John Flucke's Dental Tech Blog

From the blog of a dentist...how he is maximizing his use of a Tablet PC...BD

Yesterday I spent the day at a continuing education course here in KC. I was at a lecture titled "Contemporary Topics in Periodontics" given by Dr. Gretchen Bruce.

In the "old days" I would have taken a notepad and pen to take my notes (I'm a copious note taker). Then I would come home and transfer all of my written notes to my computer. I would have created a Word document and then saved it so that if I ever needed to refer to the info, I could find it easily.

What a time saver the Tablet is! I took all of my notes digitally and then simply transferred them to my network when I got back home. Since the Tablet has handwriting recognition, it was as easy as writing on paper. The Tablet accepts my Sprint Broadband card so I was able to check e-mail and upload photos during the break.

We're currently using the Tablet as a check in kiosk in my present office location, but once we move in mid December I plan on using it as a mobile workstation that I can carry around with me.

Yahoo! 360° - John Flucke's Dental Tech Blog

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Hospital eyed in veterans' deaths

VA surgeon may not have been thoroughly checked before hiring...more information pending upon release on this story...BD

They were the last words Katrina Shank ever heard from him. Her husband never woke up from surgery, and by the next day he had bled to death. Shank, it turns out, was far from the only surgical patient to die under Veizaga-Mendez's care.

Nine veterans all in some way linked to Veizaga-Mendez, officials say died in a six-month period ending in March, during which the hospital would have expected only two deaths. Even before Veizaga-Mendez was hired at the Veterans Administration hospital, he had made payouts in two malpractice suits in Massachusetts and was under investigation there on suspicion of botching seven cases, two of which ended in deaths. 'Gigantic problems' How the surgeon came to practice on veterans has raised troubling questions about the VA's screening of its doctors and about how much those who hired him in Illinois did to check his background in Massachusetts.

Veizaga-Mendez, whose Illinois license remains valid pending a December hearing, has no listed telephone number in Illinois and Massachusetts and has been unreachable for comment.

Hospital eyed in veterans' deaths - Health Care - MSNBC.com

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6 locations raided in Anna Nicole probe

It's not over until it's over...investigations included the residences and offices of two doctors...BD

Searches were carried out in Los Angeles and Orange counties "related to doctors who provided medical treatment or prescribed drugs for Anna Nicole Smith or her associates," he said. Los Angeles County district attorney's spokeswoman Sandi Gibbons said a total of six locations were searched, including the homes and offices of two doctors, but she would not name the physicians. Ellyn Garafalo, a lawyer for Dr. Sandeep Kapoor, who prescribed methadone to Smith shortly before she died, confirmed the doctor's home and offices were among those raided but declined to comment further.

6 locations raided in Anna Nicole probe - Yahoo! News

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FDA approves anti-AIDS pill from Merck - Isentress

WASHINGTON - The government approved a novel anti-AIDS pill on Friday, offering a new option for hard-to-treat patients.  Manufacturer Merck & Co. said Isentress should be on pharmacy shelves within two weeks. The AIDS virus uses three different enzymes to reproduce and infect cells. Numerous drugs are available that target two of those enzymes, called protease and reverse transcriptase. Isentress is the first in a new class of medicines that blocks the third enzyme, called integrase. Added to "cocktails" of other HIV medicines, the drug can lower the amount of HIV in the blood and help infection-fighting immune cells rebound.

FDA approves anti-AIDS pill from Merck - Yahoo! News

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The Value of Internet Health Blogs and Forums

Just wanted to take a moment and share the thoughts from a physician who took the time to make note and say thank you for the assistance and help she sought through this blog and EMR Update.  When an someone finds web sites helpful it is always a great gesture when the time is also taken to give a little back in the way of saying thank you.  Blogs and forums are the way we all communicate, learn and help each other today.  BD

Just a short note to say thank you for your recent advice and communications through EMR Update and the

Medical Quack.

It was really valuable to me to be able to quickly find assistance and the fact that I was able to communicate directly with you was really a plus. Posts and communications from all were very helpful and helped lead me to resolving my issues and I just wanted to say that healthcare forums and blogs are truly a great resource on the Internet. Anyone in health care today can certainly benefit with their use and I am walking proof.

Thanks again. You were a God send. Thank you from me and my husband and my young son.  If I can ever be of help to you, please do not hesitate to call on me.

Dr. Marjorie Yong

http://ducknetweb.blogspot.com/

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Hospital in Ireland closes for a month to save money..

Planned closing for a month as the hospital is already ahead of targets...so in December the hospital goes black...BD 

Our Lady's Hospital in Navan is to close an orthopaedic unit for December in a bid to save money, the Health Service Executive (HSE) has confirmed. The HSE has imposed a round of cutbacks in an attempt to reduce its ¬230 million deficit. The HSE said the unit, which does elective surgery for patients requiring knee and hip operations, is already ahead of targets and that only a small number of operations would have to be rescheduled.

ireland.com - Breaking News - Cutbacks to close Navan hospital unit

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Patients endure chaos in hospital - Australia

No beds available...24 hour wait in the ER is a long time...BD

THOUSANDS of Victorians are waiting more than 24 hours in some cases longer than five days on an emergency department trolley before the hospital can find them a bed. New figures obtained by The Age reveal that a lack of beds is creating a logjam across the public system, with 2700 patients waiting longer than a day in emergency in the past financial year. The Brumby Government's own target says that no patient should spend longer than 24 hours in emergency before being admitted to a ward.

Patients endure chaos in hospital - National - theage.com.au

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Who's Eyeing Your Private Health Records - Case of George Clooney

He's in the news quite frequently, but I'm sure this was one he didn't anticipate...and he's being very kind about it, but basically he's somewhat of a poster child for privacy here...it could happen anywhere...and new health IT management  systems are on the job to audit...this case was no more than curiosity but others situations could have a very different twist...BD

Some 27 workers at a New Jersey hospital were suspended Wednesday after reportedly taking a peek at George Clooney's confidential medical records while the actor was being treated there following a motorcycle accident.

None of the employees, each suspended for four weeks, were doctors treating Clooney, administrators said, raising a host of questions about who can view private medical information and what measures are in place to protect patients' privacy.

Clooney, a staunch privacy advocate, surprised many when he said the workers should not have been suspended.

"And while I very much believe in a patient's right to privacy," he said in a statement released to the media, "I would hope that this could be settled without suspending medical workers."

ABC News: Who's Eyeing Your Private Health Records?

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Workers: Look out for less insurance

Good article that offers some simple and plain information on how the offerings from employers will be changing..BD

At a time of rising premiums, "Companies are looking for some kind of positive they can mix with the inevitable negatives," Billet said.

When the days get shorter, the leaves start falling and the stores fill their shelves with Halloween treats, it can mean only one thing: Benefits enrollment season is here. Before long, your employer will send you a package outlining your health care options for the coming year.

Workers: Look out for less insurance -The Clarion-Ledger- Real Mississippi

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Have We (physicians) become Insurer's enemies? Editorial

One physician speaks out on how educating patients on how health care works today can be beneficial, as he states patients are not getting the big picture on what is really happening today with healthcare...BD 

I recently had an interesting conversation with a friend who works for one of the large health insurance companies in our area. We had intended just to spend some time together and visit at my home that evening, but the conversation soon turned to what occupies most of our time: health care and insurance.

Our conversation then migrated to a discussion about the relationship between health care providers and the insurance industry. My friend commented that the general perception at his insurance company is that the relationship is adversarial at best, and that providers are the main reason that health costs are so high. We talked about this for a very long time. I pointed out that most physicians and practices are making less now than they ever have, but that the insurance companies are making more than they ever have.

I find it interesting that the insurance company considers us health care providers to be the "enemy," but that incomes for us and our practices have been declining steadily for years. I suspect that some of this "enemy" sentiment extends into the halls of governmental insurance programs, too. It is my opinion that at least some of this sentiment is being translated into the "performance incentives" we see on the horizon.

