MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'The American Journal of Managed Care' source. Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:13:05 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5667803&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22300235%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Chernew ME, Fendrick AM, Ginsburg PB, Pawlson G, Scanlon D, Sennett C, Sweet B Abstract Besides offering financial incentives to both physicians and healthcare organizations, accountable care organizations (ACOs) are designed to offer quality patient care while keeping costs down. The law states that an ACO must manage all of the healthcare needs for a minimum of 3 years for at least 5000 Medicare beneficiaries. In February 2012, the first round of applications for the ACO Shared Savings Program were accepted. Practices and insurers are announcing plans to create ACOs. By making providers equally responsible for their respective patients while giving financial incentives to avoid unnecessary procedures, ACOs aim to raise the quality and value of patient care. However, ther... The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5667803 Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5667803 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5593403&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22214511%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kwong KY, Eghrari-Sabet JS, Mendoza GR, Platts-Mills T, Horn R Abstract A common link among allergic diseases remains the many allergens that can provoke symptoms. The National Institutes of Health Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Asthma and Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Food Allergy support the use of in vivo (skin prick) or in vitro (blood) specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) testing, along with a detailed clinical history and physical examination, to document an allergy diagnosis. The initial responsibility of diagnosing allergic diseases falls principally on primary care providers, for whom skin prick testing is impractical. Access to in vitro testing provides a valuable diagnostic tool, in conjunction with patient history, for comprehensive ... The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5593403 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5593403 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573554&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22214474%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Weir MR Abstract The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is rising in the United States, and cardiovascular disease (CVD) is increasingly recognized to occur at elevated rates in patients with CKD compared with the general population. The impact of CVD in patients with CKD is significant, inversely related to the level of kidney function, and exaggerated when compared with matched patients without CKD. CKD is associated with an increased risk of CVD, CVD events, and death, but the prevalence of traditional CVD risk factors is also increased compared with the general population. Proteinuria, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and diabetes are common in patients with CKD and contribute directly to CVD events. CKD-related factors (eg, disorders of electrolyte and mineral meta... The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573554 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5573554 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573553&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22214475%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Marrs JC Abstract Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an independent risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Often, CKD and CVD coexist, and patients warrant optimal pharmacotherapy to reduce the risk of future cardiovascular (CV) events. Randomized trials have evaluated the role of antihypertensive therapy and lipid-lowering therapy as means to reduce CVD in patients with CKD. Many clinical trials support the role of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) in the CKD population. In addition, many clinical trials have evaluated the role of statin therapy in reducing CV events in early- and late-stage CKD. The struggle with interpreting results from these trials is that there are a number of different CV ... The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573553 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5573553 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573552&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22214476%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Calabrese D Abstract Despite the rising incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD), this condition remains underrecognized and is costly to treat. Care of CKD accounts for a substantial portion of US Medicare spending, with major costs primarily associated with hospitalization and drug therapy. The leading cause of death and hospitalization in patients with CKD is cardiovascular disease (CVD). Strategies to improve identification of CKD have proved to be cost-effective in the highest risk patients (eg, those with diabetes), but determining the most appropriate way to identify high-risk patients remains a significant challenge. There is also evidence to suggest that referral to a specialist once the estimated glomerular filtration rate reaches approximately 60 mL/min/1.73 m2... The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573552 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5573552 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573551&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22216749%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: An integrative medicine approach including yoga therapy, holistic nursing, and a healing environment in the inpatient setting can decrease use of medications, resulting in substantial cost savings for hospitals in the care of oncology patients. PMID: 22216749 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573551 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5573551 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573550&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22216750%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Week 2 was a clinically meaningful time point to identify early improvers, and lack of improvement early in treatment was a highly significant predictor of lack of later remission. Early assessment of changes in symptoms could prove useful in clinical practice and more appropriately target healthcare costs. PMID: 22216750 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573550 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5573550 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573549&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22216751%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Providing discharge supplies of antiplatelet medication resulted in lower overall costs for insurers in most of the cases modeled. PMID: 22216751 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573549 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5573549 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573548&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22216752%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Market competition intensity was associated with only small differences in hospital performance. The level of market competitiveness may produce only marginal incremental benefits to inpatient HF care. PMID: 22216752 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573548 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5573548 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573547&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22216869%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: McKethan A, Brammer C, Jain SH PMID: 22216869 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573547 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5573547 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573546&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22216870%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Physicians prescribe more broadly than commonly perceived. Though narrow prescribers are more likely to prescribe highly advertised drugs, few physicians prescribe these drugs exclusively. Narrow prescribing has modest effects on medication adherence and out-of-pocket costs in some classes. PMID: 22216870 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573546 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5573546 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573545&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22216871%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Using self-reported health information improved the predictive power of a DxCG model to forecast inpatient admissions and patient cost-tier. PMID: 22216871 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573545 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5573545 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573544&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22216872%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Health plans have made substantial progress in the collection of language data and many are offering options for language services. With the rapid growth in Medicaid participation and newly insured individuals anticipated under the Affordable Care Act, health plans may be uniquely positioned to implement and test interventions that aim to improve appropriate utilization of language services by providers and patients. PMID: 22216872 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573544 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5573544 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573543&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22216873%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Over the state of Texas, regions of high Medicare spending also tend to be regions of high private insurance spending. McAllen appears to be an outlier for Medicare spending, but not for BCBSTX spending. PMID: 22216873 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573543 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5573543 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5432972&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22084920%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: PPHs for common medical conditions are costly and prevalent among older patients with diabetes, suggesting a need for more comprehensive primary care, beyond glycemic control. The groups at risk for acute and chronic PPHs may differ, which suggests that more targeted and tailored approaches are necessary to reduce the rates of each type of PPH. PMID: 22084920 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5432972 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 14:18:04 +0100 5432972 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5432971&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22084921%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: On a propensity-matched basis, patients who fill maintenance prescriptions at retail have a slightly, but statistically significantly, higher MPR than patients who fill their prescriptions by mail. PMID: 22084921 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5432971 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 14:18:04 +0100 5432971 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5432970&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22084922%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: The quality of preventive health care for children with chronic conditions in New York State Medicaid managed care is equivalent to or better than that for healthy or acutely ill children. Investigating quality concerns for subpopulations of members by combining existing standardized quality measures with administrative health status data is a useful tool for informing state quality-improvement initiatives. PMID: 