You can use your imagination here, but imagine being able to work with images and other medical information with this "hands on" interaction..BD
Deadline Passes Without New Deal Between United Healthcare, WakeMed :: WRAL.com
Another United Health Care story...interesting that the hospital contracts give Blue Cross a bigger cost break, and somewhat makes you wonder how much bargaining power a single individual with no health insurance really has..BD
WakeMed says prices are based on how much business an insurer brings into the hospital and that it cannot afford to give UnitedHealthcare a better deal.
Deadline Passes Without New Deal Between United Healthcare, WakeMed :: WRAL.com
WakeMed says prices are based on how much business an insurer brings into the hospital and that it cannot afford to give UnitedHealthcare a better deal.
Deadline Passes Without New Deal Between United Healthcare, WakeMed :: WRAL.com
More Consumers Attempt To Bargain For Lower Medical Care Prices
More Consumers Attempt To Bargain For Lower Medical Care Prices: "Consumers don't know this.' With 32 states requiring that hospitals provide pricing information to the public, consumers are gaining access to 'rudimentary information,' the Times reports. However, this information is not always useful to consumers because hospitals do not have to disclose the discounted rates they provide to insurers, which can vary greatly by insurer. "
Actavis Receives Approval For Ranitidine Syrup In The U.S.
Actavis Receives Approval For Ranitidine Syrup In The U.S.: "
Actavis U.S., the United States manufacturing and marketing division of the international generic pharmaceuticals company Actavis Group (ICEX: ACT), today announced that it has received approval from the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) to market Ranitidine Oral Solution USP. Due to Actavis's first-to-file status, the FDA has granted Actavis a 180-day marketing exclusivity that will commence with the distribution of the product in the coming weeks."
Actavis U.S., the United States manufacturing and marketing division of the international generic pharmaceuticals company Actavis Group (ICEX: ACT), today announced that it has received approval from the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) to market Ranitidine Oral Solution USP. Due to Actavis's first-to-file status, the FDA has granted Actavis a 180-day marketing exclusivity that will commence with the distribution of the product in the coming weeks."
FDA Approves Astellas' Vaprisol(R) For The Treatment Of Hypervolemic Hyponatremia
FDA Approves Astellas' Vaprisol(R) For The Treatment Of Hypervolemic Hyponatremia
Astellas Pharma US, Inc. today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Vaprisol(R) (conivaptan hydrochloride injection), an arginine vasopressin (AVP) receptor antagonist, for the intravenous treatment of hypervolemic hyponatremia in hospitalized patients. Vaprisol, discovered and developed by Astellas, is the first drug specifically indicated for the treatment of both euvolemic and hypervolemic hyponatremia, potentially life-threatening conditions that occur when the body's blood sodium level falls significantly below normal. Vaprisol was approved by the FDA as a treatment for euvolemic hyponatremia in December 2005, and has been marketed by Astellas since April 2006.
Astellas Pharma US, Inc. today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Vaprisol(R) (conivaptan hydrochloride injection), an arginine vasopressin (AVP) receptor antagonist, for the intravenous treatment of hypervolemic hyponatremia in hospitalized patients. Vaprisol, discovered and developed by Astellas, is the first drug specifically indicated for the treatment of both euvolemic and hypervolemic hyponatremia, potentially life-threatening conditions that occur when the body's blood sodium level falls significantly below normal. Vaprisol was approved by the FDA as a treatment for euvolemic hyponatremia in December 2005, and has been marketed by Astellas since April 2006.
AFLAC SCAM
Watch out for this scam. Police are urging visitors to the city center to be especially vigilant for a new gang operating a slick routine that is aimed at stealing from unwary persons. They say that the gang usually comprises four members, one adult and three cute little ones.
While the three younger ones, all appearing sweet and innocent, divert their "mark" with a show of friendliness and fun, the fourth---the eldest---sneaks in from behind the person's back to expertly rifle undetected through his or her pockets and bags for any valuables being carried. The below picture, taken by an alert passerby using a cell phone, shows the gang in operation.
Why use an RSS Feed Program - It Saves Time, Your Time
RSS stands for Real Simple Syndication. I won't go into full detail here on the origin and how RSS has become the standard today for businesses getting their information as this is so well documented on other sites, including Medicare, who uses RSS quite extensively. We all know what a nightmare it can be to navigate the site, so why not take advantage of the RSS feeds they offer to keep updated on the items you need.
As the Internet has evolved with the amount of information available today, we have evolved past the standard of "saving a site as a favorite" to get the news we need today. Yes, you can still save a site as a favorite and this is still a good thing to do, but ask yourself this one questions, "Do I have time to click and check for updates on 20 or more sites a day to get the updated news I want?" Chances are you will probably say no. I know I do not have the time and prefer a process that will automate news items for me. In other words, using an RSS feed is pretty much a "no brainer" for me to receive the timely information I need.
