, “ACT Today! for Military Families.” Executive Director of ACT Today!, Nancy Alspaugh-Jackson, states, “The military healthcare system limits coverage of vital treatments, and provides less than half of the therapy recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics and National Research Council. ACT Today! for Military Families will bridge the gap for military families until policy can be addressed. It is our goal to raise one million dollars to help fund treatment for these special children.”

The campaign kicks off with the airing of a PSA on the Fox Television Networks featuring the star of “Criminal Minds,” veteran actor Joe Mantegna. Mantegna, who has a daughter with autism, states, “Having a child with autism, I know how difficult it can be for people less fortunate than I to obtain proper treatment for their special needs children. I especially appreciate the unique challenges our military faces in battling on two fronts — one for their country, and another for their families.” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GTQEkGYJQjw.

Numerous events are planned throughout the country to promote the campaign. There will be a family festival and a 5K/10K run in San Diego, CA on April 2, 2011.

The Facts:

  • The military healthcare system funding is limited to approximately 11 hours of treatment a week. A minimum of 25 hours a week is recommended.
  • 25 Hours/week treatment program costs roughly $6,500/month. A Sergeant’s salary averages about $2,700/ month.

Alspaugh-Jackson says, “The math doesn’t work. The system doesn’t work. No family should be stuck in this position, let alone the families of service members who fight and die for us.”

Marine Corps wife Karen Driscoll, mother of a child with autism and Campaign Director of ACT Today! for Military Families, recently met with First Lady Michelle Obama to discuss this dire situation. “Every day we delay care, we relegate more military children with autism to a life with fewer options or opportunities. I believe we have a duty as mothers, fathers, leaders, lawmakers, and citizens to care for our military families and provide access to the care and support they require. It is simply the right thing to do.”

To learn more about ACT Today for Military Families, visit www.acttodayformilitaryfamilies.org

Contact:
Helaine Ross Public Relations
310-246-1872
Email Contact

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

St. John’s Hospital Selects Patient Care Technology Systems’ Amelior Tracker(R)

Posted on September 8, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Patient Care Technology Systems

System Will Track Medical Equipment and Have the Ability to Expand Into Other Key Departments

CHARLOTTE, NC–(Marketwire – September 8, 2010) –  Patient Care Technology Systems (PCTS), a subsidiary of Consulier Engineering, Inc. (NASDAQ: CSLR), today announced that St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, IL has selected the company’s Amelior Tracker® system to automatically track medical equipment throughout their facility. This system will become the standard within the healthcare network.

St. John’s Hospital is part of the Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS) which is a multi-institutional health care system that sponsors 13 hospitals in 12 communities across Illinois and Wisconsin with St. John’s being the largest hospital within the system. The hospital is a 539-bed acute care, teaching facility that helps to educate more than 300 medical students and 150 resident physicians each year, and is the only level III perinatal care center in central Illinois.

With the Amelior Tracker® system, St. John’s Hospital has a specific need to track their mobile medical equipment allowing them to increase equipment utilization, decrease the requirement to rent additional units and have more consistent preventative maintenance for maximum operating performance. They will start with tracking 2500 assets including IV pumps, beds, C5 tablets, DVT equipment and feeding pumps. Amelior Tracker will integrate with the CenTrak Gen2IR™ active RF technology tags providing precise, adaptable and cost-effective medical equipment tracking.

The installation, expected to be complete by the end of 2010 will include the Amelior Tracker® solution — part of the Amelior Enterprise Visibility and Workflow Automation Suite™ which comprises department to facility-wide software solutions and services designed to more efficiently and safely orchestrate patient care through the real-time visualization of patient flow. Hospitals can scale their implementations by the entities they wish to track (movable medical equipment, patients, staff), purpose (temperature monitoring, asset management, patient flow, infection control) and by the scope of hospital workflow (acute care, inpatient floors, outpatient services, enterprise-wide).

Amelior Tracker is interoperable with all major locating technologies including active-RFID, infrared, ultrasound, ultra-wideband, Wi-Fi and ZigBee. PCTS also works closely with a network of successful locating hardware partners and provides consulting services so the best locating technology or technologies are chosen to match the client’s particular needs. In addition, the Amelior Interface Gateway™ supports the exchange of data between an Amelior tracking or documentation solution and virtually any hospital information system. Key functions include sending/ receiving, data transformation, transaction logging, administration/monitoring and notifications. These platforms work together to offer extensive performance and workflow advantages to the healthcare industry.

“When researching our options, we felt it was very important that any system we chose be able to expand to our other facilities within the network and allow the flexibility to incorporate the various RTLS needs of each location,” said Ryan Leach, chief information officer for St. John’s Hospital. “PCTS has an outstanding reputation with strong customer references and proved to be a trusted advisor. Interoperability with the various RTLS technologies was one of the many benefits of choosing PCTS.”

“We are very excited to partner with St. John’s Hospital. Their materials management, network engineering, information systems and biomedical teams understood the importance of looking beyond asset ‘dots on a map’ tracking to the opportunity of having true workflow automation,” said Tony Marsico, president and chief executive officer of PCTS. “We look forward to a solid execution of the installation and the opportunity to serve other facilities within the network in the near future.”

PCTS will have the opportunity to expand their Amelior Enterprise Visibility and Workflow Automation Suite into other facilities within the Hospital Sisters Health System. St. John’s recently announced the expansion of their surgical department and patient tower that will add an additional 16 surgical suites and provide a more efficient footprint for easy access to a variety of services including outpatient and inpatient surgery. 

About St. John’s Hospital

St. John’s Hospital is a regional medical center that offers a comprehensive array of tertiary healthcare services to a population base of 1.5 million central and southern Illinois residents. St. John’s is the flagship hospital of Hospital Sisters Health System, a healthcare ministry with 13 hospitals and a multi-specialty medical group in Illinois and Wisconsin. Prairie Heart Institute at St. John’s Hospital is a national leader in cardiovascular care. St. John’s Children’s Hospital is accredited by the National Association of Children’s Hospitals and Related Institutions (N.A.C.H.R.I.) and is the regions only Pediatric Critical Care Center. The Children’s Hospital is home to the areas only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. St. John’s is designated as a Level I Trauma Center on a yearly rotating basis, serves as a teaching hospital for the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, as has its own School of Nursing. St. John’s is also home to the Cancer Institute, Carol Jo Vecchie Women Services/Birth Center, Regional Wound Care Center, AthletiCare Sports Medicine, Sleep Center and Center for Living. 

About Patient Care Technology Systems

Patient Care Technology Systems, a subsidiary of Consulier Engineering, Inc. (NASDAQ: CSLR), helps health care providers to improve patient flow, increase capacity and improve patient and staff safety by visualizing the real-time location and status of people and equipment throughout their facility. PCTS solutions have supported over 2 million patient visits annually and have shown a proven return on investment in high turnover, high-acuity units such as the emergency department and perioperative suites. The Amelior Enterprise Visibility and Workflow Automation Suite™ is interoperable with all leading locating technologies, including active-RFID, infrared, ultrasound, ultra-wideband, Wi-Fi and ZigBee. PCTS customers have been recognized nationally for improvements in efficiency and clinical excellence. For more information, visit www.pcts.com. 

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of federal securities laws. PCTS and CSLR caution you that any statements contained in this press release which are not strictly historical statements constitute forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, those related to PCTS’s and CSLR’s expectations regarding continued business growth. These statements are neither promises nor guarantees, and involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking statements, (copies of which may be obtained at the SEC’s website at: http://www.sec.gov) — could impact the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. Readers should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made. PCTS and CSLR disclaim any obligation to publicly update or revise any such statements to reflect any change in PCTS and CSLR’s expectations, or in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statements may be based, or that may affect the likelihood that actual results will differ from those set forth in the forward-looking statements.

Contact:
Karen Beran
Marketing Manager
Patient Care Technology Systems, LLC.
714-642-1056
www.pcts.com

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Virgin HealthMiles to Examine Role of Prevention in New Healthcare Legislation During Free Webinar

Posted on September 8, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Virgin HealthMiles

BOSTON, MA–(Marketwire – September 8, 2010) –  Virgin HealthMiles, a leading provider of employee health and productivity programs that reward individuals for getting healthy, today announced it will host a free webinar focused on the role of prevention in the new healthcare reform legislation and how organizations can obtain measurable business value from their healthcare decisions.

The webinar, “Healthcare Reform: The Role of Prevention in the New Legislation,” will be held Tuesday, September 14, 2010, from 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. ET. 

Virgin HealthMiles President Sean Forbes will be joined in the webinar by Brian Klepper, an expert on healthcare reform. Klepper is an Aspen Institute Health Forum Fellow and serves as one of only three non-physicians on the International Editorial Board of the Medscape Journal of Medicine. He is also a health care columnist for American City Business Journals and writes for The Health Care Blog.

During this webinar, the presenters we will take a strategic and tactical look at the role of wellness in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), including:

  • A high-level summary of the PPACA with a focus on the wellness provisions
  • A chronological look at the impact of reform on business
  • How to obtain measurable business value from a company’s healthcare decisions

To register for the live webinar, please visit:
https://event.on24.com/eventRegistration/EventLobbyServlet?target=registration.jsp&eventid=239510&sessionid=1&key=1A9E973CA1C8590F6C3EEBEE02EAEB02&partnerref=VHMPress

A free recording of the webinar will be available on the Virgin HealthMiles website at: www.virginhealthmiles.com. 

About Virgin HealthMiles
Virgin HealthMiles provides employee health programs that pay people to get active. The company’s Pay-for-Prevention™ approach, based on physical activity and healthy lifestyle change, attracts an average of 40 percent of employees who participate, which helps organizations reduce medical costs and improve employee productivity and satisfaction. The program is offered by employers, government entities, and insurers. Over 120 industry leaders representing more than 500,000 employees across the U.S., including American Diabetes Association, Intuit, OhioHealth, Ochsner Health System, MWV, Protective Life, SunGard, SunTrust, and Timberland have selected Virgin HealthMiles’ award-winning program for their employees. The company is a member of Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Group. For more information, visit www.virginhealthmiles.com

Media Contact:
Kathy Wilson
Email Contact
781-652-0499

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Benefits of TomoTherapy(R) Radiation Therapy Highlighted in 82 Studies to Be Presented at ESTRO 29 in Barcelona

Posted on September 8, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: TomoTherapy

Researchers Explore Use for Head, Neck, Prostate, Breast and Lung Tumors, as Well as More Complex Blood Cancer and Mesothelioma Treatments

MADISON, WS–(Marketwire – September 8, 2010) –  TomoTherapy Incorporated (NASDAQ: TOMO), maker of advanced radiation therapy solutions for cancer care, today announced that 82 studies examining the use of the TomoTherapy® treatment system to treat common, complex and rare tumors throughout the body will be showcased at ESTRO 29, September 12-16, 2010, in Barcelona. The studies examine use of the TomoTherapy system on head and neck, prostate, breast and lung tumors, as well as for treating blood cancers, mesothelioma and pediatric patients.

In one of the most promising papers, researchers from San Raffaele Scientific Institute in Milan, Italy compared TomoTherapy to other radiation therapy solutions using Pareto front analysis to explore the ability of these treatment methods to improve target coverage without sacrificing organs at risk (OAR) or other constraints. Researchers reported that “for all simulations RapidArc® met less of the optimization criteria, while TomoTherapy was able to produce the most homogeneous dose and have the capability to conform dose distributions better than RapidArc®.”

Head and Neck Cancers
Among the numerous studies on head and neck tumors, two studies compare arc therapy to helical TomoTherapy radiation delivery. Exploring the treatment of patients with oropharyngeal cancer, researchers in Belgium and the Netherlands concluded that in the treatment of head and neck cancer, helical TomoTherapy treatment times are less than both Smart Arc and step and shoot techniques. In fact, TomoTherapy treatment was fastest of all techniques examined, at 6.6 minutes, compared to 7.5 minutes for Smart Arc and longer times for other intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) techniques, while delivering the best homogeneity and equivalent or better OAR sparing.

Similarly researchers in Austria and Germany compared four different technologies for a parotid gland sparing head and neck treatment technique with simultaneous integrated boost (SIB). Their research showed that the TomoTherapy platform delivered the lowest doses to the parotids and spinal cord and achieved the shortest treatment time — eight minutes versus nine to 24 minutes for the other solutions examined.

Prostate Cancer
Eight studies focused on the use of TomoTherapy technology to treat prostate cancer in more than 280 patients. The studies showed excellent outcome for these patient groups, extending up to more than four years post-treatment. TomoTherapy? treatments resulted in very low toxicities and side effects, even with delivery of escalated doses.

Breast Cancer
In a study of 30 stage III breast cancer patients, researchers at The Ottawa Hospital Regional Cancer Centre in Canada examined early results of loco regional breast radiation using IMRT delivery by the TomoTherapy system. The treatment area included the breast and chest wall, as well as supraclavicular, axillary and internal mammary nodal regions. The TomoTherapy system enabled conformal treatment that limited dosage to healthy surrounding tissue, including the heart, lungs, esophagus and thyroid. Researchers concluded that IMRT with the TomoTherapy system “for loco regional breast radiation is feasible and well tolerated with minimal acute and moderate-late skin effects.”

Lung Cancer
Research done at San Raffaele Scientific Institute was designed to assess the feasibility of the TomoTherapy platform to deliver hypofractionated treatments in 15 patients with inoperable locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). After re-evaluating 12 patients in the study five months post-treatment, 42 percent of the patients had a complete metabolic response and 33 percent a partial response. The study also showed that these patients experienced less toxicity and were able to complete treatment in 13 treatment sessions rather than 20, as is the norm. The study concluded that hypofractionation in radical treatments for locally advanced NSCLC by means of helical TomoTherapy delivery is feasible and shortens the overall treatment time, and that the treatment allows an excellent toxicity profile.

Complex Cases
Highlighting the effectiveness of TomoTherapy radiation therapy in complex cases, a study of TomoTherapy use for one-and-a-half years at Greater Poland Cancer Centre in Poznan, Poland noted, “TomoTherapy is a method by which we can often achieve the treatment impossible to obtain on the conventional linacs or the treatment with a significantly better dose distribution than for conventional linacs.”

The ability of TomoTherapy technology to treat complex cases was also outlined in a number of studies, including:

  • Mesothelioma — This is a disease that is difficult to treat because of the size and complex shape of the tumor, which involves the outer lining of the lungs and internal chest wall. In a study at San Raffaele Scientific Institute, researchers compared two groups of patients treated with the TomoTherapy platform, with one receiving a simultaneous integrated boost (SIB). Those patients receiving the SIB experienced significant benefits, with a one-year survival rate increasing to 72 percent, compared to 43 percent for the other group. Additionally, patients receiving a SIB did not experience a relapse for an average of 16 months versus six months for the non-SIB group.

  • Reirradiation of head and neck tumors — Researchers in Korea investigated the efficacy and toxicity of using the TomoTherapy system to reirradiate head and neck tumors in patients who were inoperable. Nine patients were treated in this study, with median follow up of nine months. Study results showed that there was a treatment response rate of 66.7 percent. Additionally, patients experienced extremely low acute toxicities with only grade 2 skin reactions noted, and no sign of late toxicity.

  • Total Marrow Irradiation (TMI) — Researchers at City of Hope in Los Angeles conducted a dosimetric analysis of 51 patients treated with TMI or total marrow and lymphatic irradiation (TMLI). The results showed that no patient experienced greater than grade 2 toxicity, with half the patients experiencing no nausea, which is a common side effect in other similar treatments. Additionally, researchers noted that dosimetric analysis demonstrated that TMI and TMLI with TomoTherapy technology may have potential advantages over other forms of targeted systemic radiation therapy.

  • Pediatric — Four studies focused on treatment of pediatric patients, with three of those looking at treatments for medulloblastoma. The fourth study recounted the experiences of 62 patients, ranging in age from one to 14, at Grupo Instituto Madrileño de Oncologia (IMO) in Spain, which examined how the TomoTherapy system could be used in young patients to deliver high doses of radiation while preserving healthy organs. The study showed that the TomoTherapy approach allowed manageable levels of toxicity, and was effective in treating the majority of the patients — upon post-treatment evaluation, 58 percent did not have any evidence of illness, 7 percent showed a partial response and another 14 percent remained stable.

To learn more about the TomoTherapy treatment system, visit TomoTherapy at ESTRO 29 in booth 60, September 12-16 in Barcelona.

About TomoTherapy Incorporated
TomoTherapy Incorporated develops, markets and sells advanced radiation therapy solutions that can be used to treat a wide variety of cancers, from the most common to the most complex. The ring gantry-based TomoTherapy® platform combines integrated CT imaging with conformal radiation therapy to deliver sophisticated radiation treatments with speed and precision while reducing radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. TomoTherapy’s suite of solutions include its flagship Hi·Art® treatment system, which has been used to deliver more than three million CT-guided, helical intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) treatment fractions; the TomoHD™ treatment system, designed to enable cancer centers to treat a broader patient population with a single device; and the TomoMobile™ relocatable radiation therapy solution, designed to improve access and availability of state-of-the-art cancer care. TomoTherapy’s stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol TOMO. To learn more about TomoTherapy, please visit TomoTherapy.com.

©2010 TomoTherapy Incorporated. All rights reserved. TomoTherapy, Tomo, TomoDirect, TQA, the TomoTherapy logo and Hi·Art are among trademarks, service marks or registered trademarks of TomoTherapy Incorporated in the United States and other countries.

RapidArc® is a trademark of Varian Medical Systems.

Investor Contact:
Thomas E. Powell
Chief Financial Officer
608.824.2800
Email Contact

Media Contacts:
Kevin O’Malley
Director, Corporate Communications
608.824.3384
Email Contact

Susan Lehman
Rockpoint Public Relations
510.832.6006
Email Contact

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

NVCA Launches Medical Innovation and Competitiveness (MedIC) Coalition

Posted on September 8, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: National Venture Capital Association

Venture Capitalists and Portfolio Companies Join Together to Preserve and Advance U.S. Medical Innovation

WASHINGTON, D.C.–(Marketwire – September 8, 2010) –  The National Venture Capital Association (NVCA) today announced the formation of the Medical Innovation and Competitiveness (MedIC) Coalition, a new alliance comprised of both venture capital firms and their life sciences portfolio companies. The MedIC Coalition will be a united voice in Washington D.C. advocating for policies and regulations that advance U.S. medical innovation and protect the country’s global leadership position in the life sciences industry. The Coalition has three overarching goals:

  • Bring the importance of medical innovation to the forefront as the country implements healthcare reform

  • Establish new and preserve existing incentives for investors and entrepreneurs to develop and commercialize medical innovations in the U.S.

  • Achieve broad-based F.D.A. reform

“Medical innovation is a significant contributor to our national goal of increasing access to healthcare, improving the quality of medical care, and creating high quality jobs. Yet until now, innovation has been largely absent from the public discussion on healthcare reform,” said Beth Seidenberg, MD, chairperson of MedIC and a general partner of Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers. “MedIC will address the rising concern that the U.S. is at risk of losing our leadership position in innovation and job creation due to increasing uncertainty in the regulatory and reimbursement processes, healthcare reform implementation and the capital markets. If we don’t act now our increasingly formidable global competitors will.”

As the United States struggles with these issues, foreign countries are providing incentives for innovators to complete their work overseas, build companies, and access capital markets. MedIC will be highlighting theses challenges and offering concrete regulatory and legislative solutions so that medical breakthroughs can continue to be pursued, high quality jobs created and US global leadership maintained.

“The U.S. healthcare system runs on innovation; if capital and incentives dry up, the whole system will suffer. This scenario could become a reality in the next decade as our current regulatory environment threatens to place our country at a disadvantage to foreign nations that are seeking to create more favorable conditions for innovators and investors,” said Mark Heesen, president, National Venture Capital Association. “In some instances, breakthrough therapies have migrated overseas to take advantage of more innovation friendly environments. MedIC wants the United States to continue to be leaders in discovering, developing and commercializing innovation. The game is ours to lose and we have no intention of losing it.”

