Medical Quack

Microsoft Surface Video - could this help with medical coding?

Microsoft Surface Video - could this help with medical coding?

Time for another look at Surface. I also couldn't help but think how this might be a real help for billing with electronic medical reco...

Friday, June 22, 2007

Michael Moore Is Not Worried About 'Sicko' Leak

Thanks Michael, now I don't feel so guilty about watching it on Google..and can't wait to see part 2 at the movies.  As I wrote before I thought I was viewing another trailer for the movie and realized this was the real thing and couldn't stop myself as I got started, but that represents how compelling and informative the movie really is.  BD <blockquote> <h5>Michael Moore Is Not Worried About 'Sicko' Leak </h5> <a href="http://www.starpulse.com/Movies/Sicko/"><img align="right" alt="Sicko" border="0" src="http://images.starpulse.com/Photos/Thumbs/Sicko-movie-01.jpg" title="Sicko"></a>Filmmaker <a href="http://www.starpulse.com/Actors/Moore,_Michael/">Michael Moore</a> insists he doesn't care his new documentary <a href="http://www.starpulse.com/Movies/Sicko/">Sicko</a> has been leaked online - he's just glad people get to watch his movie. <a> </a></blockquote> <a href="http://www.starpulse.com/news/index.php/2007/06/22/michael_moore_is_not_worried_about_sicko">Michael Moore Is Not Worried About 'Sicko' Leak - Starpulse News Blog</a>

Michael Moore Is Not Worried About 'Sicko' Leak

Thanks Michael, now I don't feel so guilty about watching it on Google..and can't wait to see part 2 at the movies. As I wrote befo...

Friday, June 22, 2007

HIPAA Loophole Allows Pharmacies To Sell Patient Data

This is a bit scary as the physicians need our consent, but it appears the pharmacies are not under the same rules so in essence the information can be shared with any pharmacy?  BD A loophole in the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act allows pharmacies to "auction off" patient information -- such as their prescriptions, medical conditions, Social Security numbers and health insurance records -- "to the highest bidder," Sen. Charles Schumer said on Monday, <a href="http://www.newsday.com/search/ny-nydrug195261791jun19,0,6964996.story">Long Island <cite>Newsday</cite></a> reports (Perez, Long Island <cite>Newsday</cite>, 6/19). The HIPAA Federal Privacy Rule, implemented in 2003, allows health care providers to share patient medical records for the purposes of treatment and other "health care operations." Providers do not have to obtain written consent before they disclose medical records but are required to inform patients of their rights and make a "good-faith effort" to obtain written acknowledgment from patients that they have received the information. Providers must obtain consent from patients before they can disclose medical records in "nonroutine" cases. However, Schumer said that the rule allows pharmacies to sell patient information to other pharmacies without their consent. Schumer has asked <a href="http://www.hhs.gov/">HHS</a> Secretary Mike Leavitt to revise the rule to require pharmacies to obtain consent from patients before they sell or transfer their information (Long Island <cite>Newsday</cite>, 6/19). <a href="http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=74852&nfid=rssfeeds">HIPAA Loophole Allows Pharmacies To Sell Patient Data, Schumer Says</a>

HIPAA Loophole Allows Pharmacies To Sell Patient Data

This is a bit scary as the physicians need our consent, but it appears the pharmacies are not under the same rules so in essence the informa...

Friday, June 22, 2007

Touch-Sensitive Window Shopping

Done as a promo in England, but shows more touch screen and surface technology and perhaps soon we can see this go to work for radiology for one.  BD <blockquote> <h4> <a href="http://www.switched.com/bloggers/tim-stevens"></a><a href="http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/techinnovations/2007-06-20-ralph-lauren-window-shopping_N.htm"><img alt="Touch-Sensitive Window Shopping" border="0" hspace="4" src="http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.switched.com/media/2007/06/switched-402cc062107.jpg" vspace="4"></a></h4> Ralph Lauren is working to make window shopping a little more productive for you (and more profitable, of course). The company has installed a <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/techinnovations/2007-06-20-ralph-lauren-window-shopping_N.htm">78-inch touch-sensitive screen</a> outside of its flagship London store, enabling passers-by to browse through the store's catalog, place orders (payment info is received via phone or e-mail later) and even get tennis tips. Yes, tennis tips. This installation is a temporary one designed to coincide with the Wimbledon tournament and will be disabled in July once the world's best tennis players unlace their grass-stained sneakers and head for home. <a href="http://www.switched.com/2007/06/21/touch-sensitive-window-shopping/">Touch-Sensitive Window Shopping - Switched. Gadgets. Tech. Digital Stuff for the Rest of Us.</a></blockquote>

Touch-Sensitive Window Shopping

Done as a promo in England, but shows more touch screen and surface technology and perhaps soon we can see this go to work for radiology for...