Any website that offers news, including blogging services will usually have a link to subscribe. Once you have subscribed to this page you will receive an update when the page is updated, in other words, one click.
RSS Feed software will give you the title of the article along with a few lines previewing the content, and from there you can decide whether or not you want to read the entire article, and if not, simply delete.
RSS Feed software can help you with preferences too. There are a couple links to a couple that I used and prefer, but there are many more available. If I have not read the article as an example, by using Attensa, it is automatically deleted as set up in my preferences, so I do not have a back log of unread articles sitting there. Attensa integrates with Outlook as well as in the browser. I-Fetch is a good alternative for a desktop/browser application for those who are not using Outlook. In a very simple browser format even Google and Yahoo have simple preferences to add pages to their RSS formats. If you work in a company network environment whereby you cannot add software, using Google or Yahoo for RSS feeds will usually work for you as they do not require any software to function. The new operating system from Microsoft, Vista, incorporates RSS feeds in the browser as well as Outlook 2007, so if you have either product you are set. Internet Explorer 7 also has RSS options. Take a look around if you have updated and look for the orange RSS Icon.
IF YOU ARE MANUALLY SIFTING THROUGH A BUNCH OF "FAVORITES" EACH DAY TO RETRIEVE THE VITAL NEWS INFORMATION YOU NEED, CONSIDER USING RSS FEEDS. YOU WILL FIND IT IS EASY TO ADD AND DELETE SUBSCRIPTIONS AND IT WILL GIVE YOU SOMETHING BACK THAT IS VERY VALUABLE - YOUR TIME AND AT THE SAME TIME GET THE NEWSWORTHY ITEMS YOU NEED!
As the Internet has evolved with the amount of information available today, we have evolved past the standard of "saving a site as a favorite" to get the news we need today. Yes, you can still save a site as a favorite and this is still a good thing to do, but ask yourself this one questions, "Do I have time to click and check for updates on 20 or more sites a day to get the updated news I want?" Chances are you will probably say no. I know I do not have the time and prefer a process that will automate news items for me. In other words, using an RSS feed is pretty much a "no brainer" for me to receive the timely information I need.
Any website that offers news, including blogging services will usually have a link to subscribe. Once you have subscribed to this page you will receive an update when the page is updated, in other words, one click.
RSS Feed software will give you the title of the article along with a few lines previewing the content, and from there you can decide whether or not you want to read the entire article, and if not, simply delete.
RSS Feed software can help you with preferences too. There are a couple links to a couple that I used and prefer, but there are many more available. If I have not read the article as an example, by using Attensa, it is automatically deleted as set up in my preferences, so I do not have a back log of unread articles sitting there. Attensa integrates with Outlook as well as in the browser. I-Fetch is a good alternative for a desktop/browser application for those who are not using Outlook. In a very simple browser format even Google and Yahoo have simple preferences to add pages to their RSS formats. If you work in a company network environment whereby you cannot add software, using Google or Yahoo for RSS feeds will usually work for you as they do not require any software to function. The new operating system from Microsoft, Vista, incorporates RSS feeds in the browser as well as Outlook 2007, so if you have either product you are set. Internet Explorer 7 also has RSS options. Take a look around if you have updated and look for the orange RSS Icon.
IF YOU ARE MANUALLY SIFTING THROUGH A BUNCH OF "FAVORITES" EACH DAY TO RETRIEVE THE VITAL NEWS INFORMATION YOU NEED, CONSIDER USING RSS FEEDS. YOU WILL FIND IT IS EASY TO ADD AND DELETE SUBSCRIPTIONS AND IT WILL GIVE YOU SOMETHING BACK THAT IS VERY VALUABLE - YOUR TIME AND AT THE SAME TIME GET THE NEWSWORTHY ITEMS YOU NEED!
Records of 2,000 Westerly Hospital patients posted online - Boston.com
Security continues to be a strong issue to be addressed....
Records of 2,000 Westerly Hospital patients posted online - Boston.com: "Kinney said there was a breach in the hospital's computer database system that allowed hackers to access the information. The hospital plans to send a letter to every affected patient as soon as possible, Kinney said."
Records of 2,000 Westerly Hospital patients posted online - Boston.com: "Kinney said there was a breach in the hospital's computer database system that allowed hackers to access the information. The hospital plans to send a letter to every affected patient as soon as possible, Kinney said."
The Tablet PC Education Blog: Autism and a Tablet PC
The Tablet PC Education Blog: Autism and a Tablet PC
A tutor asked the other day what Tablet PC might work best for a student with autism to use while attending a regular class. Wow, that brought back memories. In my second year of teaching, i had a fifth grader that fit the same description. I didn't know enough then to treat him any differently from any of the other 35 students in the room.
