21st CenturyNursing

Nurses Week Contest

2011-04-23T16:49:00.000-07:00

In observance of the approaching 2011 Nurse's Week, Medical Solutions, Fibers.com and Scrubadoo.com have partnered to bring you Nurse Rock! Nurses Week T-Shirt Design Contest, a contest where Nurses and Nurse-aficionados can create clever and compassionate t-shirt designs all for the appreciation of the Nursing profession.

Beginning April 12, users may submit endless designs using the simple yet powerful Fibers.com design tool. No design skills necessary! Fibers.com has everything you need to create your own contest entry with over 500 fonts and 10,000 images.

All entrants will receive a $10 gift card towards their next purchase at Scrubadoo.com (Limit one per person). The contest ends May 12, the birthday of the founder of modern nursing Florence Nightingale. Three winners will be chosen to win over $1000 in prizes, including an Apple iPad 2. Vote for your favorite design today!

Visit the following link to view, participate, and vote in the contest: http://www.fibers.com/contests/nurses-week-2011

The goal of the contest is to honor the nursing profession all whilst rewarding those with the best design or slogan. All are encouraged to participate and vote! Please feel free to share on Twitter, Facebook, or any other social media.

F.A. Davis Announces New Edition of Davis’s Comprehensive Handbook of Laboratory & Diagnostic Tests & Launches http://www.LabDxTest.com

2011-01-25T09:37:00.000-08:00

Philadelphia, PA (PRWEB) January 24, 2011: The 4th Edition of Davis’s Comprehensive Handbook of Laboratory & Diagnostic Tests by Anne M. Van Leeuwen, MA, BS, MT (ASCP), Debra J. Poelhuis-Leth, MS, RT (R)(M), and Mickey L. Bladh, RN, MSN, published by F.A. Davis Company, makes it easy for nurses to retrieve need-to-know information at a glance and to understand how the tests work, interpret their results, and provide quality patient care safely—pre-test, intra-test, and post-test.

Through the three previous editions, nursing students, educators, and practitioners have turned to Davis’s Comprehensive Handbook. Now, they can turn to today’s most comprehensive laboratory and diagnostic test reference not only in print, mobile and electronic formats, but also online with the launch of http://www.LabDxTest.com powered by Unbound Medicine®.

http://www.LabDxTest.com offers access to the entire Davis’s Comprehensive Handbook of Laboratory & Diagnostic Tests database. It features an easy-to-use search function by key word or 'sounds like' and customizable bookmarking. A free-one year subscription to http://www.LabDxTest.com is available with the purchase of the print version. A paid, one-year, web access only subscription is also available.

“In today’s technology-driven world, students, instructors, and clinicians expect to be able to retrieve the information they need when and where they need it,” said Lisa Deitch, Publisher and Acquisitions Editor for F.A. Davis Company. “The 4thEdition of Davis’s Comprehensive Handbook of Laboratory & Diagnostic Tests responds not only with print, mobile versions and electronic versions, but with a brand-new web site, http://www.LabDxTest.com that puts the entire database at an user's fingertips. Now, our customers will be able to access the authoritative content they need in the medium of their choice."

Davis’s Comprehensive Handbook of Laboratory & Diagnostic Tests is the only text of its kind to offer teaching resources for instructors and learning and clinical tools for students on the DavisPlus website at http://davisplus.fadavis.com (keyword Van Leeuwen,) F.A. Davis’s online source for educational materials. Students have free access to, interactive exercises, a printable student workbook with matching exercises for age-specific guidelines, and body system/curriculum activities. They can also use the monograph search to quickly look up any test in the book and print mini-monographs with the most essential information.

When instructors adopt the version of their choice for their classes, they have password-protected access to an electronic test Bank, PowerPoint slides, all the student materials, and answers to the student workbook activities.

Davis’s Comprehensive Handbook of Laboratory & Diagnostic Tests, 4th Edition is available in multiple media formats to meet multiple needs. This title and many of F.A. Davis’s most popular textbooks are also available in special money-saving packages.

Print Version
$47.95 (US) $52.95 (CAN)
ISBN-13: 978-0-8036-2304-0

E-Edition : Online or downloadable from CourseSmart

Mobile & Web Versions: Available for a full range of mobile and web devices, (including iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch, Android, Windows Mobile, Palm, and Blackberry) from Unbound Medicine®, and Skyscape™ - $49.95 (US) $54.95 (CAN)

Online Subscription Version: http://www.LabDxTest.com: Davis’s Comprehensive Handbook of Laboratory & Diagnostic Tests Online, powered by Unbound Medicine®: One-year, web subscription: $39.95 (US) $54.95 (CAN)

Davis’s Comprehensive Handbook of Laboratory & Diagnostic Tests, 4th is available at bookstores or directly from F.A.Davis. For more information, call 800-323-3555 (US) 800-665-1148 (CAN) or visit http://www.FADavis.com .

About F.A. Davis Company: F.A. Davis Company, independent and family ownded since 1879, has been publishing titles to meet the needs of generations of health care providers. Today, F.A. Davis carries on that tradition through its catalogue of books, electronic, mobile, and online products for students, educators, and clinicians in Nursing, Medicine, and the Health Sciences. Its flagship titles, Taber’s Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary and Davis’s Drug Guide for Nurses, are among the most trusted names in health care publishing.

A Comprehensive Monitoring Tool for Nurses

2011-01-14T12:28:00.000-08:00

New book gives nurses and caregivers a proper reference for use in medical facilities

Washington (Vocus/PRWEB) January 13, 2011: Healthcare professionals and sisters Nora J. Wellington and Alicia A. Creighton-Allen noticed that when it came to having all the necessary documents to help healthcare staffs determine the level of their regulatory compliance within their facility there didn’t exist a singular guide to give all the information necessary in one place.

Detailed in the area of 42 CFR §§483.10–20 (Resident Rights through Resident Assessments), The Fundamentals of Quality for Long Term Care: Part I(published by AuthorHouse) informs healthcare professionals of applicable F-Tags (jargon for federal regulations), along with a detailing of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Interpretive Guidelines and Guidance to Surveyors.

The Fundamentals of Quality for Long Term Care is a comprehensive monitoring tool for all medical disciplines. It covers the Federal Long Term Care Regulations 42 CFR §483.10 Resident Rights through §483.20 Resident Assessment.

“As Nursing Facility/Skilled Nursing Facility administrator, I developed and designed monitoring tools to help staffs determine compliance with regulations,” says Wellington. “Their appreciation motivated me to continue to exercise my passion for sharing my knowledge with all levels of the staff.”

A practical tool, The Fundamentals of Quality for Long Term Care is perfect for monitoring purposes and for quick reference. The Fundamentals of Quality for Long Term Care allows the healthcare professionals on an Interdisciplinary Team to maintain awareness of the expectations of federal and state surveyors and will sharpen the focus on quality of care and quality of life for residents/patients in their facilities.

About the Authors: As a nursing center administrator who routinely spent part of her day with the front-line staff, Nora J. Wellington appreciates the hard work of the front-line staff, as well as the importance of the Interdisciplinary Team. She is the founder and president of the consulting firm, N Wellington Associates LLC. For more information, visit nwellingtonassociates.com.

Alicia A. Creighton-Allen brought her clinical skills as an Intensive Care Nurse and her Long Term Care nursing experience, to co-author the Fundamentals of Quality series (Part I, Part II, Part III).

AuthorHouse is the leading provider of self- publishing, marketing, and bookselling services for authors around the globe. For more information, visit authorhouse.com.

2010 John M. Eisenberg Patient Safety and Quality Award Recipients Announced

2011-01-12T12:31:00.000-08:00

(OAKBROOK TERRACE, Ill. – January 12, 2011) The National Quality Forum (NQF) and The Joint Commission today announced the 2010 recipients of the annual John M. Eisenberg Patient Safety and Quality Awards. Honorees were selected in three award categories.

The patient safety awards program, launched in 2002 by NQF and The Joint Commission, honors John M. Eisenberg, M.D., M.B.A., former administrator of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). Dr. Eisenberg was one of the founding leaders of NQF and sat on its Board of Directors. In his roles both as AHRQ administrator and chair of the federal government’s Quality Inter-Agency Coordination Task Force, he was a passionate advocate for patient safety and health care quality and personally led AHRQ’s grant program to support patient safety research.

The honorees, by award category, are:

INDIVIDUAL ACHIEVEMENT (two recipients)
•John H. Eichhorn, M.D.—University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky: Eichhorn is being recognized for his work in improving the quality of anesthesia care and patient safety through the development and application of practice standards and protocols. His contributions have led to dramatic and sustained reductions in catastrophic intra-operative anesthesia accidents, as well as improved anesthesia patient safety and quality of care overall.
•James L. Reinertsen, M.D. —The Reinertsen Group, Alta, Wyoming: Dr. Reinertsen is being recognized for his life-long leadership in improving health care quality and safety in medical groups, hospitals and health systems. His teaching and guidance have stimulated the leaders of scores of health systems in the United States, Canada, and Europe to achieve and sustain dramatic improvements in mortality rates, nosocomial infections, serious harm events, and other important measures of safety.

INNOVATION IN PATIENT SAFETY AND QUALITY AT THE NATIONAL LEVEL
•Washington State Hospital Association, Seattle, Washington: This organization is being recognized for its Safe Tables Learning Collaborative program, which provides the fundamental infrastructure for Washington hospitals to share their experiences and learn from each other and from patient safety experts at the local and national levels. The program focuses on standardizing safety practices, preventing infections, improving hand hygiene, increasing staff influenza immunizations, creating rapid response teams, enhancing board leadership, and engaging patients and families in ensuring safe care and reducing readmissions.

INNOVATION IN PATIENT SAFETY AND QUALITY AT THE LOCAL LEVEL
•The Children’s Hospital at Providence Newborn Intensive Care Unit, Anchorage, Alaska: This organization is being recognized for its multi-year quality improvement project to eliminate catheter-related blood stream infection (CRBSI) in the neonatal intensive care unit. Improvement was accomplished incrementally over several years beginning with the elimination of CRBSI associated with umbilical catheters in 2007, peripherally inserted catheters in 2008, and surgically placed catheters in 2009. The organization achieved and sustained success through implementing best practices in conjunction with using clinical microsystems principles and creating a learning culture within the context of clinical practice.

“The innovative and exemplary work of these individuals and health care organizations hopefully will not only inform, but also inspire others to become champions of patient safety and quality improvement. Their achievements make it clear that substantial improvements can be made in patient safety,” says Mark R. Chassin, M.D., FACP, M.P.P., M.P.H., president, The Joint Commission. “We applaud their commitment and courage in pursuing changes that have improved the lives of many.”

“This year’s recipients have all made significant contributions to improving patient safety and the quality of health care,” says Janet Corrigan, Ph.D., M.B.A., president and CEO, NQF. “As organizations and as individuals, they have challenged the status quo and achieved meaningful results that can be replicated not just in the United States but around the world.”

This year’s awards will be presented February 25, 2011 at NQF’s Annual Conference in Washington, D.C. An early 2011 issue of “The Joint Commission Journal on Quality and Patient Safety” also will feature the achievements of each of the award recipients.

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Founded in 1951, The Joint Commission seeks to continuously improve health care for the public, in collaboration with other stakeholders, by evaluating health care organizations and inspiring them to excel in providing safe and effective care of the highest quality and value. The Joint Commission evaluates and accredits more than 18,000 health care organizations and programs in the United States, including more than 9,700 hospitals and home care organizations, and more than 6,800 other health care organizations that provide long term care, behavioral health care, laboratory and ambulatory care services. In addition, The Joint Commission also provides certification of more than 1,700 disease-specific care programs, primary stroke centers, and health care staffing services. An independent, not-for-profit organization, The Joint Commission is the nation's oldest and largest standards-setting and accrediting body in health care. Learn more about The Joint Commission at www.jointcommission.org.

The National Quality Forum (NQF) operates under a three-part mission to improve the quality of American healthcare by:
•Building consensus on national priorities and goals for performance improvement and working in partnership to achieve them;
•Endorsing national consensus standards for measuring and publicly reporting on performance; and
•Promoting the attainment of national goals through education and outreach programs.

For more information about NQF, visit www.qualityforum.org.

Survey: Over 40 Percent of Nurses to Alter Career Path

2010-02-04T14:23:00.000-08:00

SAN DIEGO, Feb. 3 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Nearly one-third of registered nurses (RNs) surveyed last month say they will not be working in their current job a year from now and close to half say they plan to alter their career path in the next one to three years in a way that would either take them out of the nursing field entirely or reduce their contribution to direct patient care by working fewer hours or choosing a less demanding role. Driving part of the decision to potentially change career paths or jobs is the fact that nearly half of those surveyed say their job is affecting their health.

These are among key findings from the 2010 Survey of Registered Nurses: Job Satisfaction and Career Plans, conducted by AMN Healthcare (NYSE: AHS), the nation's leading provider of comprehensive healthcare staffing and management services. The survey, which collected data from 1,399 respondents, was conducted during a period of economic recession and in the course of an ongoing national debate over healthcare reform. The survey reflects how RNs may have altered their career plans due to the recession, how they might respond to an economic recovery, and highlights whether they believe healthcare reform will address the nurse shortage.

On the healthcare reform issue, only 6 percent of the respondents are very confident that reform will provide a mechanism for ensuring an adequate supply of nurses. This at a time when industry data indicates the nation will face a shortage of 260,000 RNs by 2025, and Bureau of Labor Statistics shortage numbers are even higher.

"Our survey clearly indicates significant job dissatisfaction and that is concerning in terms of quality healthcare delivery," said Ralph Henderson, AMN Healthcare's Nursing and Allied Division President. "Nurses are at the core of quality care in our nation's delivery system and if we see large numbers of nurses leaving the profession it could negatively impact patient care outcomes." In fact, the majority of nurses (55 percent) believe that the quality of care nurses provide today has declined compared to five years ago, according to the survey.

The survey notes that 29 percent of nurses plan to take steps in the next one to three years that would reduce their role or take them out of nursing altogether. An additional 15 percent say they will also make a change in their career path, like becoming a travel nurse or nurse practitioner.
However, while the survey highlights dissatisfaction with their current job, most nurses are satisfied with their careers overall, yet 59 percent would select nursing as a career if they had it to do it all over, and only 64 percent would recommend nursing as a career to young people. "While nursing has made tremendous strides as a profession, in terms of pay and prestige, staffing shortages remain the profession's greatest challenge," notes Henderson.

Of immediate concern, he says, is that 6 percent of nurses permanently employed in a hospital setting indicate they plan to retire in the next one to three years. This action would reduce the hospital nursing workforce by more than 70,000. This is of particular concern, since the number of new candidates taking the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become a registered nurse has flattened over the last year, suggesting no growth in the supply of new nurses entering the profession.

"It is critical that we find ways to keep experienced nurses engaged in patient care and attract new nurses to the workforce," Henderson says. These two things combined will help mitigate the impact of the nation's growing nurse shortage, he observes.

About AMN Healthcare: AMN Healthcare Services, Inc. is the nation's leading provider of comprehensive healthcare staffing and management services. As a leading provider of travel nurse and allied staffing services, locum tenens (temporary physician staffing) and physician permanent placement services, AMN Healthcare recruits and places healthcare professionals on assignments of variable lengths and in permanent positions with clients throughout the United States, who range from acute-care hospitals and physician practice groups to other healthcare settings, including rehabilitation centers, dialysis clinics, pharmacies, home health service providers and ambulatory surgery centers. For more information, visit www.amnhealthcare.com.

New FDA-Approved Shape-HF™ Cardiopulmonary Testing System Validated in Mayo Clinic Study

2009-07-24T08:15:00.000-07:00

All results from a recent Mayo Clinic study validate the measurement accuracy of the Shape-HF™ Cardiopulmonary Testing System. Data collected--including HR, SaO2, VO2, VCO2, Fb, VT, and PetCO2 measurements -- by the Shape-HF™ compared favorably to that of the Mayo Clinic Cardiopulmonary Research System and reflected a tight reproducibility of the results. The Shape-HF™ is a new, non-invasive medical device that assesses heart-lung interaction and ventilation in patients with chronic heart failure and other cardiopulmonary disease.

Minneapolis-St.Paul, MN (PRWEB) July 24, 2009 -- All results from a recent Mayo Clinic study validate the measurement accuracy of the Shape-HF™ Cardiopulmonary Testing System. Data collected by the Shape-HF™ compared favorably to that of the Mayo Clinic Cardiopulmonary Research System and reflected a tight reproducibility of the results. The Shape-HF™ is a new, non-invasive medical device that assesses heart-lung interaction and ventilation in patients with chronic heart failure and other cardiopulmonary disease.

The study involved testing 22 subjects simultaneously on the Shape-HF™ and the Mayo Clinic Cardiovascular Research System. Pneumotachs providing air flow to the respective test sytems were connected in series for the tests. The order of the pneumotach for each system was alternated for two test runs separated by 15 minutes of rest. Each subject was tested at rest and as power was increased on a cycle ergometer to 50 Watts, 70 Watts and 125 Watts, with three minutes of exercise at each exercise work rate.

The last 30 seconds of data for each interval for each run was then averaged. The averages of all subjects for rest and the three exercise intervals were then averaged for each run. The average values for each run showed a remarkably consistent parallel and match for all measurements, which included heart rate (HR), oxygen uptake (VO2), carbon dioxide output (VCO2), tidal volume (VT), end-tidal partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PetCO2), oxygen saturation (SaO2), and breathing frequency (Fb). Prior to each test run, the Mayo system was calibrated manually; the Shape-HF™ was calibrated automatically using its proprietary dynamic autocalibration feature that does not require manual calibration prior to testing. A manuscript detailing the study is in development and will be submitted for publication.

Shape-HF™ is the first gas exchange testing device specifically designed for cardiology. It is FDA-approved, easy to use, easy on the patient, and provides clinically relevant data that is easy to understand, reproducible and immediately useful to a cardiologist. Shape-HF™ quantifies the severity of dyspnea on exertion and fatigue and evaluates the interaction between the heart, lungs, and other organ systems. This makes it possible for the physician to evaluate therapy options for the individual patient and track patient progress. In addition, cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) has become a mainstay in treating patients with severe heart failure when alternative treatment options have been exhausted. In addition to being the first and only device that objectively measures cardiopulmonary gas exchange easily and quickly without undue strain on the patient and in the office setting, Shape-HF™ provides real-time physiological assessment to help physicians optimize CRT at exercise levels consistent with patient daily activity. Importantly, Shape-HF testing is cost-effective and easy to use.

Shape Medical Systems Inc. is a privately held, St. Paul, Minnesota-based medical device company whose core technology lies in the development and commercialization of products for assessing heart/lung interaction and ventilation in chronic heart failure and other cardiopulmonary disease. Shape's clear mission is to develop products that increase the quality of patients' lives by helping doctors quantify shortness of breath, assess patient functional capacity, optimize drug, device and rehabilitation therapy, and monitor patient progress. Shape Medical Systems was founded in 2004 and received FDA market clearance for the Shape-HF™ Cardiopulmonary Testing System in April 2009. The Shape-HF™ System, testing protocols and applications are protected by patent 7,225,022 and other U.S. and foreign patents issued and pending.

OBama Healthcare Plan... A Review of the latest ABC news video.

2009-07-16T14:52:00.000-07:00

I recently viewed a video of President Obama about his healthcare plan. In this plan, he would like to reduce readmissions to the hospital, have physicians to work together as a team, with the primary care physician being the "leader."

Decreasing the readmissions to the hospital... first of all the governmentis going to have to figure out how to decrease the frequent flyers and treat their needs in an economical fashion? To take care of these problems effectiently won't that include a longer hosptial stay? Let's face it, the hospital stays have been getting shorter and shorter since I got into healthcare in the early 1990s. We get patient's until their "good enough" then out the door they go. As a nurse it is my responsible to educate that patient on what to do at home, but what about the compliance of the patient? The real success of failure of the patient at home is called COMPLIANCE... So, therefore, my question to Mr. President is how are we going to make sure that the patient's are compliant with the treatment that we have set up for them?

Physicians working together as a team... How many times have nurses had to put their foot down because the docs want to play phone tag with the nurses in the middle. In this fast paced world, I don't know if there is enough time for all this communication. Doctors would have to call each other instead of having the nurse or unit secretary call the other physician. What about a treatment plan? What happened to nursing care plans and/or treatment plans? There have been quite a few hospitals that I have gone to recently that there is absolutely no communication about what the real treatment plan is for the patient. Communication is going to have to get A LOT better for physicians AND nurses to work together as a team.

Primary care physicians being the leader... Now-a-days I'm seeing more and more use of hospitalist for hospital care and primary care physicans (or PCPs) used only at their offices. How is the PCP supppose to lead the team if they aren't even in the hospital? Do the hospitalist and PCPs communicate with each other on each patient? Does the hospitalist really know the plan that the PCP has for the care of that patient?

I think that before any of this to work, we're going to have to make healthcare more personal. Nurses and doctors are going to have to get back into the CARING field and not just the COVER YOUR HINEY field...

University of Illinois Medical Center in Chicago First Hospital to Install Innovative Shape-HF™ Cardiopulmonary Testing System

2009-05-06T09:53:00.000-07:00

New FDA-approved medical device "is specifically designed to objectively measure cardiopulmonary gas exchange in heart failure patients. It can make a dramatic difference in treating CRT patients." Dr. Abraham Kocheril, Professor of Medicine and Director of Clinical Electrophysiology at the University of Illinois at Chicago

Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN (PRWEB) May 6, 2009 -- The University of Illinois Medical Center, the primary teaching facility for the UIC College of Medicine (the nation's largest medical school), is the first such institution to install and begin using the innovative Shape-HF™ Cardiopulmonary Testing System. Developed by Shape Medical Systems, Inc, this non-invasive medical device assesses heart-lung interaction and ventilation in patients with chronic heart failure and other cardiopulmonary disease. While gas exchange testing devices have been used for several years to measure cardiopulmonary response to exercise, Shape-HF™ is the first device specifically designed for cardiology. Shape-HF™ is FDA-approved, easy to use, easy on the patient, and provides clinically relevant data that is easy to understand, reproducible and immediately useful to a cardiologist.

Upon being introduced to the Shape-HF™ System, Dr. Abraham Kocheril, Professor of Medicine and Director of Clinical Electrophysiology at the University of Illinois at Chicago, saw immediate applications for the device. "It broadens the pool of heart failure patients we are able to accurately test because it is less cumbersome than existing cardiopulmonary testing devices and it is patient friendly for those with heart failure," says Dr. Kocheril. Shape-HF™ uses low intensity, sub-maximal or steady state testing protocols to allow testing of even high-risk patients with little or no discomfort.

Cardiologists know that measuring patient gas exchange is the best method of assessing patient functional capacity, monitoring their response to therapy and predicting outcome. Shape-HF™ is designed to quantify the severity of dyspnea on exertion and fatigue and evaluate the interaction between the heart, lungs, and other organ systems. This makes it possible for the physician to evaluate therapy options for the individual patient and track patient progress. In addition, cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) has become a mainstay in treating patients with severe heart failure when alternative treatment options have been exhausted. According to Dr. Koucheril, "The CRT response rate in heart failure patients is about 70%. The Shape-HF™ System is likely to help us get the remaining 30% feeling better--those we call non-responders--because it lets us objectively measure response to CRT and optimize timing between the atrium and the two ventricles of the heart in real time while the patient is exercising."

In addition to being the first and only device that objectively measures cardiopulmonary gas exchange easily and quickly without undue strain on the patient and in the office setting, Shape-HF™ provides real-time physiological assessment to enable CRT optimization during exercise and is cost-effective and easy to use. According to Shape Medical Systems President and COO Clarence Johnson, "Cost, logistics and the complexity of testing and data interpretation, as well as the significant level of patient discomfort associated with cardiopulmonary exercise testing has limited its utility and deprived physicians and their patients of much needed physiological information. Shape-HF™ overcomes these limitations. It provides objective data to the cardiologist right in the office or clinic. The test is easy on patients and the equipment is intuitive and easy to use."

Dr. Kocheril is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in Cardiovascular Disease and Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology. He has published extensively, serves as a reviewer for several journals, and is on the editorial board of one journal. He has spoken internationally and takes an active role as faculty in the annual scientific sessions of the Heart Rhythm Society.

The University of Illinois Medical Center is a comprehensive teaching and research hospital and is the state's largest public medical facility. Founded in 1925, the medical center has pioneered dramatic innovations in medical treatment, technology and cutting-edge research with a dedication to patient care. The medical center includes a 507-bed hospital and more than 40 primary care and specialty outpatient clinics. It is associated with UIC's health sciences colleges of medicine, pharmacy, nursing, dentistry, public health and applied health sciences. The hospital serves as the primary teaching facility for the UIC College of Medicine, the nation's largest medical school, graduating approximately 300 physicians each year. In Illinois, approximately one in six physicians is a graduate of the UIC College of Medicine.

Shape Medical Systems Inc is a privately held, St. Paul, Minnesota-based medical device company whose core technology lies in the development and commercialization of products for assessing heart/lung interaction and ventilation in chronic heart failure and other cardiopulmonary disease. Shape's clear mission is to develop products that increase the quality of patients' lives by helping doctors quantify shortness of breath, assess patient functional capacity, optimize drug, device and rehabilitation therapy, and monitor patient progress. Shape Medical Systems was founded in 2004 and received FDA market clearance for the Shape-HF™ Cardiopulmonary Testing System in April 2009. The Shape-HF™ System, testing protocols and applications are protected by patent 7,225,022 and other U.S. and foreign patents issued and pending.

pMDsoft Releases Charge Capture Software for BlackBerry Storm

2009-03-05T14:38:00.000-08:00

pMDsoft, Inc. today extended its popular mobile charge capture and rounding software to the BlackBerry Storm. Combining on-the-go connectivity with the simplicity of a touch interface, this device is a natural evolution for pMDsoft, which emphasizes realtime communication and exceptional ease of use. Practices seeking to save time, recover lost income, and improve patient hand-off can benefit immensely from charge capture; but only if they choose the right solution for their needs.

Long Island City, NY (PRWEB) February 25, 2009 -- pMDsoft Releases Charge Capture Software for BlackBerry Storm

pMDsoft, Inc. today extended its popular mobile charge capture and rounding software to the BlackBerry Storm. Combining on-the-go connectivity with the simplicity of a touch interface, this device is a natural evolution for pMDsoft, which emphasizes realtime communication and exceptional ease of use. Practices seeking to save time, recover lost income, and improve patient hand-off can benefit immensely from charge capture; but only if they choose the right solution for their needs.

What's Wrong with Paper? A paper solution for capturing charges - such as 3x5 index cards, the status quo for tracking hospital patients in many practices - is quick to use and highly mobile. No one can dispute its simplicity. Nonetheless, it exacts hidden tolls in the form of lengthy hand-off conversations, lost or forgotten charges, and delays in reaching the biller. An electronic solution can address these concerns while actually reducing the amount of time that it takes to document each patient encounter; but only if it was designed well for this purpose.

Dr. Jonathan Matthews, of DFW Hospitalists, has realized the benefits of adopting an elegant charge capture solution such as pMDsoft, declaring that "pMDsoft has made our lives a lot simpler, saving me hours of administrative work every week. Now when I leave the hospital, I'm usually done with my billing by the time I get to the car. Information flows easily within my practice, and my life is more efficient - which is more important than ever now that I'm starting to grow my small hospitalist practice." For small practices, great technology can make the difference between prospering and struggling to stay independent.

So what's wrong with paper? It cannot re-use demographics that doctors or staff have previously entered. It cannot help doctors stay abreast of which patients they and their partners have already seen, today or in the distant past. It cannot find its own way to the biller, or be accessed using a Web browser if the doctor forgets to bring it along. And if it is lost or stolen, patients' privacy may suffer.

Fortunately, today's smartphones - capable, friendly devices such as the BlackBerry Storm and the iPhone - have allowed pMDsoft to create a solution that is not only better than the competition; it's also definitely better than paper.

Save Time, Recover Lost Income, and Improve Patient Hand-Off: A practice that is considering adopting mobile charge capture must first determine where its existing process could be improved. In the rush to provide the best patient care or spend time with family, does billing ever fall by the wayside? In this case, the practice stands to tighten its accounts receivables cycle, getting reimbursed more quickly and more reliably for its work. Doctors may also benefit from being able to tell at a glance whom they've seen today and whom they haven't.

On the other hand, the practice's billing might be airtight, up-to-date, and accurate; but the checks and balances that it has put into place to ensure this are consuming it with administrative work. This time could be spent in a more productive way. If this rings true, then the practice stands to recover an immense amount of time by transitioning to a system that cuts out the middle man and sends patient encounters directly to the biller from the point of care. Like Dr. Matthews, the doctors could already be finished with their billing by the time they leave the hospital.

Finally, doctors may be spending a lot of time on the phone with your partners, catching them up on the status of each patient. In this case, the practice may improve both the speed and quality of hand-off by adopting a system that updates highly visible sign-off notes in realtime. Dr. Raj Patcha, of the Huntington Heart Center has found that "I am hardly calling my partners about whom I have to see as it continuously updates itself. It's like my biller is following my clinical rounds. Thanks for making my life easier to run our practice."

pMDsoft retains the best aspects of paper billing, and adds the simplicity of a well-written, truly mobile software solution. Learn more by calling 800-587-4989 or emailing sales (at) pmdsoft (dot) com

About pMDsoft: Headquartered in New York City, pMDsoft develops wireless applications that help physicians streamline and automate their entire practice from point-of-care through reimbursement. The company was started in 1999 to address physicians' need for an effective, mobile alternative to their paper-based method for recording patient encounters. pMDsoft developed the powerful, flexible, reliable and easy-to-use mobile charge capture solution physicians were seeking. By providing real-time access to patient information anywhere, at any time via handheld devices or desktop computers, pMDsoft's medical billing program enables physicians to automate charge capture; view hospital census and office schedules; create a centralized patient information resource for the practice; and more. Through it all, we protect your patient data by adhering to the highest standards for performance, security and reliability.

Today, pMDsoft's customers include individual physicians, physician practice groups, managed care organizations, hospitals, and billing companies located across the country. We attribute our success to our unwavering commitment to developing the best solution on the market and to our superior 24/7 customer support.