Friday, June 22, 2007

Open Wide and Say "Shame"

Nice review from the New York Times.  BD  <blockquote> <img align="right" alt="" border="0" height="172" src="http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2007/06/21/arts/22sicko600.1.jpg" width="305"> It has become a journalistic cliché and therefore an inevitable part of the prerelease discussion of <a href="http://movies2.nytimes.com/gst/movies/movie.html?v_id=352610&inline=nyt_ttl">“Sicko”</a> to refer to <a href="http://movies2.nytimes.com/gst/movies/filmography.html?p_id=103383&inline=nyt-per">Michael Moore</a> as a controversial, polarizing figure. While that description is not necessarily wrong, it strikes me as self-fulfilling (since the controversy usually originates in media reports on how controversial Mr. Moore is) and trivial. Any filmmaker, politically outspoken or not, whose work is worth discussing will be argued about. But in Mr. Moore’s case the arguments are more often about him than about the subjects of his movies. He is insisting that such a system should exist, and also, rather ingeniously, daring his critics to explain why it shouldn’t.</blockquote> <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2007/06/22/movies/22sick.html?pagewanted=1&8dpc&_r=1">Sicko - Movies - Review - New York Times</a>

Open Wide and Say "Shame"

Nice review from the New York Times. BD It has become a journalistic cliché and therefore an inevitable part of the prerelease discussi...

Thursday, June 21, 2007

Medicexchange - Radiology Imaging, Radiology News and more all in one place

<blockquote> Medicexchange does a nice job of bringing many areas of interest and assistance  together under one site in reference to <a href="http://www.medicexchange.com/mall/departmentpage.cfm/MedicExchangeUSA">medical imaging</a>.  The main page focuses on <a href="http://www.medicexchange.com/mall/departmentpage.cfm/MedicExchangeUSA">radiology</a> and <a href="http://www.medicexchange.com/mall/departmentpage.cfm/MedicExchangeUSA">medical imaging news</a> along with links to the community and support forums.  In addition, another section is devoted to trial software, available for download.  The software has a quick review section to give the basics on how the software is best used along with some additional installations hints.  The specialty areas are as follows:  <img align="right" src="http://www.medicexchange.com/portals/MedicExchange/p_contentImages/1876_1.jpg"> <a href="http://www.medicexchange.com/mall/departmentpage.cfm/MedicExchangeUSA/_81695">Breast Imaging Radiology</a> <a href="http://www.medicexchange.com/mall/departmentpage.cfm/MedicExchangeUSA/_81694">Abdominal-Pelvic Radiology</a> <a href="http://www.medicexchange.com/mall/departmentpage.cfm/MedicExchangeUSA/_81697">Thoracic Radiology</a> <a href="http://www.medicexchange.com/mall/departmentpage.cfm/MedicExchangeUSA/_81693">Cardiac Radiology</a> <img align="right" src="http://www.medicexchange.com/portals/MedicExchange/p_contentImages/1514_1.jpg"> <a href="http://www.medicexchange.com/mall/departmentpage.cfm/MedicExchangeUSA/_81696">Musculoskeletal Radiology</a> <a href="http://www.medicexchange.com/mall/departmentpage.cfm/MedicExchangeUSA/_96103">Neuro Radiology</a> By registering and becoming a member, you can always be updated on the latest and updated news.  RSS Feeds are also available.  The page works very well to easily enable anyone to locate a vendor product.  I found new and innovative products on the site that I was not aware of, thus it is worth checking back to see what new developments have entered the market.  There is a simple and easy to use <a href="http://www.medicexchange.com/mall/departmentpage.cfm/MedicExchangeUSA/_94983">radiology software directory</a> for quick reference as well as additional medical software listings.  The page has several software and dicom type images to view so you can get a pretty synopsis on how the software screens function and the quality of imaging associated.  This is also a great spot for new vendors to introduce products or even for established vendors to showcase current and new offerings.   In today's world it can be very tedious and time consuming to search the Internet for the information you need and this site takes a lot of the leg work out of the process when you need the information the most.  </blockquote> Source:  <a href="http://www.medicexchange.com/mall/departmentpage.cfm/MedicexchangeUSA">Medicexchange | Radiology Imaging, Radiology News, Radiology Research Articles, Radiology Imaging Software - Medicexchange, Radiology Studies</a> (Sponsored Post)

Medicexchange - Radiology Imaging, Radiology News and more all in one place

Medicexchange does a nice job of bringing many areas of interest and assistance together under one site in reference to medical imaging...

Thursday, June 21, 2007

Health Care Merger Raises Concerns in Las Vegas

It is bad enough having to fight cancer, but add 2 insurance mergers to the picture and it can really get complicated, and this woman is in the HMO business.  BD <blockquote> A potential medical merger is still raising questions with some Las Vegas Valley residents. United Health Group, a massive national brand, wants to merge with Nevada's Sierra Health Services. Some critics say valley health care could suffer. Shelli Miller is fighting two battles. Her Medicare HMO benefits were cut after one of United Health's previous mergers and now she's fighting to keep that from happening in Las Vegas. But there's another battle, a battle raging inside her body. For this fast talking Chicago native, that fight has only just begun. Shelli Miller's previous experience with a United Health Group merger makes her skeptical Miller knows the HMO business backwards and forwards. A retired nurse and HMO consultant, she knows it's all about the bottom line. But her second battle continues. It's a battle with breast cancer. "I went through close to 40 radiation treatments. I had surgery, partial mastectomy initially," she explained. Now, 60 chemotherapy sessions later, the cancer is in remission and this new fight wages on. Miller continued, "And I thought my biggest battle was fighting the cancer and instead, the biggest enemy became United Health care." And Shelli Miller won't stop until the valley's healthcare gets a much-needed boost even if it means less time in therapy and a slower recovery. The insurance commission will get first crack at approving the merger. They held a public hearing last week, and so far, a second public hearing hasn't been scheduled. As for Shelli, the outlook is positive and she hopes to have no problems in the future.</blockquote> <a href="http://www.lasvegasnow.com/global/story.asp?s=6681834">LasVegasNOW.com | News for Las Vegas, Nevada - Health Care Merger Raises Concerns in Las Vegas</a>

Health Care Merger Raises Concerns in Las Vegas

It is bad enough having to fight cancer, but add 2 insurance mergers to the picture and it can really get complicated, and this woman is in ...

