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Computer Zone Becomes the First VAR to Offer Certified EHR Products for Both Providers and Hospitals

Posted on October 7, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Computer Zone

Extensive Product Line Delivers an End-to-End Certified Solution to Organizations That Include Both In-Patient Facilities and Physician Practices

ROCKINGHAM, NC–(Marketwire – October 7, 2010) –  Computer Zone, a leading provider of software and services for medical organizations, announced today that it is the first and only Value Added Reseller (VAR) able to sell and support certified complete EHR products for both physician practices and hospitals. Because of its extensive product line, Computer Zone can deliver an end-to-end solution that can help both hospitals and their associated practices comply with Meaningful Use requirements and work toward receiving funds under the ARRA stimulus program.

Under the ARRA stimulus program, separate certification programs have been established for hospitals and medical practices or “eligible providers.” In addition, EHR products can be certified as “Complete EHRs” that satisfy all certification criteria or can be certified as “EHR Modules” that meet some but not all of the criteria. 

To qualify for ARRA stimulus funds, both hospitals and providers must implement a certified complete EHR or a combination of appropriate certified EHR modules and comply with “Meaningful Use” guidelines. Hospitals and physicians practices that meet these requirements can receive substantial financial incentives.

Computer Zone delivers complete end-to-end solutions that meet all the ARRA requirements for both hospitals and medical practices. These solutions include:

  • ChartAccess® EHR from Prognosis Health Information Systems for hospitals
  • SuiteMed™ IMS from SuiteMed, LLC for the ambulatory environment
  • Expert technical support, training and implementation services to support hospitals, doctors and staff members.

“Many organizations, hospitals and their associated physician practices are looking for one source to meet their EHR needs, both in-patient and ambulatory. At the same time, they want to make sure that they are using a certified EHR that will help them qualify for government financial incentives,” said Sandy Huggins, vice president of Computer Zone. “Computer Zone is the first and only VAR in the U.S. that can sell and support certified EHR software solutions for hospitals and their associated physician practices.”

About Computer Zone
Computer Zone is a comprehensive provider of technology solutions to medical organizations of all sizes and specialties from small medical offices to large clinics and mid-sized hospitals. Based in North Carolina and now serving medical organizations in all 50 states, Computer Zone delivers billing services, electronic medical records, practice management, electronic prescribing and ancillary medical applications and supports them with a range of services including custom development, training and on-going technical assistance. The company delivers these solutions using a proven and integrated implementation methodology and is dedicated to making medical organizations more successful. For more information, visit www.computerzone.net

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

CONMED Corporation to Announce Third Quarter 2010 Financial Results on October 28, 2010

Posted on October 6, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: CONMED Corporation

UTICA, NY–(Marketwire – October 6, 2010) –  CONMED Corporation (NASDAQ: CNMD) announced today that it expects to report third quarter 2010 financial results before the market opens on Thursday, October 28, 2010, and will also hold a conference call live over the Internet at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time that same day. This webcast can be accessed from CONMED’s web site at www.conmed.com. Replays of the call will be made available through November 5, 2010.

The Company anticipates that forward-looking information and additional material details related to third quarter 2010 earnings and the Company’s expectations on a prospective basis may be discussed during the call. Such forward-looking information may involve risks and uncertainties such as those described in the Company’s SEC filings.

CONMED is a medical technology company with an emphasis on surgical devices and equipment for minimally invasive procedures and 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 our medical devices. Headquartered in Utica, New York, the Company’s 3,300 employees distribute its products worldwide from several manufacturing locations.

CONTACT:

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

FD
Brian Ritchie
212-850-5600

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Imaging3 Executes Securities Purchase Agreement for Sale of Common Stock and Warrants for $1 Million

Posted on October 5, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Imaging3, Inc.

BURBANK, CA–(Marketwire – October 5, 2010) –  Imaging3™, Inc. (OTCBB: IMGG), developer of a breakthrough medical imaging device that produces 3D medical diagnostic images of virtually any part of the human body in real-time, announced today that the company entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement with two institutional investors for the sale of common stock and warrants for $1 million.

The terms of the securities purchase agreement include the sale of 4,587,157 shares of common stock at 20% discount to Friday’s closing price ($0.218). The warrants include: (i) Series A Warrants, which are immediately exercisable for a period of 5 years into 4,587,157 shares at $0.2725 per share; (ii) Series B Warrants, which are immediately exercisable for a period of up to 18 months into 4,587,157 shares at $0.218 per share and (iii) Series C Warrants, which are immediately exercisable for a period of 5 years into 4,587,157 shares at $0.2725 per share but only to the extent that the Series B Warrants are exercised and only in the same percentage that the Series B Warrants are exercised. All of such warrants contain customary adjustments for corporate events such as reorganizations, splits, dividends, and the exercise prices of all such warrants are subject to full-ratchet anti-dilution adjustments in the event of additional issuances of common stock below the exercise price then in effect.

“This transaction will provide Imaging3 with sufficient working capital for the next year,” stated the company’s Chairman/CEO Dean Janes.

The completion of the offering is subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions and is expected to close on or before October 14, 2010. The net proceeds from this offering will be used solely for working capital purposes. In the securities purchase agreement, the company agreed not to use the proceeds to satisfy any debt, to redeem any of the company’s outstanding securities or with respect to any litigation involving the company.

The company will also provide customary resale registration rights in connection with the offering.

Wharton Capital Partners, Ltd., a New York based investment banking firm, acted as the placement agent for the company in this offering.

The shares of common stock and warrants being sold in the placement have not been registered under the Securities Act and may not be offered or sold without registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or under an applicable exemption.

About Imaging3

Imaging3, Inc., founded in 1993, is a leading provider of advanced technology medical imaging devices. The Company has developed a breakthrough medical imaging device that produces 3D medical diagnostic images of virtually any part of the human body in real-time. Because these 3D images are instantly constructed in real-time, they can be used for any current or new medical procedures in which multiple frames of reference are required to perform medical procedures on or in the human body. Visit the company’s website at http://www.imaging3.com for more information.

Safe Harbor Statement

Matters discussed in this press release contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in this press release, the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “may,” “intend,” “expect” and similar expressions identify such forward-looking statements. Actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those contemplated, expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements contained herein. These forward-looking statements are based largely on the expectations of the Company and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. These include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties associated with: the impact of economic, competitive and other factors affecting the Company and its operations, markets, product, and distributor performance, technological obsolescence, competition from other medical instrument(s) and imaging companies, lack of capital, unexpected costs, failure or delay of FDA approval, absence of revenue, the impact on the national and local economies resulting from an economic recession or terrorist actions, and U.S. actions subsequently; unavailability of financing for the Company or its customers, product malfunction and potential product liability claims, and other factors detailed in reports filed by the Company.

Contact:
Imaging3, Inc.
Investor Relations
800-900-9729

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Healthcare Information Solution Provider Enclarity Hires Chief Financial Officer

Posted on October 5, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Enclarity, Inc.

Warren Gouk to Lead Business Development for Further Expansion Into Healthcare and Information Service Marketplaces and Cultivate Relationships for Strategic Partnership Building

ALISO VIEJO, CA–(Marketwire – October 5, 2010) – Enclarity, Inc., a leading healthcare information solutions company, today announced the appointment of Warren Gouk as chief financial officer and head of business development. Gouk will oversee all of the company’s financial strategy, financial reporting, along with leading the company’s business and corporate development efforts. He joins Enclarity from Cascadia Capital, where he served as managing director and practice leader across various teams within the company’s investment banking practice.

“This has been a year of tremendous expansion for Enclarity, which included financial investments, strategic partnerships, significant new clients and industry recognition, and we foresee this growth accelerating,” said Sean Downs, chief executive officer, Enclarity. “By bringing Warren on board, we now have the expertise in place to help guide Enclarity into the next phase of development. His extensive experience building strategic relationships will help us both build and maintain partnerships with companies like Emdeon, along with expanding our focus into other healthcare and information service markets.”

At Cascadia Capital, Gouk built the firm’s physical security and Internet digital media teams into a top-three nationally ranked investment banking practice. He has spent his career advising private and public high-growth companies in the healthcare technology and data services markets. In addition, Gouk worked for five years with PricewaterhouseCoopers as a financial auditor to middle market companies across North America and as a strategic advisor to governments in Central America and the Caribbean pursuing privatizations and project finance transactions. Gouk holds a finance degree from the University of British Columbia, and has earned the Chartered Accountant (CA) and Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designations.

About Enclarity
Enclarity® solves healthcare’s provider information problem. The company delivers correct, current and comprehensive provider information solutions by blending thousands of data sources, advanced analytics and healthcare expertise. As a result, its clients improve results in many areas, including claims processing, provider directories, regulatory compliance and market analysis. Named one of the Top 100 private technology companies in North America by Red Herring magazine and awarded the Global Healthcare Information Technology Excellence Award by Frost & Sullivan, Enclarity is headquartered in Aliso Viejo, Calif. For more information, visit www.enclarity.com.

Contacts

Company:
Brian Teeter
Enclarity, Inc.
949-614-8115
Email Contact

Media:
Theresa Dreike
Remarx Media Inc.
714-706-0433 ext. 102
Email Contact

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

FireHost Captures Managed Hosting Market for Healthcare Organizations; Major Academic Medical Centers Select FireHost as Secure Hosting Partner

Posted on October 5, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: FireHost, Inc.

FireHost Will Protect the Universities’ Critical Medical Websites and Applications

DALLAS, TX–(Marketwire – October 5, 2010) – The Biostatistics Center at Johns Hopkins University and the Department of Surgery at Duke University School of Medicine have selected FireHost, the leading secure, managed hosting provider, as their official Web host for special projects within their health care divisions. The websites and applications that FireHost will protect contain critical, confidential patient and research data that must remain secure.

Both Universities selected FireHost after conducting rigorous searches for a secure hosting provider that could achieve and maintain HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) requirements. Multiple layers of prevention protect every client within FireHost’s network, and the Web host is well versed in the additional precautions necessary to protect healthcare data for Duke and Johns Hopkins. Enterprise-grade Web hosting hardware including application level firewalls and DoS/DDoS mitigation devices are key components in providing a safe, HIPAA compliant-ready hosting environment for the Universities’ critical data.

“Medical organizations realize a high probability for cybercrime exists, and they must take every precaution possible to prevent a data breach. FireHost has built a reputation among healthcare organizations for protecting sensitive information online,” said Chris Drake, founder and CEO of FireHost. “We make it our priority to ward off vulnerabilities so Duke, Johns Hopkins, and all of our clients in healthcare can focus on what they do best, providing sophisticated research and patient care.”

Duke’s Center for Metabolic and Weight Loss Surgery has a Web application that stores patient data used to aid in the management and care throughout the program. James Alexander, systems analyst with the Duke Center for Metabolic and Weight Loss Surgery affirms, “There has never been a point in time in the field of healthcare service delivery that protection of patient information and privacy has been more important. Continually reviewing all of our systems and protections to make sure that we are well protected is yet another illustration of our primary commitment to our patients.”

The Biostatistics Center at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health was looking for secure hosting for their Web-based data collection application. The application collects health research data that requires a high level of security and scalability, and FireHost was the clear choice. “We evaluated many providers and FireHost was our top choice to meet our secure hosting needs,” says Andre Hackman, faculty research associate of the Biostatistics Center. “Their support is the best we’ve ever worked with and the levels of security that they provide are unsurpassed. We have a great relationship with FireHost and I don’t hesitate to recommend FireHost to colleagues that are looking for secure hosting.”

FireHost has grown 150 percent in the first three quarters of 2010, and counts healthcare IT as one of its fastest growing segments along with Ecommerce and security companies. FireHost is an attractive, affordable alternative to traditional dedicated hosting. Medical SaaS providers and other professional services organizations that specialize in services that collect, store, and access protected patient information online have found the price, scalability, and protection they need with FireHost.

About FireHost, Inc.
FireHost, Inc. is a Dallas, Texas-based secure managed hosting company that delivers enterprise-quality hosting solutions. Specializing in protecting Web sites with compliance and high traffic needs, FireHost makes hacker prevention a standard part of every hosting plan. Advanced security combined with a comprehensive portfolio of hosting solutions helps FireHost protect companies of all sizes from threats to their Web sites, Web applications, and other valuable data.

Helpful links:
www.firehost.com
www.fireblog.com
Twitter.com/firehost

Contact:
Aly Saxe
Ubiquity Public Relations
Email Contact
602.268.6849

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Detroit Dentist, Bright Side Dental, Offer Scholarships to Deserving Michigan Students

Posted on October 5, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Bright Side Dental

A Local Michigan Dentist Gives Back to the Student Community by Helping Out With College Expenses

ROYAL OAK, MI–(Marketwire – October 5, 2010) –  Bright Side Dental, a local Detroit dentist, has established the Bright Future Scholarship Program to assist deserving local high school students in obtaining a college education. Applicants must be a graduating senior with a 3.0 cumulative grade point average or higher and be involved in extracurricular activities. Qualified applicants will live within Bright Side Dental service areas of Sterling Heights, Royal Oak, Livonia, and Canton, Michigan.

“We understand the importance of education and giving back to the community, and we are proud to offer the Bright Future Scholarship to deserving students,” said Josh Gershonowicz, Vice President of Public Relations & Marketing for Bright Side Dental.

Each applicant is required to complete a one page essay in response to the topic: Explain the importance of maintaining good dental hygiene and how poor dental hygiene can affect your overall health.

Essays will be judged by a panel of dental health experts and two students will be selected to receive a $500 scholarship that can be used toward college expenses. Student’s essays must be submitted by April 15th, 2011.

For more information and for how to apply, contact your local Bright Side Dental office or visit us online at http://www.brightsidedental.com/about-us/bright-future-scholarship/

About Bright Side Dental

Bright Side Dental is a member of the American Dental Association, Michigan Dental Association and Special Care Dentistry Association and offers a full array of dental, cosmetic and orthodontic services.

For more information about Bright Side Dental or to schedule an appointment, visit our website at www.BrightSideDental.com or call us at 1-800-PAINLESS.

Contact:
Tatum Rucker
Public Relations Assistant
Bright Side Dental
(248)629-1821

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Ziegler Announces Transaction Closing for Bronson Methodist Hospital

Posted on October 4, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Ziegler

CHICAGO, IL–(Marketwire – October 4, 2010) –  Ziegler (PINKSHEETS: ZGCO), a specialty investment banking firm serving hospital and healthcare systems clients since 1928, announced the successful transaction closing for Bronson Methodist Hospital (Bronson). Bronson is a 405-licensed bed general acute care hospital located in Kalamazoo, Michigan; Bronson is a part of the Bronson Healthcare Group, Inc.

Ziegler has served as Bronson’s investment banker for over seven years. During the financial crisis of 2008, Ziegler worked diligently with Bronson to reduce the risk profile of its capital structure by removing counterparty risk to financial institutions and by reducing the risks associated with variable rate indebtedness. In early 2010, Ziegler presented the opportunity for Bronson to further reduce its balance sheet risk. The Series 2010 transaction included the conversion of the outstanding insured variable rate demand obligations to fixed-rate bonds totaling $75 million that carried Assured Guaranty insurance. By converting this series to fixed- rate bonds, Bronson was able to preserve the value of its bond insurance policy and minimize its capital costs. The second series, which totaled $114.26 million, was structured as unenhanced securities and carried an “A2” rating from Moody’s. In conjunction with the fixed-rate conversion, which reduced counterparty, basis, remarketing, and acceleration risks, Bronson terminated corresponding fixed-payer swaps to further reduce its balance sheet risk profile.

John Hanley, Ziegler’s newly promoted head of its healthcare practice, commented, “Bronson offers an excellent example of how Ziegler works with its clients to identify creative financing solutions that best meet their organization’s short- and long-term financial goals.”

For more information about Ziegler and this transaction, please visit us at www.Ziegler.com.

About Ziegler:
The Ziegler Companies, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: ZGCO) together with its affiliates (Ziegler) is a specialty investment bank with unique expertise in complex credit structures and advisory services. Nationally, Ziegler is ranked as one of the leading investment banking firms in its specialty sectors of healthcare, senior living, religion and education finance, as well as corporate finance and FHA/HUD. Headquartered in Chicago, IL with regional and branch offices throughout the U.S., Ziegler creates tailored financial solutions including bond financing, advisory, private placement, seed capital, M&A, risk and asset management. Ziegler serves institutional and individual investors through its wealth management and capital markets distribution channels.

Certain comments in this news release represent forward-looking statements made pursuant to the provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, in particular, the overall financial health of the securities industry, the strength of the healthcare sector of the U.S. economy and the municipal securities marketplace, the ability of the Company to underwrite and distribute securities, the market value of mutual fund portfolios and separate account portfolios advised by the Company, the volume of sales by its retail brokers, the outcome of pending litigation, and the ability to attract and retain qualified employees.

Leslie Lynch
312 596 1630
Email Contact

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

PacMed Clinic Off & Running With Versus Advantages RTLS

Posted on October 4, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Versus Technology, Inc.

TRAVERSE CITY, MI–(Marketwire – October 4, 2010) –  Versus Technology, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: VSTI) is pleased to announce that another phenomenal customer, Pacific Medical Center (PacMed), is now realizing the benefits of the Versus Advantages™ Real-time Locating System (RTLS). In April, Canyon Park Clinic, PacMed’s newest multi-specialty clinic in Bothell, WA, implemented the Versus Advantages™ Clinic solution to reduce patient visit times and improve the overall patient experience.

Taking time in September to share the Advantages of RTLS in Clinical Environments at Microsoft’s Health Users Group Exchange 2010, Brett Daniel, MD, Medical Director at Canyon Park Clinic announced that not only did the clinic achieve its primary goal to reduce overall average patient visit times from 70 to 46 minutes, it also reduced phone calls, demonstrated outstanding patient satisfaction scores, and is expected to promote material revenues. An impressive success, especially considering the RTLS was implemented only six months ago when the clinic opened.

“We were, and continue to be, focused on customer service, and the patient is our customer,” explains Linda Eremic, Director of Primary Care Services for PacMed. “Per our experience as both consumers and patients, we know that it makes sense to ensure that the customer is never left needlessly waiting–not in a waiting room, not in an exam room, not on the phone and not for a return call. Versus helps us manage our time and our patients to ensure that we can deliver the customer service our patients expect and deserve.” 

With up to 110 personnel on site and 300 patients currently moving in and about the Canyon Park Clinic‘s 30,000 sq. ft. each day, the Versus’ RTLS was sure to deliver benefit just in communicating the locations of patients, staff and equipment. However, for Versus, providing location information is just a necessary stepping stone to true clinical automation. PacMed is experiencing increased efficiencies as a result of:

  1. Knowing patient status and room availability. (Communicated simultaneously to all care providers and updated automatically.)
  2. No longer “rooming” patients. (Patients self-room, similar to checking in at a hotel.)
  3. Reports to monitor Key Performance Indicators and measure results.
  4. Alerts to ensure that providers and MAs see the patient at the right time, with the right information.

Dr. Daniel notes, “Every decision we made when designing the new clinic was centered on improving the patient experience. With Versus, what we didn’t expect is how great an impact it would also have on staff. Our staff is more productive, less stressed and patients have greater access to all of us. On the technology side, even our upcoming EMR implementation will be made easier by virtue of having the RTLS. As we anticipate greater distribution of the Versus system, our clinic has really become a model for how to do it well.”

“We really appreciate when our clients are willing to discuss the advantages of RTLS,” says HT Snowday, Versus’ CTO. “PacMed is unique in that they understood from the start that implementing RTLS wasn’t about simply tracking assets or choosing the technology that was easiest to install. It’s about delivering real, transformational change to patients and those who deliver patient care. To do so, facilities have to look beyond the locating technology to determine whether the solution offers clinical-quality data and whether the vendor understands the locating metrics as they relate to healthcare.”

Dr. Daniel will be presenting Canyon Park Clinic’s use case and outcomes with RTLS through an AHA Solutions, Inc. webinar on Wednesday, October 6, 2010. Those interested in learning more may register here: AHA Signature Learning Series – Patient Flow. 

About Pacific Medical Centers
Pacific Medical Centers is a private not-for-profit, multi-specialty health-care network of 10 locations with 140 primary and specialty care providers. Its 10 locations are in Puget Sound neighborhoods in Beacon Hill, Bothell, downtown Seattle, Northgate, Federal Way, First Hill, Lynnwood, Northgate, Renton and Totem Lake. Pacific Medical Centers serves patients with commercial insurance, retired military and their families, family members of active-duty personnel, as well as the underserved in our community.

About Versus Technology, Inc.
Established in 1988, Versus Technology, Inc. specializes in real-time location systems (RTLS) for healthcare. Used for enterprise patient tracking, bed management, asset tracking, and nurse call automation, Versus Advantages™ improves patient flow and documentation of caregiver and patient interactions, while enhancing communication and efficiency. Exclusively endorsed by the American Hospital Association, the Versus Advantages infrared (IR) and Active RFID solution is responsible for clinical-grade location and automation at a number of hospitals, clinics and long-term care facilities worldwide. To learn more about Versus Technology, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: VSTI), our technology and client successes, visit www.versustech.com and take the Advantages Tour.

Safe Harbor Provision
This release may include forward-looking statements which “bespeak caution,” and which are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements. The statements are made only as of the date of this release, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update them to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.

Media Contact:
Versus Technology, Inc.
Stephanie Bertschy
Director of Marketing
877.983.7787
Email Contact

Investor/Analyst Contact:
Versus Technology, Inc.
Joseph Winowiecki
Chief Financial Officer
231.946.5868
Email Contact

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Infection Control Leader Zimek Technologies Supports CMS Efforts to Enhance Hospital Quality Standards

Posted on October 1, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Zimek Technologies

TAMPA, FL–(Marketwire – October 1, 2010) –  Zimek Technologies (www.zimek.com), a worldwide leader in infection control and biohazard remediation, today applauded the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) current efforts toward enhancing hospital quality standards, which among them include driving hospitals to meaningfully reduce healthcare-associated infections (HAIs).

“We support all regulatory efforts that push for a critical need to address HAIs, which according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is a major concern with 3.5 million patients infected each year in hospitals and long-term care facilities due to HAIs,” said Kurt Grosman, CEO of Zimek Technologies. “As a business leader in the infection control industry, I intend to support the CMS by promoting meaningful infection control best practices which can reduce HAIs and save lives. Zimek’s state of the art infection control technology can clearly help hospitals all over the country meet the quality standards set forth by CMS to reduce overall Hospital-Acquired Conditions (HACs).” Last week, CMS suspended its plans to make HAC information available to the public due to a discrepancy which was identified between the claims data that hospitals submitted and the CMS data file that was used to calculate the HAC information.

Grosman pointed out that by utilizing Zimek Technologies, hospitals can save millions of dollars annually. “Preventing five of the most commonly occurring HACs could help a 200-bed facility save $2 million a year, which is documented by the Healthcare Management Council (HMC),” Grosman said. The savings relate to the extra services hospitals provide to treat related complications that arise. Infection due to medical care is one of the HACs that can result in nonpayment from Medicare, Medicaid, and in some cases private insurance.