Southeast Missouri Hospital Implements Chart Links Rehabilitation Software for Therapists

2009-03-05T14:36:00.000-08:00

Chart Links, LLC announces the implementation of its rehabilitation software by HealthPoint Rehab which consists of two outpatient rehabilitation centers for Southeast Missouri Hospital, a 269-bed regional medical complex serving southeast Missouri and southern Illinois. The implementation includes functionality for electronically managing therapy documentation, scheduling, referrals, insurance authorizations, charges, and more.

New Haven, Connecticut and Cape Girardeau, Missouri (PRWEB) February 27, 2009 -- Chart Links, a provider of rehabilitation software, announces the implementation of its therapy documentation and scheduling system by a team of 26 physical, occupational and speech therapists and assistants at HealthPoint Rehab, consisting of two outpatient rehabilitation facilities, for Southeast Missouri Hospital. Southeast Missouri Hospital is a 269-bed regional medical complex serving nearly 600,000 people in 21 counties in southeast Missouri and southern Illinois.

The implementation includes functionality for electronic therapy documentation, cross-discipline therapy scheduling, referral and insurance authorization management, charges and more. It also includes an ADT and billing interface to the Meditech hospital information system.

"Transitioning to electronic medical records was the right decision," says Frankie Erlacker, PT, MHS, Executive Director of HealthPoint Rehab. "Southeast chose Chart Links both because it could be customized to meet the unique needs of the department and because of the support Chart Links offered during the building and implementation process. With Chart Links, we will document according to national standards in a way that makes sense to both clinicians and our referral sources. The management staff will be able to more effectively monitor trends and strategize proactively."

Chart Links software streamlines all of the daily tasks associated with a patient's physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech language pathology, or audiology visit. The software manages adult and pediatric therapy treatment by automating evaluations, flow sheets, plans of care, progress notes, patient education, and clinical correspondence. It also manages payer compliance, provider reimbursement, outcomes reporting, administrative functions, business intelligence and enterprise productivity.

About Chart Links, LLC: For 15 years, Chart Links has developed rehabilitation software that automates workflow for referrals, insurance authorizations, cross-discipline scheduling, documentation, charges, and more. Chart Links allows medical rehabilitation facilities to be more efficient and to provide a higher quality of care by delivering results in the areas of compliance, outcomes, analytics and revenue. http://www.chartlinks.com?source=prweb

About Southeast Missouri Hospital's HealthPoint Rehab: Southeast Missouri Hospital's two HealthPoint Rehab complexes, located in Cape Girardeau and nearby Jackson, MO, offer a full scope of specialized physical, occupational and speech therapy services as well as orthopedic and sports medicine for both adults and children. Highly specialized therapies include lymphedema therapy, treatment for TMJ disorders and myofascial release. Both facilities are equipped with large, state-of-the-art therapy gyms as well as private treatment areas. The highly experienced, credentialed therapists make the transition from rehabilitation to fitness a personalized experience for patients.

HealthPoint Rehab in Cape Girardeau also utilizes both warm water and fitness pools for therapeutic aquatics.

Best New Product Awards Winners Named at Molecular Medicine Tri-Conference

2009-03-05T14:15:00.000-08:00

Products from AnaSpec, Accelrys, Almac Diagnostics, Seahorse Biosciences, BioFortis recognized for their innovation across the life industry.

San Francisco, CA (PRWEB) March 3, 2009 -- Cambridge Healthtech Institute's Molecular Medicine Tri-Conference has named five biotech companies that have won the Third Annual Best New Product Awards: The winning products include AnaSpec's ClearPoint Peptides, Accelrys' Pipeline Pilot Cheminformatics Collection, Almac Diagnostics' Ovarian Cancer DSA Research Tool, Seahorse Biosciences' Seahorse XF96 Extracellular Flux Analyzer, and BioFortis' Labmatrix.

One company was selected within five technology categories. Winning products were selected by delegates of the Molecular Medicine Tri-Conference, who voted for products they felt best exemplified innovation in their field. The following winners were selected from 25 finalists.

Biological Samples & ReagentsClearPoint Peptides by AnaSpec

ChemistryPipeline Pilot Cheminformatics Collection by Accelrys

Assays & Kits for Basic ResearchOvarian Cancer DSA Research Tool by Almac Diagnostics

Assays & Kits for Drug DevelopmentSeahorse XF96 Extracellular Flux Analyzer by Seahorse Biosciences

Discovery Informatics: Labmatrix by BioFortis

Best New Product Award Winners include:

ClearPoint Peptides: By spiking protein tryptic digests with internal heavy isotope labeled peptide standards, Mass Spectrometry becomes an absolute quantitation (AQUA) method. With a choice of heavy hydrogen (2H), carbon (13C), or nitrogen (15N)-isotopes specifically labeled at single, multiple or universal positions, ClearPoint™ peptides are an ideal solution for absolute protein quantitation.

Pipeline Pilot Cheminformatics Collection: Accelrys' chemistry-centric List Management and Query Services system (LMQS) enables rapid searching of different data sources that utilize a variety of database search engines and schemas. Results can be automatically organized into lists that can be manipulated within Pipeline Pilot, enabling users to reuse, share, report and analyze their data.

Ovarian Cancer DSA Research Tool: The Ovarian Cancer DSA(TM) research tool is the first high-density disease focused transcriptome based microarray for the study of ovarian. With ~100,000 transcripts derived from ovarian tissue, the Ovarian cancer DSA(TM) research tool represents the most complete tool available for the study of ovarian cancer.

Seahorse XF96 Extracellular Flux Analyzer: The Seahorse XF96 Analyzer is the first analytical instrument for the kinetic measurement of mitochondrial oxygen consumption and cytoplasmic glycolysis in a 96-well microplate. The easy-to-use instrument assays cells in minutes, using a label-free, non-destructive method. Measure mitochondrial function in primary cells, adherent cells, tumor and suspension cells and isolated mitochondria.

About Labmatrix: Labmatrix™ is a web-based software application for management of clinical, specimen and molecular assay data. With the ability to integrate these data sets in a tightly linked, highly annotated manner, Labmatrix™ is being used by multiple customers in the biopharmaceutical industry, academic and government research institutes for biomarker discovery, biobanking and translational clinical and genetic research.

About Cambridge Healthtech Institute (CHI): Founded in 1992, Cambridge Healthtech Institute (www.chicorporate.com) is the preeminent life science network for leading researchers and business experts from top pharmaceutical, biotech, academic, and niche service provider organizations. CHI's integrated life science portfolio of products and services includes Cambridge Healthtech Institute Conferences, Pharmaceutical Strategy Series, Barnett International, Insight Pharma Reports, Marketing Services, Meeting Planners, and Cambridge Healthtech Media Group, which includes numerous eNewsletters, Bio-IT World magazine, as well as Lead Generation Programs.

Health Strategies & Solutions Diagnoses Trends and Implications for Healthcare Industry in 2009 and Beyond

2009-03-05T14:09:00.000-08:00

Health Strategies & Solutions, Inc., (HS&S), the nation's leading healthcare strategy firm, is announcing its forecast for the health care industry in 2009. Provoked by the deteriorating economy and the prospect of significant federal health care reform, substantial changes will affect the future for both patients and providers.

Philadelphia, PA (PRWEB) March 4, 2009 -- Health Strategies & Solution., (HS&S), the nation's leading healthcare strategy firm, is announcing its forecast for the healthcare industry in 2009. Provoked by the deteriorating economy and the prospect of significant federal health care reform, substantial changes will affect the future for both patients and providers.

With health care as a major element of domestic policy for the new president and a high priority for congressional leaders, major reform lies just on the horizon. "Reform legislation is likely to call for expanded coverage of the uninsured, a new or expanded federally sponsored insurance plan, greater use of information systems by providers, enhanced preventive services, and increased payment incentives for better and safer care," states Alan Zuckerman, nationally recognized healthcare consultant and president of the Philadelphia-based firm, HS&S. "Less clear, however, is how reform will be financed and whether it will be positioned initially as part of an economic stimulus package or funded by raising taxes and through savings generated by various efficiencies."

Zuckerman says the effects of the deteriorating economy are already being felt throughout the industry. As the economy continues its downward spiral in 2009, additional effects can be expected on postponable demand such as elective procedures. Overall, an acceleration of the gap between continuing underlying cost inflation and likely relatively modest reimbursement increases will create stress for all.

At its most basic level, HS&S predicts the deteriorating economy will cause a reexamination and redirection of previously crafted strategies and plans for most organizations. "It will undoubtedly precipitate some pruning of marginal or peripheral operations and businesses and greater concentration on the core," Zuckerman adds. Healthcare organizations will be challenged to focus on improving their market positions and increasingly differentiate themselves from the competition in their key service lines.

A secondary effect of the deteriorating economy will be to undermine the continuing viability of many organizations. Already, there have been growing gaps between the "rich" and "poor" which will only accelerate in the emerging environment. A significant effect of escalating financial difficulties will be a new wave of consolidations and failures, rivaling the last wave which swept the industry about 10 years ago. The strong will give consideration to their role in this dynamic situation, and the weak will seek partners while they still have value and negotiating leverage.

With the country's economic circumstances absorbing national attention, it is impossible to tell at this point if healthcare reform will occur in the near future and if so, how sweeping the changes might be. Savvy organizations will deal with the uncertainty of healthcare reform through a two-track strategy: one track predicated on business as usual and the other track on the common elements of the proposed reform initiatives. Only by following a two-track strategy can the uncertainty of this potential major development be addressed appropriately. And, between the two tracks there is much common ground, including the likelihood of escalating financial pressures and the inevitability of greater consolidation.

About Health Strategies & Solutions, Inc: Health Strategies & Solutions, Inc., is the nation's leading healthcare strategy firm. From their corporate headquarters in Philadelphia and regional offices in New York, Virginia, Florida, Michigan, Colorado, and California, they have served more than 300 academic medical centers, community hospitals, multihospital systems, physician groups, and specialty organizations across the country. For more information, please visit hss-inc.com.

A Newly Approved CMS Medicare Package Expands Reimbursement Coverage for Telehealth Originating Sites Beginning January 1, 2009

2009-01-29T16:57:00.000-08:00

AMD Global Telemedicine, Inc. anticipates growth and expansion of telemedicine services to include skilled nursing facilities, hospital based renal dialysis centers, and community mental health centers.

N. Chelmsford, MA (PRWEB) January 26, 2009 -- As telemedicine acceptance continues to advance, regulations pertaining to hospital and physician reimbursement are expanding as well.

Medicare is a health insurance program run by the Federal Government for America's senior citizens. It is the largest health care payer in the United States. The Balanced Budget Act of 1997 (BBA) mandated that Medicare reimburse telemedicine consultations and fund telemedicine demonstration projects across the United States.

At this time, Medicare reimburses for telehealth if the services are performed in one of the following originating sites: the office of a physician or practitioner, a critical access hospital, a rural health clinic, or a federally qualified health center or hospital.

On June 6th, 2008, the Senate Finance committee released comprehensive Medicare legislation that includes a provision expanding telehealth originating sites to include the following;
- Hospital-based renal dialysis centers, which will allow patients receiving dialysis to receive other medical consultations via telemedicine at the same time.
- Skilled nursing facilities allowing many nursing homes to now host telemedicine systems and earn their investment back by qualifying for an "originating site fee" per consultation.
- In-patient follow-up visits which will allow outside specialists (other than the admitting doctor) to consult with inpatients who are already in the hospital.
- Community Mental Health Centers

As of January 1, 2009, a remote physician consulting with a patient using telehealth technology, located in any of the facilities mentioned above, can receive reimbursement from Medicare for those services. The originating sites of those consultations, namely the facilities that purchase telemedicine equipment will also receive an "originating site fee" per consultation. With this change brings great incentive to physicians, practitioners and health care facilities to participate in using telehealth technology to consult with skilled nursing home patients.

More good news for clinicians! Medicare also provides a 5% bonus payment, above the regular consultation fee, for any physician or practitioner who uses telemedicine to consult with patients who reside in a federally designed Physician Shortage Area (PSA). The physician or practitioner does not have to be located in the PSA area, only the patient or participating originating site.

About AMD Global Telemedicine: AMD Global Telemedicine (www.amdtelemedicine.com) is the leading, worldwide supplier of telemedicine equipment and technology devices used in telemedicine with over 5,000 sites in 74 countries. AMD devices and tConsult™ software products offer clinically acclaimed, cost-effective solutions for the most challenging medical applications. AMD also provides complete technical support in program design, device integration, training, and remedial service to assure a successful program implementation. For more information on AMD Telemedicine, please visit www.amdtelemedicine.com, or call 866-511-0923.

Study Stresses Importance of Availability of Automated External Defibrillators at Athletic Events

2009-01-29T16:54:00.000-08:00

Rosemont, IL (Vocus) December 30, 2008 -- Utilizing an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) as part of a comprehensive emergency action plan (EAP) at an athletic event can mean the difference between life and death for an athlete or spectator experiencing Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) , confirms a study published in the inaugural edition of Sports Health (www.sportshealthjournal.org): A Multidisciplinary Approach.

The study reports that access to AEDs and early defibrillation achieves survival rates of 41 to 74 percent, if CPR and defibrillation takes place within three to five minutes of arrest. "The most important factor in SCA survival is quick access to an on-site AED. Easy access gives a trained professional the extra minutes they need to save lives, "says lead author, Justin D. Rothmier, MD from The Sports Medicine Clinic in Seattle, Washington.

The article analyzed relevant studies on AEDs, early defibrillation, and public access defibrillation programs, as well as consensus guidelines and position statements concerning AEDs and athletics. The study recommends three strategies regarding the use of AEDs at athletic events:

• Have an on-site AED program in the school and general athletic setting

• An AED should be applied immediately to any collapsed or unresponsive athlete for rhythm analysis and defibrillation (if indicated), and CPR should be administered until an AED is available
• On-site AED programs should be implemented as part of a comprehensive emergency action plan for SCA.

SCA is the most common cause of death in the United States with more than 300,000 deaths occurring annually. "Having an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) for all athletic events is also critically important to saving athlete and spectator lives. These plans need to include efficient communication systems, trained first responders, available emergency equipment, such as AEDs, predetermined emergency transportation routes and annual reviews. If more communities had these plans in place, fewer lives would be lost," said Rothmier.

Published bimonthly, Sports Health is a collaborative publication from the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM) (www.sportsmed.org), the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine (AMSSM) (www.newamssm.org), the National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) (www.nata.org), and the Sports Physical Therapy Section (SPTS) (www.spts.org). Other organizations participating in the publication include the American Academy of Pediatrics' (http://www.aap.org/sections/sportsmedicine) Council on Sports Fitness and Medicine and the American Osteopathic Academy of Sports Medicine (AOASM) (www.aoasm.org). For more information on the publication or to submit a manuscript, visit www.sportshealthjournal.org

For additional questions, please contact Lisa Weisenberger, AOSSM Director of Communications at 847-292-4900.

Spiritual Care Summit '09 Underscores Importance of Spirituality in All Aspects of Care

2009-01-29T16:47:00.000-08:00

The Spiritual Care Collaborative (SCC) will host Spiritual Care Summit '09 Feb. 1-4, 2009 at the Disney Coronado Springs Resort in Walt Disney World®, FL. This groundbreaking event will explore universal themes that underscore the importance of spirituality in all aspects of care, from prevention to crisis. The conference promotes dialogue among all professionals concerned with the spiritual health and well-being of those they serve, including chaplains, nurses, doctors, social workers, counselors, psychiatrists, religious leaders and others.

Walt Disney World®, FL (PRWEB) January 17, 2009-- The Spiritual Care Collaborative (SCC) will host Spiritual Care Summit '09 Feb. 1-4, 2009 at the Disney Coronado Springs Resort in Walt Disney World®, FL. This educational and networking conference is open to all professionals concerned with the spiritual health and well-being of those they serve, including chaplains, nurses, doctors, social workers, counselors, psychiatrists, religious leaders and others. The event was established in recognition of the connection between these professions, much as the wellness of mind, body and spirit are interrelated.

The conference invites attendees to bridge the gulf between disciplines, celebrating that which unifies and honoring that which separates, so all may work together toward the common goal of holistic care.

Plenary sessions will explore universal themes that underscore the importance of spirituality in all aspects of care, from prevention to crisis.

•Dr. Benjamin W. Corn MD, chairman of Radiation Oncology at Tel Aviv Medical Center-Ichilov Hospital in Israel, will present, "Seek and You Shall Find: Crossing Disciplinary Boundaries within the Village of Care." From his own experience as a cancer specialist, Dr. Corn will offer models of care that effectively overcome the obstacles that exist among physicians, patients, chaplains and others.

•David Deane PhD, assistant professor of theology at Atlantic School of Theology in Nova Scotia, Canada, will discuss, "Imagining Well-Being: How our Perspectives Shape the Way We Care." With a firm belief that health should not be defined by consumer capitalism that promotes "survival of the fittest," Dean will invite attendees to explore how faith communities and traditions can participate in, and take responsibility for, the perception of what a "normal" healthy body and mind ought to be.

•Ada-Maria Isasi-Diaz PhD, professor of ethics and theology at Drew University in Madison, NJ, and founder and co-director of Drew's Hispanic Institute of Theology, will present, "Embracing Diversity and Caring: A Matter of Justice." Encouraging attendees to embrace diversity as preferable to sameness, Isasi-Diaz will explore how embracing our unique differences strengthens our solicitude - our ability to care about, care for and care with.

•The final plenary session will be presented by Pamela Cooper-White PhD, professor of pastoral theology at Columbia Theological Seminary in Decatur, GA, and co-chair of the Person/Culture/Religion Group of the American Academy of Religion. Serving as the "village weaver" she will circulate among the attendees, listen to the speakers and weave together the concepts and practical ideas discussed throughout the conference. In the closing session, Cooper-White will offer back to attendees her creative interpretation of the conference and her charge to all those who work in the "village of care" as we move into the future.

In addition, a series of pre-conference educational workshops representing a broad range of topics and experts in spiritual care will be held January 30-31.

The SCC consists of six pastoral care, counseling and education associations working together to define the field of spiritual care, develop best practices, collaborate with other disciplines and ensure that the spiritual needs of all who are in need of care are fully met.

To register for Spiritual Care Summit or learn more about the SCC, please visit http://www.spiritualcarecollaborative.org.

Two Colorado Surgeons Become Pioneers In Microsurgical DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction

2008-12-22T09:45:00.000-08:00

Dr Jeremy Z Williams and Dr Christopher G Williams, both with Park Meadows Cosmetic Surgery center based in Lone Tree, Colorado will be working with a local hospital to bring DIEP Flap breast reconstruction to Colorado patients.

Denver, CO (PRWEB) November 6, 2008 -- With over 260,000 people being diagnosed with breast cancer every year, new alternatives to breast reconstruction are in constant demand. Dr Jeremy Z Williams and Dr Christopher G Williams, both with Park Meadows Cosmetic Surgery center based in Lone Tree, Colorado are bringing one of the newest and most exciting procedures to their clients, DIEP Flap breast reconstruction.

"Our goal with any surgical procedure is to provide maximum effectiveness to our patients," stated Dr Jeremy Williams. "As women recover, we want to help get them back to their normal lifestyle as quick as possible."

In the past, there have been few options available to women desiring breast reconstruction. Women could choose to have saline or silicone implants, use her own tissue flap, or a combination of the two. The transverse rectus abdominis muscle flap, or TRAM flap, was the most common of the procedures. The TRAM flap is the process of taking tissue and muscle from the abdominal area, and reconnecting it to form a breast shape. While the TRAM flap does offer women the opportunity to resume a natural look and feel, it does have drawbacks. Because the TRAM flap removes both tissue and muscle, some women may experience decreased strength in the abdominal area, making mobility difficult.

A newer procedure, the DIEP Flap (Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator Flap), offers women a better choice.

DIEP Flap provides state of the art technology to breast reconstruction. During a mastectomy, skin and tissue removed during the surgery is replaced with skin and soft tissue borrowed from the abdomen. Unlike the TRAM flap procedure, the DIEP flap takes tissue from the abdominal area, but leaves the muscle intact. Giving women the same, natural look and feel without the complications arising from removing the muscle in the abdominal area.

DIEP flap is a delicate procedure, and requires more time and skill on behalf of the surgeon as it requires microsurgery to reconnect the tiny blood vessels. Because the DIEP flap's complexity, the TRAM flap procedure has been more widely used by surgeons. This will be the first time DIEP flap breast reconstruction is offered as a choice to women in Colorado and the surrounding areas.

"We're excited to be able to bring this technology to the women in our local community. We're looking forward to helping women recover from the effects of having a mastectomy as quickly as possible," stated Dr Christopher Williams.

Dr. Jeremy Z. Williams: Is a cosmetic surgeon with Park Meadows Cosmetic Surgery in Lone Tree, Colorado. He spent seven-years at the Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland (ranked by U.S. News & World Report as America's #1 hospital for the last 15 years) training in the area of Plastic and Reconstruction Surgery. He is also an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstruction Surgery at the University of Colorado at Denver Health Science Center and School of Medicine. Dr. Williams has had a lifelong interest in academic plastic surgery, and maintains an active interest in the pursuit of new innovations through research in the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery.

Dr Christopher G Williams: Is a plastic surgeon with Park Meadows Cosmetic Surgery in Lone Tree, Colorado. He spent eight-years at the Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland training in the area of Plastic and Reconstruction Surgery, including craniofacial surgery, facial trauma, microsurgical reconstruction, and aesthetic surgery. He spent an extra six months dedicated to DIEP flap surgery during his ninth year of training.

For more information on DIEP Flap breast reconstruction or Park Meadows Cosmetic Surgery, visit www.ParkMeadowsCosmeticSurgery.com

Online Community for Nurses Targets Stress Relief

2008-12-22T09:41:00.000-08:00

How do nurses spell relief? HCPro, Inc., a leading provider of nursing education and management resources, today launched a redesigned online community that they hope will hold the answer, at StressedOutNurses.com. The community targets the rapidly growing population of both nursing students and new graduates with innovative features that take full advantage of all the current--and future--Web has to offer. Among the new elements on the site are user-generated content tools, including blog posts, videos, photo submissions, and contests.

Marblehead, MA (PRWEB) November 5, 2008 -- How do nurses spell relief? HCPro, Inc. (www.hcpro.com), a leading provider of nursing education and management resources, today launched a redesigned online community that they hope will hold the answer, at StressedOutNurses.com. The community targets the rapidly growing population of both nursing students and new graduates with innovative features that take full advantage of all the current--and future--Web has to offer. Among the new elements on the site are user-generated content tools, including blog posts, videos, photo submissions, and contests.

"Students, new graduates, and experienced nurses need to share successes and challenges and blow off a little steam." says Mike Briddon, a Senior Managing Editor at HCPro. "We wanted to create new eye catching features and content that creates a real online community for that."

The innovative StressedOutNurses.com is aimed at filling a critical need for the growing nurse population. By providing students and nurses with a forum to share study tips, bedside best practices, and answers to clinical questions, it combines practical information with stress relief through activities such as games, polls, and contests.

More information can be found at www.StressedOutNurses.com

About HCPro, Inc: Established in 1986, HCPro, Inc., is a portfolio company of Halyard Capital with corporate offices in Marblehead, MA. Providing information, products, and services assisting healthcare providers in North America and around the globe with regulatory compliance and best practices for healthcare management, the company delivers its mission-critical content in a wide variety of complementary, integrated platforms. Specializing in training programs as well as live events and consulting services, HCPro is the leader in meeting the specific needs of healthcare managers. Flagship HCPro brands include HealthLeaders Media and The Greeley Company. More information can be found at www.hcpro.com

Patient Placement Systems Selects Iatric Systems, Inc. to Deliver Interfaces for MEDITECH Healthcare Information Systems

2008-12-18T09:59:00.000-08:00

Atlanta, Ga. (PRWEB) October 30, 2008 -- Patient Placement Systems, the leading provider of Web-based admissions and referral automation software for hospitals and long-term care (http://www.patientplacement.com/), has selected Iatric Systems, Inc. to develop interfaces for MEDITECH healthcare software solutions. Under the partnership agreement, Iatric Systems will help healthcare providers link their MEDITECH hospital information systems and Patient Care Technologies home health management systems with the Patient Placement Web-based software solutions for online admissions and referral management.

"Iatric Systems has decades of experience developing hundreds of interfaces for MEDITECH systems," said Eric Christ, president of Patient Placement Systems. "Healthcare providers benefit when their software vendors help them make critical software systems work together, and Iatric Systems is an experienced leader that will help our customers connect with the more than 2,200 healthcare providers using MEDITECH and PtCT solutions."

The Patient Placement Discharge Referral System and Referral Management System automate and accelerate admissions and referral processes for continuing care providers and hospitals. The Web-based services replace manual paper-and-fax admissions and discharge referrals with a few simple mouse clicks, helping providers and hospitals admit and place qualified patients faster.

"We've implemented more than 6,000 interfaces to facilities using the MEDITECH healthcare information system," said Joel Berman, president of Iatric Systems. "We're pleased to partner with Patient Placement Systems to help healthcare providers work more effectively. Our interfaces will connect the customer's MEDITECH system with Patient Placement's innovative online referral management and admissions automation software."

About Patient Placement Systems Patient Placement Systems (PatientPlacement.com) helps hospitals and long-term care providers replace mountains of paper and fax frustration with fast, efficient online healthcare software for discharge planning and patient admissions and referral management. Patient Placement Systems is a proud Jackson Healthcare Solutions company, sharing a common dedication to providing the world's best healthcare software, technology and services. For more information, visit www.PatientPlacement.com or call 877-748-6656.

About Iatric Systems: Since 1990, Iatric Systems has been helping hospitals and health systems leverage their HCIS investment by providing innovative software, interfaces and reporting services; most notably for the MEDITECH HCIS. More than 800 hospitals and health systems worldwide have implemented Iatric Systems' solutions in order to optimize patient care and improve workflow efficiencies in clinical, financial and administrative areas. Iatric Systems is committed to providing solutions with exceptional value backed by outstanding customer service. For more information about Iatric Systems, its products, and its services, call 978-805-4100 or visit www.iatric.com.

Susan Lark, MD Offers 5 Tips for Managing Stress During Tough Economic Times

2008-12-18T09:56:00.000-08:00

Susan Lark, MD, noted medical researcher, clinical nutritionist and women's health practitioner, shares her top 5 tips to help deal with the added stress caused by the volatile economy.

Potomac, MA (PRWEB) October 30, 2008 -- Susan Lark, MD, noted medical researcher, clinical nutritionist and women's health practitioner, shares her top 5 tips to help deal with the added stress caused by the volatile economy.

"Without a doubt, these tough economic times can have a lot of negative effects on your body and mind, including stress, insomnia, tension, anxiety, depression, weakened immunity, and illness," says Dr. Lark. "You may be nervous about your future because your retirement accounts have lost value. Or maybe you're concerned about your income or job security. Certainly, there are a lot of scenarios that can cause a great deal of worry right now. That's why it's more important than ever to take a step back, take a deep breath, and focus on what you can control -- your own health."

Here are five Dr. Lark's tried-and-true tips for managing stress:
1. Make sure you sleep soundly at night. Anxiety and depression can lead to sleep disturbances, and without enough sleep, your body and immune system can't function properly. To help you relax and fall asleep every night, Dr. Lark recommends taking 1-1.5 mg of melatonin each evening about two hours before bedtime, although you may see results using as little as 300 mcg.
2. Boost your energy reserves. If you're feeling sluggish and worn out, there are several nutrients that can boost your energy. Dr. Lark recommends taking 250 mcg of vitamin B12 a day, 250 mg of L-tyrosine a day, and/or 1,000 mg of L-carnitine a day in divided doses.
3. Build resistance to illness. Stress can lead to weakened immunity, therefore making you vulnerable to colds, sinus infections, the flu, and other illnesses. You are better off boosting your resistance to illness while you're healthy than trying to build it back up when you're sick. Dr. Lark recommends taking a high-quality multinutrient along with mineral-buffered vitamin C (1-2 grams in divided doses).
4. Reduce stress by exercising. Exercise is one of the best ways to reduce stress-not to mention lose weight and improve your overall health. Dr. Lark recommends going for an hour-long walk every day outdoors in the fresh air. While walking, take your mind off your worries and instead, focus on your breathing and enjoy your surroundings.
5. Stay positive. Having a positive attitude can be tough, especially when everything you hear in the news is negative. But, keep in mind, maintaining a positive belief system is crucial in creating your own reality, even in the midst of a greater reality like the bad economy. So try to identify at least one positive thing every day-even if it has nothing to do with the economy. You also may want to recite upbeat affirmations to yourself, such as "I am a strong, positive, upbeat woman." In addition, nurture your relationships. Financial security may be important, but love is the true currency that you can depend on each and every day without fail.

"The more negative things seem to get, the more crucial it becomes to focus on the good in life-such as love, relationships, and even your health, says Dr. Lark. "I simply won't let worries about the economy affect my health. If you nurture yourself and stay healthy, you can weather any storm. And I tell my patients the same thing."

Dr. Lark has devoted her career to raising awareness of women's health issues, such as PMS, obesity, hormone replacement therapy and osteoporosis. She pioneered the use of women's self-care treatments based on diet, nutrition, exercise and stress management, and has penned twelve books on women's health and healing. Her most recent title is Hormone evolution.

Her monthly newsletter, Women's Wellness Today, and her web site, www.drlark.com, are dedicated to educating and empowering women to make the best choices for optimum health and beauty. Online visitors may sign up for Dr. Lark's free biweekly e-newsletter, which presents breaking health and beauty news along with lifestyle tips, easy recipes and simple exercises for health and beauty.

Healthy Directions, LLC is the recognized leader in providing authoritative health and beauty solutions to consumers. In addition to producing online resources and publishing newsletters, Healthy Directions, LLC encompasses its subsidiary, Doctors' Preferred, Inc. (DPI), a vitamin and nutritional supplement business that markets primarily through direct mail. Located in the Greater Washington, D.C., area, Healthy Directions, LLC (www.healthydirections.com) is a leading publisher in America. The company provides quality products and services for the health and beauty marketplaces.