Thursday, June 21, 2007

Medical records mix-up led to denial of benefits

How important is accuracy and protection of medical records - denial of benefits could occur and this case went all the way to court.  BD <blockquote> LITTLE ROCK - A decision by the state Workers' Compensation Commission to deny disability benefits to a Pine Bluff woman was based on a review of the wrong patient's medical record, the state Court of Appeals found Wednesday. The appeals court reversed the commission's decision in the case of Diana Vaughan, who reported pain in her neck, right shoulder and right arm following her shift at a Pine Bluff bakery on Sept. 17, 1997. Vaughan returned to work the next day but had to leave because of increased pain, according to court records. In a unanimous decision, the commission ruled that Vaughan was not entitled to temporary total disability compensation later than June 15, 2005, because her healing period had ended by that date. In its decision reversing the ruling, the state Court of Appeals said the commission's decision "quoted in full and then relied on" a medical record that was not Vaughan's. The court noted that in a letter accompanying the medical record, Vaughan's attorney advises the defendants' attorney that he is enclosing information about a different client who also was treated by the same doctor. The Workers' Compensation Commission mistakenly relied on that record - which states that the patient's healing period ended June 15, 2005 - as if it were Vaughan's, the Court of Appeals found. "The commission's erroneous factual findings require our reversal of its decision, and we remand this case to the commission for its full examination of the relevant evidence presented," Judge Josephine Linker Hart wrote.</blockquote> <a href="http://www.arkansasnews.com/archive/2007/06/21/News/342482.html">Arkansas News Bureau - Court: Medical records mix-up led to denial of benefits</a>

Medical records mix-up led to denial of benefits

How important is accuracy and protection of medical records - denial of benefits could occur and this case went all the way to court. BD ...

Thursday, June 21, 2007

Popularity of medical insurance increases in the UK

This is an interesting turn of events with recent news and the initiative to move to a new health care system in the US.  BD <img align="right" alt="Knee" src="http://www.moneyhighstreet.com/import/images/Knee_760_18186826_0_0_4933_200.jpg" width="133">More people from the UK are opting for private medical insurance, a new study has found. According to the Association of British Insurers (ABI), 2006 was the first year in recent times when the number of people opting for private medical insurance (PMI) increased. "It also takes pressure off the NHS, so by buying PMI, people are effectively reducing the burden on Britain's hard-pressed health service. "It is encouraging that more individuals are choosing to buy PMI for themselves and their families." Mr Starling also pointed out that more companies seemed to be buying medical insurance for their workers. Recently, another spokesperson for the ABI said that people who were obese were likely to find their medical and life insurance premiums increase. <a href="http://www.moneyhighstreet.com/news/18186826+Popularity+of+medical+insurance+increases/">Popularity of medical insurance increases : Insurance News : MoneyHighStreet.com</a>

Popularity of medical insurance increases in the UK

This is an interesting turn of events with recent news and the initiative to move to a new health care system in the US. BD More people fr...

Thursday, June 21, 2007

Doctor has medical license suspended

<blockquote> A Needham doctor, whose offices were raided by state and federal officials in May, had his medical license suspended Wednesday, June 20, after state officials deemed his practices a threat to the public. The order of suspension said the doctor provided poor care to 30 patients, while several patients, who were prescribed drugs such as Oxycodone, Percocet, and methadone, died within days after visits. The document listed 30 cases of poor care, with patients dying unexpectedly in eight instances. Among the eight deaths, at least five people died within three days after visiting Zolot, who does not live in Needham. A spokesman for the Board of Registration said he could not elaborate on the contents of the document. The DEA, FBI, Internal Revenue Service, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Massachusetts State Police, Needham Police, Boston Police and Norfolk County Anti-Crime Unit executed a search warrant Thursday, May 17, at Zolot’s office. No charges have been filed. Zolot was featured in a Needham Times article last month, which described the doctor’s unusual pain relief techniques, such as injections of Sarapin, a pitcher plant extract, and Hyalagan, liquid cartilage from rooster combs.</blockquote> <a href="http://www.townonline.com/needham/homepage/x457498478">Needham doctor has medical license suspended - Needham, MA - Needham Times</a>

Doctor has medical license suspended

A Needham doctor, whose offices were raided by state and federal officials in May, had his medical license suspended Wednesday, June 20,...