22084922 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5432970 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 14:18:04 +0100 5432970 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5432969&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22084923%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: If these trends continue, health plans will see a dramatic increase in retail clinic utilization. While use is increasing on average, it is particularly increasing among young, healthy, and higher income patients living close to retail clinics. PMID: 22084923 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5432969 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 14:18:04 +0100 5432969 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5432968&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22084924%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: It appears that upper GI symptoms and disorders are common in US inhabitants. We identified patient- and study-level factors that should be considered when assessing upper GI symptom prevalence and conducting future research. PMID: 22084924 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5432968 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 14:18:04 +0100 5432968 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5432977&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22084892%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Physician-specific factors have an underappreciated impact on medication adherence. A better understanding of these factors may have substantial benefit in improving compliance with treatment and clinical outcomes. PMID: 22084892 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5432977 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5432977 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5432976&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22084893%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Despite uniform medical care coverage, Filipinos, blacks, and Asians with diabetes developed albuminuria at higher rates than white and Hispanic adults. PMID: 22084893 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5432976 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5432976 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5432975&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22084894%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Compliance and persistence with statin therapy significantly lagged behind oral antihyperglycemic therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes who were treated concomitantly with both therapies. PMID: 22084894 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5432975 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5432975 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5432974&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22084895%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: For patients who reached the coverage gap, discontinuation was more likely for patients taking osteoporosis (OP) medication. Not having a coverage gap was associated with improved persistence with OP treatment. PMID: 22084895 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5432974 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5432974 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5432973&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22084896%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: At the start of implementation of the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act, only a small minority of US hospitals electronically exchange clinical data with unaffiliated providers. Health information exchange is a key part of reforming the healthcare system, and factors related to competitiveness may be holding some providers back. PMID: 22084896 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5432973 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5432973 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5338037&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21999717%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: The intervention's lack of success in reducing depression severity for Medicaid beneficiaries suggests the need for more intensive interventions that strengthen telephone care management and potentially include in-person components as well. PMID: 21999717 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5338037 Sun, 23 Oct 2011 01:35:02 +0100 5338037 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5338036&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21999718%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: There is significant variation in episode costs within a plan, and PACs have significantly more variation than typical costs. Plans and accountable care organizations would benefit from understanding the source of variation of their episode costs in order to improve overall cost of care. PMID: 21999718 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5338036 Sun, 23 Oct 2011 01:35:02 +0100 5338036 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5338035&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21999719%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: An intervention based on SDT and consistent with the PHS Guideline facilitated tobacco abstinence among insured smokers and was cost-effective compared with other tobacco dependence and medical interventions. PMID: 21999719 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5338035 Sun, 23 Oct 2011 01:35:02 +0100 5338035 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5338034&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21999720%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Pharmacist-provided telephonic MTMP consultations can lead to decreases in total all-cause healthcare expenditures. PMID: 21999720 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5338034 Sun, 23 Oct 2011 01:35:02 +0100 5338034 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5338033&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21999721%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: HDHP members experienced sustained reductions in emergency department visits over 2 years, but reductions in hospital utilization and costs were not apparent by the second year. Longer-term studies that assess deferred utilization and its effects are needed. PMID: 21999721 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5338033 Sun, 23 Oct 2011 01:35:02 +0100 5338033 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5338042&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21999674%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: This study quantified the substantial indirect burden of illness associated with use of current HCV treatments. New treatments are needed with improved adverse effect profiles that result in reduced absence from work and improved productivity among HCV-infected persons. PMID: 21999674 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5338042 Sat, 01 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5338042 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5338041&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21999675%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: The overall incidence of visits for hypoglycemia was considerable in this large database, and was associated with high per-episode costs. Continued vigilance and the development of strategies to decrease potentially avoidable hypoglycemic episodes requiring medical intervention are needed. PMID: 21999675 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5338041 Sat, 01 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5338041 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5338040&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21999676%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusion: VBID may be effective in improving medication adherence and reducing total healthcare costs when active counseling is provided to high utilizers of care. PMID: 21999676 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5338040 Sat, 01 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5338040 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5338039&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21999677%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Despite high rates of cesarean delivery, presurgical screening of pregnant women for S aureus and decolonization of carriers is unlikely to be cost-effective under prevailing epidemiologic circumstances. PMID: 21999677 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5338039 Sat, 01 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5338039 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5338038&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21999678%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: The findings suggest that even small changes in average copayment for asthma medications can result in significant reductions in medication use and\ unintended increases in healthcare services. PMID: 21999678 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5338038 Sat, 01 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5338038 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5212627&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21902440%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Comanagement of patients who had perioperative complications was associated with lower mortality, suggesting that comanagement may facilitate effective rescue among medically complex surgical patients. PMID: 21902440 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5212627 Tue, 13 Sep 2011 08:40:02 +0100 5212627 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5212626&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21902441%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: The findings suggest that in a managed care setting, there is high uniformity among physicians. Although physician characteristics explain little of the variability associated with adherence, certain patient characteristics as determined by their physicians (eg, antidepressant drug class, psychiatric diagnosis) do play a role in adherence. PMID: 21902441 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5212626 Tue, 13 Sep 2011 08:40:02 +0100 5212626 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5212625&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21902442%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Aged persons and those who used more hospital services in previous years had a higher probability of hospital admission and readmission. PMID: 21902442 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5212625 Tue, 13 Sep 2011 08:40:02 +0100 5212625 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5212624&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21902443%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: To optimize evidence-based depression care after a psychiatric hospitalization, health systems might increase receipt of psychotherapy by considering potential barriers related to age, medical condition, and distance. Patients with comorbid substance use disorders or their providers may need additional services to support antidepressant treatment. PMID: 21902443 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5212624 Tue, 13 Sep 2011 08:40:02 +0100 5212624 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5212623&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21902444%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Model results demonstrate that greater IOP reduction from bimatoprost could reduce managed care spending. PMID: 21902444 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5212623 Tue, 13 Sep 2011 08:40:02 +0100 5212623 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5212622&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21902445%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Empiric antibiotics were inappropriately prescribed in a high percentage of influenza patients. This represents a significant financial burden to the US healthcare