“Historically, most of the breakthrough medical innovations in the United States have come from the start-ups and physician inventors,” said Josh Makower, MD, chief executive officer of Exploramed and MedIC steering committee member. “Breakthroughs such as the pacemaker, angioplasty and pulse oximetry were once lab experiments brought to life by entrepreneurs and venture capitalists working together to improve the quality of life for millions. We are now joining forces to ensure that the U.S. regulatory environment allows for the next wave of medical innovations to reach the public market. As a physician, inventor and entrepreneur, I am thrilled to be a part of the MedIC Coalition and look forward to the important work that will be done.”

Membership in MedIC is open to NVCA member firms and their life sciences portfolio companies. Additional information can be found at http://medic.nvca.org

About MedIC

Comprised of National Venture Capital Association member firms and their life sciences portfolio companies, the MedIC coalition advocates for policies and regulations that advance and support U.S. medical innovation. MedIC seeks to 1) educate policymakers on the critical role America’s medical innovation plays in the U.S. healthcare system, 2) establish incentives for investors and entrepreneurs to drive medical innovations in the U.S. and 3) achieve broad based FDA reform so that breakthrough technologies can be brought to market more efficiently. More information on MedIC can be found at medic.nvca.org.

About National Venture Capital Association

The National Venture Capital Association (NVCA) represents approximately 425 venture capital firms in the United States. NVCA’s mission is to foster greater understanding of the importance of venture capital to the U.S. economy and support entrepreneurial activity and innovation. According to a 2009 Global Insight study, venture-backed companies accounted for 12.1 million jobs and $2.9 trillion in revenue in the United States in 2008. The NVCA represents the public policy interests of the venture capital community, strives to maintain high professional standards, provides reliable industry data, sponsors professional development, and facilitates interaction among its members. For more information about the NVCA, please visit www.nvca.org.

Contact:
Channa Brooks
Tenor Communications
202-641-6959
Email Contact

Emily Mendell
NVCA
610-565-3904
Email Contact

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

New Studies Show Improved Clinical Outcomes and Decreased Patient Pain Using Avanca’s RPD(R) Syringe With Ultrasound Versus Regular Syringe With…

Posted on September 8, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Avanca Medical Devices, Inc.

ALBUQUERQUE, NM–(Marketwire – September 8, 2010) –  Medical device company Avanca Medical Devices, Inc. (www.avancamedical.com) continues to prove the superior performance of its one-handed syringe, the RPD® over regular syringes. A recent study using sonographic guidance and the RPD® one-handed syringe, Does Sonographic Needle Guidance Affect the Clinical Outcome of Intra-articular Injections? (J Rheumatol. 2009 Sep; 36(9):1892-902.) demonstrated more beneficial results — much less procedural pain, improved effect of the injected drug, greater responder rate, and reduced non-responder rate — using sonographic needle guidance with the RPD® than using sonographic needle guidance with a conventional syringe. The study showed that the one-handed RPD® (reciprocating procedure device) significantly improves the performance and outcomes of ultrasound-guided injections in a clinically significant manner. Another recent study, A Randomized, Double-blind, Controlled Study of Ultrasound-guided Corticosteroid Injection into the Joint of Patients with Inflammatory Arthritis (Arthritis Rheum. 2010 Jul; 62(7):1862-9), demonstrated no improvement of outcomes of ultrasound-guided intra-articular injections with a conventional syringe. The study addressed whether sonographic needle guidance affected clinical outcomes of intra-articular (IA) joint injections, and determined that there was no benefit from sonographic guidance when performed with a conventional syringe. These two studies emphasize that to take full advantage of sonographic needle guidance to improve patient outcomes, improved control of the syringe device is necessary. Using the one-handed RPD® syringe instead of a conventional syringe with ultrasound is a more effective way to treat patients and justify sonographic needle guidance to 3rd party payers.

Dr. Wilmer L. Sibbitt, Jr., a physician at UNM’s Health Sciences Center (HSC), commented: “With any new device, outcome trials to show a benefit to the patient are always necessary. Outcome trials with the RPD® have demonstrated greater patient safety, much less procedural pain, and better outcomes in syringe procedures, including biopsy and injections of medications for corticosteroids, hyaluronate, local anesthetics, cosmetic agents and neuromuscular drugs. New studies combining the RPD® with ultrasound guidance are ongoing and have great promise to improve the safety and outcomes of medical procedures in all fields of procedural medicine.”

Avanca Medical Devices, Inc. is currently conducting clinical trials on cost-effectiveness using the RPD® to demonstrate that low-cost alterations in IA technique can have a major impact on outcome.

For more information, please contact:

Jackie Aragon
505-243-4600
www.AvancaMedical.com

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Medical Marijuana Inc Spreads Across America With The Hemp Network

Posted on September 8, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Medical Marijuana Inc

FOOTHILL RANCH, CA–(Marketwire – September 8, 2010) –  Medical Marijuana Inc (PINKSHEETS: MJNA) is proud to announce that The Hemp Network multi-level marketing division, (www.thehempnetwork.com) has signed up over 2,200 IHCs, or Independent Hemp Consultants in over 1,000 cities and towns throughout the US and the world. Many of these new IHCs have prepared websites and marketing campaigns in preparation of the product launch in 12 days.

President Don Steinberg stated, “Progress continues rapidly on completion of the back end software and testing of the system.” CEO Bruce Perlowin continued, “We expect to be shipping Nature’s Ancient Wisdom medicinal mushroom and hemp protein formulas before month’s end. Excitement is mounting as our distributors sharpen their marketing tools preparing for a software platform integrating email campaigns, a ‘powerline’ marketing system, blog capabilities and the ability to interface with all social media making this one of the most advanced cutting edge marketing software platforms in the network marketing industry.”

On the international front, Dr. Stuart Titus has traveled to South America where he is conducting clinical studies in Guatemala on The Hemp Network’s proprietary formulas. Dr. Titus will be opening up The Hemp Network distribution channels throughout sectors of Central and South America.

Additionally, ticket sales for our Cannabis and Wellness industry trade show at the colossal Silverdome in Pontiac, Michigan, scheduled for Halloween weekend October 29, 30 and 31st are expected to go on sale this week (See: www.harmonyharvestfest.com). The first International Holistic Health Cannabis Convention Halloween Harmony and Harvest Fest will be the largest event of its kind in the Midwest.

The Hemp Network®’s lead product line, “Nature’s Ancient Wisdom™” is derived from Medicinal Mushrooms combined with hemp protein. These mushrooms have long been esteemed in traditional Chinese medicine. Turkey Tail mushroom, an ingredient in one of our blends, has been the subject of a large number of controlled clinical studies in Asia showing that it can help rebuild the immune system in people with a wide range of cancers. Whole food mushrooms supply the body with an antioxidant enzymatic transport system targeting stress points and improving oxygen to the cells, increasing energy levels and mental clarity.

ABOUT MEDICAL MARIJUANA INC

Medical Marijuana Inc recognizes the vast and unequaled opportunities that exist in the rapidly expanding hemp and medical marijuana industries. The scientific recognition of cannabis has brought legalized marijuana use to the forefront of mainstream discussion, thus opening the door for safe and lucrative investment opportunities.

MEDICAL MARIJUANA INDUSTRY SOLUTIONS

Medical Marijuana Inc has developed a suite of solutions to deliver an efficient and secure infrastructure for the Medical Marijuana Industry which provides the tools to industry operators to effectively manage their business with the confidence that they are in full compliance. Workshops and vender booths covering all aspects of this multi-billion dollar emerging industry are featured at their Expos — the next one scheduled on October 29, 30 and 31st in the Silverdome in Pontiac, Michigan: www.harmonyharvestfest.com

ABOUT THE HEMP NETWORK

The Hemp Network® was established to provide hemp and wellness-related products to a wide marketplace with the use of network marketing to create massive distribution. 

President Don Steinberg and CEO Bruce Perlowin have in the past created one of the world’s largest network marketing companies in the telecommunications industry. They bring that experience plus Dianna Kaplan heading up the products division with a formidable team of advisors and associates that include immunologists, formulators, Doctors, marketing teams, and software engineers.

STAY TUNED

To learn more about The Hemp Network® and to participate in daily conference calls which discuss the pay plan, products, upcoming events and exchange of ideas, call 218-339-3600 PIN: 321677, Monday thru Thursday at 6 PM Pacific time, or listen to the recorded calls 24/7 at: 951-262-3496 or go to: www.thehempnetwork.com.

FORWARD-LOOKING DISCLAIMER

This press release may contain certain forward-looking statements and information, as defined within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and is subject to the Safe Harbor created by those sections. This material contains statements about expected future events and/or financial results that are forward-looking in nature and subject to risks and uncertainties. Such forward-looking statements by definition involve risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Medical Marijuana Inc to be materially different from the statements made herein.

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Virtual Ed Link — SSMS Product Automates NJ State Board of Education and Office of the Attorney General’s Requirements

Posted on September 8, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Virtual Ed Link, Inc.

FAIRFIELD, NJ–(Marketwire – September 8, 2010) –  Virtual Ed Link, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: VRED) — Virtual Ed Link is expanding its efforts into two new areas — Homeland Security and Law and Public Safety. These two New Jersey State Departments are responsible for the safety and well being of students across the state and as such, both organizations have a high interest in the collection of intelligence in local school districts.

The primary purpose of the VRED School Safety Management System (SSMS) product is to collaborate information from the school to the administration, staff, parents and community. Not only is this collected information valuable to the school community, it is also very important to these particular state agencies. Information and statistics regarding firearms, illegal drugs, hate crimes, gang activity, student violence and terroristic threats are all major topics of concern by state authorities.

In New Jersey, all school districts are required by the State Board of Education to adopt and implement policies and procedures consistent with the State Memorandum of Agreement approved by the Attorney General and Commissioner of Education. This memorandum is then signed by each school and municipality statewide.

“The Memorandum of Agreement between the school district and the State’s Attorney General’s Office includes sections on school security planning and training. We are having discussions with officials on utilizing this vehicle for implementation of the SSMS product for school districts,” said John Bay, President and CEO of Virtual Ed Link. “This seems to be a very viable alternative and solution to the tight budget scenarios we are encountering with local school districts.” 

The SSMS solution coordinates information manually and electronically from sources throughout the school district — processing this information into actionable intelligence. This patterning and processing is done through proprietary algorithms designed by VRED, Viyya Technologies (VYON) and other integration partners. The resulting intelligence can then be utilized by the school administration, local authorities and state agencies to prevent security and safety breaches within the school system rather than just reacting to problem after it occurs.

About Virtual Ed Link, Inc.
Virtual Ed Link, Inc.
, (PINKSHEETS: VRED), sells the Safety and Security Management System (SSMS), which uses proprietary core technology solutions developed by Viyya Technologies. The Safety and Security Management System is marketed and sold primarily to schools and colleges around the U.S. and geared to be used as a collaborative Web 2.0 tool to share general information retrieved from any internet source among the school users, and especially, in the event of threats or danger, to disseminate alerts to help and guide students, parents, faculty and law enforcement in the actions necessary to help protect school attendees, and school infrastructure.

For more information, visit http://www.virtualedlink.org

Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: This news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including statements that include the words “believes,” “expects,” “anticipate” or similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the company to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. In addition, description of anyone’s past success, either financial or strategic, is no guarantee of future success. This news release speaks as of the date first set forth above and the company assumes no responsibility to update the information included herein for events occurring after the date hereof.

Contact:
Pam Dominiczak
Investor Relations
Virtual Ed Link, Inc.
Phone: 973-276-0555
[email protected]

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

The Joint Commission to Launch Primary Care Home Option in 2011

Posted on September 8, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Joint Commission

OAKBROOK TERRACE, IL–(Marketwire – September 8, 2010) –  Beginning in July 2011, The Joint Commission will expand the process of accrediting ambulatory health care organizations to those who are also interested in electing the Primary Care Home option. A Primary Care Home is a model of care whereby services are provided to patients by a primary care provider or team that increases access to its services, tracks and coordinates a patient’s care delivered by other providers and facilities, uses evidence based treatment protocols, and focuses more on patient and family education and self-management. This helps to ensure the patient receives timely and appropriate treatment. The Primary Care Home option will help accredited organizations to increase patient satisfaction, improve patient outcomes and reduce the overall costs to the health care system.

This initiative complements the Ambulatory Care Accreditation Program and is consistent with the new health care reform efforts to improve the coordination, quality and efficiency of health care services. This initiative is designed to combine the improvements in quality of care and patient safety achieved through accreditation with increased reimbursement from third party payers when the additional requirements of a Primary Care Home are met.

Standards for the Primary Care Home Initiative will be posted for a field review in November 2010, and pilot testing is expected to begin in early 2011. The final standards are expected to be available in March 2011, and on-site surveys will begin in July 2011.

“This new optional program will help ensure that patients receive ambulatory care services in a manner that is comprehensive, accessible and coordinated. By focusing on carefully orchestrating care, patient outcomes can be improved,” says Michael Kulczycki, executive director, Ambulatory Health Care Accreditation Program, The Joint Commission.

A Primary Care Home Initiative Expert Panel is guiding the development of supplemental ambulatory care accreditation standards for organizations that elect the Primary Care Home option. Specifically, the panel is providing input on topics such as:

  • Roles and responsibilities of the primary care provider;
  • Roles, responsibilities and composition of the care team;
  • Processes necessary to ensure and support continuity of care;
  • Processes to support and incorporate patient self management; and
  • Operational topics such as scheduling of patient appointments to ensure adequate access to care.

A broader advisory and resource group — which includes representatives from national and state organizations and trade associations, along with other interested stakeholders — will provide additional guidance and assistance in the implementation of the initiative. The Joint Commission is also seeking feedback from Medicare and Medicaid officials and insurance companies to ensure that the Primary Care Home standards will enable organizations to be eligible for enhanced reimbursement.

For more information about the Primary Care Home Initiative, please visit www.jointcommission.org/PCHI or contact Michael Kulczycki at 630.792.5290 or [email protected].

Founded in 1951, The Joint Commission seeks to continuously improve health care for the public, in collaboration with other stakeholders, by evaluating health care organizations and inspiring them to excel in providing safe and effective care of the highest quality and value. The Joint Commission evaluates and accredits more than 18,000 health care organizations and programs in the United States, including more than 9,700 hospitals and home care organizations, and more than 6,800 other health care organizations that provide long term care, behavioral health care, laboratory and ambulatory care services. In addition, The Joint Commission also provides certification of more than 1,700 disease-specific care programs, primary stroke centers, and health care staffing services. An independent, not-for-profit organization, The Joint Commission is the nation’s oldest and largest standards-setting and accrediting body in health care. Learn more about The Joint Commission at www.jointcommission.org.

To view this release in a media-rich version, go to: http://www.pwrnewmedia.com/2010/jointcommission_00907_primary_care_home/index.html

Media Contact:
Elizabeth Eaken Zhani
Media Relations Manager
630.792.5914
Email Contact

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Renowned Experts, Drs. Craig Johnson and Ovidio Bermudez, Join Eating Recovery Center Clinical Team

Posted on September 7, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Eating Recovery Center

Appointments Continue to Elevate Denver as National Hub for Eating Disorders Care

DENVER, CO–(Marketwire – September 7, 2010) –  Eating Recovery Center (www.EatingRecoveryCenter.com) today announced that two of the nation’s foremost eating disorders experts have joined its executive team. Craig Johnson, PhD, FAED, CEDS, has been named chief clinical officer of Eating Recovery Center and Ovidio Bermudez, MD, FAAP, FSAM, FAED, CEDS, will become the medical director of Eating Recovery Center’s new child and adolescent treatment program. The appointments of these renowned doctors, known for their scholarship, dedication and clinical expertise, further elevate Denver, Colo., as the nation’s hub for eating disorders treatment.

Eating Recovery Center, a national center for eating disorders recovery providing comprehensive treatment for anorexia and bulimia, currently operates a licensed behavioral hospital for adults with serious eating disorders and an outpatient office, both located in Denver, Colo.

“Eating disorders impact 11 million Americans and remain the deadliest mental illnesses,” said Kenneth L. Weiner, MD, CEDS, founding partner and chief executive officer of Eating Recovery Center. “With the addition of Drs. Johnson and Bermudez, Eating Recovery Center has assembled an internationally renowned team to help patients tackle every level of care from critical inpatient care to outpatient treatment.”

As chief clinical officer, Dr. Johnson will direct Eating Recovery Center’s clinical program development and implementation. He will also drive the Center’s research efforts in conjunction with Emmett R. Bishop, Jr., MD, CEDS, founding partner and medical director of adult services of Eating Recovery Center. A leader in the field of eating disorders treatment since 1979, Dr. Johnson founded and was most recently the director of the Eating Disorders Program at Laureate Psychiatric Hospital in Tulsa, Okla. He is a professor of psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma Medical School and has formerly held faculty appointments at the University of Chicago and Northwestern University Medical Schools. 

Dr. Johnson was the founding editor of the International Journal of Eating Disorders, as well as a founding member of both the Academy of Eating Disorders and the Eating Disorders Research Society. He is also past president of the National Eating Disorders Association. He has authored three books, more than 70 scientific articles, and has been the recipient of several distinguished contribution awards.

“Eating Recovery Center’s ability to quickly adapt treatment innovations has led to the organization becoming a leader in the field of eating disorders. I look forward to working with this distinguished group to further advance the field,” said Dr. Johnson.

Dr. Bermudez, nationally and internationally recognized as an expert in the treatment of adolescents with eating disorders, will apply his expertise to the development of Eating Recovery Center’s new child and adolescent treatment program. Most recently the medical director of Laureate’s Eating Disorders Program, Dr. Bermudez is co-founder of the Eating Disorders Coalition of Tennessee (EDCT), vice-president and co-founder of the Oklahoma Eating Disorders Association (OEDA), as well as past president of the National Eating Disorders Association. He also serves in several leadership positions within the Academy for Eating Disorders.

Dr. Bermudez holds an academic appointment as clinical professor of psychiatry and pediatrics at the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine. He was previously faculty at the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine. Additionally, he is a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist and member of the International Association of Eating Disorders Professionals. Dr. Bermudez has lectured nationally and internationally on eating disorders, childhood obesity and other topics related to adolescent healthcare. He has been widely recognized for his dedication and advocacy on behalf of sufferers and families.

“I am thrilled to join the clinical team at Eating Recovery Center to develop an innovative program focused on the specialized needs of children and adolescents with eating disorders,” said Dr. Bermudez. “Our approach will be sensitive to the developmental needs of each patient and address the medical, behavioral and psycho-social aspects of their eating disorder while working closely with each family — all important components of successful treatment and lasting recovery.”

Denver, Colo., now offers individuals with eating disorders a full spectrum of care overseen by the nation’s leading eating disorders clinicians. Drs. Johnson and Bermudez join Eating Recovery Center founders, Drs. Weiner and Bishop, recognized experts with more than 50 years combined expertise, in providing inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient and outpatient services at Eating Recovery Center’s facilities. A partnership with Denver Health’s A.C.U.T.E. eating disorders program, directed by Philip Mehler, MD, CEDS, an expert in the medical complications of eating disorders, enables Eating Recovery Center to collaboratively provide care for severely medically compromised eating disorders patients.

About Eating Recovery Center
Eating Recovery Center is a national center for eating disorders recovery providing comprehensive treatment for anorexia and bulimia. Denver-based facilities include a licensed behavioral hospital treating adults, an outpatient office and a facility treating children and adolescents scheduled to open in November 2010. Under the personal guidance and care of Drs. Weiner and Bishop, and the newest additions to our leadership team — Drs. Craig Johnson and Ovidio Bermudez, our collaborative programs provide a full spectrum of services for children, adolescents and adults. Our integrated program offers patients from across the country a continuum of care that includes inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient and outpatient services. Our compassionate team of professionals collaborates with treating professionals and loved ones to cultivate lasting behavioral change. For more information please contact us at 877-218-1344 or [email protected] or confidentially chat live on our website at www.EatingRecoveryCenter.com.