A second option we suggested is a TabletKiosk eo. It's smaller and lighter to tote around, with the touch and pen functions, if ultra mobility helps a student.
A tutor asked the other day what Tablet PC might work best for a student with autism to use while attending a regular class. Wow, that brought back memories. In my second year of teaching, i had a fifth grader that fit the same description. I didn't know enough then to treat him any differently from any of the other 35 students in the room.
A second option we suggested is a TabletKiosk eo. It's smaller and lighter to tote around, with the touch and pen functions, if ultra mobility helps a student.
Coding Cues from Medical Economics
Coding Cues - Answers to your questions about... - Medical Economics: "
Yes. When you obtain an ABN for a service you perform that you don't expect Medicare to pay for, report the service with modifier –GA (waiver of liability statement on file).
Modifier –GA tells Medicare that the beneficiary signed a valid ABN and that he understands he's responsible for payment of the specific, stated service or procedure you provided if Medicare doesn't cover it. Without a valid ABN, a Medicare patient can't be held responsible for the charges Medicare won't cover."
Yes. When you obtain an ABN for a service you perform that you don't expect Medicare to pay for, report the service with modifier –GA (waiver of liability statement on file).
Modifier –GA tells Medicare that the beneficiary signed a valid ABN and that he understands he's responsible for payment of the specific, stated service or procedure you provided if Medicare doesn't cover it. Without a valid ABN, a Medicare patient can't be held responsible for the charges Medicare won't cover."
I want to make house calls for a few patients. How should I bill these visits?
Use a code from the 99341-99345 series for home services provided to a new patient or a code from the 99347-99350 series for a home visit to an established patient. Remember to use 12 as the place of service code.
A Remote Heart Monitor Fails to Impress an F.D.A. Panel - New York Times
A Remote Heart Monitor Fails to Impress an F.D.A. Panel - New York Times
The device’s manufacturer, Medtronic, has been developing wireless data-gathering technology for implanted therapeutic devices like defibrillators and insulin pumps. It aimed to make the product reviewed yesterday, a device the size of a pocket watch and known as the Chronicle implantable hemodynamic monitor, the first major implant approved solely for diagnostic monitoring.
The device’s manufacturer, Medtronic, has been developing wireless data-gathering technology for implanted therapeutic devices like defibrillators and insulin pumps. It aimed to make the product reviewed yesterday, a device the size of a pocket watch and known as the Chronicle implantable hemodynamic monitor, the first major implant approved solely for diagnostic monitoring.
FDA Approves Alpharma's KADIAN(R) New 200 Mg Strength
FDA Approves Alpharma's KADIAN(R) New 200 Mg Strength
KADIAN(R) is Alpharma's branded extended release morphine sulfate product and is currently marketed in 20 mg, 30 mg, 50 mg, 60 mg, 80 mg and 100 mg dosages. The added dosage strength is intended to assist in physicians' efforts to individualize their patient's treatments by offering more choices in managing their pain.
KADIAN(R) is Alpharma's branded extended release morphine sulfate product and is currently marketed in 20 mg, 30 mg, 50 mg, 60 mg, 80 mg and 100 mg dosages. The added dosage strength is intended to assist in physicians' efforts to individualize their patient's treatments by offering more choices in managing their pain.
Coastal Family Health Center Rises From the Ashes of Hurricane Katrina
Coastal Family Health Center Rises From the Ashes of Hurricane Katrina
Does it take a hurricane to convince "old dogs to learn new tricks"?
If new technology had been used prior to the hurricane, the patients records could have been backed up to a remote location, and now the rebuilding process is taking place. The good news is that all new records will be paperless and the loss of "paper" records, at least in this community will be a thing of the past. BD
Joe Dawsey, CEO Coastal Family Health, credits participation in the Katrina Phoenix Project and software provided by Companion Technologies as an instrumental part of its recovery plan. “Coastal lost over 60,000 medical records as a result of the hurricane,” said Dawsey. “Implementing Companion's EMR system will serve as a means to prevent future devastation should another disaster occur as well as improve the overall healthcare delivery to Coastal residents."
Coastal lost all its patient medical records due to flood damage and had no practice management and billing system in place.
Does it take a hurricane to convince "old dogs to learn new tricks"?