system and may contribute to increased antibiotic resistance. PMID: 21902445 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5212622 Thu, 01 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5212622 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5212621&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21902446%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Although residual confounding and indication bias cannot be ruled out, this study showed that compliance, persistence, and switching behavior varied between specific ACE inhibitors but not between specific ARBs. These results support prescribing of cheap generic ARBs as opposed to expensive ARBs. Apart from factors leading to therapy switches, compliance and persistence were similar between ACE inhibitors and ARBs. PMID: 21902446 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5212621 Thu, 01 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5212621 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5212619&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21902447%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: MHC patients with AF were less likely than those without MHC to have adequate management of their AF care. Interventions directed at AF patients with MHC may help to optimize their outcomes. PMID: 21902447 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5212619 Thu, 01 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5212619 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5212598&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21902448%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: The NAMCS shows that physician use of an EHR with CDS is associated with improved blood pressure control. These findings are important because small improvements in blood pressure control are associated with reductions in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. PMID: 21902448 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5212598 Thu, 01 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5212598 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5212597&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21902449%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: HEDIS quality metrics based on data typically collected from claims undermeasured quality of medication monitoring compared to EHR data. The HEDIS optional specification excluding hospitalized patients from the monitoring measure does not have a significant impact on reported quality. Integration of EHR data into quality measurement may significantly change some organizations' reported quality of care. PMID: 21902449 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5212597 Thu, 01 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5212597 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5146935&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21851136%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusion: The current state of evidence at the time of the study period suggests an LS screening program can be both effective in reducing mortality from CRC and cost-effective. However, direct evidence remains limited and multiple factors could threaten success of such a program. We have identified opportunities for optimizing the efficiency of available screening protocols. While there was enough evidence for our system to proceed with an LS screening program, we recognize the threats to program success and will prospectively collect outcome data supporting empirical examination of the program. PMID: 21851136 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5146935 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 18:04:02 +0100 5146935 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5146934&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21851137%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Measures of resource use and quality of care provide important information about the value of a health plan. Although our analysis did not determine causality, the statistically weak or absent correlations between resource use and quality of care suggest that health plans and practices can create higher value by improving quality of care without large increases in resource use or by maintaining the same quality of care with decreased resource use. PMID: 21851137 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5146934 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 18:04:02 +0100 5146934 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5146933&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21851138%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Purchasers should be aware that evidence is contingent on market environment and study assumptions in considering specific strategies, and be cautious implementing them. The need for a new measurement paradigm for cost and quality that reaches across the care continuum is evident. PMID: 21851138 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5146933 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 18:04:02 +0100 5146933 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5146932&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21851139%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusion: Patients having PTSD had 4.2% to 9.3% higher mean annual per-patient healthcare costs compared with matched control subjects having MDD among patients covered by Medicaid or private insurance. PMID: 21851139 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5146932 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 18:04:02 +0100 5146932 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5146931&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21851140%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Data mining procedures such as cluster analysis can be used to identify discrete groups of patients with specific combinations of comorbid conditions. These clusters suggest the need for a range of care management strategies. Although several of our clusters lend themselves to existing care and disease management protocols, care management for other subgroups is less well-defined. Cluster analysis methods can be leveraged to develop targeted care management interventions designed to improve health outcomes. PMID: 21851140 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5146931 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 18:04:02 +0100 5146931 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5146930&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21851141%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: At the doses used in this population, ezetimibe/simvastatin resulted in greater LDL reductions than rosuvastatin or atorvastatin. The clinical impact of these differences is as yet undetermined. PMID: 21851141 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5146930 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 18:04:02 +0100 5146930 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5146929&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21851142%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Although HCV screening and detection improved in this MCO over an 8-year period, anti-HCV screening was lower than expected. Many persons at risk for HCV remained unscreened. Strategies for improving anti-HCV screening in routine practice are recommended for patients at increased risk. PMID: 21851142 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5146929 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 18:04:02 +0100 5146929 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5146928&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21851143%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Correia EW Abstract The 2010 Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act included a provision to promote the formation of Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs). These organizations will be eligible to share in the savings to Medicare if they are able to reduce costs and provide high-quality care. The law allows a wide variety of organizations to become ACOs, even networks of providers that are small compared with major integrated delivery networks. The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services recently proposed regulations, which are extensive and complex. They impose significant regulatory requirements on these new organizations, ranging from the structure of the organization to quality standards for qualifying for any shared savings. There are a number of challenges to AC... The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5146928 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 18:04:02 +0100 5146928 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5146927&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21851144%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusion: These results imply that in order to avoid productivity losses associated with diabetes, more scarce prevention resources should be spent on prevention of the onset of diabetes than on the management of A1C for those already diagnosed with diabetes. For women, the prevention of prediabetes is key. PMID: 21851144 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5146927 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 18:04:02 +0100 5146927 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5146926&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21851145%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: The FLU-FIT Program is feasible to implement in a high volume influenza vaccination clinic conducted in a managed care setting and increases colorectal cancer screening activity among eligible influenza vaccination recipients who are reached with the intervention. PMID: 21851145 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5146926 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 18:04:02 +0100 5146926 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5131546&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21819166%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Use of a 21-gene assay in patients with early-stage N (1-3)/ER HER2-negative breast cancer may improve health outcomes and add no incremental cost, thereby providing valuable insight for health plans, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and clinicians regarding coverage policies and treatment decisions. PMID: 21819166 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5131546 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 16:00:02 +0100 5131546 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5131545&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21819167%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: SBP control was not maintained in a significant proportion of patients in both groups following hypertension study participation. These findings suggest the need for interventions to focus on longer-term BP control in contrast to the short duration of most hypertension intervention trials. PMID: 21819167 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5131545 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 16:00:02 +0100 5131545 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5131544&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21819168%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Among insured primary care patients, CRC screening use falls short. Further research is needed to determine what factors are barriers to routine fecal occult blood test or colonoscopy use among insured patients who have access to and regularly use primary care and how those barriers can be eliminated. PMID: 21819168 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5131544 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 16:00:02 +0100 5131544 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5131543&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21819169%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Medicare data provide a rich resource for CER. Leveraging existing program elements, combined with some administrative changes in data availability, could