Drug Store Directory Blog

Mesothelioma Survival Rates Among Patients Taking New Treatment

noreply@blogger.com ((hris) — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 03:33:00 +0000

LegalView Recounts the Results of a Recent Mesothelioma Study That Reported High Survival Rates Among Patients Taking New Treatment

LegalView reported the results of an Italian study to its mesothelioma blog readers; the results detailed a positive outcome and increased survival rate for elderly pleural mesothelioma victims. The study, recently published in a British medical journal, used a combination of two medicinal treatments commonly prescribed separately.

Denver, CO, August 16, 2008 -- LegalView, the most comprehensive legal resource available on the Web, recounted the results of an Italian study to its mesothelioma information blog readers. The study attempted to increase the survival rate of elderly pleural mesothelioma patients by combining two medications: Alimta (pemtrexed) and Paraplatin (carboplatin). The results of the study were released in a June issue of the British Journal of Cancer and the conclusions detailed the highly-effective treatments, which increased the survival rate among pleural mesothelioma patients 65 years of age or older.

Mesothelioma is an incurable cancer that is often attributed to the inhalation of asbestos fibers and dust containing tremolite. Asbestos is a known carcinogen, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which is responsible for regulating the cleanup of the hazardous material. Asbestos was often prized for its ability to remain fire-resistant, while being produced cheaply, and served as a key ingredient in many products including insulation that was implemented into homes, apartment complexes, universities, schools, business offices and hospitals around the country. Individuals who suffer from mesothelioma cancer are advised to speak with a knowledgeable mesothelioma attorney in order to better educate themselves on the possibility for developing a mesothelioma lawsuit. Due to the extremely costly medical bills associated with increasing survival rate among mesothelioma cancer victims, developing litigation may result in monetary compensation to assist with those medical bills.

LegalView not only offers resources on the most recent mesothelioma news and clinical trials, but also offers information on a variety of other legal issues afflicting millions of Americans. Most recently, LegalView updated several of its pharmaceutical drug information portals with news on updates and recalls; some of the portals include Viapro, Ketek and the Zimmer Durom cup.

The development of the Viapro information portal occurred after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a press release on the recall of the drug because of contamination of a harmful chemical known as thiomethisosildenafil. The male sexual-enhancement prescription drug, manufactured by EG Labs, is used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). The undeclared ingredient may be harmful to patients especially when interacting with nitrates found in other prescription drugs. The Viapro recall occurred because the drug may cause dangerously low levels of blood pressure among patients also taking nitroglycerin for diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or heart disease.

Ketek, which is an antibiotic used to treat upper respiratory infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis and sinusitis, had its warning labels increased recently due to the threat of liver disease among patients consuming the drug. To learn more about the Ketek side effects, visit http://ketek.legalview.com/.

Also among the recently updated information portals is that of the Zimmer Durom cup. Zimmer Holdings has ceased production of its Durom cup because of complaints that the hip socket was failing among many patients. Although the company has ceased production of the hip socket, pending internal investigations into the potential failure, the hip socket has already been used in over 12,000 hip replacement procedures since its introduction to the market in 2006. Patients who may be at risk for the Durom cup failure should seek medical attention immediately to ensure no further damage occurs.

About LegalView:
LegalView.com is a public service brought to you by Legal WebTV Network, LLC, a Limited Liability Corporation created by a group of the nation's most highly respected law firms: Anapol Schwartz; Brent Coon and Associates; Burg Simpson; Cohen, Placitella and Roth; James F. Humphreys and Associates; Lopez McHugh; and Thornton and Naumes. For more information on the accomplishments and track records of LegalView.com's superior sponsoring law firms and to get in touch with LegalView attorneys, visit LegalView at www.LegalView.com/.

Contact Information
LegalView
Katie Kelley
720-771-3246
press-releases@legalview.com
www.legalview.com

Revolutionary HIV Testing Bill Passes

noreply@blogger.com ((hris) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 04:24:00 +0000

Bill to 'Revolutionize' HIV Testing Passes California Legislature Unanimously

AB 2899 (Portantino, D-Pasadena), Sponsored by AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), Overhauls Counseling Model for HIV Testing Programs; Bill Eliminates Outdated 'One Size Fits All' Approach for More Prudent Public Health Approach

SACRAMENTO, Calif.-- August 12, 2008 --AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), the operator of the largest non-government HIV testing program in California, today praised the California Legislature for its passage this week of Assembly Bill 2899 (Portantino, D-Pasadena).