The patients whom we see every day are not getting the clear picture of what is going on in health care in America.

ADVANCE for Physician Assistants | Editorial

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States Sue Bush Administration over New Children's Health Insurance Requirements

Can you sue "city hall" ...interesting story to follow regarding the hot and disputed SCHIP program...BD  

Several states have sued the Bush administration over new policies governing the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP). The suits follow broad opposition from state public health experts and congressional Democrats and Republicans who urged the administration to abandon the new policies. The suits also come as Congress attempts to reauthorize SCHIP after a presidential veto. On Oct. 1, New Jersey sued the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) seeking relief from new administration policies regarding federal approval of SCHIP eligibility requirements.

The state filed the complaint in the U.S. District Court in New Jersey. On Oct. 4, four other states sued HHS in a joint suit. Those states New York, Maryland, Illinois and Washington filed their complaint in the U.S. District Court in Manhattan. Their complaint is similar to that of New Jersey. The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), a division of HHS, announced the new policies in an Aug. 17 letter to state health officials. CMS issued the new policies to reduce the chance state plans would extend SCHIP coverage to individuals who may be eligible for private coverage. Opponents of extending SCHIP eligibility often refer to this as "crowd-out.

States Sue Bush Administration over New Children's Health Insurance Requirements - Regulatory Matters - OMB Watch

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And they thought they had insurance ...

Update on the actions working against eliminating "virtual insurance" and "vaporware policies"...BD 

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and legislative leaders have been working toward providing health care coverage to as many Californians as possible. The governor has even proposed extending coverage to all Californians as a way to ensure people have access to doctors before they end up seeking urgent care in emergency rooms, which is much more expensive.

Unfortunately, HMOs and insurance companies have been engaging in a noxious practice which undermines these noble and necessary efforts. As a way to increase their profits, HMOs have been telling their policyholders that they are covered for treatment - and then canceling the policy after the treatment has been provided, leaving the policyholder with the bill. In other words, you can pay your insurance premiums on time for years, get the necessary pre-authorization for treatment from your insurance company, and the insurer still can refuse to pay for your treatment.

Blue Cross isn't the only company. In California, at least six health insurance companies face legal proceedings for canceling policies after patients sought treatment.

And they thought they had insurance ...

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Nurses were too busy to take time to wash their hands...

More on the super bug from the UK...BD

LONDON - Nurses who didn't wash their hands and left patients lying in soiled beds were cited in an official report blaming mismanagement for the deaths of 90 people who contracted a bacterial infection in hospitals in southern England. "Significant failings" at all levels contributed to infections of more than 1,000 patients at three hospitals, the Healthcare Commission said Thursday. The patients were infected with Clostridium difficile, or C. diff, which can cause diarrhea, colitis and other intestinal problems, officials said.

British hospitals blamed in 90 deaths - Yahoo! News

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Lipsticks contain lead, consumer group says

This story did not make my day by any means...but another health warning to be aware of..strange too that it is the more expensive brands with issues...BD

ATLANTA (Reuters) - Lipsticks tested by a U.S. consumer rights group found that more than half contained lead and some popular brands including Cover Girl, L'Oreal and Christian Dior had more lead than others, the group said on Thursday. ADVERTISEMENT The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics said tests on 33 brand-name red lipsticks by the Bodycote Testing Group in Santa Fe Spring, California, found that 61 percent had detectable lead levels of 0.03 to 0.65 parts per million (ppm). Lipstick, like candy, is ingested. The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, a coalition of public health, environmental and women's groups, said the FDA has not set a limit for lead in lipstick.

Lipsticks contain lead, consumer group says - Yahoo! News

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Artist implants 'third ear' on his own arm

Very strange story indeed...created from lab cells...and then implanted...and it actually functions...BD

Performance artists are known for pushing the boundaries, but one Australian has astonished his contemporaries by having a third ear implanted onto his arm. The Cypriot-born eccentric Stelios Arcadious spent 10 years searching for a surgeon willing to perform the controversial operation.

"I hope to have a tiny microphone implanted to it that will connect with a Bluetooth transmitter; that way you can listen to what my ear is hearing."

Artist implants 'third ear' on his own arm | the Daily Mail

Hat Tip:  Kevin, MD

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Gilead Submits Marketing Applications In USA & EU For Viread® For The Treatment Of Chronic Hepatitis

Gilead Sciences, Inc. (Nasdaq: GILD) today announced that it has submitted a supplemental New Drug Application (sNDA) to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and a Type II variation to the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) for marketing approval of Viread® (tenofovir disoproxil fumarate) for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B in adults. Viread is already approved in the United States and European Union for the treatment of HIV as part of combination antiretroviral therapy. "New treatments are critically important in the fight against chronic hepatitis B, a potentially life-threatening infection that impacts millions of people worldwide," said Eugene Schiff, MD, Chief of the Division of Hepatology and Director of the Center for Liver Diseases at the University of Miami School of Medicine. "We've made great progress in our ability to diagnose and treat the disease, but a significant unmet medical need remains and ongoing efforts in research and development are essential."

Gilead Submits Marketing Applications In USA & EU For Viread® (Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate) For The Treatment Of Chronic Hepatitis B

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Presidential Candidate McCain To Propose Health Care System Overhaul Offering Insurance Tax Incentives; Focusing On Prevention, Quality Of Care

Nice gesture, but how does this help the folks that can't afford the out of pocket monthly bill for insurance...BD

Republican presidential candidate Sen. John McCain (Ariz.) on Thursday in Des Moines, Iowa, plans to announce a health care proposal that would seek to expand coverage through tax incentives and give people "more control and more choices," the AP/Long Island Newsday reports (Sidoti, AP/Long Island Newsday, 10/11).

Presidential Candidate McCain To Propose Health Care System Overhaul Offering Insurance Tax Incentives; Focusing On Prevention, Quality Of Care

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Report questions generic antidepressant - Wellbutrin

Study questioning the generic values as not being effective as the name brand...BD

For seven years Linda Douglas has been treating her depression with the antidepressant Wellbutrin, first with a twice-a-day version and then later with a more convenient once-a-day pill called Wellbutrin XL. The drug, she says, "renewed my joy for living." All that changed earlier this year when she switched to a generic version of Wellbutrin XL 300 milligrams to save money. Instead of paying $250 for a three-month supply of the brand drug, she was paying just $53. The cost savings were welcome, but Douglas, 48, a telecommunications project manager in Columbia, Md., says the depression returned during the six months she took the generic antidepressant.

The FDA does not require generic drugmakers seeking approval to do clinical trials of their drugs on hundreds or thousands of people as is required for brand drugs. Instead, the agency requires lab data and "bioequivalence" testing in about 24 to 36 healthy volunteers showing that the drug appears in the bloodstream in a similar manner to the brand, says Walsh.

If the active ingredient is released more quickly into a patient's bloodstream, that could mean there is less medication available to the patient later, which may explain why people like Douglas experienced a return of their depression, Cooperman says

Report questions generic antidepressant - Health Care - MSNBC.com

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Many Patients can't name drugs they take

Good reason to have electronic records to keep track of this...example...I take 2 green pills, one blue one, 1 orange one at night and 2 yellow ones when I need them and I used to take the red one...(grin)..BD 

CHICAGO - Most doctors rely on patients to give them an accurate account of what drugs they are taking, but a new U.S. study published on Thursday suggests many patients get it wrong.

About 40 percent of 119 patients taking blood pressure medication in three community health centers could not accurately recall what drugs they were taking.

That number jumped to 60 percent for those with low health literacy, a measure of their ability to read and comprehend health-related materials, researchers at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago found.

Persell said the problem was worse than expected and poses challenges for doctors who are trying to understand why a patient's health is not improving with treatment.

