MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'gifts'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 01:48:57 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5182229&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F08%2Fcalculated-risk.html They clamber up the apple tree, my four and six year olds, all the way to the top where the ripe apples drip like ruby gems from the bowed branches. I catch glimpses of faces through foliage and try to avoid sounding too nervous as I ask them to come down a bit lower in the tree. Rosy is the monkey, clinging and swinging, branch to branch and apples rain down in her wake.Finally the feed bucket is full - half green and half ripe apples for a corral full of horses eager for a bite. The kids get braver, holding hands flat to offer apples to the hungry mouths, only to be grossed out by horse spit on their fingers. And she, the quiet beauty I held moments after birth, 16 now and silent. She knows the sorrow in my soul but instead of talking about it, we dance through the dreamy moments of peac... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5182229 Thu, 01 Sep 2011 00:18:00 +0100 5182229 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5051110&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F07%2Fgift-delivered.html My aunt Rosalie had a pink conch shell from Mexico that I always picked up first thing upon arrival, listening to the distant sounds of the sea I had never seen. At ten, I finally saw the ocean for the first time, at Haystack Rock on the Oregon coast. It was love at first sight. There I found sand dollars, starfish, and the bracken of broken shells of all sorts, bewitched by their pinks, oranges, and textures. At that beach I prayed to find a conch shell.The only problem is, conch are local as far north as some parts of southern Florida, but are mostly found in the Caribbean, the Bahamas, Tobago, and Trinidad being the top 3 places where you can still eat conch and find their shells in shallow ocean water. Every time I visited the ocean - any ocean - I prayed to find a conch shell. I ... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5051110 Wed, 20 Jul 2011 23:13:00 +0100 5051110 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4953292&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F06%2Fday-set-aside-for-thankfulness.html For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin. For every high priest taken from among men is appointed on behalf of men in things pertaining to God, in order to offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins; he can deal gently with the ignorant and misguided, since he himself also is beset with weakness; and because of it he is obligated to offer sacrifices for sins, as for the people, so also for himself. And no one takes the honor to himself, but receives it when he is called by God, even as Aaron was. (Hebrews 4:15, 5:1-4)I am thankful to call Christ my High Priest. Thankful that I am free, under His grace, to attend church wherever I feel called. I am thankful to have a new pastor who deals g... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4953292 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 15:40:00 +0100 4953292 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4902647&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F06%2Fmy-pregnant-cat-my-object-lesson.html Lessons from a cat. Who knew? I know they're good for cuddling, they love to drink my half and half up at an unreasonable rate, and their claws hurt. We have two outdoor cats: Tom Cat (gender obvious, thanks to the 4 and 3 year olds who named him after Tom Kitten in the Beatrix Potter books); and Tiggy, a very small, tame cat who is currently carrying a LOT of kicking kittens in her belly.What am I learning from my pregnant cat, you ask?First, she is teaching me about seasons. In cat language, I would change Ecclesiastes 3 to "a time to bounce and a time lie around". This pregnant cat, usually almost kitten-like in her bouncy demeanor, has laid in the same spot, changing position frequently for the last week. She literally only gets up to eat, even that she does with a grunt and a large ph... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4902647 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 17:32:00 +0100 4902647 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4883849&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F05%2Fthings-i-never-noticed_30.html Our "burning bush" - she is first to open her leaves to the sun, and the sun echoes back in astounding beauty.Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,And sorry I could not travel bothAnd be one traveler, long I stoodAnd looked down one as far as I couldTo where it bent in the undergrowth;Then took the other, as just as fair,And having perhaps the better claim,Because it was grassy and wanted wear;Though as for that the passing thereHad worn them really about the same,And both that morning equally layIn leaves no step had trodden black.Oh, I kept the first for another day!Yet knowing how way leads on to way,I doubted if I should ever come back.I shall be telling this with a sighSomewhere ages and ages hence:Two roads diverged in a wood, and I--I took the one less traveled by,And that has made a... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4883849 Mon, 30 May 2011 09:36:00 +0100 4883849 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4803449&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F05%2Foverflowing-grace.html I just found a plank in my eye. (I'm sure it won't be the last.) At this moment in my journey with both my faith and severe depression, I have more trust in the clearly definable, like a palette of acrylics. Colors, amounts, which way the peaks pointed...I am having a hard time trusting the indefinable, the King of ages, immortal, invisible, the only God (I Tim. 1:17).Don't let panic get you down,How could we forget God's amazing loveHear my tearsthis is whereyou'll shake the nightmares free~Jon Foreman~I've lived a long time believing that there would be some account or consequence for how well you lived Christ - bad decisions, bad consequences; good decisions, good consequences. The problem is that Jesus turned that whole paradigm upside down with His saving blood. In Romans 2, Paul writ... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4803449 Mon, 09 May 2011 13:43:00 +0100 4803449 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4747838&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F04%2Fcross-amidst-crisis.html Making choices about memory, being mindful about your thoughts. This is a new practice for me, and I wear it like a new outfit, fidgety and not sure how it looks on me. I watched the Passion of the Christ on Holy Saturday, and I was reminded, as Satan floated in and out Jesus' view, always with a half-smile on the face and the temptation to the easy route out, that in this way, also, I must follow my King. See Satan. But let Satan have no place in my thoughts. Flashbacks come, like Satan, flitting through the background of real life. But that's what they are, just flashbacks, just bad memories. The reality is that I am hidden in Christ, and I must see Satan flitting with His eyes, the eyes that looked calmly yet with dread toward His own day of suffering.I spend a week with friends and see... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4747838 Mon, 25 Apr 2011 09:59:00 +0100 4747838 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4684435&cid=t_99417_109_f&fid=34761&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedblitz.com%2F%7E%2F25459290%2F0%2Fneuromarketing%7EGive-Big-Get-Bigger.htm Reciprocity is a common enough theme here at Neuromarketing. The concept of reciprocity suggests that giving someone something, or doing a favor for someone, establishes a subtle return obligation. An interesting study by German researcher Armin Falk showed that a bigger “gift” amplifies the reciprocity effect. Falk’s study involved mailing 10,000 requests for charitable donations, [...] CommentsReciprocity is a great influencer. However, I do not think ... by NawazNaomi and Stacey, I tend to react the same way. When I see ... by Roger DooleyPlus 3 more...Related StoriesGetting High Boosts CooperationFacial EMG: Muscles Don’t Lie?What Don Corleone Could Learn from Guy Kawasaki (Source: Neuromarketing) Neuromarketing blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4684435 Tue, 05 Apr 2011 12:41:20 +0100 4684435 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4670311&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F04%2Funexpected-gifts.html Last April, I could barely recognize my feet. Swollen beyond swollen, my toes swallowed up. You could almost squeeze water out of them, it seemed, if you tried hard enough, like Micky Mouse trying to squeeze water from his cheese.A year later and a pacemaker working overtime to keep my heart beating properly, and there they are again, the feet I didn't know I had anymore. The feet I had when I was 14, before my heart started those funky beats and my blood pressure dropped. Although the rest of me has (regrettably) stayed the same size, what a relief to find my ankles and toes again!A little like vine-ripened tomatoes in Mama's perfectly circular green bowl on the faded white table in the end of winter. A blessing in the dry season, an oasis in the desert of health, a discovery of wonder in... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4670311 Fri, 01 Apr 2011 21:37:00 +0100 4670311 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4642930&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F03%2Ffor-this-i-praise-you-god.html Simply counting today, excerpted from #240-281 in my gratitude journal:241. Being a "tax collector" doesn't change how God sees me or treats me242. He would eat with me243. He seeks the single lost sheep from the 100 as the loving Shepherd245. Thunder snow248. Love > fear253. Sweet times with teens254. Arthritis is gone255. I am NEVER voiceless259. Pretty shirt and jeans263. Amaryllis blooming scarlet red from beyond the grave of my Grandma gone last summer268. Relief270. Rosy's 6 year old vibratto275. A husband who humbles himself to save people278. Dissertation proposal PASSING!!!! He whispers from behind, "This is the way, walk in it." (Isaiah 30:21)280. Telling the truth to my kids (Source: Turquoise Gates) Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4642930 Mon, 28 Mar 2011 15:49:00 +0100 4642930 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4592645&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F03%2Ftrain-date-with-cousins.html ("diddle diddle dumpling, my son John,one shoe off, and one shoe on...")Excerpted from my gratitude journal this busy Monday morning, #200-239:#207 Mohawks are back - reminding me of brothers#210 Lies being dismantled#211 Katy reading devotions with my parents#213 Frost turning trees into diamonds#216 Baby brothers#220 More questions than answers means life is never boring#221 The blackness of an almost frozen creek#224 Fear of death makes every moment ALIVE sweeter#230 Dissertation proposal PASSING!#231 Reading the Gospels for Lent#237 The largeness of my suffering reveals the awesome provision of a powerful God (Source: Turquoise Gates) Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4592645 Mon, 14 Mar 2011 15:14:00 +0100 4592645 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4560525&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F03%2Fawakening-to-love.html Long ago, something happened to me that I haven't talked about much since. I suffered child sexual abuse, like 3 out of every 5 American women, and 2 of every 5 men. Ill equipped at seven to understand the depth of the injury to my heart, I was a quick forgiver and a stuffer. I just took a stick and rammed all that ugliness, fear, pain, confusion, and desolation deep down, hiding it down in the dark depths of my soul. For a long time, no one broke through that shell. Again in college, someone took the knife of their own evil and pierced me through again. I was kidnapped and raped and - perhaps worse - participated in the prosecution of these men, undergoing a grueling 19 hour interrogation on the stand, forced to repeat details of the events in front of my parents and strangers. I was... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4560525 Mon, 07 Mar 2011 19:46:00 +0100 4560525 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4532511&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F02%2Fflames-in-city.html The waning sun gets caught in the framework of skyscrapersa sun dog shoots straight up from the basilicabuildings are lit aflame by the sunsetand we dress up and go out for dinner, just the two of us,and love burns fresh and new with promise of even better years to come..........Gratitude journal, numbers 116-187:123. God's vigilant pursuit127. Grace = "one-way love"130. Driving with the window down139. A break coming soon144. Tapping trees146. "if a man lives many years, let him rejoice in them all; but let him remember that the days of darkness will be many." Ecclesiastes 11:8148. Holding Uriah Fugate150. Garden planning in a blizzard157. Sweet southern drawl on the telephone159. Best friends to whom distance matters not a whit162. Laughing hysterically because Caleb doesn't understand s... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4532511 Mon, 28 Feb 2011 16:33:00 +0100 4532511 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4507547&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F02%2Fpowder-day.html The "powder days" of my memory include mountains.Or at least really big hills.Now it's four kids, two snowboards, and a slight incline.Caleb goes flying in the first 10 feet, his weight on his 3rd birthdaynot nearly enough to keep him atop a snowboard in 18" of fresh snow.The older kids are starting to get it.Rosy, in particular, has an excellent sense of balance.45 feet downhill, she's still riding, even sans bindings.Amy gets frustrated, but she's bound and determined.Really, they could all care less, as long as I'm out there with them.Almost 32. Right femur aching. Can't resist the fresh fallen snow, anyway.Here's to "powder days" of all kinds...and the joy of growing older, and life changing...and joy remaining! (Source: Turquoise Gates) Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4507547 Tue, 22 Feb 2011 03:35:00 +0100 4507547 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4501766&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F02%2Fwhat-i-learned-at-my-old-church-lessons.html We left our church in October and set out on a journey to find a church we felt called to, Aaron and I. It wasn't easy to leave our church, especially our dear friends who were our first and deepest relationships in the Eau Claire area when we moved back in 2004. Even before we were married, I started traveling on short term medical missions led by the senior pastor, and have memories of some of the most intense periods of spiritual growth in my early adulthood during those trips to El Salvador and Honduras.It has been hard to know what to say or how to say it, here to friends and strangers, and to those in the community who've asked questions about what caused us to leave. I am finally at a point where I can say it "out loud" - "yes, we left our church. We're at a different church now". M... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4501766 Sun, 20 Feb 2011 10:45:00 +0100 4501766 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4478025&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F02%2Freal-life-fairy-tale-endings.html ...make your ear attentive to wisdomand incline your heart to understanding;yes, if you call out for insightand raise your voice for understanding,if you seek it like silverand search for it as for hidden treasures,then you will understand the fear of the Lordand find the knowledge of God.~Proverbs 2:2-5~I remember the halcyon days of honeymoon, when joy was like the warm September sun, everywhere, and you didn't have to go hunting for it.Through child-rearing, and cancer, and brain infections, and long periods of separation, you have to look harder to find the shared joy.But it is still there, in the moments when you sneak up on your spouse and find him loving on one of the kids, unbidden. Teaching them to find joy in the simple things.It's there when you catch him caring deeply for the w... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4478025 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 14:12:00 +0100 4478025 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4470519&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F02%2Fdifferent-kinds-of-music.html Wordsthey are my fingers on a face~Frame the Clouds, Christa Wells~My father plays his music on guitar.My mother dances her, sings her, shakes it out with her tambourine.My baby brother sings in a husky tenor unabashed.And my Father in heaven?Sometimes His music is in the golden yellow - my favorite color -of a muted photo.Today it was a symphony of suffering.Amy has been having seizures, because she has a fever and head cold.I slipped and fell and may have a hairline fracture on my femur - the big bone in my thigh -(whatever it is, I can't bear weight on it and it hurts like, well, you know...)Off to bed.Hoping for a sweeter serenade tomorrow. (Source: Turquoise Gates) Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4470519 Sat, 12 Feb 2011 04:58:00 +0100 4470519 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4460148&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F02%2Fthing-of-beauty-is-joy-forever.html We talk on the phone for hours, usually, and this time just 15 minutes. But this dear, far-away friend passed on the name of a little book - 31 Days of Praise - that is reshaping my winter. It does for your soul what the wheel blocks in the car wash do for your car: locks you into place, a certain trajectory, so that you can be scrubbed clean again. Praise is the scrub brush.For rashy pink cheeks in afternoon sun, for a boy still sleeping after I sneak my arm out from under his blond head, I praise you.For cousin's hands aching for his own baby, filled for the moment with a new nephew. For the soft texture of a baby's sweater and the glow of Christmas trees still lit in late January, I praise you.For yellow frosting and the small motor skills to frost cookies, I praise you.For buns in litt... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4460148 Thu, 10 Feb 2011 04:38:00 +0100 4460148 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4445985&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F02%2Falternative-to-affectation-and.html My friend calls it a fingernail moon, the last lingering slip of crescent as we fade into the new moon. It sets somber white against the cobalt twilight in midwinter. Edging into the long cold night one beautiful moment at a time.The white bleeds blurred brightness onto film as the stars peek through the velvet and the yellow sunlight whispers secrets to the hilltops picketed with naked trees. Ragged horizon like the frayed yarn of a favorite scarf, worn by the harshness of winter and the fingering blaze of the sun as she winks goodbye to our side of the world each afternoon and begins her ascent into the heavens of someone else's morning.I look at the world of color, and it's a warm moon and twilight is a blanket I can wrap my shoulders in, a tangible testimony of Creator God. It is close... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4445985 Mon, 07 Feb 2011 10:20:00 +0100 4445985 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4419379&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F01%2Ftrading-in-my-cardboard-crown.html We listen to Grace Potter for a whole month straight, and I dream of cutting the foot pedals off one of my organs and building a revolving amp like the Leslie she had custom-made. (One of the major perks of being a famous musician has got to be the custom-made instruments. What a dream come true!)We fire up the organ once a day and Caleb is always first in line. I'm not sure if it's the many buttons and slides he can manipulate to his little engineering brain's content, or the thunder of the bass pipes rattling the wall in front of him. Either way, I guarantee this kid is going to have a love of organs for the rest of his life.I look down at the walnut furl of the organ leg descending out of the cabinet, and I think about how Amy told me once that photography is the gift of seeing beauty i... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4419379 Mon, 31 Jan 2011 17:54:00 +0100 4419379 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4389317&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F01%2Flife-in-color.html You don’t have to ask me whyBecause I know you understandAll the treasures of my lifeAre right here in my handSuspended in a moment No more breath to catchIf you hold on to your endMaybe we can make this lastThis is the greatest time of dayWhen all the clocks are spinning backwardsAnd all the ropes that bind begin to frayAnd all the black and white turns into colorsI don’t want to build a wallOr draw a line across the sandBecause there’s room for one and allAnd this land is our landOh I hope this can go on and on and onBefore the skipping stone hits the surface of the pondOh I know that life is never very longOne second, then one minute, and then its goneYou want to sink into the colors on the wallBut all the while you are the brightest of them allThis is the greatest time of da... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4389317 Mon, 24 Jan 2011 06:03:00 +0100 4389317 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4382928&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F01%2Fwhat-am-i-going-to-call-this-disaster.html I am drinking out of my husband's cup this morning because I miss him. Al's Breakfast. I miss that, too.If I'd never known the joy of him, I wouldn't miss him. If it weren't for the clouds, would I ever notice the sun?I nearly dropped my book last night when I read these words, the words that echo straight from my soul and describe my paralysis as God's saint and matron of my household:I think I can brave this Beauty? Not an empty, tinny beauty but a Fierce Beauty, Flaming Fire who burns through the thick masks and leaves the soul disrobed. I am naked and ashamed. I know how monstrously inhumane I can be. Raging at children for minor wrongdoings while I'm the one defiling the moment with sinful anger. Hoarding possessions while others die of starvation. Entertaining the mind with trivial p... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4382928 Fri, 21 Jan 2011 19:12:00 +0100 4382928 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4265856&cid=t_99417_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F12%2F17%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-december-17-2010%2F As I’m writing this, I’m in shock. I was busy checking things off of my things to do list when appointments and planning for the upcoming holidays completely threw me off my schedule. That’s why this is late. Yikes! I let the ball drop. And I’ve been doing that a lot lately. It is a great lesson for me. Recently, an illness has made it difficult for me to keep up. While I’m usually on top of things, once an A student, someone who despises procrastination and has a strong passion for getting everything done, I realized that I just can’t do it all anymore. But maybe that’s a good thing. It’s teaching me about the importance of making mistakes, being imperfect and accepting where I am now instead of comparing where I was in the past. I might not... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4265856 Fri, 17 Dec 2010 23:10:29 +0100 4265856 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4253199&cid=t_99417_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F12%2F13%2Fexchanging-gifts-with-your-therapist%2F It’s that time of the year again — the time where gift-giving is a part of many people’s holiday rituals. While we don’t think twice about buying little gifts for close friends and family, sometimes it gives us pause to consider giving a gift to our therapist. Here’s a relationship with a professional that we see once a week, and yet it is a professional relationship (even if it doesn’t always feel that way). What should you do? Should you exchange a little gift with your therapist? Of course, before you do anything, you and your therapist should talk about exchanging gifts (especially if you don’t know your therapist’s policy). Some therapists are okay with it — as long as the gifts are small — while others have a strict, &#8220... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4253199 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 14:50:26 +0100 4253199 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4251109&cid=t_99417_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fchristmas-gifts-for-my-medical-colleagues%2F2010.12.11 This is my column in December’s Emergency Medicine News: I like to think back on favorite Christmas gifts I have received down the years. I don’t think I can do any better than the children of mine who were born around Christmas. Three of the four came within one month of Christmas day. One came on December 23rd. What wonderful presents! Going farther back, I recall sitting by the Christmas tree at my childhood home, or the homes of my grandparents. I found toy soldiers, toy horses, Matchbox cars, pocket knives and many other little-boy wonders. I remember the beautiful wooden stock and golden trigger of my first shotgun, and how it pulled me irresistably into a sense of impending manhood to know that my father and mother trusted me enough to give such a gift. I have been thrilled to ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4251109 Sat, 11 Dec 2010 16:00:03 +0100 4251109 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4241728&cid=t_99417_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FgjJf5eznflY%2F It may feel like the sands of time are fast running through your fingers, but there is still time to buy emergency Christmas gifts for your favourite emergency physician. Here is the official list of UCEM-approved 'Christmas Gifts for the Emergency Department'. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4241728 Wed, 08 Dec 2010 09:20:14 +0100 4241728 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4233372&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F12%2Fvery-merry.html Did you ever hear of something so glorious as a parade in winter? At night?Streets lit...Boys throwing flames...Hands stretched out for candy...And then the very next day you get to go cut down your Christmas tree in the forest?Oh, the incomparable joy!(Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Mt 11:28)Linked to Ann's gratitude campaign: (Source: Turquoise Gates) Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4233372 Mon, 06 Dec 2010 06:00:00 +0100 4233372 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4229195&cid=t_99417_109_f&fid=38953&url=http%3A%2F%2Frileyjennifer.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F12%2Fgifts-for-someone-who-is-depressed.html Another re-post from last year.This could be for the holidays or a special occasion or just because. The best gift is your support, but presents are nice too. The following list is compiled from ideas I found on the interweb and my own ideas. There are of course many wonderful gifts you could give to any person, but I tried to make this more specific for depressed people by choosing gifts that are not only presents, but will enhance their life in a healthy and positive way. * Ask them to do something healthy for you -bake a cake, make a cd, play a song if they play an instrument. Some people might be more willing to engage in activity if they’re not concerned about the cost/benefit to themselves. Eventually, an individual has to choose to things by and for themselves, but a little help g... Psych Scamp blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4229195 Sat, 04 Dec 2010 04:06:00 +0100 4229195 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4225228&cid=t_99417_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FQMVmGdgbY8A%2F By David Boaz I decided last year to give a young colleague a post-graduate course in political science and economics — P. J. O’Rourke’s books Parliament of Whores and Eat the Rich. So I went to my local Barnes & Noble to search for them. Not in Current Affairs. Not in Economics. No separate section called Politics. I decided to try Borders. But first — to avoid yet more driving around — I went online to see if my local Borders stores had them in stock. Sure enough, they did, in a couple of stores just blocks from the Cato Institute. Checking to see where in the store I would find them, I discovered that they would both be shelved under “Humor–Humorous Writing.” Oh, right, I thought, they’re not books on economics or current affairs, they’re humor. Yes, P.J. is o... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4225228 Thu, 02 Dec 2010 13:56:54 +0100 4225228 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4214214&cid=t_99417_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FHgyvzcYwUGw%2F Dear Victor: Christmas is coming, which for me means major stress about a particular family-related issue. I have a huge immediate family, and everyone has their own ideas about how we should handle Christmas gift-giving. These differences cause major arguments, underlying resentments, and even serious rifts. Some family members think that everyone should buy a gift for everyone else (despite the fact that there are dozens of us, and as many different budgets). Others think they should only have to buy Christmas presents for those family members to whom they’re really close. Still others are adamant that each gift be incredibly special and personalized, even if you only see the recipient once a year. (No iPods or coffee grinders allowed.) And, get this: Some of my adult family member... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4214214 Mon, 29 Nov 2010 18:40:21 +0100 4214214 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4190444&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F11%2Fgiving-full-vent.html I never had a temper until I had children. At least, so I thought.Katrina at 9 monthsBesides occasionally getting frustrated in heavy traffic and bemoaning my singleness to a God who seemed callous to my fate, I rarely experienced anger. I thought of myself as a "peacemaker", and "even tempered" would have been part of my self-description.Then - despite proclamations from multiple physicians regarding my eternal infertility - God gave me four children in four years. And before I was even half done bearing them, I found out I had a temper.A bad one.Yelling was part of my daily coping. Doors were slammed and laundry flung here and there, and sometimes I even dressed my kids roughly instead of tenderly. I remember pulling my fingers deep into fists so tight my chewed-short nails left imp... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4190444 Mon, 22 Nov 2010 13:49:00 +0100 4190444 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4139290&cid=t_99417_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F11%2F05%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-november-5-2010%2F Only a few days ago, it felt like summer and now the holidays are fast approaching. As the warm days sheds its last ray of summer sunlight, I can’t help but reflect on the past. It seems as though somewhere between childhood and today, there was a time when life seemed a lot simpler, and so much more magical. Instead of fear, worry and disappointment, there was excitement, joy and hope. And even though being an adult often mean less presents and more shopping during the holidays, I still believe in the possibilities of the end of an old year and what the beginning of a new one brings. Maybe it’s all in our attitude. If we can learn how to bring gifts to ourselves and those we love through appreciation and recognition for the things done well, then maybe we can forgo the need fo... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4139290 Fri, 05 Nov 2010 12:27:10 +0100 4139290 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4098313&cid=t_99417_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Faspiewebnet%2F%7E3%2FEiNvOfikW_Y%2F As the holiday season is coming around this year people have started making gift lists for the important people in their lives.  People on the Autism Spectrum are really not that difficult to shop for compared to a normal person – but here are some suggestions to make their Christmas special.  Their Special Interest People [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4098313 Thu, 21 Oct 2010 03:49:44 +0100 4098313 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4077535&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F10%2Fletting-go-and-letting-god.html We weren’t originally designed to keep everything in play all the time. Something got broken in us when we left the Garden of Eden. We stopped trusting that God was good and that we were the apple of His eye. We have this suspicious feeling about letting go and letting God take us through the natural course of things.  ~ from (in)Courage, posted by Bonnie GraySometimes God fills your hands so full, you are forced to realize you cannot juggle everything yourself.  Grief fills up your heart until it finally overflows and you cry embarrassing tears in front of people you would never cry with normally (like, say, your doctor).  And then the cup you thought was full of tears is miraculously overflowing with joy, and the laughter leaps out of you even though your sister-in-law i... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4077535 Mon, 18 Oct 2010 16:37:00 +0100 4077535 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4055922&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F10%2Falways-goodor-never-good.html We know from all his writings that Paul trusted not only that God is sovereign, but also that his character is faithful and good (1 Thessalonians 5:24). It's critical for Christians to believe this, too. Why? Because without these additional attributes, we could view an absolutely sovereign God as a potential big bully. If I can't trust that God is always good and faithful, then God goes on trial with each particular circumstance of my life. I become the doubter who's like the waves of the sea, always being tossed about (James 1:6).Of course, it's easy to say I'm confident that God's faithful when I've escaped a negative situation, but is he still faithful when the friend I've lifted up in prayer for more than 30 years has never returned to faith in Jesus? Or when I was diagnosed with brea... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4055922 Mon, 11 Oct 2010 15:00:00 +0100 4055922 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3933066&cid=t_99417_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Flong-stemmed-rainbow-roses-kitschy-or-cool%2F You gotta love these trippy rainbow roses (or do you?) — even if you’re a snob (like us) who thinks that dyed flowers are beyond tacky. They’re made by inserting colored dyes into different parts of the stem, which results in multicolored petals. These buds were developed in Holland (so shouldn’t they be tulips?), and will cost you (or your wealthy suitor) $55 to $325. We can’t stop staring. Because they’re real. Can you dig these psychedelic flowers – or do you prefer roses that don’t remind you of ’shrooming in college? photo via The Frisky via The Frisky Post from: BlissTree Long-Stemmed Rainbow Roses: Kitschy or Cool? (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3933066 Fri, 03 Sep 2010 19:29:21 +0100 3933066 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3911845&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F08%2Fcollection-on-work.html Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the grave, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.  (Ecclesiastes 9:10)...in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given us.Romans 12God has combined the members of the church and has given greater honor to the parts that lacked it.I Corinthians 12The man who plants and the man who waters have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor.I Corinthians 3...walk in the light, as he is in the light...have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.I John 1Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3911845 Fri, 27 Aug 2010 12:23:00 +0100 3911845 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3862165&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F08%2Fbroken-china-is-still-china.html "In the darkness of despair and the prison of pain, we often say things that we later regret, but God understands all about it and lovingly turns a deaf ear to our words but a tender eye to our wounds." ~ Pause for Power, Warren W. WiersbeMy mother brought me a china plate for my collection of mismatched china (we eat off beauty every day) and I promptly broke it.  The very next day.  My first reaction, unfortunately, is still to throw a tantrum.  I remember her warning me, as a teenager, that I if I chose that agitated state of heart in the quiet of my room and privacy of my brain, it would settle in and become a habit that was nearly impossible to break.  And, I regret to say, I went on heedlessly...nay, obstinately...and let it settle in.  Now I struggle with th... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3862165 Thu, 12 Aug 2010 16:55:00 +0100 3862165 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3816663&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F08%2Fshape-of-my-eye-changed-because-of.html The shape of my eye changed because of a physical hardship: I hit a toilet with my head, with my eyes open, and my eyeball got smashed.  I don't know yet if the effects are permanent, but I do know one thing: it has changed my focus.  Literally.  I focus my camera just as I always have, but because the "perspective" in my eye itself has changed, what I see looks...different.  There is more blur.  Almost like I am less attached to the subject.  Yet more art?I've admired a few photographers for years: the one I love most is Amy Glover, first a professional alliance, then friend, then the woman who discipled me, and now fellow artist.  The allegory between art and soul is so complete, it's almost too good to be true.  Just as I've followed the "perspect... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3816663 Tue, 03 Aug 2010 19:51:00 +0100 3816663 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3798763&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F07%2Fpretty-in-pink.html As far as I know, there haven't been twins in our family for a very long time.  My brother and sister-in-law have struggled with infertility, and were blessed with news of twins quite out of the blue.  Right about the time they had made an appointment, after much trepidation, with a fertility specialist.  We had a wonderful day Saturday showering Jamie with gifts and well wishes as she enters the final, most difficult part of her pregnancy.My mom, the consummate hostess, put together a stunning Heritage Menu that reflected all the ancestral ties these two little baby girls will share: French, German, English, Swedish, Danish, Norwegian, Native American, Irish.  The most delicious had to be the homemade Devonshire cream, with it's nutty aroma and cool creaminess.  M... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3798763 Wed, 28 Jul 2010 11:24:00 +0100 3798763 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3762898&cid=t_99417_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Fjerry-seinfeld-on-music-in-the-shower%2F Somebody just gave me a shower radio. Thanks a lot. Do you really want music in the shower? I guess there’s no better place to dance than a slick surface next to a glass door. – Jerry Seinfeld Post from: BlissTree Jerry Seinfeld on Music In the Shower (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3762898 Sat, 17 Jul 2010 14:00:24 +0100 3762898 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3706995&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fke6Ha-tgNe0%2F Two years after the Massachusetts legislature passed a controversial law that prohibits drugmakers from giving gifts and meals to doctors and other healthcare professionals, an effort to repeal the mandate is under way. The law passed as a way to limit undue industry influence over medical practice, but industry supporters still argue the measure is a hostile gesture toward drugmakers. The repeal proposal was introduced by House speaker Robert DeLeo, who is one of many politicians who feel the law has hurt local businesses, among them restaurants and caterers. His effort is contained in an economic development bill. “My faith has been restored” in the legislature, Thomas Stossel, a Brigham & Women’s Hospital physician who has been outspokenly critical of the law, tells T... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3706995 Mon, 28 Jun 2010 12:48:09 +0100 3706995 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3699708&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FQdlbcRhrvF8%2F And so another work week will soon draw to a close. Not a moment to soon, eh? Well, hopefully, your week has been productive and rewarding. Now, though, it is time to consider other activities. Have any interesting weekend plans? We hope to catch up on sundry chores, a bit of reading and promenade with the official Pharmalot mascots. Whatever you do, have an enjoyable time. See you soon… Massachusetts May Repeal Ban On Gifts To Doctors (Boston Globe) Merck Wins EMA Support For Antpsychotic (Reuters) Sanofi Signs $375M Deal With Metabolex (PharmaTimes) The Qnexa Diet Pill Goes To An FDA Panel (Minynaville) Shire Gaucher Disease Drug Wins EMA Backing (Reuters) Glaxo Explores ‘Printed’ Pill Technology (Dow Jones) Novartis’ Gleevec Fails To Win UK Backing For GIST Patie... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3699708 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:32:45 +0100 3699708 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3695806&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F06%2Fsurvey-that-rewarded-nyc-physicians.html I don't know whether to laugh or cry about all the brouhaha regarding results of a survey of NYC physicians just reported in Archives of Surgery.The survey finds that 72 percent of the 590 physicians and medical students at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine who responded "have positive attitudes toward various marketing overtures, including small gifts and lunches" (see this Pharmalot post with the headline: "Most Docs Remain Positive About Pharma Marketing").Not mentioned in the Pharmalot post is the fact that "participants who completed the survey were able to submit their names and e-mail addresses separately for the opportunity to receive 1 of 2 gift cards worth $100 each" (you have to access the METHODS section of the paper to see this; it's not in the abstract, which Pharmalot cited... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3695806 Thu, 24 Jun 2010 18:14:00 +0100 3695806 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3695809&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fe96ZMcjYRWs%2F Forget all those policies about limiting marketing activities aimed at doctors. A new survey in the Archives of Surgery finds that 72 percent continue to have positive attitudes toward various marketing overtures, including small gifts and lunches, although the docs who were familiar with institutional rules on industry interactions reported having fewer positive feelings (here is the abstract). The upshot: surgeons, trainees, and those unfamiliar with institutional policies interactions held more positive attitudes than others and were more likely to deem some gifts appropriate, including industry funding of residency programs and, among surgeons, receiving meals, travel expenses and payment for attending lectures. Nonattending physicians held more positive attitudes toward receiving meal... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3695809 Thu, 24 Jun 2010 14:03:07 +0100 3695809 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3652385&cid=t_99417_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Feco-friendly-shopping-10-fathers-day-gifts-under-10%2F It’s hard to shop for Father’s Day, but finding a gift for Dad doesn’t have to be a bust on your wallet – or the environment. Check out our 10 Father’s Day gift ideas, all under $10. (You might think you’re being cheap, but Dad will appreciate your thrift.) Post from: BlissTree Eco-Friendly Shopping: 10 Father's Day Gifts Under $10 (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3652385 Thu, 10 Jun 2010 21:15:49 +0100 3652385 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3629600&cid=t_99417_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Feco-friendly-living-10-things-to-green-your-garden%2F How does your garden grow? Probably not green-ly enough. So check out our gallery of 10 things we found to help you cultivate your garden into a more eco-friendly oasis: Post from: BlissTree Eco-Friendly Living: 10 Things to Green Your Garden (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3629600 Fri, 04 Jun 2010 14:24:40 +0100 3629600 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3560497&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fa58OBJH2UCM%2F Overwhelmed and overworked, medical students must then sort out the barrage of overtures from sales reps. But what do they make of these interactions? A paper in the Australian Medical Student Journal found that most med students have “considerable exposure” to promotion, and generally view gifts as acceptable, but only certain gifts (see page 54). Meals and textbooks are deemed more acceptable than stethoscopes, social outings and paid travel to conferences, suggesting students do attach some negative value to gifts that are viewed as more expensive, unnecessary or influential. And while most view promotion as biased, students insist it has little effect on their prescribing, but is more likely to influence their colleagues (I’m objective, you’re not?) “This ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3560497 Thu, 13 May 2010 12:17:26 +0100 3560497 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3533801&cid=t_99417_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Fmothers-day-gift-six-word-momoirs-contest-from-smith-magazine%2F This year, how would you like to give mom something on her special day that’s not completely lame and unoriginal? The solution is online, but it’s not at a florist’s website. Enter SMITH Mag, the website that spawned two bestselling crowd-sourced books, first: Not Quite What I Was Planning: Six-Word Memoirs by Writers Famous & Obscure and later: It All Changed in an Instant: More Six-Word Memoirs by Writers Famous & Obscure. Our friends at SMITH Mag are teaming up with TruuMomConfessions and Postcards From Yo Momma for a six-word MOMoir challenge, because they’re pretty sure everyone has a six-word maternal story to tell. And unlike Mother, this is easy and uncomplicated: Just visit SMITH Mag this week and create your own six-word story about being a mom, or... Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3533801 Tue, 04 May 2010 22:30:34 +0100 3533801 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3449102&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fbouquets-never-picked.html My husband, like my father, isn't the type to shout love from the rooftops. For some reason, after the intensity of our whirlwind 3-month courtship, replete with love letters, weird packages from Seattle, and phone conversations that lasted for hours, I found it hard to adjust to the whispers my new husband proffered.And then one spring, my yard burst into flames.The orange, red, yellow of the tulips blazed all across my front lawn, and I wrote about what it meant to me. Those blooms exploded the box I had put love into, and the shrapnel is still somewhat disturbing, every spring."Raindrops on roses, and whiskers on kittens". Yellow crocuses holding rain like a promise or a prayer. Unexpected shoots of tended love cropping up in the most unusual places.I hear it in the dishes being loaded ... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3449102 Thu, 08 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100 3449102 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3441054&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fpfizer-reveals-almost-all-payments-to.html Pfizer recently published its list of physician payments it made during the last half of 2009 (Q3 and Q4). The list, which is presented on this web page using javascript, includes these categories of payments:Professional AdvisingExpert-Led ForumsResearch, including Phase I-IV clinical trials and investigator-initiated researchMeals, business travel expenses and educational items that are greater than or equal to $25 in value, and where the aggregate amount paid to an individual health care professional is greater than or equal to $500 in a calendar year.Pfizer is the only pharma company to reveal how much it pays healthcare physicians and/or institutions for research. GSK and Merck, whose payments I analyzed in a recent Pharma Marketing News article ("Pharma Begins to Reveal Payments to P... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3441054 Tue, 06 Apr 2010 14:28:00 +0100 3441054 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3425096&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fmy-burning-bush.html Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful;but his delight is in the law of the Lord,and in His law he meditates day and night.He shall be like a treeplanted by the rivers of water, hat brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper. ~ Psalm 1 ~Across the road, down the valley, where the trees grow tall next the little silver thread of Big Elk Creek, there is one lone birch that shimmers every evening in the sunset. Through March and April, this tree of diamonds delights my soul every day as I go through the hard work of keeping children content and cooking dinner, all at the same time. It is by far the most difficult hour of the day for m... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3425096 Tue, 30 Mar 2010 16:06:00 +0100 3425096 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3416002&cid=t_99417_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2F3-cool-things-6%2F Three things we like, in no particular order, from Blisstree to you: ReCORK by Amorim – A wine cork recycling program led by the world’s largest natural wine-closure producer (corks are used in new SOLE flip-flops). l’aviva home – An online shop of well-curated housewares from all over the world. The “dowry” wedding gift collection is enough to persuade us that we’re the marrying kind. Liddabit Sweets – Small-batch sweets handmade in New York with local, organic ingredients are now available online, too. Suh-weet! Post from: BlissTree 3 Cool Things (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3416002 Mon, 29 Mar 2010 15:33:18 +0100 3416002 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3395182&cid=t_99417_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F23%2Fwhy-psychologists-shouldnt-prescribe%2F Beware psychiatrists bearing gifts. If psychology wants to remain a science based upon the understanding of human behavior — both normal and abnormal — and helping those with the “abnormal” components, it would do well to avoid going down the road of prescription privileges. But perhaps it’s already too late. We first noted this disturbing trend in 2006, how they were shot down 9 out of 9 times trying to gain prescription privileges in 2007, and why prescription privileges for psychologists will eventually drive psychiatrists out of a job. We also noted that one of the programs setup to help psychologists get prescription training wasn’t a “college” at all. The fundamental problem with psychologists gaining prescription privileges is the inev... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3395182 Tue, 23 Mar 2010 09:54:19 +0100 3395182 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3366429&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FJ1UrRXBRpCA%2F The Medical Council of India has proposed penal punishment for doctors accepting cash and any other gifts from drugmakers, although action would depend on individual states and the willingness of state medical councils to pursue action, The Business Standard writes. The proposal is now being reviewed by the health ministry. “The practice of taking expensive gifts from pharmaceutical companies was increasing the cost of healthcare substantially,” Vinay Aggarwal, former secretary-general of the Indian Medical Association, tells the paper. “Faith in the profession has been dented. We are trying to bring it back,” Desai said. “We are not trying to do any policing. We are professionals. This should not happen in a profession that is called noble.” Last December, the MCI... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3366429 Mon, 15 Mar 2010 12:21:33 +0100 3366429 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3362442&cid=t_99417_109_f&fid=38953&url=http%3A%2F%2Frileyjennifer.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fis-it-ok-for-therapist-to-acceptgive.html Is it ok for a therapist to accept gifts? This is something that varies between therapists, with some drawing an absolute boundary at ‘no, not ever.’ While certain gifts such as those of large monetary value, of cash itself, should be gently and graciously turned away, small trinkets of acknowledgment and gratitude can be accepted. The hurt that could be caused by such a rejection may not justify rigid boundaries. The intent of gift should be examined in any case and if gift giving becomes overly compulsive, acceptance of the gifts would need to stop.Is it ok for a therapist to give gifts? Yes. Because presents are shiny and they make people happy. Seriously though, at certain times gift giving may be appropriate and alleviate loneliness. Again, the gift should have little or no moneta... Psych Scamp blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3362442 Fri, 12 Mar 2010 22:27:00 +0100 3362442 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3294784&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2F2-years-and-blink-of-eye.html Oh, how they delight to serve and celebrate those they love! How easy it is to train them in big life lessons by simply taking them by the hand and leading them along with me in my work. When my day has been busy and long, it is so easy to push them out into the margins, banish them to the most distant playroom, and hustle about my work. But how large the dividend when I beg strength from the Father who so generously bestows, and spend an hour cleaning, baking and decorating with these dear ones.The older takes the younger alongside and teaches her, the younger sister so intent on every move the elder makes. Raymond and Dorothy Moore (books passed down from my wise mother) taught me it is much easier to teach something once than four times over. And that the best gift you can give your lea... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3294784 Mon, 22 Feb 2010 05:42:00 +0100 3294784 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3236084&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Ftransparency-vs-translucency-in.html "Transparency" is a word you often hear today. It's being used a lot in relation to Wall Street bonuses. It's also used by pharmaceutical companies who are reporting payments made to physicians.The latest pharma company to report its physician payments is Cephalon. "Cephalon supports transparency in its financial relationships with healthcare professionals," says the intro to the page where financial data are presented (see "Fee for Services Paid to Healthcare Professionals"). "We believe it is important for the public to understand that our partnerships with healthcare professionals allow us to develop and bring new medicines to market, address the needs of patients, and assure the safe and appropriate use of our medications."Now I could be "snarky" and debate whether or not all these "fe... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3236084 Wed, 03 Feb 2010 13:28:00 +0100 3236084 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3212598&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fwhy-does-gsk-prefer-new-york-physicians.html In the January issue of Pharma Marketing News, which will be published today, one article focuses on payments made to physicians by Merck, GSK, and Lilly (see "Pharma Begins to Reveal Payments to Physicians: Analyzing the Numbers to Spread the Sunshine"). Figures 2 and 3 from that article are reproduced below:New York stands out as a state receiving not only the highest total payments (#1 for GSK and #2 for Merck), but also on a per physician basis. If all the money GSK paid to physicians in NY were spread equally among all the 26, 716 physicians in the state, each physician would get $70.17. In comparison, for Merck that number would be $12.06 per physician, which is low by comparison with GSK, but still the highest for any state in Merck’s dataset. California’s physicians, on the oth... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3212598 Wed, 27 Jan 2010 13:07:00 +0100 3212598 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3208690&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=38374&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FePharmaSummit%2F%7E3%2FxoaJBTSCs2k%2Fny-governor-patterson-pushes-for-pharma.html (Source: ePharma Summit) ePharma Summit blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3208690 Tue, 26 Jan 2010 14:54:00 +0100 3208690 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3175845&cid=t_99417_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blisstree.com%2Fbreastfeeding123%2Fhaiti-disaster-relief-organizations%2F The devastating earthquake this week in Haiti again brings to the forefront the issue of infant feeding in emergencies. You might recall how dangerous it is for relief efforts to send artificial baby milk to disaster sites due to a lack of sanitary water, inadequate supplies, the increased risk of deadly respiratory infections and diarrhea in non-breastfed babies, and poor access to medical care. A man carries a baby among the debris in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on 13 January 2010 after a 7.0 magnitude earthquake that hit the island on 12 January 2010; IMG: ZUMA Press So if you choose to donate to an organization involved in the relief efforts in Haiti, please consider choosing an organization that supports breastfeeding in emergencies. As a starting place to determine which agency in your ho... Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3175845 Thu, 14 Jan 2010 19:33:58 +0100 3175845 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3164051&cid=t_99417_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FMariYUL9n70%2F Some Gifts of becoming clean and sober We’ll be amazed at and proud of changes we make We’ll be freer and happier than we could imagine Our mistakes won’t haunt us We’ll feel calmer and more confident What we’ve been through will help us help others We’ll stop feeling stupid and sorry for ourselves We’ll be more considerate of our friends and [...] (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3164051 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:41:35 +0100 3164051 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3120571&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F12%2Fmerry-christmas-everyone.html And the mother wondered and bowed her head,And sat as still as a statue of stone,Her heart was troubled yet comforted,Remembering what the Angel had said Of an endless reign and of David's throne.~ The Three Kings, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow ~Merry Christmas! We had our reunion on Monday, and then opened presents as a family Monday night. The kids could barely go to sleep, and will be up with the birds, I'm sure - to play with all their new toys! (Source: Turquoise Gates) Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3120571 Thu, 24 Dec 2009 18:08:00 +0100 3120571 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3079402&cid=t_99417_109_f&fid=38953&url=http%3A%2F%2Frileyjennifer.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F12%2Fgifts-for-someone-who-is-depressed.html This could be for the holidays or a special occasion or just because. The best gift is your support, but presents are nice too. The following list is compiled from ideas I found on the interweb and my own ideas. There are of course many wonderful gifts you could give to any person, but I tried to make this more specific for depressed people by choosing gifts that are not only presents, but will enhance their life in a healthy and positive way. * Ask them to do something healthy for you -bake a cake, make a cd, play a song if they play an instrument. Some people might be more willing to engage in activity if they’re not concerned about the cost/benefit to themselves. Eventually, an individual has to choose to things by and for themselves, but a little help getting started can go a long wa... Psych Scamp blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3079402 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 23:45:00 +0100 3079402 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3048306&cid=t_99417_135_f&fid=35247&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmyjourneywithaids.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F01%2Fjust-one-gift-to-go%2F Since my brother Craig’s death in 2007 the Christmas shopping for adults in the immediate family has become even easier than the draw for names that we used to do. We all donate at least $50 (the maximum we used to spend on one gift) to Craig’s memorial fund. With a niece and nephew [...] (Source: My journey with AIDS) My journey with AIDS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3048306 Wed, 02 Dec 2009 03:30:15 +0100 3048306 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3036936&cid=t_99417_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blisstree.com%2Fbreastfeeding123%2Ffive-non-traditional-breastfeeding-gifts%2F If you are crafty you can hand-make any number of breastfeeding-related gifts, but if you are not so inclined, I have five ideas for non-traditional gifts for the new mother that range from under $10 all the way up to $169. 1. Klean Kanteen Water Bottles. Staying hydrated is important for the breastfeeding mother but remembering to drink enough water can be difficult for the busy new mom. It helps to keep water beside the nursing chair and by the bed. Make it easier for the new mother with one or more of these Klean Kanteen Stainless Steel Colored Water Bottles. I like Klean Kanteen because the bottles are made from food grade stainless steel that is non-leaching, toxin-free and BPA-free. It’s an environmentally-friendly choice both because it eliminates the waste of plastic water bo... Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3036936 Sun, 29 Nov 2009 12:36:03 +0100 3036936 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3030064&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=37852&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdonnatrussell.com%2F2009%2F11%2F26%2Fan-ungifters-guide-to-black-friday%2F My new post on Politics Daily / Woman Up: Before you haul yourself to the shopping mall for the American ritual known as Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving, when retail merchants leap out of the red ink and into the black), consider giving yourself a little holiday gift I’m not saying that just because of the recession. Or because in 1989 I ventured on to the Houston freeway system on the day after Thanksgiving and developed a traffic phobia that persists to this day. Gifts can hurt… Read the rest on AOL. An Ungifter’s Guide to Black Friday. Posted in Politics Daily Tagged: anti-clutter, black friday, clutter, consumerism, gift guide, green gifts, shopping, ungift (Source: Donna Trussell) Donna Trussell blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3030064 Thu, 26 Nov 2009 17:00:23 +0100 3030064 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3029783&cid=t_99417_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blisstree.com%2Fbreastfeeding123%2Ftop-5-reasons-to-give-to-llli-now%2F I am just going to come right out and say it: Please donate to La Leche League International as part of your charitable giving for 2009. Why? I will give you five good reasons why. 1. Double any gift given before December 31, 2009. Generous donors have agreed to match dollar-for-dollar any donation made between now and December 31, 2009. Your financial contribution will go twice as far in supporting breastfeeding mothers around the world. 2. Help fix what has gone wrong. The need for mother-to-mother breastfeeding support is greater than ever! As a breastfeeding advocate it saddens me that mothers continue to receive bad advice and misinformation from many of the medical professionals that provide care to new mothers and their nurslings. Somewhere along the way we lost the model of grandm... Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3029783 Wed, 25 Nov 2009 19:36:12 +0100 3029783 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2943749&cid=t_99417_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blisstree.com%2Fbreastfeeding123%2F2010-breastfeeding-calendars%2F When doing your holiday gift shopping, consider one of these beautiful calendars featuring breastfeeding pictures from various non-profit organizations. You can have your 2010 calendar shopping make a difference for mothers and babies around the world by purchasing one of the following calendars: ~ Check out the 12 full-color pictures from the IBFAN Breastfeeding Calendar 2010. The calendar is available from Baby Milk Action for £7, £6 if ordering 10 or more. Add £2 per calendar for shipping and handling outside the United Kingdom (although you might be able to order a calendar from your national International Baby Food Action Netork group). ~ The 2010 Australian Breastfeeding Association Calendar features 14 breastfeeding pictures selected from thousands of submissions. It sells for A... Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2943749 Fri, 30 Oct 2009 09:18:37 +0100 2943749 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2916437&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FhqK-lsZLBPE%2F Earlier this week, we noted how Schering-Plough displayed this sign at the recent gathering of the American College of Emergency Physicians in Boston, the capital of Massachusetts, which is one of three states that have passed restrictive laws on what drug makers may give doctors in the way of gifts. To comply, Schering-Plough turned away docs from Massachusetts, Vermont and Minnesota. But a source points out that the limit in Minnesota, for instance, is $50. According to state law, doctors can receive gifts from “wholesalers and manufacturers up to a combined annual limit of $50 in retail value. That is, the total retail value of gifts given to a practitioner must not exceed $50 per year (look here). And so we wonder - how much might an ice cream cone cost? Unless Schering-Plough&#8... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2916437 Thu, 22 Oct 2009 16:06:20 +0100 2916437 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2894768&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F10%2Fno-schering-plough-ice-cream-for-you-ma.html The pharmaceutical industry doesn't like "sunshine" laws passed in some states that either forbid or put limits on gifts to physicians. In a bid to prevent these laws from passing, the industry made threats to pick up their dollar bills and play in other states; eg, not run clinical trials in Massachusetts or not have booths at medical meetings in Vermont. As if!Some might call it blackmail, others call it good business practice. Whatever. The ploy didn't work and Massachusetts, Vermont, and Minnesota passed their laws anyway. And drug companies still run clinical trials and have booths at medical meetings in those states, which are renowned for their medical clinics and/or meeting venues (MA: All sorts of great medical centers; MN: Mayo Clinic; Vermont: skiing; say no more, a nod's as goo... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2894768 Thu, 15 Oct 2009 12:16:00 +0100 2894768 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2615413&cid=t_99417_122_f&fid=34755&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneuropsychological.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F07%2Ffrom-folks-at-mind-hacks.html http://www.mindhacks.com/blog/2009/07/brain_shaker.htmlBrain-shaped salt and pepper shakers; the perfect gift for the neuroscientist who thinks he or she is Gordon Ramsey! (Source: BrainBlog) BrainBlog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2615413 Sun, 19 Jul 2009 05:50:00 +0100 2615413 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2463201&cid=t_99417_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F06%2Flaws-of-physics-kirby.html Hosted by "Tracy" at "Mother May I," but the photo-picture below will whizz you right there with one click.Happy!Today I have to spotlight my daughter, a tiny icon. You may remember that we had a "breakthrough" around here when my son decided that he both could and would draw, freely. It was pretty momentus for us.His birthday was just around the corner and we take presents pretty seriously. We both favour the hand made kind of gift, the ones that take very little money but do require a great deal of thinking time and effort.So this is a magical feat of artistry to me. He drew the pictures and his big sister transferred the images to the computer, coloured them in and then transferred them onto a t-shirt.The gift was a hit. He was both mystified and delighted. that was the real gift, the ... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2463201 Mon, 08 Jun 2009 06:25:00 +0100 2463201 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2442754&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F05%2Fdrug-companies-bedazzle-docs-in.html A new West Virginia state report shows drug manufacturers gave thousands of gifts and payments to doctors and nurses in West Virginia last year, ranging from the cost of a lunch to outlays of $20,000 or more (see "Report: Drug Companies Spend Thousands on W.Va. Gifts").I'm from NYC, so forgive me for referring to West Virginia as "the boondocks." The state only has 5,152 doctors and nurse practitioners who can prescribe medicine. But here's a synopsis of the drug company money spent on wooing them:15,382 gifts, grants or payments42 payments of $20,000 or more574 payments of $2,500 or more14,808 payments between $100 and $2,500Unfortunately, the report didn't track payments made to each prescriber nor did it give a total amount, so it's difficult to get an average spent per prescriber. But ... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2442754 Fri, 29 May 2009 17:54:00 +0100 2442754 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2424496&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F05%2Fbehrman-wasnt-first-patient.html Andy Behrman -- aka "Electroboy" -- is being raked over the coals for first shilling for BMS' drug Abilify (for which BMS paid him $400,000), then "shaking down" BMS for a new contract and then launching an anti-Abilify campaign when he didn't get it (see "Andy Behrman, Now an Anti-BMS Spokesperson, Says 'Ask Your Doctor If Abilify is Wrong for You'").While many bloggers are focused on what Behrman has been and is doing, few are focused on what I consider to be the real issues:* Is it appropriate for pharma companies to pay patients such huge sums to promote their products?* Is this done often by all pharmaceutical companies or is it just something unique to BMS?To answer these questions, I will relate a personal story where I was involved with another patient paid huge sums of money by BM... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2424496 Wed, 20 May 2009 11:32:00 +0100 2424496 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2415551&cid=t_99417_122_f&fid=37835&url=http%3A%2F%2Fintelligencetesting.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F05%2Fg-generl-intelligence-t-shirt.html I was picking and poking around the intelligence web today and re-visited the London School of Individual Differences web page.  I found they had a few t-shirts for sale.  One is a simple "g" (general intelligence) shirt.  Maybe a nice B-day or XMAS gift for your favorite IQ nut or psychometric quantoid.Technorati Tags: psychology, educational psychology, school psychology, neuropsychology, cognition, intelligence, ISIR, IQ, IQ tests, IQ scores, g, general intelligence (Source: Intelligent Insights on Intelligence Theories and Tests (aka IQ's Corner)) Intelligent Insights on Intelligence Theories and Tests (aka IQ's Corner) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2415551 Fri, 15 May 2009 15:32:00 +0100 2415551 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2406172&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F05%2Fend-all-pharma-freebies-to-physicians.html Has the time come for physicians to be forcibly weaned away from ALL pharma "freebies," including CME and drug samples? Or should the principle caveat doctor be emphasized?An editorial in today's issue of Archives of Internal Medicine (Arch Intern Med. 2009;169[9]:829-831), a medical journal published by the American Medical Association, entitled "Time for the Medical Profession to Act," argues that it is time to prohibit pharma companies from providing free gifts, free meals, free CME, and free samples to physicians.The author, Philip Greenland, MD, of the Feinberg School of Medicine (Northwesetrn University) points out that the new PhRMA Code on Interactions with Healthcare Professionals (see PMN Reprint #77-01) does not prohibit sponsorship of office-based or hospital-based meals, conti... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2406172 Mon, 11 May 2009 21:00:00 +0100 2406172 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2398612&cid=t_99417_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blisstree.com%2Fbreastfeeding123%2Fmothers-day-gifts-of-time-and-service%2F What do mothers want this Mother’s Day? With the recession, I am guessing that gifts of time and service top the list! Such gifts often mean more than those that cost a lot of money anyway! Photo courtesy of A.D.A. Ana Duncan Art and J.G. WhitnerPersonally (and I will be forwarding this post to my husband!) I want a hot bath and time to myself to read a book. Alone time is at a premium for me with three kids including a 9-month-old, and a hot bath and a good book would go a long way to restoring my spirit! I do not like to be away from my baby — that’s not relaxing to me — so a bubble bath provides the perfect escape for an hour or more! Other ideas for gifts of time or service: ~ home-cooked dinner for two after the kids have gone to bed ~ freezer meals — mak... Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2398612 Sat, 09 May 2009 16:29:15 +0100 2398612 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2389977&cid=t_99417_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FXfGBrj9l4qY%2F If you’re looking for a great Mother’s Day gift, consider giving money to the American Diabetes Association (ADA). The ADA offers several different types of giving initiatives, including honor gifts, stocks, and accessories. If your mom or someone close to her has diabetes, what better way to show them you care than by giving money toward a cure. It’s better than flowers! (But it’s always a good idea to get them anyway!) If giving a gift in honor of your mom, don’t forget to write out your reasons for doing so in a card. When your mom is able to understand why it was important for you to do that, she’ll appreciate the gift all the more. Image: sxc.hu Share and Enjoy: Post from: Blisstree Make a Diabetes Donation in Honor of M... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2389977 Mon, 04 May 2009 23:14:14 +0100 2389977 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2381529&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F05%2Fconfession-of-kol-perverse-effect-of.html "I was also wrong about disclosure," said James Stein, MD at a University of Wisconsin conflict of interest seminar (see video here). Dr. Stein, a cardiologist, was proud to list all his drug company affiliations on his CV in the 90's and admitted he liked the money he got from being on their advisory boards and speakers' bureaus."I really felt that if I stood up in front of a crowd and said these are my disclosures, look how honest I am, that I was really managing conflict of interest. The literature tells me it [has] the opposite effect. Although its laudable to disclose your relationships [with drug companies] ... it actually has the perverse effect. The recipient of your information becomes more trusting. Also, professionals who disclose become more biased. That's the perverse effect o... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2381529 Fri, 01 May 2009 13:12:00 +0100 2381529 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2341859&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F04%2Fviagra-boxers-example-of-proto.html "[Pfizer] has initiated an internal investigation following the dispatch to GPs of pairs of boxer shorts, bearing a Pfizer logo to mark the tenth anniversary of the erectile dysfunction medication Viagra in Ireland," reports IrishTimes.com ('Viagra boxers' to GPs cause quite a stir)."One GP who received the boxers said he 'hadn’t had such a good laugh at a time when there weren't many opportunities to do so', while another said she had no intention of returning the item and only regretted that a Viagra-equivalent for women wasn’t on the market."I searched and searched Google to see if I could find an image of these boxers online, but was unsuccessful.I did find, however, a site that sells T-shirts, boxers, and thongs emblazoned with "I (heart) Viagra."The image on the left is my interp... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2341859 Tue, 14 Apr 2009 11:27:00 +0100 2341859 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2212645&cid=t_99417_177_f&fid=38134&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbabybound.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F02%2F24%2Fi-am-super-here-me-roar%2F I am very proud of myself today.  No, I didn’t cure cancer or end world hunger, but I did do something rather difficult for any freak infertile woman.  I bought a baby shower gift.  I know right?  I’m growing. So this shower that I was suppose to go to last week but got moved to this week and then got canceled because the baby wasn’t invited but decided to crash anyway.  Yeah the shower that has had my head wrapped around it for a couple of weeks now because I didn’t want to f.ing have anything to do with it but I liked the mom-to-be so so so much f. f. f. have trouble with all things baby.  Well?  Even though I completely dodged a bullet here, I still felt that I absolutely had to get her a baby gift.  I wanted to get her a baby gift.  This is a coworker t... B a b y B o u n d blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2212645 Tue, 24 Feb 2009 23:55:22 +0100 2212645 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2200571&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F02%2Famgens-bike-jersey-tchotchke-available.html (Source: Pharma Marketing Blog) Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2200571 Fri, 20 Feb 2009 11:15:00 +0100 2200571 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2157309&cid=t_99417_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Faspieweb%2F%7E3%2FspaslCPAFPQ%2F Valentines day is coming up around the corner and as those of us with Aspergers that are in relationships are starting to realize - its a daunting time of year, so many choices.  In part 1 of this series I’m going to show some great gift ideas for those relationships that involve someone on the [...] This is an excerpt from an article on AspieWeb.net, A blog writen by an Autistic Blogger. (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2157309 Tue, 03 Feb 2009 20:51:52 +0100 2157309 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2132560&cid=t_99417_97_f&fid=35606&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.theangriestpharmacist.com%2F2009%2F01%2F25%2Fanother-rule-or-two-to-circumvent%2F I’m excited. We’ve got more rules to break or circumvent. Are you? http://tinyurl.com/NoMorePens — News Article http://tinyurl.com/BigPharma — Members of PhRMA As you all may have heard, certain pharmaceutical companies have recently adopted a new “ETHICS POLICY” banning all gift-giving to prescribers. They are still allowed, however, to disperse “EDUCATIONAL MATERIAL” as well as meals for “office-based lessons.” [I read this as "LOTION" for "HANDJOBS" or "BREASTS" for "GAWKING' AT" -- with the lotion being slapped with a FORTAMET sticker, of course!] We all know that this is horseshit (what Pharma said — what I said is right on the money). While they cannot give away pens, clocks, stress balls, calendars, scissors, stapler... The Angriest Pharmacist blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2132560 Sun, 25 Jan 2009 17:00:29 +0100 2132560 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2121700&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F01%2Fobama-following-phrmas-lead-bans-gifts.html (Source: Pharma Marketing Blog) Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2121700 Wed, 21 Jan 2009 21:19:00 +0100 2121700 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2112255&cid=t_99417_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FMzf0YovXcHE%2F Thank you Since the season of gifts and giving recently passed, I guess I’m more aware that “thank you” and thank you notes (even e-mails) have become a lost art or lost courtesy. When we received gifts, or even were shown acts of kindness and consideration, my mom had us children write thank you notes.  Each year, the day after Christmas, Mother had us four children sit at the dining table and write notes to whomever had given us gifts.  Even as Mother was entering ther Alzheimer’s years, she’d still remind me that we had to write thank you notes when someone gave her a gift or did a favor.  This became so ingrained in me, it’s become almost automatic that I think, “I must write a thank you note.”  And I look for pretty note paper for th... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2112255 Sun, 18 Jan 2009 05:00:47 +0100 2112255 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2089879&cid=t_99417_87_f&fid=34825&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wesleyjsmith.com%2Fblog%2F2009%2F01%2Fmans-wife-cheats-he-wants-his-kidney.html This may ibe the biggest case of ingratitude about which I ever heard: Dr. Richard Batista gave his wife Dawnell one of his kidneys--and then, he says, she cheated on him. Now, as part of the divorce he wants compensation for his lost kidney. From the story:"There's no deeper pain you can ever express than to be betrayed by the person you devoted your life to," he told reporters. "I saved her life but the pain is unbearable."The vascular surgeon's lawyer Dominic Barbara said his client wanted $1.5 million in compensation for the kidney as part of a bitter matrimonial break-up which has dragged on for three years. "As part of the litigation we are asking for the value of the kidney that he gave his wife," said Mr Barbara. "In theory we are asking for the return of the kidney. Of course, he ... Secondhand Smoke blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2089879 Fri, 09 Jan 2009 01:37:00 +0100 2089879 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2089987&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F01%2Ffree-health-speech-marketers-reach-for.html (Source: Pharma Marketing Blog) Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2089987 Thu, 08 Jan 2009 12:17:00 +0100 2089987 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2067684&cid=t_99417_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F12%2Fsome-kind-of-hero.html Get the code:-Cut and pastefrom this littleboxy thing below Generally speaking, I use ‘electronics time’ to be productive. However, the new Wii game, guitar hero, proves to be quite a challenge. There’s the issue of finger isolation, co-ordination and any number of different skills that prove insurmountable but tantalizingly tempting for the junior members of the household. Personally, I’d rather watch paint dry, but it takes all sorts I suppose. Although the persevere to master these new skills, the ratio of grief to joy is not favourable. I need ear plugs for the wailing let alone the actual music itself. I expect a plastic guitar to be hurled with every passing missed note. As a result my own productivity reaches at all time low as they cannot be left unsupervised unless I wish... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2067684 Sat, 27 Dec 2008 07:59:00 +0100 2067684 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2075153&cid=t_99417_117_f&fid=36026&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.healthtalk.com%2Fzimney%2Fchristmas-trees-and-allergies-a-survival-guide%2F It’s been a wild and wooly holiday season in the greater Seattle area this year with temperatures below freezing and lots of snow on the ground - both distinctly unusual phenomena in this neck of the woods. The roads have often been impassable and there’ve been widespread power outages, which have caused us to spend a lot of time at home, hunkered down by the fire and the Christmas tree. This in turn led me to recall a piece I wrote a year ago about Christmas trees and allergies, which I thought I’d reprise for today, December 25. Both real and artificial Christmas trees can cause problems for some people with allergies. It’s not known how many people suffer from Christmas tree-related allergies. But if you find yourself with a runny nose, itchy eyes or maybe even i... Dr. Z's Medical Report blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2075153 Thu, 25 Dec 2008 18:40:08 +0100 2075153 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2061124&cid=t_99417_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F3iL4EZOF_vo%2F  Handmade Gifts  I grew up in the era of handmade or homemade gifts.  Sometimes this was because we and our relatives didn’t have the money to purchase many from the store or mail order catalog.  Often it simply was because we liked to make something special and the recipients enjoyed these gifts.  In later years, when I had a family, we made gifts for my mom and for my mother-in-law as well as others.  One Christmas, my daughter Beth stitched my mother a lap quilt.  Mother always had enjoyed quilts although she hadn’t made any since she was a child.   She seemed to enjoy this gift, even though she had Alzheimer’s and resided in a nursing home.  She would finger the pattern and pieces and comment, “Pretty.”  My mother-in-law asked Beth to ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2061124 Tue, 23 Dec 2008 18:52:44 +0100 2061124 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2055769&cid=t_99417_134_f&fid=35196&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdiabeticliving.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F12%2Fbook-review-of-what-to-expect-when-you.html The book has 170 tips for folks dealing with Diabetes. It is very much a low level reference book that is a good addition to any library. A lot of this information you see in there is easily available on various websites, but then this is a nice and neat compilation available to look up when ever you need to.I like the idea of having this book to quickly check on questions that arise as I deal with my diabetes. The thing with having a disease like diabetes is that you never know all about the disease at any one time. Various issues/complication arise over time. It is nice to have a source to look at questions.The book is not going to answer your questions in detail. But it sure is a nice place to start.The book is well organized and finding the answers to the questions is simple as looking... Living with Diabetes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2055769 Mon, 22 Dec 2008 03:03:00 +0100 2055769 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2052913&cid=t_99417_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FKpTECLmvD6M%2F THURSDAY THIRTEEN   Often it’s difficult to think of gifts for the Alzheimer’s patient.  Also, it depends on which stage they’re at in their illness…whether they recognize or remember.  Below is a list of suggestions.  Some may entertain and bring comfort.  Others may simply make caring for them easier. Baby Doll Stuffed Animal Clothing with Back Closures Non-skid slippers Food they like and is good for them A non-breakable snow glow ball A tea party in the activity room A lap quilt or afghan A pretty pillow Family pictures in non-breakable frames A small scrapbook or photo album of familiar scenes A CD of familiar music A DVD of a movie they enjoy  What suggestions do you have for Alzheimer’s gifts? Tags: Alzheimer's gifts, Alzheimer's Notes, Al... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2052913 Thu, 18 Dec 2008 21:35:54 +0100 2052913 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2047736&cid=t_99417_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FBreastfeeding123%2F%7E3%2FKn88X2NuLjM%2F Still looking for the perfect gift for the breastfeeding mother on your list? How about making your own breastfeeding-related gift? Or if you are not so handy, check out Etsy.com, where a search for “breastfeeding” revealed over 1,500 handmade items ranging from nursing necklaces, to ring slings, nursing pads, breastfeeding clothing, nursing covers, breastfeeding art and more! Gift image by Garrison Photography Tags: christmas gifts, gift guide, gift ideas, handmade giftsShare This (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2047736 Wed, 17 Dec 2008 13:10:50 +0100 2047736 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2040120&cid=t_99417_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2FqyPMQQEcbQQ%2F ‘Tis the holiday season and I have pretty much finished shopping for everyone on our list, from relatives to my sister to multiple cousins, office staff, the letter carrier, Charlie’s teacher and aides, Jim—-and I’m down to one last person. Charlie. What do you get for the boy who doesn’t seem to want anything? Today’s Chicago Tribune captures this dilemma: Parents struggle with whether to oblige the child who desires nothing more than church directories, word puzzles, spinning toys or even cleaning supplies—all real examples from youngsters’ wish lists. Friends might see the child’s exotic interests as humorous or cute. But the youngster’s family recognizes that the obsession represents their child’s special need for a coping t... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2040120 Mon, 15 Dec 2008 21:31:48 +0100 2040120 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2036121&cid=t_99417_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Faspieweb%2F%7E3%2FGe2_8DbUavs%2F As Christmas quickly approaches so does the daunting task of finding the perfect gift for someone, and as you know people with Aspergers or other Autism Spectrum disorders can be somewhat distant, and even difficult to shop for.  So I wrote several suggestions here to help with the task of shopping. Weighted Blanket - I don’t [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2036121 Sun, 14 Dec 2008 23:18:21 +0100 2036121 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2035590&cid=t_99417_109_f&fid=34730&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychiatrist-blog.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F12%2Fand-partridge-in-pear-tree.html 'Tis the season. In the past, I've talked about What to Get Your Psychiatrist for Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa. Today, I'm going to talk about gift-giving and gift-getting in general. But this is Shrink Rap, you say, what do presents have to do with psychiatry? Pretty much nothing, except that gifts are often a topic people talk about in psychotherapy. Over the years, as both the listener of many gift-related stories, and outside the office as both a gift-giver and gift-receiver, I've made some observations. If you wanted psychiatry, try another blog and check again tomorrow with Shrink Rap...Okay, so gifts are always a complicated issue. Before you buy anyone a gift (with very few exceptions, the major one being sweet young children who sometimes actually are excited and surprised), h... Shrink Rap blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2035590 Sun, 14 Dec 2008 03:36:00 +0100 2035590 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2034531&cid=t_99417_177_f&fid=38133&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FTubalReversalBlog%2F%7E3%2F483093273%2Ftubal-ligation-reversal-at-46-patricias-story-part-3.html Patricia, a 46 year old tubal reversal patient of Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center, has her tubal reversal surgery a day after her television appearance on the QVC Channel. Patricia did extremely well with her television appearance and her reversal surgery. Her tubes were very healthy and her ovaries yielded an unexpected but pleasant surprise! (Source: Tubal Reversal Blog) Tubal Reversal Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2034531 Fri, 12 Dec 2008 22:53:07 +0100 2034531 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2033099&cid=t_99417_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2008%2F12%2F12%2Fcan-i-give-my-therapist-a-gift%2F A commonly-asked question at this time of the year is, “Can I give my therapist a Christmas or holiday gift? What about just a card?” The answer varies from therapist to therapist and from doctor to doctor. Generally therapists seek to keep the relationship between a client and themselves a professional one, despite the emotional material often discussed in psychotherapy. The more the line blurs between “professional therapist” and “paid friend,” the more complicated the relationship becomes. So most therapists will seek to keep that line — what they call a boundary — clear and well-understood by both parties. Some therapists will talk about the subject proactively, letting each client know ahead of time what their policy is regarding pres... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2033099 Fri, 12 Dec 2008 14:18:57 +0100 2033099 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2029473&cid=t_99417_177_f&fid=38133&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FTubalReversalBlog%2F%7E3%2F479493291%2Ftubal-ligation-reversal-at-46-2.html Patricia explains her the reason for her tubal ligation and the reasons she now seeks tubal ligation reversal. Patricia offers a detailed explanation of her desires and reasons for seeking a tubal ligation reversal at the age of 46. Her story is both motivational and inspirational to other women who want to add a baby to the lives of their families. (Source: Tubal Reversal Blog) Tubal Reversal Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2029473 Tue, 09 Dec 2008 12:51:41 +0100 2029473 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2021555&cid=t_99417_87_f&fid=35052&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FWomensBioethicsBlog%2F%7E3%2F477809466%2F10-gift-ideas-for-your-favorite.html 1. Motivational (or de-motivational, if you want to apply the precautionary principle) poster, to keep your priorities straight.2. Motivational mug (akin to the poster, the pessimistic's mug, fashioned by the perpetually miserable) 3. Fingerless Gloves, for your favorite bloggers or technophiles.4. A power tie, to keep you connected, or a Bio-scarf, that features your favorite doomsday scenario.5. From medical tourism abroad to cultural diversity, a Travel book (on the Touristic Guidings to Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan)6. Computer accessories to make your desk more, umm, interesting?7. Genome family pack from 23andme.com (who could resist that?)8. If you were a fan of Indecision 2008, you might enjoy a Colbert Christmas Yule log. 9. More computer accessories, courtesy of your favorite IVF... Women's Bioethics Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2021555 Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:34:34 +0100 2021555 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2011257&cid=t_99417_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FIMiDWzBx9rQ%2F You’ll find a series of giveaways at One Book Two Book, running from Dec. 2-7.  Check out the rules and leave comments at the following links.  You can enter any or all of the giveaways.  These prizes will make great Christmas gifts for youngsters, too. Book Swim Giveaway Readeez DVD Giveaway Baby Can Read Giveaway Wii Pop Star Guitar Giveaway Fly Me To The Moon Giveaway Giveaway - Celebrity Arthur Book from Speakaboos Giveaway - Countdown to Bedtime Soundbooks Giiveaway - ECO Baby Organic Playdough Baby Potential Teacher Onesie Giveaway Natural Pod Giveaway RideMakerz Giveaway Happy Green Bee Giveaway Mead Writing Fundamentals Giveaway Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Christmas gifts, giveaways, Mary Emma Allen, One Book Two Book, random drawingsShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2011257 Thu, 04 Dec 2008 05:39:53 +0100 2011257 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2019246&cid=t_99417_177_f&fid=38134&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbabybound.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F12%2F03%2Ftime-to-tighten-those-purse-straps-i-have-no-idea-what-that-means%2F Met with the financial coordinator at the baby factory today.  Holy Christnickles.  There goes the 50″ flat screen my boss and husband seem to think we should get.  (Being that my boss has about as much knowledge of our personal finances as Mark does, I’d say they can both suck it.) This cycle is costing us quite a bit more than the last 800 we’ve done.  Why?  Well times are tough for everyone, yo.  Somebody has to pay for Doctor Miracle’s kids to go to summer camp next year.  And the year after.  And…wait let’s face it, I’m payin for those kids to go to college.  I damn well better get a thank you card. Looks like BabyBound is stickin to a list and checking it twice this Christmas….do you think I can get Doc Miracle’s kids to ... B a b y B o u n d blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2019246 Thu, 04 Dec 2008 00:26:43 +0100 2019246 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2006516&cid=t_99417_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FBreastfeeding123%2F%7E3%2FCYb3Qtn_egE%2F Need some gift ideas? I have made shopping easy by hand-picking my single favorite book in each category! From babies to toddlers, mothers, fathers, grandparents and medical professionals, you can find something for everyone in this gift giving guide. Tags: economical gifts, frugal gifts, gift giving, gift giving guide, holiday, holiday-giftsShare This (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2006516 Tue, 02 Dec 2008 08:08:04 +0100 2006516 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2005926&cid=t_99417_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F12%2Flast-minute-gift-try-tackling-it.html This decorative tissue box cover provides an inexpensive, attractive, yet all too seasonal gift. It is also ready wrapped to save paper.Sniff.I’m told by those who know about such things that ‘gold’ is THE colour of choice but this could easily be adapted to anyone’s personal preferences.The choice of fabrics in America is quite daunting, everything from golfing prints to stamp samples, so don’t rule out the unisex option. Fortunately there are also many cheaper remnants available for the thrifty.Here’s how to put it together.For your base colour, duplicate for contracting top colour. Don't forget to cut out a square for the bottom.French seam the base colour strip and top colour strip together. French seam the side until you have the equivalent of a cylinder. Add the base. Hem... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2005926 Tue, 02 Dec 2008 07:59:00 +0100 2005926 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2006517&cid=t_99417_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FBreastfeeding123%2F%7E3%2FjmZ2LT91HU0%2F This year bloggers from around b5media’s Lifestyles, Health and Wellness channels are giving readers a special surprise. We’ve created a virtual mall to help you choose the perfect holiday gifts! I have made shopping for everyone on your list easy by hand-picking my favorite book for each recipient, from infants and toddlers to mothers, fathers, grandparents, and medical professionals. Check out the Breastfeeding 1-2-3 gift giving guide. Stop by Kettle and Cup and select your favorite hot beverage, then kick back and browse the rest of this year’s Holiday Gift Guide Shopping Extravaganza. Cherie from Career and Kids has the perfect list for the business woman/working parent. Mary Emma from One Book Two Book shares a suggested shopping list for the avid reader and artist ... Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2006517 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 17:08:47 +0100 2006517 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1999171&cid=t_99417_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FxKnhGB_IqQQ%2F Just a reminder that Cyber Monday is here.  Check out this list of shopping ideas from the b5media Lifestyles and Health/Wellness bloggers.  They’ve compiled a Virtual Mall of items you can shop for those special Christmas gifts. Alzheimer’s Notes and my other blogs are participating with their shopping lists.   So, you can sit right at home, click on your keyboard and get your shopping done without battling crowds or weather. Enjoy! (Jomashop  image) Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Christmas shopping, Cyber Monday, gifts, holiday shopping, shopping, virtual mallShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1999171 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:00:26 +0100 1999171 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1999264&cid=t_99417_134_f&fid=36049&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FDiabetesNotes%2F%7E3%2Fob4VGwerZcw%2F This year bloggers from around b5media’s Lifestyles, Health and Wellness channels are giving readers a special surprise. We’ve created a virtual mall to help ease the anxiety of shopping for those on your Christmas list who may be a little more difficult to buy for. Stop by Kettle and Cup and select your favorite hot beverage, kick back and browse this years Holiday Gift Guide Shopping Extravaganza. Cherie from Career and Kids has the perfect list for the business woman/working parent. Mary Emma from One Book Two Book shares a suggest shopping list for the avid reader and artist on your list. Everyone knows what to get a jewelry lover - but do you know what to get one who loves to make jewelry? Cyndi at Jewelry and Beading has the answer! Cherie at Diabetes Notes shares gift i... Diabetes Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1999264 Sat, 29 Nov 2008 23:44:11 +0100 1999264 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1997162&cid=t_99417_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Faspergers-gift-ideas%2F So with the holidays coming up many people are going to go Christmas shopping - and as most people know people with Aspergers always are very interested in at least one topic, but there are also some other things you can get to help people with Aspergers day-to-day.  I started this list to hopefully help [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1997162 Sat, 29 Nov 2008 11:31:27 +0100 1997162 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1996452&cid=t_99417_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F_WSQozVGcJ4%2F                                                                                                                                              Bloggers from around b5media’s Lifestyles, Health and Wellness channels are giving readers a special surprise. We’ve created a virtual mall to help ease the anxiety of shopping for those on your Christmas list who may be a little more difficult to buy for.   Stop by Kettle and Cup and select your favorite hot beverage, kick back and browse this years Holiday Gift Guide Shopping Extravaganza.  Cherie from Career and Kids has the perfect list for the business woman/working parent. Mary Emma from One Bo... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1996452 Fri, 28 Nov 2008 19:07:00 +0100 1996452 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1984976&cid=t_99417_134_f&fid=35137&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdiabetesupdate.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F11%2Fanother-great-gift-idea.html I was banging around the kitchen yesterday and, as I often do, I threw something on my food scale to see how large it was, only to realize that I'd forgotten to list the food scale on my list of useful gifts for people with diabetes.The food scale is a wonderful, and very affordable, gift that would be appropriate for anyone with diabetes and anyone who is working on weight-related issues.Here's the one I use: Escali Primo Digital Multifunctional Scale. I've used mine for three years and have had zero problems with it. For someone who is trying to lose weight, the food scale might be the difference between endless stall and reaching goal. For someone who has been trying to make fast-acting insulin work at meal times, it might be the difference between unexpected highs or lows and normal bl... Diabetes Update blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1984976 Mon, 24 Nov 2008 14:19:00 +0100 1984976 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1982192&cid=t_99417_177_f&fid=38134&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbabybound.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F11%2F22%2Fbabybounds-top-10err-11-wishes-for-christmas%2F To wake up 40 pounds lighter with the boobs of a teenager and wrinkle free skin Sandy to bring me my slippers on command - sans slobber - and then take herself out only after feeding, bathing, and grooming herself.  It would be an over the top bonus if she could feed the cat too. Mark to be upgraded with the “yes dear, whatever you want” feature and the grooming habits to make any gay man proud. $100,165.00.  (the $165 is for the massage that will have been booked for me) My very own personal assistant that will take over all work, bills, laundry and doctor apts.  Leaving me with only cleaning, organizing and planning to take care of.  O and sex.  That’s still mine. The one and only gravity reversing machine that targets woman’s saddle bags, turkey neck an... B a b y B o u n d blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1982192 Sun, 23 Nov 2008 00:16:56 +0100 1982192 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1980932&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=35302&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FWhitePebble%2F%7E3%2F460774421%2F To stay happy for cheap. This is a good blog to read. I mean, hey, we’re all whiners at some point, right? (Or maybe it’s just me.) Do something nice for someone else and don’t tell them or anyone else. EconoWhiner: Today’s Tip: Try Janie’s Top Ten to Save Money, Get Happy. Copyright © 2008 white pebble. This Feed is for personal non-commercial use only. If you are not reading this material in your news aggregator, the site you are looking at is guilty of copyright infringement. Please contact legal@www.white-pebble.net so we can take legal action immediately.Plugin by Taragana Technorati Tags: anonymous, gifts, thrift (Source: white pebble) white pebble blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1980932 Fri, 21 Nov 2008 13:49:35 +0100 1980932 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1939609&cid=t_99417_134_f&fid=36049&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FDiabetesNotes%2F%7E3%2FulrTkNNLj7I%2F var iamInit = function() {try{initIamServingHandler(420,633,241425,"http://cdn.pis.picapp.com/IamProd/Resources/Css/css2.css")}catch(ex){}}() Need a few items for your holiday shopping list? The American Diabetes Association is having a sale over at its site. If you purchase $75 worth of items before November 9th, you get a free serenity candle. Use the code FREEGIFT at checkout. They’ve got quite a few really nice things. One is this happiness candle. I love words and candles and inspiration, and this one covers all three! I may also purchase this digital photo ornament. What a cool thing! How neat to have photos of your loved ones displayed right on the tree. If you buy something, be sure to tell me about it or comment here. Remember, your purchases help support the race for a c... Diabetes Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1939609 Thu, 06 Nov 2008 22:32:38 +0100 1939609 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1911655&cid=t_99417_136_f&fid=36032&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.healthtalk.com%2Fbreast-cancer%2Flife-with-breast-cancer%2Fwhat-to-buy-someone-going-through-breast-cancer%2F What is the best gift to give someone who has just been newly diagnosed with breast cancer? Flowers usually work for everybody. A precious friend sent flowers as soon as I told her about the diagnosis. My sister–in-law sent them to my house as soon as I got home from surgery. While most women think that spending money on something that will not last is a waste, Dr. Phil listed smelling flowers among one of the best ways to fight stress; it causes you to stop and take a deep breath. I love flowers, and they are appropriate for someone home from surgery and limited in mobility, but I wouldn’t suggest flowers for anyone undergoing chemotherapy as some smells can increase nausea. To this day, I cannot buy particular scented hand soap because the smell seemed too intense and triggered nause... Life with Breast Cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1911655 Mon, 27 Oct 2008 23:38:13 +0100 1911655 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1901507&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F10%2Ffree-samples-drug-reps-last-great-hope.html "As of Jan 1 2009, pharmaceutical reps will no longer be permitted to deliver any marketing materials to [healthcare professionals]. This makes samples our only real form of in-office marketing," according to Chris Nibe, a "Sales Specialist" employed by Daiichi-Sankyo.Nibe made this comment yesterday at ExL Pharma's 4th Annual Pharmaceutical Sampling Strategies & Alternatives conference in Philadelphia, PA. I attended this meeting as a guest of ExL Pharma and Media Partner who helped ExL Pharma promote the conference.Of course, these were the personal opinions of Nibe and not Daiichi-Sankyo, which was "not responsible for the content, opinions or research conducted to complete [Nibe's] presentation. Nibe claimed, however, that his "presentation [represents] the views and opinions of He... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1901507 Wed, 22 Oct 2008 12:08:00 +0100 1901507 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1889091&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F425091070%2F The doctors’ group, which boasts 12,000 members, has joined a growing number of academic medical centers, professional societies and legislators that have decided gifts from the pharmaceutical industry are questionable, if not unacceptable forms of influence. The Wisconsin Medical Society adopted a policy on October 11 that says: “Physicians shall accept no gifts from any provider of products that they prescribe to their patients such as personal items, office supplies, food, travel and time costs, or payment for participation in online continuing medical education. A complete ban eases the burdens of compliance, biased decision making, and patient distrust.” This is the complete policy, which was disclosed this past Thursday. In a statement, WMS president Steven Bergin s... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1889091 Sun, 19 Oct 2008 02:21:44 +0100 1889091 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1844704&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F10%2Fpharma-dollars-pounds-euros-are.html I am beginning to believe that in countries like the UK, where direct-to-consumer (DTC) advertising is not permitted, pharmaceutical companies have used the bundles of dough they save by not advertising on the tellie to manipulate public opinion in other, more creative and consumer-centric ways. Such as creating and funding so-called "grassroot" patient organizations that lobby and promote on behalf of their donors.The most recent example of this is the attacks by patient groups on the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (Nice) over decisions to restrict access to drugs on UK's National Health Service (NHS) formulary (NHS is like Medicare in the US, except it covers all UK citizens). The rising tide of protest over the refusal by the NHS to provide expensive drugs for cancer and oth... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1844704 Thu, 02 Oct 2008 10:55:00 +0100 1844704 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1826206&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F401438428%2F In doing so, Lilly becomes the first drugmaker to report how much money is paid to individual docs for consulting, speeches and other activities, the Associated Press reports. The move comes four months after Lilly decided to support a watered-down version of the Physicians Payments Sunshine Act, which would establish a national registry of such payments by drug and device makers (back story). The disclosure will begin in the second half of 2009, and cover payments made in the first half of the year, but Lilly won’t report payments from 2008 or earlier, noting the Sunshine Act doesn’t require such disclosure. Later on, Lilly will expand disclosure to include travel, gifts and entertainment, which the legislation would require to be made public. For now, Lilly will create an Int... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1826206 Wed, 24 Sep 2008 04:19:15 +0100 1826206 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1809936&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F396271679%2F Two mental health advocacy groups plan to lobby lawmakers for more transparency in the relationship between Vermont’s medical field and the pharmaceutical industry, The Rutland Herald reports. Two months ago, the Vermont Attorney General’s Office issued its annual report on gifts and donations from drugmakers to Vermont docs and medical professionals, but critics say the report is incomplete and hard to access. Ken Libertoff, who heads the Vermont Association for Mental Health, argues a trade secret clause in state law allows some docs to mask the amount of money they receive. The report showed that Vermont doctors received $3.1 million in gifts and donations from the pharmaceutical and medical industry - an increase of 33 percent over the previous year. But some info is not in... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1809936 Thu, 18 Sep 2008 14:49:42 +0100 1809936 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1704715&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F08%2Ffriendly-pharma-sales-reps-earn-more.html Did you know that the average pharmaceutical sales rep earned $94,200 in total compensation in 2007, compared with $87,500 in 2006? This was an estimate made by the National Association of Pharmaceutical Sales Representatives (NAPSRx; see "PHARMACEUTICAL SALES COMPENSATION OUTLOOK FOR 2008").And, according to NAPSRx, the average pharma sales rep is working LESS for that increased income! According to NAPSRx, sales reps are now expected to make 8 calls a day, down from nine, "which is surprising," says NAPSRx.NAPSRx has an explanation: "This change probably means that pharmaceutical companies are being more realistic in their expectations as they are emphasizing the need for quality interaction with physicians."I give 'em kudos for being able to use "realistic" and "pharmaceutical companies... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1704715 Wed, 13 Aug 2008 11:52:00 +0100 1704715 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1700839&cid=t_99417_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2Fbmyp2WB2IBM%2F The Alzheimer’s Disease Center at UCLA’s Department of Neurology has been been renamed Mary S. Easton Center for Alzheimer’s Disease Research following a $10 donation by Jim Easton, a a UCLA alumnus and longtime benefactor of the university. Jim’s mother, Mary, died from Alzheimer’s disease. The generous donation will allow support research in the following areas… Investigation of the molecular structure of the toxic protein that accumulates in the brain in Alzheimer’s disease. Studies of the molecular interactions that make the protein involved in Alzheimer’s toxic. Characterization of and intervention for Alzheimer’s in genetically engineered mouse models. Studies involving familial Alzheimer’s patients. Genetic studies and ser... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1700839 Wed, 13 Aug 2008 08:47:04 +0100 1700839 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1689196&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F358486494%2F Last week, the Massachusetts state legislature passed a compromise version of the Health Care Cost and Quality act, a controversial bill that angered drugmakers and biotechs with an initial effort to greatly restrict interaction between industry and doctors, such as an outright ban on gifts. (Here it is). The gift ban didn’t survive the compromise, but the bill would create an academic detailing program to provide unbiased information to prescribers; requires drugmakers to disclose payments to health care providers valued at $50 or more; directs the state’s Department of Public Health to establish regulations on marketing, using the industry’s own code as a minimum standard (so, this means no branded items, such as mugs and pens; limits on meals, gifts and travel support). The gi... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1689196 Thu, 07 Aug 2008 15:11:34 +0100 1689196 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1622144&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F07%2Fis-this-permitted-under-new-code-of.html I'm getting some pretty good responses to my Online Survey regarding PhRMA's New Code of Interactions with Health Professionals. See and take the survey here.Results of this survey will be used to inform an ongoing Pharma Marketing Roundtable discussion, which you may join. This discussion and survey results will be summarized in an issue of Pharma Marketing News.Your comments are confidential (anonymous) unless you specifically provide your contact information at the end of the survey and allow us to attribute comments to you personallyThe survey asks some serious questions (see preview here). One question, however, was thrown in just for fun. It asked: Can you can think up a scenario that may need to be reviewed by PhRMA to determine if it IS or IS NOT permissible under the new guideline... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1622144 Mon, 14 Jul 2008 14:09:00 +0100 1622144 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1616214&cid=t_99417_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F332784719%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Christmas in July has become a popular event, whether you’re doing crafts, desiring an outing to a holiday shop (they’ve become very popular and often carry many other craft items), or simply want to start preparing early so your life doesn’t become too frantic in December with balancing caregiving responsibilities with family activities. At my Quilting and Patchwork blog, I’ve been participating in a Christmas in July series with other bloggers, posting something about the holiday season every few days.  Here are some of the posts if you’d like to check them out for ideas and information. 13 Holiday Recipes for Quilters to Enjoy 7 Quilted Christmas Gift Projects for Youngsters Quilters, What Colors for Christmas? 5 Christmas in July Ideas... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1616214 Fri, 11 Jul 2008 15:49:28 +0100 1616214 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1605915&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F07%2Fwhats-your-opinion-of-phrmas-new-code.html Today, the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) Board of Directors adopted measures to enhance the PhRMA Code on Interactions with Healthcare Professionals.Among its changes, the revised Code (learn more here):Prohibits distribution of non-educational items (such as pens, mugs and other "reminder" objects typically adorned with a company or product logo) to healthcare providers and their staff. The Code acknowledges that such items, even though of minimal value, "may foster misperceptions that company interactions with healthcare professionals are not based on informing them about medical and scientific issues."Regarding CME, the new code specifically states that a pharmaceutical company should separate its CME grant-making functions from its sales and marketing dep... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1605915 Thu, 10 Jul 2008 15:41:00 +0100 1605915 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1560843&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F07%2Fif-doctors-like-nascar-drivers-wore.html I found this cartoon in the current issue of New Yorker Magazine:Come to think of it, this might be a good way for doctors to supplement their incomes AND it would be transparent to patients from which companies their doctors received gifts. (Source: Pharma Marketing Blog) Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1560843 Tue, 01 Jul 2008 18:23:00 +0100 1560843 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1526774&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F314727162%2F A majority of Americans - 68 percent - support legislation to require drugmakers to disclose gifts and payments to docs, according to a new survey by the Prescription Project. Americans also disapprove of many types of gifts and payments to docs, support legislation that would allow clinical experts to provide unbiased drug info to doc in the form of academic detailing, and think pharma has a moderate to extremely large influence on prescribing patterns by docs. Other findings: 52 percent say accepting gifts from pharma influences how docs make prescribing decisions and another 26 percent believe gifts have a moderate influence. 