"AB 2899 will revolutionize the way we do HIV testing in California, and we strongly urge the Governor to sign this bill," said Michael Weinstein, President of AIDS Healthcare Foundation. "Today, in government-funded programs, extensive education and counseling is required for every person regardless of how many times they might have been tested. Treating the young person, who is testing for the first time the same as a person in their forties or fifties who has been tested dozens of times doesn't make sense. This important reform will allow AHF, the largest HIV tester in California, to do three times as many tests per hour as we do now. The unanimous approval of the legislature for this common sense approach to HIV testing is very encouraging."

The bill, known as the Sexually Transmitted Diseases and HIV/AIDS Counseling Reform Bill, unanimously cleared both chambers of the Legislature this week-clearing the California Assembly (64-0) earlier today after clearing the Senate in a 36 to 0 vote yesterday.

"This bill brings the requirements for HIV counseling in line with where we are today in our knowledge and understanding of HIV/AIDS and other STDs, and it will allow us to focus our counseling efforts where they are most needed-to those at high risk and those who may test positive," said Joey Terrill, Acting Director of Public Affairs for AIDS Healthcare Foundation, co-sponsor of the bill. "The California Legislature has recognized the importance of this prudent public health legislation with its unanimous passage in both chambers. When this bill is chaptered into law, it will allow the Department of Public Health and the State Office of AIDS far more flexibility in its counseling regulations to best serve and reflect the needs of communities throughout California."

AB 2899 codifies the changes that testing organizations need to conform their practices to current needs and to facilitate the swift introduction of newer counseling models by the Office of AIDS.

About AHF

AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) is the nation's largest non-profit HIV/AIDS healthcare provider. AHF currently provides medical care and/or services to more than 80,000 individuals in 20 countries worldwide in the US, Africa, Latin America/Caribbean and Asia. Additional information is available at www.aidshealth.org
Contacts

AIDS Healthcare Foundation
Ged Kenslea, 323-860-5225
Mobile: 323-791-5523
gedk@aidshealth.org
or
Lori Yeghiayan, 323-860-5227
Mobile: 323-377-4312
lori.yeghiayan@aidshealth.org

Families Informed About Insurance Coverage With Medical Reimbursement Resource

noreply@blogger.com ((hris) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 19:52:00 +0000

Medical Reimbursement Resource LLC of Houston Helps Families Stay Informed, Choose Right Insurance Coverage

Company Educates Consumers of Medicare Part C Advantage Plan Enrollment Period Deadline - March 31, 2008

Houston, TX - March 12 -- Medical Reimbursement Resource (MRR) LLC, a leading patient advocacy company in Houston, advises the Medicare community of March 31st Medicare Part C enrollment deadline and helps educate consumers on the best health insurance choices for their situation.

MRR professionals explain that the Medicare program is a federal program that helps senior citizens and other qualifying individuals pay for health care. Divided into parts, A, B, C, and D, Part C is an alternative to Parts A and B. Under Part C, private health insurance companies can contract with the federal government to offer Medicare benefits through their own policies.

"Medicare Part C Advantage Plans are not for everyone. Generally the choice of providers is more limited than with traditional Medicare Parts A & B. Individuals with special health problems and working with physicians that are important to them are recommended to remain on Medicare Parts A and B," said MRR owner Jane Lehto.

"However, it's great to have another insurance option available for Medicare beneficiaries. This is where Medicare Part C comes in," Lehto added.

Lehto and her staff help clients choose the right insurance coverage and receive all benefits to which they are entitled under their particular policy. With over 40 plans from which to choose in Texas, it is an often difficult process through which to navigate for the unknowing consumer.

Lehto further explained that the type of candidates qualifying for the Medicare Part C, particularly the Medicare Part C Advantage Plus plan, would be those in fragile health and on fixed incomes. The relatively new plans include either HMO's or PPO's and come with modest premiums. A vast number of physicians and hospitals participate in the plans.

"And effective this past January is the option for those switching from Medicare Parts A and B to return to their plans for whatever reason during the enrollment period from November 15 through December 31, 2008," said Lehto.

