MedWorm: American Health

Reid Pushes For Votes on Health-care Bill

RWJF News Digest - Health Insurance Coverage — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 13:39:30 +0100

Senate Majority Leader Harry M. Reid worked Thursday to nail down the votes needed to move to a final debate on health-care legislation, but a tepid assessment of the public insurance plan he crafted emerged as the latest potential obstacle to the passage of the far-reaching changes. (Source: RWJF News Digest - Health Insurance Coverage)

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Thanks for the Reminder (Gwen Moritz Editor's Note)

Arkansas Business - Health Care — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 13:39:21 +0100

Those of us who are still drawing paychecks can be especially thankful this year. An awful lot of good people in almost every field are out of work these days. (Source: Arkansas Business - Health Care)

Popeye's Near The University of Arkansas at Little Rock Sells For $1.15 Million (Real Deals)

Arkansas Business - Health Care — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 13:39:21 +0100

A look at important real estate transactions in Pulaski County. (Source: Arkansas Business - Health Care)

Nebraska Senator Will Vote to Start Health Debate

NYT — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 03:47:42 +0100

Senator Ben Nelson of Nebraska, one of three wavering Democrats, said Friday that he would vote to start debate on a giant health care bill. (Source: NYT)

U. of Nebraska Defeats Tighter Limits on Stem Cell Research

NYT — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 03:41:42 +0100

The effort had been seen by opponents as a possible new front in the national debate over the matter. (Source: NYT)

U.S. Attorney News Release: Camano Island Man Indicted for Scheme to Steal and Sell Diabetic Supplies

Food and Drug Administration — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 03:13:00 +0100

MICHAEL RALPH WORLEY, 43, of Camano Island, Washington, and DONALD ALAN PEPIN, 55, of Jupiter, Florida, were charged late yesterday by a federal grand jury in Seattle, Washington, with Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud and Engage in Interstate Transportation of Stolen Property and six counts of Wire Fraud. WORLEY is also charged with two counts of Interstate Transportation of Stolen Goods, while PEPIN is charged with two counts of Receipt of Stolen Goods. The conspiracy involved the theft of diabetic supplies, including insulin, from an Everett, Washington, Pharmacy. The insulin and other supplies were then sold to PEPIN for distribution to the public. Both men will be summoned to appear in federal court in Seattle for arraignment. (Source: Food and Drug Administration)

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Dialysis Unit Closing Hits Illegal Immigrants Hard

NYT — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 03:10:04 +0100

When an Atlanta hospital closed its dialysis unit, many illegal immigrants had to scramble to find treatment. (Source: NYT)

Ex-Smoker Wins Against Philip Morris

NYT — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 02:27:25 +0100

If it survives an appeal, the verdict late Thursday would be the nation’s largest award of damages to an individual suing a tobacco company. (Source: NYT)

Patient Money: How to Find Mental Health Care When Money Is Tight

NYT — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 01:57:21 +0100

Hot lines, online groups and organizations that charge fees on a sliding scale are options for finding help. (Source: NYT)

Cancer Guidelines Scrutinized

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Having read the front-page story "Changing Strategy" [Nov. 17], I was absolutely shocked. I am a breast cancer survivor and it was a self-examination that led to my diagnosis. Yet, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force has the audacity to recommend... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

UConn Scraps Plan To Merge Health Center With Hartford Hospital

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

University of Connecticut leaders have scrapped a proposal to merge the UConn Health Center with Hartford Hospital, determining that the latest plan for the health center's future could not win enough support to succeed. That leaves university leaders in... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

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Meridia (sibutramine hydrochloride): Early Communication about an Ongoing Safety Review

FDA MedWatch — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 23:00:00 +0100

FDA is reviewing preliminary data from a recent study suggesting that patients using sibutramine have a higher number of cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke, resuscitated cardiac arrest, or death) than patients using a placebo. (Source: FDA MedWatch)

Weekly FluView Map and Surveillance Report for Week ending November 14, 2009

PandemicFlu.gov RSS Feed for News Releases — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 22:30:00 +0100

(Source: PandemicFlu.gov RSS Feed for News Releases)

Dendreon says FDA will disclose Provenge’s fate by May 1

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:37:14 +0100

Dendreon Corp. said the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said it will make a regulatory decision on the biotech’s Provenge prostate cancer drug by May 1, 2010. (DNDN) (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Grijalva pushing to kill Stupak amendment to health care reform

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:37:07 +0100

U.S. Rep. Raul Grijalva, D-Ariz., said Friday he wants abortions covered in federal health care reforms including a public option system pushed by the Obama administration. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

McCain promises to fight public option as health reforms face key Senate votes

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:31:17 +0100

U.S. Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., is pledging to fight health care reform efforts as the Senate prepares to hold its first full-chamber vote on health reforms Saturday. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

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Tampa Bay Partnership celebrates with Brookings fellow

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:04:38 +0100

The Tampa Bay Partnership celebrated its 15th anniversary at its annual meeting and community update luncheon Friday afternoon. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