If new technology had been used prior to the hurricane, the patients records could have been backed up to a remote location, and now the rebuilding process is taking place. The good news is that all new records will be paperless and the loss of "paper" records, at least in this community will be a thing of the past. BD
Joe Dawsey, CEO Coastal Family Health, credits participation in the Katrina Phoenix Project and software provided by Companion Technologies as an instrumental part of its recovery plan. “Coastal lost over 60,000 medical records as a result of the hurricane,” said Dawsey. “Implementing Companion's EMR system will serve as a means to prevent future devastation should another disaster occur as well as improve the overall healthcare delivery to Coastal residents."
Coastal lost all its patient medical records due to flood damage and had no practice management and billing system in place.
OneNote for Office 2007 - Watch One Note in Action
OneNote for Office 2007 | Laura Foy | Channel 10
This is a great video going over the high points of One Note. I use One Note every day to keep client issues together. The integration with Outlook is phenomenal as I have everything relative to a client issue in one place. I have been using One Note for many years and it is so simple to query notes from a year ago and have them available for a meeting with a client. Sending to and from One Note is also great as I can be in a meeting and email all participants the copies of the notes I just took during the meeting. BD
Gather your information in one place, find what you need fast, and share your notes and information. Get started with the new One Note.
For physicians just getting started with a tablet, the Ablet Factory has some very affordable "starter" kits if you are not ready for an enterprise EMR and later down the road this information can be transferred to another system. Information can be shared with another MD using One Note. Very much worth taking a look.
http://www.abletfactory.com/products.htm
This is a great video going over the high points of One Note. I use One Note every day to keep client issues together. The integration with Outlook is phenomenal as I have everything relative to a client issue in one place. I have been using One Note for many years and it is so simple to query notes from a year ago and have them available for a meeting with a client. Sending to and from One Note is also great as I can be in a meeting and email all participants the copies of the notes I just took during the meeting. BD
Gather your information in one place, find what you need fast, and share your notes and information. Get started with the new One Note.
For physicians just getting started with a tablet, the Ablet Factory has some very affordable "starter" kits if you are not ready for an enterprise EMR and later down the road this information can be transferred to another system. Information can be shared with another MD using One Note. Very much worth taking a look.
http://www.abletfactory.com/products.htm
The Patient is handed the tablet...
APP.COM - END OF THE PAPER TRAIL | Asbury Park Press Online
I really happen to like this story as it shows even a novice, a patient who has never used a tablet before, had no issues with adding his patient information. The physician is really seeing his return on investment here as this is also saving him or a member of his staff all the duplicate entry efforts if this had been done on paper. This physician and the patient are both enjoying the tablet and working towards better health care. Software can be created to make this work with an EMR. The patient was also relieved in not having to fill out a large chunk of paperwork as well! BD
I really happen to like this story as it shows even a novice, a patient who has never used a tablet before, had no issues with adding his patient information. The physician is really seeing his return on investment here as this is also saving him or a member of his staff all the duplicate entry efforts if this had been done on paper. This physician and the patient are both enjoying the tablet and working towards better health care. Software can be created to make this work with an EMR. The patient was also relieved in not having to fill out a large chunk of paperwork as well! BD
So, when he walked into Dr. Mukaram Gazi's office in Lakewood, he expected to be asked to fill out extensive paperwork with a pen.
Instead, he was handed a tablet PC and a stylus — initiating an administrative technology that allows electronic prescribing of medications and makes for a near-paperless world for physician.
"It is really very easy to do," said Rotondo, tapping away on the small computer screen. "You just follow the directions and answer the questions. If a new system like this gets medications to you quickly and helps save lives, I am all for it."
Industry Exec at HIMMs adds humor to the role of hospital CIOs and advice for CEOs
Modern Healthcare Online
"If you're a CIO, this will be a particularly painful next hour," Garets promised.
On the topic of benchmarking, Garets said CEOs want to compare their organization to its competitors, but Garets suggested that CIOs should not compare their hospital with other healthcare operations—because "what do they know?" Instead, they should compare their organization with companies in other industries known for their effective use of IT—like Fed Ex and Disney.
Glaser mentioned how FedEx customers can track where their package is and now, with the proper IT system, healthcare consumers can track where their laboratory specimen is.
In "the Art of Stalling" segment, Glaser gave tips on how to prevent a CEO's bad idea from becoming reality while making it look you're working on it.
"If you're a CIO, this will be a particularly painful next hour," Garets promised.
On the topic of benchmarking, Garets said CEOs want to compare their organization to its competitors, but Garets suggested that CIOs should not compare their hospital with other healthcare operations—because "what do they know?" Instead, they should compare their organization with companies in other industries known for their effective use of IT—like Fed Ex and Disney.
Glaser mentioned how FedEx customers can track where their package is and now, with the proper IT system, healthcare consumers can track where their laboratory specimen is.
In "the Art of Stalling" segment, Glaser gave tips on how to prevent a CEO's bad idea from becoming reality while making it look you're working on it.