Laser Spine Institute Helping Patients to "Stand Up and Be Free" from Debilitating Back Pain

2008-11-20T22:39:00.000-08:00

Tampa, FL (PRWEB) November 12, 2008 -- People suffering from chronic back pain are reaching out to an innovative solution helping them to "Stand Up and Be Free" through minimally invasive endoscopic surgery. With facilities in Tampa and Scottsdale, the Laser Spine Institute is revolutionizing the landscape of spinal surgery using cutting-edge lasers and a 5-day process from surgery to recovery, drastically reducing the time it takes for patients to be pain-free and back to doing the activities they love, whether it's being active with their families or enjoying favorite sports. With just a tiny one-inch incision, expert surgeons can correct a variety of back and neck ailments from degenerative disc disease and spinal stenosis to herniated discs and spinal arthritis.

A team of renowned surgeons led by Dr. James St. Louis, a two-time recipient of the Physician of the Year award, have performed more than 8,000 surgeries, perfecting minimally invasive techniques and allowing surgeons to perform multiple procedures in one 60 minute surgery, with less risk and less recovery time than traditional open back surgeries or fusions, and the added comfort of resort-style amenities at a state-of-the-art facility.

Dr. St. Louis explains, "We understand our patients want to dance with their spouses and play 18 holes of golf free from pain. Using laser-assisted techniques, we are able to preserve a full-range of motion for patients, whereas spinal fusion is a restrictive and not always successful fix. Patients desire and deserve an active lifestyle, and our procedures are able to give them back their lives, in as little as five days."

At LSI, patients receive all of their spinal health care needs in one location. From pre-operative imaging and diagnostic testing, to endoscopic laser surgery and post-operative physical therapy, patients receive the highest quality care combined with the most advanced treatments. In today's fast paced world, back pain sufferers don't have time for a six-week recovery from traditional back surgery.

By offering a streamlined 5-day process, LSI allows patients to recover from their minimally invasive endoscopic procedure while enjoying resort amenities at the institute. From massage chairs and catered meals to free internet and a concierge who keeps waiting families in touch with the OR, LSI provides a comforting environment for patients and caregivers.

Former patient and mother, Cheryl Harper found relief and a new outlook after her successful surgery. "The pain took over my life from morning to night. I have two little boys and I was always tired. After surgery, I feel like I've added 10 to 20 years onto my life. Now I'm active, and spending time with my family, especially my two little boys."

Debilitating back pain can affect patient lives socially, emotionally and financially. After receiving life changing surgery, LSI patients are able to return to do doing the things they love whether it's on the golf course, returning to work, or simply bending down to give kids and grandkids a hug.

Potential candidates with back and neck pain can visit www.laserspineinstitute.com or call toll free 1-866-853-6191 for more information on outpatient, minimally invasive spine surgery and upcoming seminars in cities across the United States.

About Laser Spine Institute: Laser Spine Institute offers a successful alternative to traditional open back and neck surgeries. The orthopedic surgeons at LSI can correct painful ailments with endoscopic outpatient procedures. Chronic pain that stems from pinched nerves, herniated discs, bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, foraminal stenosis, spinal arthritis, bone spurs, scar tissue and failed open back or neck surgery can be alleviated with Laser Spine Institute’s minimally invasive approach.

Researchers Tackle CLL, Diabetes and Trauma-Hemorrhage

2008-11-20T22:37:00.000-08:00

Molecular Medicine, a bimonthly, biomedical journal published by The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, strives to understand normal body functioning and disease pathogenesis at the molecular level which may allow researchers and physician-scientists to use that knowledge in the design of specific molecular tools for disease diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, and prevention. Featured in the November/December issue: “Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Cells Recognize Conserved Epitopes Associated with Apoptosis and Oxidation”, “Angiogenesis and Diabetes: Different Responses to Pro-Angiogenic Factors in the Chorioallantoic Membrane Assay”, and “Estradiol’s Salutary Effects on Keratinocytes following Trauma-Hemorrhage Are Mediated by Estrogen Receptor (ER)-± and ER-²”.

(Vocus) November 14, 2008 -- Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) is a disease of the B lymphocytes of the immune system. Under normal conditions, B lymphocytes (or B cells) play an important role in battling infection. CLL is a disease manifested by uncontrolled growth of these B lymphocytes. In this month’s issue of Molecular Medicine, Rosa Catera and her colleagues found that CLL cells react with cells undergoing programmed cell death (apoptosis), and those with the worst outcomes have the most potent reactivity. CLL comes in several forms and has different outcomes for patients. Some can live for years or decades with few symptoms, while others progress quickly into advanced stages of disease and thus have a shorter life expectancy.

Catera and her colleagues have been trying to unravel a curious observation that many of the antibodies in CLL patients share a similar genetic sequence, no matter where in the world they live. The finding suggests that apoptosis generates substances that could stimulate CLL cell growth. In laboratory models, they have shown that this type of reactivity is seen in a small subset of B cells, suggesting that CLL might evolve from this type of normal B lymphocyte. Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Cells Recognize Conserved Epitopes Associated with Apoptosis and Oxidation. Rosa Catera and colleagues can be reached at rcatera @ nshs.edu.

In other major news in the journal, scientists at INSERM in France have evidence that hyperglycemia impedes therapeutic angiogenesis, which could be a problem when designing ways to test these new treatment. Angiogenesis and Diabetes: Different Responses to Pro-Angiogenic Factors in the Chorioallantoic Membrane Assay Giovana Di Marco, Etienne Larger and colleagues can be reached at etienne.larger@college-de-france.fr. Scientists at the University of Alabama report stunning findings of estrogen receptor involvement in trauma and hemorrhage. Estradiol’s Salutary Effects on Keratinocytes following Trauma-Hemorrhage Are Mediated by Estrogen Receptor (ER)-± and ER-². Fariba Moeinpour, Irshad H Chaudry and colleagues can be reached at Irshad.Chaudry @ ccc.uab.edu.

To read the journal online and view this month’s popular podcast go to www.molmed.org. For more information contact Margot Puerta, managing editor of Molecular Medicine at 516-562-1129.

Substance in Red Grapes and Wine Key to Alzheimer’s Disease

2008-11-20T22:36:00.000-08:00

Scientists at The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research have figured out why a substance in red grapes and red wine lowers amyloid beta levels that accumulate in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients.

Washington, DC (Vocus) November 16, 2008 -- Scientists at The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research have figured out why a substance in red grapes and red wine lowers amyloid beta levels that accumulate in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. Medicines targeting amyloid beta that make up the clumps in the hallmark plaques are now in many phases of experimental testing. The hope is that clearing out amyloid beta before it accumulates could stave off the disease and reduce symptoms. Scientists at the Feinstein hope to develop this natural substance, called resveratrol, or synthetic versions, for the treatment of Alzheimer’s.

Valorie Vingtdeux, PhD and their colleagues have discovered that a specific kinase – AMPK – controls Abeta levels. AMPK is an interesting protein because it is a metabolic sensor in the cells and throughout the body. It senses levels of ATP, the body’s fuel source. When ATP levels drop, AMPK is activated to prepare the cells to adjust to the metabolic change in the body – when fuel is low. It’s like a driver moving along at 50 and slowing down when it realizes that there is trouble ahead.

Resveratrol activates AMPK and in turn this protein lowers Abeta levels. Dr. Vingtdeux presented these findings at the Society for Neuroscience annual meeting in Washington, DC, this week. The work has been done so far in cell culture but Philippe Marambaud, PhD, who oversees the research, said there is every reason to believe that a similar process takes place in nature. “We hope that this result will translate into beneficial effects for Alzheimer’s patients someday,” said Dr. Marambaud. This is an important finding because the scientists identified a new potential molecular target – AMPK – to lower Abeta levels in Alzheimer’s. It also opens the door to considering more potent analogs of resveratrol. Feinstein scientists are now screening libraries of substances to see whether there are any compounds that could mimic the effects found in this substance. As it is, the amounts found in grapes and wine are small and it would not be feasible to ingest enough to have a benefit. The Feinstein chemists have identified several compounds that are now in different stages of testing.

Dt. Marambaud said that there are drugs available that are used for type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome and obesity that activate AMPK.

Quick Medical and Clarity Partner to Help Meet the Needs of the Hearing Impaired

2008-11-20T22:34:00.000-08:00

Quick Medical Supply and Clarity, the leading provider of communication devices for the hearing impaired announced today an alliance to provide more products, services and education to the hearing impaired population.

Chattanooga, TN (PRWEB) November 17, 2008 -- Clarity®, a division of Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) and the nation's leading supplier of amplified telephones and other communications devices for the hearing impaired, announced an alliance with Quick Medical a national supplier of medical supplies who will provide Clarity with distribution channels for the Clarity line of hearing assisted devices.

"We are very excited about the partnership with Quick Medical and all of the opportunities it will bring to Clarity. We are particularly pleased to help Quick Medical reach their vast customer base. Quick Medical has a proven track record of excellent distribution channels and customer service; we are looking forward to the variety of tools and services that will now be available to both companies", said Steve Woods, National Sales Manger for Clarity. "We believe that by working with Quick Medical we can reduce cost and provide more products and services to our customers."

As a national distributor of medical supplies since 1993, Quick Medical has been experiencing strong sales growth; by adding the Clarity line of devices, Quick Medical will provide added value to their services, meet the ongoing customer requests for Clarity devices, increase Clarity distribution channels and help to reduce cost.

"Clarity is the leading provider of sound amplification devices. They provide customized solutions for individuals who otherwise could not communicate easily and effectively with the outside world," said Scott Hanna, President and CEO for Quick Medical." At Quick Medical we carry a complete line of home medical products, so we believe that by adding the Clarity devices we will help to reduce cost and help meet the special needs of the home care patients." Mr. Hanna went on to say, "older Americans value their ability to live independently and as a company, we must find ways to help our parents and grandparents live their latter years at home. We must make aging in place a national priority and a reality for older Americans."

About Quick Medical: Quick Medical is a Medical Supply Store offering a large selection of medical equipment and medical supplies. Established in 1993 we currently offer over fifteen thousand medical products. Quick Medical offers a large selection of home health supplies and fitness products; we are an authorized distributor for Tanita scales, seca, Detecto, and Health O Meter. We also provide the largest selection of medical scales available on the internet. If you're looking for medical equipment, we have a large selection of medical furniture, medical cabinets, medical casework, medical exam tables, medical lighting, x-ray equipment and physical therapy products.

About Clarity: Clarity(R), a Division of Plantronics Inc. (NYSE:PLT), is a leading supplier of amplified telephones, notification systems, assistive listening devices and other communications devices for the hearing loss and deaf markets. A leader in sound amplification, Clarity's patented technologies, Clarity(R) Power(TM) and Digital Clarity Power(TM), provide customized solutions for customers who otherwise could not communicate easily and effectively with the outside world. As more people begin to address their hearing needs, Clarity will continue to provide effective technologies that are simple and easy to use. The company began in 1969 as a telecommunications manufacturer, and was acquired in 1986 by Plantronics, Inc., a leading provider of headsets to business and individual consumers worldwide.

Healthcare Experts Weigh in on Financial Crisis: Hospitals Facing Tight Credit Must Seek Creative Expense Control

2008-11-20T22:28:00.000-08:00

While much has been written about how the economic crisis is affecting hospitals, IMA Consulting provides real and achievable solutions for cost management. The experts recommend a new evaluation of discretionary spending and close monitoring of labor productivity.

Chadds Ford, PA (PRWEB) November 17, 2008 -- Hospitals, long used to slim margins and careful expense management, must seek new and creative ways to manage expenses in the wake of the nation's financial crisis, according to healthcare experts at IMA Consulting. In a recent customer briefing, experts from IMA Consulting clarified the financial challenges through the healthcare lens, and recommended that hospitals compensate by reducing discretionary and supply spending and closely monitoring labor productivity.

The Effect of the Crisis on Hospitals: "Hospitals already face limited access to and increased costs of capital, along with decreased returns on investments," said Mary Ann Holt, RN, a senior partner in IMA Consulting's operations improvement practice. "One hospital client has seen his interest rate on short-term demand notes quadruple, moving from below two percent to almost eight percent in fewer than three weeks."

This challenge to financing comes at a time when many hospitals have significant building and renovation projects in process. Modern Healthcare reports that acute care projects, including new hospitals, expansions, and renovations, exceeded $251 billion nationwide last year. The demand for new and updated facilities, with expanded diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities, fuels the demand for healthcare financing.

"Health providers are also dealing with the same declines in investment income facing all of us, but given the 'trickle down' payment structure of healthcare, many are also bracing for payment delays from state-funded programs, and from insurers seeking to retain short term cash," said Holt.

"Providers are also concerned about patients delaying treatments due to high co-pays and therefore increasing the severity of their illness and cost of care," said Holt. "A recent hospital survey cited in the New York Times found that patient admissions were down nearly 3% versus 2007."

Suppliers are also passing on cost increases, and hospitals are bracing for reduction in charitable giving. But according to Holt, the biggest impact may stem from debt financing bonds, which require certain performance levels. Decreased revenues and increased costs may call debt covenant ratios into play and trigger potentially draconian measures by bondholders to assure financial viability.

Seek New Sources of Savings, With an Eye on Productivity: While one obvious solution is to reduce the financial burden holding off on major capital projects, IMA Consulting also recommends that hospitals take a new and creative look at expenses and productivity.

"Crisis can mean opportunity, and we are encouraging our clients to find savings through less traditional approaches," said Holt. "Labor costs often take top priority, but our analysis shows that discretionary spending, such as marketing, travel, and professional fees, presents new opportunities to save."

IMA Consulting's analysis of three years of expense data from recent client engagements shows that as salaries, benefits and supplies were decreasing or remaining steady, discretionary spending was creeping upwards. When each expense category is reviewed against the number of patient discharges, IMA's calculation of the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) puts the spotlight again on discretionary spending.

(The numbers below are the percent of spending in year one and year three. The last number is the compound annual growth rate)
Labor 51 % 47 % 3%
Supplies 25 % 25 % 6%
Discretionary24 % 28 % 8%

"Discretionary spending can be a black hole for hospitals, as data is limited on the exact nature of some expenses," said Holt. "Our clients who clarify program-specific costs by category are better equipped to determine the strategic importance of each program and the related costs."

IMA also recommends that hospitals trend spending by account over time, determining which accounts have experienced the greatest increases and targeting the understanding of the decisions that drove those increases. In addition, IMA helps clients find comparative data from hospitals of similar size and complexity. This analysis then triggers discussions about the changes necessary to further reduce costs.

"While supply costs remained steady in our analyses, we still encourage clients to review this category to reduce both costs and environmental impact," said Holt. "We recently helped a client achieve $300,000 in savings by eliminating the one-time use disposable supplies. While savings was the goal, the reduced environmental impact was also appreciated by staff and patients."

In addition to expense management, IMA Consulting recommends increased attention to productivity. By monitoring the variable workload standard of each department on a bi-weekly basis, leadership can get a better grasp on demand.

"Department managers should be accountable for flexing staffing to meet the variable workload demand, and senior leadership should review any vacant position with an eye to eliminating or distributing the workload performed by that role."

To read the full report that appears in the November IMA Insights, go to www.ima-consulting.com/insights

About IMA Consulting: Founded in 1996, IMA Consulting exclusively supports hospitals and health provider organizations, providing customer-focused, cost-effective solutions to the toughest problems in healthcare management. Service lines include operations improvement, financial services, revenue management, revenue recovery and related educational services. IMA Consulting currently provides services and solutions to over 600 healthcare organizations across the United States.

Zero MRSA or Patient Infections Reported After Two Years as D.I.S.C. Sports and Spine Center Sets New Standard for Specialty Hospitals

2008-11-20T22:22:00.000-08:00

D.I.S.C. Sports and Spine Center, proudly announces its surgical center is "infection free" after an initial two years of operation where over 2,000 procedures have been performed, according to Dr. Robert S. Bray Jr., founding director and CEO. This outpatient specialty hospital has taken a variety of proactive measures to reduce the risk of infection along with instituting very stringent protocols and procedures to ensure the safety of the patients.

Marina del Rey, Calif. (Vocus) November 20, 2008 -- D.I.S.C. Sports and Spine Center proudly announces its surgical center remains "infection free" which includes the highly-virulent bacteria MRSA. This is after two years of operation with over 2,000 procedures performed and extremely proactive measures implemented to combat infection according to Dr. Robert S. Bray Jr., founding director and CEO. In a study released in 2007, the CDC estimated there were 4.5 hospital infections for every 100 patient admissions resulting in nearly 100,000 deaths. With the increased resistance to infection-fighting drugs, especially the potent MRSA bacteria, these figures are alarming.

"Our goal from day was to redefine how patient care was delivered and we are extremely proud of how our hard work has paid off by minimizing the risk of patient infections," Dr. Bray said. "This is a highly-significant accomplishment and we are extremely proud of our achievement. We have proven through a comprehensive and strategic plan that our procedures, protocols and technologies can have a dramatic impact in ensuring patient safety and saving lives."

The outpatient specialty hospital is a fully-integrated medical group featuring next generation diagnostics, conservative care and a state-of-art surgical center. With three digital ORs, D.I.S.C. specializes in minimally invasive outpatient spine procedures including fusion, motion preservation, lumbar reconstruction and microdiscectomy along with orthopedic procedures including joint replacement, cartilage preservation and reconstruction.

With the explicit goal of minimizing the risk of infection in the 7,200-square foot surgery center, Dr. Bray made a strategic decision to install a $750,000 environmental air conditioning system throughout the entire center. Special attention was given to the three ultra clean operating rooms installing individual true 99.71% efficient HEPA filters to further eliminate any comingling of bacteria. With 30 air exchanges/per hour this filter exceeds the industry standard.

As an added level of protection, D.I.S.C. installed UVC Emitters (ultraviolet) in all critical area air moving units to destroy incoming airborne germs, bacteria and microorganisms including the highly-lethal anthrax. This level of protection is unprecedented in a medical facility and is the same type of system used by the CDC in Atlanta.

Moreover, very stringent policies were developed to address the basic functioning and hygiene of the surgery center. These protocols encompass patient contact, hand washing, outside clothing regulations along with minimal use of catheters. D.I.S.C. has also begun pre-screening high-risk patients for MRSA.

"When I founded D.I.S.C., I made a commitment to our patients to provide a higher standard of care," Bray said. "We will continue to be vigilant, pro-active and do everything in our power to ensure the safety of our patients and staff in all situations."

About Dr. Robert S. Bray, Jr.: Dr. Robert S. Bray, Jr. is widely recognized as one of the world's preeminent neurological spine surgeons. The first California neurosurgeon to specialize in minimally invasive procedures, he is at the forefront of the revolutionary innovations taking place in this highly skilled field. With numerous patents and inventions to his credit, he is committed to reducing surgical trauma to the patient, with better mobilization and faster, less painful recovery times. His illustrious career has spanned 27 years, with more than 9,000 micro procedures performed and 27 Fellows trained. A graduate of Baylor School of Medical School, he rose to the rank a major in the US Air Force and was the chief of neurosurgery at the David Grant Medical Center. In 2002, he became the founding director of the Institute for Spinal Disorders at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. Under his leadership, it grew into the one of the premier spine centers in the U.S.

About D.I.S.C. Sports and Spine Center: Dr. Bray founded D.I.S.C. Sports and Spine Center in Marina del Rey, Calif., with the vision of developing a new model for delivering comprehensive health care for sports medicine, orthopedic and spine ailments. Offering both established and innovative solutions, D.I.S.C. is distinguished by a multi-disciplinary approach conveniently housed in one location, offering an unmatched continuity of care. With more than 20 board certified physicians, D.I.S.C. provides next generation diagnostics, preventative, conservative and rehabilitative care, along with one of the country’s most advanced surgical centers specializing in minimally invasive spine procedures and advanced arthroscopic techniques, D.I.S.C. is the Official Medical Center of the Los Angeles Kings, Los Angeles Clippers and USA Volleyball, For more information please contact D.I.S.C. at (310) 574-0400 or visit their website at: www.discmdgroup.com.

Quadriplegic Man Defied the Odds, Continues to Inspire

2008-11-20T22:00:00.000-08:00

In honor of National Disability Awareness Month, personal development coach and photographer, Laura Young, launches a line of products inspired by Michael Schwass. Schwass, the first quadriplegic to walk again without the aid of braces, will be the recipient of all proceeds.

Chicago, IL (PRWEB) October 18, 2008 -- Michael Schwass was a star high school athlete with dreams of playing professional hockey when an injury during a championship series left him paralyzed. While his team went on to win the Illinois State Championship, Michael channeled his indomitable spirit into achieving the impossible. Befriended and encouraged by Chicago Blackhawks great, Keith Magnuson, Schwass overcame incredible odds, ultimately becoming the first quadriplegic to walk again without the aid of braces.

Thirty-three years later, Schwass continues to surpass expectations, surviving well past his anticipated lifespan. His autobiography, Don't Blame the Game outlines the principles he employs to maintain his motivation and focus. He has gone on to inspire disabled and able-bodied alike as a motivational speaker, therapist, and life coach.

In honor of National Disability Awareness Month, fellow life coach and photographer, Laura Young, has created a line of products inspired by Schwass.

"Michael is arguably the single most influential person in my life. His grace, dignity and strength of character are astounding. Through the example he has set while enduring great suffering, he has absolutely inspired me to become a better person. I owe him a debt of gratitude. I created my book, All Is Well, to honor him in recognition of the principles he has taught me to live by."

All profits from All Is Well and the All is Well Collection of photography prints and cards which accompany them have been designated by Young to benefit Schwass for his ongoing medical care.

"People don't realize what it takes just to get him out of the house every day," says Young. "Not only is Michael supporting himself and paying outrageous health care costs but he has a staff of seven working behind the scenes doing everything from helping him set up speaking engagements and managing his office to making sure he can get in to bed at night and dressed in the morning."

"He has done such a great service in challenging beliefs about what is possible with a spinal cord injury. It took him six years of fierce dedication to take that first step. I think it is important that we recognize and honor that contribution. I would love to see a show of support for his ongoing challenges especially this month as we try to raise awareness of the needs of disabled everywhere."

Further information on Michael Schwass is available at www.dontblamethegame.com. Learn more about Laura Young's coaching services and gallery offerings by visiting her site, No Safe Distance. (http://www.nosafedistance.com)

Linfield College Announces Accelerated Online RN to BSN Program

2008-10-29T19:08:00.000-07:00

(PRWEB) October 17, 2008 -- Linfield College is launching an accelerated, online RN to BSN degree for registered nurses across the country.

Beginning February 2009, registered nurses can complete Linfield's RN to BSN degree in eighteen months. Previously, this program took twenty-one months.

A majority of the coursework can now be completed on-line. Online courses are perfect for RNs with schedules that demand flexibility. Students do most of the work on their own schedule and post assignments by a certain time each week. The final two nursing courses are tailor-made, onsite clinical experiences, which frequently take place at the RNs current place of employment.

Students continue to have the option of completing the program in twenty-one months.

Each RN in the Online RN to BSN program must be a registered nurse with a current, unencumbered license, have at least a 2.75 GPA in prerequisite and Linfield curriculum courses and provide a letter of reference from their supervisor. The majority of students in Linfield's RN to BSN program are fully employed RNs.

The Online RN to BSN Program is provided by the Linfield College-Good Samaritan School of Nursing, accredited by CCNE, in partnership with the Linfield Adult Degree Program. It is based on the high quality on-campus Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree that began in 1983.

To learn more about Linfield's online RN to BSN program, email or call Gloria Flower, Enrollment Specialist, gflower @ linfield.edu, 503-287-3191.

About Linfield College: Chartered in 1858, Linfield is one of the oldest colleges in the Pacific Northwest and is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Linfield's Division of Continuing Education offers working adults the opportunity to earn a bachelor's degree or certificate in both online and hybrid (combination online and classroom) settings. For more information, check out their website at: http://www.linfield.edu/dce/degrees/rn_to_bsn.php

Breakthrough Baldness Genetic Test

2008-10-29T19:05:00.000-07:00

A groundbreaking genetic test to identify those most at risk from hair loss is now available in the UK for both men and women.

UK (PRWEB) October 17, 2008 -- A groundbreaking genetic test to identify those most at risk from hair loss is now available in the UK for both men and women.

Currently only available at Farjo Hair Transplant Clinic, the simple, non-invasive test can determine whether an individual is genetically pre-disposed to pattern baldness. The test uses a DNA sample collected from a cheek swab.

The Hair DX screening test is suitable for those who are concerned about hair loss, or who have a family history of baldness. The objective of the test is to identify those at high risk of pattern baldness before they begin to lose their hair. Advances can then be taken to reduce the onset of pattern baldness.

Current diagnosis of pattern baldness relies on visual observations alone. However, once hair thinning is visible, around 50 per cent of hair will have been lost from that area of the scalp already.

Dr Bessam Farjo, co-founder of Farjo Medical Centre, said: "The genetic test enables risk of pattern baldness to be assessed before hair loss occurs. Earlier intervention and treatment give patients the best chance of success, as the only FDA approved medications to combat hair loss - minoxidil and finasteride - are most effective at stabilising hair loss rather than stimulating re-growth."

The test for male pattern baldness provides information on the presence of a specific gene variation on the X chromosome. Men who test positive are at high risk of developing early-onset male pattern baldness.

The test for female pattern baldness provides women with a score, called a CAG repeat score. A smaller test score is associated with a higher risk for significant hair loss.

Dr Bessam Farjo and his wife Dr Nilofer Farjo head up Farjo Medical Centre. They carry out more than 300 hair transplant operations each year at their Manchester clinic. More than 4,000 people have travelled to the clinic from across the UK, Europe and as far as the Middle East, Australia and the United States, including high profile celebrities such as Kyran Bracken (Rugby Player and Dancing on ice) and Shaun Williamson (actor).

The centre has an international reputation for not only using the latest hair transplantation techniques - recognised throughout the surgical field - but for placing significant emphasis on developing pioneering ways to counter hair loss, including a state-of-the-art test procedure whereby a patient's hair follicles are cloned.

For more information, check out their website at: www.farjo.com

Physicians Favor Stem Cell Research; Disagree on Ethical Issues at the Heart of the Debate

2008-10-29T18:59:00.000-07:00

Physicians who generally favor advancement of stem cell research in terms of its actual or potential benefits don't always agree on the ethical issues at the heart of the stem cell research debate, according to a recent survey commissioned by Jackson & Coker.

Alpharetta, GA (PRWEB) October 15, 2008 -- Physicians who generally favor advancement of stem cell research in terms of its actual or potential benefits don't always agree on the ethical issues at the heart of the stem cell research debate, according to a recent survey commissioned by Jackson & Coker Industry Report.

"Among physicians and healthcare professionals who have some familiarity with stem cell research and participated in our survey, there appear to be firmly held positions that largely revolve around ethical questions related to embryonic stem cell research," mentions Jackson & Coker Vice President, Ed McEachern.

"While the vast majority of survey respondents favored accelerating stem cell research, including more funding, there was considerable difference of opinion related to what does or does not 'cross the line' in terms of ethical propriety," he notes.

Survey summary: The survey, entitled "The Stem Cell Research Debate," was sent during September to physicians across major specialties and other healthcare providers throughout the United States, with 550 responding. Here is a summary of responses to key questions by survey participants

• 68% of respondents were medical doctors; 10% were advanced practitioners; 3% were hospital administrators; and 2% were medial scientists.
• 92% were either somewhat or very familiar with stem cell research.
• 53% believed that stem cell research affects their own practice, at least to some degree.
• 66% felt that stem cell research should include embryonic stem cells; 24% were strongly opposed to this line of research.
• 44% indicated that it's not a valid concern to question stem cell research on the premise that "it's creating life to destroy life"; 20% maintained it is a valid concern; 35% responded that both sides of the issue deserve to be addressed.
• 57% indicated that it is unavoidable that medical scientists involved in stem cell research are to some extent influenced by ethical concerns of those outside the medical profession; 13% believed that such influence should be minimized as much as possible.
• 35% felt that stem cell research has the possibility of being a "slippery slope" that can possibly lead to human cloning or some other form of extraordinary genetic manipulation; 63% doubted this outcome.
• 26% favored sole reliance on adult stem cells as a possible way of sidestepping the heated ethical debate; 26% believed relying solely on adult stem cells would be appropriate; 16% were not sure on this key question.
• 59% maintained that there should be greater government support for stem cell research; 19% felt the current level of government backing is appropriate; 9% had no opinion on the matter.
• 55% believed that stem cell research might be actually encumbered "to a great extent" by political posturing of elected officials; 20% indicated "to a moderate degree"; and 15% felt "not very much."

Despite disagreement on ethical matters at the heart of the debate, there was general consensus that medical science has identified numerous actual and potential benefits of some forms of stem cell research

Benefits of stem cell research: According to survey respondents, stem cell research holds many benefits in terms of cutting-edge medical advancement affecting many different medical specialties. Specific benefits could nclude the following:

--Improve peripheral circulation
--Tissue regeneration after wounds
--Better understanding of human reproduction
--Advance in vitro fertilization technology
--Regenerate retinal tissue related to macular degeneration
--Increase physical mobility for disabled patients
--Treat leukemia, diabetes, hypertension, spinal traumas, MI's
--Bone barrow transplantation
--Regenerate cardiac muscle after heart failure
--Treat Crohn's disease
--Slow growth of tumors
--Fetal gene therapy
--Development of bone substitutes
--Treat psychiatric patients with parkinsonism, tardive dyskinesia, etc.

Respondents' comments provided by survey respondents indicate the range of positions that many healthcare professionals take when debating stem cell research:

• "Stay away from the embryonic stem cells. [This eliminates the ethical debate!"
• "Avoid the inevitable controversy of embryonic stem cell research by focusing all funds and research on adult stem cells."
• "Stop religious organizations from getting involved with interpretation of science and technology."
• "Clarify the advantages to adult stem cell research. Also expose the financial gains that are the real issue behind the embryonic stem cell research."
• "Only truly qualified experts should give scientific facts and not opinions on the ethical aspects of the research. Most physicians are not qualified to weigh in on the debate in this arena."
• "Scientifically study the true capabilities of both embryonic and adult stem cells and reach a truthful conclusion."
• "Use of stem cells from discarded embryos is analogous to transplanting organs from cadavers--essentially finding some benefit in a tragic situation."
• "My personal opinion has little to do with the practice of medicine and research. Where would modern medicine be without the past research?"
• "We should be respectful of various opinions but point out that the goal here is to improve and save lives."