H1N1 vaccine available to all Albertans over six months of age starting Nov. 23

Alberta.ca from- Health and Wellness — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:01:00 +0100

Given a positive resolution to the national vaccine shortage, and good uptake of vaccine among the highest-risk groups previously announced, Alberta’s H1N1 immunization program will expand to include all members of the public starting Monday, Nov. 23. (Source: Alberta.ca from- Health and Wellness)

Kansas City-area hospitals join to fight bloodstream infections

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 20:51:23 +0100

Fourteen Kansas City-area and Northwest Missouri hospitals are participating in a program to fight bloodstream infections, the Missouri Hospital Association said Friday. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

WHO Updates International H1N1 Flu Situation

PandemicFlu.gov RSS Feed for News Releases — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 20:30:00 +0100

As of 15 November 2009, worldwide more than 206 countries and overseas territories or communities have reported laboratory confirmed cases of pandemic influenza H1N1 2009, including over 6770 deaths. (Source: PandemicFlu.gov RSS Feed for News Releases)

Public Health Significance of Virus Mutation detected in Norway

PandemicFlu.gov RSS Feed for News Releases — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 20:30:00 +0100

The Norwegian Institute of Public Health has informed WHO of a mutation detected in three H1N1 viruses. The viruses were isolated from the first two fatal cases of pandemic influenza in the country and one patient with severe illness. (Source: PandemicFlu.gov RSS Feed for News Releases)

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When health screening has a downside

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 20:19:00 +0100

It seemed like a good idea at the time. In 1984, Japan began screening the urine of six-month-old infants for neuroblastoma, the most common type of solid tumor in young children. The test was simple and could show signs of cancer long before clinical... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

Fitch: Dousman senior facility still strong

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 20:07:32 +0100

Fitch Ratings affirmed its ‘A-’ rating and underlying rating on approximately $20 million in Wisconsin Health and Educational Facilities Authority revenue bonds issued in 2003 and 2004 for Three Pillars Senior Living Communities in Dousman. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Next hospital to stop delivering babies: Mercy Suburban in East Norriton

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 19:49:34 +0100

Mercy Suburban Hospital announced it plans to stop delivering babies after June 30, 2010. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Marlton Rehabilitation Hospital names new CEO

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 19:40:44 +0100

Marlton Rehabilitation Hospital, a 49-bed specialty medical center, named Michael Long as its new chief executive officer Thursday. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Study: Maryland ranks No. 21 in overall health

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 19:39:40 +0100

Maryland residents are healthier this year compared with last, though high obesity rates and infectious diseases remain significant health challenges. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

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Miami Valley Hospital relocating health clinics

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 19:15:26 +0100

Miami Valley Hospital is preparing to relocate six clinics from its campus on Wyoming Street to a 19,000-square-foot building on South Ludlow Street. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

CambridgeSoft financing worth $31M

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 18:36:35 +0100

CambridgeSoft Corp. has disclosed the dollar value of a private financing it announced earlier this week, reporting in a regualtory filing that the equity funding received from Health Evolution Partners and Goldman Sachs & Co. was worth $31.3 million. The value of the deal was previously undisclosed. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

St. Vincent Opening Arkansas Neuroscience Institute

Arkansas Business - Health Care — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 18:33:54 +0100

The medical facility will introduce three neurosurgeons who will practice at the institute. (Source: Arkansas Business - Health Care)

Gates Foundation gives $15M to combat sleeping sickness

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 18:27:32 +0100

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is giving $15 million to the Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative to treat human African trypanosomiasis, also known as sleeping sickness. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

CDC Watching H1N1 Mutation, but No Cause for Alarm

MedPage Today Public Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 18:01:29 +0100

The CDC is keeping a careful eye on a mutation in some strains of the pandemic H1N1 flu that Norwegian researchers isolated from three patients with severe disease. (Source: MedPage Today Public Health)

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Lincoln a Question Mark as Senate Pushes Toward Health Care Vote

Arkansas Business - Health Care — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 17:13:58 +0100

Senate Democratic leaders push toward a crucial weekend test vote on their sweeping health care bill. (Source: Arkansas Business - Health Care)

High-Income Surtax: How Not to Pay for Health Care

The Heritage Foundation Papers: Health Care — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 17:07:13 +0100

Congress is proposing a surtax on high-income individuals to help pay for health care reform that would burden the economy and slow its recovery from the recession. (Source: The Heritage Foundation Papers: Health Care)

SinoFresh says study supports H1N1 treatment

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:54:07 +0100

SinoFresh Healthcare Products Inc. said the company’s nasal spray product showed positive results in a study of the treatment of the H1N1 flu virus. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Taxes Proposed to Pay for Health Care Reform

The Heritage Foundation Papers: Health Care — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:10:10 +0100

The U.S. Senate's proposal for a government-run hostile takeover of the entire U.S. health care system includes a barrage of higher taxes. (Source: The Heritage Foundation Papers: Health Care)