In data provided by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, HMC studied hospitals as small as 75 beds and as large as 800 beds to determine how much they spend on HAC-related patient care. The cost ranged from $8,300 per patient for care costs associated with accidental punctures to $24,500 per patient for care related to hospital-acquired infections.

Zimek’s industry-leading infection control technologies are used by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Department of Defense, fire and EMS departments, healthcare facilities, public health agencies, transit systems, correctional facilities, and local law enforcement agencies across America.

Zimek’s revolutionary Micro-Mist® products “micronize” disinfectants that can quickly and automatically decontaminate facilities, equipment and vehicles. Zimek’s germ-killing Micro-Mist® can permeate crevasses and hidden surfaces where super-germs are untouched by standard sanitizing methods.

“Zimek’s proven rapid infection control application is a meaningful 21st century best practices infection prevention technology which will add another weapon to our arsenal to combat the spread of infectious diseases,” Grosman added.

Media Contact:
Bob Mazza
Email Contact
(310) 994-4847

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

PHILand Ranch Signs Agreement to Co-Develop Part of Hanoi South An Khanh New City

Posted on September 30, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: PHILand Ranch, Ltd.

FRANKFURT, GERMANY and LOS ANGELES, CA–(Marketwire – September 30, 2010) – PHIGroup, Inc., (OTCBB: PHIE) today announced that its subsidiary PHILand Ranch Ltd., a company engaged in the development of master-planned communities, residential and commercial properties, hospitality and healthcare services in Vietnam and Southeast Asia, (WKN A0RPEA) (FRANKFURT: 1P8) (XETRA: 1P8), has signed an agreement with Hanoi-based Huong Viet International Investment and Trade Joint Stock Company to co-develop the HH3 Project, part of the South An Khanh New City, about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from Central Hanoi, Vietnam.

The HH3 Project consists of 2.8 hectares (6.92 acres) along Lang Hoa Lac Highway in An Khanh Village, Hoai Duc District, Hanoi City, which has been approved for 40% mixed use construction, with seven 40-story building blocks to be built, 38 stories of which are allocated for residential purposes. PHILand Ranch will be responsible for engaging a renowned architectural firm to help design the project and jointly contributing capital towards the development and construction.

Total cost of the HH3 Project is estimated at $238.7 million while projected revenues range from $323.5 million to $582.2 million and net profits from $63.5 million to $257.7 million, based on a sale price of $1,000/square meter to $1,800/square meter. PHILand Ranch may own 50% to 70% of the project, based on actual resource contributions such as design work, capital contributed and project management.

According to Cushman Wakefield, the real estate market in Vietnam is showing signs of recovery in line with positive growth of the Vietnamese economy and Hanoi’s increasing population and urbanization ratio, which is predicted to be 30% in 2010 and 50% in 2020. Good investment returns are anticipated in all residential segments especially in the premium and executive levels since demand for houses for people with an average income always remains high.

Henry Fahman, Chairman of PHILand Ranch, said, “We are delighted to partner with Huong Viet, a group of real estate experts who possess in-depth knowledge of the local market, marketing savvy and a extensive client network, to develop the HH3 Project to meet the growing demand of the housing market in Hanoi and its surrounding areas. This is the first of our joint development projects with selective local Vietnamese partners as part of our growth strategy.”

About PHILand Ranch Ltd.
PHILand Ranch Limited, a United Kingdom corporation, is engaged in the development of master-planned communities, residential and commercial properties, hospitality and healthcare services in Vietnam and the growing economies of Southeast Asia. The company is currently developing the first phase of a multi-billion dollar project at Pointe91 in Bien Rang, Chu Lai, Quang Nam Province, Central Vietnam through its wholly owned Vietnam-based subsidiary PHILand Vietnam Ltd. PHILand Ranch’s stock is traded on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (FRANKFURT: 1P8), (WKN A0RPEA). Website: www.PHILandranch.com.

About PHIGroup, Inc.
PHIGroup (OTCBB: PHIE) provides M&A advisory and consulting services, develops real estate and natural resources and invests in special situations. PHIGroup, which specializes in raising capital and helping take companies public, is developing PHILand Ranch, one of the largest master planned communities in Vietnam. This project includes Pointe91, a luxury resort and premium residential community in Quang Nam province in central Vietnam (www.PHILandranch.com). PHIGroup is also engaged in mining activities through its majority-owned subsidiary PHI Mining Group, Inc. (www.phimining.com). Website: www.phiglobal.com.

Contact:
Daniel St. John
Director and Corporate Strategist
PHILand Ranch Ltd.
Tel: +1-714-843-5453
Email: [email protected]

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Renowned Orthopedic Specialists Join the New Methodist Center for Orthopaedic Surgery at Willowbrook

Posted on September 28, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Methodist Center for Orthopaedic Surgery at Willowbrook

HOUSTON, TX–(Marketwire – September 28, 2010) –  Four nationally recognized orthopedic surgeons from the Methodist Center for Orthopaedic Surgery are now seeing patients in northwest Houston at Methodist Willowbrook Hospital. 

The Willowbrook center, which provides comprehensive care in the diagnosis and surgical and non-surgical treatment of musculoskeletal injuries and conditions, is made up of board certified specialists in hand and upper extremity, foot and ankle, sports injuries and orthopedic trauma.

Drs. Korsh Jafarnia, Travis Hanson, Bruce Moseley, and Plinio Caldera have joined the center, now providing complete orthopedic and sports medicine care to northwest Houston and the surrounding area. 

“We are pleased to add these talented physicians to our team and the dynamic orthopedic center at Methodist Willowbrook. Utilizing the latest technology in arthroscopy, endoscopy and rehabilitative therapies, these physicians — each specializing in a particular area — bring a superior level of care to the community,” said Julie Peterson, Director, Physician and Community Strategic Alignment, Methodist Willowbrook Hospital.

Jafarnia, who is also Chief of Staff at Methodist Willowbrook Hospital, is one of Houston’s leading hand and upper extremity surgeons. He is an assistant clinical professor at Baylor College of Medicine and completed his fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital at Harvard Medical School. Hanson specializes in sports medicine with particular focus on the foot and ankle. He is a team physician for Rice University and the U.S. Soccer national teams. Moseley specializes in sports medicine with focus on the knee and shoulder. He is the recipient of the DeBakey Award for Outstanding Research and formerly team physician for the Houston Rockets and the Houston Comets. Caldera specializes in orthopedic trauma with focus on the knee, shoulder and hip. He has a special interest in arthroscopic knee, shoulder surgery and total hip and knee replacements.

To learn more about these physicians and the Methodist Center for Orthopaedic Surgery at Willowbrook go to www.methodistwillowbrook.com or call (281) 737-0999.

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Sunlight Research Analyzes Impact of iPSC Patent Activity on Stem Cell Research

Posted on September 28, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Sunlight Research, LLC

Live Webcast From World Stem Cell Summit in Detroit, Oct. 6, 2010, to Highlight Key Findings of Sunlight’s Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Patent Report

MINNEAPOLIS, MN–(Marketwire – September 28, 2010) – Sunlight Research™ — The Source for Patent Analysis www.SunlightResearch.com, today announced the October 6, 2010 release of its Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Patent Report analyzing this important stem cell technology segment. 

Stem cells have the remarkable potential to replace and rejuvenate injured, diseased and aging tissues. With the development of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technologies, differentiated cells with the exact genetic and immunological properties of a selected patient’s cells can be reprogrammed to be stem cells, thereby eliminating problems of immunological rejection and viral contamination.

“Induced pluripotent stem cells may be developed for treatment of a multitude of diseases, including cardiovascular and neurological conditions” says Robin A. Chadwick, PhD, JD, a patent attorney and lead author of Sunlight’s iPSC Patent Report. “In addition, iPSCs can end long waiting periods for organ transplants, and the use of immunosuppression drugs in transplant recipients. The process,” she explains, “could be as simple as mixing a few cells from a patient with a [patented] cocktail of biological molecules, letting the cells grow up, and then injecting them into the patient.”

Daniel A. Halpern, President of Sunlight Research, noted that “iPSCs represent a real game-changing technology, and one of the most exciting segments of the rapidly growing stem cell market.” The overall global stem cell market is projected to reach $2.6 billion by 2012, and to exceed $5.1 billion by 2014, according to estimates by Business Insights, a market research firm. Other estimates show considerably larger global market forecasts. “The gold rush is on,” Mr. Halpern added, “and many businesses and research institutions are staking claims to various aspects of iPSC technology, as evidenced by patent filings and issuances. Our mission is to shed light on these boundary-setting activities so that all stakeholders can make better decisions.” 

Webinar October 6, 2010
The webinar, which will be webcast live from the World Stem Cell Summit in Detroit, is scheduled for 12:00pm EDT on Wednesday, October 6, 2010 and will highlight key findings of Sunlight’s comprehensive claims-level analysis of the iPSC patent landscape, including issued patents and pending patent applications. Registration and report details are available online at iPSC Patent Report.

About Sunlight Research, LLC
Sunlight Research™ is the premier source for up-to-date Reports, Webinars and Educational Events concerning Patent Claims Coverage, Intellectual Property Market Research, Non-Practicing Entity (“Troll”) Patent Reports and Interactive Freedom-To-Operate databases. Sunlight provides timely, in-depth and actionable patent analyses that are easily accessible and cost effective. A key feature of many Sunlight reports is an interactive freedom-to-operate tool, which allows customers to rapidly test various product designs for infringement against relevant patents. Sample reports are available at www.SunlightResearch.com

Register Today
iPSC Patent Report.

About the World Stem Cell Summit
The summit will attract more than 1,000 attendees from 30 nations, 60 exhibitors and more than 200 endorsing organizations and media partners. The largest and most comprehensive multi-track stem cell conference, the Summit features more than 150 international speakers and 50 hours of in-depth science, business and society presentations. www.worldstemcellsummit.com.

Keywords: Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells, iPSCs, stem cell patent, biotech, biotechnology, world stem cell summit, claims, transplants

Sunlight Research, LLC.
900 2nd Avenue S., #490
Minneapolis, MN 55402 U.S.A.
Email Contact
612-977-1713 -extension #3

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Hospital Infections Boost at Least One Area of IVD: Report Finds

Posted on September 28, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Kalorama Information

NEW YORK, NY–(Marketwire – September 28, 2010) – Hospital acquired infections, or HAIs remain a problem for the healthcare system, and a problem in which new diagnostic products can play a role, according to Kalorama Information. In its report, “The Worldwide Market for In Vitro Diagnostic Tests,” the healthcare market research publisher details how sophisticated molecular tests that can quickly identify patients for isolation and treatment are being utilized despite their higher price tag. Kalorama forecasts that revenues for molecular tests that detect HAIs will grow at 25% per year for the next five years.

“They are growing at four times the rate of the average IVD products,” said Shara Rosen, senior diagnostic analyst for Kalorama Information and the author of the report. “HAIs are a huge problem and this is an opportunity for the most logical tests to treat them.”

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that HAIs affect nearly 2 million Americans annually, resulting in 90,000 deaths and up to $6.5 billion in extra costs. A 2009 edition study in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that 51% of patients in nearly 1,300 intensive care units in 75 countries were suffering from some kind of hospital-acquired infection. MRSA, the most notorious of them all, accounts for about 10% of these infections. Other problem pathogens include C-difficile (an intestinal infection), Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus (linked with intestinal, skin and blood infections), and drug-resistant Acinetobacter (which can cause pneumonia, skin and blood infections). 

Kalorama Information’s report details several approaches to HAI detection. On the conservative and least expensive side are chromogenic growth media that permit the selective growth of MRSA bacteria and produce a colored colony that is easily recognizable. On the more expensive side, there has been an explosion of user-friendly molecular assays that have been widely accepted. Cephid, Becton Dickinson and Seegene are among the companies with products to test for HAIs. The advantage of these molecular tests is that they can provide highly sensitive rapid turnaround results. Their popularity, according to the report is growing but not universal.

“Screening with molecular tests has its defenders and opponents,” Rosen said. “The defenders suggest that the cost of molecular screening tests, especially for MRSA, allow carrier patients to be segregated from the rest of the population. The opponents say that techniques such as chromogenic growth media identify carriers in enough time to limit the damage they can do.”

Kalorama Information’s Report, “The Worldwide Market for In Vitro Diagnostic Tests,” takes a look at these topics and more. The book, published every two years, looks at every aspect of the in vitro diagnostic industry including molecular, hematology, immunoassays, POC and more. The report can be found at:
http://www.kaloramainformation.com/redirect.asp?progid=79688&productid=2613362.

About Kalorama Information
Kalorama Information supplies the latest in independent market research in the life sciences, as well as a full range of custom research services. We routinely assist the media with healthcare topics. Follow us on Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/KaloramaInfo) and LinkedIn (http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=2177845&trk=hb_side_g).

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Houston Gastroenterology Practice, Bay Area Gastroenterology, Offers Remicade Infusions for Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis

Posted on September 28, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Bay Area Gastroenterology

IV Infusions Provide Relief for Patients Suffering From Inflammatory Bowel Disorders

HOUSTON, TX–(Marketwire – September 28, 2010) –  Bay Area Gastroenterology, a Houston Gastroenterology practice, is now pleased to offer Remicade infusions for patients with Crohn’s and Ulcerative colitis, at 1015 Medical Center Boulevard in Webster, Texas. With their state of the art infusion suites, the physicians at Bay Area Gastroenterology continue to be one the leading endoscopy practices in Houston and Clear Lake. 

The infusion suites offer IV infusion of Remicade on weekdays by trained nurses in an office setting. The gastroenterology consultants are Board certified trained professionals who have expertise in the diagnosis and therapy of Inflammatory bowel disorders such as Crohn’s disease, Ulcerative colitis and Colitis. Dr. Ravi S. Mani M.D., President of Bay Area Gastroenterology, states that the disease is often characterized by abdominal pain, diarrhea, bleeding, change in bowel habits and weight loss.

Patients who have moderate to severe Crohn’s Disease and who have not responded to other therapies are good candidates for Remicade infusions. Remicade has been effective in relieving the symptoms of acute abdominal pain and inflammatory bowel disorders by binding and blocking the effects of TNF-alpha, a protein involved in the inflammation process. 

Remicade IV Infusions at Bay Area Gastroenterology are administered by highly trained nurses in the comfort of an infusion suite. During the infusion, the nurse will check each patient at regular intervals. Patients are encouraged to relax, read a book, listen to music or watch television.

“We are pleased to offer IV Infusion for Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative colitis at Bay Area Gastroenterology,” said Dr. Mani. “It is far more relaxing for our patients to receive this therapy in one of our Infusion suites instead of having to go to the hospital. Our nurses are highly trained in the administration of IV infusions and ensure the comfort of each patient throughout the infusion process.”

About Bay Area Gastroenterology
Bay Area Gastroenterology is a leading medical center for the diagnosis and treatment of ailments of the stomach, intestines, colon, gallbladder and pancreas. On site radiological and endoscopic facilities provide state-of-the-art medical care for disorders and diseases such as Crohn’s, Colitis and acid reflux/GERD. Bay Area Gastroenterology was the first private practice group in the Houston area to offer office based Virtual Colonoscopy for screening of colon cancer.

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This Week on ORLive: Live Patient Specific Knee Replacement and New CME Resources

Posted on September 28, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: BroadcastMed, Inc.

New On-Demand and Live Medical Video From BroadcastMed for the Week of September 27, 2010

WEST HARTFORD, CT–(Marketwire – September 28, 2010) –  BroadcastMed, the leader in online medical video, presents on ORLive a live interactive broadcast of a patient specific knee replacement featuring technology from Zimmer. This week also includes the launch of a new CME focused website from UPMC, the UPMC Physician Resources site.

On-demand features this month include our library of procedures and educational programming focused on atrial fibrillation and BroadcastMed invites you to take part in the latest installment of the Virtual Brain Tumor Board.

NEW ON ORLIVE

LIVE SURGERY VIDEO – Zimmer Patient Specific Instruments and the Gender Solutions™ Natural-Knee® Flex System
Premieres Tuesday, September 28, 2010 at 7PM EDT

On Tuesday, September 28th at 7 PM EDT Zimmer Medical Education will broadcast an ORLive Zimmer Patient Specific Instrument surgery featuring Zimmer Patient Specific Instruments and Natural Knee. The surgery will be performed by Dr. Michael Bolognesi, Duke University Medical Center and will be moderated by Dr. Shawn Hocker from Atlantic Orthopedics, PA in Wilmington, NC. The broadcast will last one hour and will show the entire surgical procedure.

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.

NEW CME SITE – Introducing the UPMC Physician Resource
This week marks the launch of the UPMC Physician Resources website, a new web destination dedicated to providing physicians with the highest quality CME content from one of the country’s leading institutions.

ORLIVE REFERRALS – Week of September 27, 2010
September is National Atrial Fibrillation Awareness Month, and each week ORLive highlights on-demand videos for our membership and visitors. 

Medical Education Referral: Arrhythmia: Catheter Ablation for Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT), from Brigham and Women’s Hospital

CME Referral: Reality EP: Catheter Ablation for Paroxysmal AF, from the Heart Rhythm Society

Viewer’s Referral: Robot Assisted Partial Nephrectomy Surgery, from Shawnee Mission Medical Center

HIGHLIGHTS

NOW ON-DEMAND – Continuum® Acetabular System and Zimmer® M/L Taper with Kinectiv® Technology
Now Available On-demand

Zimmer Medical Education presents 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.

NOW ON-DEMAND – Artificial Disc Treatments for Cervical Disease
Now Available On-Demand

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.

PREVIEW – LEGION™ Total Knee System with VISIONAIRE™ Patient Matched Instrumentation
Premieres Tuesday, October 5, 2010 at 7PM EDT

Kenneth Cherry, MD will demonstrate his approach to address efficiency in the OR by utilizing the LEGION Total Knee System in conjunction with VISIONAIRE Patient Matched Instrumentation while Dr. Steven Haas, from the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City, moderates the procedure. Combining the two technologies, will reduce OR time and eliminate up to 23 surgical steps from the TKA procedure thereby making efficiency more accessible.

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 BroadcastMed

BroadcastMed is the leading provider of video communication channels and solutions to the healthcare community. Working collaboratively with hospitals, device manufacturers, and pharmaceutical companies, BroadcastMed produces and distributes customized, interactive, video programs that demonstrate the latest advances in medicine, surgical techniques and product innovations, and promotes them to a verified audience of more than 700,000 healthcare professionals. The BroadcastMed network of sites provides an intimate look at over 650 live and on-demand surgeries, medical education, and symposia to global audiences that watch and learn from more than 40 million video views annually. The BroadcastMed network can be found on-line at www.BroadcastMed.com. 

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

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ORLive, the Surgical Broadcasting Company, Aggressively Broadens Focus to Broadcast Medical Programming to All Healthcare Professionals

Posted on September 27, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: BroadcastMed, Inc.

BroadcastMed Increases Online Medical Video Viewership to Never-Before-Seen Levels

WEST HARTFORD, CT–(Marketwire – September 27, 2010) –  ORLive, a leading provider of online video to the healthcare market, announces the formation of BroadcastMed, to address the growing demand for online video solutions. 

BroadcastMed is a response to the changes in the market that extend far beyond the traditional ORLive solutions of live programming from the Operating Room. “Our company long ago accomplished the mission implied by the name ORLive. We literally have taken physicians and other healthcare professionals ‘Live to the OR,'” says Ross Joel, CEO of BroadcastMed. “As a rapidly increasing number of healthcare professionals turn to online resources for education and research, we have a growing audience and clients who have interests that stretch well beyond surgery to all medical disciplines. BroadcastMed meets those diverse needs with strategic consulting, program development, and audience generation solutions.”

BroadcastMed communicates, demonstrates and educates through websites such as ORLive.com and The Virtual Brain Tumor Board. Where ORLive.com will continue to bring the most relevant surgically-focused content to an ever growing online audience, look for a soon to be launched site for CME focused video on BroadcastMedCME.com, a site dedicated to providing access to online accredited continuing medical education.

The formation of BroadcastMed marks a new milestone for the 16 year old company, enabling new growth opportunities. “While our increasing strength and diversity make BroadcastMed the cornerstone of our branding worldwide, given the significance of our flagship web brand, ORLive, its structure, focus and name will remain unchanged,” says Peter Gailey, President of BroadcastMed. Gailey also says, “This is a very exciting time in the market and we see this as a step towards providing doctors, nurses and other clinicians with high quality and relevant online content via a trusted source.”

About BroadcastMed
BroadcastMed is the leading provider of video communication channels and solutions to the healthcare community. Working collaboratively with hospitals, device manufacturers, and pharmaceutical companies, BroadcastMed produces and distributes customized, interactive, video programs that demonstrate the latest advances in medicine, surgical techniques and product innovations, and promotes them to a verified audience of more than 700,000 healthcare professionals. The BroadcastMed network of sites provides an intimate look at over 650 live and on-demand surgeries, medical education, and symposia to global audiences that watch and learn from more than 40 million video views annually. The BroadcastMed network can be found on-line at www.BroadcastMed.com.

Contact:

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

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CoverageForAll.org Launches Spanish-Language Edition With 50-State Online Directory of Public & Private Health Coverage Programs

Posted on September 27, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Foundation for Health Coverage Education

Aetna Foundation Grant Makes New Service Possible

SAN JOSE, CA–(Marketwire – September 27, 2010) –  Efforts to educate uninsured Americans who are unaware of current government-funded and low-cost health insurance programs have been given a boost with the Foundation for Health Coverage Education’s (FHCE) launch today of a Spanish language edition of its pioneering website, www.CoverageForAll.org. 

The nonprofit was able to translate CoverageForAll.org and expand its outreach to the Hispanic community with the support of a $30,000 grant from the Aetna Foundation, the independent philanthropic arm of Aetna Inc. The Spanish version, http://espanol.coverageforall.org will provide Spanish-speaking visitors with the same content found in FHCE’s main public and private health coverage state-by-state directory of programs, which has been educating uninsured Americans about their coverage options since 2004.

“At a time when health care reform legislation is requiring people to have health insurance coverage, we need to move with even greater urgency to break down barriers, such as language, to information about government-funded or low-cost programs,” said Anne C. Beal, M.D., M.P.H., president of the Aetna Foundation. “We are heartened that the new Spanish-language version of CoverageForAll.org will enable a significant segment of the American population to have affordable access to our health care system. Establishing a level playing field for all racial and ethnic groups to obtain good health care is a priority program area for the Aetna Foundation.” 

With this new enhancement, CoverageForAll.org visitors can simply click on http://espanol.coverageforall.org and learn their health insurance options in Spanish through FHCE’s 5-question Eligibility Quiz or they can call the 24/7 multilingual U.S. Uninsured Help Line (1-800-234-1317) to talk with a Spanish-speaking health insurance specialist who will review the questions with them. This eligibility review is a starting point for the Fresno, California-based call center’s counselors who guide each caller through their options and direct them to the appropriate state-sponsored programs. Along with taking the Eligibility Quiz, visitors now also have the ability to learn about COBRA coverage via the Spanish-version of FHCE’s COBRA Booklet or may download FHCE’s Health Care Options Matrix, the consumer-friendly guide to all of the health coverage programs in their state.