 

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21257401/

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Ultrasound execs sentenced in Milpitas Medicare scheme

The U.S. Attorney's office said Thursday four people were sentenced for their part in Medicare fraud of more than $1 million at Milpitas Medical Clinic. Tests at the clinic were based on falsified physician orders, investigators said. Alexander Dzhuga, owner of Direct Vision Inc. was sentenced to 21 months in prison. Leonid Dzhuga, the owner of National Diagnostic Inc., was sentenced to 24 months in prison. Vladimir Semenov, the owner of Pulse Diagnostic Services Inc., was sentenced to 18 months in prison. Natalia Stadnik, the owner of Prolink Diagnostic Inc., was sentenced to six months of home confinement, 200 hours of community service and three years of probation. All four defendants were additionally order to pay restitution to Medicare amounting to $909,000. The four owners of the ultrasound companies admitted that they knew Medicare patients had been recruited to the Milpitas Medical Clinic by promising them free transportation, food, and medical care, investigators said. Upon arrival at the clinic, workers at the clinic copied the beneficiaries' Medicare cards. Other workers presented themselves as physicians and nurses and conducted a cursory examination of the beneficiaries.

Ultrasound execs sentenced in Milpitas Medicare scheme - Silicon Valley / San Jose Business Journal:

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Jury finds Wyeth liable in drugs lawsuit - breast cancer

Not good news for Premarin...which has been around for years and is one of the top hormone replacement therapies for women...BD 

A jury levied a $134.5 million judgment against Wyeth in a lawsuit filed by three Nevada women who claimed the company's hormone replacement drugs caused their breast cancer. ADVERTISEMENT It was the largest award to date against the New Jersey-based pharmaceutical company, which faces about 5,300 similar lawsuits across the country in state and federal courts.

The panel deliberated for two days before announcing its verdict late Wednesday in favor of Jeraldine Scofield, 75, of Fallon; Arlene Rowatt, 67, of Incline Village; and Pamela Forrester, 64, of Yerington. The same five-man, two-woman jury will return to the courtroom Friday to consider punitive damages against the drug maker.

They also said the drug, approved the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, is not dangerous and remains on the market.

Jury finds Wyeth liable in drugs lawsuit - Yahoo! News

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My job's giving me a heart attack!

Working in high stress jobs these days can take it's toll....37 years old and the victim of a heart attack..and she made changes...BD

ATLANTA, Georgia (CNN) -- When Helen Smith had a heart attack at age 37, she was in shock. She was young, healthy and in tip-top shape. There'd been no warning signs. She had no family history of heart disease. It was no little heart attack, either. It was a big one, she says, that forced her to take drugs and wear a pacemaker for the rest of her life. What in the world, Smith wondered, had caused the heart attack? And, more important, what could she do to make sure she didn't have another one? Smith, a forensic psychologist, never got a clear answer to the first question, but she answered the second one on her own: She knew deep down that her stressful working conditions had contributed to her medical crisis. And she knew things had to change if she wanted her heart to keep ticking.

My job's giving me a heart attack! - CNN.com

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Fiat rolls out Microsoft-driven - Doc on Wheels?

Fiat is not alone, Ford Motor is right up there as well.  Now why did we include this on a medical blog?  Do doctors and patients drive cars?  Well of course they do or at least most that I know.  With the advances in telemedicine give this some real thought.  There are both pros and cons here.  When using your blue tooth phone you will be able to connect the device to the USB connector in the glove compartment, thus you are now connected to all the resources available on the cell phone.  Picture driving down the road and a patient calls and some of the information you may require is available for on the cell phone.  Voice technologies are making this easier to access without distracting your eyes from the road, but as we all know this is a distraction of it's own nature, gosh knows I have missed freeway ramps, etc. while just speaking on the hands free cell phone myself, but will patients in time begin to demand this type of communication from their physicians?  Smart thing to do of course in this instance is to pull of the road and continue without being behind the wheel.  

With the new technology, most of the technology will be available from the steering wheel, but again, there are still times when even voice communication is terribly distracting.  Opt for some music in this case and shut off the phone calls!  

If you are making a house call though, this could be very helpful in finding a patient's home though.  Kind of gives a new meaning to "Doc on Wheels" if you will.  The USB connection solves holding a cell phone and trying to focus on driving, but again as mentioned above, you do need a certain level of focus to discuss matters too. 

Anyway, the reason for including this article is simply to create an awareness of what's to come and address one more challenge with using IT in healthcare.  In a few years the occupation of a physician will continue to change dramatically from how we react and interface today...some good things and some things that we will all need to balance.  BD

________________________________________________________________________________________________

Rather than sitting on a desk, this piece of hardware gets parked in a garage.  Fiat will offer the system under the name "Blue&Me," a reference to the ability to link a mobile phone to the system using Bluetooth wireless technology.

Hitting the roads in fall 2007 is Ford Sync. Powered by Microsoft Auto, this in-vehicle solution enables drivers to easily stay connected to the people and digital entertainment that matter to them in a convenient environment.

Sync is the result of a partnership between Microsoft and Ford that is focused on extending the digital lifestyle and connected experiences to your car.  Users will experience hands free communication and full support for all of the popular media devices and mobile phones on the market. Sync’s intelligent and updateable media interface connects the vehicle to the popular technology of today and tomorrow.

Video:  http://www.microsoft.com/windowsautomotive/videos/FiatBlueAndMe/default.html

Windows Automotive:  http://www.microsoft.com/windowsautomotive/default.mspx

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Placebo Television #7

You just have to love this doctor...one of the favorites here...Dr. Doug Farrago continues to tell us how it is...I love the commercial breaks...this week he talks about the "poor Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeons" and highlights some additional humor here with "nephrologists gone wild" for the commercial break...BD

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Length Of Pharma Sales Rep Visit Falls To 90 Seconds

Long enough to re-stock the sample closet?  As physicians schedules get busier, they do not have the time to allocate to lengthy in person visits, even though some of the information discussed is helpful  essential, but when you have a waiting room full of patients, the balance of time does get a little tricky and even stressful.  Marketing...marketing...and more marketing...and so many suggestions on how to effectively handle marketing the physician...and again without offending the patients...what can one accomplish in 90 seconds?  BD 

Whilst the Pharma industry is showing an 8% growth year on year, the sector is under more and more competitive pressure, particularly in sales, to maintain this rate. The challenges for Pharma sales forces have become more acute than ever in how to bring increased ROI. These challenges will be the main focus for the forthcoming eyeforpharma's Sales Force Effectiveness USA, which will take place in Philadelphia, November 12th 2007. Eye for Pharma are world renowned for providing business information and conferences for the Pharma Industry and are bringing together over 300 pharma experts from around the globe and a wealth of new research to make the Summit one of the most eagerly awaited events of the year.

Length Of Pharma Sales Rep Visit Falls To 90 Seconds

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Broomwell Positioned To Make Clean Sweep Within NHS

More on telemedicine in the UK.... pilot program beginning to release results...it is formatted to work with and assist the GP with cardio care...will we see a community of our fellow Brits replacing their wrist watches with devices such as this one soon...and with the support of NHS...I guess time will tell...how connected will one be in the near future.  Technology as such is a good thing, but the stress of the current patient/physician relationship as we know it today is certainly being put to the test...BD

The NHS National Technology Adoption Hub for healthcare, which was unveiled in Manchester, has chosen Broomwell HealthWatchs advanced cardiac monitoring service as one of just three advanced healthcare solutions to promote across the UK. Based in Manchester Royal Infirmary the newly formed Hub has been set up to ensure that NHS patients across England will benefit from new, cost-effective, life-saving technologies such as the 12 lead electrocardiogram (ECG) telemedicine service from telemedicine specialist Broomwell HealthWatch.

  Our basic vital signs monitor, the MiniClinic, looks like a wristwatch. It communicates with the HEALTHWATCH call centre through a base station located in your house (or office if you wish). This means you can have a wide freedom of movement throughout your daily routine.

The MiniClinic vital signs monitor looks just like a wristwatch. You can be secure in the knowledge that a health professional is always just a button-press away.