QuickBooks Contact Synch for Outlook
QuickBooks Contact Synch for Outlook
Last week I posted an article about free accounting software from Microsoft and the competition continues with Quick Books allowing synchronization for Outlook. If your version of Quick Books is 2005 or above, it looks like it will work for you, along with being current on all the latest Microsoft updates. BD
Last week I posted an article about free accounting software from Microsoft and the competition continues with Quick Books allowing synchronization for Outlook. If your version of Quick Books is 2005 or above, it looks like it will work for you, along with being current on all the latest Microsoft updates. BD
- QuickBooks 2005, 2006, and 2007 (must be installed and registered)
- Microsoft Outlook (2000, 2002, 2003, and 2007)
- Microsoft Windows XP, Windows 2000, or Windows Vista including the latest service packs. Go to http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/officeupdate/default.aspx to check for and download updates.
Neochroma mobile projector blows up cellphone screens - Engadget
Neochroma mobile projector blows up cellphone screens - Engadget
Interesting look at a new mobile phone projector. With all the information being ported to a cell phone today, this small project appears to make it possible to project to the size of a 19 inch monitor. BD
Interesting look at a new mobile phone projector. With all the information being ported to a cell phone today, this small project appears to make it possible to project to the size of a 19 inch monitor. BD
Having trouble sleeping?
More Than 20,00 People Worldwide Now Use SLEEPTRACKER® For a Better Start to the Day
Interesting new item designed by a sleep physician...BD
Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) February 28, 2007 -- Innovative Sleep Solutions' unique sleep-monitoring and wake-up device, SLEEPTRACKER®, is now helping more than 20,000 people worldwide wake up feeling refreshed. With the appearance of a standard wristwatch, SLEEPTRACKER monitors the wearer's sleep patterns to detect the best possible waking time - allowing the wearer to wake up more refreshed and alert from a light sleep stage.
SLEEPTRACKER has normal watch features including time, day, date and standard alarm settings, as well as a snooze function. It is water-resistant, has a night-glow feature and carries a one-year warranty. SLEEPTRACKER is available for $149.00 at Sleeptracker.com and has a 30-day money back guarantee.
Interesting new item designed by a sleep physician...BD
Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) February 28, 2007 -- Innovative Sleep Solutions' unique sleep-monitoring and wake-up device, SLEEPTRACKER®, is now helping more than 20,000 people worldwide wake up feeling refreshed. With the appearance of a standard wristwatch, SLEEPTRACKER monitors the wearer's sleep patterns to detect the best possible waking time - allowing the wearer to wake up more refreshed and alert from a light sleep stage.
SLEEPTRACKER has normal watch features including time, day, date and standard alarm settings, as well as a snooze function. It is water-resistant, has a night-glow feature and carries a one-year warranty. SLEEPTRACKER is available for $149.00 at Sleeptracker.com and has a 30-day money back guarantee.
Microsoft Office 2003 Apps Hit with New Crash Bugs
PC World - Microsoft Office 2003 Apps Hit with New Crash Bugs
One more warning about Word and Excel.....BD
One more warning about Word and Excel.....BD
"A remote attacker may exploit this vulnerability by presenting a malicious WMF file to a victim user," said Symantec's report on the Office 2003 flaw. "The issue is triggered when the application is used to insert the malicious file into a document."
Specially crafted WMF (Windows Metafile) image files were the root of a major attack in late 2005 and early 2006 that was launched from hundreds of malicious Web sites and compromised thousands of PCs. This bug seems to be different from the 2005/2006 vulnerability.
Attacks using either vulnerability require users to download malicious files from a Web site or open them when they arrive as e-mailed file attachments.FDA Approves Cymbalta(R) For Treatment Of Generalized Anxiety Disorder
FDA Approves Cymbalta(R) For Treatment Of Generalized Anxiety Disorder: "
Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the antidepressant Cymbalta(R) (duloxetine HCl) for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), a condition that affects more than 6.5 million American adults in a given year.(1) Because GAD presents with a variety of symptoms, it can be difficult to diagnose(2) and may have a negative impact on a person's ability to function properly in work, family and social situations.(3)"
Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the antidepressant Cymbalta(R) (duloxetine HCl) for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), a condition that affects more than 6.5 million American adults in a given year.(1) Because GAD presents with a variety of symptoms, it can be difficult to diagnose(2) and may have a negative impact on a person's ability to function properly in work, family and social situations.(3)"
MercuryNews.com | 02/26/2007 | Study: Patients favor doctors that use electronic medical records
MercuryNews.com | 02/26/2007 | Study: Patients favor doctors that use electronic medical records
NEW YORK (AP) - Doctors looking to attract new patients may want to buy an electronic medical record system because a new survey slated to be released Monday found that a majority of consumers said the technology plays a role in their selection of a physician.