create large data sets for evaluating treatment patterns, spending, and coverage decisions. PMID: 21819169 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5131543 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 16:00:02 +0100 5131543 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5131542&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21819170%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: The restricted group had significantly less use of celecoxib, indicating that restriction was effective at reducing celecoxib utilization. Although limitations exist when comparing populations from different health plans, and the underlying causes of serious GI complications are multifactorial, the restricted group had a higher incidence of serious GI complications and higher costs related to serious GI complications and arthritis. PMID: 21819170 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5131542 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 16:00:02 +0100 5131542 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5131541&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21819171%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Standardized educational outreach was not a promising strategy for improving preventive services use among patients who have refused services recommended by their physician. The amount of time required to perform the outreach was substantial. PMID: 21819171 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5131541 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 16:00:02 +0100 5131541 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5131540&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21819172%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: When copayments for prescription drugs were eliminated, low-income patients demonstrated increased compliance with obtaining medications, better response to treatment, and improved blood pressure and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations. Glycemic control did not improve. PMID: 21819172 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5131540 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 16:00:02 +0100 5131540 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5131539&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21819173%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Mandatory mail appears to cause some members to discontinue therapy prematurely, particularly those without previous mailservice pharmacy experience. PMID: 21819173 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5131539 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 16:00:02 +0100 5131539 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5131538&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21819174%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusion: This technology represents an important advance in our ability to capture the patient's opinion regarding quality and practice improvement initiatives, and has the potential for directly engaging patients in their care. PMID: 21819174 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5131538 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 16:00:02 +0100 5131538 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5131537&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21819175%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusion: The system appears to be safe and effective in capturing and integrating adherence and physiologic data. Efforts are under way to enhance system functionalities and refine user interfaces. By providing context-rich information, this system may enhance patient-provider collaboration. PMID: 21819175 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5131537 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 16:00:02 +0100 5131537 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5131536&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21815713%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Stern JM The burden of epilepsy for patients and payers is large and onerous. The heterogeneous nature of the condition and the lack of diagnostic or treatment biomarkers present considerable clinical challenge. Despite expansion of the treatment armamentarium, selection of maximally appropriate therapy for individual patients remains a challenge, especially in those with treatment-refractory epilepsy. While numerous factors play a role in resolving these uncertainties, 3 key factors stand out. An overwhelming quantity of clinical data support the notion that the most effective therapies-measured by the ability to control seizures while minimizing adverse effects-are typically the most cost-effective. A second consideration is maximizing adherence to prescribed therapies, whic... The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5131536 Thu, 30 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5131536 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4940405&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21657810%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Patel VN, Abramson E, Edwards AM, Cheung MA, Dhopeshwarkar RV, Kaushal R To characterize consumers' attitudes about personal health records (PHRs), electronic tools that enable consumers to securely access, manage, and share their health information, in a community participating in health information technology initiatives. PMID: 21657810 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4940405 Sat, 18 Jun 2011 22:45:21 +0100 4940405 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4940404&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21657811%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Elnahal SM, Joynt KE, Bristol SJ, Jha AK To determine whether patterns of electronic health record (EHR) adoption and "meaningful use" vary between high-, intermediate-, and low-quality US hospitals. PMID: 21657811 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4940404 Sat, 18 Jun 2011 22:45:21 +0100 4940404 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4940403&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21657812%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Wasilevich EA, Clark SJ, Cohn LM, Dombkowski KJ To determine the prevalence of long-acting b-agonist (LABA) monotherapy among a Medicaid-enrolled population with asthma and to describe continued LABA monotherapy use. PMID: 21657812 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4940403 Sat, 18 Jun 2011 22:45:21 +0100 4940403 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4940402&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21657813%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Magid DJ, Ho PM, Olson KL, Brand DW, Welch LK, Snow KE, Lambert-Kerzner AC, Plomondon ME, Havranek EP To determine if a multimodal intervention composed of patient education, home blood pressure (BP) monitoring, BP measurement reporting to an interactive voice response (IVR) phone system, and clinical pharmacist follow-up improves BP control compared with usual care. PMID: 21657813 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4940402 Sat, 18 Jun 2011 22:45:21 +0100 4940402 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4740317&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21473657%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Thomas TK Health insurers in India currently face many challenges, including poor consumer awareness, strict regulations, and inefficient business practices. They operate under a combination of stifling administrative costs and high medical expense ratios which have ensured that insurers operate under steep losses. External factors (eg, onerous regulations, lack of standards, high claims payouts) and internal factors (eg, high administrative costs, dependence on indemnity models that cover inpatient treatment costs only) have forced the health insurance industry into a regressive spiral. To overcome these challenges, health insurers need to innovate in their product offerings and tighten their existing processes and cost structures. But as a long-term strategy, it is imperativ... The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4740317 Sat, 23 Apr 2011 00:30:03 +0100 4740317 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4740316&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21473658%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kim CS, Hart AL, Paretti RF, Kuhn L, Dowling AE, Benkeser JL, Spahlinger DA To determine the frequency of and reasons for medically unnecessary hospital days. PMID: 21473658 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4740316 Sat, 23 Apr 2011 00:30:03 +0100 4740316 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4740315&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21473659%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Prentice JC, Fincke BG, Miller DR, Pizer SD To examine the relationship between glycated hemoglobin (A1C) levels and the number of days spent waiting for primary care appointments. PMID: 21473659 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4740315 Sat, 23 Apr 2011 00:30:03 +0100 4740315 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4740314&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21504260%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Dalal AA, Shah M, D'Souza AO, Mapel DW To quantify healthcare use and costs associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) among patients discharged from a COPD-related hospitalization or emergency department (ED) visit on a regimen of fluticasone propionate-salmeterol combination versus other inhaled maintenance therapies. PMID: 21504260 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4740314 Sat, 23 Apr 2011 00:30:03 +0100 4740314 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4740313&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21504261%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Fang H, Peifer KL, Chen J, Rizzo JA To investigate the relationship between the use of health information technology (HIT) and physician perceptions of providing high-quality care and to determine whether this relationship has changed over time. PMID: 21504261 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4740313 Sat, 23 Apr 2011 00:30:03 +0100 4740313 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4740312&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21504262%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Wade MJ, Desai AS, Spettell CM, Snyder AD, McGowan-Stackewicz V, Kummer PJ, Maccoy MC, Krakauer RS To assess the impact of supplementing nurse case management with Internet-connected telemonitoring on clinical outcomes in an elderly heart failure (HF) population. PMID: 21504262 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4740312 Sat, 23 Apr 2011 00:30:03 +0100 4740312 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4740311&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21504263%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Toussaint JS, Queram C, Musser JW To develop an effective way to link statewide healthcare information technology strategy to payment reform. PMID: 21504263 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4740311 Sat, 23 Apr 2011 00:30:03 +0100 4740311 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4564578&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21370933%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lee BY, Tai JH, Bailey RR, McGlone SM, Wiringa AE, Zimmer SM, Smith KJ, Zimmerman RK To develop 3 computer simulation models to determine the potential economic effect of using intravenous (IV) antiviral agents to treat hospitalized patients with influenza-like illness, as well as different testing and treatment strategies. PMID: 21370933 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4564578 Wed, 09 Mar 2011 23:00:03 +0100 4564578 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4564577&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21370934%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Motheral BR To understand why the current