The subscription of £ 29.99 / month entitles subscribers to call the centre as often as required and whenever they feel any unease or require reassurance

The service does not require the purchase of any equipment however such diagnostic tools are highly recommended so as to enable the centre to make proper diagnosis

Broomwell Positioned To Make Clean Sweep Within NHS

Web Site:  http://www.broomwellhealthwatch.com/desktopdefault.aspx?tabId=104

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The Doctor can see you now...new service for video conferencing in the UK and Ireland

Folks in the UK have a new way to access medical assistance...via a 3G cell phone...it does not replace having a regular primary care MD, but it does cost...35 pounds per consultation...and accepts credit cards, pay pal, etc.  It also offers the opportunity to create a personal health record here...no prescriptions given here.  Once you have completed your Medical Questionnaire your answers will be sent for review by a registered Medical Doctor who is insured to practice by the Medical Defence Union or Medical Protection Society.  Video conferences should be started within 1 hour of the request and are 24/7...365 days a year...and if you miss you call after 2- attempts, you will have a cancellation fee of 15 pounds.  The service will not give you a sick note or medical certificate for work..and the service states the report "is not a legal document that can excuse you from work"...

Interesting concept...lots of questions though...I'm not quite sure that using Dr. Google in referencing some areas might not be just as good.  The service is not affiliated with the NHS.  BD 

3G Doctor does not seek to replace your family doctor. We expect patients to be able to appreciate that only through a registered family doctor can the best possible care be provided. 3G Doctor has been created to meet the new and emerging needs of patients - needs that have largely evolved through advances in consumer technology and patient interest in self care.

The 3G Doctor website and the services within it can be used anywhere you can get access to the Internet on a PC or mobile phone. To make 3G Video consults with our Doctors you will need to be within good reception of an UK or Irish 3G cellular signal.

 

http://www.3gdoctor.com/index.php

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Benefits of statin drugs continue for years

Published in the New England Journal...even after statins have been stopped, the benefits of the therapy continue...BD

Scientists in the UK have found that the benefits to the heart from taking statin drugs may last for years and are sustained even after the drugs are stopped. A research team from Glasgow University in Scotland have found that men who took the statin drug pravastatin for five years had a lower risk of death or heart attack years after they stopped taking the drug. According to Ian Ford and his colleagues, taking statins for an average of five years provided an ongoing reduction in the risk of coronary events for an additional period of up to ten years. The Scottish team conducted a study of 6,595 middle-aged men, and found that the risk of heart attack or death from any type of heart disease was 11.8 percent for the pravastatin recipients, compared with 15.5 percent for volunteers who took a placebo for the first five years of the test.

Benefits of statin drugs continue for years

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Get a new medical staff....

 

http://youtube.com/watch?v=TEgsfWqcFJU

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Check in with the palm of your hand..

In an emergency, one would not have to be treated as a "Jane Doe" patient as the information would be available if enrolled, and available if you were not conscious...using this system the palm ID is connected to a medical record.  The palm image number is the identifier connected to the image and the item that connects the information to the medical records..not the palm image itself...BD 

A new scanner that analyzes the unique characteristics of the veins under your palm is being used to identify patients when they check in for doctor visits. News On 6 anchor Omar Villafranca reports its helping reduce errors that can lead to potentially deadly medical mistakes. Tom Butz is checking in for a routine doctor's appointment.

"Sir, if you could place your right hand here with your middle finger in the middle," the receptionist at his doctors office said. He's enrolling in a new patient registry program that will forever make patient identification more accurate. "The palm vein scanner is simply a technology that utilizes human factors, which is biometric technology, to assign a unique identity to individuals as they're enrolled in the program," said Jim Burke, Director of Information Services, Carolinas Healthcare System.

"With unconscious trauma patients, it's not unusual that we're forced to take care of the patient as a John or Jane Doe for hours,” Ray said. “Imagine the power of not having to do that for even a minute because the palm technology tells us who the patient is. It's a very powerful concept."

KOTV.com - The News On 6

Watch the TV Video here:  http://www.kotv.com/e-clips/news/?id=9117

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How vodka on drip-feed saved a life

They ran out so the doctor used 3 bottles of his "finest", but it was able to hold the patient over until they were able to get the hospital alcohol in the morning when the bottle shops re-opened.  The patients received 3-4 standard drinks every hour...and the patient didn't even complain of a hangover!  This is one for the journals...BD

Life-or-death decisions depend on doctors thinking on their feet. Australian doctors, it appears, are also trained to think with their drink. Doctors in a city 600 miles north of Brisbane have saved the life of an Italian tourist by administering rum, vodka and whisky for three days through a tube into his stomach. The 24-year-old man from Milan, whose name has not been released, was brought to Mackay Base Hospital unconscious and in a serious condition after swallowing large quantities of ethylene glycol, a poisonous substance found in antifreeze.

How vodka on drip-feed saved a life - Times Online

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NHS superbug inquiry blames trust for deaths - UK

Criminal charges may be filed...to include murder...BD

The Healthcare Commission attributed the deaths of 90 patients at the Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells hospitals in Kent to infection from Clostridium difficile, which causes severe diarrhoea and has taken over from MRSA as the main threat to patients. Evidence will be referred to Kent police and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) about how the trust's slack infection controls contributed to the deaths. They will decide whether to bring criminal charges, which could include murder, manslaughter or breaches of health and safety legislation, said Anna Walker, chief executive of the Healthcare Commission.

NHS superbug inquiry blames trust for deaths | Health | SocietyGuardian.co.uk

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Patients Turn to the Internet for Health Information

This also indicates patients are taking a more active role in their own health care along the line..BD

When we did our first health study in the year 2000," Fox notes, "the American Medical Association sent out a press release asking patients to make a New Year's resolution not to go online." But patients wanted more information.

They kept going online, often without telling their physicians. So doctors adapted.

The new study shows that the patients most likely to use Internet research to challenge a doctor are those with disabilities and chronic conditions.

NPR : Patients Turn to the Internet for Health Information

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Man's dentures lost in surgery, found in throat

Strange story on this one...and the patient survived...BD

WELLINGTON, New Zealand - Doctors in New Zealand lost a man’s false teeth during his back surgery but found them four days later — stuck in his throat.

The 81-year-old entered the hospital in February 2005, and his upper dentures were removed before the operation, a Health and Disability Commission report said Friday.

But somehow, the report said, the false teeth got back into the heavily sedated man’s mouth. A neurological condition allowed him to cope with having them in his throat for days — though not easily.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21153570/

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Doctor who stunted disabled child commits suicide

Sad story...news media coverage probably didn't help at all...BD

SEATTLE - The doctor at the center of a controversial procedure which stunted the growth of a severely disabled girl has committed suicide. Dr. Daniel F. Gunther died from toxic asphyxia from inhaling car exhaust, said Greg Hewett of the King County Medical Examiner's Office. His time of death was listed as 9:30 p.m. on Sept. 30. The 49-year-old was a pediatric endocrinologist at Children's Hospital and Regional Medical Center in Seattle and an associate professor of pediatrics at the University of Washington.

In 2004, Gunther and his colleague Dr. Douglas S. Diekema performed a hysterectomy, removed the breast tissue and started hormone treatment to permanently halt the growth of a 6-year-old disabled girl so her parents could continue to care for her at home. The doctors wrote about the procedure, which was performed at Children's Hospital, in the October 2006 issue of the Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine.

Ashley's family thanked Gunther profusely on their daughter's blog, last updated on March 25, 2007, saying, "Special thanks to Doctor Daniel F. Gunther, without whose courage, confidence, knowledge, open mindedness and unwavering support the treatment would not have been realized and the idea would have remained just an idea. We know that many endocrinologists would not have ventured into such new territory. It is our, and Ashley’s luck, that we knocked on the right door."