Thursday, June 21, 2007

Hospitals to provide more information on Medicare discharge appeals process

<img border="0" height="5" src="http://www.news-leader.com/graphics/trans.gif" width="10"> <blockquote> Beginning July 2, hospitals will be required to provide patients with more timely information about the Medicare discharge appeals process. Hospitals will expand steps currently taken to ensure patients receive a document called the "Important Message from Medicare" closer to their discharge. This outlines the rights provided to patients under Medicare. In the past, hospitals provided notice of this process on admission through the Important Message from Medicare. Under the new rules, hospitals must also provide the patient with a copy of the Important Message close to discharge and help Medicare beneficiaries understand their rights. “Regardless of the appeal outcome, Medicare beneficiaries are protected from liability for costs of continued hospitalization during the appeals process,” Royer said.</blockquote> <a href="http://www.news-leader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070621/BREAKING01/70621046">News-Leader.com | Updates - News</a>

Hospitals to provide more information on Medicare discharge appeals process

Beginning July 2 , hospitals will be required to provide patients with more timely information about the Medicare discharge appeals proc...

Thursday, June 21, 2007

Family of woman who died on L.A. hospital floor to sue

You can't hardly blame the family at all here with the recorded tape showing all.  This is truly a sad day for the health industry when complacency drives workers to this point and the scary thing is that it could occur anywhere if all conditions were right.  It's truly a very sad learning experience for all.  BD <blockquote> LOS ANGELES -- The family of a woman who died last month on the floor of an emergency room lobby is planning to take legal action against Martin Luther King Jr.-Harbor Hospital and Los Angeles County. A letter of intent warning of a wrongful death and medical malpractice lawsuit was sent Wednesday to the county-run hospital and a registered nurse on behalf of the children of Edith Isabel Rodriguez. Another letter was sent to the county warning of the family's intention to file claims, said the family's attorney, Franklin Casco, Jr.</blockquote> <a href="http://www.ocregister.com/ocregister/news/state/article_1739798.php">Article - News - Family of woman who died on L.A. hospital floor to sue</a>

Family of woman who died on L.A. hospital floor to sue

You can't hardly blame the family at all here with the recorded tape showing all. This is truly a sad day for the health industry when ...

Thursday, June 21, 2007

Review: Sicko, Flawed But Brilliant - Politics on The Huffington Post

I thought it was a great film, flawed deeply, as Moore's films are but with an important message nonetheless. But that said, Moore's on to something deep and true and powerful. The American health care system is a mess, on that we all agree. We are the only Western country that doesn't provide universal care and allows its citizens to descend into poverty if they face a life threatening illness. The horror stories in Sicko are all too real -- the woman who is denied reimbursement for an ambulance ride after a car accident because it wasn't "pre-approved," the insurance company that will pay for only one cochlear implant for a baby losing its hearing (until the father threatens to sick Moore on them). I wound myself a bit weepy when hearing the stories of Canadians and Brits who visit the hospital, get treated and walk out without ever seeing a bill and who are utterly bemused when Moore brilliantly asks them if their HMO signed off on their treatment or how they'll pay the bill. Moore asks the right question: Why can't we be free from this worry? <a href="http://del.icio.us/post?v=4&noui&jump=close&url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/matt-cooper/sicko-flawed-bu_b_53190.html&title=Matt%20Cooper:%20%3Cem%3ESicko%3C%2Fem%3E%2C%20Flawed%20But%20Brilliant"></a> <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/matt-cooper/sicko-flawed-bu_b_53190.html">Matt Cooper: Sicko, Flawed But Brilliant - Politics on The Huffington Post</a>

Review: Sicko, Flawed But Brilliant - Politics on The Huffington Post

I thought it was a great film, flawed deeply, as Moore's films are but with an important message nonetheless. But that said, Moore...

Thursday, June 21, 2007

California Hospitals - OK for Now

WASHINGTON, June 21 (UPI) -- A predicted crisis in <a href="http://www.upi.com/Health_Business/Briefing/2007/06/21/study_calif_hospitals_ok__for_now/1652/#">California</a> hospitals has not materialized, but the overall picture is still not rosy, a U.S. report says. <blockquote> Previous studies had predicted that a growing gap between wealthy and struggling hospitals in the state would lead to widespread closures of under-performing hospitals. But the general financial health of California hospitals has actually improved over the last five years, according to a new analysis by consulting firm PriceWaterhouseCoopers. Although one-third of the state's hospitals continue to lose money, only 28 hospitals actually closed over the period, according to the report. That rate was on pace with the five years before the study.</blockquote> <a href="http://www.upi.com/Health_Business/Briefing/2007/06/21/study_calif_hospitals_ok__for_now/1652/">United Press International - Health Business - Briefing</a>

California Hospitals - OK for Now

WASHINGTON, June 21 (UPI) -- A predicted crisis in California hospitals has not materialized, but the overall picture is still not rosy,...