Conclusion: Stem cell research is a popular debate topic among health care consumers as well as those in the medical profession. The survey showed that despite general agreement that stem cell research is a promising frontier for advancing medical care, healthcare practitioners are divided over key philosophical and ethical questions.

Such questions include: When does human life begin? Is it permissible to bring to cessation that which has the potential for viable human life for the purpose of advancing medical research? Is embryonic stem cell research "crossing the line" in terms of what is acceptable medical science? Is it advisable to use stem cells from embryos that will be discarded during in vitro fertilization attempts? What about embryos that result from voluntary pregnancy termination? Does it sidestep the ethical debate to concentrate solely on use of adult stem cells or other non-embryonic sources of stem cells?

'No one has definitive answers to the ethical concerns at the heart of the stem cell debate," advises Jackson & Coker President, Sandra Garrett. "Our survey points out the linkage of these questions with consideration of what direction stem cell research should take in the future. Metaphorically, it's like a 'horse that's left the barn." with no turning back. Only time will tell what destination it reaches," she adds.

The entire survey can be accessed online at The Jackson & Coker Industry Report (http://www.jacksoncoker.com/newsletter/Long_9282008.aspx)

About Jackson & Coker: Jackson & Coker is a prominent physician recruitment firm with three decades of experience identifying physician jobs. Headquartered in Alpharetta, Ga., the firm places physicians in over 40 medical specialties such as Psychiatry Jobs; Surgery Jobs; Primary Care Jobs; Anesthesiology Jobs; Radiology Jobs; as well as advanced practitioners (such as CRNAs) in temporary (locum tenens) assignments and permanent placement opportunities.

Jackson & Coker is a member of a "family of companies" known as Jackson Healthcare (JH). The corporation provides information technology and human resources solutions to hospitals and healthcare organizations across the country. Jackson Healthcare has the distinction of being voted among "Atlanta's Top 10 Best Places to Work" and designated by Inc. Magazine as among "The Fastest Growing U.S. Private Companies."

More information concerning Jackson & Coker---along with the monthly Jackson & Coker Industry Report--can be found at www.jacksoncoker.com

Expert Robotic Prostate and Bladder Cancer Surgeon Joins the Vanguard Urologic Institute at the Texas Medical Center in Houston

2008-10-29T18:52:00.000-07:00

A highly accomplished Robotic Surgeon and Urologic Oncologist, Dr. David K. Ornstein, M.D., recently joined the Vanguard Urologic Institute and staff of Memorial Hermann Hospital in the Texas Medical Center. Dr. Ornstein will utilize his expretise in robotic radical prostatectomy and robotic cystectomy to improve the outcomes of patients with prostate cancer and bladder cancer, respectively.

Houston, Texas (PRWEB) October 12, 2008 -- Dr. Ornstein joined the Vanguard Urologic Institute as Director of Urologic Oncology and Medical Director of the Vanguard Urologic Research Foundation. He will also be Associate Professor within the Center for Clinical and Translational Sciences, University of Texas Health Sciences Center, Houston.

The Vanguard Urologic Institute was founded with the singular goal to reduce pain and suffering from urologic diseases. The Institute is located in the new Memorial Hermann Medical Plaza within the Texas Medical Center of Houston. The newly formed Vanguard Urologic Institute is a state-of-the-art clinical and research facility. Vanguard patients benefit from the extensive expertise of Vanguard Urologists and the availability of the latest technologies to facilitate urologic care. The clinical operations of the institute utilize an electronic medical record system that maximizes physician efficiency and facilitate accurate record keeping and clear communications. This allows Vanguard doctors and nurses to spend more of their time taking care of patients and less time managing paper work. Vanguard patients will have on-site access to state-of-the-art equipment for video-urodynamics, flexible cystoscopy and power doppler ultrasonography for prostate and kidney imaging. The Vanguard histopathology laboratory assures accurate and timely interpretation of prostate biopsies and other urine and blood tests. Through a collaborative arrangement, Vanguard patients will have access to the most advanced radiation therapy technology (IMRT) for the treatment of localized prostate cancer.

The Vanguard Urologic Institute is affiliated with Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center, the flagship hospital for the Memorial Hermann Hospital System. Among it's many advanced medical technologies Memorial Hermann, Texas Medical Center has 4 DaVinci Robotic Surgical Systems and houses one of the largest and most active robotic surgical training centers in Houston.

Dr. Ornstein was awarded the Doctor of Medicine degree at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1992. He completed an internship in general surgery at St. Luke's/Roosevelt Hospital Center, Columbia University and a residency in urology at Washington University. In June 2000, he completed a fellowship in the Urologic Oncology Branch of the National Cancer Institute (NCI), where he was an NCI/American Foundation of Urologic Disease Scholar.

Prior to joining the medical staff at Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center and the faculty of the University of Texas Health Science Center-Houston, Dr. Ornstein was Assistant Professor of Urology and Chief of the Division of Urologic Oncology at the University of California, Irvine. He held a concurrent appointment as medical director of Robotic Surgery and Urologic Oncology at the Todd Cancer Institute, Long Beach Memorial Medical Center in Long Beach, California.

The 2007 recipient of the Young Investigator Award from the Society of Urologic Oncology, Dr. Ornstein was named to "Best Doctors in America" in 2006 and 2007. He holds memberships in the American Urological Association, the Society of Urologic Oncology, the Society of Basic Urologic Research and the American Association of Cancer Research. He has served on the editorial board of Investigative Urology, Clinical Proteomics, Human Genomics and Proteomics, and is a reviewer for multiple other medical and scientific journals. He has been principal investigator on several National Institutes of Health and Department-of-Defense funded research grants. His current clinical and translational research interests include, optimizing robotic surgical procedures for urologic cancers, prostate cancer biology and biomarker development. He was been awarded several career development awards including The Young Investigator Award from the Prostate Cancer Foundation, the Edwin Beer award from the New York Academy of Medicine and an award from the California Cancer Coordinating Committee.

Dr. Ornstein, a pioneer in robotic urologic oncology, has a very active clinical practice with a primary focus on urologic oncology and prostate cancer detection. Having performed more than 400 robotic surgical procedures for prostate cancer, bladder cancer and kidney cancer, Dr. Ornstein is one of the most experienced robotic surgeons in the Houston metropolitan area. He has published extensively and regularly lectures nationally and internationally on robotic surgery as well as prostate, bladder and kidney cancer.

To contact Dr. Ornstein call (713) 366-7800 or see www.DavidOrnsteinmd.com or www.vanguardurology.com.

Nerve Stimulation Therapy Alleviates Pain for Chronic Headache

2008-10-29T18:49:00.000-07:00

A novel therapy using a miniature nerve stimulator instead of medication for the treatment of profoundly disabling headache disorders improved the experience of pain by 80-95 percent, according to a new study from the University of California, San Francisco and the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery in London.

(Vocus) October 9, 2008 -- A novel therapy using a miniature nerve stimulator instead of medication for the treatment of profoundly disabling headache (www.ucsf.edu) disorders improved the experience of pain by 80-95 percent, according to a new study from the University of California, San Francisco and the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery in London.

The findings give doctors the promise of a non-drug treatment option for pain sufferers unable to tolerate indometacin, the standard medication known to cause stomach bleeding in some patients. Findings are reported online at www.thelancet.com and also will appear in the November 2008 issue of "Lancet Neurology."

Up to 35 million Americans suffer migraine and other forms of headache, according to the American Academy of Neurology.

"We need a range of treatments to offer patients whose lives are taken over by debilitating headaches," said Peter J. Goadsby, MD, PhD, lead author, neurologist and director of the UCSF Headache Center. "It's quite exciting to think about how technology will advance in the next five years to provide remarkable devices for the treatment of headache. Preventive approaches like these will completely change the landscape of headache treatment."

The device, called a bion, is a rechargeable battery-powered electrode, similar in size to a matchstick. When implanted near the occipital nerve in the back of the neck, it alleviates pain by generating pulses that the nerve receives. The bion can be turned on or off via an external wireless remote control. Previous versions of the bion have been used in pain management for osteoarthritis and in the treatment of dislocated joints for patients recovering from stroke.

The study measured the effectiveness of nerve stimulation in six patients aged 37 to 64 with hemicrania continua, a rare headache disorder defined by the International Headache Society as a form of chronic daily headache in which patients have 15 days or more of headache per month.

At the beginning of the study, participants underwent a minimally invasive surgery to have the bion implanted at the occipital nerve. Each participant then received continuous stimulation of the nerve for the first three months. The device was switched off for the fourth month, ensuring that patients did not receive stimulation of the occipital nerve during that time, and switched on again at month five.

Switching off the bion enabled researchers to measure whether the device - rather than the placebo affect - was responsible for pain modulation.

To test long-term safety and efficacy of nerve stimulation therapy, follow-up sessions with the patient, a researcher and a device technician occurred once per month for four months.

Patients kept diaries, at hourly intervals during waking hours, which included a pain severity scale ranging from 1 to 10 points. Participants shared their diaries with researchers after the fifth month.

Researchers found that within a range of six to 21 months after implantation of the bion, five of the six patients reported sufficient benefit to recommend the device to other patients with hemicrania continua. Similar results were reported in 2007 by two other research teams studying patients with chronic cluster headaches.

At long-term follow-up, four of the six patients reported substantial pain improvement at a level of 80 to 95 percent, one patient saw a 30 percent improvement, and one patient reported that his pain worsened by 20 percent.

Overall, the research team found that participants not only improved with the bion therapy, but their pain worsened when the bion was switched off during the fourth month. In addition, diary submissions revealed an overall reduction in the pain score of five to eight points.

"The treatment of migraine and other chronic headache pain can be a considerable challenge to physicians. Not all patients can tolerate the appropriate medicines, and the side effects leave patients and doctors in a difficult position," Goadsby said.

"We have the opportunity to afford a huge change in quality of life for these patients. The bion was well tolerated, and neuromodulation is proving an effective and safe option, particularly in cases when patients have difficulty stomaching indomethacin."

The study is the first systemic use of the second generation of neurostimulators for the alleviation of primary headache, according to researchers. Occipital nerve stimulation is currently being studied for use in migraine treatment.

The study received external support from Boston Scientific Neuromodulation.

Co-authors on the paper were Brian Burns, MRCP, and Laurence Watkins, FRCS, of the Institute of Neurology at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London.

The UCSF Headache Center is the first program of its kind in the nation, combining laboratory research with inpatient and outpatient clinical care to further understand the many dimensions of headache and migraine pain while improving treatment through clinical research.

UCSF is a leading university dedicated to promoting health worldwide through advanced biomedical research, graduate-level education in the life sciences and health professions, and excellence in patient care. For more information check out their website at: www.ucsf.edu

Austin Dentistry Clinic Now Offers Certified Full Service Sedation Dentistry -- All Gain, No Pain

2008-10-29T13:55:00.000-07:00

Austin Smiles, the dental clinic of Dr. Michael McCarty, is now offering full service sedation dentistry to its clients. Sedation dentistry is the answer for those who need dental work and yet dread the dental office. New techniques and procedures have made it safe and comfortable for people to have dental work done without having the lingering memories of a painful experience. Dr. Michael McCarty from Austin Smiles tells us a bit more about this new option for the Austin community.

Austin, TX (PRWEB) September 29, 2008 -- Austin Smiles is reaching out to the Austin community by offering certified sedation dentistry services to those who fear dental procedures, and to those who are just looking for a more comfortable experience altogether. Dreading to visit the dentist is a widespread feeling--it is estimated that as many as 75% of American adults experience some degree of dental fear. Five to ten percent are so afraid of pain that they avoid dentists at all costs, until their dental issues are so severe they require drastic measures.

Things are changing. At Austin Smiles, a successful cosmetic dental practice led by Dr. McCarty, clients don't have to be uncomfortable during their procedure.

Dr. McCarty explains, "Austin Smiles always strive to provide the best possible care for each of our clients. In the case of a client who avoids dental procedures, because of pain, sedation dentistry helps us accomplish this goal by safely and effectively creating a relaxed, anxiety-free environment."

Sedation Dentistry is a technique in which sedative pills are used to achieve an overall calm and relaxed sensation. During the procedure, the patient does not actually sleep, but because of the effect produced by the medication, they may feel sleepy. Throughout the process, the patient is always conscious and able to verbally understand and respond to the dentist.

Using sedation dentistry, clients often feel the procedure only lasts a few minutes - when in reality, it may have taken hours to perform. Many times sedation also makes it possible to perform complex dental procedures in one or two sittings that would normally require numerous visits.

Austin Smiles specializes in inhalation sedation (also known as laughing gas or nitrous oxide) and oral sedation, which enable the client to complete a procedure without the lasting memories of an otherwise painful experience. These methods are safe, conservative and provide the most comfortable experience possible for the client.

"Sedation dentistry is the answer for many Americans who long for a great smile but dread the dental office. It is a valuable tool that gives our clients the opportunity to undergo critical and non-critical procedures that they might have otherwise avoided because of fear and anticipated pain." Dr. McCarty concludes, adding that most people rarely feel any discomfort after the procedure is over.

Dr. McCarty offers free consultations to new patients at www.AustinSmiles.com.

Medical Machines Online Announces Release of a Refurbished Acuson Cypress Ultrasound System

2008-10-29T13:52:00.000-07:00

The online medical equipment specialists at Medical Machines Online are announcing the release and availability of a great refurbished ultrasound, the Acuson Cypress Ultrasound System.

San Diego, CA (PRWEB) September 26, 2008 -- Medical Machines Online is happy to announce the release of a refurbished ultrasound machine, the Acuson Cypress Ultrasound System. This like-new system is one of many used pieces of discounted medical equipment available online, and it is a practical solution for clinicians at hospitals, clinics and physician offices during these tough economic times.

Portable ultrasound systems have been newly introduced to the medical imaging community, and this Acuson Cypress ultrasound system has been modified and upgraded so that it includes all the capabilities of a full size Acuson system. This ultrasound system is fast becoming the gold standard for portable medical ultrasound systems. This medical ultrasound system allows doctors and clinicians to extend the reach of echocardiography, because it is so lightweight and portable that it can be moved wherever it is needed. Whether it's in the echo lab or a patient's bedside, Emergency Room, Critical Care Unit or physician's office, this portable ultrasound is the best way to bring echo diagnostic power anywhere it's needed.

Even on the most technically difficult patient, this Acuson Cypress ultrasound system provides complete studies and clear images with its highly miniaturized, all digital, phased array echocardiography system. There is not room for compromise or repeat studies with today's medical equipment, and this system offers a full range of medical imaging capabilities to make sure the whole health picture is available to physicians. The Acuson Cypress comes with harmonic mode, high frame rate color flow mapping, Doppler, stress echo, digital image management and built-in DICOM connectivity.

This quality refurbished ultrasound system is one of many new and used medical equipment pieces on the Medical Machines Online website: medicalmachinesonline.com. Medical Machines Online is proud to offer this durable and fully tested Acuson Cypress Ultrasound System, and many other fantastic medical equipment pieces. As the demand for quality new and refurbished medical equipment rises, the quality and selection offered by medical equipment and EKG machine specialists should meet the demand with zeal!

About Medical Machines Online: Medical Machines is a hospital, physician's office and home medical equipment supplier and is the online shopping source for everything in new and used medical equipment. They offer a fantastic selection of all the best brand names in medical equipment, including Nihon Kohden, Burdick, Schiller, Welch Allyn, Cardioline, General Electric, Bionet, Dr. Lee, Fukuda Denshi, Brentwood / Midmark, Mortara, Philips, QRS and more. With these great names, we hope you can find the perfect new and refurbished EKG / ECG machines, patient monitors, dental equipment, defibrillators, bone densitometers, blood analyzers, pulse oximeters, ultrasound machines and stress test EKG's for your little corner of the medical community. For more information, check out their website at: www.medicalmachinesonline.com

Study Confirms Effectiveness of Magnetic Therapy in Pain Relief

2008-10-29T13:49:00.000-07:00

In a study entitled Optimization of Static Magnetic Field Parameters Improves Analgesic Effect in Mice published in Bioelectrocmagnetics 28: 615-627, 2007, the Hungarian Academy of Science finds multiple static magnetic fields utilizing Gradient Medical's QuadraBloc™ design to be optimal and to have an analgesic effect of greater than 80 percent.

Memphis, TN (PRWEB) September 25, 2008 -- The Hungarian Academy of Science has found the patented static magnetic field (SMF) configuration used in Gradient Medical's QuadraBloc™ to be the optimal configuration and more than 80 percent effective in providing pain relief. The QuadraBloc™ is a device that produces a unique static magnetic steep field gradient that when properly applied, results in both immediate and long-term analgesia for successful pain management (http://www.quadrabloc.com/vital.html).

"The static magnetic field optimization study conducted by the Hungarian Academy of Science adds to the growing body of scientific evidence that this particular static magnetic field can provide pain relief," said John Townsend, president of Gradient Medical. "We believe that the findings of this new study will generate greater awareness in the international scientific community regarding the potential applications for the QuadraBloc™ technology. This static magnetic field optimization study is intended to to define the optimum field and to then provide an insight into the magnetic therapy benefits of a non-drug, non-invasive, non-contact, non-pain, and non-addictive method for providing analgesia with both immediate and long lasting effects, based on the stimulus of the endogenous opioid network."

The Hungarian Academy of Science used mice to test the analgesic effect with a variety of static magnetic fields. An experimental group was injected with acetic acid and exposed to static magnetic fields, while a control group was injected with the acid but not exposed to the magnetic fields. The researchers then used the writhing test to measure how much pain the mice felt, determined by how much they writhed. Based on the study's data, multiple QuadraBloc™ static magnetic fields were found to be the optimal SMF configuration and to have an analgesic effect of more than 80 percent.

This optimal arrangement of static magnetic fields, as indicated by the study's results, is the foundation for the QuadraBloc™ magnetic therapy (http://www.quadrabloc.com/). The QuadraBloc™ is designed to generate this unique static magnetic field such that, when the device is placed directly over the targeted nerve, the steep field gradient disrupts the nerve's pain signals to the brain. Rather than simply dulling the pain, as do over-the-counter and prescription drugs, the QuadraBloc's™ magnetic field literally alters the electrochemical transduction of the pain signals..

"This study shows that pain relief does not require pharmaceuticals with potentially dangerous side effects," Townsend said. "In many cases the QuadraBloc™ magnetic therapy offers both a low cost and substantial pain relief,with neither the potential side effects nor any risk of addiction."

About Gradient Medical: For more than a decade, the QuadraBloc's™ creators have been pioneers in the field of magnetic therapy. After AmWay's 10-year license for the QuadraBloc's™ predecessor, the MagnaBloc™, expired in April of 2008, Gradient Medical was established to manufacture and sell a more powerful design. Since the analgesic properties of this unique static magnetic field were first discovered at Vanderbilt University, scientists and researchers at other universities around the world have independently confirmed the effectiveness of the QuadraBloc.™ For more information about QuadraBloc™ and other magnetic therapy products by Gradient Medical, visit www.QuadraBloc.com.

Advancing Medical Technology from Space

2008-10-29T13:45:00.000-07:00

Many giant leaps for mankind through thousands of NASA innovations. The Coalition for Space Exploration, the leading collaboration of space industry businesses and advocacy groups, announced today the release of a statement by board member Dr. Bernard Harris Jr., who was the first African American to walk in space and served as a mission specialist and payload commander on two Space Shuttle flights. Dr. Harris comments on the role of medical research in space and the importance of NASA, Cognress and the International Space Station (ISS) in realizing these medical breakthroughs.

Houston, TX (PRWEB) September 24, 2008 -- The Coalition for Space Exploration, the leading collaboration of space industry businesses and advocacy groups, announced today the release of a statement by board member Dr. Bernard Harris Jr., who was the first African American to walk in space and served as a mission specialist and payload commander on two Space Shuttle flights.

In recent editorials to newspapers, Harris highlights the role of medical research in space, commenting that "few may realize that a truly 'bright light' for medical research can already be viewed in Earth orbit - the International Space Station (ISS). The launch of the first ISS element took place some 10 years ago. Today, the ISS is an orbiting facility with unparalleled microgravity research capability, able to do investigative tasks that cannot be done on Earth.

"Research conducted in the microgravity of space is seen as a promising window into drug treatments for such crippling afflictions as diabetes, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, pancreatic cancer, cystic fibrosis and hemophilia."

Harris went on to comment, "NASA and Congress realize these benefits and are now partnered to make use of the United States segment of the ISS as a national laboratory. Research done onboard this orbiting outpost will open new paths for the exploration and economic development of space.

"Already in place is a memorandum of understanding between NASA and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) - the first agreement between the space agency and another U.S. federal agency for use of the station as a national lab."

Harris concluded, "While the benefits of space exploration extend beyond the medical arena, the breakthroughs in medicine and healthcare cannot go unnoticed or undervalued. Imagine what the next 50 years of innovation and pioneering discovery can bring, particularly onboard the ISS. This robust commitment assures that our country will continue its decades-long bond between our nation's space program and medical research…one that has yielded life-saving benefits."

To view Harris' complete comments on NASA's impact on medical research, please view Advancing Medical Technology from Space at: http://www.spacecoalition.com/Published_Op-Eds.cfm

About the Coalition for Space Exploration: The Coalition for Space Exploration is a collaboration of space industry businesses and advocacy groups whose mission is to educate and inform the public on the value and benefits of space exploration and to help ensure the United States will remain a leader in space, science and technology - key factors that will benefit every American, strengthen our nation's economy and maintain our national security. For more information, please visit the Coalition for Space Exploration at: www.spacecoalition.com

Healthcare CEO Releases 'My Healthcare is Killing Me'

2008-10-29T13:41:00.000-07:00

Co-authors practical, how-to book to help consumers traverse today's frustrating American healthcare maze

Nashville, Tenn. (PRWEB) September 24, 2008 -- American consumers who've felt confused navigating their healthcare and healthcare insurance now have a compass to point them through the morass -- a new book that guides them in simple language through the American healthcare system.

"My Healthcare is Killing Me: A Survival Guide for the American Healthcare Consumer" demystifies today's healthcare and healthcare insurance worlds so readers can better traverse the process and begin making smarter healthcare decisions more advantageous to them and their family.

Written by Robert Hendrick, Christopher Parks and Katrina Welty, three authors who share what they know about the American healthcare system, the book simplifies complex issues such as "quality vs. cost," "multiple insurances," "managing your healthcare" and "comparing health plans" in a sometimes tongue-in-cheek ways.

It's available through Borders, Barnes & Noble and Amazon.com, or can be downloaded free at: www.myhealthcareiskillingme.com

"I initially intended the book to help newly hired employees of our company better understand the healthcare industry and what we do," lead author Robert Hendrick said. "But with more of healthcare's cost being pushed onto consumers' shoulders, we felt these practical tools needed to get into the public's hands to help them deal with their personal healthcare."

The company Hendrick references is change:healthcare, a consumerism informatics start-up founded in 2007 with fellow author Christopher Park. Its genesis stemmed from Park's loss of both parents from cancer.

Unable to make heads or tails of the mountain of medical bills that accompanied their care, Parks developed an online service he called MedBillManager, which helped consumers track and manage their medical billing paperwork.

Today, the bill management tool and company have evolved into one ushering in a new consumerism long missing from the healthcare industry and helping employees improve their lives while companies improve their bottom lines. Copies of "My Healthcare is Killing Me" are now being given to every change:healthcare business client for employee distribution.

"We just want to see consumers implement the book's lessons and live a better life," Hendrick said. "More transparency in this industry and consumers taking greater personal control of their healthcare is satisfaction enough." For more information, check out their website at: www.changehealthcare.com

New Study Confirms Link Between Pain Pumps and Cartilage Damage -- Searcy Denney Law Firm Investigates Claims

2008-10-29T13:36:00.000-07:00

South Florida law firm Searcy Denney Scarola Barnhart & Shipley PA (Searcy Denney) has stepped up its investigation into claims stemming from the use of pain pumps following a recent study confirming their dangers.

West Palm Beach, FL (PRWEB) September 22, 2008 -- South Florida law firm Searcy Denney Scarola Barnhart & Shipley PA (Searcy Denney) has stepped up its investigation into claims stemming from the use of pain pumps following a recent study confirming their dangers. According to the new study, the medication delivered by these pumps causes significant cartilage damage. This study confirms and explains earlier reports of adverse outcomes associated with pain pump use. The cartilage damage caused by these pumps results in a condition known as Post Arthroscopic Glenohumeral Chondrolysis (PAGCL), which can lead to significant pain, disability, repeat surgery and not infrequently, the necessity for total joint replacement.

Published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine and presented in July 2008 at this year's American Orthopedic Society for Sports Medicine meeting, the in vitro study measured the extent of cartilage damage caused by directly exposing cartilage to various concentrations and amounts of the pain medicines commonly used in these pumps. After seeing compelling evidence of cartilage destruction, the authors concluded the use of some medications should be discontinued. Others were recommended for use in minimal concentrations and for very short periods of time.

This study follows an earlier study finding pain pumps caused severe cartilage damage. Published by the American Journal of Sports Medicine (AJSM), the prior study found a strong association between the use of high volume pain pumps after arthroscopic surgery and a loss of cartilage in the shoulder. Doctors reviewed 177 shoulder cases and found a staggeringly high incidence of PAGCL in only those cases where intra-articular pain pumps were used.

We are now learning that these intra-articular pain pumps are being used after many types of joint surgery. Symptoms of joint damage include pain, increased stiffness, grinding or popping when the joint is in motion, decreased or limited range of movement and sometimes pain when the joint is at rest. If severe, the condition can progress to the point bone is rubbing on bone within the joint. The condition can be diagnosed through x-rays, which will show a narrowing of the space in the joint of the shoulder.

"Our clients as well as others are experiencing devastating complications from these pain pumps" said Cal Warner an attorney for Searcy Denney. "They often require numerous repeat surgeries and cannot work. Most concerning is the fact many of these patients are young athletes who face a lifetime of disability because the manufacturers failed to adequately test their products and instruct the medical community of the risk of complications."

The primary medical device manufacturers for the pumps include I-Flow, Inc., DJO Inc., BREG Inc., and Stryker Corporation. Searcy Denney has set up a hotline to answer consumer questions about pain pump injuries. For more information, go to www.searcylaw.com.

About Searcy Denney Scarola Barnhart & Shipley, PA: A nationally recognized trial law firm, Searcy Denney Scarola Barnhart & Shipley, P.A. is committed to protecting and vindicating the rights of people injured through negligence, deceit and abuse of power. Over the past 30 years, the firm has represented clients in courtrooms throughout Florida and across the nation. For media interviews, contact Derede McAlpin at 202-973-1314.

American TeleCare (ATI) Provides Telehealth Technology and Program Support Services to the Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) of Hudson Valley in New Yo

2008-10-29T13:32:00.000-07:00

VNA of Hudson Valley Relies on ATI to Expand its Telehealth Program and Launch a New Telehealth Initiative for its affiliate Hospice Care in Westchester & Putnam, N.Y.

Minneapolis, MN and Tarrytown, NY (PRWEB) September 18, 2008 -- American TeleCare, Inc. (www.americantelecare.com) (ATI), the leader in the development and application of video-based telehealth solutions and intelligent monitoring, announced that the Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) of Hudson Valley (Tarrytown, N.Y.) has selected ATI for telehealth technology and program support services. VNA of Hudson Valley is doubling the size of its existing telehealth program and pioneering the application of telehealth for hospice care with ATI solutions and support. Under the agreement, ATI is providing 52 ATI LifeView™ Patient Stations and a full range of program planning and training services.

"American TeleCare's LifeView system is best-in-class, and their expertise is invaluable," said Rae Szymanski, executive vice president and chief operating officer, Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) of Hudson Valley. "ATI has reviewed all our telehealth policies and procedures and formulated process improvements. They are also conducting training, helping us develop a marketing plan, and collaborating with us to design our new telehealth program for Hospice Care."

"The Visiting Nurse Association of Hudson Valley is at the forefront when it comes to using telehealth to supplement and enhance home care," said Randall Moore, M.D., M.B.A.,
chairman and chief executive officer, American TeleCare. "They have come up with an innovative concept for applying telehealth to keep home care hospice patients and their family members connected via remote access to a nurse to help alleviate fears and increase comfort. We expect that the program we are developing together will become a national model."

ATI's LifeView Telehealth System combines remote patient monitoring with interactive video for televisits. LifeView Patient Stations are placed in patients' homes. They are compact, easy-to-use monitors that gather information from questions that patients answer as well as objective clinical data from integrated medical peripherals (including blood pressure monitors and blood glucose meters). Care teams use LifeView Provider Stations to connect to Patient Stations, manage ongoing monitoring, conduct televisits, and carry out care plans. ATI's telehealth technology enables clinicians to customize care plans based on the specific needs of individual patients. Clinical scoring algorithms summarize health risks associated with a patient's vitals, physiological measurements and responses to questions according to individualized key indicators and levels as pre-determined by clinicians for each patient.

Hospice Care in Westchester & Putnam, an affiliate of VNA of Hudson Valley, is the area's largest provider of home care hospice services to individuals with advanced or life-threatening illness. Hospice Care promotes living with dignity, hope and support. The comprehensive services offered include palliative care that provides expert pain and symptom management to enable individuals to remain at home with quality of life and physical comfort. In addition, Hospice Care assists family members by supporting them in managing stress and coping with a loved one's illness.

About VNA of Hudson Valley: Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) of Hudson Valley, based in Tarrytown, N.Y., is a free-standing, not-for-profit, certified home healthcare agency that has earned the trust of the community through over a century of service. The mission was then -- as it is today -- to provide compassionate care to all those who need it, regardless of their ability to pay. As a multi-faceted organization, VNA of Hudson Valley offers and coordinates a broad array of home health services which are available to all patients who can be treated at home instead of a hospital, or who need follow-up care after a hospital stay. Care is provided for people of all ages, from infants to seniors, 24 hours a day/7 days a week. Additional information is available at www.vnahv.org.