Doctor who stunted disabled child commits suicide - Health Care - MSNBC.com

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Generic Trileptal (oxcarbazepine) approved by the FDA

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved the first generic versions of Trileptal (oxcarbazepine), an anticonvulsant drug. Generic oxcarbazepine is FDA-approved for use alone or in combination with other medications in the treatment of partial seizures in adults and children aged four years and above. "FDA requires generic drugs to have the same quality, strength, purity and stability as brand-name drugs," said Gary J. Buehler, director of FDA's Office of Generic Drugs. "The agency ensures that generic drugs are safe and effective, offering alternatives to Americans in choosing their prescription drugs." Oxcarbazepine tablets in three strengths (150 milligrams, 300 milligrams and 600 milligrams) are manufactured by Roxane Laboratories Inc., Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Limited, and Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Limited.

Generic Trileptal (oxcarbazepine) approved in U.S.

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HMO Enrollees Get Better Care Than Medicaid Managed Care

If you are an enrollee in a Medicaid managed care program the chances are that you will receive lower-quality care than somebody in a commercial managed care program, according to a report in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), October 10th issue. The authors explain "Although enrollment of commercially insured individuals in health maintenance organizations (HMOs) has decreased in recent years, HMOs continue to provide care for an increasing proportion of the Medicaid population. Between 1994 and 2004, enrollment in Medicaid managed care tripled from 7.9 million beneficiaries to more than 27 million beneficiaries. The proportion of Medicaid beneficiaries in managed care increased from 23 percent to more than 60 percent during the same time period." They add that there is not much peer-reviewed literature on the quality of care given within health plans to Medicaid enrollees.

Commercial Managed Care Enrollees Get Better Care Than Medicaid Managed Care Enrollees

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American Lung Association's Free Online Flu Clinic Locator

Find a clinic for a free flu shot...BD

Finding a neighborhood spot to get a flu vaccine is just a click away, thanks to the American Lung Association's fast and free "Flu Clinic Locator" now available at http://www.lungusa.org. Influenza and its complications lead to hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations, and tens of thousands of American deaths every year, but an annual flu shot is the key to prevention. The American Lung Association's online flu clinic locator tool, now in its fifth year, makes it easy for the public to find flu shot clinics in their local area. Vaccination typically begins in October and can continue through March.

American Lung Association's Free Online Flu Clinic Locator

Web Site:  http://www.lungusa.org

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New Book Challenges Current Thinking On Depression

New book on the market addressing bipolar conditions...BD

The Depression Advantage is an audacious departure from the accepted doctrine and canon of literature on depression. The book celebrates the advantages of spiritual, personal and social growth possible through the experience of depressed states and challenges current thinking on depression treatment. Drawing from historical and literary examples ranging from the lives of the Saints to Buddhist parables to pop culture heroes like the X-Men, The Depression Advantage demonstrates that physical, mental, emotional and spiritual pain can be a catalyst for personal growth and transcendent understanding. The Depression Advantage redefines the scale of functionality for depressed people; teaching them how to reach inside their pain to find a place of spiritual peace, understanding and growth.

Pulling no punches, Tom Wootton paints a realistic picture of the bipolar condition in its many faces, then gently guides the reader through the steps necessary to lead an introspective life that greatly ameliorates those symptoms, with the ultimate goal of helping bipolar people gain control of their lives. Ultimately, The Bipolar Advantage will stand as a guide book for those who don't want to accept a diminished view of their lives after a diagnosis of bipolar. It's a road map to wellness and strength that will stand the test of time and the changing winds of popular bipolar treatment modalities.

New Book Challenges Current Thinking On Depression And Finds Advantages In The Condition

http://www.bipolaradvantage.com.

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Otto Bock HealthCare : C - Legs

Fascinating leg/knee replacements...and insurance and Medicare is covering much of this...micro processor controls the use...the legs vibrates to let the user know when they are locked..be sure to watch the video...BD 

Since the introduction of the C-Leg® in 1997... more than 13,000 users worldwide have taken advantage of the unparalleled stability and reliability available from the C-Leg. The C-Leg gives you stability, right when you need it. Without the worry of stumbling or falling like most other knees. The C-Leg allows the wearer to: * seamlessly speed up or slow down * take on hills or slopes * recover from stumbles * go down stairs step-over-step The science behind the knee is revolutionary. It anticipates what the wearer is doing and accomodates every change, in real time... by utilizing microprocessors to control the knee's hydraulic function 50 times a second.

Microprocessor-Controlled Hydraulics
Gives optimal response during swing phase. Not a step early, not a step late. Flexion and extension motors are continuously adjusted to create optimal stability during stance phase.

Otto Bock HealthCare : a global leader in healthcare products | Otto Bock

Additional Video:  Channel 10 MS Video....

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California state site can't shake porn problems

Still having issues with porn...after GSA shutting it down last week...Marin County site shut down once more to heal and avoid contamination of other state sites...BD

San Francisco (IDGNS) - The Web site blamed for last week's Internet problems within the State of California has been taken offline after links to pornographic material reappeared on the site.  The Transportation Authority of Marin's tam.ca.gov Web site was offline Wednesday, its front page replaced with a placeholder page saying it is down for maintenance. The site was taken down after security experts reported that it was hosting pornographic material over the past weekend.

California state site can't shake porn problems - Yahoo! News

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5,000 nurses strike against Northern California hospitals

Replacement nurses taking over...from where?  Business as usual except for the picketing nurses outside the hospital doors...with nurses in such demand today this is something we need to pay attention to...and this goes for doctors too...we can't simply keep pushing for more with less...technology can offer some ease in some areas, but down the basics, these are the folks that save our lives, thus placing a dollar value on human lives just does not fall in to the overall scheme of "good medical care" and nobody knows this better than those who work in healthcare.  BD

OAKLAND Nearly 5,000 nurses in Northern California went on strike Wednesday to protest what they said were inadequate contract offerings from the Sutter Health hospital chain. The nurses have been in negotiations with many of the not-for-profit hospitals since the spring. The California Nurses Association decided on a two-day walkout to protest what they said were unacceptable proposals on health care and retirement benefits, and staffing levels. The strike affects 13 bay area hospitals and two Sacramento-area hospitals. The Sutter Health hospitals are located in Santa Rosa, Oakland, San Francisco, Marysville, Yuba City and several other cities. Hospital officials say replacement workers are in place and patients should not expect disruptions in service. Charles Idelson, communications director for the California Nurses Association, said patient care was the central issue.

It's come to this because Sutter has refused to listen to the concerns of their nurses, Idelson said. Many nurses can't even take breaks a significant percentage of the time because of inadequate staffing, he said.

“It's business as usual for us here as much as it can be with some strikers and picketers in front of the hospital,” she said. She estimated there were about 40 strikers in several hospitals around the Castro Valley campus.

SignOnSanDiego.com > News > State -- 5,000 nurses strike against Northern California hospitals

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HMO shutdown creates scramble

More decisions and health care concerns for former members of the former HMO...and as usual, higher costs are a big concern for all...there are choices, but it appears all need to study and evaluate before jumping in...comments listed below from State and Verizon employees who are affected...BD 

INDIANAPOLIS -- Thousands of state government employees and more than 100,000 others could see their health-insurance premiums increase more than 50 percent if they want coverage matching what is now provided by M-Plan, which is shutting down its HMO. Some 10,000 state workers are among about 125,000 Indiana residents with M-Plan insurance coverage. Employers of all sizes are working to decide on insurance options to offer employees next year after M-Plan's decision last month to drop its health maintenance organization.

M-Plan has an agreement with WellPoint to recommend that employers switch to WellPoint's Anthem plans. Those include preferred provider organization plans that offer more doctors and health-care facilities, but often at a higher cost.

State employee Amy Barbar of Indianapolis said she had not decided which plan she will pick, but thought the comparable PPO option looked "completely unworkable" because of its cost.

Bob Zdanky, a computer programmer for Verizon Communications in Noblesville, said he liked the simplicity of M-Plan, with its set co-payments for doctor visits and no out-of-pocket deductibles to worry about. But he didn't like the hassle of getting a referral to see a physician outside his HMO network. "The last 20 years, I've had nothing but HMOs," Zdanky said "It's going to be a shock."