telephone-based model of disease management (DM) does not provide cost savings and how DM can be retooled based on the best available evidence to deliver better value. PMID: 21370934 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4564577 Wed, 09 Mar 2011 23:00:03 +0100 4564577 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4564576&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21370935%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kozhimannil KB, Huskamp HA, Graves AJ, Soumerai SB, Ross-Degnan D, Wharam JF To evaluate the impact of switching from an HMO to a high-deductible health plan on the costs and utilization of maternity care. PMID: 21370935 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4564576 Wed, 09 Mar 2011 23:00:03 +0100 4564576 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4564585&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21348565%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Silver HS, Blanchette CM, Kamble S, Petersen H, Letter MA, Meddis D, Gutierrez B To assess whether increased short-acting β2-adrenergic agonist (SABA) claims are associated with asthma exacerbations and increased healthcare costs. PMID: 21348565 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4564585 Sat, 01 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4564585 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4564584&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21348566%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Leider HL, Dhaliwal J, Davis EJ, Kulakodlu M, Buikema AR To assess the health economic burden of chronic opioid users and to determine whether opioid regimen nonadherence contributes to increased healthcare costs. PMID: 21348566 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4564584 Sat, 01 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4564584 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4564583&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21348567%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Boulding W, Glickman SW, Manary MP, Schulman KA, Staelin R To determine whether hospitals where patients report higher overall satisfaction with their interactions among the hospital and staff and specifically their experience with the discharge process are more likely to have lower 30-day readmission rates after adjustment for hospital clinical performance. PMID: 21348567 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4564583 Sat, 01 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4564583 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4564582&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21348568%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Hoffman RM, Steel SR, Yee EF, Massie L, Schrader RM, Moffett ML, Murata GH To determine whether mailing guaiac-based fecal occult blood tests (gFOBTs) directly to patients who are due for colorectal cancer screening would achieve higher screening uptake than using visit-based screening. PMID: 21348568 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4564582 Sat, 01 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4564582 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4564581&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21348569%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Wright WL, Romboli JE, Ditulio MA, Wogen J, Belletti DA To assess blood pressure (BP) control among patients with hypertension managed by nurse practitioners (NPs) vs physicians. PMID: 21348569 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4564581 Sat, 01 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4564581 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4564580&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21348570%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Turbyville SE, Rosenthal MB, Pawlson LG, Scholle SH To examine commercial health plan variation in resource use for members with diabetes and its relationship to the quality of care for these members. PMID: 21348570 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4564580 Sat, 01 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4564580 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4564579&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21348571%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Charlton ME, Levy BT, High RR, Schneider JE, Brooks JM To assess the impact of a health savings account (HSA)-eligible plan on utilization and expenditures in an employer-sponsored Midwestern health plan which offered a traditional plan from 2003 through 2004 that was fully replaced by an HSA-eligible plan in 2005 and 2006. PMID: 21348571 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4564579 Sat, 01 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4564579 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4508499&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314214%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: McKethan A, Brammer C Nested within a growing national consensus that the performance of the US healthcare system needs to be improved are largely distinct "tribes" of experts with varying interpretations of what would constitute improvement: the quality improvement tribe, the payment reform tribe, the consumer engagement tribe, and the HIT tribe. PMID: 21314214 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4508499 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4508499 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4508498&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314215%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Glaser J Through the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act, the federal government is making up to $27 billion available in incentive payments, followed by penalties, over 10 years for eligible professionals and hospitals. HITECH is extended by the sections of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) that deal with payment reform. Of particular importance are those sections that discuss accountable care organizations and the different ways that Medicare will pay for care. These changes may be more significant to the industry and to healthcare information technology (HIT) than the "meaningful use" regulation itself. In some ways, meaningful use becomes the tactical plan for achieving the strategic plan outlined by PPACA. The H... The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4508498 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4508498 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4508497&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314216%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Stark P The Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act, which was enacted as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, calls for an unprecedented federal investment in health information technology (IT). Incentive payments will be made available through the Medicare programs and Medicaid to doctors and hospitals that use health IT in a meaningful way (ie, to advance delivery of high-quality healthcare). These IT systems have to be certified as meeting certain technological standards. The Congressional Budget Office has projected that HITECH will reduce federal and private sector spending on health services during the next decade by tens of billions of dollars by increasing efficiency. PMID: 21314216 [PubMed - in process] (... The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4508497 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4508497 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4508496&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314217%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Gingrich N, Hasan M The economic stimulus law of 2009 included incentive payments to encourage providers and hospitals to adopt and "meaningfully use" electronic health records. One resource was excluded from these regulations: patient data from the patient's health insurer, although health insurance companies tie together multiple sectors of the healthcare industry in a single patient-centered data form known as the claims history. They also have considerable experience with information technology (IT). As a result, they are uniquely positioned to move adoption of health IT systems forward. Health plan technologies should be included in the meaningful-use requirements. The result will be additional functionality, which in the end will improve quality, lower costs, and improve... The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4508496 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4508496 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4508495&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314218%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ciriello JN, Kulatilaka N Investments in health information technology are accelerating the digitization of medicine. The value from these investments, however, can grow beyond efficiencies by filling the information gaps between the various stakeholders. New work processes, governance structures, and relationships are needed for the coevolution of healthcare markets and business models. But coevolution is slow, hindered by the scarcity of incentives for legacy delivery systems and constrained by the prevailing patient-healthcare paradigm. The greater opportunity lies in wellness for individuals, families, communities, and society at large: a consumer-community paradigm. Capturing new value from this opportunity can start with investment in health information exchange and the ... The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4508495 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4508495 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4508494&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314219%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Cohen SB, Grote KD, Pietraszek WE, Laflamme F In healthcare, consumerism is not a product or program. Instead, it is an orientation to new care delivery models that encourage and enable greater patient responsibility through the intelligent use of information technology. Despite the promise of consumerism, current approaches have not fully realized the potential benefits of improved outcomes and lower cost. We recommend 4 guiding principles to ensure that next-generation innovation yields the returns that providers, patients, and other stakeholders expect: (1) keep the consumer at the center of innovation, (2) keep it simple, (3) link products and services to a broader "ecosystem" of care, and (4) encourage health in addition to treating illness. Now may be a particularly comp... The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4508494 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4508494 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4508493&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314220%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Navathe AS, Conway PH Health information technology (IT) is a key enabler of comparative effectiveness research (CER). Health IT standards for data sharing are essential to advancing the research data infrastructure, and health IT is critical to the next step of incorporating clinical data into data sources. Four key principles for advancement of CER are (1) utilization of data as a strategic asset, (2) leveraging public-private partnerships, (3) building robust, scalable technology platforms, and (4) coordination of activities across government agencies. To maximize the value of the resources, payers and providers must contribute data to initiatives, engage with government agencies on lessons learned, continue to develop new technologies that address key challenges, and utili... The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4508493 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4508493 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4508492&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314221%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Tuckson RV, Vojta D, Slavitt AM UnitedHealth Group constructed the Diabetes Prevention and