Contact:
Shannon Fern
CSG|PR
303-433-7020
Email Contact

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Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

CONMED Corporation Will Participate in Upcoming Investor Conferences

Posted on September 7, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: CONMED Corporation

UTICA, NY–(Marketwire – September 7, 2010) –  CONMED Corporation (NASDAQ: CNMD), a medical technology company specializing in medical devices for surgical and patient monitoring markets, announced today that the Company will participate in three investor conferences during the second week of September 2010 as follows:

  • Morgan Stanley Global Healthcare Conference on September 14, 2010 at 3:20 PM Eastern, in New York City

  • CL King Best Ideas Conference on September 15, 2010 at 2:45 PM Eastern, in New York City

  • Stifel Nicolaus Healthcare Conference 2010 on September 16, 2010 at 2:40 PM Eastern, in Boston

Mr. Joseph J. Corasanti, President and CEO of CONMED, will discuss the Company’s business. The live webcasts of CONMED’s presentations will be available at www.conmed.com in the Investor Relations – Events Calendar section of the website and will be available for replay through September 24, 2010.

CONMED Profile

CONMED is a medical technology company with an emphasis on surgical devices and equipment for minimally invasive procedures and patient monitoring. The Company’s products serve the clinical areas of sports medicine-arthroscopy, powered surgical instruments, electrosurgery, cardiac monitoring disposables, endosurgery and endoscopic technologies. Surgeons and physicians in a variety of specialties including orthopedics, general surgery, gynecology, neurosurgery, and gastroenterology use the Company’s medical devices. Headquartered in Utica, New York, the Company’s 3,300 employees distribute its products worldwide from several manufacturing locations.

Forward Looking Information

Certain statements made in the presentations may constitute forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and relate to the Company’s performance on a going-forward basis. They will be based upon management’s expectations and involve risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results, performance or trends, to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements therein or in previous disclosures. The Company believes that all forward-looking statements made by it have a reasonable basis, but there can be no assurance that management’s expectations, beliefs or projections as expressed in the forward-looking statements will actually occur or prove to be correct. In addition to general industry and economic conditions, factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: (i) the failure of any one or more of management’s assumptions to prove to be correct; (ii) the risks relating to forward-looking statements discussed in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009 and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q; (iii) cyclical purchasing patterns from customers, end-users and dealers; (iv) timely release of new products, and acceptance of such new products by the market; (v) the introduction of new products by competitors and other competitive responses; (vi) the possibility that any new acquisition (and its integration) or other transaction may require the Company to reconsider its financial assumptions and goals/targets; (vii) increasing costs for raw material, transportation, or litigation; and/or (viii) the Company’s ability to devise and execute strategies to respond to market conditions.

CONTACT:
CONMED Corporation
Robert Shallish
Chief Financial Officer
315-624-3206

FD
Investors:
Brian Ritchie
212-850-5600

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Maine’s Mayo Regional Hospital Selects Sage Intergy EHR

Posted on September 7, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Sage

Adding EHR to the Hospital System Will Help Physicians Provide Better Healthcare, Outcomes

TAMPA, FL–(Marketwire – September 7, 2010) – Sage North America Healthcare Division, which provides electronic health records (EHR) and practice management software and services to approximately 80,000 physicians in North America, today announced that Mayo Regional Hospital, based in Dover-Foxcroft, ME, has selected Sage Intergy EHR for the hospital’s medical practices. 

The 25-bed critical access non-profit hospital owns and operates eight physician practices. Mayo Regional Hospital selected Sage Intergy EHR following a two-year evaluation process of EHR systems in the marketplace. Sage Intergy could easily handle the hospital’s billing requirements, along with the system’s robust practice management needs, said Ben Dever, Director of Mayo Practices Associates for the Mayo Regional Hospital.

“The uniqueness of our billing system and its complexities placed Sage Intergy at the top of our vendor list,” said Dever. “In our search for an EHR, we needed a system that could handle a robust, multi-practice billing system while providing clear reporting metrics and outcomes. Intergy proved the most capable system to meet our needs.”

Sage Intergy EHR is a comprehensive clinical, financial and administrative solution that empowers physicians to advance the quality and efficiency of care they deliver. The Sage Intergy family of products includes integrated practice management, electronic health records, clinical and business intelligence and tools for online patient engagement. Providers can access Sage Intergy from multiple practice locations, from home, or other remote locations either through a central patient database server, or as a Sage-hosted solution on a monthly subscription basis. 

Sage Intergy EHR easily tracks the details of a patient’s clinical history, shares and manages clinical information and combines complex medical practice functions into easy-to-navigate menus. Sage Intergy EHR features centralized financial operations including billing, reporting, task management, and fully integrates with EDI services, Sage Intergy Practice Portal, Sage Intergy RIS and Sage Practice Analytics.

Dever said Mayo Regional Hospital is working to attain meaningful use, as driven by the federal government’s recent passing of a healthcare stimulus package. Sage Intergy EHR will provide the hospital’s practices with reporting and data collection capabilities as required by the meaningful use rules.

The clinics of Mayo Regional Hospital see more than 50,000 patients a year, and, while cost containment of moving from a paper to electronic system appealed to the hospital’s selection committee, adding Sage Intergy EHR to its healthcare system is driven by providing better quality of care, and tracking outcomes to improve treatment and care options for patients, Dever said.

“We’ll now be more easily able to track patients’ progress through their electronic records, and share patient data between the hospital and its clinics,” said Dever. “This will lead to quicker delivery of care and better, higher quality, encounters with our patients.”

Sage has been providing ambulatory healthcare systems for nearly 30 years, providing practice management solutions, electronic health records and other services to streamline patient care, as well as is a leading supplier of business management software and services, serving more than 6.2 million small and midsized business customers worldwide. 

View Sage Healthcare Division YouTube interviews.
View Sage Healthcare Division information.

About Mayo Regional Hospital
Mayo Regional Hospital is a non-profit, 25-bed critical access hospital located in Dover-Foxcroft, the county seat of Piscataquis County. Mayo Regional opened in 1978 and is governed by Hospital Administrative District 4, which was established by 12 towns to serve the healthcare needs of residents in a three-county area of rural central Maine. Mayo Hospital has 22 physicians and 375 staff members dedicated to providing acute medical/surgical care, intensive care, surgical services and obstetrics in an inpatient setting, as well as a wide array of outpatient services. Mayo Practice Associates, a department of the hospital, owns and operates eight physician practices in Corinna, Dexter, Dover-Foxcroft, Guilford and Milo.

About Sage North America
 
Sage North America is part of The Sage Group plc, a leading global supplier of business management software and services. Sage North America employs 4,000 people and supports 3.1 million small and midsized business customers including approximately 80,000 physicians. The Sage Group plc, formed in 1981, was floated on the London Stock Exchange in 1989 and now employs 13,100 people and supports 6.2 million customers worldwide. For more information, please visit the website at www.sagenorthamerica.com.

© 2010 Sage Software, Inc. All rights reserved. Sage, Sage Software, Sage logos and the Sage product and service names mentioned herein are registered trademarks or trademarks of Sage Software, Inc. or its affiliated entities. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Press Contact:
Scott Rupp
Sage
(813) 249-4264
[email protected]

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Banyan Corporation’s "America’s Dentist" Division Enters Agreement With Nationally Renowned Dental Consultant for Dental Group Development

Posted on September 7, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Banyan Corporation

BOCA RATON, FL–(Marketwire – September 7, 2010) –  Banyan Corporation (PINKSHEETS: BNYN) announced that it has reached an agreement with Mark Eric Bailey to partner with it in the development of its America’s Dentist concept. When operational, America’s Dentist will offer a vast array of services to dental practices nationwide, including marketing; real estate/leasing support; practice management and analysis; finance; branding; practice purchase and sale representation and practice transitions.

Mark Eric Bailey has served general & specialty dentists nationwide regarding practice finance & advice at Capital4HealthCare, LLC. In 2005, he founded Dentcetera Dental Practice Advisors, LLC which provides advice, analysis and buyers representation for general & specialty dentists and in 2007 he co-founded edentalspace.com, the first global social networking site exclusively for dental professionals. Mr. Bailey has completed 463 dental practice transitions in his career. Dentcetera services will be rebranded Americas Dentist and will feature buyer’s representation or traditional practice brokerage services.

Mr. Bailey stated, “I am excited by this opportunity to participate with Banyan Corporation in the development of America’s Dentist. In today’s economy, it is more important than ever before for a dental practice to operate at its optimum, not just clinically but as a business. At America’s Dentist we will feature state-of-the-art practice management software to analyze the present business performance of a practice, and our consulting team will be able to quickly assess and recommend decisions to immediately increase a practice’s performance. Whether our services lead to the dentist’s long-term improved practice performance or help the dentist enhance practice performance in preparation for merger or acquisition, America’s Dentist services will be invaluable.”

The multi-billion dollar dental industry is the most organized of healthcare professions. Banyan Corporation believes it can leverage of the significant experience of both Mr. Bailey and its past ventures to move successfully into the dental arena.

About Banyan Corporation:

Banyan Corporation is a publicly traded holding company focused on investing in and building a network of operating subsidiaries engaged in various innovative businesses. Currently the company’s subsidiaries, Premier Medical Group, Inc. and affiliated companies, provide diagnostic testing services to physicians nationwide.

This Press Release contains or incorporates by reference forward looking statements including certain information with respect to plans and strategies of Banyan Corporation. For this purpose, any statements contained herein or incorporated herein by references that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed forward looking statements. Without limiting the foregoing, the words “believes,” “suggests,” “anticipates,” “plans,” “expects,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward looking statements. There are a number of events or actual results of Banyan Corporation operations that could differ materially from those indicated by such forward looking statements.

Contact:
Investor Relations
Michael Gelmon
1-310-909-4607
www.PMGtesting.com

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

In the Fight to Combat Lethal Infections and Improve Patient Satisfaction, Hospitals Pick Healthy Measures

Posted on September 7, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Network Services

SCHAUMBURG, IL–(Marketwire – September 7, 2010) –  Network Services Company, an international organization of health care and janitorial supply distributors, recently announced the launch of Healthy Measures™, a three-step consulting program to aid hospitals in the prevention of health care acquired infections (HAIs) while increasing patient satisfaction scores.

Partnering with health care facilities to assess their current conditions and cleaning practices, Healthy Measures (www.HealthyMeasuresOnline.com) is helping hospitals meet the standards and guidelines for housekeeping and hand hygiene recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee (HICPAC).

“Infections pose an extreme risk to patients during a hospital stay, especially if the patient is already in a vulnerable condition,” said Kevin Rudd, Network Services’ chief marketing officer. “We’ve designed Healthy Measures to be an industry-leading solution that enables hospitals to reduce infection rates, thereby safeguarding patients and improving overall patient satisfaction.”

The CDC estimates there are approximately 100,000 deaths suffered annually in the U.S. stemming from an estimated two million preventable HAIs. Some of the pathogens that result in HAIs, which have been found to be readily transmitted from environmental surfaces to health care workers’ hands and to patients, include C. difficile (Clostridium difficile), methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), acinetobacter, norovirus and vancomycin-resistant enterococcus (VRE). But implementation of a hand hygiene and surface sanitation program like Healthy Measures can result in dramatically lower rates of infection.

The Healthy Measures program is a three-step process comprised of:

  • Interviews with key personnel to gain an understanding of the facility’s current culture and challenges related to infection prevention;
  • Facility assessment focusing on patient, public and staff areas to gain an understanding of current processes and procedures, and products used;
  • Implementation of a comprehensive and customized joint-action plan related to hand hygiene and surface sanitation.

“The Healthy Measures Program provides a second pair of eyes when evaluating a facility and emphasizes collaboration by working closely with hospital staff to arrive at a solution,” said Rudd. “As part of the comprehensive solution, we provide checklists, educational and training materials, customizable signage, monthly tips, association guidelines, hospital rating websites and access to extensive research.”

Research indicates HAIs have become a financial risk to both individual health care facilities and the nation’s health care industry. The average cost of one HAI to a hospital is $14,000, while the average cost to the U.S. health care industry is between $4.5 and $5.7 billion annually (Source: Stone, et al. American Journal of Infection Control 2002; 30:145-52).

“Disinfection of the hospital environment and patient care equipment are essential strategies to prevent the spread of HAIs,” said Blake Kite, director of environmental services at Banner Estrella Medical Center. “One of the biggest things that impressed me about Healthy Measures was that we could decide upon our own action plan. We felt included in the process and part of the solution.”

About Network Services Company
Schaumburg, Ill.-based Network Services Company is a member-owned distribution network of more than 75 member-distributors with combined annual revenue of more than $12 billion. Members include distributors of janitorial supplies and equipment, as well as foodservice disposables and industrial packaging supplies and equipment. For more information about Network Services, please visit www.nsconline.com.

Media Contact:
Chris Lucy
Network Services Company
224-361-2243
Email Contact

Mary Garrick
SBC Advertising
614-255-2861
Email Contact

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Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Compulink Business Systems, Inc. Underwrites Grant for Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology

Posted on September 7, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Compulink Business Systems, Inc.

Grant to Develop Online Courses on Electronic Health Records to Ophthalmology Society Members

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CA–(Marketwire – September 7, 2010) – Compulink Business Systems, Inc., the industry leader in fully customizable electronic health records (EHR) and practice management solutions, announced today it is providing an unrestricted educational grant to the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO®) to develop online courses on EHR for ophthalmic medical personnel.

The online course series allows users to train at their convenience and pace with e-learning technology that transcends the traditional classroom environment and demonstrate their EHR knowledge and performance to qualify for certification. The course is open to two key groups of ophthalmic caregivers: ophthalmologists and ophthalmic allied health personnel, who assist the ophthalmologist in aspects of patient care. In addition, with the comprehensive online course content proposed, the e-learning will be of great interest to the entire eye care team: clinic managers, front office personnel, ophthalmic photographers, ophthalmic nurses, and other members of the eye care team.

“With this significant grant to JCAHPO, Compulink demonstrates its commitment to the ophthalmic community through actions as well as words,” said Link Wilson, President and CEO, Compulink. “We believe it’s critical to help all members of the eye care team learn how to implement, customize and utilize EHR solutions, understand meaningful use and, ultimately, deliver better patient care through the widespread adoption of electronic records.”

The training modules, which are broken into (1) education and training and (2) testing components, encompass the following content categories:

  • Electronic Health Records
  • Patient Management and Scheduling
  • Insurance and Billing
  • Financial Management
  • Ambulatory Surgical Center
  • Systems

Module content also includes such topics as: chart documentation and coding; history and examination; e-Prescribing; disease management; lab orders and results reporting; PQRI data verification; images; patient scheduling and contact management; insurance claims; Medicare; billing and coding; scribing; financial reports; ASCs; and security.

The Compulink grant supports training content and multimedia development, psychometric services for valid assessment, CME and CE applications, pilot testing and project administration expenses.

“EHR is a very important area for training the eye care team in today’s health care environment,” stated William Ehlers, MD, JCAHPO President. “With the government requirements and incentives for transitioning to EHR, it is imperative that all members of the eye care team build their EHR competencies.” 

The JCAHPO is a non-profit organization dedicated to the quality and availability of ophthalmic patient care by promoting the value of qualified allied health personnel and by providing certification and education. 

The program is expected to launch at the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) in Chicago, October 16-19, and will be administered at www.actioned.org, the online training site of the JCAHPO.

About Compulink
With more than 15 years experience in EHR implementation planning, management and technology, Compulink’s fully customizable CCHIT Certified EHR features clinical documentation, exam templates, fully integrated e-Prescribing, and PQRI automation. Backed by an exclusive EHR Success Guarantee and ARRA Certification Guarantee, Compulink also offers unparalleled financing options with its two-year deferred payment plan. For more information, contact Compulink at: [email protected] or 800.456.4522, or visit us at www.compulinkadvantage.com.

About JCAHPO
The Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO®) was established as a not-for-profit organization in 1969 to offer certification and continuing education opportunities to ophthalmic allied health personnel. Since then, more than 25,000 people in the U.S., Canada, and around the world have earned JCAHPO certification. For more information, visit: http://www.jcahpo.org/.

Contact:
Rosemary Valenta
Pascale Communications, LLC
p. 917.701.3246
e. Email Contact

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Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Lunera Lighting Now Listed on GSA Schedule

Posted on September 7, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Lunera Lighting

Federal Customers Can Now Easily Purchase Lunera LED Lighting Fixtures

REDWOOD CITY, CA–(Marketwire – September 7, 2010) – Lunera Lighting, Inc., a Silicon Valley company that designs, manufactures, and markets next-generation LED lighting, is pleased to announce that its award winning, energy efficient LED fixtures are now available for purchase on the General Services Administration (GSA) Schedule. New to the Lunera® team, Harpreet Walia, head of Government Affairs, will be leading the company’s government sales efforts.

The GSA Schedule program provides access to over 11 million commercial products and services at volume discount pricing. To qualify for the GSA Schedule program, all approved vendor products must be compliant with the commercial environment intended.

“We believe in creating sustainable, high quality, digital lighting through a combination of innovative fixture design and state-of-the-art technology. We are delighted that our products were approved on the first round to be included on the GSA schedule. Our commercial LED lighting products enable government agencies to progress towards energy efficient lighting for improved building performance and a more productive work environment,” stated Michael Lesyna, CEO of Lunera Lighting.

Advantages of purchases made through the GSA Schedule:

  • Administrative work reduction
  • Reduced purchase cycle
  • Ease of use
  • Procurement control

Lunera products can be purchased and ordered directly by federal customers through the GSA Advantage!® online shopping and ordering system. Products can also be purchased and ordered through Lunera directly. Lunera’s inclusion on the GSA Schedule is enabled through an agreement with Fedlight Supply and can be found through schedule number GS07F-7118B on SIN:206-4.

Lunera’s energy efficient LED fixtures are compliant with the Buy American provisions (Section 1605) of the American Reconstruction and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) and the Buy American Act. Lunera’s fixtures are produced and assembled in California and are designed for ARRA-funded public works projects that advance energy efficiency in new construction and building retrofits.

The company is committed to creating products that produce high quality light, following sustainable green building practices, and striving for the greatest level of customer satisfaction. Lunera fixtures help buildings acquire LEED certification, while providing quantifiable energy and maintenance savings leading to a strong return on investment in LED lighting.

Promises Kept vs. Promises Made
The lighting industry is undergoing a disruptive change in technology for the first time in over 100 years. Analysts predict that LED lighting will become the predominant light source within a few years.

Commercial building owners are open to change based on the promise of digital LED technologys: dramatic energy and maintenance savings; reduced environmental impact; and on Lunera’s promise of delivering these benefits while improving the quality of light and fixture design to enhance the space for a building’s occupants. Obtaining accurate information about LED lighting is key to making an educated product choice.

Lunera is committed to providing comprehensive information on LED technology, its environmental benefits plus maintenance and energy savings to help potential customers make an informed purchase decision. Corporate customers interested in making the switch to commercial LED lighting should visit Lunera’s website for more information.

About Lunera Lighting
Lunera Lighting is an award-winning technology innovator leading the transformation from analog to energy-efficient LED lighting. Manufactured in the USA, Lunera’s premium lighting fixtures are particularly attractive when seeking LEED certification, since LED lighting substantially impacts LEED points in “green” buildings. The company is also a firm believer in social and environmental responsibility and has made it part of their corporate philosophy. Visit http://www.lunera.com for more information or contact Lunera at 650-241-3875 or by email at [email protected].