Thursday, June 21, 2007

Too young for health insurance? Maybe not

For a look at how an example of how some young adults view health insurance, take a look at a <a href="http://ducknetweb.blogspot.com/2007/06/uninsured-in-us.html" target="_blank">video</a> from an earlier post.  BD <blockquote> The 22- and 23-year-olds Etti Baranoff teaches look fit and healthy. But Baranoff is a finance professor at Virginia Commonwealth University who studies risk and the insurance industry. She tries to convince the young adults they are one catastrophic illness or accident away from needing thousands of dollars in health care. One student, recently kicked off a parent's health insurance policy at age 23, broke his leg playing soccer.   Afterward, he tried to get short-term insurance. It was too late. The leg was a pre-existing condition. When he could find a policy to cover him, the premiums soared to $400 a month. The parting lesson?  "Don't go without," Baranoff said. "If you're young and healthy, you can get unbelievably cheap coverage," she added. </blockquote> <a href="http://fredericksburg.com/News/FLS/2007/062007/06212007/291855">Fredericksburg.com - Too young for health insurance?Maybe not</a>

Too young for health insurance? Maybe not

For a look at how an example of how some young adults view health insurance, take a look at a video from an earlier post. BD The 22- and...

Thursday, June 21, 2007

Drug Delivery System: EMMA

One more product added to the electronic pill solution.  If you read through the archives on the site, there are a few others with recent FDA approval.  BD <blockquote> The Electronic Medication Management Assistant (EMMA™) is a tool for enhancing the practice of Evidence Based Medicine in a home setting. The EMMA delivery unit is placed in the patient's home, and it communicates wirelessly to the patient's electronic Medication Administration Record (eMAR™) to get the latest dosing schedule for the patient.<img align="left" src="http://www.inrangesystems.com/images/modSmall.jpg"> The EMMA delivery unit manages everything for the patient from there. This unique medical device holds up to 10 prescriptions, totaling 300 individual doses of medication. If a patient requires more than 10 prescriptions, auxiliary units may be daisy chained together to form a single unit.  </blockquote> <a href="http://www.inrangesystems.com/emma.html">Drug Delivery System: EMMA</a>

Drug Delivery System: EMMA

One more product added to the electronic pill solution. If you read through the archives on the site, there are a few others with recent FD...

Thursday, June 21, 2007

Robotics - a replacement for the family dog, I sure hope not!

Although I find this interesting, dogs are are source of tranquility for patients and have a lot to offer for the sense of well being, but having a robotic toy do the same?  Will the children we raise today prefer an electronic pet to a real dog and are we crossing the line here?  I think as the younger generation continues to evolve their careers in the medical business, sometimes item such as this tend to confuse matters in the fact that we lose sight of the fact that we are dealing with real human life and this is not just a toy or game, but rather real technology being used for better health care or to save a life.  BD <blockquote> WHEN I FIRST MEET PLEO, the tiny dinosaur is curled up on a kitchen table, its long tail and big head pulled inward. It's snoring quietly, emitting a strangely soothing sound, almost like the amplified purring of a guinea pig. I'm tempted to reach out and touch it – but it looks so peaceful, I can't bring myself to disturb it. | Then I realize what I'm doing: I'm worrying about waking up a robot. | Caleb Chung seems to understand my reluctance. "It's OK," the toy's inventor says, motioning to the little green lizard. "You can touch him." But before I do, Pleo wakes up on its own, fluttering open its doelike eyes and lifting its head. There's a barely perceptible whizzing as its 14 internal motors spring into action and it struggles upright, stretching itself to get the kinks out. "You know, all your dogs do that," Chung says as Pleo begins to poke around the table. "They wake up in the morning and go 'ummmm' – just like that." The dino lets out a long, creaky honk. <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/E0C55PEcj5E" width="425" height="350" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent"></embed></blockquote> <a href="http://www.wired.com/wired/archive/15.01/alive.html">Wired 15.01: It's Alive!</a> <a href="http://www.pleoworld.com/" target="_blank">http://www.pleoworld.com/</a> Hat Tip:  <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2007/06/21/pleo-ready-for-us-pre-order-349-for-your-eventual-destruction/" target="_blank">Engadget</a>

Robotics - a replacement for the family dog, I sure hope not!

Although I find this interesting, dogs are are source of tranquility for patients and have a lot to offer for the sense of well being, but h...

Thursday, June 21, 2007

German teen unplugs pensioner's 'noisy' life support machine

This is scary and how it happened is even more scary.  With all the new medical devices out there today, it might be best to ask questions first as this could have cost someone their life and it did provide the teen a nice visit to the police station.  <blockquote> Police in Southern Germany are quizzing a 17-year-old car crash victim who turned off a fellow hospital patient's life-support machine because it was keeping him awake. Frederik Moelner wound up in intensive care recovering from the accident, reports Ananova, but his attempts to have a bit of recuperative kip were stymied by the noisy life support machine keeping the 76-year-old in the neighboring bed breathing.  Rather than take a sedative, the 17-year-old took matters into his own hands, pulling the plug on the offending piece of medical technology, thus ensuring shut-eye himself and, potentially, the big sleep for his unfortunate neighbor. Luckily medical staff quickly realized what had happened, and reconnected the lucky pensioner. They then connected the sleep deprived 17-year-old with the local police.</blockquote> <a href="http://www.theregister.co.uk/2007/06/19/life_support_off/">German teen unplugs pensioner's 'noisy' life support machine | The Register</a> Hat Tip:  <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2007/06/20/annoyed-hospitalized-teen-unplugs-neighbors-life-support/" target="_blank">Engadget</a>

German teen unplugs pensioner's 'noisy' life support machine

This is scary and how it happened is even more scary. With all the new medical devices out there today, it might be best to ask questions f...