University of Nebraska regents vote not to further restrict embryonic stem-cell research rules

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:08:00 +0100

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The University of Nebraska's governing board on Friday voted not to place tighter restrictions on embryonic stem cell research than those outlined under federal guidelines, which were expanded after President Barack Obama took... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

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New Publication Offers Relief to Those Suffering from Pain and Other Distressing Symptoms of Illness

National Institutes of Health (NIH) News Releases — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:05:00 +0100

Dealing with the symptoms of a serious illness is difficult. But help is available -- a new brochure describes a comprehensive treatment that helps reduce or eliminate the pain and other distressing symptoms of illness and medical treatments. "Palliative Care: The Relief You Need When You're Experiencing the Symptoms of Serious Illness," produced by the National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR), a component of the National Institutes of Health, explains in easy-to-understand language what palliative care is, who it benefits, and how it works. (Source: National Institutes of Health (NIH) News Releases)

Gephardt pushes for more investment in medical research, says it can cut costs, find cures

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:42:00 +0100

JOHNSTON, Iowa (AP) — Former U.S. Rep. Richard Gephardt pushed Friday for Iowa to expand its focus on public health, arguing the state has the medical infrastructure in place to make it a leader in the field. "Iowa, having great research... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

Southern States Request Additional Funding for HIV/AIDS Programs

RWJF News Digest - Public Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:39:41 +0100

Health care advocates and providers are calling for additional federal and state funding to administer outreach programs for individuals with HIV/AIDS living in Southern states, the Associated Press reports. (Source: RWJF News Digest - Public Health)

Notifiable Diseases/Deaths in Selected Cities Weekly Information

CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:39:36 +0100

(Source: CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report)

QuickStats: Percentage of Adults Aged ≥18 Years Reported to Have Excellent or Very Good Health, by Race --- National Health Interview Survey, United States, 2008

CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:39:36 +0100

(Source: CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report)

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Announcement: Journal Supplement on Developing the Public Health Workforce

CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:39:36 +0100

(Source: CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report)

Mumps Outbreak --- New York, New Jersey, Quebec, 2009

CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:39:36 +0100

(Source: CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report)

Outbreak of Rickettsia typhi Infection --- Austin, Texas, 2008

CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:39:36 +0100

(Source: CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report)

West Nile Virus Transmission via Organ Transplantation and Blood Transfusion --- Louisiana, 2008

CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:39:36 +0100

(Source: CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report)

Estimated County-Level Prevalence of Diabetes and Obesity --- United States, 2007

CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:39:36 +0100

(Source: CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report)

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American Diabetes Month --- November 2009

CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:39:36 +0100

(Source: CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report)

Medicare May Pay for Ornish, Pritikin Programs

MedPage Today Public Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:31:08 +0100

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services said it was considering Medicare payment for the diet and exercise programs developed by Dean Ornish, MD, and Nathan Pritikin for reversing coronary heart disease. (Source: MedPage Today Public Health)

The Joint Commission Introduces Perinatal Care Core Measures

Joint Commission News Releases — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100

Media Contact: Ken PowersMedia Relations Manager630-792-5175kpowers@jointcommission.org (OAKBROOK TERRACE, Ill. – November 20, 2009) Beginning next year, Joint Commission accredited hospitals will be able to report on a set of perinatal care core measures to meet Joint Commission accreditation... (Source: Joint Commission News Releases)

Players union says doctor who co-chairs NFL committee on concussions is not fit for job

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:19:00 +0100

NEW YORK (AP) — The NFL Players Association wants the league to remove the co-chairman of the league's committee on concussions because the union believes he is biased. Dr. Ira Casson has criticized independent and league-sponsored studies... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

Guidelines say less frequent Paps OK to detect cervical cancer - every 2 years for under-30

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:03:00 +0100

WASHINGTON (AP) — First mammograms. Now — in an apparent coincidence — Pap smears. New guidelines by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists say most women in their 20s can have a Pap smear every two years instead of... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

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Reid, as Legislative Tactician, Takes Ownership of Health Care Overhaul

NYT — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 06:55:28 +0100

The Senate majority leader’s deep personal involvement in assembling the overhaul of the health care system has led the measure to the brink of a historic Senate debate. (Source: NYT)

House OKs $210 Billion to Help Out Doctors

RWJF News Digest - Health Insurance Coverage — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

The Democrat-controlled House voted Thursday to add more than $200 billion to the deficit to prevent steep Medicare payment cuts to doctors, a move Republicans denounced as a political payoff. (Source: RWJF News Digest - Health Insurance Coverage)

Stocking Up on Meds Saves Money (CME/CE, with video)

MedPage Today Public Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

Buying prescription drugs in bulk reduces costs for both patients and their insurers, researchers say. (Source: MedPage Today Public Health)

Senate Health Care Bill Faces Crucial First Vote

NYT — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 04:33:06 +0100

Senator Harry Reid scheduled the first crucial procedural vote on the major health care legislation for Saturday, after what is expected to be two marathon days of debate. (Source: NYT)