Contact:
Carol Warren
Antarra Communications
Tel. 714-890-4500
Email Contact

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Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Banner Health Cardon Children’s Medical Center and GetWellNetwork Collaborate to Tackle Pediatric Asthma Care

Posted on September 3, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: GetWellNetwork

New GetWell Town Asthma Care Plan Prepares Patients and Families to Better Manage Condition at Home and Reduce Hospital Readmissions

BETHESDA, MD–(Marketwire – September 3, 2010) – GetWellNetwork, Inc. today introduced a new pediatric Asthma Care Plan for children’s hospitals, available now through GetWell Town™. The Asthma Care Plan helps improve patient outcomes by engaging patients and their families by teaching them to successfully manage the disease at home, leading to fewer hospital stays and emergency department visits. The GetWell Town Asthma Care Plan is immediately available. 

Pediatric asthma is the most common chronic condition among children under 18, affecting more than 6 million children according to the American Lung Association. It has costly effects for both parents and children, costing nearly $719 million in parents’ loss of productivity and asthma related school absences(1). At the same time, it is a condition that can be managed successfully with proper education and care plan. 

“We are truly excited about launching the GetWell Town Asthma Care Plan. The Asthma Care Plan enables care providers to easily involve children and families in a comprehensive educational program that will be instrumental in preparing them to effectively manage their condition at home,” said Sandra Marken, director of nursing pediatrics, Cardon Children’s Medical Center. “We believe that actively engaging children and families in this care plan will result in a decrease of readmissions within 30 days post discharge.”

The new GetWell Town Asthma Care Plan engages parents and children starting at day of admission. It leverages award-winning asthma education videos from KidsHealth® to educate patients on key concepts that prepare them for managing their condition at home. The Asthma Care Plan introduces information about the disease in four phases:

  • Phase One: Patients are introduced to the basics of asthma and begin their in-patient education curriculum.
  • Phase Two: Children learn about medications and tools that help manage their condition, and the common triggers to avoid such as second-hand smoke.
  • Phase Three: Patients and families are instructed on how to create a safe home environment and taught self-monitoring techniques to recognize signs and symptoms of potential flare-ups; their Care Team also checks-in to monitor their progress through the Asthma Care Plan.
  • Phase Four: Patients learn about the take-home Asthma Management Plan and the importance of completing a plan of action before discharge. Patients and family members can also repeat any of the four phases and contact staff members for assistance throughout the learning process.

“The interactive Asthma Care Plan truly allows hospital staff to incorporate condition-specific education throughout the entire care process. By allowing patients and families to progress through the educational plan on their own, they are likely to receive important information at the right time in their hospital stay to better understand their condition and how to manage it,” said Dr. Neil Izenberg, founder and editor-in-chief of KidsHealth. “We are excited that the comprehensiveness of the KidsHealth Asthma Care Suite fits so well into the GetWell Town Asthma Care Plan to create a standardized care plan for young asthma patients.”

“We are honored to work with our GetWellNetwork Children’s Hospital partners and KidsHealth to proactively engage patients and families in managing this condition post hospitalization,” said Shannon O’Neil, director, pediatric product line, GetWellNetwork, Inc. “Further we are confident that young patients who successfully complete the GetWell Town Asthma Care Plan will be better prepared to enjoy active participation in home and school activities.”

About KidsHealth®

KidsHealth creates engaging online, print, and video media about a wide range of health and family issues in English and Spanish. KidsHealth licenses online content, which can be private-labeled and displayed on a licensee’s website. KidsHealth has a physician-directed, professional editorial staff — and is the largest resource of online children’s health, behavioral, and developmental information written for three distinct audiences: parents, kids, and teens. KidsHealth also creates KidsHealth in the Classroom, a free website for educators featuring standards-based health curricula, activities, handouts, and more. KidsHealth is part of Nemours, one of the nation’s largest nonprofit pediatric health systems. For more information about KidsHealth, please visit www.kidshealth.org/mktg/intro/.

About GetWell Town
GetWell Town was developed in collaboration with GetWellNetwork’s National Children’s Hospital Task Force, comprised of 15 pediatric facilities across the U.S. as well as direct input from pediatric patients and their families. GetWell Town is designed to complement the kid-friendly spaces that children’s hospitals have worked hard to create and features exclusive content in partnership with KidsHealth®, part of The Nemours Foundation’s Center for Children’s Health Media.

About GetWellNetwork
GetWellNetwork, Inc. uses the bedside TV to entertain, educate and empower hospital patients and caregivers to be more actively engaged in their care. This patient-centered approach improves both satisfaction and outcomes for patients and hospitals. GetWellNetwork is the leader in interactive patient care solutions and exclusively endorsed by the American Hospital Association. More information about GetWellNetwork can be found at www.GetWellNetwork.com.

(1) Wang LY, Zhong Y, Wheeler L. “Direct and Indirect Costs of Asthma in School-Age Children.” Preventing Chronic Disease, 2(1): [serial online], January 2005.

Media Contact:
Jenny Song
(703) 338-8434
Email Contact

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Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Ireland’s Life and Fitness Magazine Profiles Simulated Environment Concepts’ Flagship

Posted on September 3, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Simulated Environment Concepts

The Spa Capsule Growing More Popular in Total Health & Fitness Circles Throughout Europe

MIAMI, FL–(Marketwire – September 3, 2010) –  Simulated Environment Concepts, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: SMEV), makers of the high pressurized dry water massage and wellness equipment, SpaCapsule, announced today that hot on the heels of the twelve capsule deal with UK-based Aspire Consulting, the SpaCapsule has once again made a splash in international press, courtesy of Ireland’s Life and Fitness Magazine.

Dr. Ella Frenkel, CEO and President of Simulated Environment Concepts, Inc. (SE Concepts), said, “Publicity comes naturally to us. Because of the innovation of our Spa Capsule, we have been featured in numerous TV and print venues — ABC’s Good Morning America, CBS’s Doctors Show, NBC’s Today Show, Rob Report and the New York Times, to name a few. However, it is always a great feeling when you see an unsolicited article about us; especially in a prominent magazine such as Life and Fitness Magazine Ireland.”

Freely distributed nationwide to selected gyms and leisure centers, Life and Fitness Magazine Ireland is one of the country’s leading Health & Fitness Publications covering such topics as weight loss, health, nutrition, wellness, sport and travel.

The featured article, “The Spa Capsule Has Arrived In Ireland” (September 1, 2010), continues to demonstrate the significance of the SpaCapsule and its place in not just the therapeutic markets, but in health and fitness overall. Named “the ultimate wellbeing experience” by Life and Fitness Magazine Ireland, the article continued on to state, “this is an excellent opportunity for those in the wellbeing, massage and sport therapy fields to add to their client offering.”

With distribution deals like that of Aspire Consulting for Vibralife and Zen & O for Lady Fitness, SE Concepts intends to carry on with its expansion into the health and wellness markets, while continuing to cultivate corporate, leisure and therapeutic markets worldwide.

About Simulated Environment Concepts, Inc.

Simulated Environment Concepts, Inc. is the developer of a variety of products for wellness, relaxation, weight loss, and rehabilitation. Our aqua massage and hydromassage products are used by Doctors, Gyms, Spas, retail locations, offices, residential and many other venues. Incorporating oxygen, aromatherapy, massage, and even music or video from an iPod or an iPhone, our products deliver consistent results and excellent earning potential for businesses. For more information on Simulated Environment Concepts and its flagship product, SpaCapsule®, PTjetCapsule™, and Celude Laboratories™ products you can visit the company’s product website at www.spacapsule.com, the corporate website at www.seccorporation.com, or request more information via email at [email protected], or call at (888) 757-0797 or (305) 651-9200.

Safe Harbor

Statements in this news release that are not historical facts, including statements about plans and expectations regarding products and opportunities, demand and acceptance of new or existing products, capital resources and future financial results are forward-looking. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties which may cause the Company’s actual results in future periods to differ materially from those expressed. These uncertainties and risks include changing consumer preferences, lack of success of new products, loss of the Company’s customers, competition and other factors discussed from time to time in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

SpaCapsule is registered trademark of Simulated Environment Concepts, Inc.

For further information, contact:
Simulated Environment Concepts
Investor Relations Department
(888) 757-0797

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Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

American Physicians Service Group, Inc. Announces Early Redemption of All Preferred Stock

Posted on September 3, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: American Physicians Service Group, Inc.

AUSTIN, TX–(Marketwire – September 3, 2010) –  American Physicians Service Group, Inc. (“APS”) (NASDAQ: AMPH) today announced that its Board of Directors had authorized the early redemption of all of APS’ 3% Series A redeemable preferred stock, valued at approximately $6 million, and payment of accrued dividends on the preferred stock through the redemption date.

Mr. Ken Shifrin, Chairman of the Board, said, “This stock was issued in 2007 in payment of refundable surplus deposits provided by our insured doctors three decades ago when our forerunner, American Physicians Insurance Exchange (“APIE”), came into existence. It is very gratifying to satisfy this obligation to those early pioneers who were believers in the doctor-owned insurance concept.”

These distributions will be made on September 24, 2010 to shareholders of record on September 3, 2010.

APS is an insurance services firm with subsidiaries and affiliates which provide medical malpractice insurance and related services for physicians and other healthcare providers. APS is headquartered in Austin, Texas.

This press release includes forward-looking statements related to APS that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. These forward-looking statements are made in reliance on the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. For further information about these factors that could affect the future results of APS, please see the recent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Prospective investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results may differ materially from management expectations. Copies of the filings are available upon request to APS.

For further information, please visit the website of APS at www.amph.com or contact the following:
Mr. Kenneth Shifrin
Chairman of the Board (or)
Mr. Tim LaFrey
President (or)
Mr. Marc Zimmermann
Chief Financial Officer
American Physicians Service Group, Inc.
1301 S. Capital of Texas Highway, Suite C-300
Austin, Texas 78746
(512) 328-0888

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Virtual Pharma Rep(TM) Partners With digitalDVM(TM) to Launch virtualVetRep(TM) for the Animal Health Industry

Posted on September 2, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Virtual Pharma Rep

Virtual Pharma RepTM E-Detailing Platform Brings a New Virtual Sales Approach to the Animal Health Industry

OAK BROOK, IL–(Marketwire – September 2, 2010) –  Virtual Pharma Rep™, a leader in e-detailing marketing strategies, announced today that the company has entered into an agreement to provide their patent-pending e-detailing platform for use as the foundation for a new progressive communication program, in partnership with digitalDVM™, a sales and marketing solutions provider for the animal health industry.

Virtual Pharma Rep™ facilitates a paradigm shift in the traditional sales process, and revolutionizes expensive sales models with a fresh, value-added approach that supplements existing field reps and provides a new voice in the sales process. The partnership between Virtual Pharma Rep™ and digitalDVM™ brings together key components that supplement and enhance existing sales and marketing strategies for the animal health industry. Timely, relevant product and support information will be provided to busy veterinarians in an appealing format that meets the needs of the growing number of practices who prefer online resources that can be accessed at their convenience. 

“Virtual Pharma Rep™ has had significant success in the pharmaceutical industry,” said Jim Rediehs, CEO of Virtual Pharma Rep™. “The versatility of our e-detailing platform allows us to branch into new markets like Animal Health. It shares many similarities with the pharmaceutical market, and VPR provides a tool we know will prove useful for sales reps and veterinarians to maximize time, enhance education and therefore better serve their clients within the animal health industry.”

“More than 80% of physicians participate in e-detailing from pharmaceutical companies, and with the explosive growth of internet use among veterinary professionals, now is the time to make this service available to those in the animal health industry,” said Daryl Schraad, president of digitalDVM™. “virtualVetRep™ complements existing sales and marketing efforts by adding increased voice to top veterinary targets, and provides a cost-effective alternative to increasing field representatives in remote geographical regions.”

digitalDVM™’s virtualVetRep™ offers customized one-on-one virtual sales calls that include streaming video messages, live chat and sample or literature requests. In addition, the service connects veterinarians directly with their field sales representative, which helps optimize field sales call cycles and clinic staff’s time.

The virtualVetRep™ service is available to animal health product manufacturers and distributors worldwide.

About Virtual Pharma Rep™

Virtual Pharma Rep™ is revolutionizing the pharmaceutical industry by leading the paradigm shift to virtual sales support and service models that enhance or replace existing and expensive pharmaceutical marketing strategies. Led by a team that is highly experienced in the creation of future sales and growth strategies in pharmaceuticals, Virtual Pharma Rep™‘s patent pending sales platform shares a cost reduction within the pharmaceutical industry by streamlining existing sales and marketing strategies. In addition, thanks to VPR’s disease awareness, management and compliance processes, VPR assists with overall long-term healthcare cost reductions in the form of fewer doctor’s office visits and hospitalizations. For more information please visit www.virtualpharmarep.com.

About digitalDVM™
With a growing portfolio of advanced technology and innovative marketing platforms, digitalDVM™ enables animal health companies to gain more effective, immediate access to progressive veterinarians. Best-in-class capabilities include virtualVetRep™, an exclusive e-detailing platform for product and service information, groupDVM™ ecommerce solutions, and virtualRepCoach™, the digital alternative for sales representative training and development. Based in Denver with a worldwide clientele, the company works directly with product manufacturers and distributors throughout the animal health industry. More information is available at www.digitaldvm.com.

Media Contact:
Ann Norman
+1-310-927-5158
Email Contact

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

MedLink Announces Partnership With Healthcare Information Technology Provider Thrasys, Inc.

Posted on September 2, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: MedLink International, Inc.

NEW YORK, NY–(Marketwire – September 2, 2010) –  MedLink (OTCBB: MLKNA), a leading provider of Electronic Health Records and practice management solutions, today announced a partnership with Thrasys, Inc. a provider of next-generation health information technology and solutions. MedLink and Thrasys have collaborated to provide interoperability and health record management based on SyntraNet from Thrasys, a cloud based Health Information Exchange (HIE) and Collaboration Network. SyntraNet enables more efficient and coordinated care across healthcare communities.

“The Agreement with Thrasys strengthens MedLink’s ongoing RHIO community strategy and represents a key milestone in MedLink’s delivery of high-value healthcare solutions on an enterprise level,” said Ray Vuono, President of MedLink. “SyntraNet is a cloud based Health Information Exchange that can be deployed quickly across the service area of RHIOs, providing incredible value as the community scrambles to provide a financially sensible and scalable interoperable solution to meet the ‘meaningful use’ stipulations necessary to receive federal financial incentives to its member physician and healthcare organizations.”

MedLink and Thrasys will market the cloud based HIE platform to Regional Health Information Organizations and Large Hospital groups as a solution for interoperability, and to provide cloud based applications that leverage both MedLink and Thrasys technologies to streamline wide spread EHR adoption.

About Thrasys, Inc.

Thrasys, Inc. based in San Francisco, California brings innovative solutions to the healthcare market based on breakthrough technologies to rapidly build and deploy highly scalable applications targeted at communities and enterprises. Thrasys solutions for healthcare are based on XNet, an open and standards based application platform to rapidly build and deploy enterprise solutions based on XML services, rich internet application user interfaces, configurable workflows and rules, and interoperability. SyntraNet, based on XNet, is a health information exchange and collaboration network that provides a comprehensive set of applications for care providers, patients, service centers and payers. Please visit www.thrasys.com to learn more.

About MedLink

MedLink is a healthcare IT company that provides the medical community with products and services designed to help create, manage, and share medical information. The company’s flagship product, MedLink TotalOffice EHR 3.1, a CCHIT Certified® 08 Ambulatory EHR, provides physicians with full EHR and practice management functionality. For more information regarding MedLink’s products and services, please visit www.medlinkus.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

This news release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Statements regarding future events, developments, the Company’s future performance, as well as management’s expectations, beliefs, intentions, plans, estimates or projections relating to the future are forward-looking statements within the meaning of these laws. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, outlined in our 2009 Annual Report on Form 10-K available through www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Contact:
Jameson Rose
(631) 342-8800
Email Contact

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

New Lab Opens in Lesotho With Support From Association of Public Health Laboratories

Posted on September 2, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Association of Public Health Laboratories

SILVER SPRING, MD–(Marketwire – September 2, 2010) –  A new laboratory, designed and built in accordance with international guidelines, opened September 1 in Maseru, Lesotho. The Makoanyane Military Hospital Laboratory now offers an expanded testing menu, including CD4 and Acid Fast Bacilli microscopy, and separate rooms dedicated to specimen reception, microbiology, chemistry, hematology and CD4 testing. The formerly limited, one-room hospital lab was transformed through a collaborative effort of The US Department of Defense and CDC’s Global AIDS Program to support the Lesotho Defense Force’s facility.

The Association of Public Health Laboratories (APHL) provided on-site support and technical assistance to the Lesotho Defense Force, the agency that operates the military hospital, through its cooperative agreement with CDC/GAP in support of PEPFAR.

Senior APHL consultant Kim Lewis worked on-site in Maseru on laboratory design, procurement of equipment and supplies, renovation oversight, organizing laboratory workflow and operations, staff development and initial steps toward WHO Accreditation through implementation of the Strengthening Laboratory Management Towards Accreditation Program. 

APHL will continue to support the new facility by implementing a quality system to assure accurate, reliable and timely test results.

“The laboratory provides access to testing services for a population with high rates of TB and HIV, and enables medical providers to effectively treat these diseases,” said Lewis. “The success of this collaboration is measured in the improved health of the people of Lesotho. The new lab will hopefully affect the well-being of families and lead to a better future for their children. We expect it to serve as a model for other countries.”

The Association of Public Health Laboratories is a national non-profit located in Silver Spring, MD, that is dedicated to working with members to strengthen governmental laboratories with a public health mandate. By promoting effective programs and public policy, APHL strives to provide public health laboratories with the resources and infrastructure needed to protect the health of US residents and to prevent and control disease globally.

Contact:
Michelle M. Forman
240.485.2793
Email Contact

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Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Camp Sunshine Named a Recipient of $100,000 "Hope Grant" From Hyundai Hope on Wheels

Posted on September 2, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Camp Sunshine

Donation Will Fund Expansion of Programs and Enable the National Nonprofit to Support More Families in Need

CASCO, ME–(Marketwire – September 2, 2010) –  Camp Sunshine, a one-of-a-kind national retreat in Casco for children with life-threatening illnesses and their families, today announced that Hyundai Hope on Wheels has selected the organization to receive a $100,000 “Hope Grant.” Hope on Wheels is a partnership of 800 Hyundai dealers across the United States and Hyundai Motor America aimed at raising awareness of childhood cancer. Camp Sunshine will use funds from the grant to sponsor two additional oncology sessions at the Camp in 2011.

On Sept. 25 — during National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month — Hope on Wheels will visit Camp Sunshine’s Casco campus and participate in a check presentation ceremony to commemorate the event. Throughout the month, Hope on Wheels will travel to all 68 Hope Grant recipients to present the donations and hear from children, their families and all of those involved in the fight against cancer.

“While we’ve made progress over the last few decades and now have an 85 percent cure rate, cancer still takes more lives than any other childhood disease,” said John Krafcik, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor America. “This September, in support of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, Hyundai will shine a nationwide spotlight on this cause and provide more than $6 million in grants for pediatric cancer research and support programs. We love taking on big challenges at Hyundai, and we can think of no more worthy challenge than finding a cure for all forms of pediatric cancer.”

Located in Maine’s scenic Sebago Lake region, Camp Sunshine features a 23-acre lakeside campus with private family suites, as well as a climbing wall, indoor swimming pool and computer learning center — all of which are free of charge to all families. To date, Camp Sunshine has welcomed families from 47 states and 17 countries.

“Camp Sunshine is delighted and humbled to receive this generous donation from Hyundai,” said Matt Hoidal, executive director, Camp Sunshine. “This investment will enable us to expand our programs in 2011 and bring nearly 1,000 children and their families much needed respite, support, and hope. We thank Hyundai and their network of dealers in Northern New England and around the country for helping us continue our service and contributions to the cancer community.”