About American TeleCare: Founded in 1993, American TeleCare (ATI) is the pioneer of video-based telehealth technology and intelligent monitoring. With proven experience in clinical process re-engineering, ATI works with leading healthcare organizations to put their patients at the center of care teams and supports them with best-in-class solutions. ATI systems connect continuous healing relationships and deliver essential information for clinical and self care. Ongoing monitoring and constant care of patients at home keeps them connected to clinical expertise and prevents acute events. The results: 100-200 percent increases in provider productivity and 65-95 percent reductions in emergency room and inpatient costs -- achieved as care teams help physicians watch over, improve and maintain their patients' health. For more information, visit www.americantelecare.com. Then call 800-323-6667.

Nursing Continuing Education Online Launches using Open Source Solutions

2008-09-18T10:22:00.000-07:00

Open source solutions for the web bring nursing continuing education online. Online classroom implementation has never been easier than with open source content management and learning management systems. Now, nurses can receive nursing continuing education credit at www.healthcmi.com.

Santa Cruz, CA (PRWEB) September 5, 2008 -- The Healthcare Medicine Institute (HealthCMI) launches nursing continuing education online courses using open source solutions for the web at www.healthcmi.com . "Open source solutions allow our learning management systems to operate on any type of server and all browsers including those for Mac OSX, Windows, and Linux thereby bringing the online classroom to all nurses with access to the internet," notes Adam White, President of the Healthcare Medicine Institute. At HealthCMI, nurses simply download course materials, take an online quiz, and automatically receive a certificate of completion for nursing continuing education credit. "HealthCMI provides California Board of Registered Nursing approved online courses. In addition, HealthCMI is adding Florida Board of Nursing certification as well as certification for Washington D.C. and national certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center," notes Adam White.

It seems that integrative medicine may be the future but HealthCMI's integrated technology is in wide-scale use today. HealthCMI uses the Joomla! open source content management system to implement learning management systems for end users such as acupuncturists, nurses, and dentists. Joomla! gets financial support for code development projects from Google and open source organizations. Joomla! is considered one of the largest and most powerful open source content management systems in use today. It is employed worldwide for everything from small-scale websites to large-scale corporate applications. The advantage for HealthCMI is that multitudes of plug-ins are produced by the open source community for Joomla! . This facilitates the secure, powerful, and ergonomic implementation of systems for operating an online classroom.

Known for its acupuncture continuing education online division, HealthCMI launches the nursing continuing education online division with three important courses on the treatment of high cholesterol and triglycerides. "The hyperlipidemia series of nursing continuing education online courses addresses the acute need for education concerning this serious medical condition affecting millions of people worldwide. Part one of this series provides the western medical understanding of high cholesterol and high triglycerides. Part two provides dietary remedies for high cholesterol and triglycerides while part three provides herbal remedies from the Chinese medical tradition," notes Adam White. Mr. White explains that open source learning management systems used by HealthCMI allow authors in China and the U.S.A. to seamlessly collaborate on research and educational documents. This allows for the sharing of information between the acupuncture and nursing continuing education divisions of the institute. The result is a comprehensive approach to addressing high cholesterol and high triglycerides with the best of western and Chinese medicine combined. "The future of medicine is integrative medicine -- East meets West. People want solutions and a combined effort raises the bar of educational standards," notes Mr. White.

"Nursing continuing education online has never been easier and it now joins our acupuncture continuing education online classroom presence on the internet," notes Mr. White. Next, HealthCMI plans to complement its medical education offerings by implementing an online classroom learning environment for its dental continuing education division. "At HealthCMI, we are dedicated to quality educational materials for medical professionals. We strive to improve the quality of information available for the acupuncture, nursing, and dental communities," notes Mr. White. In addition to its educational offerings, the Joomla! open source system employed by HealthCMI allows for the distribution of HealthCMI's medical news and information systems.

About HealthCMI: HealthCMI is the online division of the Healthcare Medicine Institute. HealthCMI provides online continuing education courses to medical professionals for acupuncture, dental, and nursing applications. The Healthcare Medicine Institute is dedicated to supporting a consortium of authors and presenters in providing valuable, useful, and interesting medical works in an effort to raise medical standards of education worldwide. For more information, check out their website at http://www.healthcmi.com/

Neural Stem Cells May Help Repair Spina Bifida in Utero

2008-09-18T09:18:00.000-07:00

Pilot animal study shows promising results in the treatment of a this congenital defect before birth.

(Vocus) September 9, 2008 -- A pilot animal study led by researchers from Children's Hospital Boston provides preliminary evidence that delivering neural stem cells (NSC) into the spinal cord, along with surgical coverage of the defect while in utero, may help repair spina bifida before birth. The delivered cells engrafted selectively in the most damaged areas of the spinal cord, remained viable, and produced neurotrophic and neuroprotective factors locally, the first steps in initiating a reparative process. The findings appear in the September issue of the journal, Surgery.

Spina bifida is a condition in which a portion of the spinal cord and its surrounding structures develop outside, instead of inside, the body. The defect develops at around the fourth week of gestation and can occur anywhere along the spine. Children with spina bifida suffer from partial paralysis, urinary and fecal incontinence, and musculoskeletal deformities. The condition has an overall mortality rate of 14 percent at 5 years.

Fetal surgery to repair this defect has been available for over a decade; however, the outcomes have shown limited improvement on spinal cord function. Only now is a large multicenter clinical trial comparing fetal repair to postnatal closure underway.

The Children's Hospital Boston researchers hypothesized that the surgery needs to be augmented by tissue regeneration techniques.

Dario Fauza, MD, of the Department of Surgery and Advanced Fetal Care Center at Children's, and colleagues studied a model of spina bifida in fetal lambs, involving a severe form of the condition known as myelomeningocele, in which a fluid-filled sac containing the spinal cord and nerves is visible outside of the back. Hoping to reverse a portion of the spinal cord damage, they used NSCs, which have previously been shown to mediate repair in a number of central nervous system abnormalities. To maximize the cells' regenerative impact, researchers administered the NSCs at 97-112 days of gestation (full term being 145 days) during the development of the spinal cord, rather than operating later in the more mature fetal stages. "To date, all that has been attempted is the prevention of further insult to the cord, rather than repairing the damage that has already occurred in utero," notes Fauza.

The Children's researchers, along with colleagues from Harvard Medical School and the VA Boston Healthcare System divided the animals into three groups. Group I saw no repair; Group II received standard surgical repair, with the open neural tube being covered by skin; and Group III received the same repair, plus an injection of NSCs directly into the spinal cord.

Once the surgery was completed, researchers monitored the fetuses through the remainder of gestation. Upon the birth of the animals, two examiners performed a basic clinical evaluation to check motor and sensory skills. The survival rate was significantly lower in Group I (44 percent) than in Groups II (86 percent) or III (89 percent). The incidence of partial paralysis was also significantly worse in Group I compared with Groups II and III.

Group III showed a slightly lower incidence of partial paralysis than Group II, but the difference did not reach statistical significance. "In this introductory study, our goal was to validate the model and therapeutic concept by documenting the NSC survival, engraftment and early phenotypical patterns," said Russell Jennings, MD, of the Department of Surgery and Advanced Fetal Care Center at Children's. "Furthur studies will look at different forms of NSCs and alternative delivery methods, and will also provide the longer-term data needed to get a better idea of how successful repair in utero will prove to be for humans."

Though this research is in the beginning stages, the initial findings, paired with the vast amount of information on the use of NSCs in other forms of spinal cord injury, support further investigation into this prenatal approach.

The study was supported by a grant from the former Harvard Center for Minimally Invasive Surgery and by the Kevin and Kate McCarey Fund for Surgical Research, at Children's Hospital Boston.

Children's Hospital Boston is home to the world's largest research enterprise based at a pediatric medical center, where its discoveries have benefited both children and adults since 1869. More than 500 scientists, including eight members of the National Academy of Sciences, 11 members of the Institute of Medicine and 12 members of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute comprise Children's research community. Founded as a 20-bed hospital for children, Children's Hospital Boston today is a 397-bed comprehensive center for pediatric and adolescent health care grounded in the values of excellence in patient care and sensitivity to the complex needs and diversity of children and families. Children's also is the primary pediatric teaching affiliate of Harvard Medical School. For more information about the hospital and its research visit: www.childrenshospital.org/newsroom.

Health Agencies Urge Parents to Protect Kids from Mosquitoes as West Nile Virus Cases Surge

2008-08-20T15:05:00.000-07:00

Repellent Bug Bam! wristband is all-natural alternative to DEET products.

Los Angeles, CA (Vocus) August 12, 2008 -- Health officials across America are reporting a surge in cases of West Nile Virus and urging parents to protect children from the mosquito bites that spread the potentially deadly disease. The virus causes serious symptoms in about 20 percent of infected people, and so far this year is linked to two deaths in Arizona and Mississippi, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Arming kids with insect repellent, installing window and door fly-screens and draining sources of stagnant water are recommended protective measures during peak infection period, from early August through October, according to the CDC.

Conventional liquid insect repellents are often messy, smelly and rely on a chemical pesticide called DEET, which may irritate skin and eyes. But the new Bug Bam! Insect Repelling Wristband is the only 100 percent natural repellent scientifically-proven by leading US entomology labs to repel mosquitoes and other biting insects in 98 percent of the population.

Bug Bam Products' natural, FDA-approved ingredients safely repel mosquitoes by emitting plant odors that mask the natural body odors that entice mosquitoes. The EPA-approved natural ingredients used in Bug Bam products - citronella, geranium and lemongrass - are also kind to the environment, according to Australian outdoors enthusiast, environmentalist and founder of Bug Bam Products, Joseph M. Symond, who developed the wristband in response to the swarming mosquitoes that thwarted his wilderness adventures.

Endorsed by the National Camp Association, the fun, bright red Bug Bam wristband, which sports the words "Because Mosquitoes Suck" - protects a child or adult for up to 100 hours, unlike traditional chemical repellents, which are diluted by water and perspiration and must be reapplied throughout the day. Left unopened in the packet, the wristband remains effective for

up to two years. The product comes in packets of one or two wristbands. People with severe allergies to fragrances of essential oils should consult an MD before using Bug Bam! products.

Entertaining Solutions: For safe, hassle-free indoor and outdoor entertaining and camping, the Bug Bam Camp Grids, plastic hanging grids that repel biting insects for up to 100 hours across a 300-square-foot area. The 5-inch-square grid comes in a vapor-proof zip-locked re-sealable bag and is reusable for up to two years. Bug Bam also sells a value pack containing one grid and five wristbands.

Bug Bam's wristband and hanging grid products are now available at select U.S. retailers, including Wal-Mart and BJs and online at www.bugbam.com.

About West Nile Virus: While 80 percent of people exposed to West Nile Virus never experience symptoms, up to 20 percent suffer debilitating symptoms such as fever, headache, and body aches, nausea, vomiting, swollen lymph glands or skin rashes, according to the CDC.

About one in 150 infected people develop serious complications such as high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis. Rarer is potentially fatal West Nile encephalitis, or brain inflammation; and West Nile meningitis, inflammation of membrane in the brain and spinal cord.

So far in 2008, WNV cases in humans have been reported in Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, West Virginia and Wyoming, according to CDC data. Further instances of the avian disease have been reported in birds, insects and animals in other US states.

Why a Powerful Natural Repellent is Preferable to Chemical Repellents: DEET, or diethyl-meta-toluamide, is the chemical pesticide most commonly used in insect repellents. In some instances DEET causes eye and skin irritations and reactions, and in rare cases, is associated with seizures, according to the National Pesticide Information Center. The American Academy of Pediatrics urges parents not to use DEET products on children younger than 2 months and to apply the products a maximum of once a day to children older than 2 months.

More Tips for Avoiding Mosquitoes:

Avoid fragrant hair spray and cologne.
Particularly avoid exposure when mosquitoes are most active, at dusk and dawn.
Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes lay eggs, such as flower pots, bird baths, ponds, neglected pools and hot tubs, open boats and wheelbarrows.
Install or repair window and door screens.
Report dead birds to local authorities. Mosquitoes carry the virus from birds to humans.
Band with neighbors to clean up stagnant water in local parks

Bug Bam Testimonials: "We had our annual Memorial Day BBQ. The usual uninvited bugs came out in force. We decide to try out the Bug Bam products we recently received. Within moments the annoying pests were gone. The product did its job and what my guests and I also appreciated was how easy to use this all-natural product is." -- Jeff Solomon - Director, National Camp Association

"In Oklahoma we have mosquitoes the size of small sparrows. I never heard another complaint after the Bug Bam arrived." -- Spokesperson for the National Veterans Golden Age Games in Norman, Oklahoma - VA Medical Center, Oklahoma City, OK.

"Not only did Bug Bam work, it alleviated some of our main concerns regarding the insect issue, the prevalence of Malaria and the evening inundation of insects into our one-man tents." -- Dual Olympic Heptathlete, Jane Flemming of Australia, who led a trek through the Papua New Guinea jungle.

BIOGRAPHY: Joseph M. Symond, creator of Bug Bam! Products: Australian entrepreneur and avid outdoorsman Joseph M. Symond developed the Bug Bam range of products as a result of his own frustrating encounters with mosquitoes while enjoying the great outdoors. Symond began creating natural remedies for mosquitoes back in 1998, and, seeing a broader need for a natural, chemical-free eco-friendly mosquito repellent, he developed the DEET-free food-grade Bug Bam bracelet in 2004. Symond, who lectures and speaks publically on the dangers of mosquito exposure, has expanded Bug Bam's range of products to include the Bug Bam Camp Grid and Bug Bam pet-collar. Symond's commitment to developing socially responsible products has its roots in a near-fatal attack he suffered age 14 by a Blue-Ringed Octopus, for which there is no anti-venom.

Concierge Medicine--Premier Medical Service for a Price

2008-08-20T15:01:00.000-07:00

With patients demanding a greater level of customer service during office visits and physicians receiving reduced amounts of income through standard insurance reimbursements, a growing trend in the healthcare profession is the practice of "concierge medicine." However, there are important ethical and legal questions that surround this controversial approach to patient care, as discussed in a special report in the most recent edition of the Jackson & Coker Industry Report entitled "Concierge Medicine--A Growing Trend?"

Alpharetta, GA (PRWEB) August 13, 2008 -- With patients demanding a greater level of customer service during office visits and physicians receiving reduced amounts of income through standard insurance reimbursements, a growing trend in the healthcare profession is the practice of "concierge medicine." The premise behind this concept is that some patients are willing to open their wallets wider to pay for a "premier" level of medical service and personal attention.

However, there are important ethical and legal questions that surround this controversial approach to patient care, as discussed in a special report in the most recent edition of the Jackson & Coker Industry Report entitled "Concierge Medicine--A Growing Trend?"

"Admittedly, concierge medicine is making some significant inroads into the healthcare community, but there are important questions that need to be addressed concerning this innovative practice model," mentions Sandra Garrett, president of Jackson & Coker.

Understanding the Concept: Often referred to as "boutique medicine," "direct practice," "retainer practice," or "innovative practice design," concierge medicine is not a brand-new concept. For the last dozen years, a growing number of physician practices in the United States have experimented with the concept of offering a more personalized approach to treating patients who are willing to pay more out-of-pocket fees for shorter wait times during office visits, lengthier consultations, 24/7 access to their primary care physician via cell phone, and, in some instances, house calls by someone on the medical staff.

All of this is for a price. Often times, concierge practices offer a tiered-approach to fees for service. On top of customary insurance billing, the practice may charge patients annual fees ranging from $1,000 per person or upwards of $15,000 to $20,000 per family.

Thomas W. LaGrelius, MD, FAAFP, president of the Society for Innovative Medical Practice Design (SIMPD) simpd.org, addresses the matter of cost: "The range of fees goes down to as low as $39 per month for full care concierge services" in some practices. "The national average is less than $150 per month and membership levels as low as 50 patients. The average practice has about 600 patients as its cap. Keep in mind, the most expensive concierge doctor with the fewest patients is the White House doctor."

Some critics of concierge medicine raise this important question: How can healthcare practitioners justify concierge medicine on the upper end of the tier, given the fact that an estimated 40+ million of U.S. residents lack any insurance coverage at all? Furthermore, by making medical treatment even more costly, doesn't this widen the current disparity in healthcare delivery that is of concern to many segments of society?

"Such critics are short-sighted. Insurance is the problem, not the solution," mentions Dr. LaGrelius. "Most primary care doctors today run from room to room with seven-minute visits accomplishing next to nothing in the pursuit of generating enough CPT codes to keep the office solvent. Half the money paid to health plans and government for health care is wasted."

"Concierge doctors have been shown to cut high tech and hospital costs by as much as 60-85%. Insurance is not a useful tool in the delivery of primary care. Such care should be purchased directly, thus eliminating the costly, meddlesome middle man," he points out.

In fact, proponents of concierge medicine stipulate that for a modest $100 - $200 monthly retainer, along with higher deductibles to cover serious emergencies, providing patients significantly greater personalized medical attention is actually cheaper than traditional insurance-based healthcare models.

Direct practice proponents would further argue that this approach to patient treatment is intended to bridge the gap between theory and practice concerning consumer-driven medicine, and as such might serve as a viable model for reformed healthcare care in America.

Lingering Questions: No matter which side of the argument one supports, there are lingering questions that concern all sectors of the healthcare community, as the JCIR special report notes. For instance, the American Medical Association (AMA) emphasizes that licensed physicians are obligated to provide the same level of care to all patients treated, regardless of their economic status. (Direct practitioners would emphasis that they also abide by this ethical standard.)

With respect to consumer satisfaction, patients who pay out-of-pocket $10,000 or more for family medical care certainly expect a different level of service than they have previously received.

Quality of care is judged by recipients of medical treatment, regardless of the cost, explains Dr. LaGrelius: "Keep in mind, the average concierge fee today is less than $150 per month. Most Americans pay more for cable, cell phone bills and cigarettes. Concierge medicine costs, like cell phones, are going down and such care is being used by more and more average Americans. That trend will continue. Most innovations start with wealthier people and then become generalized."

Furthermore, there are ethical and legal matters concerning when and how to inform current patients when a medical practice transitions to a retainer-based model. Patients who cannot afford concierge-level medical care must be given the opportunity to continue seeing competent physicians whose services are more affordable.

Concierge physicians have no problem with this stipulation, but point out that their approach to primary care medicine is to rule in, not rule out, persons who can benefit from access to "direct practice medical homes," much like the Dr. Welby-type practices of yester-year. Or at least that's their visionary goal.

As healthcare costs and delivery models are hotly debated in this political season, a fresh spotlight shines on innovative practice design, which will undoubtedly gain much more attention in the foreseeable future.

Ms. Garrett comments: "Our special report on concierge medicine raises concerns for all segments of the healthcare community. Though an interesting concept, it remains to be seen how widespread concierge medicine will be adopted by patients and practitioners who generally agree that improving customer service is a priority in our consumer-driven society."

About Jackson & Coker: Begun in 1978, Jackson & Coker is a prominent physician recruitment firm headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia. The firm places physicians in over 40 medical specialties as well as advanced practitioners (such as CRNAs) in temporary (locum tenens) assignments and permanent placement opportunities.

Jackson & Coker is a member of a "family of companies" known as Jackson Healthcare (JH). The corporation provides information technology and human resources solutions to hospitals and healthcare organizations across the country. Jackson Healthcare has the distinction of being voted among "Atlanta's Top 10 Fastest Growing Companies" and designated by Inc. Magazine as among "The Fastest growing U.S. private companies."

More information concerning Jackson & Coker -- along with the monthly Jackson & Coker Industry Report--can be found at www.jacksoncoker.com.

Gerbig Engineering Introduces New Product Feature

2008-08-20T14:47:00.000-07:00

Burnsville Minn. (PRWEB) August 19, 2008 -- Gerbig Engineering, a designer, fabricator and installer of cleanrooms and cleanroom equipment now has available new feature for the AireCell line of modular cleanrooms. The product is an integrated wall mounted pre-filter. The pre-filter features a perforated aluminum panel, hinged frame and anodized aluminum framing to match the AireCell framing System. The pre-filter is available in efficiencies up to MERV 7.

The wall mounted pre-filter allows users to have much easier access to change the filter. Now cleanroom users don't have to access their ceiling to change filters, thus reducing cleanroom disturbance.

"This product is one of several features that we have introduced recently that significantly enhances the cleanroom functionality and ease of maintenance", said Fred Gerbig, President of Gerbig Engineering. "The industry response to these enhancements has been extremely positive."

Gerbig Engineering is a privately owned company located in Burnsville, MN. The company specializes in designing, fabricating and installing cleanrooms and cleanroom systems for the medical and pharmaceutical industries. This includes hardwall and softwall cleanrooms, modular cleanrooms and cleanroom workstations. For more information, check out their website: www.gerbig.com

Lyriana Announces Antidepressants Now Linked to Declining Libido in Women

2008-08-08T10:32:00.000-07:00

Lyriana, based on new studies, reveals depression medications containing SSRIs can interrupt dopamine levels and other hormonal levels causing a decrease in libido.

St. Charles, IL (PRWEB) July 31, 2008 -- Recent trends of antidepressants being prescribed to women who experience depression and anxiety are at an all time high. In fact, according to a government study, antidepressants have become the most commonly prescribed drug in the United States. Additional new research estimates that up to 70% of women who take antidepressants experience sexual side effects, losing interest in sex or having difficulty reaching orgasm due to decreased vaginal sensitivity and lubrication. In response to the rising amount of women experiencing diminishing libidos, Lyriana (www.lyriana.com), a clinically proven, all natural topical gel designed to enhance sensitivity and promote natural lubrication, recently revealed how antidepressant side effects are linked to women experiencing a loss in their libido.

It's not surprising that depression and anxiety can affect libido, but recent research has shown that some of the most popular treatments for depression and anxiety can have negative effects on sexual function as well. Selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a class of antidepressants used by doctors to treat depression by increasing available serotonin levels. Although they can be very effective for treating depression, SSRIs can cause various symptoms of sexual dysfunction. The most common symptoms of SSRIs have been noted to negatively affect women's libidos and sexual functions. Studies have shown that women taking SSRIs have noticed a decrease in arousal, an increase in dryness and even difficulty reaching orgasm.

Many believe that these sexual side effects are the result of a reduction in dopamine caused by SSRIs. Dopamine plays a critical role in the brain's pleasure and reward system. The chemical provides the brain with positive reinforcement for numerous activities, from enjoying a favorite food to having sex. Most sexual side effects typically diminish or disappear when discontinuing the use of SSRIs, however, this is often impractical since depression and anxiety treatment is usually a long term process.

"Besides directly affecting dopamine levels, hormonal imbalances can be a huge factor affecting a woman's ability to feel desire," states Chris Guill, President of Lyriana (www.lyriana.com). "When hormonal changes occur in a woman's body, no matter what age, studies show it can cause a decrease in estrogen levels causing the vaginal tissues to thin which leads to dryness or irritation."

The factors altering a woman's hormonal balance include physical and psychological factors such as emotions, medications like antidepressants, stress, fatigue and aging. Guill adds, "All of these factors can lead to disruption in the complex relationship between a woman's physical and psychological manifestation of desire."

For some women who are taking antidepressants and experiencing a loss of libido, discontinuing depression medication may not even be an option. However, scientific progress has given more women the ability to enhance their sexual function and pleasure through the use of topical creams. These involve a localized treatment that does not interrupt other ingested medications like antidepressants. One such topical cream is Lyriana, which is designed to not only enhance sexual pleasure, but also to help the body repair the delicate tissues and membranes surrounding the genitalia, alleviating discomfort for females experiencing vaginal dryness. Lyriana is the only worldwide patented formula with the active ingredient, Visnadin (http://www.lyriana.com/about-lyriana/how-lyriana-works/) that promotes blood circulation, sexual stimulation, and natural lubrication of the vaginal wall. Visnadin is a natural product extracted from the Amm Visnaga plant, known to Egyptian medicine as an antispastic and vasodilatory substance.

For more information regarding Lyriana, please visit www.lyriana.com or phone 800-933-3640.

About Lyriana: The female libido enhancing topical gel, called Lyriana, has been clinically tested and evaluated to maximize results in treating the symptoms associated with different forms of female sexual dysfunction or FSD. Lyriana was developed by Indena S.P.A. of Milan, a privately owned Italian company dedicated to the research, development, and production of active ingredients derived from plants for use in pharmaceutical, health, and cosmetic industries. Indena is made up of 700 employees and operates in over 40 countries worldwide. Indena has successfully developed anti-cancer treatments and products to treat dysfunctions of the central nervous system. With over 80 years of expertise in botanical science, Indena has become one of the world's leading companies in the research and production of standardized plant-based extracts and active ingredients. For additional information about Lyriana, antidepressants and diminishing libido levels, or Indena S.A., please visit www.lyriana.com or call 800-933-3640.

David B. Samadi, MD, Demonstrates Robotic Prostate Surgery During Live Webcast, August 13, 2008

2008-08-08T10:25:00.000-07:00

Robotic prostate surgery enables quicker recovery. Join the Mount Sinai Medical Center's leading urology experts to discuss the effectiveness of open, laparoscopic, and robotic prostatectomies. The webcast features case video of live surgeries using the latest da Vinci® prostatectomy techniques. OR-LIVE Webcast Premiere on Wednesday, August 13, 2008 at 5:00 PM ET.

New York, NY (PRWEB) July 31, 2008 -- The Mount Sinai Medical Center and Intuitive Surgical, Inc. will offer a live webcast on OR-Live.com featuring David B. Samadi, M.D., Chief of Robotics and Minimal Invasive Surgery in the Department of Urology at Mount Sinai on August 13, 2008 at 5:00 p.m. EST. Dr. Samadi will explain case video of a robotic radical prostatectomy using the da Vinci S HD Surgical System. He will conduct a live question and answer session with viewers on the effectiveness of open, laparoscopic, and robotic prostate surgeries. Dr. Simon Hall, Chair of the Department of Urology and Director of the Barbara and Maurice A. Deane Prostate Health and Research Center at Mount Sinai will also participate on the panel.

"As a surgeon, robotic surgery enables me to remove the cancerous prostate from patients and help them return to a normal, healthy life," said Dr. Samadi. "Instead of two to three days of hospitalization and two months of recuperation typical with open prostate surgery, robotic surgery patients often go home the next day and resume normal activities within two weeks."

During the webcast, Dr. Samadi will discuss the benefits of a robotic-assisted prostatectomy as compared to open and laparoscopic surgical procedures. Robotic prostate surgery is made possible with highly magnified visual enhancement technology in a bloodless field. This allows for greater precision in cutting and suturing with far less trauma to surrounding tissue, delicate nerve sparing, minimal blood loss, reduced risk of infection, and faster recovery. Patients experience improved clinical outcomes and increased control over their bladders and sexual functions.

Dr. Hall specializes in urologic oncology and open surgical techniques, and collaborates with Dr. Samadi on the treatment of prostate cancer for many of his patients.

"I have seen the number of robotic prostatectomies increase among our patient population over the past couple of years and the benefits are quite clear," shared Dr. Hall. "These surgeries result in fewer immediate complications and quicker recovery than in an open procedure, especially in the hands of a skilled surgeon who performs a high volume of cases routinely."

The Procedure: Dr. Samadi's robotic prostatectomy technique has evolved over the past 8 years -- starting with open surgery, moving to laparoscopy and finally to robotic surgery. Instead of making an 8" to 10" incision to remove a 2" prostate gland, Dr. Samadi's robotic prostatectomy surgery involves just five small "keyhole" incisions in the patient's abdomen, through which extremely fine instruments are inserted along with a miniscule camera that displays magnified two-dimensional images from inside the body onto a screen. The addition of the sophisticated da Vinci system transforms those images into 3D representations, which enables the surgeon's hand movements to be scaled, filtered, and incredibly precise. This eliminates the touch factor or tactile feedback necessary to perform open surgery.

During the webcast, Dr. Samadi will highlight his unique advanced surgical techniques while performing a da Vinci Prostatectomy using the latest technology--the 4-arm da Vinci S Surgical System with high-definition 3D vision. The fourth robotic arm helps the surgeon by providing retraction to increase exposure of structures in the operative field. This arm also facilitates dissection by providing traction at the surgeon's control.

Surgeon Experience: Dr. Samadi is a board-certified urologic surgeon trained in open, laparoscopic, and robotic surgery. He is one of the world's most experienced da Vinci surgeons with a record of high success. Dr. Samadi is one of the only surgeons in the country to have completed two fellowships: one in oncology (trained at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York) and the other in laparoscopy (trained at Henri Mondor Hospital in France).

Dr. Samadi has completed more than 1,350 da Vinci cases in his career and since his arrival at Mount Sinai a year ago, he has performed nearly 550 robotic operations. Dr. Samadi's robotic surgery program at Mount Sinai is unique for its ability to combine the advanced technology of robotics with the expertise of open and laparoscopic skills. For the series of surgeries performed at Mount Sinai, Dr. Samadi's patients experienced an average blood loss of 63cc with a T2 positive margin of 7%. Eighty-five percent of his patients were able to wear one surgical pad or less just three months after surgery. The average length of hospital stay was one day with minimal complications and positive outcomes.

This program is paid for by Intuitive Surgical, manufacturer of the da Vinci S HD Surgical System.

About The Mount Sinai Medical Center: The Mount Sinai Medical Center includes The Mount Sinai Hospital and Mount Sinai School of Medicine. The Mount Sinai Hospital is one of the nation's oldest, largest and most-respected voluntary hospitals. Founded in 1852, Mount Sinai today is a 1,406-bed tertiary-care teaching facility that is internationally acclaimed for excellence in clinical care. Last year, nearly 50,000 people were treated at Mount Sinai as inpatients, and there were nearly 450,000 outpatient visits to the Medical Center. Mount Sinai School of Medicine is internationally recognized as a leader in groundbreaking clinical and basic-science research, as well as having an innovative approach to medical education. With a faculty of more than 3,400 in 38 clinical and basic science departments and centers, Mount Sinai ranks among the top 20 medical schools in receipt of National Institute of Health (NIH) grants. To learn more about Dr. Samadi and the Mount Sinai Medical Center, please visit www.roboticoncology.com or www.mountsinai.org.