The goal of FHCE for translating the site was to broaden its mission of lowering the ranks of the uninsured, specifically by targeting what the U.S. Census Bureau indicates is the 32% of Hispanic Americans who live without health coverage. The Aetna Foundation’s grant opened up an even larger opportunity to assist the FHCE’s current collaborative partners, the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association, the American Lung Association, the American Diabetes Association, and California’s Employee Development Department and Department of Insurance in aiding their Hispanic populations.

“The FHCE has helped more than two million people find heath coverage through CoverageForAll.org and our U.S. Uninsured Help Line,” said Ankeny Minoux, President of the FHCE. “With funding from the Aetna Foundation for a Spanish version of CoverageForAll.org, we can continue to provide uninsured Americans an easy and efficient way to access information about their health coverage options in their native language.”

About the Aetna Foundation
The Aetna Foundation is the independent charitable and philanthropic arm of Aetna Inc. Since 1980, Aetna and the Aetna Foundation have contributed over $379 million in grants and sponsorships, including more than $20 million in 2009. As a national health foundation, we promote wellness, health, and access to high-quality health care for everyone. This work is enhanced by the time and commitment of Aetna employees, who have volunteered nearly two million hours since 2003. Our current giving is focused on addressing the rising rate of adult and childhood obesity in the U.S.; promoting racial and ethnic equity in health and health care; and advancing integrated health care. For more information, visit www.AetnaFoundation.org.

About the Foundation for Health Coverage Education:

The Foundation for Health Coverage Education (FHCE) is a non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization with a mission to help simplify public and private health insurance eligibility information in order for more people to access coverage. In addition to its U.S. Uninsured Help Line (800) 234-1317 and website www.CoverageForAll.org, FHCE offers free consumer guides, such as the Health Care Options Matrix™ that is available for all 50 states.

Editorial Contacts:
Foundation for Health Coverage Education
Marilyn Haese/Bobbi Rubinstein
(310) 556-9612
[email protected]

Aetna Foundation
Susan Millerick
860-273-0536
[email protected]

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Leading Healthcare Organizations Honored for Excellence and Innovation by Intelligent InSites

Posted on September 27, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Intelligent InSites

Intelligent InSites Recognizes Clients and Partners That Have Deployed the InSites Enterprise Visibility Platform to Deliver Transformational Outcomes

FARGO, ND–(Marketwire – September 27, 2010) –  Intelligent InSites Inc., the leading provider of real-time enterprise visibility and automation solutions, has announced recipients of its 2010 Excellent InSites Awards. The awards recognize organizations that are transforming healthcare through their use of the InSites Enterprise Visibility Platform™ (InSites Platform) to drive significant, measureable, and sustainable financial and quality of care improvements. Intelligent InSites honored clients and partners during its Second Annual Partner Summit, which was held in Fargo, ND on September 13-15, 2010.

Client Awards for 2010 were awarded in two categories:

Innovation Award, received by Butler Health System (www.butlerhealthsystem.org), recognizes the Intelligent InSites client who has leveraged the InSites Platform in groundbreaking ways, exhibiting creativeness in the application of technology to improve the level of care, patient/resident safety, operational efficiency, compliance and staff satisfaction, and creating the real-time enterprise.

Impact Award, received by Texas Health Resources (www.texashealth.org), recognizes an exceptional Intelligent InSites client using the InSites Platform to make a significant and quantifiable impact on patient/resident care, operational efficiency, and staff satisfaction.

“We are extremely proud to recognize Butler Health System and Texas Health Resources,” said Mark Rheault, President and CEO of Intelligent InSites. “Both organizations have demonstrated their commitment to finding new ways to improve their operations as well as ensure the best experience for their patients. It is very gratifying to know that our solution helps fulfill their vision and goals, and has done so with exceptional and sustainable outcomes.”

Partner Awards for 2010 were presented to the following organizations:

Alliance Partner of the Year Award – Crothall Services Group (www.crothall.com)
Integration Partner of the Year Award
– Awarepoint (www.awarepoint.com)
OEM Partner of the Year Award
– Touchtown (www.touchtown.us)
Reseller Partner of the Year Award – West-Com Nurse Call Systems (www.westcall.com) and Comm-Tronics (www.comm-tronics.net)

“The recipients of these annual partner awards have all demonstrated the actions in alignment with the mission of Intelligent InSites and therefore have profoundly improved the safety, satisfaction, and quality of life of our mutual clients and the people they serve,” said Jim Traynor, Director of Partnerships at Intelligent InSites.

The Intelligent InSites Partner Summit is focused on how software and technology providers, resellers, and consultants can strengthen their competitiveness and seize new business opportunities as the healthcare industry embraces the power of real-time locating systems (RTLS), condition sensing technologies, medical device connectivity, mobile communications, and enterprise-wide connectivity to provide the foundation of the “real-time enterprise.” By leveraging the platform approach, the Intelligent InSites’ partners can deliver meaningful and measurable positive outcomes resulting in lowered costs and increased revenues for healthcare providers.

The Third Annual Intelligent InSites Partner Summit will be held in October 2011 in Fargo, ND.

About Intelligent InSites

Intelligent InSites provides real-time enterprise visibility and automation solutions that transform the healthcare industry by dramatically driving down costs while improving the level of care and patient safety. By providing a single software platform capable of streamlining dozens of systems and processes using real-time location and sensory data continuously collected throughout the enterprise, Intelligent InSites helps healthcare organizations gain visibility into their operations and make profound improvements in the area of patient safety, workflow optimization, asset and inventory management, and regulatory compliance. For more information, visit www.IntelligentInSites.com.

Contact Information
Joanna Wyganowska
Intelligent InSites, Inc.
701-893-2000
Email Contact

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SpeechSwitch, Inc. (USOTC: SSWC) SEC Filings Begin

Posted on September 27, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: SpeechSwitch, Inc.

FLEMINGTON, NJ–(Marketwire – September 27, 2010) –  Ken Glynn, President of SpeechSwitch, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: SSWC), reported today that the first of required SEC documents to bring the company current was submitted today for EDGAR review. The third quarter, 2008 Form 10-Q has been completed and submitted to Marketwire for conversion and filing with the U.S. Securities Exchange Commission. This filing will be completed by noon tomorrow. Additional filings will be made over the next two weeks. The annual report for 2008 (end of year10-K) will be submitted by the end of this week; First quarter, 2009 Form 10Q will be filed early next week. The company has made a stepped up effort to bring the company current as a pink sheet company as quickly as possible.

Information set forth in this press release contains various “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The Private Securities Litigation reform Act of 1995 (the “Act”) provides certain “safe harbor” provisions for forward-looking statements. The reader is cautioned that such forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time and/or management’s good faith belief with respect to future events, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date the statement was made. We assume no obligation to update forward-looking information to reflect actual results, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by the use of terms such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “will,” and similar words, although some forward-looking statements are expressed differently. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, we can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. 

Contact:
Ken Glynn
908 788 0077

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Riverside to Host the Annual Women’s Health Expo

Posted on September 27, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Riverside Medical Center

KANKAKEE, IL–(Marketwire – September 27, 2010) –  Riverside Medical Center’s 5th annual Achieve Women’s Health Expo will take place on September 25th with the theme “Achieve health, wellness, fitness, your dreams. Achieve is a community-oriented women’s health expo through which one of the top hospitals in IL offers a variety of wellness information for women. Riverside’s women’s diagnostic center will provide free health screenings, a cooking demonstration, educational booths and healthy living presentations. 

If you live in Illinois and have the opportunity to utilize the many services of the hospitals in the Chicago area, you should definitely attend this expo. There will be several free screenings to take advantage of: EKG, glucose, pulse oximetry, blood pressure, carbon monoxide, hearing, osteoporosis, vision/glaucoma, functional balance, cholesterol and pre-diabetes. If you feel you may be at risk for any of these serious health factors, stop in and get a screening while it is on the house. Riverside Medical Center will also be offering free health risk assessments for stroke, sleep apnea, respiratory and smoking. 

In addition to these all important health screenings, a Zumba fitness exercise session will also be offered. This session will be lead by a certified Zumba instructor from the Riverside Health Fitness Center. During this high energy class you can dance your way to a healthy heart in a free-spirited, one-of-a-kind program. With easy to follow moves, you will find yourself quickly catching the beat of the Latin rhythms. A cooking demonstration will show you how to achieve heart health with delectable vegetarian entrees. An Osteoporosis lecture will focus on the novel treatment options for osteoporosis which are available at Riverside. There will also be a forum for you to learn how to balance work and life. You can learn how to create a better work-life balance with simple ideas and tips on managing and tracking time, learning to say no, nurturing yourself and more.

While this is primarily a women’s expo, men are also encouraged to attend. With mini manicures, educational booths, demonstrations, presentations, giveaways, prizes and more, you can’t afford not to attend. The Achieve Women’s Health Expo will take place on Saturday, September 25, 2010 at the Quality Inn & Suites in Bradley, IL from 8:30am to 12:30pm.

For more information about other 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: Facilities And Providers

Just Associates Launches Duplicate Patient Record Workflow Software

Posted on September 27, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Just Associates

IDMaster® Streamlines and Accelerates the Duplicate Patient Record Review and Reconciliation Process, Reducing Costs and Freeing Valuable Resources

CENTENNIAL, CO–(Marketwire – September 27, 2010) –  Just Associates, Inc., a consulting firm specializing in patient data integrity solutions for the health information management (HIM), health informatics and health information technology (HIT) markets, today unveiled IDMaster®, an innovative software solution designed to optimize workflow when reviewing and validating potential duplicate patient records.

The announcement was made at the 82nd AHIMA Convention and Exhibit, taking place Sept. 25-30, 2010 in Orlando, Fla., where Just Associates is featuring IDMaster in Booth #1737.

IDMaster provides hospitals, health systems and other provider organizations, as well as regional health information organizations (RHIOs) and health information exchanges (HIEs), with an efficient and affordable means of reviewing and resolving duplicate patient records and preventing the occurrence of new data integrity issues. It reduces the time and resources required to reconcile potential duplicate pairs and overlap and overlay records. It also documents the validity of decisions made regarding duplicates, tracks productivity and generates comprehensive, user-friendly reports that provide a complete view of efforts and key insights into problem origination points.

“As more provider organizations migrate to electronic health record systems to take advantage of incentive funds available under the HITECH Act, many are realizing just how serious a problem duplicate patient records have become. Not only are they a significant cost drain, but the data integrity issues duplicate records cause have far-reaching implications, impacting patient safety, care and quality, and creating roadblocks to achieving meaningful use of HIT,” said Beth Just, MBA, RHIA, FAHIMA, CEO and President of Just Associates. “IDMaster delivers the features and functionality that drive more efficient duplicate reconciliation, resulting in more accurate patient records, cleaner data and a clear path toward meaningful use.”

IDMaster facilitates the review of up to eight possible duplicates in a single view and heightens user control over the merge process while lessening the time burden. It supports human review and quality assurance before records are merged and produces an export file of confirmed duplicates, non-duplicates and those records requiring additional research. The solution also supports merging records in downstream systems, reducing manual steps and associated costs.

Exempla Healthcare implemented IDMaster following an extensive MPI clean-up and transition to a new system-wide clinical information system. The Denver-based three-hospital system now relies on the software to maintain clean, high-quality patient records. 

“We recognized quickly that, without the proper tools to identify problem areas, the issue would continue to compound,” said Grant Landsbach, Exempla’s data integrity EMPI manager. “IDMaster was precisely the tool we needed. The software was easy to install, did not take up much server space and produced positive results almost immediately.”

Built with flexibility in mind, IDMaster is customizable to match the organization’s unique review processes, supporting the steps involved in identifying and validating possible duplicates and multiples. It enables the insertion of check points for quality assurance, tracks and documents each step in the workflow and features productivity tracking by individual and an audit log that records errors and corrections to drive improved performance.

IDMaster’s automated workflow technology lets provider organizations:

  • Reduce the time, effort and resources associated with duplicate review and reconciliation
  • Create a repeatable process tailored to individual team strengths
  • Evaluate validity decisions and monitor performance at the employee or team level
  • Access detailed reports based upon date, validity decision, work done by specific employees and record status

IDMaster requires little or no IT support. Its web-based deployment allows for quick implementation and features import functionality that supports most hospital information systems and/or third-party data analysis capability.

Since deploying IDMaster, Exempla has experienced a significant reduction in the resources required to manage the duplicate reconciliation process.

“You can’t play patient roulette and patient safety cannot be over-emphasized,” said Landsbach. “IDMaster has helped us improve the quality of information within our system and streamline our workflows, allowing our team to more efficiently identify and eliminate duplicates and freeing valuable resources to focus more closely on other more complex and core issues. Going forward, IDMaster will help our team continue to make strides in duplicate record management. I would definitely recommend it for most healthcare environments these days.” 

About Just Associates, Inc.
A recognized leader in health information data integrity and management, Just Associates (www.justassociates.com) is a healthcare data integration consulting firm that delivers superior value to its clients through improved data integrity. Just Associates has the process expertise and systems knowledge to deliver tailored, value-added solutions that improve financial outcomes and business processes, support delivery of quality patient care, and meet the expectations of diverse stakeholders.

Media Contact:
Liz Roop
NPC Creative Services
(813) 960-5092 ext. 302
Email Contact

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Ziegler Announces New Head of Healthcare Finance Practice

Posted on September 27, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Ziegler

John Hanley Promoted

CHICAGO, IL–(Marketwire – September 27, 2010) –   Ziegler (PINKSHEETS: ZGCO), a specialty investment banking firm serving hospital and healthcare systems clients since 1928, announced the promotion of John Hanley to the head of its healthcare investment banking practice. Hanley, most recently a managing director in Ziegler’s healthcare practice, will lead the healthcare team in its continued delivery of capital advisory and investment banking services to non-profit hospitals and healthcare systems throughout the country.

Tom Paprocki, CEO of Ziegler, comments about Hanley’s promotion, “John has been an integral part of our healthcare team at Ziegler for many years. He’s an excellent relationship banker and has consistently demonstrated the leadership and vision necessary to head-up our healthcare practice.”

Hanley offered, “Ziegler’s continuous commitment to the healthcare industry over the past 75+ years has resulted in many long-established relationships and new business opportunities. In addition, the expansion of our sales and trading business over the past two years has provided significantly enhanced bond distribution for our clients. I am very excited to have the opportunity to lead our team going forward.”

For more information about Ziegler, please visit us at www.Ziegler.com.

About Ziegler:
The Ziegler Companies, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: ZGCO) together with its affiliates (Ziegler) is a specialty investment bank with unique expertise in complex credit structures and advisory services. Nationally, Ziegler is ranked as one of the leading investment banking firms in its specialty sectors of healthcare, senior living, religion and education finance, as well as corporate finance and FHA/HUD. Headquartered in Chicago, IL with regional and branch offices throughout the U.S., Ziegler creates tailored financial solutions including bond financing, advisory, private placement, seed capital, M&A, risk and asset management. Ziegler serves institutional and individual investors through its wealth management and capital markets distribution channels.

Certain comments in this news release represent forward-looking statements made pursuant to the provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, in particular, the overall financial health of the securities industry, the strength of the healthcare sector of the U.S. economy and the municipal securities marketplace, the ability of the Company to underwrite and distribute securities, the market value of mutual fund portfolios and separate account portfolios advised by the Company, the volume of sales by its retail brokers, the outcome of pending litigation, and the ability to attract and retain qualified employees.

Leslie Lynch
312-596-1630
Email Contact

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

WellTek Subsidiary Draws Celebrity Attention

Posted on September 27, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: WellTek Incorporated

WellCity Establishes WellCity Osmond Hearing Center

ORLANDO, FL–(Marketwire – September 27, 2010) –  WellTek, Inc. (OTCBB: WTKN), a global health, fitness and wellness company, announced today that its subsidiary WellCity, the premier online destination for those into health and wellness, garnered early attention from celebrity Justin Osmond as the perfect platform to share his grandmother’s mission with the world. The Olive Osmond Perpetual Hearing Fund is the first of many charity organizations to be introduced in WellCity.

Within the next three months, WellCity will launch its online audiology ward — the WellCity Osmond Hearing Center — in its virtual Medical Center, where consumers will be able to purchase and experience industry-leading products and services for hearing loss. The Company has agreed to donate a portion of the proceeds from the WellCity Osmond Hearing Center to the Olive Osmond Perpetual Hearing Fund. In addition to this ward, the WellCity Charity web page will have a ‘Donate Now’ feature where residents of WellCity can donate directly to the Olive Osmond Perpetual Hearing Fund. The Olive Osmond Perpetual Hearing Fund’s mission is to raise deaf awareness through research and education and bring the gift of hearing to underprivileged children all across the world. “It was my grandmother’s dream that the Osmond Foundation would dedicate all of its time and resources to help the deaf,” said Justin Osmond, Founder of the Olive Osmond Perpetual Hearing Fund. Continuing, he said, “I am dedicated to fulfilling her dream and especially thrilled to partner with WellCity as we carry out this mission together.”

David George, Founder and CEO of WellCity, stated, “WellCity will be a platform to reach countless people in many significant ways. The WellCity Osmond Hearing Center is one of them. Justin is a real genuine guy whose own legacy will impact many generations to come. We are blessed to have this opportunity to work with Justin and support the Olive Osmond Perpetual Hearing Fund. WellCity can’t change the world tomorrow, but we are making a difference today.”

About the Olive Osmond Perpetual Hearing Fund
The mother of the famous singing Osmonds, known affectionately world-wide as “Mother Osmond,” made a life-long commitment to supporting new research and innovation toward improving the quality of life for the hearing impaired. The journey began with the discovery that her two oldest sons Virl and Tom were severely hearing impaired. Merrill Osmond’s 2nd son, Justin, was born with the same severe and profound hearing sensorial-neural hearing loss from which his uncles suffered. The support and love of the original four singing Osmond Brothers was manifest when they began their career in order to raise money for the best hearing devices available for their brothers. Justin was very close to his grandmother Olive and loved hearing her stories about helping deaf children. Sensing her determination to aid the hearing impaired, Justin dedicated himself to continue her passion in building her dream to greater heights, thus the establishment of the ‘Olive Osmond Perpetual Hearing Fund.’ Justin continues to carry on Olive’s legacy in helping provide the Gift of Better Hearing to children worldwide.

About WellCity Incorporated
WellCity is a social utility where health- and wellness-minded ‘residents’ can closely commune with one another; receive support, information and encouragement from their ‘neighbors’ and from a league of leading professional experts; shop for health- and wellness-oriented products and services; compete in WellCity’s proprietary 90-Day Wellness Challenge; and even enjoy income opportunities by leveraging their personal network. For more information on the Company, please visit www.WellCity.com.

About WellTek Incorporated
WellTek is a global health, fitness and wellness company that provides proven solutions to help address some of the world’s most pressing and costly health and wellness challenges. The Company owns and operates WellCity, Inc., a premier wellness-related social utility that helps ‘residents’ live happier, healthier, longer lives. The Company’s subsidiary, MedX Limited, manufactures, markets and distributes the most advanced medical exercise equipment to the medical and fitness markets. Through its wholly owned subsidiary Pure HealthyBack, Inc., WellTek is redefining healthcare delivery by providing health plans, self-insured employer groups, and consumers with a viable non-surgical, lower cost treatment for patients who are seeking lasting relief from chronic neck and back pain. For more information on the Company, please visit www.WellTekinc.com or contact [email protected].

Certain statements contained in this press release, which are not based on historical facts, are forward-looking statements as the term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and are subject to substantial uncertainties and risks in part detailed in the respective Company’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings, that may cause actual results to materially differ from projections. Although the Company believes that its expectations are reasonable assumptions within the bounds of its knowledge of its businesses, expectations, representations and operations, there can be no assurance that actual results will not differ materially from their expectations. Important factors currently known to management that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include the Company’s ability to execute properly its business model, to raise additional capital to implement its continuing business model, the ability to attract and retain personnel — including highly qualified executives, management and operational personnel, ability to negotiate favorable future debt facilities and capital raises, and the inherent risk associated with a diversified business to achieve and maintain positive cash flow and net profitability. In light of these risks and uncertainties, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking information contained in this press release will, in fact, occur.

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Enclarity Presents Webinar for Provider Data Quality Index Score Improvement Using ProviderPoint Solution

Posted on September 27, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Enclarity Inc.

Blue Cross Blue Shield Plans Could Improve PDQI Scores by 20 Percent or More

ALISO VIEJO, CA–(Marketwire – September 27, 2010) – Enclarity, Inc., a leading healthcare information solutions company, will present a webinar on Thursday, September 30, 2010 revealing a simple way Blue Cross Blue Shield plans could improve Provider Data Quality Index (PDQI) scores by 20 percent or more. Using Enclarity’s proven ProviderPoint® solution, Blue payers can make measurable gains to improve the depth, quality and accuracy of provider data residing in their systems.

“During the past few years, we have partnered with several of the top Blue payers to great success,” said Stephanie Rose-Belcher, vice president, payer solutions, Enclarity. “We feel that we can help more Blue payers to improve their PDQI scores using our expertise in cleansing large, multi-record provider databases.”

What: Enclarity PDQI Webinar

When: Thursday, September 30, 2010

Time:  10 a.m. PDT/1 p.m. EDT

Who:  Blue plan administrators are invited to learn more about the Enclarity process and hear a case study about implementation.

Register: Register online by visiting http://www2.enclarity.com/l/414/2010-09-22/IHYVL.

About Enclarity
Enclarity® solves healthcare’s provider information problem. The company delivers correct, current and comprehensive provider information solutions by blending thousands of data sources, advanced analytics and healthcare expertise. As a result, its clients improve results in many areas, including claims processing, provider directories, regulatory compliance and market analysis. Named one of the Top 100 private technology companies in North America by Red Herring magazine and awarded the Global Healthcare Information Technology Excellence Award by Frost & Sullivan, Enclarity is headquartered in Aliso Viejo, Calif. For more information, visit www.enclarity.com.

Contacts
Company:
Brian Teeter
Enclarity, Inc.
949-614-8115
Email Contact

Media:
Theresa Dreike
Remarx Media Inc.
714-706-0433 ext. 102
Email Contact

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Micro Identification Technologies (MIT) Announces Business Update Webinar

Posted on September 27, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Micro Imaging Technology, Inc.

SAN CLEMENTE, CA–(Marketwire – September 27, 2010) – Micro Identification Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB: MMTC), a California-based public company and creator of an advanced rapid microbial identification system, announced today that it will host a 30 minute Webinar on Wednesday, September 29, 2010 at 1:00 pm (PDT). The objective of the Webinar is to provide a general Business Update to current and prospective customers and investors. John Ricardi, MIT’s Executive Vice President, will give the presentation that will be followed by an open question and answer session with MIT’s staff including its Chairman and CEO, Michael Brennan.

Attendees may register for this Event at https://www3.gotomeeting.com/register/427693966. The session will be recorded and placed on MIT’s website for those people who are unable to attend. If you are having trouble registering or would like more information, please contact the Company at [email protected].

About Micro Identification Technologies:

MIT 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.