Thursday, June 21, 2007

Gateway Computers to sell EMR subscription software with PCs

One more new approach to electronic medical records through the purchase of a PC.  This is a web based subscription service and not a local server/client solution, so the security of the medical records is as safe as the web server.  Again, something to really think about these days when placing medical information on a web server versus having the information stored locally.  We keep reading the stories about medical and identity information being compromised and the subscription costs are subject to increase at any given time as well.  Medical records software is a personal choice and I'm not sure it can be mass marketed and be placed on a PC like other software at the point of sale.  BD     MedicWare EMR centralizes patient medical records and streamlines the diagnosis and treatment processes, improving overall office efficiencies. The centralization of patient information helps eliminate errors such as misread prescriptions or missed drug allergies, and provides doctors with easy access to patient records while they are out of the office.     Physicians and staff personnel can efficiently and cost-effectively manage appointments, insurance plan information, office visits and examinations, medical histories, lab results, medications and prescriptions.     Interfacing with most practice management and reference laboratory <a href="http://www.tabletpctalk.com/scripts/newspro/viewnews.cgi?id=EElkuFykAAjFeNfnaY#">systems</a>, MedicWare is fully CMS and HIPAA compliant, helping medical practices stay current and compliant with industry standards and regulations. Source:  <a href="http://www.tabletpctalk.com/scripts/newspro/viewnews.cgi?id=EElkuFykAAjFeNfnaY">Tablet PC Talk News</a>

Gateway Computers to sell EMR subscription software with PCs

One more new approach to electronic medical records through the purchase of a PC. This is a web based subscription service and not a local ...

Thursday, June 21, 2007

Vagisil Screening Kit

Another new do it yourself home product....for basic use and recommends a visit to your physician with other symptoms.  BD <blockquote> This number is your vaginal pH. A pH of 4.5 with the symptoms of itching, burning, unusual odor or discharge may be a yeast infection. A pH of 5.0 -7.5 may indicate you have a different kind of vaginal infection. The chart below can be helpful. It is not for diagnosis since infections vary in the way they manifest, but it may be helpful when discussing your symptoms and pH with your doctor. <img align="right" src="http://www.vagisilkit.com/kit2/images/faqprodshot.jpg"> Much like other parts of the body, a woman’s vagina has a pH. A healthy vagina is slightly acidic, with a pH usually in the range of 3.5 to 4.5. A normal vaginal pH measures 4.5 with this kit. The acidity of the vagina helps control bacteria and prevents the infection-causing types of bacteria that like a high pH from overgrowing. When vaginal pH is above its normal range, it may indicate a bacterial infection. There usually are symptoms with an infection. The Vagisil Screening Kit is intended for use by women who have itching, burning, unpleasant odor or unusual discharge. It does not identify specific causes or types of infections. Only your doctor can do that. </a></blockquote> <a href="http://www.vagisilkit.com/kit2/how.shtml">Vagisil Screening Kit 2 - How It Works</a> Hat Tip:  <a href="http://www.medgadget.com/archives/2007/06/new_screening_kit_for_vaginal_infections_1.html" target="_blank">MedGadget</a>

Vagisil Screening Kit

Another new do it yourself home product....for basic use and recommends a visit to your physician with other symptoms. BD This number is ...

Thursday, June 21, 2007

Verizon to Offer Mobile Payments with Obopay - let the cell phone take care of the co-pay

Verizon to Offer Mobile Payments with Obopay - let the cell phone take care of the co-pay

Many are already familiar with PayPal and this is another up and coming potential payment solution. Soon patients may simply be able to wai...

Thursday, June 21, 2007

Nurses, Doctors Announce "Scrubs For SiCKO" Campaign

<blockquote> Planning to spark a fundamental change in national healthcare politics, an unprecedented national coalition of nurses and doctors organizations today announced plans to rally around the openings of Michael Moore's "SiCKO" June 29 to press the campaign for single-payer healthcare, guaranteeing comprehensive, quality healthcare with an expanded and improved Medicare for all. Calling it the "Scrubs for SiCKO" campaign, organizers will recruit registered nurses and doctors to every theater in the nation where "SiCKO" opens to ensure that caregivers - in SiCKO scrubs-are in the audience. The caregivers will distribute information and urge moviegoers to join the drive for a fundamental overhaul of the nation's dysfunctional healthcare system - as is so brilliantly described in "Sicko." They will urge the audience to help pass single-payer/Medicare-for-all-type legislation such as HR 676 now pending in Congress and several states, and make it a central focus of the presidential campaign. Nurses and doctors are serving as co-hosts of "SiCKO" premieres across the nation.</blockquote> <a href="http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=74779&nfid=rssfeeds">Nurses, Doctors Announce "Scrubs For SiCKO" Campaign In Conjunction With Debut Of Michael Moore's Film To Spark Genuine Healthcare Debate</a>

Nurses, Doctors Announce "Scrubs For SiCKO" Campaign

Planning to spark a fundamental change in national healthcare politics, an unprecedented national coalition of nurses and doctors organi...

Thursday, June 21, 2007

Man bursts into flames after being shot by a taser gun

Man bursts into flames after being shot by a taser gun

How safe are these units? BD Officers used the gun after the man had poured gasoline over himself. Police are investigating the firey dea...