The good news for doctors is that patients may offset the cost of such a purchase: Fifty-one percent of consumers said they would be willing to pay for the service if the price was reasonable.
Microsoft CEO Keynote Speaker at HIMMS
Modern Healthcare Online: "'Healthcare is the single-largest industry in the world, and yet we don’t see quite the same level of standardization in the healthcare industry that we do in the manufacturing industry,' he said. 'The needs of the providers simply have not been met.'
Making sense of the information, not just storing and retrieving it, will be the challenge of the future, one that healthcare software developers must meet.
"
"Healthcare is the single-largest industry in the world, and yet we don’t see quite the same level of standardization in the healthcare industry that we do in the manufacturing industry," he said. "The needs of the providers simply have not been met."
Making sense of the information, not just storing and retrieving it, will be the challenge of the future, one that healthcare software developers must meet.
Making sense of the information, not just storing and retrieving it, will be the challenge of the future, one that healthcare software developers must meet.
"
"Healthcare is the single-largest industry in the world, and yet we don’t see quite the same level of standardization in the healthcare industry that we do in the manufacturing industry," he said. "The needs of the providers simply have not been met."
Making sense of the information, not just storing and retrieving it, will be the challenge of the future, one that healthcare software developers must meet.
First-Time Generic Approvals: Focalin, Valtrex, Hydrodiuril
Medscape Medical News 2007. © 2007 Medscape
February 16, 2007 — The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved first-time generic formulations for dexmethylphenidate HCl tablets in the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, valacyclovir HCl tablets for the treatment of genital herpes and shingles, and hydrochlorothiazide 12.5-mg tablets for the treatment of edema and hypertension.
Generic Dexmethylphenidate HCl Tablets (Focalin) for ADHD
On January 29, the FDA approved first-time generic 2.5-, 5-, and 10-mg formulations for dexmethylphenidate HCl tablets (made by Teva Pharmaceuticals USA; brand name Focalin, made by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp).
Dexmethylphenidate tablets are indicated for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in patients aged 6 to 17 years.
Generic Valacyclovir HCl Tablets (Valtrex) for Genital Herpes, Shingles
On January 31, the FDA approved first-time generic formulations for valacyclovir HCl 500-mg and 1-g tablets (made by Ranbaxy, Inc; brand name Valtrex, made by GlaxoSmithKline).
Valacyclovir is indicated for the treatment/suppression of genital herpes in immunocompetent individuals and for the suppression of recurrent genital herpes in HIV-infected patients. It also may be used for the treatment of herpes zoster (shingles).
Generic Hydrochlorothiazide 12.5-mg Tablets (Hydrodiuril) for Edema, Hypertension
On January 23, the FDA approved a first-time generic 12.5-mg formulation for hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) tablets (made by Mylan Pharmaceuticals, Inc; brand name Hydrodiuril, discontinued by Merck and Co, Inc).
The FDA notes that although generic formulations of HCTZ 12.5-mg capsules were previously approved, the current approval represents the first for generic tablets in this strength.
HCTZ is indicated as adjunctive therapy in edema associated with congestive heart failure, hepatic cirrhosis, and corticosteroid and estrogen therapy; and for use alone or with other agents for the management of hypertension. It has also been found useful for edema due to various forms of renal dysfunction such as nephrotic syndrome, acute glomerulonephritis, and chronic renal failure.
You may need to log in for the story below.
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/552375_print
February 16, 2007 — The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved first-time generic formulations for dexmethylphenidate HCl tablets in the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, valacyclovir HCl tablets for the treatment of genital herpes and shingles, and hydrochlorothiazide 12.5-mg tablets for the treatment of edema and hypertension.
Generic Dexmethylphenidate HCl Tablets (Focalin) for ADHD
On January 29, the FDA approved first-time generic 2.5-, 5-, and 10-mg formulations for dexmethylphenidate HCl tablets (made by Teva Pharmaceuticals USA; brand name Focalin, made by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp).
Dexmethylphenidate tablets are indicated for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in patients aged 6 to 17 years.
Generic Valacyclovir HCl Tablets (Valtrex) for Genital Herpes, Shingles
On January 31, the FDA approved first-time generic formulations for valacyclovir HCl 500-mg and 1-g tablets (made by Ranbaxy, Inc; brand name Valtrex, made by GlaxoSmithKline).
Valacyclovir is indicated for the treatment/suppression of genital herpes in immunocompetent individuals and for the suppression of recurrent genital herpes in HIV-infected patients. It also may be used for the treatment of herpes zoster (shingles).