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 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: Facilities And Providers

CytoSorbents Corporation Achieves ISO 13485 Certification

Posted on September 27, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: CytoSorbents Corporation

MONMOUTH JUNCTION, NJ–(Marketwire – September 27, 2010) –  CytoSorbents Corporation (OTCBB: CTSO), a critical care focused company using blood purification to treat life-threatening illnesses, announced the achievement of ISO 13485:2003 Full Quality Systems certification, a major milestone. ISO 13485 is an internationally recognized quality standard designed to ensure that medical device manufacturers have the necessary comprehensive management systems in place to safely design, develop, manufacture and distribute medical devices in the European Union (E.U.). It is a regulatory requirement of the E.U.’s Medical Device Directive and an important step toward attaining European CE Mark approval. 

Dr. Phillip Chan, Chief Executive Officer, stated, “We are very pleased to have attained this key milestone. ISO 13485 certification confirms that our manufacturing and quality systems meet the same high standards required of other major US medical device companies selling into Europe. Of the possible options, Full Quality Systems certification is the most stringent and efficient route to CE Mark approval for CytoSorb™ and other future CytoSorbents products. When coupled with CE Mark approval, ISO 13485 certification will allow CytoSorbents to commercialize its products in the E.U. market and other countries that recognize the ISO 13485 and CE Mark standards.”

About CytoSorbents and CytoSorb™

CytoSorbents Corporation, and its operating subsidiary CytoSorbents, Inc., is a critical care focused therapeutic device company in clinical trials to treat severe sepsis, often called “overwhelming infection,” with a novel blood purification device called CytoSorb™. Severe sepsis afflicts more than 1 million people in the United States and an estimated 18 million people worldwide each year, killing one in every three patients despite the best treatment. In the United States, more die from severe sepsis than from either heart attacks, strokes or any single form of cancer. Severe sepsis is typically triggered by bacterial infections like pneumonia, or viral infections like influenza. However, it is the body’s abnormal immune response to the trigger that leads to severe inflammation and the unregulated, massive production of cytokines, often called “cytokine storm,” that then causes multi-organ failure and often death. CytoSorb™ is a cartridge containing highly porous polymer beads that are designed to filter cytokines and treat potentially fatal cytokine storm. As blood is pumped repeatedly through the CytoSorb™ cartridge using standard dialysis equipment, the beads bind and remove cytokines and other toxins from blood. The treated blood is then returned to the patient. The Company is currently conducting its European Sepsis Trial — a multi-center, randomized, controlled clinical trial using CytoSorb™ to treat up to 100 patients with severe sepsis in the setting of respiratory failure. Pending a successful trial, the Company will seek CE Mark approval and commercialization of CytoSorb™ in the European Union. Importantly, cytokine reduction via CytoSorb™ has broad applicability to a number of other critical care diseases where cytokine storm plays a detrimental role, including burn and smoke inhalation injury, trauma, acute respiratory distress syndrome, advanced influenza, acute pancreatitis and other. CytoSorb™ is one of a number of different resins designed for various medical applications, including improved dialysis, the potential treatment of inflammatory and autoimmune disorders, rhabdomyolysis in trauma, removal of chemotherapy during treatment of cancer with high dose regional chemotherapy, drug detoxification and others. Additional information is available for download on the Company’s website: www.cytosorbents.com

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release includes forward-looking statements intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements in this press release are not promises or guarantees and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. These statements are based on management’s current expectations and assumptions and are naturally subject to uncertainty and changes in circumstances. We caution you not to place undue reliance upon any such forward-looking statements. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by the statements herein. CytoSorbents Corporation and CytoSorbents, Inc believe that its primary risk factors include, but are not limited to: obtaining government approvals including required FDA and CE Mark approvals; ability to successfully develop commercial operations; dependence on key personnel; acceptance of the Company’s medical devices in the marketplace; the outcome of pending and potential litigation; compliance with governmental regulations; reliance on research and testing facilities of various universities and institutions; the ability to obtain adequate financing in the future when needed; product liability risks; limited manufacturing experience; limited marketing, sales and distribution experience; market acceptance of the Company’s products; competition; unexpected changes in technologies and technological advances; and other factors detailed in the Company’s Form 10-K filed with the SEC on April 9, 2010, which is available at http://www.sec.gov.

Contact:
CytoSorbents Corporation
David Lamadrid
(732) 329-8885 ext. 816
[email protected]

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Kansas Governor and New CMS Deputy Administrator Keynote Medline’s Long-Term Care Summit

Posted on September 24, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Medline Industries, Inc.

More Than 150 Long-Term Care Leaders Attending Meeting to Explore Changing Expectations for Quality Resident Care

MUNDELEIN, IL–(Marketwire – September 24, 2010) –  Kansas Governor Mark Parkinson and new CMS Deputy Administrator for the Center for Strategic Planning Tony Rodgers will be the keynote speakers at Medline Industries, Inc.’s second annual Long-Term Care Quality Summit, September 27-29 in New York City. More than 150 leaders from the nation’s long-term care community are attending the two-day forum which is focused on how nursing homes can meet the changing expectations for quality among their residents and families. 

Through panel discussions, the Summit will also address the changing regulatory expectations for the long-term care industry and how nursing homes can implement a system to continuously improve quality of care and life for their residents.

Governor Parkinson was recently named the next president of the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL), the nation’s largest long-term care association. Rogers is also starting in a new position with CMS, where he is responsible for enterprise-wide strategic planning, Medicare and Medicaid research and demonstrations, policy research and development and CMS enterprise decision support.

Other speakers include: Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.; Andy Kramer, MD, chief executive officer of Nursing Home Quality and professor of medicine, University of Colorado; Neil Pruitt, Jr., chairman and CEO, UHS Pruitt Corporation; Jim Foy, president and CEO, St. John’s Riverside Healthcare System, Yonkers, NY; Barbara Baylis, senior vice president of clinical operations, Kindred Healthcare, Inc.; Mary Ousley, president of Ousley & Associates; Elizabeth Ayello, president of Ayello, Harris and Associates; and Kevin Yankowsky, partner in the health law litigation group of Fulbright & Jaworski L.L.P. 

About Medline
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.

Medline has a growing network of 32 distribution centers around the country, as well as an expanding, dedicated transportation fleet with over 200 vehicles in a variety of sizes to fit customers’ specific delivery needs. The fleet is equipped with the latest navigation devices for enhanced order tracking and communication.

Media Contacts:
Jerreau Beaudoin
(847) 643-3011

John Marks
(847) 643-3309

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

New Study: Dysport(TM) Data Shows Superiority Versus Botox(R) Cosmetic at the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery 2010…

Posted on September 24, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Clinical Results Show Efficacy Benefit With DysportTM for Treatment of Crow’s Feet

ALEXANDRIA, VA–(Marketwire – September 24, 2010) – The American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) today announced positive clinical results demonstrating a significant efficacy advantage with Dysport™ (abobotulinumtoxinA) over Botox® Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA) for the treatment of Crow’s feet. The data were presented Friday, September 24 at a scientific session at the AAFPRS 2010 Annual Fall Meeting, taking place September 23-26 in Boston.

Downloadable photos, fact sheets and other supporting materials available here: http://www.multimedianewscenter.com/aafprs/dysport-data-shows-superiority-versus-botox-cosmetic

The 90-subject study, titled “Internally Controlled Double-Blind Comparison of Onabotulinum and Abobotulinum Toxin Type A (Nettar, Kartik D., M.D., et. al),” met its primary endpoint (p=0.01) of greater efficacy of action with Dysport™ as defined by investigator assessment of maximum contraction at Day 30 post injection compared to Day 0. Additionally, a secondary endpoint — subject assessment at maximum contraction at Day 30 compared to Day 0 — also demonstrated statistical significance with Dysport™ (p=0.027).

“Botox has long been considered the gold standard of injectables, so this data showing Dysport’s stronger efficacy is compelling,” said Corey S. Maas, M.D., F.A.C.S., AAFPRS Group Vice President for Public and Regulatory Affairs. “Since injectables are the non-surgical cosmetic procedure rising fastest in popularity, it is important to continue honing new applications for existing treatments. Dysport’s potential here is exciting as Crow’s feet are a common concern for many men and women.”

The study concluded that Dysport™ offers a quantifiable and demonstrable advantage in wrinkle effacement (shortening) and hyperfunctional frown lines compared to Botox® Cosmetic in the treatment of Crow’s feet. Study investigators recommend further studies in additional facial regions to confirm the data.

Both Botox® Cosmetic and Dysport™ are FDA approved for treatment of moderate-to-severe glabellar lines (vertical lines between the eyebrows); neither product is presently indicated for treatment of Crow’s feet. The study was funded by an educational grant from Medicis Aesthetics.

Additional Study Information: The randomized, double-blind, internally-controlled (split face) study was conducted at the Maas Clinic in California. Ninety subjects (75 females, 15 males) with moderate-to-severe lateral orbital rhytids (Crow’s feet) were enrolled in the study. Participants received equivalent doses of both treatments: 10 units of Botox® Cosmetic on one side of the face and 30 units of Dysport™ on the other side. Investigator and subject gradings of Crow’s feet at relaxation and maximal contraction were obtained using the published validated dynamic and static Merz Crow’s feet grading scale before injection (Day 0) and then two, four, six, and 30 days post injection. All patients were photographed in standard five-view series at rest and at maximal contraction in a dedicated photo lane recorded by Mirror software. Additional secondary endpoints not met in the study include investigator assessment at rest at Day 30 (p=0.41) and subject assessment at rest at Day 30 (p=0.28).

About The AAFPRS: The AAFPRS is the world’s largest association of facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons with more than 2,700 members — whose cosmetic reconstructive surgery focuses on the face, head and neck. Academy fellows and members are board-certified and subscribe to a code of ethics. In addition, the AAFPRS provides consumers with free information and brochures and a list of qualified facial plastic surgeons in their area by visiting the AAFPRS website, www.facemd.org.

Contact:
Deborah Sittig
Green Room Public Relations
973-263-8585 ext. 22
Email Contact

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

American Diabetes Association Announces Second Annual John Pipe Voices For Change Award Winners

Posted on September 24, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: American Diabetes Association

Recipients Celebrated for Their Achievements in Diabetes Treatment and Prevention

SIOUX FALLS, SD–(Marketwire – September 24, 2010) –  The American Diabetes Association, the nation’s leading voluntary health organization in the fight against diabetes, announces several leading Special Diabetes Program for Indians (SDPI) grantees presented with the John Pipe Voices For Change Award in recognition of their effective diabetes treatment and prevention services in American Indian and Alaskan Native communities. The awards were presented at the National Indian Health Board’s 27th Annual Consumer Conference on Wednesday, September 22nd in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. 

“At nearly 17%, Alaska Natives have the highest age-adjusted prevalence of diabetes among all U.S. racial and ethnic groups,” said Gale Marshall, Chair of the American Diabetes Association’s Awakening the Spirit Native American initiative. “The John Pipe Voices For Change awards give us the opportunity to honor selected programs for their outstanding achievements in the delivery of diabetes prevention and treatment services in tribal communities. By showcasing these programs we are also acknowledging over 450 SDPI programs and their valuable efforts to stop diabetes.”

The name of these awards was changed to honor long-time diabetes supporter John Pipe of Wolf Point, Montana, who passed away earlier this year. Pipe was a dedicated diabetes advocate and served as a member of the Awakening the Spirit Subcommittee. His longstanding advocacy efforts reached from his local community to Washington, DC and impacted countless tribal communities. 

The 2010 John Pipe Voices For Change Award recognizes SDPI programs that have excelled in the following categories: Advocacy, Outcomes, and Innovation.

Advocacy Award:
Hualapai Healthy Heart Program
Peach Springs, Arizona
The Hualapai Healthy Heart Program is an SDPI funded demonstration project designed to reduce cardiovascular disease, the most compelling complication of diabetes among their participants. They have engaged their greater community in a variety of successful advocacy efforts having a local, regional and national impact.

Outcomes Award:
Bristol Bay Area Health Corporation (BBAHC)
Dillingham, Arkansas
BBAHC Diabetes Prevention/Lifestyle Change Program provides a comprehensive array of programs in effort to prevent diabetes or diabetes related complications spanning 34 villages within the Bristol Bay region. Programs work on improving individuals’ rates of diabetes, nutrition and exercise education, as well as lowering blood pressure.

Innovation Award:
Tuba City Diabetes Treatment and Prevention
Tuba City, Arizona
The Department of Diabetes Treatment and Prevention Services at the Tuba City Regional Health Care Corporation (TCRHCC) has employed innovative approaches that have resulted in community wide collaborations to effectively provide diabetes prevention and treatment services.

Honorable Mentions:

Advocacy Honorable Mention:

  • Native American Rehabilitation Association of the Northwest (NARA) Diabetes Treatment & Prevention Program (Portland, Oregon)
  • Cow Creek Health & Wellness Center (Roseburg, Oregon)

Outcomes Honorable Mentions:

  • SDPI Diabetes Prevention Program Warm Springs Health and Wellness Center Indian Health Services (Warm Springs, Oregon)
  • American Indian Health and Family Services (AIHFS) Diabetes Program (Detroit, Michigan) 

Innovation Honorable Mention:

  • Chickasaw Nation Division of Health (Ada, Oklahoma)

The SDPI continues to give Indian health programs and tribal communities the resources and tools they need to both prevent and treat diabetes. It funds more than 450 community directed programs, offering local tribes and health programs the opportunity to set priorities that meet the needs of the community, whether it be prevention activities or treatment. For over a decade Congress has provided funding for the SDPI and the American Diabetes Association has played an integral part in promoting this important program. The Association will continue to work for strong support of SDPI.

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:
Colleen Fogarty
[email protected]

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

MMRGlobal Prevails in Biotech Assets Case With Lymphoma Research Foundation

Posted on September 24, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: MMRGlobal, Inc.

LOS ANGELES, CA–(Marketwire – September 24, 2010) –  MMRGlobal, Inc. (OTCBB: MMRF) (MMR) announced today that it has successfully opposed a Summary Judgment Motion brought by the Lymphoma Research Foundation (LRF) as part of its efforts to protect a portion of the Company’s intellectual property, which it previously disclosed on May 3, 2010.

The Company acquired the biotech assets from its reverse merger with Favrille, Inc., a San Diego biotech company, in January 2009. Over the past year, MMR identified a collection of these biotech assets, which include biotech samples that were in the possession of the Lymphoma Research Foundation. They do not include other pre-merger biotech assets, including the Company’s anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies, results of clinical trials data, patents and other intellectual property.

According to declarations filed on behalf of MMR, the Company understands that the biotech samples could have a value as high as $1.376 million. However, based on other information currently maintained by the Company, the samples could have a far greater value, depending on the extent and depth of the clinical data collected at trial initiation, the extent and depth of the clinical data collected during patient follow-up, whether follow-up tissue samples are available, and whether accompanying whole blood or serum is available from patients from trial enrollment or during trial progression.

Robert H. Lorsch, Chairman and CEO of MMRGlobal, said, “We are pleased by this early ruling. When combined with clinical data from the Company’s vaccine research into the causes and potential treatment of B-Cell Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, including data from patient follow-ups which the Company has, the value could be significant.”

The Company understands its intellectual properties may also be of value in a possible reinterpretation of the pre-merger Favrille vaccine trials and that the IP may also unlock ways to create other “custom-made” cancer vaccines and be valuable in discovering additional opportunities in cancer research. The Company hopes to enter into licensing agreements with biopharmaceutical companies, academic institutions, research organizations and others regarding the use of its assets.

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.mmrglobal.com.

Forward-Looking Statements
Statements in this press release that are not strictly historical in nature constitute “forward-looking statements.” Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding MMRGlobal, Inc.’s assets including but not limited to its primary Health IT businesses, samples and data from vaccine and clinical trials, and anti-CD20 antibody assets. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to be materially different from historical results or from any results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties related to the development and approval of biotechnology/biopharmaceutical product candidates and Health IT products and additional risks discussed in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to the Company (or any person acting on the Company’s behalf) are qualified by the cautionary statements in this notice. MMRGlobal, Inc. is providing this information as of the date of this release and, except as required by law, does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release as a result of new information.

CONTACT:

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

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

New Randomized Controlled Trial Supports Efficacy and Safety of Spiracur SNaP Wound Care System

Posted on September 24, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Spiracur, Inc.

Interim Analysis Shows Non-Inferiority of SNaP Wound Care System Compared to Kinetic Concepts, Inc. Wound V.A.C. Therapy System

SUNNYVALE, CA–(Marketwire – September 24, 2010) – Spiracur, Inc. today announced important results from a clinical study highlighting the safety and efficacy of its SNaP Wound Care System for the treatment of chronic lower extremity wounds. The data was presented this week at the Fall 2010 Symposium on Advanced Wound Care (SAWC) in Anaheim, Calif.

The 12-center, 65-patient randomized controlled trial (RCT) compared negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) between the KCI Wound V.A.C. Therapy System and the SNaP Wound Care System for the treatment of chronic lower extremity wounds. The Poster was presented by David G. Armstrong, DPM, M.D., Ph.D., William A. Marston, M.D., Alexander M. Reyzelman, DPM and Robert S. Kirsner, M.D., Ph.D. The subjects were randomly assigned to treatment with either the SNaP System or the V.A.C. System, and the trial evaluated treatment for up to 16 weeks, or until there was complete closure of the ulcer.

Planned interim analysis of the first 65 patients from 12 centers found no significant differences in the proportion of subjects healed between the two devices evaluated or in percent wound size reduction. Non-inferiority was demonstrated between the two therapies in percent wound size reduction to the *p < 0.05 significance level. The study also found no significant differences in wound related complications such as wound infections.

According to David G. Armstrong, DPM, M.D., Ph.D., professor of surgery at the University of Arizona and principal investigator on this study, “We have been using the technology for over a year now and our patients have responded well to this new portable therapy. For those of us dedicated to healing wounds and preventing amputations, this device provides an important tool for treating these chronic conditions. This novel technology may prove to hold substantial potential for patients requiring smaller NPWT treatment options.”

“We are thrilled to have such positive clinical data presented at SAWC, as they clearly demonstrate the unique opportunity the SNaP Wound Care System offers to patients and clinicians for the treatment of chronic wounds,” said Gary Restani, president and chief executive officer, Spiracur, Inc. “The response to our proprietary system has been extremely positive by both patients and clinicians, and we are confident that this new data will help increase awareness for and broaden adoption of the SNaP Wound Care System.”

About the SNaP Wound Care System:
The SNaP Wound Care System is an ultraportable negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) device that was approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) in August 2009 in a new therapy category the FDA has defined as “non-powered” NPWT devices. The SNaP System provides the same level of negative pressure as competitive technologies; however, it requires no electric or battery power. In addition, the SNaP System, unlike powered NPWT, is silent, small and lightweight (weighing less than 3 oz.), which enables patients to wear the device under clothing and resume daily activity without exposing their wound care treatment to the world.

The FDA determined that the SNaP System is indicated for patients who would benefit from a suction device particularly as the device may promote wound healing. The SNaP System is used for the removal of small amounts of exudate from chronic, traumatic, dehisced, acute, subacute and ulcer (diabetic or pressure) wounds. Additional information can be found by visiting http://www.spiracur.com/snapproduct.html.

About Spiracur, Inc.
Spiracur, Inc. is a privately held medical device company focused on the development of innovative wound healing technologies. Spiracur was founded out of the Stanford Biodesign Innovation Program in 2007. Its first product, The SNaP Wound Care System, grew out of the notion that current negative pressure wound therapies were too cumbersome for patients and clinicians. Spiracur strives to develop products that are truly patient-centric. For more information, please visit http://www.spiracur.com.
SNaP, Spiracur and the Spiracur Design are registered trademarks of Spiracur Inc.

Media Contact:
Amy Cook
925.552.7893
Email Contact

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UK Is One of the Most Obese Nations in the World

Posted on September 24, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

BIRMINGHAM, UNITED KINGDOM–(Marketwire – Sept. 24, 2010) – Shocking research has revealed that the UK is a nation of overweight people, with many classed as dangerously overweight or morbidly obese.

Figures from the Office for National Statistics show that 24.5 per cent of adults in England were classed as obese in 2008, amounting to an 8.8 per cent increase since 1994 when only 15.7 per cent of adults were classed as dangerously overweight.

As concerns for the state of people’s health in the UK grow, so too does the amount of people who are dangerously overweight sparking fears that the UK is stuck in the middle of an obesity crisis that shows no signs of slowing down.

According to the World Health Organisation, also known as WHO, the UK has featured far more frequently in the their top 10 most obese nations list in the last few years and according to Nation Master.com the UK is ranked as the third most overweight nation only to be beaten by Mexico and the United States.

With 46 per cent of men in England and 32 per cent of women in England classes as overweight and an additional 17 per cent of men and 21 per cent of women classed as obsess it is hardly surprising that the NHS has seen an increase in the number of surgical procedures performed on obese patients in the last five years.

Those who are worried about being overweight should book a consultation with an expert bariatric surgeon at The Hospital Group.

The Hospital Group is the UK’s biggest provider of weight loss surgery, including gastric bands, gastric bypasses and gastric balloons.

David Ross, Chief Executive of The Hospital Group said: “Being overweight can affect every aspect of your life. Not only does it have a huge impact on your health, putting you at risk of diabetes, heart disease, strokes and depression but it can also cause low self esteem and confidence.

“Those who are overweight often find themselves in a vicious circle, they want to lose weight and become more healthy but are locked in a battle with overeating and don’t know how to change their bad and harmful eating habits.

“Our consultants ensure that, as well as having an absolute need for a gastric procedure, the patient understands that weight loss surgery isn’t a miracle cure and they would need to work with the band to achieve the healthier lifestyle they desire.”

Since The Hospital Group was established in 1992, it has risen to become the UK’s biggest weight loss surgery providers, performing more gastric procedures last year than the NHS.

The Hospital Group is committed to providing the very highest standards and all procedures are performed by an expert medical team in state-of-the-art facilities that are second to none.

For further information of The Hospital Group’s range of weight-loss procedures, surgery-seekers should visit the website www.thehospitalgroup.org or call our patient care coordinators on 0845 762 6727.

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Educate Patients During Dental Hygiene Month With Dental Marketing Solutions From Patient News

Posted on September 23, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Patient News

NEW YORK, NY and HALIBURTON, ON–(Marketwire – September 23, 2010) – October is National Dental Hygiene Month (NDHM) and it’s also the perfect time to create new dental marketing materials to reach out to your dental patients, says Patient News, a leading dental marketing solutions company.

Effective dentist/patient communication is essential to keeping patients, and a multi-channel patient retention campaign is extremely effective because it’s a means of sharing ideas and knowledge, not selling. NDHM is a great time for dental practitioners to ramp up their communication/marketing efforts and provide much needed and appreciated dental patient education to their patients.

“To build a vibrant and profitable practice it’s important to include a patient-centered marketing approach. Even the healthiest practice can’t help but lose patients over time due to natural attrition, competition, dissatisfaction, and perceived indifference,” said Karen Galley, President of Patient News. “Perceived indifference sends customers away nearly five times more often than dissatisfaction and seven times more often than for competitive reasons. A patient newsletter shows your patients you care.”