HMO shutdown creates scramble

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Millions in Underpayments from HMO's

If you are not using an electronics record program with patient registry reports to balance and check reimbursements from HMOs, this site might contain some additional resources to tap in to.  Press release and site information listed below.  BD

Miami, FL 10/08/07 - Most physicians' offices deposit checks received from HMOs and other payers with no questions asked, without verifying fee schedules or analyzing how the claim was adjudicated. Millions in underpayments remain undetected. - Generally HMOs UNDERPAY claims coded with modifiers (see definition below) - HMOs' Adjudication System cannot correctly adjudicate complex coding - Medicare HMOs found in violation of Medicare Guidelines - HMOs appeal process is tedious and cumbersome A modifier is a code appended to claims to denote that the service rendered was altered. - Many times the use of modifiers impact the reimbursement amount paid. - Modifiers ensure the correct payment for services. - Thousands of daily claims issued are coded with modifiers.

Looking for an NPI number?
Free NPI Search At
www.accuchecker.com

The National Provider Identifier (NPI) is a unique identification number for covered health care providers.

Millions in Underpayments from HMO's

Accuchecker Website:  http://www.accuchecker.com/

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Governor pushes leasing lottery to fund health plan

Well another new area of funds for health care...good ideas coming forth...BD

SACRAMENTO Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger unveiled new health care legislation yesterday that relies on leasing the state lottery to a private company to generate new revenue. Schwarzenegger's plan to lease the lottery is considered more popular than raising the sales tax, which had been considered the most likely new funding source to expand health care. The governor said his $14 billion proposal to cover the state's 6.5 million uninsured residents offers the best chance for comprehensive health care reform. We all know that the nation is watching us, he said at a news conference yesterday.

SignOnSanDiego.com > News > State -- Governor pushes leasing lottery to fund health plan

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Quest Diagnostics Joins National ePrescribing Patient Safety Initiative (NEPSI)

One more good reason to sign up for free e-prescribing...we have a permanent link on this site to get started.  With the Quest interlink when it becomes available, you will also be able to check on patient labs..chances are you may be using Quest for patient labs, so NEPSI looks to be the perfect complimentary companion...again...no charge for this...only time and the small learning curve...BD 

Quest Diagnostics Incorporated , the  nation's leading provider of diagnostic testing, information and services and a leading developer of healthcare IT solutions that foster better patient care, and Allscripts , the leading provider of clinical software, connectivity and information solutions that physicians use to improve healthcare, today announced that Quest Diagnostics has joined the National ePrescribing Patient Safety Initiative(TM) (NEPSI(TM)), a joint project of dedicated organizations that each play a unique role in resolving the current crisis in preventable medication errors.

Additionally, both companies announced that physician users of eRx NOW(TM), the web-based NEPSI electronic prescribing application provided free of charge by Allscripts, will now have access to electronic laboratory orders and results capabilities from Quest Diagnostics at no charge. The collaboration between Quest Diagnostics and Allscripts adds significant new capabilities to the NEPSI solution. Quest Diagnostics will provide physician users of eRx NOW with access to the electronic laboratory order and results module within its Care360 Physician Portal at no charge.

Now, in addition to ePrescribing, through a single sign-on, eRx NOW subscribers will be able to see how many lab results are pending and will be able to click through to the Care360 Physician Portal to order lab tests and view, flow, and graph laboratory results, as well as run analyses on their patient population. This integrated access is expected to be available later this year.

Quest Diagnostics Joins National ePrescribing Patient Safety Initiative (NEPSI)

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Warnings about drugs used with ultrasounds

Something to ponder...as it appears some could have reactions to the product...BD

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is reportedly about to issue "blackbox" warnings for drugs used to enhance the images of ultrasound machines in the diagnosing of heart problems. A black box warning is the strongest type of warning for medical products. These particular drugs are injected into some patients' veins before doctors view the heart by using an ultrasound procedure called echocardiography. FDA will issue information to doctors regarding the serious risks associated with the drugs. The drugs Definity and Optison are made from microscopic gas-filled spheres enclosed in tiny capsules of protein or fatty material and are injected into the veins of patients before their hearts are examined with ultrasound.

Warnings about drugs used with ultrasounds

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Returning to stressful jobs puts heart attack victims at risk of another attack

This is probably no surprise to all, but if you have health insurance from your employer...do you have a choice?  Can employers also work with employees to create a less stressful work environment too...a team effort?  BD

According to a new study heart attack survivors who return to jobs which are stressful run the risk of having another heart attack. The Canadian researchers say their findings highlight the importance of heart attack survivors effectively managing the stress that is associated with their work and the issue is about having control over the workload. The researchers from Laval University in Quebec followed some 1,000 patients as they returned to the work place and found that over a six year period over 200 suffered another heart problem and it was those with job strain who fared the worse with twice the risk of another heart problem.

Returning to stressful jobs puts heart attack victims at risk of another attack

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Guardian Life, Humana Introduce New Multiyear Health Insurance Plans Designed To Make Premiums More Predictable For Small Businesses

One more plan for employers to consider...insurance planning for health care is becoming a major project for all..one almost needs a full time employee to monitor the constant change and evaluation process...BD

Guardian's "Premium Protect" plan will be released within the next few weeks in five states and Washington, D.C., for companies with 51 to 150 employees. Under the two-year plan, employers "lock in" premium rate increases by paying an up-front fee of 3% to 4% to guarantee that premiums in the second year will increase by 0%, 6% or 9%. However, employee copayments and deductibles can be increased at any time if costs exceed expectations. Employee copays during the second year could increase by as much as $15, while deductibles could increase by $50 to $1,000 for in-network physician visits and hospital stays and by $500 to $1,000 for out-of-network treatment.

Humana's "No Worry" plan -- released in February in 17 states for companies with 51 to 99 workers -- caps annual rate increases at 6%. Employers must submit 75% of their workers' phone numbers and e-mail addresses to receive the rate cap guarantee and at least 30% of workers must fill out a health risk assessment survey. If employers get 90% of workers to complete health risk assessments, employers can receive a guarantee that annual premium increases will not exceed 4.5%. Employers who cancel the plan before three years will be charged a $25,000 penalty. Under some of the Humana plans, employees' deductibles can increase from $500 to $2,500 by the third year (McQueen, Wall Street Journal, 10/9).

Guardian Life, Humana Introduce New Multiyear Health Insurance Plans Designed To Make Premiums More Predictable For Small Businesses

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Ceftobiprole As Effective As Combination Therapy In Treating Patients With Diabetic Foot Infections

Good news for those suffering with diabetic foot infections...and the ability to treat the predominant staph associated bacteria...BD 

Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development, L.L.C. announced results from a Phase III trial that showed that investigational antibiotic ceftobiprole was found to clinically cure 86% of patients with diabetic foot infections -- including some infections that were caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). These data were presented at the 45th annual meeting of the Infectious Disease Society of America (IDSA) in San Diego, California. Ceftobiprole is licensed from, and is being co-developed with, Basilea Pharmaceutica Ltd.

"Diabetic foot infections are becoming increasingly difficult to treat," said study author, Gary J. Noel, M.D., Franchise Medical Leader, Anti- Infectives, Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development, L.L.C. "These data suggest that ceftobiprole may be useful as stand-alone therapy for this increasingly common type of complicated skin infection."

New Data Show Ceftobiprole As Effective As Combination Therapy In Treating Patients With Diabetic Foot Infections

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FDA CLEARS OMNIWAVE™ ENDOVASCULAR SYSTEM FOR CLOT REMOVAL IN PERIPHERAL VESSELS

 

WILMINGTON, MA October 8, 2007 - OmniSonics Medical Technologies, Inc., a developer of advanced  medical devices for use in the treatment of vascular disease, announced today that it has received clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to market its catheter based OmniWave" Endovascular System for the infusion of physician specified fluids, including thrombolytics, and for the removal of thrombus in the peripheral vasculature.