Updated Guidance for the Use of CSL 2009 H1N1 Monovalent Vaccine

PandemicFlu.gov RSS Feed for News Releases — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 03:00:00 +0100

(Source: PandemicFlu.gov RSS Feed for News Releases)

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Cardiac Science Corp. Powerheart and CardioVive Automated External Defibrillators: Initial Communication

FDA MedWatch — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 01:00:00 +0100

Defective components may cause affected devices to not deliver electric shocks, and the device's self-test may not detect the defect in advance of use. (Source: FDA MedWatch)

Vicks Sinex Nasal Spray - Recall

FDA MedWatch — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:50:00 +0100

Product found containing the bacteria B. cepacia. (Source: FDA MedWatch)

12 arrested in sweep of in-home caregivers

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:36:12 +0100

An arrest sweep Thursday netted 12 people suspected of defrauding the In Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program in Sacramento County out of more than $300,000. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Study: Reflux may not be caused by stomach acid as previously thought

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Acid reflux, a common condition that has been highly profitable for the makers of antacid drugs, may not be caused by stomach acid at all, U.S. researchers said Nov. 19. Instead, gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD might be caused by immune system... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

The Hospital of the Future

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Katherine Thomas doesn't remember much about the 19 days she spent in the intensive care unit at Methodist Hospital in Houston. Recovering from emergency surgery to remove part of her colon, Thomas, 63, drifted in and out of consciousness. But one vision... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

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Trinity Medical Center asks judge to dismiss Irondale suit

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 23:07:13 +0100

Trinity Medical Center attorneys said the east Birmingham hospital never agreed to build a hospital in Irondale and asked a Jefferson County judge Thursday to dismiss the city's lawsuit seeking financial damages. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

NHI buys five assisted-living facilities

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:59:46 +0100

National Health Investors, a Murfreesboro-based health care real estate investment trust, announced Thursday the purchase of five assisted-living facilities from Kansas-based Bickford Senior Living. (NHI) (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

D. Brent Polk leaving Vanderbilt for job at USC

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:51:06 +0100

D. Brent Polk, who has a division named after him at Vanderbilt University’s School of Medicine, is leaving the university to become chairman of the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Southern California’s Keck School of Medicine. He also will become vice president of academic affairs at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles beginning April 1. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

House votes to scrap Medicare doctor pay formula

American Medical News - GOVERNMENT — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:45:02 +0100

The bill, which would base pay more closely on costs, now moves to the Senate. That chamber has already rejected a similar measure this year. (Source: American Medical News - GOVERNMENT)

Sunrise closes sale for $204 million

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:34:21 +0100

Sunrise Senior Living Inc. has completed its sale of 21 assisted-living communities to BLC Acquisitions Inc. for $204 million. (BKD) (SRZ) (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

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Precision Wire Components sold

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:27:29 +0100

An Ohio private equity firm has purchased Precision Wire Components for undisclosed terms. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

UC taps Alivisatos as Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory director

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:22:01 +0100

Paul Alivisatos, who’s been interim director of Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory this year, now has that job formally. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Benioff, Salesforce give $2M for Mission Bay hospital

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:12:46 +0100

Salesforce.com and its leader, Marc Benioff, have contributed $2 million to UCSF to help build a planned children’s hospital in San Francisco’s Mission Bay. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Regence: Swedish may end agreement

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:08:57 +0100

Regence BlueShield in Washington officials said they’ve received a letter from Swedish Medical Center, indicating that the Seattle hospital group will terminate its deal with Regence if a deal can’t be met. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Christus bans outdoor smoking at hospitals

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:06:24 +0100

Christus Santa Rosa Health System has become the first hospital system in San Antonio to implement a smoke-free policy at all of its campuses. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

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Former McKesson chairman convicted of fraud

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:03:48 +0100

Charles McCall, former chairman of San Francisco-based McKesson Corp., was convicted Thursday of fraud in a case that cost McKesson investors $8.6 billion. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Omeros loses $3.9M in Q3

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 21:31:34 +0100

Omeros Corp., a biopharmaceutical company that went public last month, reported a third-quarter loss of $3.9 million, or a loss of $1.34 per share. (OMER) (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

White named president, CEO of Chandler Regional Medical Center

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 21:20:48 +0100

Patty White has been named the new president and CEO of Chandler Regional Medical Center, a Catholic Healthcare West facility. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Oakland's Kaiser Permanente awards $256K in SoCal nursing scholarships

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 20:55:48 +0100

Kaiser Permanente said Thursday it’s funding 145 scholarships for nursing students in Southern California, as part of a broader effort to subsidize $5 million in RN education this year. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

FDA Takes Action Against Maryland Veal Calf Dealer

Food and Drug Administration — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 20:50:00 +0100

The U.S. Department of Justice, on behalf of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, has filed a complaint for permanent injunction against William F. Nickle of North East, Md., for allegedly selling veal calves for human consumption that contained illegal drug residues in edible tissues. (Source: Food and Drug Administration)