About Intuitive Surgical, Inc.: Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (NASDAQ: ISRG), headquartered in Sunnyvale, California, is the global technology leader in the emerging field of robot-assisted, minimally invasive surgery(MIS). Intuitive Surgical develops, manufactures and markets robotic technologies designed to improve clinical outcomes and help patients return more quickly to active and productive lives. The company's mission is to extend the benefits of minimally invasive surgery to the broadest possible base of patients. Intuitive Surgical -- Taking surgical precision beyond the limits of the human hand™

About the da Vinci® Surgical System: The da Vinci Surgical System is a sophisticated robotic platform designed to enable complex surgery using a minimally invasive approach. The da Vinci System consists of an ergonomic surgeon's console, a patient-side cart with four interactive robotic arms, a high-performance vision system and proprietary EndoWrist® instruments. Powered by state-of-the-art robotic technology, the da Vinci System is designed to scale, filter and seamlessly translate the surgeon's hand movements into more precise movements of the EndoWrist instruments. The net result is an intuitive interface with breakthrough surgical capabilities. By providing surgeons with superior visualization, enhanced dexterity, greater precision and ergonomic comfort, the da Vinci Surgical System makes it possible for more surgeons to perform minimally invasive procedures involving complex dissection or reconstruction. This ultimately raises the standard of care for complex surgeries, translating into numerous potential patient benefits, including less pain, a shorter recovery and quicker return to normal daily activities.

The presentation described is for general information only and is not intended to substitute for formal medical training or certification. An independent surgeon, who is not an Intuitive Surgical employee, provides procedure descriptions. Intuitive Surgical trains only on the use of its products and is not responsible for surgical credentialing or for training in surgical procedure or technique. As a result, Intuitive is not responsible for procedural content. While clinical studies support the use of the da Vinci Surgical System as an effective tool for minimally invasive surgery, individual results may vary. For more information, check them out at: http://www.RoboticOncology.com

Intuitive®, da Vinci®, InSite® and EndoWrist® are registered trademarks of Intuitive Surgical, Inc.

Lap-Band "Tell-All" Warns of Patients Becoming Lap-Band "Orphans"

2008-08-08T10:19:00.000-07:00

iVital Ambassador Offers Personal "Before You Decide" Advice on Lap-Band Gastric Banding Procedure--Hundreds of Thousands with 30 or More Pounds to Lose Choose Lap-Band for Permanent Weight Loss and to Ease Weight-Related Symptoms Including Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, Infertility, Fatigue, Breathlessness, Low Self-Esteem, Orthopedic Problems and Sleep Apnea.

Dallas/Ft. Worth, and Plano, TX (PRWEB) August 7, 2008 -- With the latest projections showing obesity quickly closing in on 100% of adult Americans, the Lap-Band® gastric banding procedure is becoming the most popular, safe and effective solution for those suffering from weight-related symptoms and 30 or more pounds of unwanted fat to lose. But be warned! "Isabell," a Lap-Band success story, offers her personal tell-all on how to avoid becoming a Lap-Band "orphan." Read Isabell's entire essay on iVital's site or at LapBandTalk Forum Magazine.

Texas recently has emerged as the hub for weight loss surgery, especially in Dallas, Fort Worth, Frisco and Plano. Leading in unparalleled patient care before, during and well after the outpatient Lap-Band procedure, iVital cautions all prospective patients about making a final decision without all the facts. "Isabell" serves as an enthusiastic ambassador on behalf of iVital. But well before she met iVital, she had been a Lap-Band orphan.

"If you don't know what 'orphaned' is, let me take a second to warn you. Being orphaned in Lap-Band speak means that no one provides proper aftercare, check-ups or fills. I was left all on my own without any support. Orphaned is exactly the right term!" said Isabell, who now serves as an iVital Ambassador. "The worst decision you can make is to pick a place that doesn't offer months of excellent care before and after the surgery. Choosing on price or running off to Mexico is a huge Red Flag that you might end up orphaned. Do all your homework and don't let what happened to me happen to you."

"More than ever, Lap-Band has become the safest, least invasive, most successful option for hundreds of thousands suffering from weight-related ailments and low quality-of-life," said iVital Medical Director Dr. Theresa Garza. "It's crucial to understand all the facts before you make a final Lap-Band decision. Mistakes patients report include misunderstanding the full ramifications of seeking procedures in Mexico, being wrongly pushed toward gastric bypass, procrastinating with fad diets, dealing with insurance delays and unexpected denials, choosing the cheapest option rather than a center known for its patient care, and failing to request payment plan options."

iVital believes patients who've "done their homework" will have the greatest Lap-Band success rates for permanent weight loss and reversal of diabetes, insulin resistance or high blood sugar. In that spirit, iVital offers information-packed, Permanent Weight Loss Seminars at Willow Bend Wellness Center on Monday at Noon and Thursday evening at 6:30 p.m. Spouses/Friends are welcome and encouraged. To best accommodate and serve guests, iVital requires advance reservations. Seminar reservations are made online at www.iVital.com or by calling 214-347-4434.

iVital Permanent Weight Loss Seminars--What to Expect:
•Meet iVital's Medical Staff and Dedicated Team
•Talk to Local Weight Loss Successes--They Know Exactly What You're Going Through!
•Learn the Biggest Mistakes to Avoid and the Secrets to a Successful Lap-Band Procedure and Permanent Weight Loss.
•Your Most Vital Questions Answered: Lap-Band, Gastric Bypass, Bariatric Surgery Statistics, Mexico Surgeries, Insurance, Diets, Weight-Related Symptoms, Which Weight Loss Solution is Best for Me?
•Plus, Qualify for a Personal, Discreet and Complimentary "iVital Diagnostic Evaluation" Based on You! Free, Limited Time Offer. (a $400 Value)

A recent poll of Lap-Band recipients revealed that 83% said having the Lap-Band procedure "was the best thing I've ever done for myself." Many had the procedure so recently, they still were making up their minds. Fewer than 3% regretted their decision.

The ideal Lap-Band candidate who is most likely to succeed in losing excess weight for good has 30 or more pounds to lose and may be suffering weight-related symptoms including diabetes, high blood sugar, infertility, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, hypertension, breathlessness, orthopedic problems, sore feet, aching back, weak knees, sleep apnea, gout, low energy, fatigue, diminished self-esteem and stubborn excess weight. (As reported in the Annals of Internal Medicine: With integrated patient care, 98% of Lap-Band® patients studied lost 87% of their excess weight--and kept it off.)

About iVital Weight Loss, Life & You!: Inspired by our passion to improve lives' we are committed to partnering with each patient to achieve sustained weight loss through personalized' superior care. iVital is dedicated to helping individuals lose their excess weight and keep it off with customized solutions built around the Lap-Band®. iVital has tailored this procedure and a continuum of customer-centric aftercare for the millions of Americans who want to improve their health and look and feel their best -- for life. www.ivital.com

Hope Is In Sight For The Millions Of People Who Suffer From Back Pain

2008-07-31T07:02:00.000-07:00

The Stretching Institute and The Healthy Back Institute have joined together to create solutions for the back pain problems that plague people all over the country every day.

Gaithersburg, MD (PRWEB) July 30, 2008 -- The Stretching Institute and The Healthy Back Institute have joined together to create solutions for the back pain problems that plague people all over the country every day.

Originally created to provide scientific and medically proven products and services to athletes suffering from sports injuries, The Stretching Institute has become an industry front-runner in the field of stretching and flexibility for athletes and non-athletes alike. Their original website, TheStretchingHandbook.com, receives over a million visitors a year and has been helping people in pain since 1995.

Brad Walker, founder of The Stretching Institute (http://www.TheStretchingInstitute.com), is excited with the potential their unique partnership has for helping back pain sufferers around the world. "The Stretching Institute has been helping sports injury sufferers use stretching techniques to improve their flexibility and return to health in record speeds, but athletes aren't the only ones who suffer debilitating problems because of their back pain. In getting together with The Healthy Back Institute, we'll reach a much wider audience and eliminate the pain of so many more people."

When The Stretching Institute was created, stretching and flexibility got nothing more than a cursory mention in most health and fitness publications. Even the most scientific publications and journals were tacking stretching on as an afterthought. Walker is proud to be a part of a growing movement of health care practitioners who are taking a fully holistic view of flexibility management.

As the other member of the partnership, The Healthy Back Institute was founded in 2001 by fitness and rehabilitation expert Jesse Cannone and massage therapist Steve Hefferon. They created the Lose the Back Pain system; a self-assessment and self-treatment program for sciatica and back pain sufferers. With the help of some of the world's leading doctors, physical therapists and chiropractors, the individually targeted system has been sold in more than 85 countries.

Both Cannone and Hefferon are experts in the field of post-rehabilitation and bring a well-rounded combination of skills to the new team. Walker says that lifestyle management is about to get much better for back pain sufferers.

Ordinarily, back pain sufferers need either a lot of money or a lot of time to get appropriate treatment for their injuries. Wait times for specialists can be painfully long, and even the assessment process is prohibitively expensive. Both The Stretching Institute and The Healthy Back Institute are known worldwide for creating products that allow patients to self-assess and self-treat, putting pain relief in the hands of the sufferers, not the often inaccessible health care providers.

"If you don't have back pain or sciatica, you don't realize the impact it can have. People with back pain can't play ball with their kids, they can't take their dog for a walk -- sometimes they can't even drive. Relieving their pain will improve the productivity and quality of life for literally millions of people. We're so proud to be a part of this for people."

Bruker BioSpin's MRI CryoProbe at 60 Micrometer Spatial Resolution

2008-07-24T08:49:00.000-07:00

A prestigious 2008 R&D 100 Award has been given to Bruker BioSpin for the MRI CryoProbe™, as one of the 100 most technologically significant products introduced into the marketplace over the past year. Together with the 1.7 mm NMR MicroCryoProbe, this results in two magnetic resonance innovations from Bruker BioSpin being selected by the independent judging panel and editors of R&D Magazine in 2008.

BILLERICA, Mass. (Business Wire EON) July 23, 2008 -- The Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) CryoProbe™ delivers an increase in sensitivity of approximately a factor of 2.5x in small animal in vivo MRI. This enables very high 3D isotropic spatial resolution down to 60 µm, or alternatively an increase in acquisition speed by more than a factor of 5x compared to conventional room temperature MRI RF coils. In combination with high magnetic fields, the MRI CryoProbe enables new pre-clinical neuroscience studies with functional MRI (fMRI).

Bruker BioSpin's MRI CryoProbe technology uses cryogenic RF-coils and preamplifiers cooled by a closed-cycle helium gas refrigeration system. Bruker BioSpin is the pioneer in the development of cryogenic probes for high-resolution NMR. Over 650 Bruker NMR CryoProbes have been installed at customers worldwide so far. The new MRI CryoProbe is available for in vivo animal MRI at various field strengths for BioSpec®, PharmaScan® and ClinScan® MRI scanners.

Comprehensive animal studies using the MRI CryoProbe were performed at the ETH in Zuerich, Switzerland, where it is routinely used for clinical neuroscience research on mice. Professor Markus Rudin, Director of the MRI and Optical Imaging Section of the Animal Imaging Center, ETH Zuerich, commented: "This novel MRI CryoProbe technology has proven to provide a strong and impressive increase in sensitivity. It will greatly enhance the potential of MRI in small animals for clinical and pharmaceutical research."

ABOUT BRUKER BIOSPIN: For more information about Bruker BioSpin and Bruker Corporation (NASDAQ: BRKR), please visit www.bruker-biospin.com and www.bruker.com.

Synergy Broadcast Systems Announces Enhancements to MMDS Patient Education System

2008-07-18T10:25:00.000-07:00

MMDS or Medical Media Delivery System is a Patient Education System that provides hospitals, medical centers and clinics with a cost effective Video On Demand solution that is accessible using a telephone, pillow speaker, interactive touch screen or computer.

Dallas, TX (PRWEB) July 18, 2008 -- Synergy Broadcast Systems recently launched several new interface options to it's popular MMDS Patient Education System MMDS was introduced in 1991 and was the first true video on demand system designed for the healthcare environment. Originally a robotics-based system, it was re-designed as an MPEG2 digital solution in 1998. MMDS has been providing patient education and staff development solutions to hospitals and medical centers for over 18 years. Designed as a turnkey solution, MMDS helps hospitals deliver and better manage patient education to meet the needs of a diverse patient population and also fulfill Joint Commission requirements for patient education and documentation.

MMDS is a cost-effective, multi-channel solution that provides hospitals with a low-cost solution for Video On Demand by utilizing the hospital's existing televisions, cabling system, phone and LAN. This approach saves significant capital versus wiring for a specialized system. In addition to patient education, the system can also be used for staff development, in-service training and mandatory education. It can also be expanded to provide sophisticated welcome and information channels and digital signage to expand communication beyond the patient room into staff areas and the general population or common areas such as waiting rooms, food service areas and entry ways.

"We recently completed work on a new Touch Screen and Pillow Speaker application for our customers that are ready to begin the migration to digital television," according to Chuck Jones, Executive Vice President. "The Touch Screen is perfect for applications where a personal TV is more appropriate than a wall-mounted television such as dialysis and cancer clinics and hospitals that use small personal TV's that you find mounted on swing-arms next to the patient's bed." In addition to TV, the Touch Screen application also provides access to Video On Demand movies and education, Survey and Testing, Music, Hospital Services and Internet Access with a "user-friendly" touch screen keyboard built into the application. Hospital staff can also access the system from their desktop computers for in-service education and mandatory training programs.

Peter Kiddy, Synergy Broadcast Systems President points out that "the Touch Screen solution has transformed the patient's experience in "chair-bound" treatment centers by providing patients with finger-tip access to TV, the Internet and healthcare related education. Patients can browse the Internet, work, shop, or watch their favorite program thus making a physical limitation of their treatment much easier to manage." The Pillow Speaker interface is combined with a wireless keyboard to enhance the hospital experience for footwall mounted televisions. It gives the patient an experience much more like their home environment with cable television and Internet access.

MMDS is available in configurations to meet the needs of any size medical facility or group from clinics spread across town, surgery centers, or hospitals and medical centers from 50 to over 1,000 beds. The system's report documentation assists facilities in meeting Joint Commission standards for patient education and compliance with both paper-based and HL7 interfaces to Medical Records. In addition to the Touch Screen and Pillow Speaker interface a phone-based interface is still available and very cost-effective for hospitals with analog TV's.

For additional information about MMDS and how healthcare facilities can benefit from video on demand for patient education please contact Synergy Broadcast Systems at 800-601-6991.

About Synergy Broadcast Systems: Synergy Broadcast Systems, located in Addison, TX, provides video automation solutions for broadcast, education, business, government and healthcare organizations. SBS solutions are modular, flexible and economically scalable to fit the needs of each facility and provide a migration path for future growth and technology changes. The Company's solutions include television automation, video on demand, digital signage and video delivery and distribution to remote locations. For additional information contact Synergy Broadcast Systems at 800-601-6991 or visit their web site at www.synergybroadcast.com.

Ecumen Provides Presidential Candidates 10 Top Reasons to Discuss Long-Term Care Reform

2008-07-16T08:39:00.000-07:00

Senior housing provider Ecumen highlights reasons for financing reforms necessary in the American age wave.

Shoreview, MN (PRWEB) July 16, 2008 -- Aging services provider Ecumen, one of the country's largest non-profit senior housing companies, finds it unfathomable that long-term care reform isn't being discussed by Presidential candidates Sen. Barack Obama and Sen. John McCain.

"10 Reasons Long Term Care Financing Needs to Be Reformed in America," a recent post to Ecumen's Changing Aging blog gives both candidates 10 reasons to discuss long-term care financing. The blog also outlines a financing plan put forth by the American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (AAHSA), which would provide an annual cash benefit of $27,000 for less than a cup of coffee per day. Also posted are reform ideas by AARP.

"If we're going to have a truly coordinated health care system in America, that promotes wellness from cradle to grave, then long-term care financing reform must be part of American innovation," says Kathryn Roberts, a baby boomer and president and CEO of Ecumen. "This is a health care issue, a fiscal issue, a life quality issue, a personal responsibility issue, a business issue, and it impacts every single American - we're all aging."

"The issue of such care is perfect for both candidates who want to bring change to America," said Roberts. "The age wave represents millions of people who want to age in place and want services that are not institutional. To meet that huge desire for change and new choices, we have to also transform how we pay for people's desire for independence."

About 10 million Americans need long-term care today, while 12 million will need it by 2020. Long-term includes an array of services and supports people need when they can no longer care for themselves. Medicaid pays for 42 percent of all long-term care expenditures. According to the Kaiser Commission on Medicaid and the Uninsured, this costs federal and state governments $116.8 billion every year. And according to a new AARP report, most states allocate a greater percentage of their Medicaid dollars to institutional care rather than home and community-based services. Combined with Americans deplorable savings history, many Americans are at risk of not producing enough income to cover basic expenditures related to aging services.

And therein is tremendous opportunity for McCain and Obama. According to the Long-Term Care National Survey conducted by the bi-partisan polling team of The Mellman Group and Public Opinion Strategies, 8 in 10 voters state that presidential candidates should make long term care an integral part of their health care proposals.

Readers are invited to share additional reasons for long term care (http://www.ecumen.org/changing-aging/category/long-term-care-financing/) financing reform, and to discover more thoughts and opinions on this subject, at Ecumen's Changing Aging blog.

About Ecumen: Ecumen (www.ecumen.org) is based in Shoreview, Minn., and is one of the largest non-profit senior housing, services and development companies in the United States. The name Ecumen comes from the word ecumenical, which in turn is derived from the Greek word for home: "Oikos". Ecumen's mission is to create "home" for older adults wherever they choose to live. Ecumen is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and has 4,000 team members. Ecumen writes about news and ideas that are shaping the future of aging services at its Changing Aging blog: www.ecumen.org changing-aging/.

Herbal Immunotherapy for Multi-Drug and Extensively Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis as well as TB with HIV

2008-07-15T10:57:00.000-07:00

Ukrainian company, Ekomed LLC, published clinical study of phytoconcentrates Dzherelo (Immunoxel), Lizorm and Svitanok used as an adjunct immunotherapy against multi-drug (MDR-TB), (XDR-TB), and in patients with concomitant HIV and Mycobacterium tuberculosis infections.

Kiev, Ukraine (PRWEB) July 11, 2008 -- Ukrainian company, Ekomed LLC, published clinical study of phytoconcentrates Dzherelo (Immunoxel), Lizorm and Svitanok used as an adjunct immunotherapy against multi-drug (MDR-TB), (XDR-TB), and in patients with concomitant HIV and Mycobacterium tuberculosis infections.

The study appeared in the current issue of International Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences (Vol. 2; Pages 59-64, 2008). Abstract of the paper can be found online at: http://www.globalsciencebooks.info/JournalsSup/08IJBPS_2_1.html

Open-label, salvage anti-tuberculosis therapy (ATT) combined with Dzherelo (Immunoxel), Svitanok, and Lizorm- over-the-counter immunomodulators from medicinal plants - was conducted in 20 Ukrainian patients with late-stage pulmonary TB. In this study seven patients had XDR-TB and the remaining had MDR-TB. Among latter two patients had HIV co-infection but five other AIDS patients had drug-sensitive TB. Patients hospitalized in the TB dispensary were treated under directly observed therapy (DOT) until repeated negative culture conversion and recuperation from radiological and clinical symptoms. The average duration of therapy was 16.2 ± 5.2 weeks (range 10.6-30.3; median 16). The mean time to bacterial clearance was 4.4 ± 1.8 weeks (range 1.3-8.9, median 4.3). All patients (95%), except one, gained weight, ranging between 3-17 kg with average 8.7 kg (P=0.000009). The liver function tests revealed that the level of total bilirubin had improved from 15.5 to 11.6 ¼mol/L (P=0.009). Alanine transaminase (ALT) came down to normal from 53.1 IU/L to 30.4 IU/L level (P=0.001). Hemoglobin levels increased from 103.2 to 117.3 g/L (P=0.00005). Inflammation-associated, elevated leukocyte counts returned back to normal from 8.9 to 6.9 × 109 cells/L (P=0.003). CD4 T lymphocyte counts in HIV patients have increased from average 371 cells at baseline to 566 cells - an increase equal to 52% (P=0.07). The absolute numbers of CD8+ T-lymphocytes appeared to decline but no statistical significance has been reached (P=0.1). The increase in CD4 cells and decline in CD8 cells resulted in almost doubled ratio of CD4/CD8 cells, i.e., from baseline 0.475 to 0.848 at the end of therapy (P=0.03). Patients recovered clinically and radiologically and were hence discharged from the hospital after 4 months on average.

These findings support prior trials indicating clinical benefit of adding immunomodulators to TB treatment regimens. The combination of ATT with botanical preparations enhances the clinical efficacy of DOT and is safe and beneficial even to patients with poor prognosis due to drug resistance and/or co-infection with HIV. This unique combination results in significantly shortened duration of treatment and is more cost-effective than ATT alone.

Dzherelo, Lizorm and Svitanok are extracts from plants grown in Ukraine that have been used as food or folk medicine since time immemorial. Being derived from botanical sources and with established record of safety they have been approved by the Ministry of Health of Ukraine in 1997 as dietary supplements and as a functional food in 2006.

Over 9 million new cases of TB occur each year worldwide. In the United States alone, it is estimated that 10-15 million people are infected with the TB bacteria and 22,000 new cases occur each year. Tuberculosis is spread from person to person by breathing infected air during close contact. Thus, anyone can get TB.

Despite the overwhelming burden of TB, no new compounds were developed in last 40 years and current strains of TB are becoming resistant to existing drugs. Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) refers to organisms that are resistant to at least two of the first-line drugs, Izoniazid and Rifampicin. More recently, extensively (extremely) drug resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB) has emerged which is resistant to three or more of the second-line treatment drugs. This emerging form of TB caused worldwide concern after recently reported outbreak in Kwazulu Natal province of South Africa where 52 of 53 patients with XDR-TB and HIV had died within 2 weeks from the time of diagnosis. Largely, because of HIV, a tremendous increase in the incidence of TB is seen today and when these two infections are presented in tandem they are more deadly than each one of them alone.

Scientific Director of Ekomed, Mr. Volodymyr Pylypchuk, commented: "Dzherelo and our other botanicals can be useful as immune adjuvants for therapy of tuberculosis and AIDS. What is important is that our study is the first ever study to show that one can treat successfully XDR TB - a condition which is commonly considered to be virtually incurable. In addition to medical problems Ekomed works on ecology projects. We have developed proprietary technologies that can potentially reverse global climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, such as carbon dioxide, in ecologically friendly manner".

About Ekomed LLC: Founded in 1996, Ekomed is a privately-held company based in Kiev, Ukraine. The company is the leading ethnobotanical company that manufactures over 26 different multiherbal preparations for a variety of health disorders. For more details, please visit the company website at www.ekomed.com.ua

Developer of Mobile Hospital Computing Equipment and Medical Carts Helps Hospital Upgrade to Wireless

2008-07-15T10:52:00.000-07:00

Leading hospital mobile computing solutions provider recognized by one of the most "wired" hospitals in the U.S.

Columbus, OH (PRWEB) July 14, 2008 -- Artromick provides accurate and efficient medication management solutions with the latest mobile hospital computing and medical cart equipment. In today's demanding world of health care, hospitals, like Camden-Clark Memorial Hospital, have found a capable partner in Artromick.

The 375-bed facility in Parkersburg, WV took a monumental step forward several months ago when it contracted with Artromick, a nationally recognized manufacturer of medication carts, mobile hospital computing solutions carts and medical carts.

CCMH, which is recognized as one of the top 100 "most wired" hospitals in the U.S., as well as one of the top 25 "most wireless" hospitals in the nation, had begun using mobile hospital computing carts about six years ago.

Recently, Artromick was chosen by CCMH officials to replace its aged hospital equipment, which was bulky, cumbersome and simply out-of-date. Their healthcare technology has enabled CCMH to use mobile hospital computing carts at the bedside, which provide additional area for charting that is decentralized from the nursing station and the capability of readily accessible information in a timely manner - benefits recognized by CCMH officials.

"It improves efficiency by allowing one-time documentation at bedside rather than once at bedside than again at the nursing station," CCMH nursing informatics analyst Kerry Cottrell emphasized.

Artromick's technology, she added, is a time saver for CCMH nurses, allowing them to quickly access information over the wireless network without having to save their charting until a computer is available at a nursing station.

Cottrell also said the Artromick mobile computing medical carts are ergonomically efficient and adjustable, easy to move and control, and have a better, more easily rechargeable battery life than those of previous carts used at the West Virginia hospital.

Since 1972, Artromick has provided innovative medication handling systems to hospitals and long-term care facilities, all aimed at improving nurse efficiency, ensuring medication compliance and improving patient safety.

Today, Artromick continues to develop evolutionary mobile computing solutions forge the future of point-of-care data management. With the strategic guidance and capital support of Sterling Partners, Artromick is pursuing an aggressive product development schedule to redefine mobile computing within hospitals and extended care facilities.

The goal of this product development initiative is to create new opportunities for improved patient care through the advancement of nursing workflow efficiency and reliable share information management.

About Artromick International, Inc.: Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, Artromick develops and markets a comprehensive line of mobile computing carts, medication control systems and healthcare technology solutions for long-term and acute care providers worldwide. For more information, please contact Artromick at (800) 848-6462 or visit http://www.artromick.com/

About Camden-Clark Memorial Hospital: Based in Parkersburg, WV, Camden-Clark Memorial Hospital is a 375-bed facility that has been recognized as a leader in both wireless and wired hospital technology. For more information, please contact CCMH at (304) 424-2296 or visit http://ccmh.org/

Axia3 Heartburn Extinguisher® Introduces Patented Digestive Enzymes to Fight Heartburn

2008-07-08T12:18:00.000-07:00

Axia3 Heartburn Extinguisher®, the fast acting, all natural treatment for heartburn, proudly announces its inclusion of patented, time-released digestive enzymes to fight stomach upset. This Heartburn Extinguisher contains a month's supply of 30 tablets and retails for $9.99 at Whole Foods locations in Southern California and nationally through GNC and Vitamin World.

Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) July 3, 2008 -- Axia3 Heartburn Extinguisher®, the fast acting, all natural treatment for heartburn, proudly announces its inclusion of patented, time-released digestive enzymes to fight stomach upset. This Heartburn Extinguisher contains a month's supply of 30 tablets and retails for $9.99 at Whole Foods locations in Southern California and nationally through GNC and Vitamin World.

"Axia3 Heartburn Extinguisher® is a highly effective and affordable remedy against heartburn and acid indigestion because of our innovative approach to good health. By including a patented brand of digestive enzymes, which is the result of extensive research and clinical testing, we successfully target the principal culprits responsible for chronic heartburn and sour stomach," said Ryan Doheny, Cofounder of Axia3 Heartburn Extinguisher®. "No other product has this formula, which reflects my own commitment to properly addressing the cause of this medical problem. As a longtime sufferer of heartburn, I personally endorse the way Axia3 Heartburn Extinguisher® provides sustained relief for this issue and other similar challenges."

The All Natural Advantage: The overwhelming number of antacids, unlike Axia3 Heartburn Extinguisher®, contain controversial ingredients. In fact, according to leading universities some of these products can also create a more serious threat, such as osteoporosis, renal failure, gastric cancer and pneumonia when used in extended periods of time without a diagnosis.

"People need to take charge of their health and the remedies they consume. Axia3 Heartburn Extinguisher® is a major step in that direction," declared Doheny.

About Axia3 Heartburn Extinguisher®: Headquartered in Los Angeles, Axia3 Heartburn Extinguisher® is an all natural treatment for chronic heartburn. The brand is an economical and medically popular solution for people who suffer some form of indigestion or stomach upset. For more information check out there website at: http://www.axia3.com/.

PICC Line Nursing and Ithaca Sports Partner to Aid in Reduction of PICC Line Infections

2008-07-01T08:55:00.000-07:00

Infection from a wet PICC line dressing is the most common complication when used in the home setting. Normally occurring during bathing, this risk can now be avoided with a waterproof Dry Pro PICC Protector and is highly recommended by PICC Line Nursing and Ithaca Sports.

New York, NY (PRWEB) June 30, 2008 -- Infection from wet dressings, the leading complication when PICC lines are used in the home to administer medication, can now be greatly reduced. The most common infection source is from water getting under the dressing when bathing at home. PICC Line Nursing and Ithaca Sports support using the waterproof Dry Pro PICC Protector to prevent this. This device is specifically designed to cover the PICC line to prevent water from coming into contact with the dressing and this directly decreases infection risk.

PICC lines are Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters and are a special type of IV. Doctors order these IV lines for patients needing long term intravenous access for a variety of reasons, such as antibiotics therapy. One major benefit of them is that patients do not have to stay in hospitals for their treatment and can return home and work allowing for a more normal lifestyle.

However, it is essential that patients keep the dressing dry while bathing or showering. Studies indicate that wet dressings are the most common source of infection for patients at home with PICC lines. Water under the dressing, combined with body heat, provides a perfect setting for bacteria to grow leading to infection. As most people have PICC lines to treat infection, adding a second could be very hazardest leading to additional hospitalization and extended treatment of intravenous antibiotics.

Health care professionals, such as PICC Line Nursing, stress the importance of maintaining a clean and dry dressing which covers the insertion site of the PICC line to their patients, as well as the consequences when it gets moist or wet. Home health nurses are very creative in their attempts to cover the PICC dressings to allow their patients to bathe and shower freely. But it often doesn't work! The Dry Pro PICC Protector is a solution to this problem and PICC Line Nursing and Ithaca Sports are proud to support its use. It provides a water tight seal that not only allows patients to bathe but also swim and participate in water sports when that wasn't an option previously.