A consistent effort to communicate and educate patients, especially when paired with the efforts of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association in October, can reap measurable rewards. The ADHA website includes information to help promote events planned in honor of NDHM. Patient News can improve dentist/patient communications through their extensive resources, including an exceptional article library featuring stories about the importance of dental hygiene — clearly linked to overall health and systemic diseases.

“Although people continue to score smile and appearance of teeth as most important to their personal appearance and place a high value on oral health, more than 80% remain fearful of the dentist. It takes time and quality dental patient education via email and mail to encourage existing and prospective patients to make even a positive change,” said Galley. This type of communication can also assist dentists reduce no shows and cancellations, improving the overall health of the practice and patient community.

For more information on NDHM, visit ADHA.org. For additional information on dental newsletters or dental email newsletter options from Patient News call 800.667.0268 or visit www.Patientnews.com.

Read more: http://www.patientnews.com/pressreleases/educate-patients-during-dental-hygiene-month.html.

About Patient News:

Patient News is North America’s most trusted resource in helping dental practices succeed. The company produces award-winning healthcare and dental marketing products in Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

Contact:

Joanne Bishop
Vice-President, Patient News
800-667-0268

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Media Alert: An Important Update on Stem Cell Research in Toronto

Posted on September 22, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

TORONTO, ONTARIO–(Marketwire – Sept. 22, 2010) –

Attention: Health and Science Reporters, Assignment and Photo Editors. 

On September 23 2010, media are invited to an in-depth briefing with senior scientists on current stem cell research activity at the McEwen Centre for Regenerative Medicine. McEwen Centre Director, Dr. Gordon Keller will discuss eight “Accelerated Discoveries.” These are research initiatives that include a new project that will push the frontier forward for patients suffering from heart disease, the number one killer in the western world. 

Research at the McEwen Centre also holds important implications for diabetes, lung disease, diseases of the blood as well as neurodegenerative disease.

Please join us to learn more about this exciting research field. The tour will include an opportunity to interview senior scientists and gain new understanding of the latest developments in this cutting edge research. You are also invited to attend a Public Symposium on The Stem Cell Healthcare Revolution which follows the tour at 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Telephone interviews with senior scientists, the McEwens, and patient advocates can be arranged in advance.

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Medex, Inc. Announces New Hires and Facilities Expansions

Posted on September 22, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: MedEx, Inc.

Steps Intended to Increase Creative Rehab and Bee Mobile Revenues 30% With Commensurate Earnings Growth

LAS VEGAS, NV–(Marketwire – September 22, 2010) –  Medex, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: MDXX), today announced four strategic hires and several facilities expansions intended to foster significant revenue and earnings growth at the Company’s Creative Rehab Technology Services, Inc. and Bee Mobile, Inc. operations.

Kia Davis, 35, has been appointed service coordinator for Creative Rehab and will be based in that company’s newly relocated and expanded facility in Rancho Cucamonga, California. Davis will be responsible for new business development in the greater Los Angeles area as well as contracts management with a growing dealer network there and throughout the Inland Empire.

Additionally, Michael Spradley, 40, has been hired as a seating and mobility specialist. With significant industry contacts and related sales experience, he will be supported by two additional technician hires in San Diego and Escondido, California. These individuals will support sales at Creative Rehab and servicing contracts for Bee Mobile.

In related matters, Medex indicated that facility expansions are in progress at Creative Rehab’s headquarters in Chula Vista, California and that Bee Mobile, in addition to the above referenced Rancho Cucamonga relocation, has acquired an additional 5,000 square foot repair and warehouse facility in Fontana, California to improve efficiency and output of its capacities.

Medex also indicated that Bee Mobile is currently finalizing contractual arrangements with several dealers in the greater Las Vegas area to provide services and repair.

“Growth in demand for products and service necessitate capital investment for both plant infrastructure as well as key personnel. We anticipate that this investment should yield a 30% revenue growth for both companies combined with previously disclosed corresponding cumulative net margin improvement,” said Paul Protzman, President of Medex, Inc. “We are encouraged by current market response to these business lines.”

About Medex, Inc.

Medex, Inc. is a development stage Nevada-based medical support services company, which plans to grow through acquisitions of medical supply companies, medical technology companies, and assisted living and care facilities worldwide. For additional information, see www.medexsynergies.com.

Safe Harbor Statement:

This release contains “forward-looking statements” 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, and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. “Forward-looking statements” describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as “may,” “future,” “plan,” or “planned,” “will,” or “should,” “expected,” “anticipates,” “draft,” “eventually,” or “projected.” You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements.

Investor Contact:
MedEx, Inc.
1-800-869-1060

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Joint Commission Annual Report Shows Big Improvements for Hospital Care

Posted on September 22, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: The Joint Commission

Quality Performance Linked to Better Patient Outcomes

OAKBROOK TERRACE, IL–(Marketwire – September 22, 2010) –  Accredited hospitals in the United States are providing higher-quality, evidence-based care for heart attack, pneumonia, surgical care and children’s asthma care, according to Improving America’s Hospitals: The Joint Commission’s Report on Quality and Safety 2010. The report presents scientific evidence of improvement and how it relates to these common medical conditions and procedures.

“It is very encouraging that this year’s report shows high rates of performance on these critical process measures and high levels of consistent excellence among hospitals on many measures,” said Mark R. Chassin, M.D., M.P.P., M.P.H., president, The Joint Commission. “Hospitals devote enormous resources and energy to using these performance measures to drive improvement in their clinical processes. This report demonstrates that these efforts are resulting in consistently improving patient care in America’s hospitals.”

The fifth annual report shows continual improvement over an eight-year period on accountability measures — quality measures that meet four criteria designed to identify measures that produce the greatest positive impact on patient outcomes. For example, the 2009 heart attack care result is 97.7 percent, up from 88.6 percent in 2002. A 97.7 percent score means that hospitals provided an evidence-based heart attack treatment such as aspirin at arrival and beta-blockers at discharge 977 times for every 1,000 opportunities to do so.

The data, drawn from more than 3,000 accredited hospitals, show:

  • Significant progress in consistently using evidence-based treatments. In 2002, hospitals achieved 81.8 percent composite performance on 957,000 opportunities to perform care processes related to accountability measures. In 2009, hospitals achieved 95.4 percent composite performance on 12.5 million opportunities — an improvement of 13.6 percentage points.
  • Hospital performance on measures of quality relating to inpatient care for childhood asthma has increased dramatically in the two years since being introduced. The 2009 children’s asthma care result is 88.1 percent, up from 70.7 in 2007.
  • The 2009 pneumonia care result is 92.9 percent, up from 72.4 percent in 2002 — an improvement of 20.5 percentage points.
  • The surgical care result improved to 95.8 percent in 2009 from 77.4 percent in 2004.

Although hospitals achieved 90 percent or better performance on most individual process of care measures, the report contends that more improvement is needed. For example, hospitals finished 2009 with relatively low performance on the following two measures introduced in 2005:

  • Providing fibrinolytic therapy within 30 minutes of arrival to heart attack patients — only 55.2 percent of hospitals achieved 90 percent compliance or better.
  • Providing antibiotics to intensive care unit pneumonia patients within 24 hours of arrival — only 67.5 percent of hospitals achieved 90 percent compliance or better.

The report, which focuses on accountability measures for the first time, is an effort to clearly demonstrate the impact that performance measures have on improving patient outcomes. Doing so will strengthen the partnerships hospitals have with physicians, nurses, pharmacists and other clinicians who are engaged in the hard work of improving the processes of care. Specific expectations for performance on accountability measures will be included in hospital accreditation standards by 2012.

Quality, safety and patient satisfaction results for specific hospitals can be found at www.qualitycheck.org. For a complete copy of the report Improving America’s Hospitals: The Joint Commission’s Report on Quality and Safety 2010, please visit www.jointcommission.org.

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.

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

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

ForceLogix Technologies Inc. Announces Issuance of Common Shares Upon Conversion of Special Warrants

Posted on September 22, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: ForceLogixTechnologies Inc.

CHICAGO, IL–(Marketwire – September 22, 2010) – ForceLogix Technologies Inc. (TSX-V: FLT) www.ForceLogix.com (the “Company“) announced today that effective September 22, 2010, 340,216 common shares were issued to an Insider (as that term is defined in Exchange Policy 1.1) upon conversion of certain special warrants originally issued to holders at the closing of the Company’s Qualifying Transaction on November 30, 2009. Following issuance of said common shares, the Company has 61,202,615 common shares and 22,552,060 non-exercised special warrants outstanding. 

Neither the 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.

For further information please contact
Mr. Patrick Stakenas
President and Chief Executive Officer
ForceLogix Technologies Inc.
(847) 281-9307

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Electronic Control Security, Inc. Announces Fiscal 2010 Year-End Profitability

Posted on September 22, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Electronic Control Security, Inc.

CLIFTON, NJ–(Marketwire – September 22, 2010) –  Electronic Control Security, Inc. (OTCBB: EKCS) (ECSI), a leading provider of a broad line of electronic security system technologies to the government and private sectors, announced financial results for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2010.

Arthur Barchenko, President and CEO, stated, “We achieved our objective during fiscal 2010 to change the direction of the Company’s marketing effort from that of a prime contractor to the Department of Defense to that of a technology manufacturing resource and support service provider to the large system integrators, dealers/installers and, in certain cases, the end user i.e. nuclear power stations.

“To that end, we achieved net revenues of $4,513,737 for fiscal year 2010 as compared to $3,472,696 for fiscal year 2009, representing an increase of approximately 30%. The increase in net revenues during 2010 as compared to 2009 is attributable equally to increases in both government and private-sector related purchase orders.”

Gross margins for 2010 were 55% as compared to 28% of revenue for the 2009 Period. The increase in gross margin for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2010 compared to the corresponding period in 2009 is primarily attributable to a change in the order mix of equipment sales and support services. We experienced an increase in both higher margin equipment sales as well as design and engineering support service billings which, combined, resulted in the increase in gross margins for the Fiscal 2010 Period.

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased approximately 34% in the 2010 Period to $1,771,923 from $1,318,910 in 2009. The increase is partially attributable to costs relating to the U.N. project in Ethiopia where we incurred significant increases in freight and marketing related expenses. However, the major increase in costs related to management’s decision to recognize and write off certain receivables totaling $629,437 related to two overseas projects in Asia and the Middle East and uncollectible Department of Defense (DoD) program-related expenses. Although we attempted to resolve these issues during the past year, we have not been able to collect these receivables. Based on these results, management has made the decision not to seek the award of DoD prime contracts in the future. 

Mr. Barchenko stated that, “I am also pleased to announce that, on July 30, 2010, the Company paid off the principal balance of $100,000 plus interest completing its short and long-term convertible principal debt obligations.

“During fiscal 2010, the Company submitted proposals on projects for Department of Defense facilities and certain nuclear power stations in the United States and southeast Asia valued at approximately $13,650,000. A number of these DoD and nuclear projects amounting to $2.2 million was awarded and partially shipped during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2010. Most of these proposals are still pending and awaiting approval, funding and award. We anticipate decisions relating to these remaining proposals within the first half of fiscal 2011 with deliveries scheduled through the last six months of fiscal 2011 with deliveries scheduled through the last six months of fiscal 2011 and the first half of fiscal 2012.”

About ECSI

ECSI is a global leader in perimeter security and a quality provider to the Department of Defense, Department of Energy, nuclear power stations, and other large commercial-industrial complexes. The Company designs, manufactures and markets physical electronic security systems for high profile, high threat environments utilizing risk assessment and analysis to determine and address the security needs of its customers. Teaming agreements with major system integrators enable ECSI to support the installation and aftermarket of its products in the U.S. and overseas. ECSI is located at 790 Bloomfield Avenue, Bldg. C-1, Clifton, NJ 07012. Tel: 973-574-8555; Fax: 973-574-8562. For more information on ECSI and its customers, please visit http://www.ecsiinternational.com.

ECSI INTERNATIONAL, INC. SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT: This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve substantial uncertainties and risks. These forward-looking statements are based upon our current expectations, estimates and projections about our business and our industry and reflect our beliefs and assumptions based upon information available to us at the date of this release. We caution readers that forward-looking statements are predictions based on our current expectations about future events. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Our actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including but not limited to changes in economic conditions generally and in our industry specifically, changes in security technology, legislative or regulatory changes that affect us, the availability of working capital, timing of purchase orders, acceptance of company proposals, changes in costs and the availability of goods and services, the introduction of competing products, changes in our operating strategy or development plans, our ability to attract and retain qualified personnel, changes in our acquisition and capital expenditure plans, sufficiency of cash reserves and the risks and uncertainties discussed under the heading “RISK FACTORS” in Item 1 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2010 and in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We undertake no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statement for any reason.

For contact:
Natalie Schneider
973-574-8555

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Pharos Innovations Recognizes Industry Association Rebranding Effort

Posted on September 22, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Pharos Innovations

NORTHFIELD, IL–(Marketwire – September 22, 2010) – Pharos Innovations today congratulated the Care Continuum Alliance on the launch of its new brand and ongoing work on behalf of organizations and individuals providing healthcare at all stages of well-being.

The Care Continuum Alliance, established in 1999 as the Disease Management Association of America, has completed its transition to a new name and brand that reflect the industry’s evolution toward care across the continuum of health, from wellness and prevention to care management and more complex interventions.

Pharos Innovations, a Care Continuum Alliance member represented on the association’s Board of Directors, provides a unique IVR and Web-based remote patient monitoring/behavior change technology through its Tel-Assurance® program.

“The continuum of care is as much about keeping the healthy well and minimizing health risks as it is about managing specific conditions,” said Randall E. Williams, MD, CEO of Pharos Innovations. “With its new brand, the Care Continuum Alliance captures the broad variety and value of programs and products we and other CCA members provide.”

Care Continuum Alliance (CCA) members are uniquely positioned to contribute to new models of care and the drive toward wellness, prevention and health information technology spurred by federal reform initiatives. Pharos Innovations and other CCA members offer extensive expertise in health risk assessment, innovative technologies to promote healthful behaviors, care coordination across multiple settings and physician collaborations — skills and activities at the core of the reform law.

Pharos Innovations will exhibit this year at The Forum 10, the annual meeting of the Care Continuum Alliance, Oct. 13 to 15, in Washington, D.C. Visit Pharos at booth #416, at the Hilton Washington hotel, the Forum host site. Learn more about the Forum at TheForum10.org.

About Pharos Innovations
Pharos Innovations is actively involved in transforming the U.S. healthcare delivery system. Pharos offers IVR and Web-based behavior change services and tools that enable payers and providers to cost-effectively and efficiently manage their chronic care population.

Pharos’ main offering, Tel-Assurance, engages, motivates and drives improved self-care. Through Tel-Assurance, participants self-report their health status daily through the phone or Web. This unique approach actively engages individuals with chronic conditions in their healthcare and provides care managers/nurses with real-time information to intervene before symptoms escalate. Tel-Assurance has been proven an effective way to reduce avoidable, all-cause hospital admissions and readmissions and reduce overall healthcare costs among diverse populations.

The Pharos’ solution is strongly validated to show measured clinical improvement and financial impact, is the recipient of the prestigious American Heart Association National Outcomes award and was selected for the first ever National Institutes of Health (NIH) sponsored evaluation of remote monitoring interventions. For more information visit www.pharosinnovations.com or join in on the discussion at our blog, www.thecollaborativeforum.com.

Contact:
Shawn-Laree De St. Aubin
312-725.3740
Email Contact

Bonni L. Kaplan
Pharos Innovations
847-790-7649
Email Contact

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Wisconsin Hospitals Will Implement Send Word Now(R) Alert Service for Emergency Preparedness

Posted on September 22, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Send Word Now

Hospitals Throughout the State to Leverage Send Word Now’s On-Demand Notification Platform to Improve Communication and Coordination During Emergencies

NEW YORK, NY–(Marketwire – September 22, 2010) –  Send Word Now, the leading provider of emergency notification and on-demand incident management, alerting, and response services, announced today that The Wisconsin Hospital Emergency Preparedness Program will make Send Word Now’s Alert Service available to all hospitals in Wisconsin. The initiative sets a new standard for hospital management and a model for unified communications across a state-wide health care network.

“We were looking for a notification system that could meet our communications needs, and specifically for a system that is easy to use,” affirmed Bob Ritger, Operations Officer for the Emergency Preparedness Program. He added, “Having one system throughout the state will allow us to implement our messaging strategies more easily and consistently throughout Wisconsin hospitals. We look forward to working with Send Word Now on this project over the long-term.”

Tony Schmitz, President and CEO of Send Word Now, said, “We are extremely proud to be able to provide our services to hospitals in Wisconsin. Send Word Now is well suited to support these hospital emergency preparedness initiatives based on its experience and expertise in servicing healthcare providers and hospitals across the country.” 

About Send Word Now

Send Word Now is the leading provider of on-demand alerting and incident management services for both routine and emergency communication. The easy-to-use, web-based emergency notification service is used by government agencies, municipalities, universities, non-profit organizations and businesses, including many Fortune 500 companies, to ensure fast, effective, two-way communication in real-time. Send Word Now’s Alert Tracer® provides a full audit trail of messages sent and received for after-action reporting and follow-up. Designed to reach anyone, anywhere, anytime, with any device over any type of connection, Send Word Now’s mass notification system is capable of transmitting hundreds of thousands of voice and text messages in minutes. The company is headquartered in New York City. Visit Send Word Now on the web at http://www.sendwordnow.com or email us at [email protected]. Follow Send Word Now on Twitter at http://twitter.com/sendwordnow and check out our new blog for industry news and insights at http://www.sendwordnow.com/Company/Blog.

About The Wisconsin Hospital Emergency Preparedness Program

The Wisconsin Hospital Emergency Preparedness Program supports hospital emergency preparedness planning and response to mass casualty incidents or pandemic events. The Wisconsin Hospital Emergency Preparedness Program is funded by the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR) in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). 

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Media Alert: New Clinical Findings on Efficacy and Safety of Negative Pressure Wound Therapy to Be Presented at Fall 2010 Symposium on Advanced Wound…

Posted on September 22, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Spiracur, Inc.

Poster Highlights First Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Market Leading Kinetic Concepts, Inc. Wound V.A.C.® System to Spiracur® SNaP® Wound Care System for Treatment of Chronic Lower Extremity Wounds

ANAHEIM, CA–(Marketwire – September 22, 2010) – Leading wound care experts will present a Poster highlighting results from a multicenter randomized controlled trial (RCT) comparing negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) between the SNaP® Wound Care System from Spiracur, Inc., of Sunnyvale, Calif., and the Wound V.A.C.® Therapy System from Kinetic Concepts, Inc. of San Antonio, Texas, for the treatment of chronic lower extremity ulcers. The Poster will be presented at the Fall 2010 Symposium on Advanced Wound Care (SAWC) in Anaheim, Calif.

Background:  The SNaP Wound Care System is an ultraportable and disposable NPWT device that was approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) in August 2009 in a new technology category the FDA defined as “non-powered” NPWT devices. It is currently available for purchase in the U.S. The new system produces the same level of negative pressure as competitive technologies; however, it requires no electric or battery power making treatment completely silent. In addition, the therapy system weighs less than three ounces, enabling patients to wear the device under clothing and resume daily activity during the course of treatment.

About Spiracur, Inc.
Spiracur, Inc. is a privately held medical device company focused on the development of innovative wound healing technologies. Spiracur was founded out of the Stanford Biodesign Innovation program in 2007. Its first product, the SNaP Wound Care System, grew out of the notion that current negative pressure wound therapies were too cumbersome for patients and clinicians. Spiracur strives to develop products that are truly patient-centric. For more information, please visit http://www.spiracur.com.

SNaP and Spiracur are registered trademarks of Spiracur, Inc.

Media Contact:
Amy Cook
925.552.7893
Email Contact

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

UV Flu Technologies UV-400 Air Purifier Fights Superbugs and Bacteria

Posted on September 22, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: UV Flu Technologies, Inc.

CENTERVILLE, MA–(Marketwire – September 22, 2010) –  UV Flu Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB: UVFT) (the “Company”) announced today that in response to recent outbreaks of drug resistant superbugs such as NDM-1, and persistent occurrences of highly contagious strains of bacteria such as MRSA, the Company is implementing a national campaign to inform the public how its ViraTech UV-400 indoor air purifier significantly helps reduce exposure risks.

Dr. Wladyslaw Jan Kowalski, PE, Phd, a world leading expert on the bacteria killing efficacy of ultraviolet light, recently commented on the UV-400: “Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) destroys bacteria by damaging the nucleic acids and thereby preventing reproduction. Multidrug-resistant microbes (superbugs) may have resistance to antibiotics but they remain as susceptible to ultraviolet radiation as any normal bacteria variant. The number of multidrug resistant microbes has been increasing, apparently due to overuse of antibiotics and other factors, and is expected to pose a serious challenge to health care facilities in the future as treatment options diminish.”

Dr. Kowalski further added, “The ViraTech UV-400 model air cleaner has a demonstrated ability to disinfect air and inactivate a wide range of bacterial pathogens including Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Pseudomonas, and Klebsiella as has been conclusively demonstrated in independent laboratory tests. The UV-400 produces a germicidal UV exposure dose of 41 J/m2, as independently verified by biodosimetric testing, which is sufficient to reduce pathogenic bacterial populations by at least 99%. This disinfection rate will apply regardless of the multidrug resistance of bacteria such as those that may contain the NDM-1 enzyme (the superbug gene). The ViraTech UV-400 unit provides a viable option for health care facilities struggling to cope with the growing problem of multidrug resistant organisms and this technology can serve as an adjunct to existing infection management procedures and disinfection protocols wherever the potential exists for microorganisms to spread by the airborne route.”

“Our Company receives reports from around the world on an almost daily basis about the growing problems connected with the spread of these increasingly drug resistant bacterial strains,” said Jack Lennon, President of UV Flu Technologies. “Antibiotics have become so pervasive in today’s medical therapies, that not only are they becoming less effective, but their overuse is increasingly being considered as part of the problem. Drug-resistant superbugs have now been found in 20 states, as well as worldwide, and when they hit the critically ill, they can be fatal 30-60% of the time. In one recent incident at an infant ward at the University College Hospital in London, 15 babies in the unit were found to be carrying several types of bacteria, including 13 who had bacterial superbugs resistant to treatment. Of four babies seriously infected, one survived.”

“So that the public can participate in actions to help reduce the spread of these strains, the Company has committed to advertising, including television and other media in order to educate consumers and to offer help where needed,” said Mr. Lennon. “We are looking to develop a plan to offer our UV-400 indoor air quality units either free or at significantly discounted costs to those schools and hospitals that suffer from serious outbreaks. We hope to partner with institutions which are genuinely interested in working with us in order to develop an action plan for their facilities. For those with respiratory problems or weakened immune systems, hospital or institution acquired bacterial infections can prove deadly. We believe our product delivers an immediate, effective and proven ability to kill at least 99% of airborne bacteria thereby reducing the risk of infection.”

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. VIRATECH UV-400 is a Class II medical device and is available without a prescription. 