MRR also assists patients and their families with problem health insurance claims and medical bills, benefit issues, along with insurance choices and a myriad of issues that the consumer faces in today's challenging and complex insurance world. To learn more about Medical Reimbursement Resource LLC, call 1-713-526-0955 or log onto www.mrrmedical.com today.

Press Contact: Philip O'Hara
Company Name: Medical Reimbursement Resource LLC
Texas Phone: 713-526-0955
Website: www.mrrmedical.com

Government Rejects Request to Clean up Asbestos

noreply@blogger.com ((hris) — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 22:05:00 +0000

LegalView Reports About the Government's Rejection of a Monetary Request to Clean up An Asbestos-Tainted Site

LegalView updated its mesothelioma blog to include news of the government denying federal funds to an area in Arkansas that was left tainted with asbestos after nearly 150 World War II structures were destroyed in a fire. The government rejected the requests from the town of Chaffee Crossing where citizens are currently at risk of contracting mesothelioma cancer.

Denver, CO - LegalView.com, the number one resource for everything legal on the Web, recently reported on its mesothelioma blog that federal funds were denied to cleanup an asbestos-tainted town in Arkansas. Chaffee Crossing is the site of a recent fire, which destroyed nearly 150 World War II (WWII) structures, releasing asbestos fibers and dust into the area potentially increasing the risk of citizens developing mesothelioma. The city requested federal funds from the government to assist the cleanup of the town, which is considered by several citizens there to be a Superfund Site. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is refusing to deem the site a Superfund because it claims that levels of asbestos in the air after the fire were too low to be deemed as such. However, the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality found asbestos contamination in some areas to be much higher than EPA tests recorded. For those who live in the area or who have previously been exposed to asbestos, using LegalView's mesothelioma portal to locate a mesothelioma attorney is the best way to protect oneself.

Asbestos is a material that is derived from vermiculate, a mineral often mined for uses in construction and as building insulation. Asbestos was widely used as insulation in many early 20th Century constructions, such as those burned in Chaffee Crossing. However, after discovering the link of inhaling asbestos to an incurable form of lung cancer, the use of asbestos was discontinued and the EPA has spent billions of dollars in the removal of asbestos across the country. Individuals who have been exposed to asbestos are advised to contact an experienced mesothelioma law firm to receive an attorney consultation on developing a mesothelioma lawsuit in which compensatory damages can be sought. Mesothelioma is a painful and deadly illness that takes decades to reveal itself, by which time it can be too late to find ways in paying for medical expenses. Use the mesothelioma portal to learn more about this and other recent asbestos-related news.

Additionally, LegalView offers several other information portals relating to a range of issues such as the Baxter Heparin recall, traumatic brain injury (TBI) treatments and Erb's Palsy jury verdicts. Heparin is a blood thinner injected into patients undergoing heart surgery or similar procedures. It is used to prevent blood clots, which can be fatal during surgery. Recently, the Baxter Healthcare Corporation issued a Heparin recall because several patients had reported severe allergic reactions to the drug, which has been associated with at least 19 patient deaths. LegalView.com reported updates continually to readers as this story unfolded, providing insightful and imperative news for victims of the Heparin recall. Similarly, individuals can use the TBI practice area to learn the most up-to-date news on brain injury lawsuits, jury verdicts, treatments as well as how to locate brain injury lawyers.

For information on Erb's Palsy, a condition that usually develops because of labor complications, visit Erb's Palsy lawsuit as the condition is usually preventable and caused by a physician pulling on a baby during birth.

About LegalView:
LegalView.com is a public service brought to you by Legal WebTV Network, LLC, a Limited Liability Corporation created by a group of the nation's most highly respected law firms: Anapol Schwartz; Brent Coon and Associates; Burg Simpson; Cohen, Placitella and Roth; James F. Humphreys and Associates; Lopez McHugh; and Thornton and Naumes. For more information on the accomplishments and track records of LegalView.com's superior sponsoring law firms and to get in touch with LegalView attorneys, visit LegalView at www.LegalView.com.

Press Contact: Katie Kelley
Company Name: LegalView
Phone: 720-771-3246
Website: http://mesothelioma.legalview.com

Foundation Funds Follow-up Care in Revolutionary Cancer Vaccine Study

noreply@blogger.com ((hris) — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 17:51:00 +0000

Onyx and Breezy Foundation Funds Follow-up Care in Revolutionary Cancer Vaccine Study

The Onyx & Breezy Foundation recently funded after-care for dogs engaged in a revolutionary research study to develop a cancer vaccine that may be given to both humans and animals when successful. The study is being conducted at The Matthew J. Ryan Veterinary Hospital, a small animal teaching hospital affiliated with the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia.