The Dry Pro PICC Protector was created by Dr. Roy Archambault DPM. Once the protector sleeve is placed over the PICC Line, a unique vacuum design seals the ends creating waterproof protection. The PICC Line dressing remains dry even during bathing, showering and swimming. The Dry Pro PICC Protector is individually sized and trimmed to fit the arm providing a perfect fit. For more information and to purchase your PICC Protector visit www.picclinenursing.com

About PICC Line Nursing: Vascular Access Management specializes in all aspects of Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters in and around Orange County, New York. Expertise includes PICC Line nursing programs, Insertion, education and consulting. For services, information concerning PICC lines or to purchase a Dry Pro Protector, visit their website at http://PICClinenursing.com/.

The Benefits of Online Education: JustColleges Helps in Launching Your Career with an Online Degree

2008-06-30T13:20:00.000-07:00

Online degree programs have brought education closer to the masses. JustColleges highlights the purpose and benefits of this increasingly popular mode of education.

Denver, CO (PRWEB) June 30, 2008 -- Online degree programs have brought education closer to the masses. JustColleges highlights the purpose and benefits of this increasingly popular mode of education.

'The world is flat' is what Thomas Friedman said in his book that accounts for the dramatic changes that technology and communications have shrunk distances and boundaries. Juxtaposing this title in the context of a traditional classroom learning, we need to ask-- is this exploiting the true potential of Distance Learning?

There are many synonyms used in describing distance learning: Distance Education, Distributed Learning, Remote Learning, Online Learning, Online Education, Offline Learning or Virtual Classroom Teaching.

Irrespective of how you define or manage this mode of learning, the benefits are immense. Education is universally a fundamental right and has been rightfully enshrined in our constitution. If this has to happen then education and the learning process must be convenient, flexible, effective, efficient, contemporary and affordable. A distance-learning mode encompasses all these measures of performance.

At your convenience: Online Education, with or without technology, can provide convenient locations for both students and instructors. Technology today, such as the Internet, video, and telephone, is easily accessed at home and in rural community centers. Others, such as desktop videoconferencing, can be distributed from a focal point (such as a university or a college) to multiple remote sites (such as schools and community centers). Satellite transmissions can be viewed at specified sites, or the transmissions can be videotaped for later viewing at home or school.

It's flexible: The various forms of online education provide students the option to participate whenever it is convenient, on an individual basis. Some students may want to review videos or a print material on a weekend or read their e-mail during early morning hours. In addition, a student may wish to spend 30 minutes reviewing a website, while another spends an hour. Flexibility of the day and the time is available.

Multi-sensory: One of the benefits of online education is that there are a wide variety of materials that can meet everyone's learning preference - at least part of the time. For instance, some students learn from visual stimuli, such as video, and others learn best by listening or interacting with a computer program. If distance-learning programs are well designed, they provide learners a wide range of choices, imparting an optimal combination of interaction and media.

It is definitely interactive: Contrary to popular opinion, online degree programs can offer increased interactions with students. In particular, introvert students who are too shy to ask questions in class will often 'open up' when provided the opportunity to interact via e-mail or other individualized means.

Breadth and depth: Over the years online colleges have evolved and now offer programs that most traditional colleges do. This has helped in reducing the gap between campus based and online colleges thus providing students with an alternative. Students can now earn:

They are also no longer restricted to a handful of subjects; online colleges now offer degrees in subjects like:

The contemporary feel: The world is becoming flatter by the day. Technology has shrunk distances that enable students to access knowledge from anywhere around the world. This mode not only enhances accessibility, but this ensures deliverables become more contemporary. Educational inequity is a major issue world over. Rural schools often have less access to contemporary educational trends, fewer qualified teachers, and more need for technology. Online education offers great potential for alleviating these issues and we should not try to distance ourselves from this mode of learning.

A focused directory: In order to assist prospective students in their endeavor JustColleges has built a complete directory of online degree programs which lists various online accredited colleges. Students can take advantage of this vast content which will not only help them in their search for the right program but will also connect them to the college directly.

About JustColleges: An interactive guide for individuals who wish to pursue their higher studies. The portal consists of a listing of over 10,000 colleges and universities worldwide, articles, essays, FAQs and tips on how to get into the right college. Using JustColleges students can extensively research colleges and universities, prepare for admissions tests, manage the college and grad school application process, learn about college majors and their associated careers, and navigate the financial aid process. JustColleges lists over 500 distance and online degree and certificate programs and more than 3,000 courses in over 100 subject areas, as well as a directory of over 5,000 campus-based institutions. For colleges and universities, JustColleges offers a low-cost, high quality method to increase enrollment and exposure to their learning programs. For more information on JustColleges visit http://www.justcolleges.com .

JCR Partners with MC Strategies to Distribute Online Education Courses

2008-06-26T08:15:00.000-07:00

Joint Commission Resources (JCR) and MC Strategies are partnering to offer selected education courses online, further expanding the online learning options for their clients - busy healthcare professionals needing to fulfill their continuing education requirements. JCR is a not-for-profit affiliate of The Joint Commission. MC Strategies, an Elsevier company, is a leader in e-learning solutions for healthcare professionals.

Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) June 26, 2008 -- Joint Commission Resources (JCR) and MC Strategies are partnering to offer selected education courses online, further expanding the online learning options for their clients - busy healthcare professionals needing to fulfill their continuing education requirements. JCR is a not-for-profit affiliate of The Joint Commission. MC Strategies, an Elsevier company, is a leader in e-learning solutions for healthcare professionals.

These online courses delivered through MC Strategies' learning management system (LMS) are available for licensing as a series of courses and are included in the MC Strategies course library utilized by more than 1,500 healthcare organizations.

The easy-to-use course design features both audio and video-formats. It gives participants the opportunity to control the pace at which they learn by allowing them to log on to their computer and complete the work when it's most convenient. For courses offering continuing education credit, participants instantly receive their credits after successful completion of the course. Additionally, the LMS maintains a record for six years of each course completed by participants and the continuing education credits earned.

"This partnership makes learning with JCR convenient by providing another way for us to reach our busy customers," says Charles Macfarlane, F.A.C.H.E., C.A.E., vice president for Learning, JCR. "We are eager to launch the new program and will be adding additional courses to the library in the next few months."

"We partnered with JCR to distribute their courses in order to meet our current and new customers' need for information about The Joint Commission's standards and processes," says Barbara Nelson Cullen, vice president, Healthcare e-Learning, MC Strategies. "What makes our program unique is that we offer this bundle of lessons that is readily available to meet the needs of healthcare professionals who must fit professional development into their busy work schedules."

Current course offerings include:

Who's on Your Staff? Credentialing and Privileging: The Fundamentals*
Turning Data into Useful Information*
Environment of Care: Fire Safety
Accreditation Update: S3
Environment of Care: Utilities and Clinical Engineering
Challenging Standards in Hospital Accreditation
It's a Long Way Down: Reducing the Risk of Patient Falls*
Patient Safety on the Line: Using Technology to Aid Effective Communication Among Caregivers*
Continuing education credits offered.

For more information about these courses please call, 800.999.6274 or visit www.mcstrategies.com.

Joint Commission Resources, Inc. (JCR), a not-for-profit affiliate of The Joint Commission, has been designated by The Joint Commission to publish publications and multimedia products. JCR reproduces and distributes these materials under license from The Joint Commission. JCR educational programs and publications support the accreditation activities of The Joint Commission, but are separate functions. Attendees at JCR educational programs and purchasers of JCR publications receive no special consideration or treatment in, or confidential information about, the accreditation process. Learn more about Joint Commission Resources at www.jcrinc.com.

Headquartered in Atlanta, GA, MC Strategies has been providing web-based training and education products and services to the healthcare industry since 1986. The company is a pioneer in providing e-learning solutions and serves a client base of over 1,300 healthcare organizations nationwide, including integrated health delivery networks, hospitals, academic institutions and the federal government. We offer a wide range of courses to help nurses meet their clinical and professional education needs and as part of Elsevier Health Sciences, home to some of the world's premier names in healthcare publishing such as Mosby and Saunders, our library continues to grow. For more information, please visit the MC Strategies website (www.mcstrategies.com) or call 800-999-6274.

Elsevier is a world-leading publisher of scientific, technical and medical information products and services. Working in partnership with the global science and health communities, Elsevier's 7,000 employees in over 70 offices worldwide publish more than 2,000 journals and 1,900 new books per year, in addition to offering a suite of innovative electronic products, such as ScienceDirect (www.sciencedirect.com), MD Consult (www.mdconsult.com), Scopus (www.info.scopus.com), bibliographic databases, and online reference works.

Elsevier (www.elsevier.com) is a global business headquartered in Amsterdam, The Netherlands and has offices worldwide. Elsevier is part of Reed Elsevier Group plc (www.reedelsevier.com), a world-leading publisher and information provider. Operating in the science and medical, legal, education and business-to-business sectors, Reed Elsevier provides high-quality and flexible information solutions to users, with increasing emphasis on the Internet as a means of delivery. Reed Elsevier's ticker symbols are REN (Euronext Amsterdam), REL (London Stock Exchange), RUK and ENL (New York Stock Exchange).

California Drug Rehab Program Launches New Life Skills Classes to Young Adults as Substance Abuse Treatment

2008-06-25T14:15:00.001-07:00

Sober College, an addiction treatment center in Woodland Hills, CA, provides a comprehensive drug rehab program for young adults ages 17-26 in search of substance abuse treatment and a supportive, sober environment. The college is launching new life skills classes as substance abuse treatment for young adults. Sober College gives students the option to continue with academics and the development of life skills while they complete a comprehensive drug rehab program. Students of Sober College can finish high school, get their GEDs, take college classes, and even pursue a vocation while working towards recovery.

Woodland Hills, CA (PRWEB) June 25, 2008 -- Sober College, an addiction treatment center in Woodland Hills, CA, provides a comprehensive drug rehab program for young adults ages 17-26 in search of substance abuse treatment and a supportive, sober environment. Sober College gives students the option to continue with academics and the development of life skills while they complete a comprehensive drug rehab program. Students of Sober College can finish high school, get their GEDs, take college classes, and even pursue a vocation while working towards recovery.

The College's curriculum is designed to build competencies in sobriety, productivity, life skills, physical fitness, and emotional intelligence. One of the biggest causes of a drug or alcohol relapse after completion of rehab is the shock and difficulty of returning to sober society. The Sober College curriculum works to facilitate the return to everyday life by continuing with normal activities as much as possible alongside substance abuse treatment. While achievement in all of the core competencies gives the student the best opportunity for long term success, sobriety is always the first priority.

Sober College operates under the philosophy that long term treatment might be necessary for the young adult in need of rehab and who may be struggling to succeed in high school or college. If extended recovery time is needed, students don't have to interrupt their lives by missing out on classes or work. Candidates for the drug rehab center include young adults who have drug and alcohol issues, need or have completed primary substance abuse treatment, have struggled to finish school, have attended boarding school or wilderness programs, and who have dual diagnoses.

Students who enroll at Sober College must stay at the drug rehab center for a minimum of three months, and may remain for a maximum of twelve, depending on their needs. The students reside in sober living environments near the state-of-the-art learning center, where counseling, academics and vocational support are available. Clinical, psychiatric and therapeutic resources are also readily available to the students. They can participate in weekly one-on-one therapy sessions; therapeutic process groups that do activities like surfing, trapeze, and wind-tunnel; and specialized therapies tailored to the needs of the individual.

The concept of Sober College is comprised of three ideas: substance abuse treatment for young adults is much more effective when they're surrounded by their peers; young adults will respond positively if they're in the right environment; and the longer a young person can remain in a drug rehab program, the better their chances for long term recovery. Sober College was founded on extensive research, many discussions with experts, and most importantly, the experiences of young adults coming out of an addiction treatment center and struggling to make it in the real world. Sober College staff assist students in getting gently back on their feet, fully equipped with the arsenal of skills they will need not only to succeed in sobriety, but to thrive in their life's pursuits.

What makes Sober College a different type of drug rehab center is the fact that it addresses challenges that are often overlooked by traditional programs. Newly sober young people benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that integrates life skills with addiction recovery. The life skills referred to here include skills in literacy and communication, decision-making, the ability to cope with daily challenges and stress, problem-solving, time management, planning, and occupational requirements. Core life skills practiced at Sober College include such tasks as cooking, laundry, cleaning, shopping, budgeting, and computer skills. There is also a special focus on personal finance and basic investment principles.

Whether students simply need to recover, or they are working towards a diploma or a degree, academic courses are available on topics ranging from Veterinary Medicine to Addiction Studies. Some of the Sober College signature courses students can take include History 101: History of Drugs and Alcohol in Music; Sociology 101: A Study of Emotional Intelligence as in Integrative Psychological Process; English 120: Composing Personal History; and Communications 458: Conflict Resolution.

Sober College makes special arrangements for students who arrive with course material from un-affiliated schools. Every precaution is taken to ensure all work that has been completed at Sober College transfers to the school of the student's choice upon discharge. This is just one of the many ways in which Sober College makes life after living at an addiction treatment center as happy and uncomplicated as possible.

Nuffield Health and Blue-Crow to Showcase ePathway Library

2008-06-23T10:57:00.000-07:00

Blue-Crow plans to showcase innovative ePathway library in collaboration with Nuffield Health. The extensive library features innovative business models that help consultants and clinicians visualise Patient Care Pathways. This will be demonstrated at the upcoming Care Pathways event held at 76 Portland Place, London (UK) on the 25th and 26th June.

(PRWEB) June 23, 2008 -- Blue-Crow, the healthcare specialist consulting practice, have today announced that they will be showcasing examples of a long-running collaborative project with Nuffield Health. This will be demonstrated at the upcoming Integrated Care Pathways (ICP 2008) event held at 76 Portland Place, London (UK) on the 25th and 26th June.

Modelling care pathways has become integral to the Healthcare industry, especially with the current National 18 week referral to treatment project and World Class Commissioning. These current and future National projects will place a greater emphasise within the organisation to look at business processes.

Producing high quality, consistent, structured and easy to use care pathways has been a prerequisite for all Health organisations to communicate both internally and externally the services that are provided, and by whom and when. Thereby reinforcing the service delivery by identifying weaknesses, optimising resource allocation and allowing for planning and for future changes to the service provision.

Through a structured mentoring approach, Blue-Crow has enabled Nuffield Health create innovate models and communicate all current state care pathways across the organisation in a common format - branded as "The Nuffield ePathway library".

A key feature to the ePathway library has been the ability to have a single-click entry point. This has provided users the ability to immediately jump into the care pathway without wasting time browsing through the vast array of information currently held. Nuffield Health have also used this approach to attach documents to the relevant care pathways enabling tighter version control and also the ability to quickly and efficiently update all Nuffield Health sites with new documentation.

"This collaborative project has facilitated a consistent approach to not only process modelling throughout the organisation, but more importantly has delivered a standard set of care pathways to be used for a multitude of purposes; from highlighting service key risk areas to communicating to patients what they may expect in their course of treatment" reported Michael Moyal, Solutions Manager of the BPMA Practice at Blue-Crow.

Being able to communicate changes throughout the organisation has attracted immediate sponsor and stakeholder engagement and also supports and encourages changes to service delivery. These pathways can be viewed either as standalone diagrams or can be published in HTML and viewed over the intranet by multiple users such as project/service improvement leads.

"For an organisation as geographically spread as Nufffield it was imperative to provide a set of pathways which could be followed not only by clinical staff but also patients, thus keeping the patient at the heart of service delivery", said Salim Sheikh, Managing Director of Blue-Crow.

Integrated Care Pathways (ICP 2008): Blue-Crow will be showcasing examples of its work at Nuffield Health at the upcoming Integrated Care Pathways (ICP 2008) event held at 76 Portland Place, London on the 25th and 26th June.

Chris Green (Solutions Consultant from Blue-Crow) and Sue Atkinson (Clinical Process and Pathway Project Manager) will be at the Nuffield Health stand to answer any questions relating to the ePathway project.

Blue-Crow will also be exhibiting several other examples of their solutions. This will include a showcase of our latest tools (Process Pad, Lean Pad and Simul8) and innovative business modelling and LEAN techniques for not only process modelling but also simulation work.

For more information on the event please visit http://www.healthcare-events.co.uk/conf/booking.php?action=home&id=117

About Blue-Crow: Founded in 2001, Blue-Crow is a privately held company with Corporate Headquarters in London, England. From its original roots in systems integration and engineering, the company has grown into a full lifecycle architecture-led solutions consultancy whose portfolio extends to enterprise-level business and systems integration and centres on business alignment strategies.

The company is composed of a series of Consultancy Practices which focus on:

Modelling & Analysis of your internal and external environment
Integration of your applications, processes, workflow & data both internal and external to your organisation
Business Intelligence through Customer Data Integration and Data warehousing and reporting solutions
Enterprise Architecture providing you with Business and IT agility

Visit www.blue-crow.com for more information or alternatively please send us an email at enquiries@blue-crow.com and we will gladly respond to any direct or general queries.

Nationwide Progress Poll Reveals Increased Efforts By Hospitals to Control MRSA Infection

2008-06-17T10:28:00.000-07:00

Healthcare Facility Infection Prevention and Control Professionals Cite Greatest Needs for Continued Success to Combat MRSA Including Additional Staff, More Environmental Services and Time-Saving High Tech Solutions

DENVER (Business Wire EON) June 16, 2008 -- More than three out of four (76%) infection prevention and control professionals (ICPs) polled indicated they have implemented additional measures to prevent the transmission of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in the last year, but 54% said their institutions are not doing as much as they could and should be doing to prevent the spread of this virulent pathogen, according to an online survey conducted by the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC).

MRSA is a type of bacteria that causes serious infections and is resistant to powerful antibiotics, including methicillin. APIC’s 2007 MRSA prevalence study found rates to be eight times greater than previously estimated. The “Pace of Progress” poll was conducted among APIC members April 25-May 15, 2008 to determine if news about the escalating rates of MRSA has led to increased efforts by healthcare institutions to combat the spread of this organism in the one year since the prevalence study results were released.

“We are very encouraged that our members have been empowered to implement additional infection prevention measures within their institutions,” said Kathy Warye, APIC CEO. “This poll indicates that many institutions are moving in the right direction.”

According to the May 2008 APIC Pace of Progress poll, institutions that have adopted new interventions are using a group of approaches to prevent the transmission of MRSA, including staff education, more aggressive hand hygiene programs, stricter use of contact precautions (gloves, gowns, etc.) for patients who test positive for MRSA, more emphasis on housekeeping and equipment cleaning and decontamination practices, targeted patient screening, maintaining a tracking system to flag patients previously identified as having MRSA, patient/client education, better HAI surveillance technology, additional staff or an increase in hours dedicated to infection control, and universal patient screening.

“It’s good news that healthcare providers are adopting a multi-faceted approach,” said APIC’s 2008 President Janet E. Frain, RN, CIC, CPHQ, CPHRM, Director, Integrated Services, Sutter Medical Center in Sacramento, CA. “This is what we have seen work, and it matches the guidance that we offer in our MRSA elimination guide for hospitals. We are also heartened to see that of those who adopted new measures to combat MRSA, 17% were able to add staff and 21% added better HAI surveillance technology. But we need to see this upward trend continue if we are to better protect patients from healthcare-associated infections.”

Of those who believe their facility could and should be doing more to control the spread of MRSA, two of the top items on their wish list include additional staff and HAI surveillance technology. Other top choices include more aggressive hand hygiene programs and greater compliance with housekeeping/equipment cleaning and decontamination practices.

APIC guidelines for the elimination of MRSA transmission include a risk assessment to identify high-risk areas for MRSA within the hospital; surveillance program to outline activities and procedures to identify MRSA cases; adherence to CDC hand hygiene guidelines; use of contact precautions (e.g., gloves, gowns and separating MRSA patients from other patients); environmental and equipment cleaning and decontamination, especially items that are close to patients such as bedrails and bedside equipment, and targeted testing of high-risk groups.

“We are concerned that there are still some facilities that lack resources and commitment across the institution,” said Warye. “With the increasing groundswell of hospitals supporting MRSA prevention programs, those facilities continuing to ignore the problem will be in an uncomfortable spotlight. As organisms such as MRSA develop increased antibiotic resistance, it is imperative that all of our nation’s healthcare professionals, from the executive suite to the bed side, embrace the concept of prevention. Reducing these infections saves lives and improves the bottom line. We invite our nation’s healthcare leaders to join with us in our Targeting Zero initiatives designed to bring healthcare-associated infections to an irreducible minimum.”

The 2008 APIC Pace of Progress poll was conducted among APIC members April 25-May 15, 2008. APIC’s nearly 12,000 members were asked to complete a five-question online survey designed to determine if additional MRSA interventions have been adopted since the release of APIC’s National MRSA Prevalence Study in June 2007. A total of 2,041 responses were received, representing a 17% response rate. For more information about the 2008 Pace of Progress poll and the 2007 National MRSA Prevalence Study, please visit us HERE

APIC’s mission is to improve health and patient safety by reducing risks of infection and other adverse outcomes. The Association’s nearly 12,000 members have primary responsibility for infection prevention, control and hospital epidemiology in health care settings around the globe. APIC advances its mission through education, research, collaboration, practice guidance, public policy, and credentialing. Visit APIC online at http://www.apic.org/

Tasers and Heart Rhythm's

2008-05-28T10:30:00.000-07:00

Should people start shouting, "Don't change my heart rhythm" instead of "Don't tase me, Bro."....

Recently in Conneticut it has been reported that a patient showing A-Fib w/ RVR became violent and after security tased him and they hooked him back up to the monitor, the ECG showed a sinus rhythm.

Gee, what about all the folks that they tased over and over that you see on the television.... where they really in danger of loosing their lives? And, I thought that tasers weren't suppose to be a lethal weapon.

Anytime there is an electrical current going through a persons body there is definitely a possibility to change the person's heart rate. The question still remains is tasing too dangerous?

Considering the alternative of having bullet put through you... maybe having electricity is still a better idea! Although, yes, I do beleive that it should be used wisely and more studies may be needed to see the effects on the heart!!!

Now, who wants to volunteer to let someone tase them while hooked up to the ECG machine???

HeartMath Pioneers in New Application of Heart Rate Variability Showcases emWave Technologies

2008-05-14T08:22:00.000-07:00

Dr. McCraty will be conducting a half-day experiential workshop at the 2008 Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback Conference where event participants will receive instruction in use of HeartMath's heart rhythm technology -- emWave Personal Stress Reliever® and emWave® PC Stress Relief System.

Boulder Creek, CA (PRWEB) May 13, 2008 -- There's a growing scientific interest in new applications for heart rate variability (HRV) measurements. Innovative programs that help people reduce emotional stress offer new hope for those with a variety of health challenges, ranging from trauma to asthma, and depression. Rollin McCraty, Ph.D., director of research for the Institute of HeartMath (http://www.heartmath.org/) has led pioneering research which uses HRV measurements to reflect emotional states. McCraty and researchers at HeartMath identified the psychophysiological state of coherence, now widely used as an effective feedback practice in stress management, emotional self-regulation and performance improvement. Dr. McCraty will be conducting a half-day experiential workshop at the 2008 Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback Conference (http://www.aapb.org/) where event participants will receive instruction in use of HeartMath's heart rhythm technology -- emWave Personal Stress Reliever® and emWave® PC Stress Relief System.

Traditionally, biofeedback has monitored bodily responses such as brainwaves (EEG), muscle tension (EMG), skin temperature, and sweat gland activity. However, HeartMath researchers discovered that monitoring heart rhythm patterns offers several unique advantages over the traditional forms of feedback. Heart rhythm feedback is considerably simpler and more straightforward for people to learn and use. It's also more reflective of changes in both branches of the autonomic nervous system and, therefore, changes in the emotional and psychological states.

The current issue of Biofeedback Magazine (http://www.aapb.org/i4a/pages/Index.cfm?pageID=3538) features an article authored by Dr. McCraty titled from "Completion to Renewal: Positive Emotions and Heart Rhythm Coherence Feedback." This special issue of Biofeedback Magazine examines HRV analysis as an emerging science and practice in the field of biofeedback. Don Moss, Ph.D., editor in chief of Biofeedback Magazine tells his readers, "HRV feedback is one of the newer and most promising areas of biofeedback, with applications to the treatment of medical conditions, the enhancement of human performance, and the achievement of higher-level health."

HeartMath's scientific contribution to the concept of heart rhythm (or HRV) feedback started with a ground-breaking study which was published in the American Journal of Cardiology in 1995. In this study HeartMath researchers identified a distinct pattern in the heart rhythms that is characteristic of positive emotions like appreciation, care, love, and compassion. This heart rhythm pattern reflects physiological coherence - simply said, coherence is when the heart, brain, and nervous system are working in harmony. Dr. Rollin McCraty says, "Our research identified a specific mode that the body naturally shifts into when we experience positive emotions. We call this the "psychophysiological coherence state," which is characterized by increased synchronization, harmony, and efficiency in the interactions within and among the physiological, cognitive, and emotional systems."

In 1999, HeartMath introduced the first affordable consumer stress-reduction product using their patented heart rhythm feedback. Their focus on heart rhythm feedback provided a refreshing departure from conventional biofeedback practices, and has since been adopted by thousands of health professionals worldwide as an effective and invaluable tool for patients suffering from stress-related issues. HeartMath's emWave technologies opened a door for consumers and health professionals in need of convenient lifestyle tools that offer the same objective feedback as more cumbersome and expensive equipment that has traditionally been used in professional settings.

The emWave products include: emWave PC Stress Relief System (http://www.emwavepc.com/) (formerly the award-winning Freeze-Framer®) was created by Doc Childre, founder of HeartMath. The PC program essentially mirrors your emotional state by collecting information from your heart through a finger or ear-clip sensor that plugs into your computer via USB. emWave PC trains you to achieve a high level of coherence. The program translates heart rhythm information into user-friendly graphics on your computer screen. As you apply the stress-reducing Quick Coherence® technique learned from the program, you see your heart rhythms change in real time as you move out of stress and into a more balanced, regenerative emotional state.

The program allows you to track your progress and has three colorful interactive games powered by your ability to transform stress into renewed energy. An innovative feature of emWave PC is its Emotion Visualizer (http://www.emwavepc.com/emwave_pc_new_features.html)®, a practice application that provides stunning images which emit varying degrees of color and movement as you adjust your emotional state.

HeartMath's emWave Personal Stress Reliever (http://www.emwave.com/) (PSR) - is a mobile lifestyle tool weighing only 2.2 ounces. The device detects your heart rhythms through its built-in finger sensor and gives immediate feedback, reflecting your emotional state through changing colored lights and sound. It includes a hands-free option and animated instructional CD-Rom that guides you through HeartMath's scientifically validated Quick Coherence® technique.

In July of 2007, the American Institute of Stress honored HeartMath's emWave Personal Stress Reliever with their award for Distinction and Innovation. "The emWave Personal Stress Reliever is a unique stress reduction tool that is unusually effective for reducing stress, anxiety and improving performance", says Paul J. Rosch, M.D., F.A.C.P.,President of the American Institute of Stress. "HeartMath has established themselves as a leader in the scientific community through their years of solid scientific research and in-depth understanding of stress and the physiology of emotions."

Both emWave products will be exhibited at the AAPB conference at the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort, Daytona Beach Florida. Dr. McCraty will lead a short workshop titled, "HeartMath Heart Coherence Training" on Thursday, May 15th from 1:00 pm -5:00 pm where he will demonstrate HeartMath's heart rhythm technologies and teach participants positive emotion-focused techniques for emotional stabilization which have been demonstrated to improve clinical outcomes. Recent research studies in this area will be discussed. AAPB participants can also try out the emWave technologies at HeartMath's booth #7.

About HeartMath® LLC: HeartMath LLC (http://www.heartmath.com/), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Quantum Intech, is a cutting-edge performance company providing a range of unique services, products, and technology to improve health and well-being, while dramatically reducing stress and boosting performance and productivity. HeartMath's organizational clients include Duke Medicine, Stanford Business School, Stanford Hospital, Mayo Health System, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Sutter Health, Scripps Center for Integrative Medicine, BP, Cisco Systems, Redken, Kaiser Permanente, Boeing and the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, as well as thousands of health professionals around the world.

About the Institute of HeartMath (IHM): Since 1991 the Institute of HeartMath (http://www.heartmath.org/) has been dedicated to helping people find balance between their mind and heart in life's activities. HeartMath researchers have conducted research and clinical studies on emotional physiology, heart-brain interactions, and the physiology of learning and performance. Through their research they have demonstrated the critical link between emotions, heart function, and cognitive performance. IHM's work has been published in numerous peer-reviewed journals such as American Journal of Cardiology, Stress Medicine, Preventive Cardiology, Journal of the American College of Cardiology, Integrative Physiological and Behavioral Science, and Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine.

Happy Nurses Day

2008-05-06T15:36:00.000-07:00

As we approach another Nurses Day with International Nurses daying being May 12th (the birthdate of Florence Nightingale), I just wanted to say thank you to all my readers for your loyal support throughout this year!

It's our day to day lives and our interactions with our patients that will make it all worth while in the end.

May the Good Lord Richly Bless You!!!

Replacing Paper Based Training With Hi-Tech Help, UK Nursing

2008-03-21T09:41:00.000-07:00

Nurses making more than 75,000 medical visits a year to enable often seriously ill people to be cared for at home are being given hi-tech help by University experts.

Healthcare at Home Limited provides private medical care for more than 5,000 patients a year around the UK, including those needing treatment for acute and chronic illnesses.

It is currently developing an online training and advice centre to replace the paper based system currently used by its 150 specialist nurses - thanks to IT experts at the University of Derby.

The software system developed with the University's Innovation 4 Learning (I4L) team will eventually mean that regular changes to training materials and policies will no longer require time spent reprinting and distributing paper-based information to nursing staff across the UK.

Staff will instead get their updates by logging on at home or in one of Healthcare at Home's regional offices. The company is based in Burton-Upon-Trent, Staffordshire.

Terry Fox, Business Development Manager for the University's I4L team, said: "In the changing world of home healthcare, you can imagine the difficulties inherent in constantly having to update the guidance for so many staff.

"With the latest version of our intelligent shell system (ISS) - called Intelligent Mobile Communication - that we've developed for Healthcare at Home, the company's staff can receive the latest training and clinical information anywhere in the world."