Control Alliance (DPCA) in a manner consistent with the recommendations for health system redesign outlined in the Institute of Medicine's Crossing the Quality Chasm. This evidence-based, multidisciplinary education and intervention program is enabled by a state-of-the-art health information technology (HIT) infrastructure. DPCA coordinates and connects a variety of interventions through HIT, including community-based services offered by YMCAs and local pharmacists. Our initial experience in operating DPCA gives us confidence that large-scale prevention and disease control management programs make economic sense, are worthy of front-end investment, and can achieve cost-effective results.... The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4508492 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4508492 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4508491&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314222%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Triola MM, Friedman E, Cimino C, Geyer EM, Wiederhorn J, Mainiero C Medical schools must teach core biomedical informatics competencies that address health information technology (HIT), including explaining electronic medical record systems and computerized provider order entry systems and their role in patient safety; describing the research uses and limitations of a clinical data warehouse; understanding the concepts and importance of information system interoperability; explaining the difference between biomedical informatics and HIT; and explaining the ways clinical information systems can fail. Barriers to including these topics in the curricula include lack of teachers; the perception that informatics competencies are not applicable during preclinical courses and there i... The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4508491 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4508491 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4508490&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314223%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Davis NL, Myers L, Myers ZE The movement toward improvement in healthcare quality and patient safety has led to greater emphasis on practice performance measurement and physician accountability. Health information technology provides clinical data for quality measurement but hasn't provided the link to practice-based learning and improvement. An electronic portfolio for practice-based learning and improvement (ePortfolio) that combines practice data for identification of competency and performance gaps along with learning and process interventions offers true practice-based learning and performance improvement. Automated reporting can assist in the ever-increasing burden of documentation for maintenance of licensure, maintenance of specialty board certification, credentialing,... The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4508490 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4508490 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4508489&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314224%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Adibe BA, Jain SH PMID: 21314224 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4508489 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4508489 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4508488&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314225%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Jones SS, Adams JL, Schneider EC, Ringel JS, McGlynn EA To estimate the relationship between quality improvement and electronic health record (EHR) adoption in US hospitals. PMID: 21314225 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4508488 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4508488 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4508487&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314226%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Schnipper JL, Linder JA, Palchuk MB, Yu DT, McColgan KE, Volk LA, Tsurikova R, Melnikas AJ, Einbinder JS, Middleton B To evaluate whether a new documentation-based clinical decision support system (CDSS) is effective in addressing deficiencies in the care of patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and diabetes mellitus (DM). PMID: 21314226 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4508487 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4508487 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4508486&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314227%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Jain SH, Blumenthal D PMID: 21314227 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4508486 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4508486 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4508485&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314228%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Misono AS, Cutrona SL, Choudhry NK, Fischer MA, Stedman MR, Liberman JN, Brennan TA, Jain SH, Shrank WH To determine the efficacy of healthcare information technology (HIT) interventions in improving adherence. PMID: 21314228 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4508485 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4508485 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4508484&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314229%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Bero CL, Lee TH In 2002, Partners HealthCare (Partners) launched a strategy to accelerate the use of ambulatory electronic medical records across its network of 6000 physicians. Through focus on quality software products, creation of a system of financial incentives, and active engagement of health system leadership, Partners reached high levels of physician adoption by late 2006. Partners eventually introduced a mandate that made ambulatory electronic medical record use a requirement for all of its physicians. During this multi-year initiative, Partners also focused on the effective use of electronic medical records and introduced a series of tactics designed to optimize the use of these systems. With introduction of the meaningful-use concepts in the Health Information Techn... The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4508484 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4508484 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4508483&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21322295%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Rubin AD, McFerran VA The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Health System seeks to align its purpose of "healing humankind" with its approaches for people and performance management. These approaches include lean process improvements initiatives, sustained by efforts to impact daily team member work flows. The electronic health record (EHR) serves as a powerful supportive instrument in improving processes and sustaining performance. For UCLA, the secret to EHR effectiveness lies in creating win-win situations, where organizational objectives are achieved and team member work flows also are improved. Recent UCLA initiatives with medication bar-coding and a stroke telemedicine network highlight such opportunities. Carried out on a national level, such efforts can sign... The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4508483 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4508483 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4508482&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21322296%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Blavin FE, Buntin MJ, Friedman CP To develop measures of the use of electronic health records (EHRs) that accurately reflect the full continuum of hospital adoption and progress toward meaningful use and to understand the intercorrelations and patterns associated with hospital adoption of specific EHR functions. PMID: 21322296 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4508482 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4508482 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4508481&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21322300%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Hill RD, Luptak MK, Rupper RW, Bair B, Peterson C, Dailey N, Hicken BL The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is a leader in developing and implementing innovative healthcare technology. We review 19 exemplary peer-reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2009 of controlled, VHA-supported telemedicine intervention trials that focused on health outcomes. These trials underscore the role of telemedicine in large managed healthcare organizations in support of (1) chronic disease management, (2) mental health service delivery through in-home monitoring and treatment, and (3) interdisciplinary team functioning through electronic medical record information interchange. Telemedicine is advantageous when ongoing monitoring of patient symptoms is needed, as in chronic disease car... The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4508481 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4508481 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4508480&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21322301%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Linder JA, Schnipper JL, Tsurikova R, Yu DT, Volk LA, Melnikas AJ, Palchuk MB, Olsha-Yehiav M, Middleton B To examine whether the Acute Respiratory Infection (ARI) Quality Dashboard, an electronic health record (EHR)-based feedback system, changed antibiotic prescribing. PMID: 21322301 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4508480 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4508480 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4508479&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21322303%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Maxson ER, Buntin MJ, Mostashari F To determine whether electronic prescribing transaction data can be used to accurately and efficiently track national and regional electronic health record (EHR) adoption in order to evaluate progress toward national goals and identify and address regional disparities. PMID: 21322303 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4508479 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4508479 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4508478&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21322304%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Armijo DC, Lammers EJ, Smith DG This commentary is meant to set the stage for further discussion about how the objective of a learning healthcare system can be advanced through better specifying requirements to support secondary data use. Recent federal initiatives seek to foster widespread health information technology adoption in the hopes of improving the efficiency and efficacy of our nation's health system. Development of a framework for codifying clinical outcomes would support those objectives primarily though making it easier to uncover associative patterns in patient care data. Put simply, the explicit classification of patient outcomes at the point of care seems to be a prerequisite to foster the most rapid exploration of achievable outcomes and their determinants. C... The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4508478 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4508478 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4508477&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21322305%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Nemani KL PMID: 21322305 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4508477 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4508477 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4197421&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21087072%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusion: An electronic age-specific alert targeted to a specific condition reduced D-dimer testing in this elderly population of outpatients and demonstrated a persistent effect. PMID: 21087072 