Tuxedo Park, NY and Philadelphia, PA - March 14 -- The Onyx & Breezy Foundation has announced a gift to The University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. The gift will cover the expense of follow-up care for 12 dogs that are currently enrolled in the School's cancer vaccine study.

"Thanks to this generous gift, more participants in our lymphoma cancer vaccine clinical trial will be able to return for follow-up care," said Dr. Karin Sorenmo, chief of oncology at the Matthew J. Ryan Veterinary Hospital. "This means that we can capture all the data that is needed for the study while pet owners are helped financially."

Prior gifts to The Matthew J. Ryan Veterinary Hospital from the Foundation have been a respirator for their ICU department and a mast cell tumor research study.

Dr. Sorenmo treated Breezy, who had mast cell tumors. "Thanks to Dr. Sorenmo, Breezy lived another 2 years, of quality life, after other vets gave her only 6 weeks to live," said Wanda Shefts. "We are glad that this project will help owners of dogs in remission from lymphoma and help advance Dr. Sorenmo's work on the cancer vaccine.

Dr. Sorenmo stated that she was encouraged by the results and she is hoping that this is just the beginning of more trials that can benefit dogs and ultimately help people. Thanks to this study, a number of the participating dogs are now cancer free. The researchers now estimate that they are within two years of testing the vaccine on humans. Without the dogs, they would be more than a decade away.

"We have a tremendous amount of respect for the work they do at the Hospital and we are glad to be able to fund another project for them", said Mark Shefts.

For more information about Penn Vet, please visit www.vet.upenn.edu; for more information about The Onyx and Breezy Foundation, please visit www.onyxandbreezy.org.

The Onyx and Breezy Foundation Background

The Foundation was created in 2004 and named after the trustees Mark & Wanda Shefts' two Labrador Retrievers. The Foundation lends financial support to organizations that benefit the welfare of animals.

The University Of Pennsylvania School Of Veterinary Medicine Background

Penn's School of Veterinary Medicine is one of the world's premier veterinary schools. Founded in 1884, the School was built on the concept of Many Species, One MedicineTM. The birthplace of veterinary specialties, the School serves a distinctly diverse array of animal patients, from pets to horses to farm animals.

Press Contact: Barbara Kauffman
Company Name: The Onyx & Breezy Foundation
Phone: 201-782-7400
Website: www.onyxandbreezy.org

New, Flexible Individual Health Insurance Plans

noreply@blogger.com ((hris) — Sun, 13 Jul 2008 06:01:00 +0000

HumanaOne Introduces New, Flexible Individual Health Insurance Plans in Nine States

Individual insurance plans from HumanaOne meet a wide range of consumer needs.

Louisville, KY  - March 11 -- Humana (NYSE: HUM) today announced the introduction of a new portfolio of individual health insurance plans under its HumanaOne® brand in nine states -- Alabama, Arkansas, Iowa, Indiana, Mississippi, Nebraska, Oklahoma, South Carolina and Utah. In 2007, Humana introduced the individual health insurance coverage options in 15 other states (listed below), where they have been popular with consumers.

The variety of plans makes it easy for individuals and families to select a plan according to their own personal preferences, lifestyles and budgets. HumanaOne plans are designed specifically for self-employed entrepreneurs, small-business employees, part-time workers, students and early retirees. Humana markets HumanaOne plans through insurance agents and brokers, as well as directly to consumers. Health insurance quote applications for the plans are available online or by phone.

HumanaOne's new personal health insurance plan portfolio includes a broad spectrum of benefits -- with three in-network coinsurance levels and 17 annual deductible choices -- organized into three, distinct packages, for:

    People who are security-minded and want benefits like those provided by big employers
    People who want flexibility to fit their financial plan, including HSA-qualified offerings
    People who want a low-cost plan with a safety net "just in case"

The plans can be further customized with optional benefits such as dental insurance, life insurance, and supplemental accident coverage.