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: Facilities And Providers

Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital Selects BI Solution From Information Builders

Posted on September 22, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Information Builders

Dutch Cancer Institute Implements WebFOCUS Platform to Support Organizational Expansion

AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS–(Marketwire – September 22, 2010) –  Information Builders, the independent leader in operational business intelligence (BI) systems, today announced that The Dutch Cancer Institute — Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital (NKI-AVL) has implemented the WebFOCUS BI platform. Using Information Builders’ technology, the NKI-AVL is able to optimize internal processes and to reduce operational costs.

The NKI-AVL consists of a center for scientific cancer research, the Dutch Cancer Institute, and an oncologic hospital, the Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital. The NKI-AVL collaborates with national and foreign hospitals and laboratories and fulfills a leading role with regard to new developments in the fight against cancer.

This year, the NKI-AVL started an expansion process with the ultimate goal of growing up to 45 percent within the next ten years. To facilitate its growth, the institute needed to increase efficient operational processes and decrease operational costs. To measure the efficiency targets in the expansion plan and to gain better insight into costs, the NKI-AVL decided to select a suitable reporting and analysis environment. 

After a comprehensive and detailed tendering process, based on a pilot project, the NKI-AVL selected Information Builders’ WebFOCUS. The BI platform will first be deployed to gain insights in the production and financial information from the SAP and ChipSoft systems. In the second phase, all the research data from the NKI-AVL will be extracted as well.

“WebFOCUS is a multilateral platform. Many other BI solutions mainly focus on finance, while with this platform we are perfectly able to extract and share our healthcare and research information as well,” says Michel Glintmeijer, Head of Information and Financial Services at the NKI-AVL. “We used to connect SAP and ChipSoft through Excel, now we can rely on one reporting tool for all systems. With this solution, we gain much more insight in a much shorter time frame. Ultimately, we will set up a data warehouse and will start with forecasting based on scenario analytics.”

“We are very pleased that the NKI-AVL has selected Information Builders as a strategic partner to implement process optimization and aid with organizational growth,” says Dave Kemme, sales manager, Benelux, at Information Builders. “WebFOCUS offers the NKI-AVL the opportunity to present all relevant information company wide to the management and employees. Furthermore, the organization can start working with scenario planning based on analysis. An extra advantage is that the NKI-AVL will be able to measure governmental performance indicators that are automatically included in WebFOCUS.”

About NKI-AVL
The Dutch Cancer Institute-Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital (NKI-AVL) accommodates approximately 550 scientists and scientific support personnel, 53 medical specialists, 180 beds, an outpatient clinic that receives 24,000 new patients each year, 5 operating theaters, and 9 irradiation units. It is the only dedicated cancer center in The Netherlands and maintains an important role as a national and international center of scientific and clinical expertise, development, and training. The three major areas of research are fundamental, clinical, and translational cancer research.

From its first inception, the NKI-AVL is convinced close collaboration between scientists and clinicians is essential to fighting cancer. Having a laboratory and hospital under one roof in a single independent organization with an open and collaborative atmosphere has led to many important discoveries and improved therapies.

About Information Builders
Information Builders’ award-winning combination of business intelligence (BI) and enterprise integration software has been providing innovative solutions to more than 12,000 customers for the past 30 years. WebFOCUS is the world’s most widely utilized business intelligence platform. It provides the security, scalability, and flexibility needed at every level of global extended enterprises. Its simplicity helps create executive, analytical, and operational applications that reach dozens to millions of users. Information Builders’ iWay Software suite provides state of the art, multi-purpose, pre-built integration components that address all SOA, application, data and information management requirements. Its integration adapters have been adopted by the leading software platform providers. Information Builders also offers solutions in the performance management, business activity monitoring, and enterprise search markets. The company’s comprehensive enterprise product offerings give Information Builders’ customers the ability to grow and innovate according to their needs.

Information Builders’ customers include most of the Fortune 100 and U.S. federal government agencies. Headquartered in New York City with 90 offices worldwide, the company employs 1,450 people and has more than 350 business partners. More information is available at informationbuilders.com.

Press Contacts
Kathleen Moran
Information Builders
(917) 339-6313
[email protected]

Erica Salamida
LEWIS PR
(617) 226-8845
[email protected]

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Vicor Technologies’ CEO David Fater Interviewed for The Wall Street Transcript Medical Devices Report

Posted on September 22, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Vicor Technologies, Inc.

BOCA RATON, FL–(Marketwire – September 22, 2010) –  Vicor Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB: VCRT), today announced that CEO David Fater’s interview by The Wall Street Transcript for its September 20, 2010 Medical Devices Report is now available for download at the company’s website: www.vicortech.com. 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 gratified to have been given the opportunity to discuss Vicor’s product commercialization status in The Wall Street Transcript‘s Medical Devices Report. This is an exciting time for Vicor and we’re eager to share our progress with those following the evolving medical device industry,” stated Mr. Fater.

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 Institute for Surgical Research 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 10-16

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

Life Uniform Introduces Laura Ashley Medical Apparel

Posted on September 22, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Life Uniform

ST. LOUIS, MO–(Marketwire – September 22, 2010) –  Life Uniform, the leader for today’s healthcare fashion trends, will be launching a new and exclusive collection of Laura Ashley medical apparel on September 30th, 2010 nationwide. Building on a tradition of providing fashion-forward styles, innovative products, the most popular brands, and exclusive styles for 45 years, Life Uniform will introduce their latest fashion in medical scrubs under the Laura Ashley name. Laura Ashley has granted exclusive licensing rights to Life Uniform to design, manufacture, and sell medical scrub tops and pants through their retail outlets and online.

“The Life Uniform and Laura Ashley collaboration is a great opportunity to offer consumers fashionable, affordable, and premium quality medical apparel that encompasses the essence of two great brands,” says Life Uniform’s President and CEO Jim Rudd. “We are excited to bring another fashion choice to our customers who look for distinctive designs that reflect their own individual style.”

“The field of healthcare is dominated by women who are looking for styles and colors that reflect their individual personalities,” says Laura Ashley Vice President of Licensing Penne Cairoli. “We believe the classic yet contemporary style of Laura Ashley will resonate exceptionally well with so many of the dedicated professionals throughout this field.”

The new Laura Ashley medical scrubs can be found in all Life stores and online beginning September 30th, 2010 with a special in-store celebration on that day to include refreshments and drawings.

About Life Uniform
Life Uniform, headquartered in St. Louis, MO, has been providing fashionable medical uniforms and accessories since 1965. With nearly 200 stores nationwide, on premise hospital stores and a sophisticated online store, Life Uniform is a one-stop shopping destination for all healthcare apparel, medical uniforms, scrubs, nurses shoes, lab coats, hosiery and healthcare accessory needs. Life Uniform represents top brands including Cherokee, Dickies, Barco, Landau, Koi, Dansko and many others, including exclusive merchandise that only Life carries including the new Laura Ashley line of medical scrubs. They also sell their own product line, Life Uniform, which reflects the Life philosophy of STYLE and VALUE.

For more information, visit Life Uniform or call Deb Weis, VP of Marketing at 314-824-2906.

About Laura Ashley
Laura Ashley, Inc., headquartered in Fort Mill, S.C., is the master franchising and licensing holder of the Laura Ashley brand in North and South America. The company strives to be the ultimate destination brand for home products, women’s wear and children’s wear. Licensed categories include bed linen, mattresses, women and children’s clothing and accessories, and much more. For additional information visit www.lauraashley-usa.com.

Contact:

Deb Weis
VP of Marketing
314-824-2906

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

New Research May Prove SE Concepts’ Flagship Results in More Medical Benefits Than Expected

Posted on September 22, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Simulated Environment Concepts

Weight Loss, Cellulite Reduction & Improved Circulation May Just Be a Few Benefits Dermscan’s Research Report May Uncover With Each Use of the Spa Capsule

MIAMI, FL–(Marketwire – September 22, 2010) –  Simulated Environment Concepts (PINKSHEETS: SMEV) a/k/a SE Concepts, manufacturer and developer of medical, aesthetic and wellness equipment, announced that the Dermscan Group is close to wrapping up its clinical trial research on the SpaCapsule and the equipment’s medical benefits.

Dr. Ella Frenkel, Chairman and CEO of Simulated Environment Concepts, Inc. said, “SE Concepts tirelessly strives to develop products which return dividends to our customers by way of overall improved health. The Spa Capsule does just that. In allowing users to not only feel de-stressed and refreshed after each therapeutic session, but internally renewed, we’re able to deliver a product to the medical and wellness community that simply pays for itself.”

The international cosmetic and clinical research company, Dermscan, began its study during late spring of this year with an expected completion time of early to late October 2010. Due to the great emphasis on weight loss, cellulite reduction and therapeutic use in Europe, Dermscan took to task proving just a few of the medical benefits derived from using the SpaCapsule. Results of the study are anticipated to lend to the increasing international appeal of the SpaCapsule — possibly doubling its current global distribution commitment.

Dr. Ilya Spivak, Marketing Director and co-inventor of the SpaCapsule stated, “From this study we deduce that the Spa Capsule will continue to grow as a medical apparatus that is a ‘must have’ by the physical therapy, rehabilitation and pain management community. Being a doctor myself, many times I’ve witnessed the reversing affects that the Spa Capsule has on ailments. Frankly, it is quite amazing.”

Sources close to SE Concepts say the company is receiving much international fan fare from the incredible results achieved by those continuously using the Spa Capsule. It is strongly believed a positive reporting from Dermscan will continue to fuel the current growth of the product within the medical and wellness industries 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, 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: Facilities And Providers

Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Selects Oracle for Health Insurance Claims Adjudication Solution

Posted on September 20, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Oracle Corporation

#1 Commercial Health Plan in America Seeks to Rapidly Implement State of the Art Technology to Respond to Dynamic Business Environment

SAN FRANCISCO, CA–(Marketwire – September 20, 2010) –  ORACLE OPENWORLD — Oracle (NASDAQ: ORCL)

News Facts

  • Harvard Pilgrim Health Care, Inc., the number one commercial health plan in America for five straight years, according to U.S.News & World Report and the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), has chosen Oracle Health Insurance to build its core claims adjudication solution.
  • The Oracle Health Insurance Claims solution will be the first application resulting from the combination of Oracle’s European health insurance market experience and intellectual property with the Oracle Insurance rules-based adaptive application strategy. The combination provides the foundation for the next generation of core Oracle Health Insurance applications, delivering the configurability required to address critical time-to-market issues for implementing new health benefits and those resulting from United States regulatory changes.
  • The service-oriented-architecture (SOA)-based solution offers numerous integration points and a phased approach to system replacement, enabling Harvard Pilgrim to simplify and extend its existing multi-claims platform environment, reducing system integration and custom coding requirements, and ultimately its total cost of IT systems ownership.
  • The solution supports the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems 10th Revision (ICD-10), which is mandated for adoption in the United States by 2013.
  • Claims adjudication for all types of claims and alternative reimbursement models will be highly automated in the solution, minimizing the need for human intervention. This will enhance comprehensive straight-through processing capabilities, driving down claims processing costs.
  • Critical back-office processes will be streamlined based on the solution’s integration with Harvard Pilgrim’s Oracle E-Business Suite (Oracle Financials).
  • The solution will replace a legacy system that is not equipped to support the ICD-10 mandate and is costly to adapt to other new regulatory requirements and market challenges.
  • The solution is being built by Oracle Health Insurance, a newly formed group within Oracle Insurance, the business unit created within Oracle to focus on the unique challenges of its global insurance customers.
  • Dell Services, Harvard Pilgrim’s technology and business process outsourcing partner, will work with Oracle to implement the Oracle solution.

Supporting Quotes

  • “U.S. health insurance payers are facing the most fundamental shift in their history. We must have systems to support rapidly changing product portfolios and the pending requirements of Federal healthcare reform,” said Deborah Norton, Chief Information Officer, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care, Inc. “Oracle’s European solution for claims adjudication, currently the dominant application in The Netherlands, addresses that hybrid public/private market with a uniquely flexible solution. Oracle’s proposal to combine this with a native service-oriented-architecture approach provides Harvard Pilgrim with a timely and compelling solution.”
  • “Oracle Insurance welcomes the opportunity to collaborate with Harvard Pilgrim in a collaboration that represents our entry into the U.S. core health insurance applications market — an area in which Oracle Insurance sees extensive room for growth as insurers seek solutions to help them navigate major industry changes,” said Michiel Walsteijn, Senior Director, Oracle Health Insurance. “With Harvard Pilgrim, we will bring to life our vision of the adaptive health insurer, one that can be nimble and profitable while managing regulatory change.”

Supporting Resources

  • Oracle Insurance
  • Oracle Insurance on Twitter
  • Join the Oracle Insurance Community on Facebook
  • Join the Oracle Insurance Group on LinkedIn

About Oracle
Oracle (NASDAQ: ORCL) provides the most complete, open, and integrated business software and hardware systems in the world. For more information about Oracle, visit oracle.com

About Harvard Pilgrim
Harvard Pilgrim is a not-for-profit health plan that provides a variety of health benefit options and funding arrangements to more than one million members in Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine. Harvard Pilgrim, for the fifth consecutive year, was named the #1 commercial health plan in America according to a joint ranking by U.S.News & World Report and the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA)*. For more information, please visit www.harvardpilgrim.org.

Trademark
Oracle and Java are registered trademarks of Oracle and/or its affiliates. Other names may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Contact Info
Katie Barron
Oracle
+1.703.364.2488
Email Contact

Mary Tobin
O’Keeffe and Company
+1.503.658.7396
Email Contact

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

RecMan Releases World’s First Compliance and Records Management Software for Google Apps(TM)

Posted on September 20, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: RecMan Inc.

Enables Millions of Additional Users to Flock to Google Apps Without Being in Violation of Compliance Standards

AUSTIN, TX–(Marketwire – September 20, 2010) –  RecMan Inc., today announced the availability of RecMan for Google Apps™, the world’s first web-based compliance and records management software designed to ensure policy and regulation compliance for millions of Google Apps™ users.

More than 20 million users within businesses, government agencies, schools and other organizations world-wide have switched to Google Apps. Unfortunately, many of them cannot use all of the applications within Google Apps since it does not have any built-in document compliance or records management features to meet organizational standards and legal regulations.

“By adding records management and compliance features to Google Apps, corporations, government and organizations of any size now have the ability to centrally apply document access control, retention and disposition policies. This enables compliance with HIPAA, Sarbanes Oxley, FERPA and other regulations, as well as internal policies,” says Richard Roberts, President and CEO of RecMan, Inc. “Records management and compliance features are usually only part of big expensive enterprise systems, but now those same capabilities are available in Google Apps for a fraction of the price.”

With the release of RecMan it can be expected that millions of additional users will flock to Google Apps, confident that they can be in full compliance with organization and government regulations.

On July 26, 2010 Google announced it was one of the first to receive certification and accreditation to provide cloud computing services to government agencies and private sector affiliations. Google is aware of the critical role that enterprise-grade records management and compliance occupies.

At the 2009 Gartner Symposium/ITxpo in Orlando, Eric Schmidt, CEO of Google, was asked how the company plans to meet compliance standards and regulations for information stored in the cloud. Schmidt responded that, “It’s time now for people to figure out how to take their business logic and connect it using our APIs to our underlying data stores,” thereby opening the door for third party vendors to help meet compliance needs.

The release of RecMan for Google Apps meets these needs and supports the three main standards for compliance and electronic records management including ISO 15489, DoD 5015.2 and MoReq2. RecMan for Google Apps enables records managers and compliance officers to easily and quickly apply organizational policies to all of the information stored in Google Apps.

RecMan for Google Apps meets five critical compliance needs espoused by ARMA International, the Association of Records Managers and Administrators, including a) centrally controlled document access management, b) document classification policy management, c) retention policy management, d) destruction and disposition policy management, e) legal hold management.

There is minimal training required to implement RecMan. Once the Records Manager or compliance officer sets up the policy information, users can drag and drop their document into the appropriate shared folder or choose it from the folder menu of Google Docs. The document then falls under the control of RecMan for Google Apps, enabling all of the access and retention policies of the organization to be applied automatically.

RecMan for Google Apps is available in the Google Apps Marketplace for $18 per user annually. It will also be available from a growing number of system integrators and resellers. For more information about RecMan for Google Apps, you can visit http://www.RecMan.net. 

About RecMan Inc.
RecMan Inc. is a venture funded start-up to provide world-class compliance and records management software. With offices in Austin, TX and Yokohama, Japan, RecMan was developed by Richard Roberts, the same designer that engineered the world’s first web-based compliance and records management software that is used by thousands of users world-wide. RecMan for Google Apps is the world’s first and only application that brings enterprise-grade records management and compliance to Google Apps.

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APHL Commends U.S. Senate for Preserving New Health Reform Law: Threat to Unravel Prevention and Public Health Fund Defeated

Posted on September 20, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Association of Public Health Laboratories

SILVER SPRING, MD–(Marketwire – September 20, 2010) –  The Association of Public Health Laboratories (APHL) and its members commend the 52 Members of the United States Senate who on September 14 voted against the elimination of funding for the Prevention and Public Health Fund, which was created in the Affordable Care Act (ACA), the federal health reform law. This action assures that much-needed increases in federal support for public health laboratory operations will occur in federal fiscal years 2010 – 2015; jobs will be saved, surveillance and detection of harmful outbreaks will be increased and the health of Americans will improve.

Voting on a procedural matter (Roll Call Vote #231), the Senate rejected an amendment offered by Senator Mike Johanns (R-Nebraska) that would have used the resources in the Fund as an off-set on a matter wholly unrelated to the health of Americans.

In federal fiscal year 2010, the Fund will provide an increase in resources of almost fifty percent for activities that will improve the surveillance and detection of foodborne disease outbreaks and of emerging and re-emerging infectious disease outbreaks, while advancing the completeness of electronic health records. It is likely that the Fund will supply a doubling of funding for these activities in federal fiscal year 2011.

The significance of the eight-vote margin by which the amendment was defeated is greater when the extraordinarily strong push by the business community for the amendment is considered. Even in the face of this great success, the public health community nonetheless remains vigilant for the likely continuous attempts to siphon off the Fund for other uses and all other attacks to overturn the ACA and harm the health of Americans.

“The public health community came together quickly and cohesively in the effort to protect the Prevention and Public Health Fund from this attack,” said APHL Executive Director Scott Becker. “This accomplishment will be easily replicated for any future attempts to reduce or eliminate the Fund and should send a very clear message to those who seek other uses for it: ‘Hands Off!'”

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
Senior Media Specialist
240.485.2793
Email Contact

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Children’s Hospital Boston Plans to Deploy On-Cue Software Solution From Allocade Throughout Entire Radiology Department

Posted on September 20, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Allocade Inc.

Hospital Uses Artificial Intelligence System to Advance Pediatric Care

MENLO PARK, CA–(Marketwire – September 20, 2010) –  Allocade, Inc., the developer of healthcare’s most advanced tools to orchestrate patient flow, today announced that Children’s Hospital Boston plans to expand implementation of the On-Cue® Operations Management Software suite throughout its Radiology Department. Children’s Hospital Boston originally deployed On-Cue in the hospital’s Interventional Radiology (IR) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) areas, and worked closely with Allocade to ensure that the application met the complex needs of a pediatric site.

On-Cue is powered by an Artificial Intelligence engine, which automatically adapts to disruptions as they occur. This generates the industry’s only Dynamic Patient Itinerary — a real time list of each patient’s procedures and related preparatory tasks.

“On-Cue helped to make our processes for communication more efficient,” said Sharon Silk, M.P.H., director, radiology quality management and operations improvement, Children’s Hospital Boston. “The new system offers an easy way to capture meaningful metrics, which are necessary for making operational improvements.”

“As a communication tool, the impact of implementing On-Cue was apparent immediately,” said Richard L. Robertson, Jr., M.D., acting radiologist-in-chief, Children’s Hospital Boston. “Within the first hours of go-live, the number of telephone calls between the control room and reading room decreased dramatically. The ability to see patient status at a glance and communicate directly with the technologists performing the exam allows the radiologists to focus on image interpretation, which leads to greater efficiency in patient turnover.”

The On-Cue core technology was conceived by Don Rosenthal, founder and chief technology officer of Allocade. At NASA, Rosenthal led the Artificial Intelligence Applications Group in the NASA Ames Research Center. He was also part of the team that developed the dynamic rescheduling software that optimally utilized the limited resources on the Hubble Space Telescope. The company’s patented Schedule Repair™ technology augments information already available in Hospital Information Systems (HIS), Radiology Information Systems (RIS) and Electronic Medical Record Systems (EMR), by adding a layer of intelligence to these systems.

About Allocade, Inc.
Allocade Inc., headquartered in Menlo Park, Calif., is a healthcare software company that develops tools to intelligently optimize patient flow throughout the hospital. The company’s first product is the On-Cue Hospital Operations Management system. Allocade’s management team includes former top executives from NASA Ames Research Center, Fujifilm Corporation, and Stentor. For more information about Allocade and the On-Cue Software Solution, visit www.allocade.com.

On-Cue is a registered trademark of Allocade, Inc.

Allocade Media Contact:
Amy Cook
925.552.7893
Email Contact

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Electronic Health Records Pioneer WritePad(TM) Applies for EHR Certification

Posted on September 16, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Addison

WritePad Applies to the Drummond Group for EHR Certification

DALLAS, TX–(Marketwire – September 16, 2010) – Addison Health Systems, Inc. (AHS), considered a pioneer (since 1996) of Electronic Health Records with its WritePad™ EHR product line, has applied on September 1st for October 2010 EHR certification with the Austin-based Drummond Group, Inc. AHS has been very successful by offering unique capabilities for computerizing doctor specialties in pain management, alternative, sports medicine, behavioral psych, occupational and pain/rehab care.

The U.S. government announced in February of 2009, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). The ARRA act included $19 billion under the portion of its HITECH Act to promote the adoption of Electronic Health Record (EHR) technology in healthcare. Starting in 2011, medical providers can receive up to $44,000 or more by demonstrating what has termed as “meaningful use” of certified EHR technology to be eligible for government funds. 

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through its Office of National Coordinator for Health IT (ONC), has awarded certification accreditation to two organizations: The Certification Commission for Health Information Technology (CCHIT) and Drummond Group, Inc. Drummond Group announced it would be taking applications immediately while CCHIT will start taking applications on September 20, 2010. 

“It has been a long process of waiting for the ONC to determine what organizations would be put in charge of EHR accreditation. Thus AHS made the decision to move forward immediately with Drummond Group, Inc. on the 1st allowable sign up date so our thousands of clients could be eligible for up $44,000 stimulus money,” said Greg Winterkamp, CEO/President of AHS. “In fact with our ePrescribing partner, WritePad will accomplish ARRA certification from both Drummond and CCHIT!”

Drummond Group brings years of government software certification experience to the table. The company had been involved with the ONC throughout its evaluation of certification organizations. CCHIT was originally appointed by the government in 2005 as the sole certification organization and had certified EHRs under the CCHIT-created guidelines. However, with the ARRA legislation, the federal government (ONC) was provided the authority to refine and add additional criteria that now make up the new meaningful use guidelines.