About Camp Sunshine
Camp Sunshine offers children with life-threatening illnesses and their families a place to relax together for a week, and to take a break from the extraordinary demands placed upon them on a daily basis. The year-round program is free of charge and staffed almost entirely by volunteers. It is the only program in the nation whose mission is to address the impact of a life-threatening illness on every member of the immediate family — the ill child, the parents and the siblings. Since its inception in 1984, Camp Sunshine has provided a haven for more than 32,000 individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. In addition to providing 24-hour on-site medical and psychosocial support, the camp offers a variety of daily activities, including swimming, boating, archery and soccer, and special events such as bonfires and cookouts. To support Camp Sunshine, please call (207) 655-3800 or visit www.campsunshine.org.

About Hyundai Motor America
Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through more than 800 dealerships nationwide.

About Hyundai Hope on Wheels
Hyundai Hope on Wheels™ is the united effort of more than 800 Hyundai dealers across the U.S. to raise awareness about childhood cancer and celebrate the lives of children battling the disease. By the end of 2010, Hope on Wheels will have awarded more than $23 million dollars to children’s hospitals and non-profit organizations across the U.S. to support the fight against childhood cancer.

Media Contacts:
Camp Sunshine
Matthew M. Hoidal, Esq.
Executive Director
(207) 655-3800
[email protected]

KG Partners
Bryan Wyatt
(207) 773-0700
[email protected]

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Metiscan Discusses Revolutionary Technologies for $80B Convention, Trade Show and Meeting Industry, Digital Medical Information, Financial Highlights…

Posted on September 2, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Metiscan, Inc.

DALLAS, TX–(Marketwire – September 2, 2010) –  Metiscan, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: MTIZ) announced today shareholder points of interest discussed during the Company’s nationwide teleconference yesterday. Mr. Bryan A. Scott, President & CEO, and Mr. Brian Hart, COO of Metiscan, provided deeper insight into its subsidiaries’ markets, products, and near term objectives, as well as Metiscan’s pursuit in listing on the OTCBB.

During the Teleconference, Mr. Scott detailed Metiscan’s corporate structure as the parent company of a portfolio of enterprises with operations in healthcare, healthcare IT, mobile technology and employment services. Metiscan manages all aspects of its subsidiaries and is currently pursuing growing its subsidiary Taptopia through technologies that are unique to its products and through acquisitions that complement its subsidiaries’ operations. Metiscan’s four subsidiaries are FirstView EHR, Inc., Taptopia, Inc., Schuylkill Open MRI, Inc. and Shoreline Employment Services, Inc. Mr. Scott further discussed Metiscan’s recent filing of its registration statement and its goal to meet the OTC Market requirements to qualify for the OTCBB market tier.

Mr. Scott also mentioned how Taptopia was founded in July 2009 with the vision of applying new technologies to the $80 Billion convention, trade show and meeting industry that revolutionize the way show managers and event organizers do business. Mr. Scott stated that, “the industry is greatly in need of technologies, more specifically software technologies, that aid exhibitors and attendees to realize more value from their events, as well as aid show managers with tools that help increase attendance and reduce costs.” He also summarized that Taptopia’s goal is to create and roll out new patent protect software technologies, which Taptopia has in its pipeline.

Bryan Hart, COO of Metiscan, mentioned that the Company is trending in a positive manner. Mr. Hart explained how Metiscan realized approximately $2.5M in revenues for year-end 2009, a 144% increase from year-end 2008. During 2010, the Company’s revenues have continued to increase over the last two quarters. Mr. Hart stated, “This quarter alone we experienced a 47% increase in our revenues, or $165,439 from the same period in 2009.” Mr. Hart also mentioned that during the first half of 2010 Metiscan experienced a 16% increase in its revenues, a $194,111 gain. The Company’s overall revenues as of June 30, 2010 were $1,413,490.

Mr. Hart stressed the importance of how digital medical information, specifically the electronic healthcare record systems FirstView administers and Schuylkill Open MRI recently implemented, saves the medical industry time and money. He stated that, “Metiscan strongly believes that storing medical information digitally, and being able to distribute it electronically, is a great cost savings by itself.” Mr. Hart also mentioned that last year $19 billion in the stimulus package targeted physicians to use electronic health record systems because EHR technology cuts costs, eliminates paperwork and helps doctors deliver high quality, coordinated care to patients. Mr. Hart explained that this will benefit Metiscan both for its imaging center as it relates to the benefit of the operational efficiencies EHR provides, and for FirstView as it relates to the professional Healthcare IT services it provides.

Mr. Hart explained how Metiscan demonstrated positive income from operations during the first half of 2010 totaling $184,464. Mr. Hart mentioned that Metiscan has constantly been focused on increasing operational efficiencies in all of its subsidiaries. Mr. Hart gave the example of how Schuylkill Open MRI moved towards more economical service contracts for maintaining all of its MRI equipment in its diagnostic imaging center and recently implemented a new EHR system. With FirstView, Mr. Hart said it reduced costs related to operating its data center and the amount of personnel needed for its billing and collection activities. He summarized his discussion on Metiscan’s subsidiaries, pointing out that Shoreline, its employment services division, has focused on economies of scale as it relates to personnel resources and benefits.

In closing, Mr. Scott stated, “We are very excited about our business activities here at Metiscan. We have great expectations for our company and our team believes in its future. We have been successful in building a company that is displaying both financial growth and innovation in new products and technologies.”

A recording of Metiscan’s nationwide teleconference will be available on the Company’s website at: www.metiscan.com within the next few days.

About Metiscan, Inc.

Metiscan, Inc. (Metiscan) (PINKSHEETS: MTIZ) is the parent company of a portfolio of enterprises with operations in healthcare, healthcare IT, mobile technology and employment services. Metiscan manages all aspects of its subsidiaries and is currently pursuing acquisitions that complement its subsidiaries’ operations. Metiscan’s subsidiaries include FirstView EHR, Inc., Taptopia, Inc., Schuylkill Open MRI, Inc., Shoreline Employment Services, Inc. For more information visit www.metiscan.com

Safe Harbor Statement: Certain of the statements made in this press release constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 27E of the Securities Act of 1934. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other unknown factors that could cause Metiscan’s actual results to be materially different from the historical results or from any future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Statements contained in this release that are not historical facts may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. In addition to statements that explicitly describe such risks and uncertainties, readers are urged to consider statements labeled with the terms “believes,” “belief,” “intends,” “anticipates” or “plans” to be uncertain and forward-looking. The Company does not intend to update any of the forward-looking statements after the date of this release to conform these statements to actual results or to changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law.

Contact:

Investor Relations
1 407-389-5900
Email Contact

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Genome Research Group Issues Corporate Update and Outlines Objectives

Posted on September 2, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Genome Research Group

LONDON–(Marketwire – September 2, 2010) –  Genome Research Group (GRG) (PINKSHEETS: KKUR) recently announced its intended merger with ChromoCure, Inc. and consolidation of the operations and technologies of both groups. Genome Research Group personnel have assumed all executive and board duties and have no current or planned operations in the USA.

The company intends to open permanent offices in the United Kingdom as well as establish the first of several planned research labs and testing partners.

To date, the Company has not been able to secure its previously anticipated investment capital due to the declining USA economy and capital markets. The Company believes it has now secured satisfactory capital commitments and will proceed with its business plan accordingly.

The Company’s objectives are:

  1. Recapitalize the company’s stock structure and change the company’s trading symbol to trade under “Genome Research Group.”

  2. Establish business offices and permanent address in the United Kingdom with the most likely location being London.

  3. Structure the company’s operations as decentralized management with multiple operational hubs and team members around the world.

  4. Secure initial research lab space for the Company’s ongoing research and development for both its cancer imaging systems as well as its therapeutic protocols and animal modeling experiments.

  5. Appoint industry leaders to the Company’s Board of Advisors.

  6. Partner with cancer labs and pathology labs within the European Union. The Company does not believe the USA healthcare market will be an open market inviting of innovation or new ideas. The Company has no immediate plans to seek partnerships within the USA due to healthcare over-regulation and control by the US government.

  7. Complete and deploy company branding, image, and professional design of marketing and educational materials.

  8. File updated financial information with appropriate legal opinion letter to achieve “Current” reporting status. The Company has no immediate intent to become a “SEC Reporting” company due to the massive expense and liability of that status.

The Company intends to release updates from time to time as these actions are completed.

About Genome Research Group
Genome Research Group develops and provides proprietary cancer detection systems and related therapeutic technologies. The Company’s proprietary cancer detection system locates and measures unique genomic characteristic found in 100% of all cancers and never found in normal cells. The Company’s proprietary Therapeutic Modeling Protocols provide statistical modeling and prediction tools for the measurement and monitoring of cancer progression and remission. GRG owns proprietary techniques for non-toxic and non-invasive cancer therapy utilizing hypothermic modulation and resonance.

Safe-Harbor Statement
This release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements contained in this release that are not historical facts may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain. Actual performance and results may differ materially from that projected or suggested herein due to certain risks and uncertainties including, without limitation, ability to obtain financing and regulatory and shareholder approvals for anticipated actions.

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

AdCare Closes Lease of Three Additional Nursing Homes in Georgia, Adding $15.5 Million in Annualized Revenue

Posted on September 2, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: AdCare

SPRINGFIELD, OH–(Marketwire – September 2, 2010) –  AdCare Health Systems, Inc. (NYSE Amex: ADK), a recognized innovator in senior living and health care facility management, has closed the lease of three nursing homes according to the previously announced agreement to lease five additional nursing homes in Georgia.

The three nursing homes, which have been leased under a 10-year term, have an aggregate of 280 beds that generate approximately $15.5 million in annualized revenue. With the addition of these three facilities and other transactions closed earlier in the year, AdCare’s estimated annualized revenue run-rate now exceeds $79 million, as compared to $26.7 million for the year ended 2009.

Upon closing of the lease transaction, AdCare provided the lessor $195,000 for the first month’s lease payment and a portion of the security deposit, with the balance of $337,000 to be paid over five months comprising the balance of the security deposit and an amount equal to two months lease payments.

“This transaction is the third we’ve closed since we began our M&A campaign at the end of last year,” said Chris Brogdon, AdCare’s vice chairman and chief acquisitions officer. “We expect all of these facilities to be significant cash generators for AdCare, especially as they come under our highly capable management and benefit from our larger economy of scale.”

“As we work toward closing the currently pending transactions we’ve announced, including the lease of the remaining two nursing homes in Georgia, additional opportunities continue to emerge in the southern region of the U.S.,” said Brogdon. “We are working to establish the terms and necessary financings for several new potential acquisitions in our pipeline of equal or greater potential.”

Brogdon joined AdCare last September when the company announced a new M&A growth strategy to build upon its strong reputation for operational efficiency and high-quality living environments.

About AdCare Health Systems
AdCare Health Systems, Inc. (NYSE Amex: ADK) is a recognized innovator in senior living and health care facility management. AdCare develops, owns and manages assisted living facilities, nursing homes and retirement communities, as well as provides home health care services. Since its inception in 1988, AdCare’s mission has been to provide the highest quality of healthcare services to the elderly. For more information about AdCare, visit www.adcarehealth.com.

Important Cautions Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
 
Statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts may be forward-looking statements within the meaning of federal law. Such statement can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, such as “believes,” “expects,” “plans,” “intends,” “anticipates” and variations of such words or similar expressions, but their absence does not mean that the statement is not forward-looking. Statements in this announcement that are forward-looking include, but are not limited to, statements that the company expects all of these new facilities to be significant cash generators for AdCare. Such forward-looking statements reflect management’s beliefs and assumptions and are based on information currently available to management. The forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Such factors are identified in the public filings made by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission and include the Company’s ability to secure lines of credit and/or an acquisition credit facility, find suitable acquisition properties at favorable terms, changes in the health care industry because of political and economic influences, changes in regulations governing the industry, changes in reimbursement levels including those under the Medicare and Medicaid programs and changes in the competitive marketplace. There can be no assurance that such factors or other factors will not affect the accuracy of such forward-looking statements.

Company Contact
Chris Brogdon, Vice Chairman & CAO
AdCare Health Systems, Inc.
Tel (937) 964-8974
Email: Email Contact

Investor Relations
Ron Both or Geoffrey Plank
Liolios Group, Inc.
Tel (949) 574-3860
Email: Email Contact

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Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

AeroScout Reports Record First Half of 2010 With More Than 200 Healthcare RTLS Deals Completed

Posted on September 1, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: AeroScout

Wi-Fi Drives Adoption as Healthcare Organizations Around the World Improve Efficiency, Compliance and Patient Care Using Existing Wi-Fi Infrastructures

REDWOOD CITY, CA–(Marketwire – September 1, 2010) – AeroScout, the leading provider of Unified Asset Visibility for the healthcare industry, today announced continued strong growth in its healthcare business, extending its global lead in the healthcare market. 2009 was a record year for AeroScout healthcare revenue, and subsequent to that, the first half of 2010 represented the strongest two quarters in the company’s history for AeroScout’s Healthcare Real-Time Location System (RTLS). In those two quarters, AeroScout received more than 200 orders for its healthcare solutions, which provide real-time visibility into the location, status and condition of assets, patients and staff, from healthcare organizations around the world. One of the main reasons for the rapid adoption is that, with AeroScout’s Wi-Fi RFID solutions, organizations are able to leverage their existing, standard Wi-Fi infrastructures instead of deploying and maintaining separate proprietary networks. 

“In addition to its comprehensive set of Healthcare RTLS solutions and integration capabilities, AeroScout offers hospitals the opportunity to save money while reducing risk and complexity by using their Wi-Fi networks instead of proprietary networks,” said Gregg Malkary, Managing Director of Spyglass. “This means its clients don’t need to purchase, wire and maintain an overlay network, and it has led to rapid growth for AeroScout and Wi-Fi RFID over the past few years.”

Complementing the Wi-Fi advantages, other factors that have contributed to AeroScout’s increasing market leadership include its track record with top hospitals and healthcare systems around the world, its robust suite of solutions, and the ease with which AeroScout solutions integrate with other healthcare information systems, hospital equipment and business processes.

AeroScout has completed implementations at hundreds of healthcare organizations, covering every major region of the world — North America, Australia, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Latin America. The experience gained over the years from these customers and deployments has continued to increase AeroScout’s healthcare expertise and customer base. Examples of global healthcare customers include:

  • Adventist Health System, Winter Park, Florida, USA
  • Macquarie University Hospital, Sydney, Australia
  • GZA Hospital Group, Antwerp, Belgium
  • Akita University Hospital, Akita, Japan
  • Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil

AeroScout’s comprehensive solutions allow customers to work with a single, proven provider and implement one platform for all current and future asset, patient and staff visibility needs. This includes enterprise-wide asset and people tracking, room-level location, bay-level (sub-room) resolution, optional chokepoint detection, condition monitoring and passive RFID applications.

Focusing on the needs of its global healthcare customers, AeroScout is continuously expanding and enhancing its robust set of healthcare applications, which includes Asset Management, Condition Monitoring, Patient Flow and Patient & Staff Safety. For example, the company recently enhanced its Patient Flow and Patient & Staff Safety solutions by designing and producing the world’s smallest Wi-Fi Tag for patients and staff. AeroScout also supplemented its Condition Monitoring offerings with Humidity Monitoring Solutions, which include Wi-Fi Tags and end-user software.

AeroScout’s range of integrations with healthcare information systems is the broadest in the RTLS market. AeroScout offers integrations with nurse call systems, maintenance management systems, infusion pumps, security and building automation systems, VoIP communication devices and more. For example, AeroScout now integrates with the Rauland-Borg Responder 5 Nurse Call system to enable improved clinician efficiency and workflow. AeroScout also provides MobileView for VoIP Phones, which delivers AeroScout’s end-user software on VoIP communication devices to enhance staff productivity, mobility and communication.

“To serve our multiplying healthcare customer base, we continue to develop and enhance solutions to drive additional value for our clients,” said Yuval Bar-Gil, CEO of AeroScout. “Hospital and healthcare organizations across the globe are using AeroScout’s Wi-Fi-based solutions to reduce capital and operational expenses, increase staff efficiency, facilitate regulatory compliance and improve patient care.”

About AeroScout
AeroScout is the market leader in Unified Asset Visibility solutions. Customers improve operational efficiency using AeroScout products that leverage standard Wi-Fi networks to track and manage the location, condition and status of mobile assets and people. AeroScout’s global customer base consists of leading hospital, manufacturing and logistics organizations, including many of the Fortune 500. The company invented the first Wi-Fi-based Active RFID tag, and today is widely recognized as leading the market in number of deployments and tags shipped. Headquartered in Redwood City, California, AeroScout has offices in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Australia and Latin America. For more information, please visit www.aeroscout.com.

AeroScout is a registered trademark of AeroScout, Inc. Wi-Fi is a trademark of the Wi-Fi Alliance. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Information is subject to change without notice.

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

St. Luke’s Hospital Officially Becomes Member of ProMedica Health System

Posted on September 1, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: ProMedica Health System

MAUMEE, OH–(Marketwire – September 1, 2010) –  After completing several months of rigorous due diligence following the signing of a definitive agreement to bring the two organizations together, the transaction is now complete and St. Luke’s Hospital has officially become a member of ProMedica Health System.

“We are thrilled that St. Luke’s has joined ProMedica,” says Randy Oostra, President and CEO of ProMedica. “Both organizations are dedicated to achieving the same overarching Mission: to improve the health of the people we serve. St. Luke’s joining ProMedica will help facilitate collaborative endeavors to better address critical health and social needs throughout the community. In the near term and for generations to come, it is imperative that organizations such as ours seek to achieve more effective and efficient clinical integration as we expand access to exceptional care.” 

“We have a promise at St. Luke’s — ‘Patients First. Always.’ Becoming a member of ProMedica allows us to continue to expand on that proud tradition of service and compassionate care,” says Dan Wakeman, President/CEO of St. Luke’s Hospital. “Both organizations have much to learn and share with each other. We each have unique and distinguishing characteristics, and as we join ProMedica we have the opportunity to find synergies and build on the strengths of both our cultures.”

The most visible initial change the community and employees will notice is that St. Luke’s will now be included in the Paramount Health Care network. As a result, Paramount members and ProMedica employees will have access to St. Luke’s services. In addition, St. Luke’s employees will have access to ProMedica services and facilities through Medical Mutual’s Ohio SuperMed Plus network. 

“The due diligence we have conducted over the last several months has been intense and detailed,” says Barbara Steele, President, Acute Care, ProMedica Health System. “Yet, in many ways, the work starts now as teams begin the process of analyzing which services should be integrated to achieve efficiencies.”

The goal of service line and clinical integration is to:

  • provide convenient and easier access to programs and services;
  • provide a comprehensive continuum of care;
  • enhance the physician’s ability to care for patients and improve quality-of-life issues;
  • look for opportunities to create “Best in Class” programs to better serve patients and communities; and
  • evaluate ways to add value to existing services.

“Nationwide, resources are shrinking while the need for top-quality health care has never been higher,” says Oostra. “With St. Luke’s as a member of ProMedica, we will be better able to proactively provide more effective and efficient coordination of care — and that will position us ahead of the health care reform curve and help meet the critical needs of our communities.”

About St. Luke’s Hospital
Located in Maumee, St. Luke’s Hospital is a full-service community hospital. Each year, this non-profit health care organization cares for more than 235,000 patients. Its 1,500 employees and 600 physicians provide a wide range of inpatient and outpatient services including high-risk cardiac surgery, oncology, labor and delivery, medical/surgical, critical and emergency care.