"With the U.S. market for individual health insurance at 18 million and growing, we recognize that individual health insurance plans cannot be 'one size fits all,'" said Jerry Ganoni, president of HumanaOne, Humana Small Business and HumanaDental. "That's why we created three separate families of plans, each tailored for a particular kind of consumer, but at the same time highly customizable. This represents the most significant product expansion for HumanaOne since its inception in 2002."

In 2007, Humana launched the new products in 15 other states -- Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee, Texas and Wisconsin. Soon, the company plans to introduce the new product portfolio in the remaining two states where HumanaOne currently operates. At present, HumanaOne serves more than 250,000 health plan members in 26 states.

The new plans from HumanaOne are designed to appeal to a variety of consumers -- from those who desire the security, coverage and service commonly found in health plans from large employers, to those wanting a simple safety net in the event of a major health problem.

The new portfolio of HumanaOne plans offers deductibles ranging from $1,000 to $7,500 for single coverage, and from $2,000 to $15,000 for family coverage. Premiums start as low as $30 per month for single coverage and increase according to the plan, its features and level of benefits.

"This new portfolio of products positions HumanaOne to serve a much larger portion of the individual health insurance market, which we believe will continue to grow at a rate of five to eight percent annually over the next five years," said Steve DeRaleau, chief operating officer of HumanaOne. "As more people leave group health plans, retire early, become self-employed or work part-time, they will increasingly look to individual health plans, and HumanaOne will be there to serve them with a plan ideally suited to their distinct needs."

Humana guarantees monthly premium rates on its HumanaOne plans for one full year after purchase, as long as the member remains in the same area and keeps the same benefits. Thanks to Humana's large network of doctors and hospitals, HumanaOne policyholders who move to a different state can simply take their plan with them, and in most cases, those who work or travel away from home can receive in-network benefits by seeing any of the more than 400,000 Humana-contracted doctors, hospitals and other health care providers across the country.

HumanaOne members have 24-hour access to online tools and resources, enabling them to check claims status, medical expenses, compare hospital, doctor and prescription costs and more. HumanaOne accepts applications by phone or via its Website at http://www.humana-one.com/.

About Humana

Humana Inc., headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, is one of the nation's largest publicly traded health and supplemental benefits companies, with approximately 11.5 million medical members. Humana is a full-service benefits solutions company, offering a wide array of health and supplementary benefit plans for employer groups, government programs and individuals.

Over its 47-year history, Humana has consistently seized opportunities to meet changing customer needs. Today, the company is a leader in consumer engagement, providing guidance that leads to lower costs and a better health plan experience throughout its diversified customer portfolio.

More information regarding Humana is available to investors via the Investor Relations page of the company's web site at Humana.com, including copies of:
    Annual reports to stockholders
    Securities and Exchange Commission filings
    Most recent investor conference presentations
    Quarterly earnings news releases
    Replays of most recent earnings release conference calls
    Calendar of events (includes upcoming earnings conference call dates and times, as well as planned interaction with research analysts and institutional investors)
    Corporate Governance Information

Press Contact: Jim Turner
Company Name: HumanaOne
Phone: 502-476-2119
Website: http://www.humana-one.com/

Baxter Heparin Information on Additional Heparin Recall

noreply@blogger.com ((hris) — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 15:32:00 +0000

LegalView Expands Baxter Heparin Information Portal to Include Information on an Additional Heparin Recall

LegalView updated its Baxter Heparin information portal to add information on the most recent recall of the blood-thinning drug. Heparin, which is used to control blood during surgical procedures, was recently discovered to have a Heparin-like contaminant that sickened many and caused at least 19 deaths.

Denver, CO - March 31, 2008 -- The Baxter Heparin practice area on LegalView's site, the source for everything legal on the Web, was recently expanded to explain details of an additional Heparin recall . Heparin has been linked to hundreds of allergic reactions among patients as well as having been connected with 19 deaths. B. Braun Medical Inc. issued the most recent recall of Heparin, which was supplied from Scientific Protein Laboratories - the same company that supplied Baxter Healthcare Corporation with the contaminated Baxter Heparin. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and B. Braun Medical Inc., no one was reportedly sickened off of the Heparin from B. Braun Medical but it did have a "heparin-like contaminant," which was enough for the company to recall the drug.