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House Passes Medicare Payment Fix

MedPage Today Public Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 20:31:51 +0100

WASHINGTON (MedPage Today) -- By a vote of 243 to 183, the House of Representatives has passed a bill to fix the flawed Medicare physician payment formula, but the measure faces a fight in the Senate. (Source: MedPage Today Public Health)

House Passes Medicare Payment Fix

MedPage Today Public Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 20:31:51 +0100

U.S. recovers $2.4B in fraud settlements

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:33:43 +0100

The U.S. recovered $2.4 billion in settlements and judgments in cases involving fraud against the government in the fiscal year ending Sept. 30, the Department of Justice said Thursday. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Health Care Foundation of Greater Kansas City approves $6.5M in grants

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:30:27 +0100

The Health Care Foundation of Greater Kansas City approved $6.5 million in Safety Net grants Thursday to 46 Kansas City-area agencies. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

WHO: Safety of Pandemic Vaccines

PandemicFlu.gov RSS Feed for News Releases — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:30:00 +0100

To date, WHO has received vaccination information from 16 of around 40 countries conducting national H1N1 pandemic vaccine campaigns. (Source: PandemicFlu.gov RSS Feed for News Releases)

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Dayton group argues for regular mammograms

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:12:07 +0100

The Dayton breast cancer task force disagrees with new recommendations from the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force that women should not receive regular mammograms until they reach their 50s. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

UW-Madison gets $9.5M Gates Foundation grant to study flu viruses

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:04:23 +0100

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation gave the University of Wisconsin-Madison a $9.5 million grant to study influenza threats to human health. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Brookdale Senior Living closes sale for 18 communities

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:46:31 +0100

Tennessee-based Brookdale Senior Living Inc. has closed its deal to buy 18 senior living communities from Sunrise Senior Living Inc. for $190 million. (BKD) (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Business Journal announces 40 Under 40 class

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:34:07 +0100

The St. Louis Business Journal has chosen its 2010 40 Under 40 award winners. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

OncoVista posts third-quarter loss despite revenue growth

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:28:31 +0100

OncoVista Innovative Therapies Inc. is continuing to build its revenues as the development stage company works toward becoming profitable. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

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NY revives retirement buyout program to state agencies

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:13:12 +0100

New York Gov. David Paterson's budget director has ordered state agencies to continue extending retirement buyouts to employees. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

DeBakey VA center opens two mental health units for veterans

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:11:01 +0100

The Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center has opened two new mental health units for returning combat troops and for women veterans. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Health Canada Advises Canadians About Problems with Insulin Product for Dogs and Cats

Government of Canada News - Health Canada — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:10:00 +0100

Health Canada is alerting veterinarians and pet owners about a possible manufacturing problem with Caninsulin, a drug used to treat diabetes in dogs and cats. (Source: Government of Canada News - Health Canada)

P&G recalls Vicks Sinex lots in U.S., U.K., Germany

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:07:37 +0100

Procter & Gamble Co. said Thursday it is voluntarily recalling three lots of Vicks Sinex nasal spray that were distributed in the United States, the United Kingdom and Germany. (PG) (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

DeGette prefers abortion language in Senate health-reform bill

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:51:37 +0100

U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette, D-Denver, said Thursday she was "pleased" with language concerning abortion in a new U.S. Senate health-care reform measure, in contrast to her opposition to anti-abortion provisions in a different health bill passed earlier by the House. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

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Stefanie Spielman, wife of Ohio State and NFL star, dies at 42 after long battle with cancer

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:43:00 +0100

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Stefanie Spielman, the wife of NFL and Ohio State star Chris Spielman who led a public fight against breast cancer, died Thursday after a lengthy battle with the disease. She was 42. Stefanie Spielman died at the family's home... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

Stefanie Spielman, wife of NFL star, dies at 42

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:34:00 +0100

Stefanie Spielman, the wife of NFL and Ohio State star Chris Spielman who led a public fight against breast cancer, died Thursday after a lengthy battle with the disease. She was 42. Stefanie Spielman died at the family's home in Upper Arlington,... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

Adults eligible for latest H1N1 clinics in Columbus, Franklin County

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:21:46 +0100

Columbus Public Health and the Franklin County Board of Health are widening the field in distributing the free H1N1 “swine flu” vaccine. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Epilepsy unit sales boost Cyberonics’ second quarter

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:12:23 +0100

Cyberonics Inc. has posted record sales for its fiscal second quarter. (CYBX) (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Senate Says Health Plan Will Cover Another 31 Million

NYT — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:08:23 +0100

Senator Harry Reid put forward his version of the health care overhaul, promising it would reduce the deficit while covering most of the uninsured. (Source: NYT)

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Mercer: Health benefits cost Phila.-area employers 6% more this year

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:00:02 +0100

Health-benefit costs for employers in the Philadelphia region increased 6.2 percent in 2009 to an average of $10,321 per employee, according to Mercer’s 2009 national survey of employer-sponsored health plans released Wednesday. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Md. stem cell panel sees record interest for research grants