“I think it is crucial that an additional certifying organization was added. Competition brings down certifying costs and adds additional controls to define practical capability providers need for using an EHR. The term ‘meaningful use’ is a product of this.” Mr. Winterkamp added, “I was very skeptical when the government got involved in the definition of the certification guidelines however, I have been impressed that so much has been done in a short period of time. The Stage 1 guidelines that the ONC has defined for 2011 certification are helpful to allow many providers to incorporate EHRs in an efficient manner.”

Scott Giddiens, Director of Sales at AHS, stated, “We are proud that WritePad will be one of the first EHRs to be certified in the U.S.! That is very important for our clients and the many prospective doctors that have been sitting on the fence waiting, to get the assurance that our EHR will be government certified.”

About Addison Health Systems, Inc.

Addison Health Systems, Inc. has been in business since 1985. With the release of the WritePad’s EHR in 1996, AHS became a pioneer in computerizing doctors. The WritePad suite of products is being used by over 4,500 physicians and, with support staff, over 17,000 users daily for their clinical documentation needs. Patients can log into stations and fill out intake information that automatically updates into the doctor’s workflow of encounter data. WritePad is utilized by pain management, chiropractic, PMR, physical therapy, osteopathic and many other physical medicine and rehabilitative care facilities and hospitals. From electronic billing, practice management, EHR documentation, ePrescribing to 3-dimensional patient education and exercise videos, the WritePad increases clinical compliance, efficiency and 3rd party reimbursements. For further information, visit http://www.writepad.com

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Center for Technology and Aging Report Examines Technologies That Help Improve Transitions From Hospital to Home and Reduce Readmissions

Posted on September 16, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Center for Technology and Aging

OAKLAND, CA–(Marketwire – September 16, 2010) –  Every day thousands of patients are readmitted to hospitals because they did not get adequate follow-up care following their previous hospitalization. In fact, 18% of patients are readmitted to a hospital within 30 days of discharge — and as many as 76% of these readmissions are preventable. The most recent national figures on health care expenditures indicate that unplanned hospital readmissions cost Medicare $17.4 billion in a single year. In its latest report, “Technologies for Improving Post-Acute Care Transitions,” the Center for Technology and Aging examines how the use of a variety of existing technologies could dramatically reduce readmissions.

“Several technologies are widely available and have potential to support post-acute care transitions, but they are underutilized,” said David Lindeman, Ph.D., Director of the Center for Technology and Aging. “Home-use technologies help decrease readmissions in a variety of ways, including engaging patients and caregivers in ways that promote better communication, medication adherence, and monitoring of chronic conditions.”

The complete report is available for download at www.techandaging.org.

The report covers four post-acute care transition (PACT) technology focus areas. Included is information such as technology definitions, how they are used in the home, their impact on readmissions, and charts that compare basic features of various technologies.

  • Medication adherence technologies
    • Non-adherence is responsible for 33% to 69% of medication related hospital readmissions.
    • Four categories are described in a chart that lists sample technologies, pros/cons of each, market stage, economics, and what function each fills in the medication adherence spectrum.
  • Medication reconciliation technologies
    • “Med-rec” seeks to reduce adverse drug events. Twenty percent of discharged patients experience an adverse event and 2/3 of those are medication related.
    • A chart lists seven tools that help patients maintain an accurate list of medications, a description of each tool, and the organizations sponsoring them.

(More on medication optimization technologies is available in the Center’s report, “Technologies for Optimizing Medication Use in Older Adults.”)

  • Remote patient monitoring (RPM) technologies
    • A chart shows RPM capabilities and applications.
    • A discussion of the VHA’s use of and research on Health Buddy.
    • A chart describing seven popular remote patient monitoring devices: Health Buddy, Telestation, Genesis DM, Intel’s Health Guide, LifeView, Ideal LIFE Pod, and Healthanywhere.

(More information is available in the Center’s report, “Technologies for Remote Patient Monitoring in Older Adults.”)

  • Health information and communication technologies (ICT)
    • Personal health records and information — includes a description of the Stepping Stones Project of Whatcom County.
    • Web-based social networking — including a description of Tyze, www.tyze.org, which provides secure, online personal support networks.
    • Remote training and supervision technologies — includes a description of Rest Assured, and a Visiting Nurse Service of New York demonstration project.

According to the report, ICT enables timely access to vital health information. It points out that when ICT is used in conjunction with devices that monitor health parameters in the home, care becomes continuous rather than episodic. And, according to Dr. Lindeman, “care becomes patient-centered, rather than facility-centered.”

The report includes a description of four well-known care transition models with varying use of home-based technologies. The models are: the Care Transitions Intervention (www.caretransitions.org), Guided Care (www.guidedcare.org), the Transitional Care Model (www.innovativecaremodels.com/care_models/21/overview), and Geriatric Resources for Assessment and Care of Elders (www.medicine.iupui.edu/iucar/research/grace.asp).

The Center for Technology and Aging (www.techandaging.org) supports more rapid adoption and diffusion of technologies that enhance independence and improve home and community-based care for older adults. Through grants, research, public policy involvement and development of practical tools and best practice guidelines, the Center serves as an independent, non-profit resource for improving the quality and cost-effectiveness of long-term care services. The Center was established with funding from The SCAN Foundation (www.thescanfoundation.org) and is affiliated with the Public Health Institute (www.phi.org) in Oakland, CA.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Daniel Danzig
925-254-6078
Email Contact

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TetriDyn Solutions, Inc. Introduces Virtualization at Harms Memorial Hospital

Posted on September 16, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: TetriDyn Solutions, Inc.

POCATELLO, ID–(Marketwire – September 16, 2010) –  TetriDyn Solutions, Inc. (OTCBB: TDYS), announced today that it has delivered a proven virtualization solution targeted specifically for hospital environments like Harms Memorial Hospital in American Falls, Idaho. The virtualization solution is built using the industry’s leading platforms for its customers to achieve energy savings, faster application and service delivery, full IT management automation, and higher levels of business continuity.

Virtualization improves the efficiency of IT resources by eliminating “one physical server to one application paradigm” by running multiple virtual machines on each physical machine. A typical datacenter’s budget spends two-thirds of the budget maintaining existing infrastructure needs. Using virtual machines, virtualization delivers more efficiency and better response to the dynamic needs of an organization. Servers, applications, and desktops can be virtualized in minutes, deploying when and wherever they are needed.

The design for the Harm’s virtual environment was developed after an initial assessment of the existing infrastructure was developed as a baseline. After securing grant resources from the State of Idaho specifically identified for improving business and revenue flow for critical access hospitals, TetriDyn and Harms began designing Harms’ new high-efficiency virtual environment. Susan Barger, Director of Development at Harms, stated, “TetriDyn Solutions provided us with the technical information enabling us to win a grant that solidified our infrastructure in preparation for the inevitable EMR implementation.”

TetriDyn’s IT Services department guided Harms by providing education and experience through the design, securing the best purchase prices, and implementing the right virtualization technology for their environment. The results were dramatic. Infrastructure servers are now fully leveraged by increasing their utilization. Servers were consolidated, reducing points of failure, all while achieving more energy-efficiency for a greener environment.

TetriDyn adheres closely to following the system engineering lifecycle for producing successful technology implementations. The end goals of which are to ensure that the customer’s needs or requirements are met and the project risk is substantially reduced.

About TetriDyn Solutions, Inc.
TetriDyn Solutions, Inc. (OTCBB: TDYS) specializes in providing business information technology (IT) solutions to its customers. TetriDyn Solutions optimizes business and IT processes by utilizing systems engineering methodologies, strategic planning, and system integration to add efficiencies and value to its customers’ business processes and to help its customers identify critical success factors in their business. For more information about the company, visit www.tetridyn.com.

For Further Information:
Phone 208-232-4200
Public Relations
TetriDyn Solutions, Inc.

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

ONRAD Announces Support of National Rural Health Association

Posted on September 16, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: ONRAD, Inc.

Industry Leading Radiology Provider Will Highlight Teleradiology Solutions for Critical Access Hospitals

RIVERSIDE, CA–(Marketwire – September 16, 2010) –  ONRAD, Inc., a leading radiology services provider, announces support for the National Rural Health Association (NRHA) by exhibiting at the Critical Access Hospital and Rural Health Clinic Conference in Kansas City, MO. 

Visit ONRAD at booth #221 to learn about the company’s complete teleradiology solution for critical access facilities, which can include standard teleradiology services, subspecialty teleradiology interpretations, professional radiology staffing, and technology consulting.

As a national radiology services provider, ONRAD’s team understands the challenges associated with staffing radiologists in rural locations. “ONRAD’s technology allows the radiology group to provide services to any location,” said Dr. Alix Vincent, Vice President of Medical Affairs at ONRAD. “We are even able to offer subspecialty expertise in the most difficult to staff areas including MSK and mammography.” 

“It is important that all patients have access to quality radiology services, regardless of where they are located, and ONRAD will continue to offer turnkey solutions to critical access hospitals at the most competitive prices,” said Dr. Vincent of the company’s dedication to working with rural facilities across the U.S.

About ONRAD: ONRAD is a full service physician-owned radiology provider offering customized radiology services including teleradiology solutions, professional radiology staffing, subspecialty teleradiology interpretations, and technology consulting. As a partner, ONRAD helps its customers be more competitive in their local markets by complementing and expanding the radiology services already in place, or providing a comprehensive solution.

About NRHA: The National Rural Health Association (NRHA) is a national nonprofit membership organization with more than 20,000 members. The association’s mission is to provide leadership on rural health issues. NRHA membership consists of a diverse collection of individuals and organizations, all of whom share the common bond of an interest in rural health.

Contact:
Elizabeth Perley
Email: Email Contact

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CONMED Corporation to Present at the UBS Global Life Sciences Conference

Posted on September 15, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: CONMED Corporation

UTICA, NY–(Marketwire – September 15, 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 the UBS Global Life Sciences Conference, on Monday, September 20, 2010 at 2:00 PM Eastern time. The event will be held in New York at the Grand Hyatt Hotel.

Mr. Joseph J. Corasanti, President and Chief Executive Officer of CONMED, will discuss the Company’s business. The live webcast of CONMED’s presentation 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 30, 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 presentation 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

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BestNursingDegree.com Announces Recipients of 2010 "Back to School" Nursing Scholarships

Posted on September 15, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Degree Prospects

BestNursingDegree.com Awards $5,000 in Nursing Scholarships

CAMBRIDGE, MA–(Marketwire – September 15, 2010) –  BestNursingDegree.com, a comprehensive online resource for nursing education, today announced the recipients of the 2010 “Back to School” Nursing Scholarships.

Scholarships of $2,500 each were awarded to one current registered nurse enrolling in an RN to BSN program, and one aspiring registered nurse enrolling in a second degree nursing program. The winners, chosen from a pool of over 600 applicants, are Adelpha Abrahamson Larkin of San Carlos, California, and Sheryll Brown of Tallahassee, Florida. Recipients were selected on the basis of a number of factors, including academic achievements and extracurricular activities. “We are pleased to congratulate Adelpha and Sheryll on winning the scholarships,” said Joseph Deal, the founder of BestNursingDegree.com. “We had a large pool of well-qualified applicants, and we wish all of them the best of luck in their studies.”

The scholarship was created in response to the ongoing nursing shortage and is an effort to enable more students to pursue nursing education. The program was administered by Scholarship America, the nation’s premier administrator of private scholarships. The application process for the next round of the “Back to School” Nursing Scholarships will begin in March 2011.

About BestNursingDegree.com:

BestNursingDegree.com strives to be the most comprehensive nursing education resource on the Web. Its directory includes more than 7,700 on-campus and online nursing degree programs from more than 2,300 schools across the United States. The website also features expert articles, interviews and career information. For more information, please visit www.bestnursingdegree.com.

Press Contact:
Jane Dashevsky
617.401.2393
Email Contact

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Media Advisory: Dr. David Blumenthal, Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse Join Surescripts to Headline 5th Annual Safe-Rx Awards Luncheon Sept. 21

Posted on September 15, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Surescripts

Annual Release of 1-50 State Rankings Based on E-prescribing Use

WASHINGTON, DC–(Marketwire – September 15, 2010) –

About Surescripts
Surescripts operates the nation’s largest e-prescription network and supports the most comprehensive ecosystem of health care organizations nationwide. Surescripts was founded on the principles of neutrality, transparency, interoperability, efficiency, collaboration and quality. Surescripts connects prescribers in all 50 states through their choice of e-prescribing software to the nation’s leading payers, chain pharmacies and independent pharmacies. The Nation’s E-Prescription Network is available every day to healthcare providers in need of low-cost, electronic access to prescription and health information. By securely and reliably providing that information during emergencies and routine care, Surescripts is committed to saving lives, improving efficiency and reducing the cost of health care for all. For more information, go to www.surescripts.com and follow us at twitter.com/surescripts.

Press Contact:
Rob Cronin
917-414-5289
[email protected]

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New Physical Therapy Continuing Education Program Goes Online With McKenzie Institute-EDUCATA Partnership

Posted on September 15, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: EDUCATA

The Agreement Between the Companies Widens the Scope of Their Offerings and Provides PTs With Rich Media Courses at the Click of a Mouse

CALABASAS, CA–(Marketwire – September 15, 2010) – The McKenzie Institute has long been recognized as a leader in the professional development of physical therapists, especially in what has become known as the “McKenzie Method.” A recent partnership agreement with continuing education provider EDUCATA widens the scope of courses offered by the Institute to include EDUCATA’s interactive content, and exposes its own classes to the large number of EDUCATA members.

“Post-grad education for clinicians has been the cornerstone of our Institute since the mid 1950’s, when our highly-effective and evidence-based method of assessment, diagnosis and treatment for the spine and extremities was developed,” said Stacey Lyon, Executive Director of The McKenzie Institute USA. “Partnering with EDUCATA allows us to build on this foundation with additional courses that meet our standards of quality and boost our Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT) Certification curriculum.”

“We are extremely proud of counting McKenzie among our partners,” said Dr. Marilyn Pink, EDUCATA President and CEO. “The Institute represents all that we value in the education of the therapist: a truly professional approach that delivers evidence-based content to PTs around the world.”

Under the terms of the agreement, EDUCATA courses will be accessed from the education channel at mckenziemdt.org and McKenzie courses will form part of EDUCATA’s catalog of offered classes.

About The McKenzie Institute: The McKenzie Institute USA, founded in 1982 as the first official branch and recognized as 501(c)3 not-for-profit, is one of 26 branches worldwide that train and certify physical therapists and other healthcare professionals through its multi-level educational curriculum. The Institute was proud to add an APTA and AAOMPT approved Fellowship Program in MDT in 2008.

About EDUCATA:  EDUCATA.COM is a unique, interactive, Web 2.0 education platform that delivers online learning. It offers a broad spectrum of courses from orthopaedics and pulmonology to geriatrics and oncology that are taught by top-ranked educators and experienced clinicians. EDUCATA’s partners include the World Confederation for Physical Therapy and many APTA chapters and sections. The company is a leader in providing continuing education for physical therapists and other medical professionals. 

Contact:
Marilyn Pink
Email Contact

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ALR Technologies CEO Provides Update to Shareholders

Posted on September 15, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: ALR Technologies Inc.

ATLANTA, GA–(Marketwire – September 15, 2010) –  The following is a letter to shareholders from the CEO of ALR Technologies.

Dear Shareholders:

As ALR Technologies (OTCBB: ALRT) is entering a new phase of business development, I am writing to report on our progress. The Company is preparing to launch the ALRT Health-e-Connect (HeC) System, a system that tracks adherence to care plans of patients with chronic conditions. The Company has extensive experience in developing medication reminders and ALRT has added the ability to remotely collect data from medical devices in the new HeC System.

A 510(k) was filed for the HeC System with the FDA on July 23, 2010. We expect clearance before the end of 2010. The HeC may be offered for sale in the U.S. when it receives 510(k) clearance.

Initially, our efforts will be focused on treatment of diabetes. This is because the disease has reached pandemic proportions globally. There are many complications related to the disease and it is the most expensive chronic condition to treat. 

The effectiveness of diabetes treatment can be measured by improvements in A1C (a long-term measure of control over blood glucose). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “in general, every percentage point drop in A1C blood test results (e.g., from 8.0% to 7.0%) can reduce the risk of microvascular complications (eye, kidney, and nerve diseases) by 40%.”1 The ALRT HeC System has shown in a clinical trial to reduce A1C by 1.2%2.

Using the HeC with current medical protocols could mean billions of dollars in savings for just the treatment of diabetes. 

Two landmark diabetes studies3 concluded that intensive glucose control could delay or possibly even prevent diabetes-related complications. The HeC System has shown to be a platform that can be successfully used for intensive glucose control.

Importantly, the HeC can be deployed for intensive glucose control for diabetes treatment without involving frequent time consuming and expensive visits with the patients. Therefore, the HeC would offer healthcare providers with an efficient way of treating patients and would also be affordable to payers. The HeC can easily be implemented for all who care for diabetes patients4.

Intensive glucose control puts a diabetes patient in charge of his condition. According to an estimate by Health Partners, a diabetes patient who is in control of his condition might incur $5,000 in costs per year, but a patient who is not could incur costs up to $45,000 annually5 due to emergency room visits and hospital stays — not to mention lost productivity.

The Company is currently pursuing reimbursement opportunities, which will allow healthcare providers to receive appropriate compensation for providing affordable intensive glucose control to their patients. This in turn will also benefit public and private healthcare insurers by helping them to realize substantial cost savings. The prospective reimbursement for intensive glucose control using the HeC could stimulate and accelerate early adoption of the HeC System by providing healthcare providers who treat diabetes patients with a new source of revenue.

ALRT is continuing to support clinical trials and research. In addition to the clinical trial mentioned above, a different pilot sponsored by the Company6 showed that average A1C scores dropped from 7.6 to 6.7 over a 3 month period. At the same time, average frequency of self-testing for blood sugar increased from 1.4 times per day to 3.1 per day. HeC is also designed to accurately measure the frequency of self-testing, and ALRT is supporting a new clinical trial to measure frequency of self-testing and its impact on A1C.

At ALRT, we are excited and encouraged by the prospects for the Company and look forward to being an important partner in containing treatment costs of chronic diseases, especially diabetes in the U.S. and other countries. Thank you all for your continued support. As we move ever closer to bringing our vision to reality, we anticipate realizing the rewards from the great potential of the ALRT Health-e-Connect (HeC) System. A visit to our website, www.alrt.com, will give you a good representation of the capabilities and impact of our exciting product.

Yours truly,
ALR TECHNOLOGIES INC.

Sidney S Chan
Chairman & CEO 

About ALR Technologies Inc.
ALRT Health-e-Connect (HeC) System is the principal product of the Company. HeC is a web based application for medical professionals to improve compliance and adherence of care plans of patients in their homes. HeC is programmed to assist healthcare providers caring for diabetes patients. The platform will be expanded to cover patients with other chronic diseases. More information on ALR Technologies and its products can be found at http://www.alrt.com. 

This release contains certain “forward-looking statements” relating to ALR Technologies’ business, and these statements reflect the current views of ALR Technologies with respect to future events and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions. When used, the words “estimate”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “believe” and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. There are many factors that could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of ALR Technologies and its products to be materially different from any future results, performances or achievements that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Further management discussions of risks and uncertainties can be found in the company’s quarterly filings with the Securities Exchange Commission.

1 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. National diabetes fact sheet: general information and national estimates on diabetes in the United States, 2007. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2008. (Page 11-12)
2 Tildesley HD, Mazanderani AB, Ross SA; Effect of Internet therapeutic intervention on A1C levels in patients with type 2 diabetes treated with insulin; Diabetes Care. 2010 Aug;33(8):1738-40
3 DCCT and EDIC: The Diabetes Control and Complications Trial and Follow-up Study; National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse (NDIC) A service of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease (NIDDK), NIH; http://diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/dm/pubs/control/
4 ALR Technologies Inc. Press Release; http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Features-of-the-ALRT-Health-e-Connect-HeC-System-for-Intensive-Diabetes-Treatment-1306468.htm
5 Health Partners. Beyond Benefits. January 2006. http://www.healthpartners.com:747/media/beyondbenefits/BB0106_br.htm Last accessed 8/13/10
6 ALR Technologies Inc. Press Release; http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Average-A1c-Reduced-From-76-67-After-Three-Months-Initial-Report-ECHO-Employers-Coalition-927781.htm

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Leisureworld Announces September Dividend

Posted on September 15, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

MARKHAM, ONTARIO–(Marketwire – Sept. 15, 2010) – Leisureworld Senior Care Corporation (TSX:LW) today announced that the Company’s dividend for September, 2010 will be $0.0708 per share, representing $0.85 per share on an annualized basis. Payment will be made on October 15, 2010 to shareholders of record September 30, 2010.

About Leisureworld

Leisureworld is the third largest licensed long-term care (LTC) provider in Ontario. The Company owns and operates 26 LTC homes, representing approximately 4,314 beds across Ontario, Canada. Leisureworld also owns and operates one retirement home with 29 beds and one independent living home with 53 apartments. Leisureworld subsidiaries include: Preferred Health Care Services, an accredited provider of professional nursing and personal support services, Ontario Long Term Care, a provider of purchasing services, dietary, social work, and other regulated health professional services, and Tealwood Developments, a provider of laundry services to the Leisureworld Homes.

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

DT Interpreting Completes Reverse Merger With Morgan Equities

Posted on September 15, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Deaf-Talk, Inc. dba DT Interpreting

PITTSBURGH, PA–(Marketwire – September 15, 2010) –  Privately owned Deaf-Talk LLC dba DT Interpreting, the industry leader in on-demand video sign language interpreting, announced today that, pursuant to a stock exchange agreement, it has completed a reverse merger with Morgan Equities Group, Inc., a public company. Over ten-years old, DT Interpreting provides around the clock nationwide in-hospital interpreting services for the deaf. The newly merged company is named Deaf-Talk, Inc. and trades under the symbol (PINKSHEETS: MGQG). Deaf-Talk markets its services as DT Interpreting.

“DT Interpreting is the largest, fastest-growing company in its field with almost 400 hospital installations concentrated in the eastern and southern United States,” stated David Stauffer, executive vice president. “The company, which derives a large portion of its revenue from three-year contracts, now plans to market its services throughout the US southwest and entire western seaboard, with emphasis on California and Texas.”

DT Interpreting President, Robert Fisher, added: “The company attributes its leading market position to the integration of solid technology with certified sign language interpreters, which makes the communication between health care professionals and the deaf easy and timely. This is particularly important in emergencies when a few short minutes could be the difference between life and death.”

In addition to its video sign language interpreting, DT Interpreting also offers on-demand over-the-phone interpreting in more than 150 languages, full-scale document translation services and transcription into Braille.

More information about DT Interpreting can be found on the Company’s website: www.dtinterpreting.com.

About DT Interpreting
Founded in 1999 and now the industry leader, publicly-traded DT Interpreting is headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA with sales and customer service offices in Connecticut, Ohio and North Carolina. The Company provides on-demand video sign language and over the phone language interpretation, as well as full-scale document translation and translations into Braille.