St. Luke’s is the only hospital in northwest Ohio to be ISO 9001:2008 certified, representing a highly collaborative accrediting process that encourages innovation in health care. The hospital is regularly recognized by third-party quality ratings organizations that rank St. Luke’s within the top 10% of hospitals nationally, based on outcomes, cost and patient satisfaction. For more information, visit www.stlukeshospital.com

About ProMedica Health System
ProMedica Health System, a mission-based organization that is ranked among the Top 5 most integrated health systems in the U.S., was formed in 1986 and is a Toledo, Ohio-based, not-for-profit healthcare organization with nearly 15,000 employees; 2,900 physicians and more than 283 facilities in Ohio and Michigan. ProMedica serves more than 2.4 million patients annually and includes 10 hospitals; ProMedica Continuum Services with senior, hospice, rehabilitation, and integrative services; ProMedica Physician Group, a network of more than 300 primary care, obstetrics and specialist physicians; and Paramount Health Care, the largest HMO in northwest Ohio. For more information, please visit www.promedica.org.

Contact:
Kathleen Connell, APR
Office: 419-893-5923
Cell: 419-350-1844

Timothy Langhorst, APR
Office: 419-469-3724
Cell: 419-343-2248

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Media Advisory: Hospitalized Children in New Jersey Get Sneak Peak of Air Show — and Talk With U.S.A.F. Air Combat Command Pilots in West Virginia –…

Posted on September 1, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Glowpoint

HILLSIDE, NJ–(Marketwire – September 1, 2010) – Infirmed children at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital in Paterson, New Jersey, will get to talk via a video connection with U.S.A.F. Air Combat Command Pilots, and view aerial demonstrations, before the official start of the “Thunder Over the Blue Ridge Open House & Air Show” in Martinsburg, West Virginia. The video event takes place 1-2 PM EDT on Friday, September 3, 2010 at the Giggles Children’s Theatre, located at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, 703 Main Street, Paterson, NJ. This opportunity is sponsored by “Operation: Aviators for Kids,” a partnership involving a Cisco video connection provided by Core BTS, managed services donated by Glowpoint, and Polycom videoconferencing end-point technology provided by Medical Missions for Children at the Giggles Children’s Theater.

Event Details  
   
Time: 1-2 PM EDT
   
Date: Friday, September 3, 2010
   
Location: Giggles Children’s Theatre, St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, 703
  Main Street, Paterson, NJ 07503
   
Event Contact: Christopher Welch, +1 (312) 235-3888, ext. 2017, [email protected]
   
Hospital On-site Contact: Marie Caliendo, +1 (201) 417-0245, [email protected]
   
Air Show On-site Contact: Tom Bendien, +1 (571) 315-3665, [email protected]

About “Thunder Over the Blue Ridge” Open House & Air Show
The 167th Airlift Wing is proud to be hosting the “Thunder Over the Blue Ridge Open House & Air Show” on September 4 – 5, 2010. Building on the success of the 2008 Spirit of America Over Martinsburg Air Show, the 167th Airlift Wing, along with the Eastern West Virginia Regional Airport and the United Way of the Eastern Panhandle, will be bringing together some of the nation’s most exciting aerial demonstration teams, including the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, U.S. Air Force A-10 Demo East, U.S. Navy F-18 Hornet, and U.S. Army Golden Knights.

About St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital
St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital at St. Joseph’s Regional Medical Center is a leader in comprehensive health care for children. Recognized for our high standard of quality responsive and compassionate pediatric care, St. Joseph’s is a state designated children’s hospital offering a broad spectrum of services for patients from birth to 21 years of age — and their families.

When children are ill or injured, their condition and treatment can affect their overall development in ways that are important to foresee. That is why we say we “treat the whole child,” and have implemented a team approach to treatment. The various pediatric specialists at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital share their knowledge and experience to identify and anticipate complications that may impact the child’s state-of-mind and future development.

Blazing new paths in leading-edge technology and care, St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital practices family-centered care. We strive to make children and families feel safe and to help them understand, and cope with, the challenges of illness.

About Glowpoint
Glowpoint, Inc. (OTCBB: GLOW) enables video users to effortlessly and securely call one another regardless of their video technology or network. With unlimited, “open” access to Glowpoint’s cloud-based, hosted-video infrastructure and services, video calling within — and between — companies is dramatically simplified. From full-featured telepresence and video conferencing suites to desktop video, Glowpoint supports customers around the world with 24/7 managed services that allow business professionals to enjoy “in-the-same-room” intimacy and cost savings. To see a video-in-the-cloud demonstration, and to learn more about how cost-effective and easy telepresence and video conferencing can be for your business, email us at [email protected] or visit http://www.glowpoint.com.

About Core BTS, Inc.
Core BTS, Inc. is a business technology infrastructure company that first seeks to understand you and your business, then helps you utilize technology to move your business forward. Headquartered in Madison, WI with 11 offices in six states, Core BTS delivers unified communications, data center, video, enterprise architecture and security solutions. See www.corebts.com to find an office near you or contact our headquarters at [email protected] or by phone at (608) 661-7700.

About Medical Missions for Children
Founded in 1999, Medical Missions for Children is dedicated to the mission of providing quality healthcare to critically-ill children throughout the world. It is an organization that knows no geographic boundaries and to date has successfully implemented 108 medical treatment and education programs in as many countries. Tapping into the volunteer spirit of the North American medical community, MMC hosts a consultative and educational support network for healthcare providers in developing nations who often lack the resources and specialty knowledge needed to successfully diagnosis and treat an infinite number of medical conditions.

The name of MMC’s communications infrastructure is the Global Telemedicine & Teaching Network™ (GTTN). The GTTN is a satellite- and Internet-based communications system that features an ever-expending digitized, video-based medical library, a global satellite-broadcast TV station (Medical Broadcast Channel – MBC), and an Internet Protocol (IP) supported, real-time, videoconference-based, remote diagnostics capability. The distribution of medical knowledge transported across the GTTN is supported by a network of 27 U.S.-based medical institutions, whose medical expertise is leveraged first to support a fully interactive telemedicine system and secondly to build a repository of medical content that is subsequently broadcast over MMC’s satellite and Internet2 distribution platforms. The GTTN is also used to broadcast live and pre-recorded child entertainment programming designed to touch the lives of hospitalized children throughout the U.S. and overseas.

Christopher Welch
+1 (312) 235-3888, ext. 2017
Email Contact

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

New Data Will Help Predict Vision Loss in Glaucoma

Posted on September 1, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: American Academy of Ophthalmology

September 2010 Ophthalmology Journal Reports Rotterdam Study Update

SAN FRANCISCO, CA–(Marketwire – September 1, 2010) –  Eye M.D.s are intent on finding better ways to diagnose and treat glaucoma, a complex, potentially blinding disease. September’s Ophthalmology journal includes new data from the Rotterdam Study that will help doctors better predict visual field loss in glaucoma patients. Johannes R. Vingerling, MD, PhD, Erasmus Medical Center, The Netherlands, and his colleagues followed 6,630 participants for ten years. The patients had optic nerve damage but no VFL when they joined the study. Ophthalmology is the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. 

Worldwide, glaucoma is the most frequent cause of preventable blindness, but up to 80 percent of people who have the disease are unaware of it and so do not receive treatment that could help save their sight. Primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) is the most common form of the disease in the United States and many other countries. Visual field loss (VFL) is the shrinking of the “scope” of what a person can see; it usually begins as a loss of side (peripheral) vision in people who have POAG.

If untreated, POAG causes irreversible blindness. This occurs through progressive loss of the nerve cells in the eye’s retina, which leads to abnormal changes in the optic nerve. Over time, these changes can reduce the field of vision (visual field) and also disrupt the transmission of images to the brain’s vision center. 

“In this patient population, the risk of developing VFL was related to higher intraocular pressure (pressure within the eye, IOP), older age, a high level of myopia (nearsightedness), male gender, a family history of glaucoma, and a higher vertical cup-to-disk ratio (a measurement of the optic nerve head),” said Dr. Vingerling. His team’s data also provide an estimate of the long-term incidence of VFL in an older, white European population.

Higher IOP often contributes to POAG, and patients with high IOP (a condition also called ocular hypertension) are carefully monitored by their ophthalmologists.

Eye M.D.s also use the visual field test as a screening device to identify patients who might be developing glaucoma (or other eye diseases that affect the visual field) and who need comprehensive eye exams to determine their exact diagnosis.

Eds: Full text of the study is available from the Academy’s media relations department.

About the American Academy of Ophthalmology
The American Academy of Ophthalmology is the world’s largest association of eye physicians and surgeons — Eye M.D.s — with more than 29,000 members worldwide. Eye health care is provided by the three “O’s” — opticians, optometrists and ophthalmologists. It is the ophthalmologist, or Eye M.D., who can treat it all: eye diseases and injuries, and perform eye surgery. To find an Eye M.D. in your area, visit the Academy’s Web site at www.aao.org.

Contact:
Media Relations
(415) 561-8534
[email protected]

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

MEDIA ADVISORY/PHOTO OP: Brite Studios’ Grand Opening Brings Sought After Childcare Services to Expanding Calgary Community

Posted on September 1, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

CALGARY, ALBERTA–(Marketwire – Sept. 1, 2010) –

WHAT: Next Wednesday, September 8, marks the grand opening of Brite Studios’ (Brite’s) new location. Brite Studios, formerly known as Calgary Children’s Centre, is Calgary’s premier childcare and recreational facility. At their launch event, Brite will demonstrate how they are working to improve the quality and amount of childcare services in our ever-growing city. 

As part of the event, there will be a creative ribbon-cutting ceremony as well as a brief performance by some of the children who attend Brite Studios. There will also be interactive artwork involving the attendees. The Honourable Ron Liepert and Alderman Joe Connelly will be in attendance to show their support. They will be addressing the audience with a few words on the importance of Brite Studios.

Representatives of Brite Studios, local and provincial government and academics will be gathering to celebrate the new name and location of this important centre for child learning and recreation.

WHO: In attendance will be:

Alberta Energy Minister Ron Liepert

Alderman Joe Connelly

Lisa Davis, Founder and CEO of Brite Studios

WHEN: Wednesday, September 8, 2010 

10:00 a.m. 

*Media are requested to arrive at 9:45 a.m. sharp.

WHERE: 

Brite Studios

Unit 148, 30 Springborough Blvd SW

Calgary, AB T3H 0N9

*Photo opportunities are available.

*Click here for map.

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

UV Flu Technologies UV-400 Generating Excitement in the Air Purifier Marketplace

Posted on September 1, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: UV Flu Technologies, Inc.

Persistent Odor and VOC Reduction Capability Gets Favorable Response

CENTERVILLE, MA–(Marketwire – September 1, 2010) –  UV Flu Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB: UVFT) (the “Company”) announced today that the improved features added to its UV-400 air purifier have been generating a surprising amount of interest from distributors.

The Company recently began coating the inside of its patented UV-400 cartridge with a thin layer of the photo-catalyst Titanium Dioxide (TiO2). Combined with the germicidal UV lamps contained within the cartridge, and moisture in the air, the hydroxyl radicals produced by the TiO2 accelerate the breakdown of molecular bonds present as odors or in the case of Volatile Organic Compounds (“VOC”). These compounds are converted into harmless water vapor and carbon dioxide, which results in significantly reducing the concentration and effects of odors and VOC’s.

“Volatile Organic Compounds, such as acetone, formaldehyde, benzene, as well as hundreds of other compounds, are surprisingly common in offices or households, and can be harmful in even small concentrations to people with respiratory problems, especially children and the elderly,” stated Jack Lennon, President of UV Flu Technologies. “Carpets, building materials, cleaning supplies, paints and varnishes, vinyl floors and furniture, air fresheners, copiers and printers, pesticides, secondhand smoke, wood burning stoves, nail polish remover and hair products; are all just a small sample of the products emitting VOC’s, many of which cause allergic reactions, as well as many of them containing known carcinogens. The UV-400 product has undergone laboratory tests which show the concentration of VOC’s are reduced significantly with each pass, which is repeated several times per hour in a typical room.”

“Many of our customers are very excited about this feature,” commented Bill Fegley, President of Puravair, a major distributor of UV Flu products. “The reduction of the concentration of these compounds and odors is considered very important to a wide array of our customer base, such as salons, health clubs, funeral homes, restaurants and athletic facilities. This feature, combined with the UV-400’s proven ability to kill bacteria, make it a compelling purchase for any location that commonly finds these types of airborne contaminants present in the course of their day-to-day operations.”

Further details regarding the Company’s business, financial reports and agreements are filed as part of the Company’s continuous public disclosure as a reporting issuer under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (“SEC”) EDGAR database.

About UV Flu Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB: UVFT)
UV Flu Technologies is an innovative developer, manufacturer and distributor of bio technology products initially targeting the rapidly growing Indoor Air Quality (“IAQ”) industry sector. The Company manufactures the VIRATECH UV-400, which utilizes high-intensity germicidal ultraviolet radiation (UV-C) inside a killing chamber that goes beyond filtration to destroy harmful airborne bacteria at rates exceeding 99.2% on a first-pass basis. The FDA has issued a coveted Class II medical listing that enables UV Flu Technologies to market the product as a medical device.

Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This news release contains “forward-looking statements” as that term is defined in Section 27A of the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Statements in this press release which are not purely historical are forward-looking statements and include any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Such forward-looking statements include, among other things, the development, costs and results of new business opportunities. Actual results could differ from those projected in any forward-looking statements due to numerous factors. Such factors include, among others, the inherent uncertainties associated with new projects and development stage companies. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release, and we assume no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Although we believe that any beliefs, plans, expectations and intentions contained in this press release are reasonable, there can be no assurance that any such beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions will prove to be accurate. Investors should consult all of the information set forth herein and should also refer to the risk factors disclosure outlined in our annual report on Form 10-K for the most recent fiscal year, our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and other periodic reports filed from time-to-time with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

UV Flu Technologies, Inc.
—————————–
John J. Lennon, President & CEO

Investor Information:
Geaux IR Services, Inc.
Toll-Free: 1-888-355-8838
Email Contact

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Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Metiscan Nationwide Teleconference Today

Posted on September 1, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Metiscan, Inc.

Company to Discuss Shareholder Points of Interest

DALLAS, TX–(Marketwire – September 1, 2010) –  Metiscan, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: MTIZ) is pleased to announce that the Company will be hosting a Nationwide Teleconference today, Wednesday, September 1, 2010 at 4:15 PM (Eastern Daylight Time) to update the financial community on points of interest that affect Metiscan and its shareholders. The Company will be discussing its recent operational accomplishments that have transpired over the previous six months as well as providing insight into objectives Metiscan has outlined for the near term.

If you would like to participate in the Nationwide Teleconference with Metiscan at 4:15 PM EDT today, please dial 1-800-871-9060, pass code 943301958#.

“This teleconference is very timely for Metiscan; we have accomplished many goals during the last six months that we want to share with the investment community and we look forward to discussing what’s next for the Company in a public forum,” stated Bryan A. Scott, CEO & President of Metiscan, Inc.

The Nationwide Teleconference will be hosted and moderated by Marc Jablon, CEO of Big Apple Consulting USA. The featured speakers for Metiscan, Inc. will be Bryan A. Scott, President, CEO & Director, and Brian Hart, COO.

About Metiscan, Inc.
Metiscan, Inc. (Metiscan), (PINKSHEETS: MTIZ), is the parent company of a portfolio of enterprises with operations in healthcare, healthcare IT, mobile technology and employment services. Metiscan manages all aspects of its subsidiaries and is currently pursuing acquisitions that complement its subsidiaries’ operations. Metiscan’s subsidiaries include FirstView EHR, Inc., Taptopia, Inc., Schuylkill Open MRI, Inc., Shoreline Employment Services, Inc. For more information visit www.metiscan.com.

Safe Harbor Statement: Certain of the statements made in this press release constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 27E of the Securities Act of 1934. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other unknown factors that could cause Metiscan’s actual results to be materially different from the historical results or from any future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Statements contained in this release that are not historical facts may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. In addition to statements that explicitly describe such risks and uncertainties, readers are urged to consider statements labeled with the terms “believes,” “belief,” “intends,” “anticipates” or “plans” to be uncertain and forward-looking. The Company does not intend to update any of the forward-looking statements after the date of this release to conform these statements to actual results or to changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law.

Contact:
Investor Relations
1 407-389-5900
Email Contact

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Ossur Forms Strategic Alliance With Hely & Weber

Posted on September 1, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Ossur Americas

New Partnership Gives Ossur Customers More Choices in High-Quality Orthopaedic Soft Goods

FOOTHILL RANCH, CA–(Marketwire – September 1, 2010) –  Össur, a global leader in non-invasive orthopaedics, today announced a new strategic alliance with Hely & Weber, a supplier of innovative, high-quality braces and supports. Founded in 1992, founders John Hely and Jim Weber have a combined 76 years of experience in the orthopedic and sports medicine industry. The Hely & Weber line includes renowned products such as the Titan Wrist Brace, Shields Patella Stabilizer, Knapp Hinged Knee, and 24 patented soft bracing products which have a long history of successful clinical performance.

Beginning September 1, Össur will participate in an agreement to distribute Hely & Weber’s line of soft goods through Össur’s Group Purchasing Organization (GPO) contracts. Hely & Weber’s line will also be available through three of Össur’s representatives: Team Makena (So.CA), Synergy Orthopedics (East PA, NJ), and Dashe Orthopedic Supplies (TX, AR, OK).

“We welcome the opportunity to provide Hely & Weber’s high-quality products to our customers,” said Mahesh Mansukhani, Össur Americas president. “The addition of Hely & Weber products to our line expands our ability to provide innovative products that drive successful patient outcomes for our customers.”

John Hely, CEO of Hely & Weber, commented, “We are excited about the opportunity to work with Össur to strengthen our market presence. Össur is a leading company that is well positioned to continue its success in the non-invasive orthopaedic area.”

About Össur

Össur (NASDAQ/OMX: OSSR) is a global leader in non-invasive orthopaedics that help people live a life without limitations. Its business is focused on improving people’s mobility through the delivery of innovative technologies within the fields of braces, supports, prosthetic limbs and compression therapies. A recognized “Technology Pioneer,” Össur invests significantly in research and product development; its award-winning designs ensuring a consistently strong position in the market. Successful patient and clinical outcomes are further empowered via Össur’s educational programs and business solutions. Headquartered in Iceland, Össur has major operations in the Americas, Europe and Asia, with additional distributors worldwide. Össur Americas’ headquarters are based in Orange County, CA.

Contacts
Ossur Americas:
Mary Nash
Director of Marketing Communications
(949) 382-3844
[email protected]

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Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

MyMedicalRecords Sponsors Hallmark Channel’s "The Spirit of Mississippi" and Clear Channel Network Radio Launch of Personal Health Records

Posted on September 1, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: MMRGlobal, Inc.

LOS ANGELES, CA–(Marketwire – September 1, 2010) –  MMRGlobal, Inc. (OTCBB: MMRF) (www.mmrglobal.com) expands its advertising of Personal Health Records products and services (www.mymedicalrecords.com) on national television tonight, September 1, 2010, at 6 pm EDT, in “The Spirit of Mississippi,” on the Hallmark Channel. The Company also announced that starting today, a nationwide radio Listener Loyalty Program was launched with Clear Channel Communications in which listeners will be directed to MMR’s website to take advantage of the Company’s end of Summer Labor Day promotion of a 30-day trial and $25 toward the cost of their next doctor visit (www.mmrvideos.com).

Robert H. Lorsch, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of MMRGlobal, said, “Labor Day weekend was chosen to launch this radio marketing campaign because it is a great time to reach consumers about the importance of having a Personal Health Record when traveling with the family.”

Lorsch continued, “The people of Mississippi and the entire Gulf region are making progress in rebuilding their lives. Our products offer the reliability and resiliency needed to recover more quickly from any emergency or disaster. With MyMedicalRecords, individuals and families can have direct access to their most important documents, including insurance policies, deeds of trust, wills, birth certificates and advance directives, in addition to their medical records. Everything is located in one secure, convenient location accessible from any Internet connection anywhere in the world.”

About Clear Channel Communications, Inc.