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:41:24 +0100

The Maryland Stem Cell Research Commission received nearly 200 proposals for state-funded research grants, the highest number of applications to date in a year when there is less money available. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

QualChoice of Arkansas Supports Yearly Mammograms

Arkansas Business - Health Care — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:20:00 +0100

QualChoice of Arkansas, Inc., a Little Rock-based health management and benefits administrator, announced its intention to continue existing coverage of annual mammograms for women ages 40 and up. (Source: Arkansas Business - Health Care)

FDA Issues 22 Warning Letters to Web site Operators

Food and Drug Administration — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:54:00 +0100

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today completed a coordinated, weeklong, international effort, called the International Internet Week of Action (IIWA), intended to curb illegal actions involving medical products. (Source: Food and Drug Administration)

NIDA Stimulus Grant to Assess the Benefits of Counseling with HIV Screening

National Institutes of Health (NIH) News Releases — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:10:00 +0100

Public health experts encourage everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 to be HIV tested. Researchers at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and the San Francisco Department of Public Health will determine whether receiving a rapid HIV test and counseling offers healthier outcomes than rapid testing alone, with a $12.3 million grant awarded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The grant is being funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), part of the National Institutes of Health. (Source: National Institutes of Health (NIH) News Releases)

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Hall of Famers John Thompson, Kay Yow receive Lapchick Coaching Integrity Awards

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 13:41:00 +0100

NEW YORK (AP) — John Thompson and Kay Yow first shared a special experience 21 years ago as coaches of the U.S. men's and women's Olympic basketball teams. On Thursday, 10 months after Yow lost a long battle with breast cancer, she and Thompson... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

ImmunoGen licenses cancer-fighting technology to Amgen for $1 million upfront

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 13:41:00 +0100

WALTHAM, Mass. (AP) — ImmunoGen Inc. said Thursday that Amgen Inc. licensed rights to a second potential cancer-treatment from the company for $1 million upfront. Immunogen develops cancer treatments using its Tumor-Activated Prodrug, or TAP,... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

Report Suggests Diabetes Rates Increasing in New York City

RWJF News Digest - Public Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 13:39:54 +0100

A new report from the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene suggests that 9.1 percent of city residents have diabetes, outpacing the national average of 7.5 percent, WABC reports. (Source: RWJF News Digest - Public Health)

NIGMS 'Challenge' Areas Get Millions in Recovery Act Funds

National Institutes of Health (NIH) News Releases — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 13:39:00 +0100

The National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS), part of the National Institutes of Health, has invested $16.4 million of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Recovery Act) funds to jump-start a range of research projects that address critical gaps in the basic biomedical and behavioral sciences. (Source: National Institutes of Health (NIH) News Releases)

NIEHS Awards Recovery Act Funds to Focus More Research on Health and Safety of Nanomaterials

National Institutes of Health (NIH) News Releases — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 13:39:00 +0100

The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), part of the National Institutes of Health, is increasing its investment in understanding the potential health, safety and environmental issues related to tiny particles that are used in many everyday products such as sunscreens, cosmetics and electronics. (Source: National Institutes of Health (NIH) News Releases)

MedWorm Message: Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm Swine Flu RSS news feed - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.

Study: Alcohol 'Protects Men's Hearts'

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 13:06:28 +0100

A news study from Spanish researchers says drinking alcohol every day will cut the risk of heart disease in men by more than a third. According to the study, 15,500 men and 26,000 women between the ages of 29 and 69 were questioned regarding drinking... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

U.S. physicians lag on EMR use

American Medical News - GOVERNMENT — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:59:15 +0100

But American patients can access care more quickly than can those in many other countries, an international survey of doctors found. (Source: American Medical News - GOVERNMENT)

Florida hospital group shuts primary care centers

American Medical News - BUSINESS — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:59:15 +0100

The publicly run medical system said it must also cut employees and some specialty units to fill a budget deficit. (Source: American Medical News - BUSINESS)

Study: Alcohol "Protects Men's Hearts"

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:50:00 +0100

A news study from Spanish researchers says drinking alcohol every day will cut the risk of heart disease in men by more than a third. According to the study , 15,500 men and 26,000 women, between the ages of 29 and 69, were questioned regarding... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

FDA panel backs stronger benefit claims and safety profile for inhaler drug Spiriva

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:45:00 +0100

WASHINGTON (AP) — Federal health experts on Thursday brushed off lingering safety questions about a popular inhaler drug and suggested it carry bolder benefit claims. The Food and Drug Administration's panel of lung specialists voted 11-1 in... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

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Breast Cancer & Bacteria

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:47:06 +0100

For more information about the breast cancer & bacteria study, check out www.rush.edu/rumc. Doctors have a gut feeling about breast cancer beginning in the intestines. Bacteria there may be the key to breeding breast tumors. Nurse: "She is receiving... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