Heparin is blood-thinner injected into patients who are undergoing surgical procedures such as heart disease or kidney dialysis. It is a drug that has been imported to the United States since the 1930s and is derived from pig intestines. Many surgeons find that Heparin is an extremely important drug because it prevents blood clots from forming during surgery, which can result in death among patients. However, earlier this year, a rash of individuals who had been given Heparin during a surgical procedure had allergic reactions. Individuals who have been affected by the contaminated Heparin should consider contacting a Heparin lawyer to learn about developing a Heparin class action lawsuit for which compensation may be derived from manufacturers if the tainted drug.

The Baxter Heparin that was initially recalled had been tainted with a chemical known as over-sulfated chondroitin sulfate. Through an FDA investigation, it was discovered that a Chinese company that produces the drug was responsible for the tainted Heparin. Although an investigation continues to be ongoing as to whether the chemical was intentionally or accidentally introduced into a batch of the Heparin. According to news reports, using the over-sulfated chondroitin sulfate allows for a reduction in the production of production for Heparin.

For information on additionally recalled prescription drugs or to report an adverse reaction to a prescribed drug, visit LegalView's many unsafe drugs information portals. Here, readers will find information on recently recalled drugs as well as prescription drugs under investigation such as Chantix, Avandia and Trasylol Aprotinin.

Chantix is a smoking cessation drug from Pfizer that was first introduced to the market, with FDA approval, in mid-2006. However, in late-2007 the FDA began an investigation into nearly 400 reports of suicidal tendencies and behaviors among patients. Additionally, nearly 37 suicides have been associated with the Chantix side effects, which include psychotic episodes, depression, suicidal thoughts and erratic behavior.

Avandia is a prescription drug used to treat diabetes 2 among patients; however, the drug has been linked to several serious side effects including an increased risk of heart disease and a higher chance of early onset osteoporosis. Individuals who are taking Avandia are advised to locate an experienced pharmaceutical law firm to receive consultation on an Avandia lawsuit.

Trasylol, also known as its generic version Aprotinin, is similar to Heparin in that it is used during surgical procedures to control blood loss. A study was released in 2006 from the New England Journal of Medicine, which found that the use of Trasylol Aprotinin increased the chances of a patient developing heart disease, kidney disease, stroke and death. Patients who received or may have received Trasylol or it's generic version should use LegalView's information portal to find an Trasylol attorney.

About LegalView:
LegalView.com is a public service brought to you by Legal WebTV Network, LLC, a Limited Liability Corporation created by a group of the nation's most highly respected law firms: Anapol Schwartz; Brent Coon and Associates; Burg Simpson; Cohen, Placitella and Roth; James F. Humphreys and Associates; Lopez McHugh; and Thornton and Naumes. For more information on the accomplishments and track records of LegalView.com's superior sponsoring law firms and to get in touch with LegalView attorneys, visit LegalView at www.LegalView.com.

Press Contact: Katie Kelley
Company Name: LegalView
Phone: 720-771-3246
Website: http://baxter-heparin.legalview.com

Eating Between The Lines

noreply@blogger.com ((hris) — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 01:34:00 +0000

A Health Diary and Food Journal for the Rest of Us

For women who would like to keep a food diary, exercise log and health journal in two minutes a day or less. The Bio-Diary for Women by FitMinder is an easy-to-use alternative to food and exercise journals that require tedious daily entries. Its unique format offers and useful and beautiful tool to record and analyze health information.

Sacramento, CA, June 25, 2008 -- Keeping a food diary or health journal is highly recommended these days as a way to manage diet and health. But many people are put off by the thought of recording every bite they eat. They are too busy living their lives to spend the day recording it. Now there's an alternative for people who want to track diet, exercise, and health issues, without the tedious detail.

Most food journals and exercise logs are designed for people who are committed to detailed daily tracking of their progress. But what about people who can't commit to that level, but still want the usefulness of a food diary, exercise log, and health journal -- for things like illnesses, medications, sleep problems, allergies, stress, energy level and other health issues? And what if the most time they could commit was a couple of minutes, once a day?

Marie Karner, a Sacramento business owner, has been keeping a health journal for six years, and has designed a simple and effective tool for women who only have time for the big picture. For those whose life speedometer runs in weeks or months -- not hours or days, the Bio-Diary's "quick-scan" format helps manage health info and keep goals in sight.