Healthcare at Home treats private and NHS patients using specialist nurses. The majority of patients are referred to it by consultants in specialities including oncology, orthopaedics, respiratory medicine, rheumatology, endocrinology, neurology, gastroenterology, cardiology and renal.

Procedures such as delivering intravenous antibiotics, blood transfusions, chemotherapy and related support therapies are routinely administered to patients in their own homes, or even at work. For consultants, this provides a safe, clinically proven and highly effective treatment option.

Danny Bouckley, Head of Human Resources for Healthcare at Home, added: "Collaborating with the University of Derby on this project has been a great experience.

"The new system, due to launch in March, means that our employees can keep up to date with the latest information no matter where they are."

The University's I4L team has a track record of providing innovative IT ideas for healthcare providers.

It has previously helped develop two online assessment and e-learning packages called Safe Prescribing for New Doctors and Medicines Administration for Nurses, currently in use by East Midlands hospitals, which test medical staff on their knowledge over the prescribing of drugs combinations for patients and the likely effects on patients.

About The University of Derby: The University of Derby is a thriving institution inspired by a dedication to quality and opportunity. It is an innovator in flexible modular study and e-learning solutions tailoring programmes to students' needs.

The University is home to a diverse community of over 20,000 students from the UK and overseas. Subjects offered to students include a wide range of disciplines in Arts, Design and Technology; Business, Computing and Law; and Education, Health and Sciences, all leaders in their field.

In the Teaching Quality Information (TQI) National Student Survey for 2007, Law at the University of Derby was top in the UK for student satisfaction. The Law course also rated first in the UK for Personal Development, Teaching and Academic Support.

The Learning Through Work team in the School of Flexible and Partnership Learning won the prestigious 2006 Times Higher Education Supplement Award for 'Most Imaginative Use Of Distance Learning'. The team has an enviable track record of delivering higher education courses to employees. Last year the University was shortlisted for the award of 'University of the Year' alongside five others.

The University of Derby Students' Union, a number of research centres and academic schools, including The Derbyshire Business School, are all based at the Kedleston Road site. Facilities include our new £1.5m Clinical Skills Suite and a pioneering computer games development suite.

The UK's first dedicated site for arts, design and technology was opened by Sir Richard Branson, President of Virgin Atlantic, in autumn 2007. It forms just one part of a £55m estates investment strategy that is creating a University Quarter for Derby, building on the success of our multiple award winning £23m campus in the Peak District spa town of Buxton.

The Devonshire Campus at Buxton is the result of five years of careful restoration. Teaching there commenced in September 2005 and the Devonshire was opened officially by Their Royal Highnesses Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall in February 2006. The building's centrepiece is a magnificent Dome, larger than St Paul's in London - its facilities are among the finest in Europe.

All our schools and faculties enjoy links with household names such as Rolls-Royce and Toyota. The University Quarter in Derby incorporates sites at Kedleston Road, Markeaton Street and Britannia Mill to the west of Derby city centre.

Derby achieved University status in 1992. In 2006 it won an 'Improving Working Lives' award sponsored by the Times Higher Education Supplement. Professor John Coyne has been the University's Vice-Chancellor since the summer of 2004. For more information check out their website at: http://www.derby.ac.uk

New Study Shows Emotional Intelligence Reduces Stress and Predicts 66% of Key Success Factors in Healthcare

2008-03-08T06:05:00.000-08:00

Researchers found that healthcare professionals high in emotional intelligence are far more effective in a number of key performance areas including stress management, showing that these skills are critical for healthcare professionals - and especially those in leadership positions. Over 66% of performance is predicted by emotional intelligence, rising to nearly 80% for more senior team members.

In a study conducted with the obstetrics department of a major urban hospital in Bologna, Italy, the healthcare professionals high in emotional intelligence scored far better in an assessment of job performance and life success. The highest performers scored an average of over 30% better on the "Six Seconds Emotional Intelligence Assessment (http://6seconds.org/sei/)," a powerful measure of essential competencies for being smart with feelings.

Study coauthor Lorenzo Fariselli, manager of research for Six Seconds Italy, explained the importance of the finding: "Stress is increasingly challenging for organizations and professionals worldwide, but it's been unclear how to most effectively manage this problem. Now we know that emotional intelligence is one of the most important ingredients for professionals to effectively cope and thrive in a challenging work environment." The White Paper of findings entitled "Stress, Emotional Intelligence and Performance in Healthcare (http://6seconds.org/sei/wp-stress.php)" is online.

The study also found that the power of EQ, or emotional intelligence, was even greater for the most senior team members. While on average EQ explains over 66% of the variation in performance scores, for the most senior team members that increases to nearly 80%. In other words, the more senior you are, the more important it is to be an expert with emotions.

Freedman says many organizations view EQ as an investment they might make when they have the resources, but he offers a different suggestion: "EQ is most essential in times of stress and challenge; training in this area is a 'life ring,' not an 'investment.'" He is quick to point out that developing these skills isn't a major expense in time and resource - "We're not talking about implementing some expensive or complex new system. EQ is something to be - a little more each week."

Emotional intelligence (abbreviated "EQ" for "emotional quotient") continues to gain attention around the world as an essential asset for success in work and life. The science grows from research by Peter Salovey (Yale University) and John Mayer (University of New Hampshire) who published their first papers in 1990 showing how we have intelligence with emotions. EQ was popularized in the mid 1990s by New York Times science writer Daniel Goleman. To help people understand how to develop and apply this breakthrough concept, Six Seconds was established in 1997.

Six Seconds, The Emotional Intelligence Network (http://6seconds.org/), is the world-leading resource for emotional intelligence development with offices in six countries and over 1500 certified practitioners world-wide. A not-for-profit organization, Six Seconds advocates for the importance of EQ and supports change agents making a positive difference in every sector of society (see http://www.6seconds.org/ for more).

Heparin Is Recalled

2008-03-04T06:56:00.000-08:00

The Food and Drug Administration is issuing this update to inform the public that Baxter Healthcare Corporation has extended its recall of multi-dose vials of heparin sodium for injection to also include single-dose vials of heparin sodium for injection.

As a precautionary measure Baxter is also recalling its heparin lock flush products. The heparin source manufacturer for lock flush solutions is the same as that for Baxter’s heparin sodium for injection. Alternate heparin manufacturers are expected to be able to increase heparin production sufficiently to supply the US market.

Since FDA learned of the adverse events associated with the Baxter multi-dose heparin vials, the Drug Shortages Team at FDA has been working closely with APP, the other supplier in the US for heparin multi-dose and single-dose vials, to determine their manufacturing capacity. With the verification that APP can now adequately supply the US market Baxter is voluntarily recalling all of its multi-dose and single-dose vials. FDA has also confirmed that there are multiple U.S. suppliers of heparin lock flush products with substantial inventory, making a shortage of these products unlikely.

The recall notice issued by Baxter provides instructions to healthcare providers and institutions regarding the identification and disposition of their product they may have in their inventories. The only Baxter heparin-containing products that will remain on the market are large volume parenteral solutions containing 200 Units of heparin per 100 cc in 500 and 1000 cc total volume bags. No adverse events have been reported in relation to the large volume solution. The heparin source manufacturer for the large volume solution is different from that of the products being recalled.

On February 11, 2008, the FDA issued a public health advisory informing the public about reports of serious adverse events in patients who received bolus injections of heparin sodium primarily from multi-dose vials manufactured by Baxter Healthcare Corporation. A description of the clinical settings and characteristics of the cases of serious adverse events that resulted in the public health advisory can be found at http://www.fda.gov/cder/drug/advisory/heparin.htm.

The underlying cause of adverse events reported for Baxter’s heparin sodium is still unknown and remains under investigation. FDA investigators and scientists are working independently and in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and Baxter to discover the underlying cause of the adverse events.

FDA continues to monitor its post-marketing safety database for additional cases in the US and abroad related to heparin usage. Health care providers are encouraged to report all allergic-type reactions to any heparin infusion to FDA’s MedWatch on line at http://www.fda.gov/medwatch/report/hcp.htm, by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178, by mail using the postage-paid address form provided on line, or by telephone to 1-800-FDA-1088.

Emotional Intelligence Reduces Stress in Healthcare Workers.

2008-02-28T06:10:00.000-08:00

New Study Shows Emotional Intelligence Reduces Stress and Predicts 66% of Key Success Factors in Healthcare Researchers found that healthcare professionals high in emotional intelligence are far more effective in a number of key performance areas including stress management, showing that these skills are critical for healthcare professionals - and especially those in leadership positions. Over 66% of performance is predicted by emotional intelligence, rising to nearly 80% for more senior team members.

San Francisco (PRWEB) February 26, 2008 -- While stress is a challenge to almost everyone, the way doctors and nurses cope with stress can be a matter of life and death. Fortunately new research reveals one key for dealing with the pressure: emotional intelligence.In a study conducted with the obstetrics department of a major urban hospital in Bologna, Italy, the healthcare professionals high in emotional intelligence scored far better in an assessment of job performance and life success. The highest performers scored an average of over 30% better on the "Six Seconds Emotional Intelligence Assessment (http://6seconds.org/sei/)," a powerful measure of essential competencies for being smart with feelings.Study coauthor Lorenzo Fariselli, manager of research for Six Seconds Italy, explained the importance of the finding: "Stress is increasingly challenging for organizations and professionals worldwide, but it's been unclear how to most effectively manage this problem. Now we know that emotional intelligence is one of the most important ingredients for professionals to effectively cope and thrive in a challenging work environment." The White Paper of findings entitled "Stress, Emotional Intelligence and Performance in Healthcare (http://6seconds.org/sei/wp-stress.php)" is online.

Joshua Freedman is Chief Operating Officer of Six Seconds and one of the world's leading authorities on the development of emotional intelligence. "Around the globe we've seen that emotional intelligence is the difference that makes the difference. Leaders who choose to be emotionally intelligent create mission success and drive value," Freedman says. Freedman says many organizations view EQ as an investment they might make when they have the resources, but he offers a different suggestion: "EQ is most essential in times of stress and challenge; training in this area is a 'life ring,' not an 'investment.'" He is quick to point out that developing these skills isn't a major expense in time and resource - "We're not talking about implementing some expensive or complex new system. EQ is something to be - a little more each week.

"Emotional intelligence (abbreviated "EQ" for "emotional quotient") continues to gain attention around the world as an essential asset for success in work and life. The science grows from research by Peter Salovey (Yale University) and John Mayer (University of New Hampshire) who published their first papers in 1990 showing how we have intelligence with emotions. EQ was popularized in the mid 1990s by New York Times science writer Daniel Goleman. To help people understand how to develop and apply this breakthrough concept, Six Seconds was established in 1997. Six Seconds, The Emotional Intelligence Network (http://6seconds.org), is the world-leading resource for emotional intelligence development with offices in six countries and over 1500 certified practitioners world-wide. A not-for-profit organization, Six Seconds advocates for the importance of EQ and supports change agents making a positive difference in every sector of society (see www.6seconds.org for more).

For more information contact Yoshimi Miyazaki at www.6seconds.org or give them a call at 831-763-0366.

Wound Care Using A Vacuum!

2008-02-23T15:59:00.000-08:00

Well, not a Hoover or Electrolux.... I'm talking talking about a WoundVac. One the latest technologies that I believe is a god-send for wound care nurses.

Just the basics... after placing a piece of foam over the wound, a plastic occlusive dressing is placed over the wound and then a special plastic dressing with a hose leading out of it to a small vacuum. The vaccum then creates a vacuum with the purpose being that all the wound will be dry with less of a medium for microbes to grow in, the foam also helps in granulation and helps in removal of dead tissue. The fluid is collected into a container, which is then properly disposed in the biohazardous waste.

The big advantage to this system is wounds can heal twice as fast compared to some of the "old fashion" ways. I still remember packing wounds with hoof ointment and sugar! HA! We did heal a Stage IV decub in 6 months, but how much faster could this be done now-a-days?

I can't wait to see what else they come up with in wound care tecnhologies!

Kansas Combatting Nursing Shortage

2008-02-22T06:27:00.000-08:00

(TOPEKA) – Today the Kansas Board of Regents released the first annual report for the Kansas Nursing Initiative – a 10-year, $30 million state funding and matching grant program that was approved by the State Legislature and signed into law by the Governor in 2006.

The nursing initiative’s goal is to combat Kansas’ looming nursing shortage, and, in its first year, the program achieved the following results:

507 additional nursing students were admitted in FY 2007;
28 full-time and 23 part-time additional nursing faculty were hired;
53 Nurse Educator Service Scholarships were awarded; and
27 human patient simulators were placed into nursing classrooms.

“After the first year of implementation, the results clearly indicate that the Board’s nursing initiative has been an overwhelming success. With the results already achieved, the state’s 22 public nursing programs have taken a major step forward in addressing one of Kansas’ most pressing workforce development issues – an issue that only increases in importance as the state’s population continues to age,” said Reginald L. Robinson, President and CEO of the Kansas Board of Regents. “The Legislature should be applauded for its foresight and for investing critical state resources in this initiative. In addition, I would like to thank the six organizations that have been our hard-working partners in making this program such a success: the Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging, the Kansas Association of Nurse Leaders, the Kansas Board of Nursing, the Kansas Health Care Association, the Kansas Hospital Association, and the Kansas State Nurses Association.”

The nursing initiative utilizes a combination of grant and scholarship programs to increase the capacity of existing Registered Nursing (RN) programs in Kansas. The first component of the program aims to increase the availability of qualified nursing faculty in public postsecondary nursing education programs through the Nurse Educator Service Scholarships program where scholarship recipients agree to engage in the full-time teaching of nursing in a Kansas nursing program after receiving their Masters in Nursing or Doctorate degree. The second component, the Nursing Faculty Salaries and Supplies program, allows nursing programs to apply for grant funds to increase the number and retention of qualified nursing faculty and for consumable supplies used in nursing programs. The third component, the Nursing Equipment2and Facility Upgrades program, assists nursing programs in obtaining new technology, equipment or space to accommodate increased program capacity.The annual report can be found on the Board’s website at http://www.kansasregents.org/.

Background:The 2005 Legislature, concerned about the shortage of nurses in Kansas, recommended that the Board report to the Governor and the 2006 Legislature regarding the resources required to increase the capacity of the state’s higher education system to educate registered nurses by 25 percent. The Legislature also requested that the report include a timeline for building the infrastructure necessary to accommodate up to 250 more nursing student admissions annually.

Among the causes for the nursing shortage in Kansas is an increased utilization of the health care system by an aging population at the same time many existing nurses will be retiring. The Kansas Department of Labor predicted that 6,890 new Registered Nurse (RN) positions will be needed by 2010 to meet the workforce demand. An additional 4,460 RN replacement positions will be needed due to retirements, for a total projected need of 11,350.

Implementing nationwide strategies and initiatives within the state, Kansas has been successful in attracting individuals to careers in health care. The pressing issue now does not revolve around filling the pipeline with students interested in nursing careers, but rather expanding postsecondary program capacity for those who want to become trained nurses. Virtually every nursing program has an extensive waiting list of qualified applicants. Increasing capacity in nursing programs is a complex process that consists of acquiring additional qualified nursing faculty, securing additional clinical instruction sites, and increasing classroom space and equipment.

The nine-member Kansas Board of Regents is the governing board of the state’s six universities and a coordinating board for nineteen community colleges, ten technical institutions, and a municipal university. In addition, the Board administers the state’s student financial aid, adult education, GED, and career and technical education programs. The Board also authorizes private proprietary schools and out-of-state institutions to operate in Kansas, and administers the Kan-ed network, a statewide network that provides broadband Internet access and distance learning capabilities for schools, hospitals, and libraries.

For more information contactKip Peterson, Director of Government Relations & Communications, at (785) 296-3421.Visit the Kansas Board of Regents on the Web at http://www.kansasregents.org/

Early Detection of Tuberculosis

2008-02-09T07:47:00.000-08:00

Yes, it is a hidden disease. The patient remains asymptomatic for long periods, and the disease is often diagnosed during routine tests, when a chest X-ray reveals the 'hidden' disease, i.e. tuberculosis. It has thus an occult/hidden character.

In places where the incidence of tuberculosis is not marked, 'tuberculin test surveys' be carried out among the general population, which gives an idea of the number of cases who are tuberculin positive, i.e. infected with tubercle bacilli (although the disease may be inactive in the majority of them). Those who have shown positive in the tuberculin test should be subjected to an X-ray examination of the chest, so as to find out hidden/ symptomless, especially active cases of the disease - in other words those who are suffering from active tuberculosis, but still showing no symptoms of the disease, can be detected.

For an epidemiological survey, small X-rays may be taken through a special X-;ray plant fitted in a van, which moves from place to place or village to village, or visits poor communities/slums. X-rays are taken in quick succession, one by one, of the various persons, who 'are made to stand in a queue before entering the van. They come out of the van after the exposure for the chest X-ray. This is called miniature mass radiography (MMR). These surveys were most common in the past when the disease was at its peak.

However, in places where the incidence of tuberculosis is high, all persons in such areas are expected to be infected with tubercle bacilli, i.e. they will be found as tuberculin positive. Hence the tuberculin test is of little value at such places, for epidemiological survey, and therefore, one can directly switch on to MMR study, for the detection of both hidden and active cases of tuberculosis.

It may, however, be noted that X-ray of the chest alone may not be always confirmatory of the diagnosis/activity of tuberculosis, either in a mass surveyor in an individual. Hence, when the disease is suspected, other tests, must be carried out, including a detailed clinical examination,'keeping the symptomatology of the patient in view.

Also, in the MMR study, small X-ray films taken may not give the true picture of the disease. And, there even may be variations in reading these X-ray films. Even if a tubercular lesion appears to be positive, it must be confirmed by a large chest X-ray, as well as by other tests. It is never wise to administer treatment of tuberculosis to a patient only on the basis of miniature radiographs.

The MMR study is now no longer widely carried out in places/ countries where the incidence of tuberculosis is low, because too few cases may be found positive, involving the expense of a lot of time, money, and above all, at the risk of exposure to X-ray radiation for a large population.

Also, in all those groups of persons who daily come in contact with a large number of people, such as the bus-drivers, conductors, teachers, and the entire medical staff, like doctors, nurses, attendants, technicians, radiographers etc., chest X-rays should be carried out because they comprise the high-risk groups. Spread of the disease has also been noticed in creches, schools, school-buses, hostels, and even in nursing homes, etc.

Similarly, the disease must be detected in servants, waiters in restaurants, salesmen, postmen, washermen, sweepers, barbers, cobblers, etc. People living in slums and shanty towns, chawls, etc. should also be checked for the detection of tuberculosis.

All efforts must be made to unearth 'hidden' cases of tuberculosis, as they are most dangerous to society. They go on spreading the disease for a pretty long time, till it is diagnosed and treated.

John Edwards Has A Healthcare Plan!

2008-01-25T02:28:00.000-08:00

John Edwards has a great to plan to give families coverage at an affordable price, they will pay less and get more choices, along with businesses and other employers will find it cheaper and easier to insure their workers.

How does he plan to do this?

Requiring businesses and other employers to either cover their employees or help finance their health insurance.
Making insurance affordable by creating new tax credits, expanding Medicaid and SCHIP, reforming insurance laws, and taking innovative steps to contain health care costs.
Creating regional "Health Care Markets" to let every American share the bargaining power to purchase an affordable, high-quality health plan, increase choices among insurance plans, and cut costs for businesses offering insurance.

Once these steps have been taken, requiring all American residents to get insurance. Securing universal healthcare for every American will require the active involvement of millions of Americans.

More information can be found at the John Edwards Website: http://www.johnedwards.com/

Mitt Romney On Healthcare

2008-01-15T19:36:00.000-08:00

"The 45 million who don't have insurance – if they get sick they go to the emergency room for care. And that's not ideal care, as you know, it's not the preventative care they need, doesn't get them the prescription drugs to stave off an acute condition developing from a chronic condition."

And why do they use the emergency room? Because they don't have insurance, and they know that the ER can not turn them down. And who pays for this? It's called a big write off at the end of the year, and then the hospitals charge more for care the next year to make up the losses. And who pays for that? Well, my friends, YOU!!! The insurance premiums that you pay take a big hike, and you get to pay more.

Something screws up at the hospital, and a law suit is filed... the doctor and hospital settles out of court, and who pays for that? YOU!!! The malpractice insurance then increases for the physician who very kindly passes those charges on to the consumer. Don't get me wrong, I strongly believe in law suits for gross misconduct, but for some of the silly stuff that we see?

And just how does Mitt Romney plan on giving Americans more affordable healthcare?

Deregulate State Markets.
Fix The Tax Code.
Reform The Medical Liability System.
Promote Innovation In Medicaid.
Bring Health Care Into The 21st Century.

And what has Romney said about he is going to accomplish this?

Allow people to purchase private insurance, not government insurance. People must be responsible for themselves!
No government-managed healthcare and no increase in taxes.
No more free rides.

Gov. Mitt Romney (R-Mass) did it for his state of Massachusetts, but can he have success in lowering the hospital bill of Americans all over the United States? Good Luck Mitt!!!

This is the first article in a series on what the condidates think about healthcare. I have sent an email to EVERY major candidate, and I will be posting articles as I get permission to use information from their websites.

Some of the above posted information was used by permission from: http://www.mittromney.com/Issues/healthcare BIG THANKS to the Mitt Romney campaign for their prompt answer to my request.

Restraint Use

2008-01-09T22:17:00.000-08:00

I recently read about a nursing home who was fined $20,000 for unnessarily restraining patients. This brought to my mind the question, what types of restraints are being used now and are they really more safe?

When I first starting out in nursing, we used belts quite a few times. I have heard of lots of stories and even seen a few "hangings" where patients slipped out of the chair or bed and hung themselves with those belts. Sure glad that those things are of the past!

What about wrist restraints? It's not like we're restraining ALL of the patient, but those can be so misused also! I've seen patients tied to the bed with such force that their hands are blue... Not Good! I've also seen very good uses of these type of restraints, and yes, I do believe that these are much better than some of the other restraints. You might also try the mits that give the patient full range of motion, but keep them from picking at IV lines, foley catheters, or feeding tubes.

One of the best ideas that I have seen in a long time is a tent type of restraint. The patient is in a "tent" which has zippers and a nylon screen. This allows the patient to be more free in the tent, but doesn't necessarily "tie" the patient to the bed! The can move alot more and therefore it doesn't seem to bother them as much. This is a lifesaver on a unit with traumatic brain injuries!

What are some of your ideas for less restraints?

Alaris® & Awarepoint® Partner to Track and MonitorInfusion Pumps

2007-12-09T08:55:00.000-08:00

San Diego, CA, September 11, 2007 – Awarepoint Corporation today announced a breakthroughpartnership with Cardinal Health Alaris to enhance patient safety and provide hospital staff with up-tothe-minute information about the status and location of Alaris PC infusion pumps and modulesthroughout their facility. The Alaris PC infusion pump includes integrated wireless connectivity thatworks seamlessly with Awarepoint’s Real-time Awareness SolutionSM.

Using Awarepoint’s patent-pending technology to remotely monitor Alaris PC infusion pumps, thisintegrated approach will provide hospital staff with real-time actionable information including: whichpatient is using the pump, which modules are attached and whether or not the pump and its modulesare in use. The Awarepoint Real-time Awareness SolutionSM further delivers equipment locationinformation to staff via Searchpoint™, an intuitive user interface that can be accessed from anynetworked PC. Designed with busy clinical staff in mind, Searchpoint offers simple, one-clicksearching capability with results instantly displayed on a map of the facility.

The Awarepoint solution has proven to reduce staff time searching for equipment, enhance patientsafety and optimize equipment utilization. “Providing richer, asset-specific information allows hospitalstaff to search more effectively,” said Ron B. Hegli, Vice President of Engineering and ChiefTechnology Officer at Awarepoint. “Together, we leverage the Alaris Gateway interface to enrichAwarepoint search results pertaining to pumps.”

Awarepoint and Alaris are committed to providing the best possible medical solution for patients andhospitals. The new agreement between the companies will enhance clinical documentation andmedication administration to better streamline hospital processes.

About Awarepoint: The Awarepoint® Real-time Awareness Solution SM delivers healthcare providers reliable location,status and movement information to remotely monitor equipment and people. Using minimal hardwareand no hard wiring, Awarepoint offers a non-disruptive installation - even in occupied patient rooms.Our award-winning, rapid impact implementation enables hospitals to map resources, monitor activityand measure performance to more effectively improve business processes that impact patient care andoperational efficiencies. Awarepoint is provided as a fully managed service, including all hardware,software, 24/7/365 remote system monitoring and full maintenance. The company is headquartered inSan Diego, California and serves hospitals across the United States through a national sales andoperations workforce. See what’s new at www.awarepoint.com

Nursing Seminars

2007-12-01T06:12:00.000-08:00

Continuing education is an essential part of a career in nursing and is required to keep a license and vital to keeping skills fresh. The trick is finding the time to get these continuing education hours in and still have a life outside of work. Balancing a personal life and work is hard enough without additional time demands.

College courses can be huge time commitments. These usually span a whole semester and many have strict attendance policies. Online courses offer a less time intensive option, however you are on your own to learn the material. No one is presenting it to you. So, what is a working nurse to do? That is where nursing seminars come in. These are chances to get some much needed continuing education in a shorter amount of time.

Some seminars may be offered at the workplace. Others may take place at local or regional conferences. These are designed around convenience and pack a lot of information in a small space of time.

Another positive to nursing seminars is the focused nature of this type of training. A seminar usually focuses on one particular area of nursing. A college course is general and covers all the topics included under the course title. A nursing seminar may focus on one new technique or piece of equipment. A seminar may present the newest research available. It can be focused on new developments in patient care or ways of dealing with colleagues and the stress of the job. No matter the topic, there is much to be gained by attending seminars.

Rubbing elbows with others in the field is another benefit of these seminars. It might be co-workers in the same hospital that you don't see because of opposite shifts or colleagues in other hospitals or clinics. Keeping these connections fresh can pay off when they are needed. These people have the same work-related interests and concerns as you. They are great sounding boards for new ideas and great support in times of need.

Many seminars offer a chance for the give and take of information. Some presenters will open with an idea session, asking for audience participation right off the bat. This is a chance to get answers to questions that may have been lingering. It is also a chance to bounce ideas off colleagues and those higher up in the field. Some seminars, the smaller ones, are set up as a roundtable discussion, with the sharing of ideas as a central theme. This meshing of minds and ideas is a common formula for the development of sound policies and procedures.

The skills and information gained from the seminars can usually be put into practice immediately. Whether it's a seminar to help prepare for testing or one on the newest technique used in critical care for cardiac patients, the information is relevant to what you are doing right now. Learning how to use a new piece of equipment or the steps of a new procedure will pay off in less confusion and less of a learning curve for everyone involved. Patients will benefit from this new found knowledge, as will colleagues and employers. The skills gained could lead to promotions and extra responsibilities or perhaps even more pay.

Seminars are designed to be focused and many times are delivered in smaller group settings. Some seminars may be delivered in large lecture halls with less give and take. These should be approached like any lecture and the information taken back and shared with the group at work. This is where the ideas are generated and implementation takes place. Small group seminars, such as those that come to you, offer more immediate feedback and idea generation, however, this sometimes leads to missing some information or seminars running long.

Nursing seminars are similar to any other seminar. The goal is to present an idea and get the information out in a short span of time. Those who are interested in more detailed information can then explore the ideas through additional courses or classes. Many new and innovative ideas are presented in seminars. It is a good way to spark interest in these new technologies or ideas. Nurses who attend may find equipment or techniques that would enhance their work with patients and can take those ideas back to their supervisors for possible implementation. This shows a supervisor that you have initiative and are committed to the patients.

Nursing seminars are great opportunities to get those much needed continuing education hours in short time blocks, but they are so much more. They offer opportunities to network, share ideas, develop new ideas, enhance patient care skills, and bring back ideas for change in the workplace. Seminars are ripe with opportunities to advance your nursing career and make you a better nurse.

About Author:Megan Hazel is a freelance writer who writes about topics concerning the nursing profession such as Nursing Uniforms.

Avian Flu Spikes Concern Over Online Sales of Medications

2007-11-30T08:37:00.000-08:00

For the past several months, avian influenza has dominated health headlines across the globe. A number of countries are reporting cases of avian influenza, commonly referred to as "bird flu", in their domestic and wild bird populations. In addition, there are confirmed cases of bird-to-human transmissions of avian influenza in the South East Asia region, many of which have resulted in death. Concerns over bird flu have caused a spike in online prescriptions from foreign pharmacies for medications such as Tamiflu. This boom is reinforced with each new report of an avian flu outbreak and resources to get these prescription medications from online foreign pharmacies are popping up across the Internet.

Reports have shown that many of these online foreign pharmacies are not quite what they seem. Consumers are being taken each day by websites promising genuine medications and not delivering. To combat this type of fraud in the face of increased demand, resources are now available on the Internet that can present multiple options for consumers seeking discount medications from foreign pharmacies.

FreeBeeForeignPharmacy.com has been online for over 3 years and has provided thousands of consumers with real options for purchasing their medications over the Internet. The site provides its members with a search that returns specific results for their necessary drugs from multiple online pharmacies. The choices are complete with prices, quantities, and user reviews of each pharmacy. The last point is the most important. This user review system provides more confidence to consumers wary of ordering from a particular online pharmacy. With the rising concern over avian influenza, this type of confidence is essential.

Avian influenza medications such as Tamiflu are available from multiple pharmacies on FreeBeeForeignPharmacy.com. Consumers can compare prices for these medications and many others for a low monthly subscription fee. They also offer a 100% guarantee that you will find your medications through their database. The security and confidence that this site provides is a standard that consumers can now utilize when purchasing medications. If you are concerned with avian flu, settle for no less than this standard if you are purchasing your medications online.

For more information check out: http://www.freebeeforeignpharmacy.com

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-22T08:04:00.001-08:00

Just wanted to take time out and wish everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Thank you for helping get this site off of the ground!!!!

Greetings

2007-11-19T20:12:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone. Just wanted to let you know that I'm so excited about bringing another great nursing website to nurses. I truly hope that my nursing and educating effort will exceed all other futuristic nursing websites out there. If you have any comments or suggestions let me know!!!