The OmniWave Endovascular System is based on patented OmniWave™ Technology, the first minimally invasive catheter-based technology that delivers low-power, transverse ultrasonic energy to remove thrombus quickly, safely, and effectively. Thrombus (also known as a blood clot) occurs in a number of conditions including deep vein thrombosis (DVT), when large veins are blocked and acute limb ischemia, when there is a sudden decrease of blood flow to the arteries of a limb. DVT affects approximately 2 million people in the U.S. every year, and acute limb ischemia affects over 250,000 people in the U.S. every year.

“Clearly, this is a major accomplishment for the company as we continue on track towards building a world-class enterprise that can deliver advanced medical devices to treat vascular disease,” said Richard Ganz, president and chief executive officer of OmniSonics. “The OmniWave System is designed to safely and rapidly remove blood clots in a single session. We believe that OmniWave Technology has the potential to be used in a wide range of vascular applications.” 

Omnisonics

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Proper Mattress Can Improve Sleep Comfort, Reduce Pain, Says American Chiropractic Association

October is National Chiropractic Month...based on the news today, I might need to go shopping soon.  BD

A good night's sleep is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle; however, an estimated 70 million Americans complain of sleeplessness. This October, during National Chiropractic Month, the American Chiropractic Association (ACA) is offering advice to help consumers select comfortable mattresses and pillows that can help limit unnecessary back and neck pain. "Americans spend one-third of their lives sleeping, so it makes  sense to invest in a sleep set that can improve your comfort and overall health," says Scott Bautch, DC, DACBOH, spokesperson for the American Chiropractic´ Association. "Many people don't realize the reason for their neck or back pain is literally right underneath them -- it's their mattress and pillow.

Proper Mattress Can Improve Sleep Comfort, Reduce Pain, Says American Chiropractic Association

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Breast Reconstruction Surgical Webcast For Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Women with breast cancer often seek immediate breast reconstruction after a mastectomy to help them regain a semblance of their body and for their psychological peace of mind. As part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital is re-airing its webcast on one of the most often performed breast reconstruction surgical procedures, using muscle tissue from a patient's back. The 60-minute webcast will not only include a pre-taped surgical reconstruction, but breast surgeon Anne Rosenberg, M.D., clinical professor of Surgery, Jefferson Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University and plastic reconstructive surgeon Steven Copit, M.D., clinical assistant professor of Surgery, Jefferson, will be on hand live to answer questions online from viewers.

Breast Reconstruction Surgical Webcast For Breast Cancer Awareness Month

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Pill helps alcoholics taper off drinking

New hope helping with curing alcoholism...The drug costs at least $350 a month, plus the price of doctor's visits but the patent expires next year for Topamax...BD

CHICAGO - A migraine pill seems to help alcoholics taper off their drinking without detox treatment, researchers report, offering a potential option for a hard-to-treat problem. The drug, Topamax, works in a different way than three other medications already approved for treating alcoholism. Experts said the drug is likely to appeal to heavy drinkers who would rather seek help from their own doctors, rather than enter a rehab clinic to dry out. The drug costs at least $350 a month, plus the price of doctor's visits. But side effects are a problem, and it's unclear whether the findings will make a dent in an addiction that affects millions of Americans.

Doctors are free to prescribe drugs for uses that have not been approved, but drug companies are prohibited by law from marketing drugs for these so-called "off-label" uses.

Pill helps alcoholics taper off drinking - Yahoo! News

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The Stanford IT doctor is in (this stuff could save your life)

Great interview from Robert Scoble with Dr. Lopnghurst...anybody that has been around the web knows Mr. Scoble from his days with Microsoft and Channel 9...he's still around doing some great interviews and this one happens to be about healthcare and this interview covers a number of topics as it relates to Medical IT.  It is 47 minutes long as he mentions, so go get your cup of coffee before you get started.  Very interesting to see and hear about some of the new innovations coming about in health care and how they are being used..we'll forget that the doctor doesn't like tablets though...(grin).  BD 

Here's one example: Christopher Longhurst. He's a doctor at Stanford's Lucille Packard Children's Hospital. He also works in the IT department there. Since our son was born there three weeks ago, and we got a close up look at the computers and other devices strewn through the hospital (free wifi!) I wanted to get the behind-the-scenes look. The most interesting thing? Is just how many mistakes get made in hospitals and how information technology is being used to keep those errors from happening.

The Stanford IT doctor is in (this stuff could save your life) « Scobleizer

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Disabled less likely to be online

But there are answers and help for the disabled to enjoy the Internet as well..and Dr. Google appears to be well and alive in most circles with chronic care conditions...BD 

NEW YORK - Americans with disabilities and other chronic conditions are less likely to use the Internet, but those who are online are among the most avid consumers of health-related information, a new study finds.  Half of those with chronic conditions use the Internet, compared with three-quarters of those without, the Pew Internet and American Life Project said Monday.

The study found the chronic population far more likely to look for information about medication, specific treatments and procedures and alternative treatments and medicines — all by margins exceeding the potential sampling error.

Study: Disabled less likely to be online - Yahoo! News

But that doesn't mean handicapped Americans with disabilities are not using the web....see what a UMPC EO Tablet did for this individual who has lost the use of his arms and uses a mouse stick....(click on the picture to see the full story)  BD

Hat Tip:  GottabeMobile.com

And another example of handicapped software for handicapped individuals below...

http://ducknetweb.blogspot.com/search?q=handicapped+tablet

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Personal Health Vault - Physicians arm thyself..

Last week I wrote about the new "Health Vault" from Microsoft and thought perhaps it might be appropriate to add a little more about the process...are you ready for your first patient to arrive with their Health Vault and ready to share information? Think about this...it might not be one of your senior patients (but then again it could as we have many astute and computer savvy seniors these days) but before too much longer, mark my words, this day will be coming. How are you going to handle this? Hmmmmmm.....might be a good time to read up here a bit...and practice and set up your own Health Vault. Many younger patients will find absolutely no barriers with using the Vault as they are more than like already engaged in web based "photo sharing" web sites and know the routine. Do you share photos and are you familiar with the routine? No? Well there's no time like the present, if you will and let's start saving some trees too.

What makes this different from other solutions....there are many items and they are positive..first of all there is no involvement of any insurance agencies and let's hope it stays that way so you and the patient will be able to continue and grow the doctor patient relationship with trust. The search items available for patient education can also be a huge asset for you as well, just give this some thought and where else could you direct a patient to go for a one stop site with a dashboard to not only find a multitude of answers, but be able to update their Vault at the same time...and the advertisements presented are also related to medical conditions searched and offer links to books for purchase should a patient want to increase their knowledge and health awareness further. Now how can you beat that deal?

What are you going to do when your patient asks you to share information to their Health Vault? The last words one would want to hear at this point would be...duh...or what is that. To build confidence with patients I don't think one would want to come back with not having at least some knowledge of what the patient is attempting to do in the interest of their own health care...and...this will serve to benefit you and other physicians as well when time moves on.

New patient scenario....and they have a vault...hmmmmm...wouldn't it really be helpful to have some files with some past history...copy of an EKG from another facility, etc. Just think of what can be possible. A few clicks with the mouse on a PC or Tablet PC sure beats dragging out paper charts...agree? For those MDs who are already using electronic records, they will have the jump on this.

Look at who's already in synch here...Mayo Clinic, and check this out....for even more good stuff...

http://www.healthvault.com/ConnectionCenter/

These folks are already set to begin collecting data from blood pressure monitors, heart rate monitors, etc...need I say more.....some of the footwork has already been done for you...

HealthVault Connection Center is a utility you can use with your HealthVault account to add data to your Health Records from health and fitness devices such as heart-rate monitors, blood pressure monitors, and so on.
When you use HealthVault Connection Center, data from your device is imported into your computer and then uploaded to HealthVault. You can view the data in HealthVault Connection Center before and after uploading it.
You can also use HealthVault Connection Center to launch HealthVault programs such as HealthVault Search.
Microsoft HealthVault Connection Center: Be well. Connected.

Are you a cardiologist collecting heart rate information?

And there is more....