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4197421 Wed, 24 Nov 2010 19:15:02 +0100 4197421 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4197420&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21087073%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Solo general dentists with office overhead costs greater than or equal to the national mean likely find that the capitation amounts paid by insurance companies are an unfair compensation or are incompatible with their income objectives. Participation by solo general practitioners in capitation plans with such compensation levels would be problematic or unlikely. PMID: 21087073 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4197420 Wed, 24 Nov 2010 19:15:02 +0100 4197420 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4197419&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21087074%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: HEDIS-defined persistent asthma is generally consistent with survey-defined persistent asthma. Persistent asthma usually remains persistent over a 3-year period, indicating that it is a stable characteristic of asthma for most patients. The low survey response rate suggests that further population-based studies will be necessary to confirm the validity and generalizability of our study findings regarding persistent asthma. PMID: 21087074 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4197419 Wed, 24 Nov 2010 19:15:02 +0100 4197419 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4106472&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20964475%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: A medication reconciliation program may have led to a high rate of perfectly accurate drug profiles; while its purpose is to increase accuracy and to decrease errors, it may also assist in reducing adverse drug events. Results show that copayment amounts influence drug utilization; these may be associated with errors of commission and omission and not simply with copayment status. PMID: 20964475 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4106472 Tue, 26 Oct 2010 18:05:04 +0100 4106472 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4106471&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20964476%26dopt%3DAbstract We describe the initial experience with a first-to-market health insurance product design based on principles of both member and purchaser accountability. Two benefit levels were offered, enhanced and standard. Qualification for the enhanced benefit level was obtained through members' commitment to follow their physicians' recommended treatment plan. Employers were offered a discount of 10% in exchange for offering this new product and promoting a healthy work environment. Membership in the product grew beyond expectations, and several health improvements were noted. PMID: 20964476 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4106471 Tue, 26 Oct 2010 18:05:04 +0100 4106471 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4106470&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20964477%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Delivery of care recommendations for DM and CVD improved after implementation of a PST. More research is necessary to optimize results and determine whether patient outcomes improve. PMID: 20964477 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4106470 Tue, 26 Oct 2010 18:05:04 +0100 4106470 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4023775&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20873948%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Together with their clinical colleagues, clinical laboratorians should review their menu of tests and consider removing tests that do not provide clinical benefit. In most cases, alternative tests are already in clinical use. PMID: 20873948 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4023775 Sat, 02 Oct 2010 16:15:10 +0100 4023775 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4023774&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20873949%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Proton pump inhibitors are often overused in the ambulatory care setting without documented valid indications. Inappropriate use of PPIs is associated with substantial cost expenditure and with the potential for adverse events. PMID: 20873949 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4023774 Sat, 02 Oct 2010 16:15:10 +0100 4023774 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4023773&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20873950%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Our study suggests that even if LAIV were sometimes used inadvertently in clinical practice in young children for whom it is not indicated, the overall balance of expected benefits and risks would remain favorable. PMID: 20873950 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4023773 Sat, 02 Oct 2010 16:15:10 +0100 4023773 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4023772&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20873951%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Margolius D, Bodenheimer T About 32 million Americans have uncontrolled hypertension, and the impending shortage of primary care physicians could result in worsening blood pressure control. The "Treat to Target" approach to hypertension in primary care has the potential to increase hypertension control while off-loading a portion of hypertension management from physicians to other team members. "Treat to Target" involves 3 components: home self-monitoring of blood pressure, regular health coaching for patients with elevated blood pressure, and home titration of blood pressure medications based on standing orders from the patient's physician. To implement "Treat to Target" in primary care, public and private health insurance plans and primary care practices should receive payme... The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4023772 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4023772 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4023771&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20873952%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: An integrated model of diabetes care is generalizable and should be considered by policy makers to improve diabetes outcomes, especially among underserved minority populations. PMID: 20873952 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4023771 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4023771 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4023770&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20873953%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Existing women-specific VHA organizational features with integration of primary care and mental health seem effective in diagnosing depression. Emerging patient-centered medical home models may facilitate diagnosis and treatment of mental health issues among women with complex chronic conditions. PMID: 20873953 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4023770 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4023770 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4023769&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20873954%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: About half of the patients in this study did not fill any smoking cessation medication following a rejected varenicline claim. It is important to address this treatment gap in support of patients seeking smoking cessation therapy. PMID: 20873954 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4023769 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4023769 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4023768&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20873955%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: As primary prophylaxis, CSF use is underutilized based on recommendations for patients having cancer who receive chemotherapy regimens carrying high febrile neutropenia risk and may be overutilized for patients who receive chemotherapy regimens carrying low febrile neutropenia risk. Further research is needed to understand the barriers to implementing guidelines in clinical practice. PMID: 20873955 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4023768 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4023768 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4023767&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20873956%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Roughly half of the studied patients with cancer indicated that they preferred to have a collaborative relationship with physicians. Although most patients had the decision-making role they preferred, about 40% experienced discordance. This highlights the need for incorporation of individualized patient communication styles into treatment plans. PMID: 20873956 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4023767 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4023767 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4023766&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20873957%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: The most current estimates of direct costs for metastatic breast cancer do not represent the full societal impact of the disease. Further research is needed to fully understand how different treatment options for metastatic breast cancer affect overall societal costs in the United States, and how outcomes in the palliative setting are valued by society. PMID: 20873957 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4023766 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4023766 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3849650&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20690785%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Patients with MDD who failed to respond to antidepressant treatment as evidenced by poor self-reported mental health status used more healthcare resources, were less likely to be employed, and had more work productivity loss than those who responded to antidepressant therapy. PMID: 20690785 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3849650 Tue, 10 Aug 2010 21:45:03 +0100 3849650 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3849649&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20690786%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: The off-label usage pattern varied for individual anticonvulsants in 2004 and 2005. Future considerations for controlling off-label use may include requiring prior authorization and provider education. PMID: 20690786 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3849649 Tue, 10 Aug 2010 21:45:03 +0100 3849649 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3849648&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20690787%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Employees expressed a stronger preference to prevent influenza in their children than in themselves or other household members; however, modifiable barriers depress vaccination rates. PMID: 20690787 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3849648 Tue, 10 Aug 2010 21:45:03 +0100 3849648 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3849647&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20690788%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Specific search engine queries for medical information correlate with pharmaceutical revenue and with overall healthcare utilization in a community. This suggests that search query data can track community-wide characteristics in healthcare utilization and have the potential for informing payers and policy makers regarding trends in utilization. PMID: 20690788 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3849647 Tue, 10 Aug 2010 21:45:03 +0100 3849647 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3784793&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20645660%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Adherence to prescribed therapy among patients with mild asthma may be better with mometasone furoate