Thursday, June 21, 2007

Study: Give Doctors Info on Most Widely Covered Medicare Drugs

I wholeheartedly agree with this.  We are doing our part in linking to the $4.00 generic medications from this site without having to search each retailers site and recommend Epocrates and provide their free web based information link here as well.  This will also come back in pay for performance areas as well for the physicians when patients skip medications and the over all health of the patient demographics is measured.  BD <blockquote> While millions of elderly Americans are skipping medications because they can’t afford them, a new study in the Journal of the American Medical Association offers a solution: Tell doctors upfront which drugs are most widely covered by Medicare so that patients can get their medications faster and more cheaply. R. Adams Dudley, MD, MBA, of UCSF, is senior author of the study, which offers a unique analysis of drug coverage under Medicare Part D formularies, lists of drugs that are paid for or covered under a drug plan. Because formularies vary so widely among Medicare Part D plans and because many states have 50 or more such plans, it is difficult for clinicians to know which drugs are covered for their patients.</blockquote> <a href="http://pubaffairs.ucsf.edu/today/cache/feature/200706192.html">UCSF Today - JAMA Study: Give Doctors Info on Most Widely Covered Medicare Drugs</a>

Study: Give Doctors Info on Most Widely Covered Medicare Drugs

I wholeheartedly agree with this. We are doing our part in linking to the $4.00 generic medications from this site without having to search...

Wednesday, June 20, 2007

Medicare starts online Electronic Medical Records program

And yet one more entry into the online medical records business...probably the biggest entry of all....and the saga continues...I still feel that having a physical presence with you containing medical records still outweighs the benefits of being online overall, although any records can be better than no records in case of an emergency.  BD <blockquote> <a href="http://license.icopyright.net/3.5981?icx_id=20070620-122036-8933"></a>WASHINGTON, June 20 (UPI) -- Some U.S. <a href="http://www.upi.com/Health_Business/Briefing/2007/06/20/medicare_launches_web_healthrecord_pilot/8933/#">Medicare</a> beneficiaries will have access to electronic health records as part of a new pilot project, the agency said Wednesday. The program will give participating seniors a personal health record they can access online that contains information about medical conditions, hospitalizations, doctor visits and medications as part of an overall push for Medicare-wide adoption of electronic health records. Records will be automatically updated using Medicare data, and beneficiaries will be able to add their own information and choose whether to share the record with <a href="http://www.upi.com/Health_Business/Briefing/2007/06/20/medicare_launches_web_healthrecord_pilot/8933/#">healthcare</a> providers, the agency said. To choose the best personal health record format, Medicare is partnering with four private plans that already offer the records: HIP USA, Humana, Kaiser Permanente, and the <a href="http://www.upi.com/Health_Business/Briefing/2007/06/20/medicare_launches_web_healthrecord_pilot/8933/#">University of Pittsburgh</a> Medical Center. </blockquote> <a href="http://www.upi.com/Health_Business/Briefing/2007/06/20/medicare_launches_web_healthrecord_pilot/8933/">United Press International - Health Business - Briefing</a>

Medicare starts online Electronic Medical Records program

And yet one more entry into the online medical records business...probably the biggest entry of all....and the saga continues...I still feel...

Wednesday, June 20, 2007

Michael Moore and "Sicko" go to Congress

<blockquote> Lawmakers who want to establish a publicly financed national health care system hope a new Michael Moore documentary called "Sicko," which highlights current health care delivery problems, will win converts to their cause.<img align="right" src="http://online.wsj.com/public/resources/images/OB-AK641_sicko_20070514135227.jpg"> Moore appeared at a jam-packed Capitol Hill press conference this afternoon to tout his movie and urge support for the United States National Health Insurance Act, authored by Michigan Democratic Rep. John Conyers. Its 74 co-sponsors include Democrats Dennis Kucinich and Stephanie Tubbs Jones of Cleveland, Betty Sutton of Copley Township, Marcy Kaptur of Toledo and Tim Ryan of Niles.</blockquote> <a href="http://blog.cleveland.com/openers/2007/06/health_care_bill_gains_moore_s.html">Health care bill gains Moore support on Capitol Hill - OPENERS</a> Related Story:  <a href="http://washington.bizjournals.com/washington/stories/2007/06/18/daily35.html" target="_blank">http://washington.bizjournals.com/washington/stories/2007/06/18/daily35.html</a>

Michael Moore and "Sicko" go to Congress

Lawmakers who want to establish a publicly financed national health care system hope a new Michael Moore documentary called "Sicko,...