Generic Hydrochlorothiazide 12.5-mg Tablets (Hydrodiuril) for Edema, Hypertension
On January 23, the FDA approved a first-time generic 12.5-mg formulation for hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) tablets (made by Mylan Pharmaceuticals, Inc; brand name Hydrodiuril, discontinued by Merck and Co, Inc).
The FDA notes that although generic formulations of HCTZ 12.5-mg capsules were previously approved, the current approval represents the first for generic tablets in this strength.
HCTZ is indicated as adjunctive therapy in edema associated with congestive heart failure, hepatic cirrhosis, and corticosteroid and estrogen therapy; and for use alone or with other agents for the management of hypertension. It has also been found useful for edema due to various forms of renal dysfunction such as nephrotic syndrome, acute glomerulonephritis, and chronic renal failure.
You may need to log in for the story below.
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/552375_print
Microsoft Acquisition of Medstory
Microsoft Demonstrates Further Commitment to Healthcare Market With Planned Acquisition of Web Search Company: Medstory’s intuitive technology designed to improve access to health information and empower consumers to make better-informed health decisions.
The site has a nice format for searching and brings a lot of information together under one area. BD
http://www.medstory.com/Home.html
The site has a nice format for searching and brings a lot of information together under one area. BD
http://www.medstory.com/Home.html
Now featuring new search results through our Media Partner Program
Medstory is pleased to announce the launch of its new Media Partner Program, aimed at delivering the highest quality search results to our users seeking in-depth information on health and medicine.
Our inaugural Media Partners include breastcancer.org and The Wall Street Journal Online, two premier providers of health-related information on the web. We’re working closely with these partners (and others) to bring you their highest quality and most relevant search results, which generic search engines rarely uncover.
Federation of American Hospitals also have a plan for Insurance Coverage
Hospital firms outline plan for universal care - The Boston Globe: "Hospital firms outline plan for universal care
By Associated Press | February 22, 2007
WASHINGTON -- The largest hospital operators in the country say providing health insurance for all Americans can be achieved by expanding government coverage, and by giving lower-income Americans vouchers to pay for the private plan of their choice.
The strategy presented by the Federation for American Hospitals differs somewhat from other recent proposals -- including one from Wal-Mart and the largest US union -- by detailing how the public and private sectors should collaborate to provide coverage for the nation's 47 million uninsured. The plan was posted to the federation's website yesterday and will be discussed at a press conference scheduled for today."
American Federation of Hospital Members:
http://www.fah.org/membership/listing_of_facilities/state.cfm?state=ca
By Associated Press | February 22, 2007
WASHINGTON -- The largest hospital operators in the country say providing health insurance for all Americans can be achieved by expanding government coverage, and by giving lower-income Americans vouchers to pay for the private plan of their choice.
The strategy presented by the Federation for American Hospitals differs somewhat from other recent proposals -- including one from Wal-Mart and the largest US union -- by detailing how the public and private sectors should collaborate to provide coverage for the nation's 47 million uninsured. The plan was posted to the federation's website yesterday and will be discussed at a press conference scheduled for today."
American Federation of Hospital Members:
http://www.fah.org/membership/listing_of_facilities/state.cfm?state=ca
Good news for not-for-profits
Modern Healthcare Online
With the HIMMS conference this week in New Orleans, there will be many more additional news items coming forth this week as well. BD
The Internal Revenue Service may soon rule that not-for-profit hospitals can subsidize the cost of e-prescribing and electronic medical records systems for their affiliated physicians without jeopardizing the hospitals' tax-exempt status, an HHS official told several hundred physician informaticists Sunday during a pre-conference session at the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society trade show in New Orleans.
This is a horrible way to start your process, that you’re going to reduce staff," he said. "You get a lot of passive-aggressive behavior."
Parker said changing workflow often creates short-term productivity losses, so IT conversions place financial stresses on a small group or solo practice beyond the cost of the IT systems alone. Physicians shouldn’t look to IT to rescue a financially troubled practice.
"We’ve actually seen failures that have caused the practice to break up or go bankrupt," Parker said. "You have to make sure the practice is financially healthy enough to be able to stand that, at least on a 90-day implementation schedule."
With the HIMMS conference this week in New Orleans, there will be many more additional news items coming forth this week as well. BD
The Internal Revenue Service may soon rule that not-for-profit hospitals can subsidize the cost of e-prescribing and electronic medical records systems for their affiliated physicians without jeopardizing the hospitals' tax-exempt status, an HHS official told several hundred physician informaticists Sunday during a pre-conference session at the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society trade show in New Orleans.
This is a horrible way to start your process, that you’re going to reduce staff," he said. "You get a lot of passive-aggressive behavior."
Parker said changing workflow often creates short-term productivity losses, so IT conversions place financial stresses on a small group or solo practice beyond the cost of the IT systems alone. Physicians shouldn’t look to IT to rescue a financially troubled practice.