Safe Harbor Statement: This release contains forward-looking statements with respect to the results of operations and business of Deaf Talk, Inc. dba DT Interpreting, which involves risks and uncertainties. The Company’s actual future results could materially differ from those discussed. The Company intends that such statements about the Company’s future expectations, including future revenues and earnings, and all other forward-looking statements be subject to the “Safe Harbors” provision of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

Press Contact
David Stauffer
DT Interpreting
412.563.3177
www.dtinterpreting.com

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

New ExtendCredit.com Program Delivers Affordable Payment Plans for Pet Owners With Unexpected and Expensive Veterinary Bills for Their Animals

Posted on September 15, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: ExtendCredit.com

ExtendCredit.com Helps Veterinarians and Animal Hospitals Deliver Care for Ailing Pets by Offering Easier Financing for Pet Owners

ALISO VIEJO, CA–(Marketwire – September 15, 2010) –  ExtendCredit.com, an online provider of customer financing plans for small and mid-sized businesses, today announced a new program designed to help Veterinarians and Animal Hospitals looking for an alternative to conventional third-party financing offer their own extended payment terms to pet owners. ExtendCredit.com is seeking to enroll veterinarians and animal hospitals in ExtendCredit.com’s Pet Healthcare Payment Plan program while also educating pet owners to ask their pet’s doctor or local animal hospital to offer affordable payment plans for pet healthcare.

Veterinarians and animal hospital administrators can sign up for the new program at www.extendcredit.com/petcare-credit.html or by calling (888) 364-2808.

“We recognize that pets are part of the family, and like any family member, pets sometimes need an emergency medical procedure to relieve suffering from a very treatable illness or injury,” said Joe Simrell, Co-President, ExtendCredit.com. “But unlike other family members, pets aren’t covered by the family’s medical insurance and pet insurance typically does not cover enough of the bill. In today’s tough economy, pet owners face hard choices about how they intend to pay for an emergency surgical procedure for their pet. Using a veterinarian or animal hospital that offers our payment plan program, they can get authorized for the procedure and pay for it without breaking their budget.”

According to Simrell, most pet owners have no plan for dealing with a serious health issue for their pet or pets. Those that do, and use conventional third party financing or have a pet insurance plan, find that those options are often inadequate for their needs. He notes conventional third party financing approval rates have dropped off as the credit markets have tightened. Only a small number of those who apply for these programs today are eligible and most have to have a high credit score to qualify. And even then, only certain procedures are covered. With ExtendCredit.com’s Pet Healthcare Payment Plan program, extended payment terms are mutually agreed upon between the veterinarian/animal hospital and the pet owner and ExtendCredit.com handles everything from there.

When there’s a pet health emergency, usually from a pet that’s been struck by a car, most animal hospitals charge $100 to $300 for an examination fee. A surgical procedure can range $500 to $5,000 depending on the ailment. There’s an old expression: “can’t afford the Vet, can’t afford the pet.” For pet owners suddenly faced with an unexpected veterinarian bill, ExtendCredit.com’s advice is to ask about financing plans up front. And to encourage their Veterinarian and Animal Hospital to use ExtendCredit.com’s automated payment plan service.

While pet owners consider their pets part of the family, in the eyes of the law, a pet is property. But unlike having a watch or TV set repaired, Veterinarians and Animal Hospitals release pets to their owners when they are well enough to go home. It’s then very difficult to make sure a pet owner pays the cost of the pet’s care. With ExtendCredit.com payment plans, the pet owner gets a payment they can afford, while veterinarians and animal hospitals can earn additional revenue through modest finance charges.

Click here to watch a short video about the program, or to sign up for the program, Veterinarians and Animal Hospital administrators can go to www.extendcredit.com/petcare-credit.html or call (888) 364-2808.

About ExtendCredit.com
Based in Southern California, ExtendCredit.com is a fully automated, online service that makes it easy for small and mid-sized businesses to create and manage their own payment plans for professional services and products.

ExtendCredit.com puts the business in control of their customer financing making it an effective, affordable, easy-to-use alternative to the high cost and complexity of bank and credit card lending in today’s tightened credit market. Businesses control the terms offered and who gets approved, while ExtendCredit.com provides all the tools needed to be successful, stay in control, and fully comply with lending laws.

ExtendCredit.com is used by businesses throughout the United States, most notably in the healthcare, animal care, services, and retail industries. ExtendCredit.com is a division of BillWise, Inc., and is headquartered in Aliso Viejo, California. More information is available at www.extendcredit.com.

Media Contact:

Dan Chmielewski
Madison Alexander PR
714-832-8716
Email Contact

Tila Pacheco
Madison Alexander PR
714-256-8452
Email Contact

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Precision Dynamics Corporation Awarded 3-Year Contract Extension for Patient Wristbands From Amerinet

Posted on September 15, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Precision Dynamics Corporation

SAN FERNANDO, CA–(Marketwire – September 15, 2010) –  Precision Dynamics Corporation, the global leader in healthcare identification solutions, has been awarded a 3-year contract extension from Amerinet for patient wristbands, allowing Amerinet customers to lock in significant potential savings. Amerinet is a leading national healthcare group purchasing organization with more than 2,500 acute care hospitals and 25,000 alternate care members in its network of healthcare providers.

The Contract VH2100 for wristbands is active through October 31, 2013. It provides Amerinet clients with access to Precision Dynamics’ leading line of ID solutions for accurate, reliable and easy-to-use positive patient identification throughout the continuum of care, helping to prevent errors and improve clinical outcomes.

The agreement will help Amerinet clients continue to enhance their operating margins and cash flow. New cost savings include a committed Tier that will pass on a minimum savings of 10% off the standard Amerinet contract for those members who meet the requirements of Precision Dynamics’ PowerPlus™ Purchasing Program.

“As a partner with Amerinet for over 10 years, Precision Dynamics shares Amerinet’s goal of providing high quality care through positive ID solutions, while reducing costs and streamlining operations in healthcare,” said Gary Hutchinson, President and CEO of Precision Dynamics. “We look forward to our continued collaboration to provide positive ID and positive outcomes.”

Precision Dynamics was awarded the wristband contract as part of Amerinet’s intensive contract selection process, which focuses on delivering high quality, cost-effective solutions to the healthcare industry. Precision Dynamics is also under contract with Amerinet for its labeling solutions (contract VH05600).

About Precision Dynamics Corporation (PDC):
The Leading Provider of Positive ID and Positive Outcomes™
With more than 50 years of experience, Precision Dynamics provides accurate, reliable, and easy-to-use healthcare ID solutions that empower the flawless delivery of care and enhance outcomes across all major hospital functions. PDC products are used in all of the leading hospitals worldwide and comprise a comprehensive range of wristband and labeling systems that provide positive ID and positive clinical outcomes.

Precision Dynamics products meet important guidelines of the Joint Commission, World Healthcare Organization, FDA, AHA, and HIPAA. As the developer of the first single-piece patient wristband, the first bar code wristband system, and the first Smart Band® RFID wristband system, Precision Dynamics solutions are an integral part of some of the most successful patient safety initiatives. As an ISO 9001 certified company, Precision Dynamics follows a systematic, world-standard approach to ensure superior product design, manufacturing, and customer supper services. Precision Dynamics constantly thrives to better understand customer needs and measures performance through vehicles such as its Customer Council and Customer Survey Program. For more information, call 800.772.1122 or visit www.pdcorp.com/healthcare.

About Amerinet
As a leading national healthcare group purchasing organization, Amerinet strategically partners with acute and alternate care providers to reduce costs and improve quality through its performance solutions. Built on a foundation of data, savings and trust, and supported by a team of clinical and supply chain experts, Amerinet enriches healthcare delivery for its members and the communities they serve. To learn more about the Amerinet difference, visit www.amerinet-gpo.com.

Precision Dynamics Corporation, product names, company names, marks, logos and symbols mentioned herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of Precision Dynamics Corporation. All other product names, company names, marks, logos and symbols mentioned herein are trademarks of their respective owners.

Media Contact:
Daniel Hobin
Precision Dynamics Corporation
818.897.1111 x1340
Email Contact

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

What Will Happen to Patients Who Drive After Taking Legalised Cannabinoid Sprays?

Posted on September 15, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

LONDON, ENGLAND–(Marketwire – Sept. 15, 2010) – George Michael’s accident highlights the possible dangers of driving with cannabinoids in the blood. Under UK law this in itself is not an offence, however, if the driver is impaired due to the cannabinoids, then this creates an offence.

The UK has recently approved the use of a cannabinoid spray for the treatment of spasticity in patients with Multiple Sclerosis. 

The Summary of Product Characteristics of this compound, which is the information that the regulatory authority approves to give to doctors, states in relation to Sativex and driving that ‘Sativex may produce undesirable effects such as dizziness and somnolence which may impair judgement and performance of skilled tasks. Patients should not drive, operate machinery or engage in any hazardous activity if they are experiencing any significant CNS effects such as dizziness or somnolence. Patients should be aware that Sativex has been known to cause a few cases of loss of consciousness’.

The Patient Information Leaflet which patients are given says that ‘You must not drive or use machinery when you first start to take Sativex and until you are established on a stable daily dose. Sativex may cause you to feel sleepy or dizzy, which may impair your judgment and performance of skilled tasks. It has also rarely been reported to cause a brief loss of consciousness. Once you are more used to taking Sativex and your dose is stable, you should still not drive or use machinery if Sativex causes effects such as sleepiness or dizziness that could impair your ability to perform these tasks. If you are not sure, do not drive or operate machines’.

Dr Malcolm VandenBurg who has given many medico legal opinions involving patients who have been prosecuted for driving with active and inactive cannabinoids in the system has given many opinions for the defence where patients have been prosecuted when their blood only contains inactive cannabinoids and there has been no evidence of impairment states that “thus patients are not told not to drive and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) seem content with this warning. That is like telling people who have drank alcohol that they are safe to drive unless they themselves feel impaired. How can that be right? 

The argument put forward is that the spray produces such a low concentration and clinical evidence suggests patients are unlikely to be effected, however, plasma levels in some patients reach concentrations which may impair driving skills and it is possible that they will not be aware of this.

The manufactures and MHRA also took into account the research evidence which did not show in many patients substantial impairment. However, some will be impaired. To leave it up to the patient is absurd.” 

Dr Malcolm VandenBurg wonders about the difference between legal Sativex and illegal smoking because as in the UK it is illegal to drive under the influence of substances such as illegal cannabis, it is interesting to know what position the courts will take if patients have accidents while their blood or urine shows they have cannabis in the body related to the prescription medicine.

If they are impaired, it is likely they could be prosecuted. It is interesting to postulate, but not useful as to what view the court will take.

“How can it be legal to drive when impaired after smoking cannabis and not be illegal to drive after using prescription cannabis? The manufacturers and MHRA have created this paradox. They should have warned patients not to drive.” 

Dr Malcolm VandenBurg points out that the product licence holders and the MHRA obviously accept that Sativex may be psychoactive but wonders why these same warnings are not given in the Summary of Product Characteristics and the Patient Information Leaflet, they are clearly different. How can doctors be told something different from patients.

“Despite the obvious psychoactivity of Sativex, the manufacturers and MHRA argue that they have taken the warning from other psychoactive medications such as the benzodiazepines where it is left up to the patient. However, although the warning to doctors is similar, the warning to patients is far more complicated. They thus acknowledge there is some danger. However, this could also be argued to be inadequate and our roads would certainly be safer if there was zero tolerance to both cannabis and benzodiazepines.”

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Adelson Medical Research Foundation-Sponsored Research Identifies Two Genes Newly Implicated in Aggressive Form of Ovarian Cancer

Posted on September 14, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Adelson Medical Research Foundation

Foundation’s Open and Highly Integrated Collaborative Model Brings Together Multi-Disciplinary, Multi-Institutional Scientific Teams to Address Major Unmet Medical Needs

NEEDHAM, MA–(Marketwire – September 14, 2010) –  The Dr. Miriam and Sheldon G. Adelson Medical Research Foundation (AMRF), a private foundation funding collaborative translational science programs, announced today an important new publication in the September 8, 2010 online issue of the journal Science Express. The paper, co-authored by AMRF-funded scientists Victor Velculescu of Johns Hopkins University and Dennis Slamon of the University of California, Los Angeles, identifies two genes not previously implicated in ovarian clear cell carcinoma (OCCC). This finding provides two novel targets for the development of new drugs to treat this aggressive form of ovarian cancer that is generally resistant to current therapies.

“The collaboration among Drs. Velculescu, Slamon and their other Adelson Medical Research Foundation-funded colleagues brings together distinguished laboratories with capabilities in cancer genomics, genetics, and the treatment of cancer in women to uniquely analyze ovarian tumors,” said Dr. Miriam Adelson, Trustee and Executive Director of the Foundation. “This is an example of our Foundation’s unique collaborative model in action,” noted Sheldon G. Adelson, Trustee of the Foundation and Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Las Vegas Sands Corp. “By funding collaborative teams from a number of major biomedical research institutions and a variety of scientific disciplines, we are bringing new insights to some of the most challenging areas of cancer research,” Dr. Adelson elaborated.

“This study implicates PPP2R1A as a novel oncogene and ARID1A as a novel tumor suppressor gene in OCCC, neither of which had previously been implicated in ovarian cancer,” noted Dr. Kenneth H. Fasman, Vice President and Chief Scientific Officer of AMRF. “This opens the door for two new directions in cancer drug discovery,” Fasman said.

Victor E. Velculescu, M.D., Ph.D., is Associate Professor of Oncology and Director of Cancer Genetics at the Ludwig Center for Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics of the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center. He has co-authored many seminal papers on cancer genomics with his Hopkins co-authors Bert Vogelstein and Kenneth W. Kinzler. Dennis J. Slamon, M.D., Ph.D., is director of Clinical/Translational Research, and director of the Revlon/UCLA Women’s Cancer Research Program at the Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center. He is Professor of Medicine, chief of the Division of Hematology/Oncology and Executive Vice Chair for Research for UCLA’s Department of Medicine. For 12 years, Slamon and his colleagues conducted the laboratory and clinical research that led to the development of the new breast cancer drug Herceptin, which targets a specific genetic alteration found in about 25 percent of breast cancer patients. Drs. Velculescu and Slamon are members of the Adelson Medical Research Foundation’s ovarian cancer research collaboration.

The Dr. Miriam and Sheldon G. Adelson Medical Research Foundation, established in 2006, is a private foundation committed to a model of open and highly integrated collaboration among outstanding investigators who participate in goal-directed basic and clinical research to prevent, reduce or eliminate disabling and life-threatening illness. The Foundation creates a culture of scientific discovery, evaluation, and clinical application directed by the experiences of scientists who are not bound by searching for the cure of any single disease. Programs within the Foundation are defined in broad terms. The Adelson Program in Cancer Research pursues therapies targeted to the mechanisms that make cells malignant, and the Adelson Program in Neural Repair and Rehabilitation seeks to manipulate the regeneration of axons in the brain, spinal cord and peripheral nerves.

For additional information on the Dr. Miriam and Sheldon G. Adelson Medical Research Foundation, please visit www.adelsonfoundation.org/AMRF.

Media Contact:
Dr. Kenneth Fasman
Vice President and Chief Science Officer
Dr. Miriam and Sheldon G. Adelson Medical Research Foundation
(781) 972-5900
Email Contact

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

Medline Awarded Premier Contract for Surgical Mesh Biomaterials

Posted on September 14, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Medline Industries, Inc.

Contract Includes MotifMESH® and VitaMESH® Products for the Repair and Reinforcement of Hernia and Other Fascial Defects

MUNDELEIN, IL–(Marketwire – September 14, 2010) – Medline Industries, Inc., the nation’s largest privately held manufacturer and distributor of healthcare supplies, announced today the signing of a three-year national agreement with Premier Purchasing Partners, the group purchasing unit of Premier, Inc., to provide surgical mesh biomaterials used in soft tissue reinforcement to the more than 2,200 U.S. hospitals and 58,000 healthcare sites that are members of the Premier healthcare alliance. The agreement, which takes effect October 1, 2010, includes MotifMESH® and VitaMESH® products for the repair and reinforcement of hernia and other fascial defects.

“We’re very pleased to have been chosen for this contract award based on our shared values of providing great patient care while reducing overall healthcare costs,” said Marc Lessem, Medline’s Vice President of Advanced Wound Care. “Our innovative surgical mesh solutions give Premier members an efficient and effective way to improve patient outcomes in this growing arena.”

Ventral hernia repairs account for approximately 420,000 hernia repair operations annually in the U.S.1 When a ventral hernia occurs, it usually arises in the abdominal wall where the muscle has weakened or where a previous surgical incision was made.2 

MotifMESH® is an ideal mesh for ventral hernia repair because it is made from a unique “condensed” polytetrafluoroethylene (cPTFE) polymer. It has a macroporous structure which allows rapid incorporation into the abdominal wall while offering a reduction in adhesion formation to the cPTFE surface. It is the thinnest mesh available for ventral hernia repair at nearly 10X thinner than the two most commonly promoted intra-abdominal meshes.

More common than ventral hernias are inguinal (or groin) hernias, which account for approximately 700,000 hernia operations annually in the U.S.3 Statistically, the lifetime chance of having an inguinal hernia is 27 percent for men and 3 percent for women.4 The surgical operation is intended to repair a protrusion of abdominal-cavity contents occurring through the inguinal canal. VitaMESH is a strong, lower weight, transparent and easy to manipulate condensed polypropylene material making it a perfect choice for both laparoscopic and open hernia repairs. It is comprised of large interstices providing excellent visibility through the mesh forming a strong, fibrous wall.

About Premier, Inc.
The Premier healthcare alliance includes more than 2,200 U.S. hospitals and 58,000-plus other healthcare sites working together to improve healthcare quality and affordability. Premier maintains the nation’s most comprehensive repository of clinical, financial and outcomes information and operates a leading healthcare purchasing network. A world leader in helping deliver measurable improvements in care, Premier works with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the United Kingdom’s National Health Service Northwest to improve hospital performance.

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.

Media Contact:
Jerreau Beaudoin
(847) 643-3011

John Marks
(847) 643-3309

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

New Host Sites for Health Fair 11’s Flu Shot Clinics

Posted on September 14, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: Minnesota Health Fairs Inc

Flu Fighter Clinics Scheduled for September and October

MINNEAPOLIS, MN–(Marketwire – September 14, 2010) –  Flu shot season is here and Health Fair 11 is ready to hold its annual Flu Fighter clinics. But before you head out to get your annual vaccination, there are some important changes to know about.

  1. Flu Fighter clinics have new host sites. In September, MVNA nurses will be giving flu shots at all Minnesota Life Time Fitness locations. In October, vaccinations will be available at all YMCA centers in the Twin Cities and western Wisconsin. Club memberships are NOT required to attend Flu Fighter clinics.

  2. Everyone is currently eligible to get a flu shot.  The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) has changed its vaccination directives for this year. Priority groups have been eliminated. The CDC encourages everyone to be vaccinated as soon as flu shot clinics begin.

  3. Most will only need one shot this year. The H1N1 influenza vaccine is contained in this year’s seasonal flu vaccine. Parents should consult with medical professionals to determine if their children will need more than one dose of seasonal flu vaccine. 

Vaccinations are given by registered nurses working for the Minnesota Visiting Nurse Agency. The MVNA is a nonprofit organization that uses all proceeds from the Flu Fighter clinics to fund its nursing care programs for thousands of Minnesotans who are ill, disabled, living in poverty, or in need of home care services. Learn more about MVNA and its services at www.mvna.org

Flu Fighter clinic dates & hours
Minnesota Life Time Fitness clubs — September 16 – 18 & September 23 – 26, 2010

Thursdays & Fridays: 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

 Metro area YMCA centers — October 14 – 16 & October 21 – 23, 2010

Thursdays & Fridays: 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Flu Fighter clinics are open to anyone age 3 and older. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

COST
Most health insurance plans will cover the cost of a seasonal flu shot. Bring your insurance card if you have one of these plans: Medicare, UCare, Advantra Freedom, Aetna, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Cigna, Health Partners, Humana, Labor Care, Medica, MCHA-Medica, MHP, MN Health Care, Preferred One, Select Care, Unicare, and United Health Care.

People paying cash will be charged $26. FluMist ® nasal vaccine will be available for $32.

The Flu Fighter clinics are made possible by Health Fair 11, a nonprofit organization that operates with the support of KARE 11 TV, North Memorial, and UCare. Since 1998, more than 850,000 flu shots have been administered at Health Fair 11’s Flu Fighter clinics.

Contact:
Craig Hotvedt
763-797-7299

Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

pihms Signs New Leave Management Solutions Client and Renews and Expands Two Existing Contracts

Posted on September 14, 2010 Written by Annalyn Frame

SOURCE: pihms, Inc.

PITTSBURGH, PA–(Marketwire – September 14, 2010) –  pihms, Inc. (www.pihms.com), a leading provider of integrated software solutions for tracking, measuring and managing human capital through pihms Leave Management, pihms Safety Solutions, and pihms Care Solutions, announced today that it has signed another new client contract and two relationship renewal and service expansions.

New Client
pihms’ new client contract is to provide Leave and Case Management support tools for the more than 15,000 U.S. based employees of the $10+ billion U.S. affiliate of a global company.

The Company reported that its newest client began its vendor selection with the goal of providing better internal customer service to its employees as they navigate through the process of requesting and securing approval for leaves. Patrick J. Kalnas, President and CEO of pihms, said, “Of great importance to this client, was the fact that our Leave and Case Management solution is not only customer friendly for both employee and management, but will help their organization reduce costs related to inappropriate and excessive leaves.”

Client Renewals and Expansions
The first current client, an integrated energy utility company, is renewing the pihms services provided to their onsite employee health clinic, and expanding the relationship by adding pihms’ integrated comprehensive Leave and Case Management Solutions for their entire base of U.S. employees. 

The other client, the North American entity of a global automotive corporation, is continuing its five plus year utilization of pihmsSafety Solutions™ for its multiple U.S. manufacturing facilities. The enhanced relationship will also now include the client’s 30+ Non-Manufacturing facilities across the U.S.

“The objective of each of these long time clients is to continue to leverage pihms’ proven track record and expertise, and allow its management to have more time to focus their energy on customers and business growth. The pihms relationship with these clients is a great example of how the pihms suite of solutions can be configured and expanded to meet the growing needs of the client,” Kalnas said.

About pihms:
pihms, Inc. is a Software as a Service (SaaS) provider focusing on best practices for tracking, measuring and managing human capital. pihms’ unique (and patented) process takes employee health, safety, leave management, and case management information from disparate sources and delivers it to the right decision makers at the right time. The workflow ensures that best practices are used to remain compliant with all FML and OSHA regulations. pihms, Inc. is headquartered in Pittsburgh with offices in Atlanta and Glasgow, Scotland. For more information visit the pihms website at www.pihms.com.

Media Contact:
Patrick Cua
Executive Vice President
678-294-4141 (cell)
[email protected]

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Filed Under: Facilities And Providers

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

Click here to see all recent news from this company

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.

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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.

To view the first picture associated with this press release, please visit the following link:

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To view the second picture associated with this press release, please visit the following link:

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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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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

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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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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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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

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

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

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

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

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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