Wednesday, June 20, 2007

IHHI Hospital owner could get new management

<blockquote> Under the terms of IHHI's earlier agreement with its lender, Medical Capital Corp. of Anaheim, removal of Mogel or Anderson could have put IHHI into default on its borrowings. In the new agreement, Medical Capital has agreed that removal of Mogel or Anderson on or after July 1 wouldn't constitute a default. The company that owns about 12 percent of the hospital beds in Orange County soon could get new management. Integrated Healthcare Holdings Inc., which owns four hospitals in the central part of the county, has reached an agreement with its lender that paves the way for a change at the top of the embattled company. In a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission, IHHI said its lender agreed to allow the company to remove its top two executives while it attempts to refinance more than $80 million in debt. IHHI acquired the four hospitals in 2005 from Tenet Healthcare Corpfor about $70 million. The hospitals are Western Medical Center-Santa Ana, Western Medical Center-Anaheim, Chapman Medical Center in Orange and Coastal Communities Hospital in Santa Ana. Medical Capital also withdrew an offer – on the table since February – to refinance IHHI's debt at lower interest rates, saying IHHI delayed too long in accepting the offer.</blockquote> <a href="http://www.ocregister.com/ocregister/news/local/santaana/article_1738234.php">Article - News - Hospital owner could get new management</a>

IHHI Hospital owner could get new management

Under the terms of IHHI's earlier agreement with its lender, Medical Capital Corp. of Anaheim, removal of Mogel or Anderson could h...

Wednesday, June 20, 2007

Movie company to get tough over Sicko leaks

The entire move was also posted on Google.  I did some searching this morning and both are now gone and I have not checked the "torrent" site.  If you read this blog, you know that I have posted the trailers on You Tube that are what has been released thus far and when I was searching for new information I did go to the new posting at the time and started watching and was not aware at first that this was the entire movie posted and thought it was another trailer.  It was in 2 parts on Google and long and short of all of this was I got hooked and could not stop watching.  I did exercise some control here and did not venture on to part 2 in trying to do the right thing and will go to the theatres to see the entire movie on the big screen as it is supposed to be seen.  Whether or not you are a fan of Michael Moore or not, the movie looks to be done very well and documents what he set out to do.  It doesn't cover everything wrong with the system, but rather takes on one very vital portion of the issues, insurance and just taking care of the people of the US and letting the doctors be doctors to help us with better lifestyles and saving us in our times of need.  We have included a couple more videos from "The View" below.  BD <blockquote> <img align="right" alt="Filmmaker Michael Moore watches his documentary SiCKO during a special screening for the California Nurses Association (CNA) in Sacramento. Photo / Reuters" border="0" height="150" src="http://media.apn.co.nz/webcontent/image/jpg/moore5.jpg" width="230"> Filmmaker Michael Moore watches his documentary SiCKO during a special screening for the California Nurses Association (CNA) in Sacramento. Photo / Reuters NEW YORK - YouTube has removed clips of Michael Moore's US health-care expose Sicko that appeared on the site during the weekend, two weeks before the film's June 29 opening. A 124-minute version of Sicko was available on the Google Inc.-owned website, posted by at least two users in 14 consecutive video chunks.</blockquote> <a href="http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/story.cfm?c_id=5&objectid=10446826">Movie company to get tough over Sicko YouTube leaks - 20 Jun 2007 - NZ Herald: Technology News from New Zealand and around the World</a> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/oDh6YiWNi_w" width="425" height="350" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent"></embed> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/iL3nmzazXco" width="425" height="350" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent"> Related Story and Review:  <a href="http://dailyscare.com/1564/why-michael-moores-sicko-is-a-health-care-documentary-every-american-must-see" target="_blank">http://dailyscare.com/1564/why-michael-moores-sicko-is-a-health-care-documentary-every-american-must-see</a></embed>

Movie company to get tough over Sicko leaks

The entire move was also posted on Google. I did some searching this morning and both are now gone and I have not checked the "torrent...

Wednesday, June 20, 2007

The most incredible weight lost story

The most incredible weight lost story

This page has pictures, videos, etc. on his entire weight loss story, including the surgery to remove the excess skin after the fact. BD ...

Wednesday, June 20, 2007

Doctors Survey Shows Strong Support for Health Care Reform

<blockquote> <img alt="" border="0" height="132" src="http://www.californiahealthline.org/articles/2007/6/14/~/media/19EE652D9F074D009130A41C4042E168.ashx" width="189"> Ninety-one percent of California physicians believe the status quo of the health care system in the state is "unsustainable," according to a survey released on Wednesday by the California Medical Association, the <a href="http://www.venturacountystar.com/news/2007/jun/14/most-state-doctors-say-burden-of-paperwork-care/"><cite>Ventura County Star</cite></a> reports. CMA polled 300 physicians in California. The survey found: <ul> <li>80% of physicians said the California health care system is "in crisis" or "in serious trouble"; <li>55% said they have considered leaving the state to practice elsewhere; and <li>81% said they still would choose to become doctors if they were beginning their careers today.</li></ul> Managed Care Targeted The survey did not address specific proposals for overhauling California's health care system. However, most doctors singled out managed care as a major contributor to their dissatisfaction, CMA President Anmol Mahal said. Seventy-six percent cited "limits and restrictions that insurance companies place on doctors" as a serious concern, and 80% said they are unable to spend as much time with patients as necessary to provide quality care. "They dislike the system that has made administrative actions more time-consuming and burdensome," Mahal said (Herdt,</blockquote> <a href="http://www.californiahealthline.org/articles/2007/6/14/Doctors-Survey-Shows-Strong-Support-for-Health-Care-Reform.aspx">Doctors Survey Shows Strong Support for Health Care Reform - California Healthline</a>

Doctors Survey Shows Strong Support for Health Care Reform

Ninety-one percent of California physicians believe the status quo of the health care system in the state is "unsustainable,"...