86 percent believe free dinners should not be allowed; 80 percent believe speaking fees shouldn’t allowed; 78 percent believe free lunches at the office shou... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1526774 Wed, 18 Jun 2008 16:08:25 +0100 1526774 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1502742&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F307986757%2F As Massachusetts contemplates telling pharma that gifts to docs should be a no-no, a Boston TV station invites Danny Carlat, a psychiatrist and medical gadfly, and Tom Stossel, of Brigham and Women’s Hospital, to debate the ins and outs. Stossel, who wrote critcized the proposed legislation in a recent editorial in The Boston Herald, calls the idea ‘draconian,’ and says ‘if I never see another Pfizer mug, I’m not going to worry about it.’ Carlat, meanwhile, says that ‘gifts is another word for bribes.’ (Source: Pharmalot) Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1502742 Mon, 09 Jun 2008 12:27:17 +0100 1502742 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1488707&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F302901981%2F At the Lilly booth, the docs were lining up 15 deep for a free taste of frozen yogurt, except docs from Minnesota. For the third year in a row, the drugmaker posted a sign saying there would be food or drink given to docs from the Land of 10,000 Lakes “in order to comply with Minnesota statutes,” Dow Jones writes. In fact, New York government employees were subject to the same treatment. Across the aisle, Novartis was giving away soapstone bowls carved in Kenya as part of its support of a non-profit group that promotes economic growth in developing regions. But again, there was a sign, saying Minnesota docs, members of a Medicaid committee and state and federal employees “may be subjected to restrictions on acceptance of food, beverages or items,” the wire reports. ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1488707 Mon, 02 Jun 2008 10:50:47 +0100 1488707 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1472698&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F299034474%2F The revised version of a US Senate bill that requires drugmakers to report gifts and donations to the medical field would undermine a stronger Vermont law if passed, according to state officials and advocacy groups, The Rutland Herald reports. The Physicians Payments Sunshine Act would require drugmakers to disclose gifts, payments, travel expenses and other financial donations to docs. But the reporting threshold under the proposed federal law is $500 - much higher than the $25 threshold found in a similar Vermont law passed five years ago. If passed, the federal bill would preempt the state law. “Vermont was the first state to enact a law requiring that these payments be made public,” Assistant Attorney General Julie Brille tells the paper. “We’ve been doing this ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1472698 Tue, 27 May 2008 11:32:27 +0100 1472698 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1463901&cid=t_99417_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F296075184%2F Guest Post by Katelyn from Stamping Mad. I had a lot of fun with last year’s fat book and charm bracelet swaps, even though they didn’t raise as much as I hoped they would for Alzheimer’s research. So, this year, I was thinking to do something a bit different. I want to create a zine (a type of magazine) called “A Portrait of Alzheimer’s” and am looking for people to make art that fits this theme to include in the zine. Since you can just take a good, high resolution photo for me instead of sending in original art, it should be less costly for everyone to do. Of course, all net proceeds from zine sales will be donated to the Alzheimer’s Foundation at Alz.org. Ideas for art to include in the zine are: Poetry Photos (please include a signed model release for any photos that in... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1463901 Thu, 22 May 2008 20:28:48 +0100 1463901 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1437093&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F288692424%2F When three of the state’s politicians, led by Governor Deval Patrick, visit a major biotech conference in San Diego next month, they’re likely to receive a cool reception. They hope to use a $1 billion initiative to lure biotechs to Massachusetts, but biotechs are upset over a provision in bill aimed at controlling health care costs that also would ban industry from giving docs any kind of gift, the Associated Press writes. “Strictly interpreted, the `anything-of-value’ ban could bring clinical trials to a halt in Massachusetts, severely cut into necessary and mandated continuing educational studies undertaken by physicians and mean that fewer new medicines are readily available to patients in the state that is the global hub of medical innovation,” the Massac... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1437093 Mon, 12 May 2008 13:42:29 +0100 1437093 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1426772&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F285319102%2F Glaxo is playing hardball with Massachusetts. Chris Viehbacher, who heads the drugmaker’s North American pharma biz, sent what The Boston Herald calls “harshly worded letters” to three state politicans to accuse the state of a “strong anti-biopharmaceutical streak” and complains of attempts to “attack and demonize the industry.” His ire was prompted by Senate President Therese Murray’s proposed ban on gifts to docs and, in his letters, Chris suggests Glaxo may not invest as much in the state if “political developments…devalue” assets there. His missives arrive just two weeks after Glaxo agreed to pay $720 million for Sirtris Pharmaceuticals, which is based in Cambridge. The two firms employ about 115 workers in Massachusetts... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1426772 Wed, 07 May 2008 11:58:56 +0100 1426772 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1413598&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F281452200%2F The growing effort to isolate ties between industry and academia is playing out in a curious way in the editorial pages of Boston’s big newspapers. Last week, a pair of prominent academic docs lashed out at a Massachusetts bill designed to ban gifts to doctors as a way to lower prescription drug costs. The editorial in The Boston Herald, however, at first failed to note their conflicts (since then, it was updated with one disclosure). Earlier this week, yet another editorial appeared in The Boston Globe in which one of the same academic docs - Dennis Ausiello, chief of medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital - and David Shaywitz, a former research fellow at MassGen and former Merck research scientist - complained that criticism of industry-funded academic research is often unfair ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1413598 Thu, 01 May 2008 13:39:26 +0100 1413598 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1404054&cid=t_99417_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2008%2F04%2F28%2Fmedical-giveaways-to-be-banned-in-medical-schools%2F The spigot of free gifts, travel and other give aways to doctors, professors and students in the nation’s 129 medical schools is about to be closed. Gosh, I don’t know how they’ll manage… The New York Times brings us the story today: Drug and medical device companies should be banned from offering free food, gifts, travel and ghost-writing services to doctors, staff members and students in all 129 of the nation’s medical colleges, an influential college association has concluded. The proposed ban is the result of a two-year effort by the group, the Association of American Medical Colleges, to create a model policy governing interactions between the schools and industry. While schools can ignore the association’s advice, most follow its recommendation... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1404054 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 19:39:56 +0100 1404054 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1396419&cid=t_99417_109_f&fid=35677&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FBrainBasedBusiness%2F%7E3%2F276956278%2Fyesterdays_business_plan_shrin.html Only 43 women grew their great ideas into Fortune 1000 status. Most people’s unique mix of intelligences remain hidden or unused at work. In spite of people like Jack Welch … who threatened to shoot his successor over slipping profits … traditional business structures are fading fast. What do the three statements above hold in common?Yesterday’s business plan shrinks today’s brainchild. Increasingly people describe toxic workplaces and report their hatred for going to work. With big businesses a part of the past … new windows are opening to revolutionize what it means to own and run successful organizations.Traditional business plans … in contrast to brain based counterparts … fail to ask questions that support cuttin... BrainBasedBusiness blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1396419 Thu, 24 Apr 2008 15:41:05 +0100 1396419 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1392576&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F275686734%2F In formal testimony before the state’s Legislature yesterday, Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal asked for help against influence wielded by drugmakers, Legal Newsline reports. Blumenthal wants to make it illegal for drugmakers to give gifts or other benefits to docs that may influence their health care decisions despite a code of ethics the industry has already adopted. In his view, the code is meaningless and unenforceable. “As multi-national, sophisticated, profit-driven companies, drug companies spend billions of dollars on relentless direct marketing to health care providers, seeking to increase sales and profits,” he said, according to the legal news site. Both PhRMA and the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations passe... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1392576 Tue, 22 Apr 2008 23:10:59 +0100 1392576 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1380612&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F272526739%2F Last month, a bill was introduced in the legislature that would make the state the first to ban gifts to docs, which was described as a way to lower prescription drug costs. The bill would prevent reps from offering gifts and ban docs from accepting gifts of any kind. And the ban would extend to a doc’s staff and family members, although samples could be distributed, as long as the samples are for the exclusive use of patients. Now, a couple of prominent docs are firing back. In an editorial in The Boston Herald, they write “For the Legislature even to deliberate passing a law imposing fines up to $5,000 and jail sentences up to two years on practicing physicians if they accept a pen, pad of paper or slice of pizza from a company representative reflects the success that critics hos... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1380612 Fri, 18 Apr 2008 01:32:56 +0100 1380612 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1366897&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F268344544%2F The Golden State passed a bill four years ago that made binding PhRMA’s marketing guidelines and requires drugmakers to set an upper limit on the dollar value of gifts they could give to a doc in a given year. To prove compliance, drugmakers must provide a plan, choose and abide by annual per-doctor gift limits, and post the info on their web sites declaring they’re in compliance. But in a new report, Calpirg, a consumer advocacy group, claims that the limits are riddled with exceptions, and that some drugmakers have evaded even the least restrictive limits on their marketing. “These requirements took effect on July 1, 2005,” writes CalPirg. “Nearly three years later, because of SB 1765, we now have a better sense of the scope of the problem of drug company m... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1366897 Fri, 11 Apr 2008 12:37:16 +0100 1366897 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1319358&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F03%2Freporting-gifts-to-physicians-on-this-i.html There's now a Senate and House of Representatives version of the "Physician Payment Sunshine Act," which would require pharmaceutical companies to post in electronic format (ie, Web site) every gift or payment over $25 made to a physician (and name, address, etc. of the physician). Not just gifts given directly by drug reps, but also "through an agent, subsidiary, or other third party" and not just directly to physicians, but also "an entity that a physician is employed by, has tenure with, or has a significant ownership interest in; or to a covered organization in which a physician has a significant professional membership interest..."This "sunshine" bill also has a few dark clouds associated with it.I have to agree with Bob Ehrlich of DTC Perspectives that "this bill seems overly onerous... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1319358 Fri, 21 Mar 2008 11:24:00 +0100 1319358 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1236949&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F02%2Fpens-put-brands-in-docs-brains-and.html Those pens that pharmaceutical sales reps hand out to physicians are often cited as examples of gifts to physicians that are meant to increase physician loyalty to the drug brand that made the gift.Defenders of free gifts to physicians bristle at the notion that such gifts could influence the prescribing habits of physicians. Nevertheless, there is a big industry that caters to the needs of gift giving pharma companies as illustrated in this full-page ad from a recent issue of Pharmaceutical Executive (PE) Magazine:Obviously, Senator Pen, which produced and paid for this ad, must thinkpens can influence physicians and this ad will return a positive ROI.The ad effectively makes ties together "Put(ting) your brand in their hands" and "Put(ting) your brand in their heads." If the ad imagery a... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1236949 Sat, 16 Feb 2008 18:44:00 +0100 1236949 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1231856&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F02%2Fprofessors-straw-man-free-lunch-for.html According to a Wikipedia entry: "A straw man argument is an informal fallacy based on misrepresentation of an opponent's position. To 'set up a straw man' or 'set up a straw man argument' is to create a position that is easy to refute and attribute that position to the opponent. "Defenders of drug industry marketing practices often use this technique to counteract opponents' arguments against certain pharma marketing practices.Such is the case of Emory University Professor Paul H. Rubin's argument that "there's nothing wrong with letting drug reps schmooze with doctors," and specifically nothing wrong with sales reps providing free lunches to doctors (see his article in Forbes: "A Free Lunch").Professor Rubin previously was Chief Advertising Economist at the Federal Trade Commission and Ch... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1231856 Thu, 14 Feb 2008 12:07:00 +0100 1231856 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1161017&cid=t_99417_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F01%2Fduluth-bans-tchotchkes-thats-snot-funny.html According to a report in the The Minneapolis Star-Tribune, a Duluth-based health system is declaring a ban on drug-logo freebies, no matter how small. That includes, according to the report, a disembodied stuffed nose from Allegra that exclaims, "That's snot funny!"I guess the pharmaceutical industry also doesn't find it funny that more and more hospitals and health systems are banning freebies (aka tchotchkes) that their sales reps give to physicians. See also "Minnesota Limit on Gifts to Doctors May Catch On."Pharmaceutical companies claim that many "freebies" are actually educational. Perhaps the "snot funny" nose with the Allegra logo on it is educational; after all, it coveys an important message that allergies are not funny and may a major cause of the dreaded Runny Nose Syndrome (RN... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1161017 Fri, 18 Jan 2008 13:47:00 +0100 1161017 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1127390&cid=t_99417_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F210443297%2F Check out this clock created in Holland that is used to add structure in a user friendly way. Ideal for anyone with memory and confusion issues. The Clockweisser website, unfortunately, is in dutch but the video has english subtitles. http://www.clockweisser.com/index.html Share This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1127390 Thu, 03 Jan 2008 11:06:09 +0100 1127390