I'll use the One Touch Glucose monitor as an example...tells the patient exactly how to connect the unit to their PC...

FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE STEPS TO GET STARTED

1. Download & Install the OneTouch^® Blood Glucose Meter device driver.
   In order for the Microsoft^® HealthVault™ Connection Center to recognize and properly communicate with your OneTouch^® Blood Glucose Meter, you will need to download and install the most recent device driver.
2. Make sure you have the proper OneTouch™ USB Interface Cable and OneTouch™ USB Interface Cable Driver.
   • Before you can upload your blood glucose results to your Microsoft^® HealthVault™ account, you will need a OneTouch™ USB Interface Cable to connect your OneTouch^® Blood Glucose Meter to your computer. For a limited time, LifeScan is offering this interface Cable at NO CHARGE to qualified customers.

Ok now that we are set up...here's the beauty of this...your patient is connected with the unit, uploads the information and shares the file with you...how much better does this get!! I don't know unless you want to muddle through huge files of paper or rely on verbal information, which may or may not be accurate.

We all want accurate and credible information when it comes to health records and this is an absolute correct choice for going in the right direction. It just might save some time and give you some personal time back for family or other activities too, so...once more I say...arm thyself for the "Informed patient" so you are prepared and we can all work together for better patient health care.

The Medical Quack: Microsoft Health Records - Special Review and Basic Information

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The MedFriendly Blog - Medical Quack guest blogger

This week I was invited to be a "guest' blogger for the MedFriendly blog.  I have also added links in the right hand column to the blog and medical reference site.  MedFriendly blog is the creation of Dominic Carone, Ph.D from Syracuse, New York and he also publishes a web site, MedFriendly which offers an easy to understand format for medical terms and definitions.   Stop by the MedFriendly site to see what else is new and happening in the world of Neuropsychology.  One word for the picture representation, priceless...BD 

"I will return to the "Publish or Perish" blog series tomorrow, but today it is time for the weekly guest blog entry. This weeks guest blog entry was written exclusive for MedFriendly by Barbara Duck, who tongue-in-cheek refers to herself as The Medical Quack. Her entry discusses what she does so without further ado, I turn it over to The Medical Quack...."

The MedFriendly Blog

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Kids and Tablet PCs

Wondering how easy tablets are to use...this is a great post from the folks over at GottaBeMobile, showing a 2 year old working with a tablet...hmmmm...how easy and simple using a tablet can really be...watch the 2 year old challenge..not only is a tablet a professional tool, but can also be an excellent learning tool for children...BD 

Amazing - watch Kaylee, a two year-old, as she uses a Tablet PC to play a game, closes the TIP and notepad when it interferes with her game, etc. She is really good with that pen! This reminds me how much my little ones loved playing with my Tablet P.

Tablet PC and Ultra-Mobile PC News and Reviews - GottaBeMobile.com - Kids and Tablet PCs

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Brain eating amoeba in lake kills sixth victim

A Texas boy has become the sixth person this summer to die from brain eating amoeba. Jack Herrara aged 12 died after his brain was attacked by the Naegleria fowleri amoeba after swimming in a lake; three of the other victims were in Florida and one was in Arizona. Recent tests have shown that the brain-eating amoeba is present in Tucson's water supply, but experts say the microscopic bug does not pose any health risks because the water is chlorinated before distribution, which kills Naegleria fowleri before the water reaches the taps. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says Naegleria fowleri is found worldwide, most commonly in warm bodies of freshwater, such as lakes, rivers, hot springs, water discharged from industrial plants, poorly maintained and minimally chlorinated swimming pools and in the soil.

Brain eating amoeba in lake kills sixth victim

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Health Insurance lottery is Tuesday

One more new twist in the insurance game...this county is holding a lottery...to choose those who can be offered a policy at a discounted rate...Kaiser Permanente..one catch here, some of the folks who's name may be drawn still can't afford it..it's almost like winning the Lotto with no jack pot...but the one good point about the program is that if you are chosen via the lottery you will be covered no matter what pre-existing conditions you have...so it sounds as if the lottery is only good for those who can afford to play...BD 

Like the thousands of Howard County residents who are without health insurance, Carol Ray cannot afford preventive health care or visits to the dentist. A mother of two teenage boys, Ray, 45, said her $25,000-a-year secretarial job at a small extermination company can cover her apartment's rent and utilities and other necessities, but not private health insurance.

The first step of the program, announced last month by County Executive Ken Ulman, will give 175 county residents the opportunity to buy a discounted two-year insurance plan through Kaiser Permanente. A lottery will be held Tuesday to determine the recipients.

"Whatever your state of health, if you're chosen through the lottery, we'll cover you," said Kaiser Mid-Atlantic President Marilyn Kawamura.

County health insurance lottery is Tuesday -- baltimoresun.com

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Medicaid Rx pad security rule is delayed ...

Don't want to deal with this...sign up for free e-prescribing now...follow the reference link on the right hand column of this page to NEPSI...it's free for all physicians and you now have 6 more months to get set up...or...deal with this...paper!!   BD

Washington -- Physicians and pharmacists now have six more months to prepare for a law requiring many Medicaid prescriptions to be written on tamper-resistant pads. Congress adopted the delay in late September. President Bush signed the measure Sept. 29 -- two days before the new law was to take effect.

AMNews: Oct. 15, 2007. Medicaid Rx pad security rule is delayed ... American Medical News

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Sex after chronic heart failure

Good news for many, Mayo Clinic study says it's ok...BD

Although medication can help extend the lives of men with chronic heart failure, several factors associated with this disease can interfere with a person's ability to engage in and enjoy sexual activities. Fatigue, depression, medication side effects and the fear of damaging the heart can cause people with chronic heart failure to lose interest in sex or wonder whether this activity is safe for them. A literature review published in the October issue of Mayo Clinic Proceedings finds that with proper screening and treatment, many patients with chronic heart failure can safely engage in sexual activity.

One study the authors reviewed measured these changes in middle-aged men with and without coronary artery disease. This study found that the peak heart rate during intercourse was lower than heart rates measured during the patients' normal daily activities.

Sex after chronic heart failure

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The Feds are asking doctors to supply Medicare quality data for free

The story of the "G"Codes...BD

How HMO participation affects data reporting

In Sacramento, CA, IPAs are already measuring the performance of FP Ronald Sockolov and his three partners. One of those IPAs, Hill Physicians Medical Group, is holding a substantial part of their reimbursement hostage to meeting quality goals for both senior and commercial HMO members. But Sockolov says his group has done well by trying hard to ensure that every designated patient receives appropriate services.

The G-code burden bothers FP Jeffrey K. Pearson of San Diego less than the way Medicare currently reimburses him. If CMS changed its geographical fee adjustment for San Diego, where its payments are much lower than those in nearby Los Angeles, he might be inclined to do voluntary data reporting. Otherwise, he sees no reason to pay staff to harvest that information.

In any case, Pearson doesn't believe that quality reporting will actually lead to a CMS pay increase down the line. What he and his colleagues suspect, he says, is that if you're not reporting, "they'll take money away from you, but they're not going to give you additional money."

http://www.memag.com/memag/article/articleDetail.jsp?id=333259&pageID=1&sk=&date=

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Health care - The vault is open

**This is the key...no data mining and what makes the Health Vault a realistic personal health record repository...BD 

Health Vault's search engine would definitely work better than those of rival sites if it could examine users' health records and past queries, and thus provide the responses that are most relevant to each individual's situation.

**But in order to attract any users in the first place, Microsoft has promised to enforce strict privacy rules. These, says Mr Nolan, would preclude such data-mining.

Sean Nolan of Microsoft explains that the business model depends on one thing: targeted search. Microsoft is betting that people will use its Health Vault Search to find out about their ailments. This service relies on an approach known as “vertical search” which attempts to provide more relevant results than generalist search engines like Google and Yahoo! by specializing in a particular field. The firm's recent acquisition of Medstory, a vertical-search engine focusing on health care, has given it a boost in this area.

Health care | The vault is open | Economist.com

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