Founded in 1972, with headquarters in San Antonio, TX, the Company broadcasts in over 50 countries through its divisions, Clear Channel Radio: San Antonio, TX and Clear Channel Outdoor: San Antonio, TX and reaches more than 154 million people, or 75% of the 18+ U.S. population, operating over 800 radio stations reaching more than 97 million listeners every week. With international partners, the Company owns and operates more than 140 radio stations in Australia and New Zealand. Premiere Radio Networks syndicates 90 radio programs and services to more than 5,000 radio stations affiliations reaching over 190 million listeners a week.

About MMRGlobal, Inc.

MMR Global, Inc., through its wholly-owned operating subsidiary, MyMedicalRecords, Inc. (“MMR”), provides secure and easy-to-use online Personal Health Records (“PHRs”) and electronic safe deposit box storage solutions, serving consumers, healthcare professionals, employers, insurance companies, financial institutions, and professional organizations and affinity groups. MyMedicalRecords enables individuals and families to access their medical records and other important documents, such as birth certificates, passports, insurance policies and wills, anytime from anywhere using the Internet. The MyMedicalRecords Personal Health Record is built on proprietary, patented technologies to allow documents, images and voicemail messages to be transmitted and stored in the system using a variety of methods, including fax, phone, or file upload without relying on any specific electronic medical record platform to populate a user’s account. The Company’s professional offering, MMRPro, is designed to give physicians’ offices an easy and cost-effective solution to digitizing paper-based medical records and sharing them with patients in real time through an integrated patient portal. MMR is an Independent Software Vendor Partner with Kodak to deliver an integrated turnkey EMR solution for healthcare professionals. MMR is also an integrated service provider on Google Health. To learn more about MMR Global, Inc. and its products, visit www.mymedicalrecords.com and view the videos at www.mmrtheater.com.

Forward-Looking Statements. Any statements contained in this press release that refer to future events or other non-historical matters are forward-looking statements. MMRGlobal, Inc. disclaims any intent or obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on MMRGlobal, Inc.’s reasonable expectations as of the date of this press release and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations. The information discussed in this release is subject to various risks and uncertainties related to changes in MMRGlobal, Inc.’s business prospects, results of operations or financial condition, government regulation, television programming changes, and such other risks and uncertainties as detailed from time to time in MMRGlobal, Inc.’s public filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

Contact:

Michael Selsman
Public Communications Co.
(310) 553-5732
[email protected]

Bobbie Volman
MMRGlobal, Inc.
(310) 476-7002, Ext. 2005
[email protected]

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Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Veteran Healthcare Consultant Bob Noel to Lead StayWell Custom Communications’ Professional Services Team

Posted on September 1, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: StayWell Custom Communications

EVANSTON, IL–(Marketwire – September 1, 2010) –  Custom health communications company StayWell Custom Communications (SCC), a division of MediMedia USA, has announced that Bob Noel has joined the organization as Vice President of Professional Services.

In his new role, Noel will spearhead the company’s consulting services to help clients achieve best of class implementation of StayWell Custom Communications’ content and cross-media solutions in order to achieve business results.

Noel brings a wealth of professional services experience to the position, including work as
a consultant with more than 100 hospitals and healthcare organizations. He was a co-founder and Executive Vice President of Greystone.Net, Inc., where he provided consulting services to assist clients in the implementation and integration of the Greystone online consumer health information libraries.

Noel’s previous experience also includes working as a Senior Manager in the health care consulting practice of Ernst & Young and as an Assistant Administrator at the University of Alabama in Birmingham Medical Center. He earned a Master’s degree in Healthcare Administration from the University of Alabama in Birmingham. 

“We are extremely pleased to welcome Bob Noel to our team and look forward to the value he’ll bring our clients in their implementation of our solutions,” said StayWell Custom Communications president and CEO Trent Sterling. “With more options than ever for integration of our content across multiple channels and strategies — including SEO, social media, mobile and electronic medical records — it’s increasingly important that our clients undertake a rigorous approach to integration in order to realize the full value of our solutions.”

About StayWell Custom Communications

StayWell Custom Communications is the leader in custom health content solutions delivered via a variety of sophisticated technology platforms. Our interactive offerings include robust web platforms, online health libraries, e-mail and SMS (or mobile) marketing programs, and an extensive range of multimedia tools including video, podcasts and animations. The company serves hundreds of clients representing several channels in the healthcare industry: hospitals and health systems; health plans; employers; and retail organizations. StayWell Custom Communications also offers a comprehensive range of print and print/interactive integrated solutions to meet a broad range of clients’ marketing and communication needs. 

For more information visit www.staywellcustom.com.

About MediMedia

Headquartered in Yardley, PA, with 1,700 employees in offices throughout the U.S., MediMedia changes consumer and professional behaviors through superior engagement, education and end-user preferences. Our health information services group creates, publishes, distributes, and syndicates on and off-line health information to help consumers make informed health decisions on behalf of a variety of sponsors, including providers — both hospitals and physicians, payers, and online media companies. Our health management services group provides population health management services which help consumers lower their health risk, enabling employers to lower their risks, utilization and ultimately their health care expenses. And finally, our professional segment derives its revenues from providing online/off-line professional promotion, engagement, and education services targeted to healthcare professionals and their patients.

MediMedia is a Vestar Capital Partners portfolio company.

For more information contact:
Julie Doyle
StayWell Custom Communications
(847)733-4514
Email Contact

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Aegis’ ProTek(R) Excipients Prevent Aggregation and Eliminate Unwanted beta-Interferon Immunogenicity

Posted on September 1, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Aegis Therapeutics LLC

SAN DIEGO, CA–(Marketwire – September 1, 2010) –  Recombinant human beta-interferon reduces the frequency of multiple sclerosis (MS) exacerbations and improves MS outcome measures. Unfortunately, current beta-interferon drug products form aggregates that provoke a neutralizing antibody response in MS patients, significantly reducing the effectiveness of the drug.

In a Journal article titled: “n-Dodecyl-?-D-Maltoside Inhibits Aggregation of Human Interferon-?-1b and Reduces Its Immunogenicity” which appeared in the Journal of Neuroimmune Pharmacology, published online on June 7, 2010 scientists from a leading US University Medical School report that addition of a patented ProTek® excipient, a pharmaceutical grade of dodecyl maltoside developed by Aegis, inhibits aggregation and prevents development of antibodies in vivo suggesting a route to greatly improved beta interferon formulations. The abstract of the scientific report may be viewed online at: http://www.springerlink.com/content/v46614510n311211/.

According to Dr. Edward T. Maggio, CEO of Aegis Therapeutics, “Aggregation-induced immunogenicity is a problem for many protein therapeutics, reducing drug effectiveness and in extreme instances, causing life-threatening adverse reactions as with erythropoietin and Factor VIII. And because protein aggregation also adversely affects manufacturing process yields and drug potency it has become a major concern for pharmaceutical formulators worldwide.”

ProTek® excipients are being used to prevent aggregation of monoclonal antibodies, human growth hormone, parathyroid hormone, and insulin, as well as a number of undisclosed proprietary peptide or protein therapeutics now in development.

About Aegis Therapeutics
Aegis Therapeutics commercializes its patented drug delivery and drug formulation technologies through product specific licenses. Our Intravail® technology enables the non-invasive delivery of a broad range of protein, peptide and non-peptide macromolecular therapeutics that can currently only be administered by injection with exceptionally high and unmatched bioavailability. Our ProTek® technology provides proprietary, easily manufacturable, aqueous dosage forms that are stable at elevated temperature and that reduce unwanted immunogenicity of many protein and peptide therapeutics.

Contact Information:

Ralph Barry
Chief Business Officer
Aegis Therapeutics LLC
1-858-618-1400 Ext. 102
Email: Email Contact

Edward T. Maggio, PhD
CEO
Aegis Therapeutics LLC
1-858-618-1400 Ext. 101
Email: Email Contact

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Back to School or Work Resolutions Aim to Reduce Stress and Pain at Your Computer According to Body Insight Inc.

Posted on August 31, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Body Insight Inc.

LOS ANGELES, CA–(Marketwire – August 31, 2010) –  That back to school time of year is here again and whether you are a student, a parent, or a burnt-out employee, the return to a regular schedule generates feelings of renewal and promise. Back to school (or back to work) resolutions focus more on improving stress management and decreasing the aches and pains associated with deskwork than their sibling New Year’s resolutions. 

Chantal Donnelly, a physical therapist and host of the new DVD “Pain Free At Work,” offers tips on making the most effective back to school resolutions.

“Come Labor Day, you may find it more difficult to push the pause button on stress than you did on vacation, but you can make changes that will decrease stress, neck pain, back pain, headaches and arm pain as well as improve your mood and productivity at work,” states Donnelly, the owner of Body Insight Inc., a company dedicated to injury prevention through exercise. Among her favorite back to work resolutions, Donnelly recommends committing to more micro-breaks while working at a computer. “Studies have shown that taking short, more regular breaks can decrease discomfort and increase typing speed (so there is no loss of productivity). Take 30-second long breaks every 45 minutes as well as longer, five-minute breaks every two hours. Computer rest break programs are a great way to keep tract of break times. These downloadable programs remind you when it is time to rest and will guide you through desk exercises during the longer break periods,” suggests Donnelly.

Here are some more tips for back to school and work resolutions from Chantal Donnelly:

“Learn how to type properly. If you are a two-fingered typist and have to constantly look down at the keys to write, you are placing excessive strain on your neck joints and are at risk for disc injuries. Try free, online typing lessons or check your local community college for classes.

“Get some form of physical activity DURING your workday. The brain is stimulated by exercise. Your creativity, problem solving and thinking skills will improve if you move. Try a brisk 10-minute walk during a meeting with a coworker, a game of basketball during lunch, 20 minutes of upper body weights while on a conference call… Whatever your preference and however you can fit it in, physical activity while at work will help you think better.

“Schedule a daily ‘no screen time’ period when you get home from work or school. This means no computers, video games or T.V. during a set time everyday. A two to three hour period works best and encourages face-to-face social interaction (necessary for stress management) and gives your eyes a needed break from staring at a monitor.”

About Chantal Donnelly

Chantal Donnelly, MPT is a faculty member and research advisor at Mount St. Mary’s College in Los Angeles. She is the host of two rehabilitation DVDs: “Strong Knees” (Gaiam) and “Pain Free At Work” (Body Insight Inc.). She has been featured in various magazines including Woman’s World and Woman’s Day Magazine. Chantal designed the Pain Free At Work program in order to give people a healthy solution to repetitive strain injuries, back pain and neck pain so common in the workplace. 

For more information on health and wellness in the workplace, computer rest break programs or back to school resolution tips, please visit www.bodyinsight.com or contact Chantal Donnelly at [email protected] or by phone 213.215.6778.

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Micro Identification Technologies (MIT): Independent Testing, Manufacturing, Sales and Financing Goals Converge

Posted on August 31, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Micro Imaging Technology, Inc.

SAN CLEMENTE, CA–(Marketwire – August 31, 2010) –  Micro Identification Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB: MMTC) is a California-based public company that has developed, patented and produces a rapid microbial identification (ID) System that revolutionizes the bacteria ID process and can annually save thousands of lives and tens of millions of healthcare dollars. The MIT 1000 System identifies bacteria in minutes, not days, and at significant cost per test savings when compared to any conventional method — it is not reliant on chemical or biological agents, conventional processing, fluorescent tags, gas chromatography or DNA analysis — requiring only clean water and a sample of the unknown bacteria. Revenues for all rapid testing methods exceed $5 billion annually — with food safety accounting for over $3 billion — having expanded at a rate of 9.2 percent annually since 1998. Current growth projections are at 10.2 percent annually reaching $6.2 billion by 2013 and driven by major health, safety and homeland security issues.

MIT, to meet this growing demand, announces today that it has made significant manufacturing progress since its initiation of a manufacturing alliance with OSI Optoelectronics (OSIO), a subsidiary of OSI Systems, to produce the MIT 1000 System. OSIO has manufacturing facilities in California, Malaysia and India. “We are pleased to work with MIT as we feel their innovative product will become a valuable tool to help prevent widespread bacterial contamination in the future,” stated Manoocher Mansouri, OSIO’s President.

“All of OSIO’s world class facilities are ISO 9001:2000 certified, FDA registered and GMP compliant making them the perfect company to fabricate MIT’s systems for food safety applications as well as planned pharmaceutical and clinical diagnostic applications,” stated John Ricardi, MIT’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. Mr. Ricardi further added that “While we are predicting quantity deliveries of the MIT 1000 System by the end of this year, initially the systems will be built in OSIO’s California facility, as volume increases, fabrication will move to one of their lower cost overseas facilities enabling MIT to improve future profit margins.” For more information on OSI Systems, visit the company’s website at www.osi-systems.com

The MIT 1000 Systems, in limited production during this last year, have had several distinguished users, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Japanese Ministry of Food Safety, University Putra Malaysia and several local contract bioscience testing laboratories. MIT’s Chairman Michael Brennan stated, “We have a small and growing backlog, are in discussions with several potential customers and are on track with this year’s goal to begin quantity deliveries by year’s end, and in turn need to increase our system support and microbiological research capabilities in conjunction with helping improve the food industry’s safety capabilities.”

To fund these activities, MIT has entered into a three-year $5,000,000 equity agreement with the Boston-based private equity firm, Dutchess Capital — the underlying S-1 Registration Statement was recently approved by the Securities Exchange Commission (SEC). MIT’s Chief Executive Officer, Michael Brennan, stated, “We have been very pleased working with Dutchess which has an excellent track record in the investment banking industry and has been a leading provider of private equity for over 10 years. Their successful background was the primary reason we selected them to be one of our partners.”

Chris Quin, Dutchess Vice President of business development stated, “We are excited to work with MIT as they continue to execute their business plan, develop further applications and increase market penetration of their laser-based, rapid microbial identification technology.” For more information on Dutchess Capital, visit the firm’s website at www.dutchesscapital.com

About Micro Identification Technologies:

The MIT 1000 System can identify bacteria in less than five minutes after culturing at a cost of less than 10 cents per test and is a certified AOAC Research Institute (RI) test method of Listeria, one of three bacteria (the others are Salmonella and E.coli) that are responsible for most of the worldwide food contamination events. The Company is in the process of preparing the MIT 1000 System to become AOAC RI certified later this year for the presence of all “three” bacteria with a single mouse click. The AOAC RI Report and Certification are available from the Company. www.aoac.org 

Further, MIT has demonstrated the ability to detect and identify, within several minutes, the microbes Escherichia coli, Listeria, Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, MRSA and other pathogenic bacteria. MIT recently performed over 300 tests for the identification of these contaminants and scored over 95 percent in accuracy. The System’s database currently enables the identification of over twenty species of bacteria and is easily expandable. This identification process has also been verified by North American Science Associates, Inc. (NAMSA), an independent, internationally recognized bioscience testing laboratory. The NAMSA Test Report is available from the Company and, in MIT’s opinion, documents the accuracy, speed and cost effectiveness of the MIT System over conventional processes. www.namsa.com

Please visit our website: www.micro-identification.com

This release contains statements that are forward-looking in nature. Statements that are predictive in nature, that depend upon or refer to future events or conditions or that include words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” and similar expressions are forward-looking statements. These statements are made based upon information available to the Company as of the date of this release, and we assume no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results could differ materially from our current expectations. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to dependence on suppliers; short product life cycles and reductions in unit selling prices; delays in development or shipment of new products; lack of market acceptance of our new products or services; inability to continue to develop competitive new products and services on a timely basis; introduction of new products or services by major competitors; our ability to attract and retain qualified employees; inability to expand our operations to support increased growth; and declining economic conditions, including a recession. These and other factors and risks associated with our business are discussed from time to time within our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, referencing: “MMTC”

CONTACT:
Michael Brennan
Chairman
Email: Email Contact
Telephone: (805) 557-0614

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Fly for MS to Embark on a Record-Making 60-Day, 29,000-Mile Trans-Atlantic Journey for Multiple Sclerosis Awareness

Posted on August 31, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Fly For MS

Fly for MS Is the Largest Scale MS Event Ever Organized and the Longest Humanitarian Flight Ever Undertaken

NEW YORK, NY–(Marketwire – August 31, 2010) –  On August 31st Fly for MS takes off from New York on a thrilling humanitarian mission to 30 countries in North America, Europe and Asia where the team will fly MS patients for treatment, and share the joy of flying with more than 100 people with MS to raise awareness for the challenges faced by over 2.1 million fighting this debilitating disease.

Fewer than 300 have flown a small plane for such a distance, and none for a humanitarian mission, compared to over 4,000 people who successfully climbed Mount Everest.

The mission will debut with a flight above Manhattan with Tom Clyne of New York, a representative from the U.S. National MS Society suffering from MS.

“Using my cane, I’m reminded of my MS with every step I take. Being up in the air with Andrei and the Fly for MS team, I can be free, even for a few moments. It’s a wonderful and exciting project he’s undertaking to bring awareness to the challenges people with MS experience every day of their lives,” says Tom.

Fly for MS is the brainchild of pilot Andrei Floroiu, a former Wall Street investor focused on biotechnology companies. In his profession he realized from interviews with over 600 MS patients and doctors how little the public knows about MS and recognized the need for a unique event to inspire compassion and action.

MS patients face harsh realities including lack of services due to budget cuts and limited availability of proper treatment. Ignorance of MS often forces people with MS to withdraw from society, hiding an illness poorly understood.

MS is a debilitating disease that affects 1.5 million people in North America and Europe alone. The symptoms of MS are cruel and include paralysis, speech impairment, and blindness. MS typically strikes people between the ages of 20 – 50 and renders 60% of those touched disabled over time. MS also affects an estimated 50,000 children globally.

With no known cause or cure in sight, awareness will move MS higher on government agendas, change employers’ attitudes and educate the world how to help. Awareness has a multiplier effect on future research funding.

“Through this unprecedented journey we aim to expose the contrast between the ultimate freedom of flying and the limitations of those living with MS, and reach new, broader audiences that other efforts have not been able to in the past,” says Floroiu.

“As a volunteer driven organization, it is bold, imaginative and independent projects such as Fly for MS that raise awareness for the challenges of living with MS and the funds needed to move us closer to a world free of the disease. The Society certainly encourages this heart-felt endeavor,” says Joyce Nelson, President and CEO of the U.S. National MS Society.

On certain legs of the tour, MS specialists, advocates, public figures and journalists will fly along.

Competitions are organized in certain countries for those that want a flight in the Fly for MS plane and the team will join fundraisers and awareness events across Europe.

Updates and photographs from the mission will be posted daily at www.flyms.org, Twitter, and Facebook. For more information visit: http://www.flyms.org/fly-for-multiple-sclerosis-schedule.html

Press Contact:
Maria Pulice
917-669-5312
Email Contact

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Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Metiscan Nationwide Teleconference Set for Tomorrow

Posted on August 31, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Metiscan, Inc

Company to Discuss Shareholder Points of Interest

DALLAS, TX–(Marketwire – August 31, 2010) –  Metiscan, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: MTIZ) is pleased to announce that the Company will be hosting a nationwide teleconference on Wednesday, September 1, 2010 at 4:15 PM (Eastern Daylight Time) and will discuss points of interest that affect Metiscan and its shareholders. The Company will be discussing its recent operational accomplishments that have transpired over the previous six months as well as providing insight into objectives Metiscan has outlined for the near term.

The nationwide teleconference will be hosted and moderated by Marc Jablon, CEO of Big Apple Consulting USA. The featured speakers for Metiscan will be Bryan Scott, President, CEO & Director, Janine Frieh, CFO & Director, and Brian Hart, COO & Director.

Space is limited on the call-in lines, therefore in order to participate please call 407-389-5900 and ask for investor relations to make a reservation. If you have a particular question for Mr. Scott, Ms. Frieh or Mr. Hart, please email questions in advance to [email protected].

About Metiscan, Inc.