First US county-level obesity rates show Alabama, Mississippi communities at top, CDC says

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:02:00 +0100

ATLANTA (AP) — The first county-by-county survey of obesity reflects past studies that show the rate of obesity is highest in the Southeast and Appalachia. High rates of obesity and diabetes were reported in more than 80 percent of counties in... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

Breast Cancer Screening Policy Won’t Change, U.S. Officials Say

NYT — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 07:06:18 +0100

The White House emphasized that the new screening standards were not binding on either physicians or insurers. (Source: NYT)

Senate Health Plan Seeks to Add Coverage to 31 Million

NYT — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 07:00:32 +0100

Harry Reid, the majority leader, put forward his version of the health care overhaul on Wednesday, promising it would reduce the deficit while covering most of the uninsured. (Source: NYT)

Academic Researchers’ Conflicts of Interest Go Unreported

NYT — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 06:43:16 +0100

A report found that universities often do not disclose faculty members’ conflicts of interest in government-financed studies. (Source: NYT)

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Insurers Unlikely to Alter Policies in the Debate Over Mammograms

NYT — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 06:39:29 +0100

Medicare and private health insurers said they were unlikely to change coverage of breast cancer screenings after new guidelines recommended that women wait longer to have mammograms and have fewer of them. (Source: NYT)

Rising Prices of Drugs Lead to Call for Inquiry

NYT — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 06:29:02 +0100

Responding to news reports of unusually high wholesale price increases in brand-name prescription drugs, four House leaders and one senator asked for government reviews of the pricing practices. (Source: NYT)

Senate Health Plan Seeks to Add Coverage to 31 Million

RWJF News Digest - Health Insurance Coverage — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

Democratic leaders in the Senate on Wednesday unveiled their proposal for overhauling the health care system, outlining legislation that they said would cover most of the uninsured while reducing the federal budget deficit. (Source: RWJF News Digest - Health Insurance Coverage)

Report Suggests U.S. Obesity Rate to Rise to 43 Percent By 2018

RWJF News Digest - Public Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

A new study released by America's Health Rankings calls obesity the "fastest growing public health challenge the nation has ever faced," and suggests that, if current trends continue, 103 million Americans, or approximately 43 percent of the U.S. population, will be considered obese by 2018, the New York Times reports. (Source: RWJF News Digest - Public Health)

Senate Dems Unveil $849 Billion Healthcare Bill

MedPage Today Public Health — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 01:22:56 +0100

WASHINGTON (MedPage Today) -- After weeks of closed-door meetings, the Senate leaders released their $849 billion healthcare reform bill on Wednesday evening, paving the way for a procedural floor vote soon. (Source: MedPage Today Public Health)

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Brookdale Senior Living closes sale for 18 communities

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 01:13:23 +0100

Nashville-based Brookdale Senior Living Inc. announced Wednesday evening that it has closed its deal to buy 18 senior living communities from Sunrise Senior Living Inc. for $190 million. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Zynex Medical will move HQ to Lone Tree

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:30:08 +0100

Zynex Medical Inc., a Colorado maker of medical devices, will move its headquarters from Littleton to Lone Tree in early 2010 to accommodate growth. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

UPDATE: Sam's Story

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

In a special KTLA investigation we told you about one young California boy whose parents are giving him medical marijuana to treat his autism symptoms. The response to our report has been overwhelming... so we took this very personal, ground-breaking... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

Diet can induce restful sleep

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

About a third of our adult life is spent sleeping--or at least it should be. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, however, 70 million Americans suffer from chronic sleep problems. As fall sets in and the days become shorter,... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

Chill-Proof Your Routine for Winter

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

It's snowy. It's cold. It's windy. Who wants to exercise outside in the winter? But nasty weather doesn't mean you have to head to the gym and fight the hordes waiting for the next available treadmill. As one environmental physiologist once said, "Man in... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

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Orasure meets with federal regulators about HIV test

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Orasure Technologies, the Bethlehem maker of the OraQuick HIV test and other medical products, has announced a meeting with a government advisory committee regarding one of its proposed products. The company met Tuesday with the Blood Products Advisory... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

Careful food choices can lower your cholesterol

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

If your diet gave you high cholesterol, it can lower it, too. It's easy to eat your way to an alarmingly high cholesterol level. The reverse is true, too. Changing what you eat can lower your cholesterol and improve the armada of fats floating through... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

Diet can induce restful sleep

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

You can prevent type 2 diabetes

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Q: I'm 50 years old and a bit overweight. Both my parents have diabetes and my brother was recently diagnosed. My blood sugar tests have always been normal, but my doctor thinks I am at high risk. Am I destined to get diabetes? Can I prevent it? A: Yes,... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

High-sugar diets

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

We applaud the Chicago Tribune's recent coverage of the shockingly high sugar diets being offered at Chicago Public Schools. As health care professionals, we welcome every attempt to shine a spotlight on the growing and potentially... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

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NATION: CT scans cheaper, faster way to detect coronaries

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

CT scans cheaper, faster way to detect coronaries A CT scan -- a kind of super X-ray -- provides a faster, cheaper way to diagnose a heart attack when someone goes to the emergency room with chest pains, a new study suggests. In the study, half of 749... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

Chill-Proofing Your Exercise Routine for Winter

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Washington state says ‘really, no smoking!’