"We’ve actually seen failures that have caused the practice to break up or go bankrupt," Parker said. "You have to make sure the practice is financially healthy enough to be able to stand that, at least on a 90-day implementation schedule."
U.S. Regulators Approve Cymbalta® For Treatment Of Generalised Anxiety Disorder
U.S. Regulators Approve Cymbalta® For Treatment Of Generalised Anxiety Disorder
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the antidepressant Cymbalta® (duloxetine HCl) for the treatment of generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) and Boehringer Ingelheim announced today.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the antidepressant Cymbalta® (duloxetine HCl) for the treatment of generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) and Boehringer Ingelheim announced today.
Share Point Services? What is this?
norwichbulletin.com - www.norwichbulletin.com
This is a good article describing the basics of Share Point services. Share Point services tends to be used generically sometimes, when in fact there are many flavors of Share Point. This article describes a server/client installation, but there are also "web hosted" services available as well. Small Business Server 2003 and Windows 2003 Server include the "basic" portal features and it can grow from there with a full Share Point Server from Microsoft. Share Point is a valuable resource, but first do some homework and read up a bit to determine which flavor and whether local or web hosted will be the best solution for your practice. In short, an "intranet" is like a fenced-off part of the Internet that gives only a limited group access to its information.
This is a good article describing the basics of Share Point services. Share Point services tends to be used generically sometimes, when in fact there are many flavors of Share Point. This article describes a server/client installation, but there are also "web hosted" services available as well. Small Business Server 2003 and Windows 2003 Server include the "basic" portal features and it can grow from there with a full Share Point Server from Microsoft. Share Point is a valuable resource, but first do some homework and read up a bit to determine which flavor and whether local or web hosted will be the best solution for your practice. In short, an "intranet" is like a fenced-off part of the Internet that gives only a limited group access to its information.
Free Accounting Software - Microsoft Accounting Express
Do you need accounting software for the practice? Microsoft has free accounting software that will help you get started if you not set up with Quick Books or some other type of accounting software. The free version will only allow for use with one computer. If you are happy with the software, it can be upgraded later. You can also connect to ADP for payroll and Office Accounting Express is also integrated with Office 2007. You can also use the software even if you have an older version of Office from Microsoft. It's worth checking out and information can be exported to other formats, such as Excel Spreadsheets too.
http://ideawins.com/productinfo.html
http://ideawins.com/productinfo.htmlLilly Introduces World's First Digital Insulin Pen With Memory
Lilly Introduces World's First Digital Insulin Pen With Memory
Eli Lilly and Company today announced the launch of the first insulin pen with memory, HumaPen® MEMOIR™, to help simplify the daily management of diabetes.
MEMOIR is designed to meet the needs of people with diabetes who take several shots of mealtime insulin each day. It presents sophisticated technology and features in a consumer-friendly "push-to-know" digital display that allows patients to record and review their last 16 insulin doses, including the priming doses
Eli Lilly and Company today announced the launch of the first insulin pen with memory, HumaPen® MEMOIR™, to help simplify the daily management of diabetes.
MEMOIR is designed to meet the needs of people with diabetes who take several shots of mealtime insulin each day. It presents sophisticated technology and features in a consumer-friendly "push-to-know" digital display that allows patients to record and review their last 16 insulin doses, including the priming doses
New Storage Instructions Approved For BYETTA®
New Storage Instructions Approved For BYETTA®: "
Amylin Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq: AMLN) and Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved more convenient patient storage instructions for BYETTA® (exenatide) injection. BYETTA Pens can now be kept at a room temperature not to exceed 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) after first use.
Amylin Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq: AMLN) and Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved more convenient patient storage instructions for BYETTA® (exenatide) injection. BYETTA Pens can now be kept at a room temperature not to exceed 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) after first use.
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Math–This Could be a Subject for Michael Moore to Explore and Document In a Movie
Screenings Too–Killer Algorithms Part 12–Medical Billing Codes Style
Assessing Consumer Credit Scores–Attack of the Killer Algorithms Chapter 21 With Flawed Data
Duping” Society Combined With A World of Rogue Algorithms & Flawed Data Continues In Markets As Seen With Knight Capital This Week-Attack of the Killer Algorithms Chapter 36
Study Fraud With EHR Technologies, Namely Medical Records/Billing Software Used by Hospitals– HHS And SEC Continue Getting Their Non-Algorithmic Fannies Kicked–Attack of the Killer Algorithms Chapter 46
SilverScript Senior Drug Program Sanctioned by Medicare Until the Payment And Billing Algorithms are Cleaned Up-Killer Algorithms Chapter 53