Metiscan, Inc. (Metiscan), (PINKSHEETS: MTIZ), is the parent company of a portfolio of enterprises with operations in healthcare, healthcare IT, mobile technology and employment services. Metiscan manages all aspects of its subsidiaries and is currently pursuing acquisitions that complement its subsidiaries’ operations. Metiscan’s subsidiaries include FirstView EHR, Inc., Taptopia, Inc., Schuylkill Open MRI, Inc., Shoreline Employment Services, Inc. For more information visit www.metiscan.com

Safe Harbor Statement: Certain of the statements made in this press release constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 27E of the Securities Act of 1934. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other unknown factors that could cause Metiscan’s actual results to be materially different from the historical results or from any future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Statements contained in this release that are not historical facts may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. In addition to statements that explicitly describe such risks and uncertainties, readers are urged to consider statements labeled with the terms “believes,” “belief,” “intends,” “anticipates” or “plans” to be uncertain and forward-looking. The Company does not intend to update any of the forward-looking statements after the date of this release to conform these statements to actual results or to changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law.

Contact:

Investor Relations
1 407-389-5900
Email Contact

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Interbit Data Moves Up Ranking on Inc. 5000 — the Annual Exclusive List of America’s Fastest Growing Private Companies

Posted on August 31, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Interbit Data

Healthcare IT Solutions Provider Increases Three-Year Sales Growth to Over 142%, Achieving No. 1902 on the 2010 Inc. 5000

NATICK, MA–(Marketwire – August 31, 2010) –  Interbit Data, a leading provider of software and services for improving healthcare efficiency, today announced it has been named to Inc. Magazine‘s exclusive list of the 5,000 fastest growing private companies in the United States for the second year in a row. The company ranked No. 1902 as a result of achieving over 142% growth from 2006 to 2009, a significant move up from its ranking of No. 2909 on the 2009 Inc. 5000 list. This growth places Interbit Data at No. 152 in the health industry ranking and No. 64 among Boston, MA area companies.

“Our continued growth during this economy is not only proof of our staying power, it is confirmation of the significant value our software delivers in terms of time and cost savings,” said Arthur Young, president of Interbit Data. “We are dedicated to helping healthcare providers improve the level of care by addressing their challenges with streamlining operations, distributing patient data and reports, and ensuring access to critical patient records during system downtimes.”

Since 1997, Interbit Data has sold its software solutions for improving operational efficiency to over 650 healthcare providers and organizations in the U.S., Canada and U.K. The company offers three types of solutions that contribute to increased productivity, reduced costs, and, ultimately, better and more consistent patient care:

  • Information distribution — automates the secure transfer of information over the Internet in multiple formats (print, fax, email or file), easily integrating it into physician practices’ electronic medical records (EMRs) using the industry standard HL7 format.
  • Business continuance — ensures up-to-date patient data is readily available in the event of a network or system outage.
  • Scheduling and workforce automation — automates manual scheduling, enabling organizations to easily implement a complex schedule and efficiently manage staff.

The 2010 Inc. 5000 serves as a unique illustration of the profound changes taking place in the U.S. economy. Despite the fact that most of this year’s measuring period of 2006-2009 took place during the latest recession, aggregate revenue among the companies on the list actually increased to $321.6 billion, up more than 50 percent from last year. The effects of the recession are seen, however, in the median three-year growth rate, which dropped to 96 percent from last year’s 126 percent.

This year’s Inc. 5000 employ a record 1.4 million people, up from one million on last year’s list. The Health sector is the top employer with 287,726 jobs, followed by Business Products & Services (230,066), Food & Beverage (108,344), Human Resources (107,924), and Retail (96,858).

The top five industries by total revenue are Business Products & Services ($84.7 billion), Health ($48.3 billion), Consumer Products & Services ($26.4 billion), Retail ($22.3 billion), and Government Services ($15.1 billion).

Complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, region, and other criteria, can be found on www.inc.com/5000.

Inc. 5000 Methodology
The 2010 Inc. 5000 is ranked according to percentage revenue growth when comparing 2006 to 2009. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by June 30, 2006. Additionally, they had to be based in the United States, privately held, for profit, and independent — not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies — as of December 31, 2009. (Since then, a number of companies on the list have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2006 is $80,000; the minimum for 2009 is $2 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons. The top 10 percent of companies on the list constitute the Inc. 500, now in its 29th year.

About Inc. Magazine
Founded in 1979 and acquired in 2005 by Mansueto Ventures LLC, Inc. (www.inc.com) is the only major business magazine dedicated exclusively to owners and managers of growing private companies that delivers real solutions for today’s innovative company builders. With a total paid circulation of 712,647, Inc. provides hands-on tools and market-tested strategies for managing people, finances, sales, marketing, and technology. Visit us online at Inc.com.

About Interbit Data
For more information about Interbit Data and its NetSolutions healthcare IT products, visit the company Website at www.interbitdata.com.

Contact:
Beth Bryant
508-786-3013
Email Contact

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Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Youth Invited to Audition for Recovery Acres Society’s presentation of Moscow Ballet’s SWAN LAKE

Posted on August 31, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

CALGARY, ALBERTA–(Marketwire – Aug. 31, 2010) – This Saturday, Recovery Acres (Calgary) Society and Moscow Ballet will host open auditions for Swan Lake on Saturday, September 4, 9:00AM at Ballet Classique, 176 Bedford Drive NE. The accepted applicants will perform on November 22 & 23 in Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Swan Lake at 7:30PM, at the EPCOR CENTRE’S Jack Singer Concert Hall.

Swan Lake auditions are for pre-professional ballet students, ages thirteen to sixteen with pointe experience. Twelve applicants will be chosen to dance in one scene of Swan Lake with the 40-strong professional, Russian trained cast. Applicants must dress in dance attire and be prepared to dance en pointe. For local information, contact Sara Lynne Dewer at (403) 245 4346.

Nataliya Miroshnyk, a Russian trained soloist with Moscow Ballet, will conduct the audition and work with the selected students in rehearsal at a later date. During her audition tour, she will work one-on-one with young dancers in Calgary, Medicine Hat, Regina, Saskatoon, Surrey, Winnipeg and Thunder Bay. Nataliya, a graduate from the well-respected Kiev Academic Choreographic School in Ukraine, trained under the honoured A.G. Kalchenko.

“Having Nataliya lead auditions is both exciting and inspirational,” says Sara Lynne Dewer, Ballet Classique’s director. “Not only does she expose dancers to authentic Russian form, but this opportunity epitomizes inclusive artistic collaboration – providing a flavour of local, amateur energy in this production, is a true gift for these children, and for audiences.”

The Moscow Ballet Canadian tour is presented by Recovery Acres (Calgary) Society, one of Canada’s most effective, non-profit, addiction treatment facilities. A portion of tour proceeds will support capital funding for the facility’s needed $10M expansion project.

As one of the most revered ballets in the world, Swan Lake premiered over a century ago in Russia and remains a timeless classic, expressing a range of human emotions accented by Tchaikovsky’s luminous score.

Ticket prices range from $45-$140 and are now available through www.epcorcentre.org.

To view promotional reel, please visit: Great Russian Swan Lake.

For more information on the Moscow Ballet Canadian Tour, please visit www.moscowballetcanada.com.

About Nataliya Miroshnyk – Visiting Ballet Mistress

Nataliya enjoyed a tremendous amount of post-graduate experience throughout the world during her time with the Odessa State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre. She was with the Company for almost twelve years and traveled to many countries including China, Japan, Germany, Lebanon and Finland. 

Nataliya also worked with La Classique, a well-known classical ballet troupe based in Moscow. Working with La Classique gave her the opportunity to perform in front of new audiences throughout the United Kingdom, Italy and Norway.

About Moscow Ballet – The Company

Moscow Ballet (est. 1993) is a Massachusetts-based touring company, whose roster features graduates of Perm, Yaganova, Moscow State Academic Choreographic and Kiev schools from Russia each year. Created by award-winning theatrical producer and Juilliard alumni, Akiva Talmi, the company tours upwards of 70 US cities per year, recently branching into a growing number of Canadian cities.

Through the Moscow Ballet’s Educational Outreach Program, “Celebrating Children: The Arts Can Make a Difference”, the company engages local children to audition and appear with professional dancers in the roles of cygnets, snowflakes and butterflies. www.nutcracker.com.

About Recovery Acres (Calgary) Society – Tour presenter & beneficiary

In partnership with the Moscow Ballet, Calgary-based Recovery Acres Society is raising $10 million dollars of capital funding to build a new alcohol and drug treatment facility for men. Once complete, the current building will be renovated to accommodate female clients. Wait lists are ever growing and the need, particularly for woman, is consistently on the rise.

Recovery Acres (Calgary) Society is a North American leader in the treatment of alcohol and drug addiction. Their proven Recovery Model serves as a best practices model for treatment facilities and clients from around the world. The affordability of its program opens the reality of rehabilitation to a broad spectrum of clientele. www.recoveryacres.org.

Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Sunshine Heart Announces First Minimally Invasive Thoracotomy Procedures Performed for the C-Pulse(R) Heart Assist System

Posted on August 31, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: SHC

Saint Luke’s Mid America Heart and Vascular Institute in Kansas City Successfully Implants Innovative Heart Failure Therapy through a Small Incision

MINNEAPOLIS, MN–(Marketwire – August 31, 2010) –  Sunshine Heart Inc., a global medical device company focused on innovative technologies for moderate heart failure, today announced that its C-Pulse® Heart Assist System has been successfully implanted using a minimally invasive thoracotomy procedure at Saint Luke’s Mid America Heart and Vascular Institute in Kansas City, MO. The C-Pulse System is the first known mechanical heart assist system to be implanted using a minimally invasive thoracotomy technique. The device was inserted through a small, pacemaker-like incision between the patient’s ribs, leaving the sternum intact. To date, thirteen patients have been implanted under Sunshine Heart’s existing worldwide C-Pulse study protocols. The FDA approved IDE feasibility study will include a total of 20 patients to evaluate the performance of this device for patients with moderate heart failure.

The C-Pulse Heart Assist System is designed to treat patients suffering from the debilitating effects of moderate heart failure caused by a failing left ventricle (the left heart chamber). The C-Pulse System features a unique balloon counterpulsation technology that is designed to assist the left ventricle by reducing the workload required to pump blood throughout the body. In addition, it increases blood flow to the coronary arteries. Combined, these potential benefits may help reverse the heart failure process or maintain the patient’s current condition, thereby preventing the need for later stage heart failure devices, such as left ventricular assist devices (LVADs), artificial hearts or transplants. 

“We are pleased to welcome Saint Luke’s Mid America Heart and Vascular Institute to our C-Pulse clinical trial,” said Dave Rosa, CEO of Sunshine Heart. “These latest procedures accomplish our goal of successfully implanting the C-Pulse System through a mini-thoracotomy surgical method. As we approach the end of our feasibility study, we are encouraged by the interest of our centers and we remain dedicated to developing this minimally invasive, cost-effective treatment that is intended to relieve the symptoms of moderate heart failure.”

Sanjeev Aggarwal, MD, Director of Mechanical Circulatory Support at Saint Luke’s Mid America Heart and Vascular Institute in Kansas City, Missouri, performed the procedures. In addition to performing the first minimally invasive thoracotomy C-Pulse procedures, Dr. Aggarwal has also successfully performed a minimally invasive hemi-sternotomy (mini-sternotomy) C-Pulse procedure at St. Luke’s Hospital.

“The C-Pulse Heart Assist System represents an important advance in the treatment of patients suffering from heart failure,” commented Dr. Aggarwal. “In our initial procedure last month, the clinical effects were dramatic, with an almost immediate improvement in cardiac performance and the patient’s functional status. I am very encouraged that we were able to perform our two subsequent implants utilizing a minimally invasive pacemaker-like incision, without dividing the sternum. This offers the opportunity to provide patients suffering from moderate heart failure with a means of mechanical circulatory support through a truly minimally invasive, low risk procedure with a short recovery period.”

“Today, there are few treatment options for the millions of Class III/IVa moderate heart failure patients who have achieved the maximum benefits of drug and pacemaker therapy yet still suffer from symptoms such as shortness of breath and reduced mobility,” said Dr. Andrew Kao, Medical Director of Heart Transplantation at St. Luke’s Mid America Heart Institute. “I am very pleased that the new C-Pulse therapy is being studied at St. Luke’s Hospital as we believe this device can make a tremendous difference for these patients who have limited treatment options.”

The C-Pulse System is an earlier intervention than other mechanical therapies, such as LVADs. This device does not make direct contact with patient’s blood and it can be turned on or off at any time allowing patients intervals of freedom to perform certain activities. The C-Pulse System can also be implanted as a minimally invasive procedure, thereby potentially reducing procedural time, hospital stays, overall cost and patient risk as compared to a traditional sternotomy.

Sunshine Heart’s FDA approved IDE study is available to men and women between the ages of 18 to 75 who suffer from Class III/ambulatory Class IV heart failure and for whom standard drug therapy has failed. The study monitors each patient’s performance with the C-Pulse System at one-month, three-month and six-month intervals to assess risks and potential benefits. Each patient’s physical endurance, quality of life and cardiac performance will also be specifically monitored.

About the C-Pulse Heart Assist System
The C-Pulse Heart Assist System uses proprietary balloon counterpulsation technology to increase the amount of blood pumped by the heart and to reduce the workload on the heart. The C-Pulse System is implanted in the patient’s chest through a sternotomy or through a small incision when performed as a minimally invasively procedure. During the procedure, there is no need to place the patient on a heart-lung machine as the patient’s heart remains beating continuously.

Once implanted, the C-Pulse cuff is positioned on the outside of the patient’s ascending aorta above the aortic valve. An ECG sensing lead is then attached to the heart to determine timing for cuff inflation and deflation in synchronization with the heartbeat. The C-Pulse cuff and electrical leads are connected to a single line that is run through the abdomen to connect to a power driver outside the body. Because the C-Pulse System remains outside the blood system, there is potentially less risk of blood clots and stroke in comparison to other mechanical devices that reside or function in the bloodstream.

About Sunshine Heart
Sunshine Heart (ASX: SHC), a global medical device company focused on innovative technologies for the treatment of moderate heart failure, is commercializing the C-Pulse® Heart Assist System, a minimally invasive, implantable, non-blood contacting, heart assist therapy for the treatment of moderate heart failure. The C-Pulse System relieves the symptoms of heart failure through the use of counterpulsation technology which enables an increase in cardiac output, an increase in coronary blood flow and a reduction in the heart’s pumping load. The Company has received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to conduct a 20-patient U.S. clinical trial with the C-Pulse® System and the study has achieved more than fifty percent enrollment as of August 2010. Sunshine Heart, Inc. is a Delaware-based Corporation headquartered in Minneapolis with a subsidiary presence in Australia. The Company has been listed on the ASX since September 2004. For more information, please visit www.sunshineheart.com.

Media Contact: U.S.
Carmen Caricchio
CoActive Health Communications
(415) 621-6626
Email Contact

Media Contact: Australia
Andrew Geddes
CoActive Health Communications
+61 (408) 677 734
Email Contact

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Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Rucker Demonstrates Value of Lean Six Sigma in Healthcare; Helps ISH, Inc. Impact Efficiencies

Posted on August 31, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Rucker and Associates

RALEIGH, NC–(Marketwire – August 31, 2010) – Healthcare experts got a dose of Lean Six Sigma principles when Rucker and Associates presented its best industry practices to ISH, Inc. to help them better understand the power of Lean Six Sigma for efficiency and productivity. Florida-based ISH, Inc. has developed hundreds of quality improvement initiatives at many of the nation’s leading healthcare organizations. Working with Rucker has been their first exposure to Lean Six Sigma principles in action.

ISH, Inc. is a leading provider of office processing and time management software for the healthcare industry. Bonnie Smith of Rucker and Associates handled the presentation to administrators at ISH, Inc., providing them with information on ways to integrate Lean Six Sigma principles into everyday operations to improve performance. 

According to Smith, the strategy at ISH, Inc. focused on lead-time to reduce defects and improve the company’s workflow. “Finding ways to improve what we refer to as ‘profit-busters’ will not only decrease waiting times and improve patient care but save a healthcare organization money,” she said.

Smith’s seven profit-busters that plague the industry include: waiting, over-processing, over-production, indecision, hand-offs, loop-backs and excess inventory.

She uses Rucker case examples to explain: “Hospitals that use Lean Six Sigma have saved $16 million through efficiency improvements that include: reducing emergency room wait times by one hour, reducing turnaround times for patient tests from 74 to 40 minutes, lowering in-patient registration questions from 39 to six, and more timely accounts receivables,” she said.

“Controlling these efficiencies helps healthcare organizations save valuable time and resources, which impacts the bottom line,” said Smith, an efficiency expert who played a pivotal role in creating the synthesis of Lean principles and Six Sigma tools now known as Lean Six Sigma.

Healthcare organizations are more actively using Lean processes to improve clinical trials and supply chain management. According to Rucker statistics, Lean Six Sigma has helped hundreds of healthcare organizations improve quality measures and increase bottom line profitability.

Rucker and Associates is a high-performance consultancy dedicated to helping companies discover dramatic new efficiencies using Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma improvement methodologies. Rucker’s hands-on mentoring process with clients produces dramatic results — training teams to accelerate change and implement continuous improvement. Every Rucker project features an unconditional guarantee. http://ruckerassociates.com/.

Headquartered in Fairfield, N.J., ISH, Inc. is a leading national provider of professional services for healthcare, including: Perioperative, Sterile Processing, ED, EMR, Supply Chain, Finance, HR/PR, Time and Attendance, Scheduling, Document Imaging, Interim Management. ISH has delivered business improvement solutions and information technology implementations to prominent healthcare providers throughout the nation since 1989. With a staff of more than 150 professionals, an extensive best practice library developed from over 500 clients, and a powerful program management methodology, ISH is positioned to deliver the results you need when you need them. http://www.ishinc.com.

Contact:
Scott Misner
(919) 235-0940

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Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

Riverside Medical Center Provided Millions in Community Benefits

Posted on August 31, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Riverside Medical Center

KANKAKEE, IL–(Marketwire – August 31, 2010) –  Riverside Medical Center, whose mission is to meet the health and well-being needs of the communities it serves, provided more than $36.7 million in community benefit in 2009. This high quality southern Chicago suburbs healthcare provider receives no payment for a wide variety of vital programs and services devoted to individuals and families through the medical center’s service area. As one of the top hospitals in Illinois, Riverside is committed to making quality healthcare available to everyone, regardless of their economic condition. 

The income, employment and insurance status of residents of Kankakee County results in the hospital caring for a large number of patients who are uninsured or underinsured, or for whom public program reimbursement is inadequate to cover costs. Of the $36.7 million of community benefit that Riverside Medical Center provided in 2009, over $18.1 million of the total covered costs was for subsidized health services. That included Medicaid services and community health centers in Kankakee, Momence and Hopkins Park. This figure also includes New Life Center, ambulance services, health screenings, physician recruitment and health care education, among other services.

As a nonprofit organization, after paying expenses, Riverside reinvests any excess revenue back in the organization to pay for capital improvements. Riverside also allocates portion of this money to services that benefit patients: free care for patients who cannot pay, subsidized care for patients whose government insurance does not cover all of Riverside’s costs, and critical medical services that operate at a financial loss but are necessary for the overall health and well-being of the community.

Riverside also acts as an economic engine for Kankakee County and the surrounding areas like southern Will County healthcare. Not only do they provide care for those who are not financially able to afford it, but they also help create more jobs and economic growth in our community. Riverside not only has a significant impact on the health and welfare of residents, but also has a large impact on the local economy, both of which are definitely for the better. If you are in need of any sort of medical services, Riverside Medical Center is here to make sure you get the best care provided anywhere.

To learn more about the quality services offered by Riverside Medical Center, visit www.RiversideMC.net or call (815) 933-1671.

Media Contact:
Carl Maronich
815-935-7256
Email Contact

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Filed Under: Medical And Healthcare

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