versus beclomethasone dipropionate, as reflected in fewer exacerbations and more limited use of SABA rescue medications. Improved adherence to mometasone furoate versus beclomethasone dipropionate may be related to a simpler dosing regimen (ie, once daily vs twice daily). PMID: 20645660 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3784793 Sat, 24 Jul 2010 20:45:03 +0100 3784793 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3784792&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20645661%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: A disease management program for high-risk patients with diabetes and CAD was effective in reducing hospital inpatient admission and total costs in a Medicare Advantage population. PMID: 20645661 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3784792 Sat, 24 Jul 2010 20:45:03 +0100 3784792 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3784791&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20645662%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that routine preoperative MRSA screening of cardiac surgery patients could provide substantial economic value to third-party payers and hospitals over a wide range of MRSA colonization prevalence levels, decolonization success rates, and surveillance costs. Healthcare administrators, infection control specialists, and surgeons can compare their local conditions with our study's benchmarks to make decisions about whether to implement preoperative MRSA testing. Third-party payers may want to consider covering such a strategy. PMID: 20645662 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3784791 Sat, 24 Jul 2010 20:45:03 +0100 3784791 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3784790&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20645663%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Both LAGB and LRYGB provide significant weight loss and are cost-effective compared with no treatment at conventionally accepted thresholds for medical interventions. PMID: 20645663 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3784790 Sat, 24 Jul 2010 20:45:03 +0100 3784790 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3784789&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20645664%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Even among drugs for which there is general consensus that laboratory monitoring is important, the prevalence of monitoring is highly variable. Furthermore, infrequently prescribed medications are at higher risk for poor monitoring. PMID: 20645664 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3784789 Wed, 30 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3784789 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3784788&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20645665%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Lessons from behavioral economics may greatly enhance the design and effectiveness of P4P programs in healthcare, but future work is needed to demonstrate this empirically. PMID: 20645665 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3784788 Wed, 30 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3784788 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3784787&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20645666%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Pharmacy utilization increases in the years prior to initial COPD diagnosis. Algorithms based on pharmacy utilization can efficiently identify persons at risk for undiagnosed COPD. PMID: 20645666 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3784787 Wed, 30 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3784787 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3784786&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20645667%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Disparities in chemotherapy selection exist among patients receiving chemotherapy for stage IV colorectal cancer. On initiating chemotherapy, African American patients and older patients were less likely to receive a newer agent. PMID: 20645667 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3784786 Wed, 30 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3784786 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3784785&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20645668%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Further studies that focus on these long-term and indirect expenditures are essential to assess the impact of new treatments on total stroke costs. Overall, the high costs associated with stroke clearly indicate there is an imperative need for effective preventive therapy, early critical care, and rehabilitation, which in turn will reduce the national expenditure for stroke-related healthcare services and improve productivity. PMID: 20645668 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3784785 Wed, 30 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3784785 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3784784&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20645669%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: More high-quality, current cost-effectiveness research for stroke centers, care networks, and telemedicine is needed to inform treatment decisions and resource utilization. PMID: 20645669 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3784784 Wed, 30 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3784784 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3659252&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20536270%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Hoff T PMID: 20536270 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3659252 Mon, 14 Jun 2010 17:33:02 +0100 3659252 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3659251&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20536271%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: The NAMCS and NHAMCS provide baseline data to estimate the effects of HPV vaccination and HPV DNA testing on cervical cancer screening policy. These future technologies may result in changes to cervical cancer screening policies and, when fully accepted and implemented, may reduce economic costs associated with cervical cancer in the United States. PMID: 20536271 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3659251 Mon, 14 Jun 2010 17:33:02 +0100 3659251 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3659250&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20536272%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: By conducting our simulations in the actual environment of care, using intact teams of healthcare professionals who practiced their actual technologies and work processes during the simulation, we could identify latent environmental threats to patient safety that could never be explored in an artificial laboratory environment. PMID: 20536272 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3659250 Mon, 14 Jun 2010 17:33:02 +0100 3659250 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3560924&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20455636%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Notifying patients and providers about FDA safety alerts does influence clinical decision making. The lay media should partner with the FDA to responsibly communicate drug safety information in evidence-based, understandable terms that quantify real risk. PMID: 20455636 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3560924 Fri, 14 May 2010 08:00:03 +0100 3560924 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3560923&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20455637%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: The year 2010 represents a year of favorable changes to Medicare Part D for beneficiaries. Although some patients will still face the coverage gap in the coming year, the trend toward a more robust benefit with enhanced patient protections continues. PMID: 20455637 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3560923 Fri, 14 May 2010 08:00:03 +0100 3560923 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3560922&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20455638%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Men's perceptions about treatment efficacy and the personal burden of treatment dominated preferences for surgery versus nonsurgical options. Interventions to aid treatment decision making should account for these elements to minimize the impact of physician biases and patient misperceptions on men's decisions as how best to manage their prostate cancer. PMID: 20455638 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3560922 Fri, 14 May 2010 08:00:03 +0100 3560922 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3560921&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20455639%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Sox HC, Helfand M, Grimshaw J, Dickersin K, , Tovey D, Knottnerus JA, Tugwell P PMID: 20455639 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3560921 Fri, 14 May 2010 08:00:03 +0100 3560921 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3446037&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20370310%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Despite high rates of IT use, there was only a modest association between physicians' use of IT and better knowledge of drug costs. Future investments in health IT should consider how IT design can be improved to make it easier for physicians to access cost information at the point of care. PMID: 20370310 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3446037 Thu, 08 Apr 2010 13:54:03 +0100 3446037 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3446036&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20370311%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Soper AM, Reeder CE, Brown LM, Stojanovska A, Lennert BJ Payers recognize the need to expand benefits management for oncology but struggle to find effective solutions amid the complexity of available therapies and skepticism from oncologists, who are facing their own set of economic pressures. An effort called the National Oncology Working Group (NOW) Initiative is trying to change the sometimes adversarial relationship between payers and oncologists through a collaborative model. The group, which is supported by pharmaceutical manufacturer sanofi-aventis, is developing patient-centered strategies for successful and sustainable oncology benefits management. The focus includes finding consensus between payers and providers and devising solutions for oncology management such as ... The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3446036 Thu, 08 Apr 2010 13:54:03 +0100 3446036 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3446035&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20370312%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: The BIT program is a cost-effective choice for weight management. It may cost more initially, but it results in long-term cost savings. Such cost-effective, Internet-based behavioral interventions for weight management could provide a valuable tool for preventive care aimed at improving individual and societal health. PMID: 20370312 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3446035 Thu, 08 Apr 2010 13:54:03 +0100 3446035 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3351303&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20205491%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: In a setting in which ability to pay is neutralized, inpatient stroke rehabilitation service in this universal NHI program was equitable but inadequate relative to use elsewhere or estimated need. Less severe case mix and financial or human resources constraints might partially account for the low utilization. Further studies measuring stroke severity and functional status are needed to clarify the actual utilization, requirements, and cost-effectiveness of inpatient stroke rehabilitation services. PMID: 20205491 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3351303 Thu, 11 Mar 2010 12:56:02 +0100 3351303