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 23:14:19 +0100

The Washington State Department of Health is taking one of the toughest stands possible against smoking at its four-building Tumwater campus: Absolutely no tobacco products are allowed after May 2010. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Medspira gets license to sell Mayo Clinic products

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:36:08 +0100

Medspira announced Wednesday it has entered into an agreement with Mayo Clinic to market and manufacture several products developed by the Rochester-based medical clinic. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Enforcement Report for November 18, 2009

Food and Drug Administration--Enforcement Report — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:36:00 +0100

(Source: Food and Drug Administration--Enforcement Report)

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FPIC hit with $1.2 million assessment

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:22:30 +0100

Jacksonville-based FPIC Insurance Group will take a $1.2 million hit to its fourth-quarter earnings as a result of a Florida Insurance Guaranty Fund assessment, the medical professional liability insurance company said Wednesday. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Mercer: Health benefits costs slow in '09

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:15:08 +0100

So far, 2009 has yielded the lowest annual increase in health benefit costs in a decade, according to a survey conducted by Mercer. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Amendment clarifies sharing of information between ambulance attendants and police

Alberta.ca from- Health and Wellness — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:52:00 +0100

Maintaining the ability of ambulance attendants to share their eye witness information with police is the focus of Bill 62, the Emergency Health Services Amendment Act which was introduced in the legislature on November 18. (Source: Alberta.ca from- Health and Wellness)

State budget gap projected to top $20 billion

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:48:22 +0100

California is facing a $20.7 billion deficit in the General Fund budget over the next 18 months, the Legislative Analyst’s Office announced Wednesday. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Missouri ranks 38th in health survey

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:28:17 +0100

The 20th edition of a national health report finds that Missourians have put on a few pounds. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

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Children and their families next to receive H1N1 vaccine

Alberta.ca from- Health and Wellness — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:01:00 +0100

Starting Friday, November 20, Alberta’s H1N1 immunization program will expand to include all children under 18 years of age as of November 1, as well as their immediate family members and caregivers living in the same household. The opportunity to include other Albertans will depend on an assessment of demand for the vaccine over the weekend. Immunization for seniors expands tomorrow to include those 65 years of age and older as of November 1, as well as their spouse or partner of any age. (Source: Alberta.ca from- Health and Wellness)

Mercer: Employers see lowest health cost increase in decade

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:40:49 +0100

Employers saw the costs to provide health care coverage to employees rise 5.5 percent in 2009, the lowest annual increase in a decade, according to the National Survey of Employer-Sponsored Health Plans, conducted annually by the Mercer consulting firm. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Poniard drug OK in mid-stage cancer study

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:39:22 +0100

Poniard Pharmaceuticals Inc., which stumbled with its cancer drug picoplatin in a Phase III trial, hit the main goal of a mid-stage metastatic colorectal cancer study using the chemotherapy agent, the company said Wednesday. (PARD) (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

FDA Takes Action Against Dairy Farm and Owner

Food and Drug Administration — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:36:00 +0100

On Nov. 16, 2009, Judge Marvin J. Garbis of the United States District Court for the District of Maryland entered a Consent Decree of Permanent Injunction (Decree) against Old Carolina Farm and its owner, Francis Roderick, of Ijamsville, Md. The Decree prohibits the defendants from selling animals for slaughter for human consumption until they have implemented record keeping systems that will identify and track animals that have been treated with drugs. (Source: Food and Drug Administration)

UPDATE: Clinton, Marking Library's 5th, Urges Health Care Reform

Arkansas Business - Health Care — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:11:34 +0100

Former president urges Americans to "do what the times demand." (Source: Arkansas Business - Health Care)

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Dr. Paul Zamecnik dies at 96; scientist made two major discoveries

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:11:00 +0100

Most scientists are fortunate if they can make one major discovery in their lifetime. Dr. Paul Zamecnik made two, each of which should have won him a Nobel Prize. Working with Dr. Mahlon Hoagland, he discovered transfer RNA, a crucial molecule in the... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

Salix Pharmaceuticals to offer 5.5 million shares in a public offering

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:02:26 +0100

Salix Pharmaceuticals (Nasdaq: SLXP) said Wednesday it has priced a public offering of 5.5 million shares of the company’s stock. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Assurant Health inks exclusive pact with USAA

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:02:11 +0100

Assurant Health will become the exclusive provider of individual medical insurance to the more than 7.3 million members of USAA, under a marketing alliance announced Wednesday. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Senate Panel Okays Growing FDA Power in Food Safety

MedPage Today Public Health — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:00:37 +0100

A Senate committee approved legislation today that will expand the FDA's authority in regulating food safety. (Source: MedPage Today Public Health)