The Bio-Diary for WomenT uses a simple monthly log book format with columns, and tracks one month at a time, using eight different pages. Two minutes is about all it takes to jot down one day's worth of meals, exercise, health symptoms and other info. The format is flexible and can be customized to suit different needs. Because it provides a snapshot view of months at a glance, it is particularly useful in identifying cause-and-effect relationships, and analyzing patterns and trends. Each month features a diary page for moments when a minute or two of writing is not only therapeutic, but useful as well.

The Bio-Diary for WomenT is available online at Amazon and also at FitMinder Publishing's website at fitminder.com.

Contact Information
FitMinder Publishing
Marie Karner
916-635-0511
mariek@fitminder.com
www.fitminder.com

Asbestos Contaminated Housing Project Crews Hid Asbestos Leak

noreply@blogger.com ((hris) — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 02:13:00 +0000

LegalView Releases News on Asbestos Contaminated Housing Project Where Crews Hid Asbestos Leak with Dirt

LegalView reported on its mesothelioma blog about an asbestos contamination that occurred in Miami during the construction of an affordable housing project. The project, now likely to cost five times the original estimate, was contaminated after crews clearing the area hid an asbestos leak with piles of dirt.

Denver, CO - April 12 -- LegalView.com updated its mesothelioma blog with reports of an asbestos contamination that was concealed with piles of dirt by construction crews who were clearing the area for an affordable housing project. The contamination not only increased the risk of exposure to asbestos and thus development of mesothelioma for individuals in the area, but increased the cost of the affordable housing project by five times the originally estimated amount. Individuals living in the area may have been exposed to asbestos fibers and are urged to contact a medical professional as soon as possible. Additionally, Americans who may have been exposed to asbestos should also contact an experienced mesothelioma law firm.

Asbestos is derived vermiculite, a mineral that was heavily mined in the 20th Century. Asbestos was prized for its ability to insulate buildings with a decreased risk of catching fire. It was used for all types of constructions including schools, offices, homes and apartment buildings. However, after discovering that asbestos exposure caused a deadly lung disease among exposed individuals, mining stopped and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was charged with the task of cleaning up any asbestos. Mesothelioma cancer, which is an untreatable form of lung cancer, is often the outcome for individuals who were previously exposed to asbestos. Those who feel they are at risk for this illness should locate an attorney to explore the possibility of a mesothelioma lawsuit.

The area known as North Miami's Pioneer Gardens was expected to house 136 units for low-income individuals. However, when a contractor began digging, it was discovered that workers who had previously cleared the site had inadvertently caused an asbestos leak when underground pipes containing the contaminant were broken. The workers allegedly covered the leak with piles of dirt and it was left until just recently when digging began. It can take years to develop the cancer and even then a mesothelioma diagnosis is often overlooked, causing the cancer to spread among its victim. To learn about the potential for monetary compensation, individuals are advised to contact an experienced mesothelioma lawyer for an attorney consultation on their individual case.

Other issues that are covered on LegalView's Web site, which have largely negatively impacted thousands of Americans recently, include several prescription drugs - Chantix, Singulair, as well as Vytorin and Zetia. Chantix is a smoking cessation drug that is prescribed to millions of Americans struggling to quit their tobacco addiction. In late 2007, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) began receiving reports from patients taking Chantix that the drug was linked with instances of depression, erratic behavior and suicidal tendencies and thoughts. Overall, nearly 400 individuals reported this behavior and the drug was also allegedly linked to 37 suicides among patients. The FDA quickly began investigating the drug and are currently studying the Chantix side effects to determine the drug's dangers.

Similar to the dangerous side effects that have been associated with Chantix, are those that have been linked to Singulair, also a prescription drug, which is given to patients who suffer from severe asthma and allergy symptoms. However, in March 2008, reports began to surface about Singulair's potentially dangerous side effects, which may include mood and behavior changes including suicidal behavior among adults and children. The FDA is currently investigating the Singulair risks that may exist with taking this drug.

Vytorin and Zetia are similar in that both are prescription drugs used to lower cholesterol and prevent heart disease among patients. Often Vytorin and Zetia are used in combination of each other and both are manufactured from Merck/Shering-Plough. Recently, the company made headlines because of an extensive study that was completed in 2006 on the two drugs, which detailed the benefits, or lack thereof, of the medications. However, the Zetia and Vytorin manufacturer allegedly delayed the release of the study to the public because findings that Vytorin and Zetia were not as effective as cheaper alternatives. This information has prompted many patients to consider a Vytorin lawsuit.

About LegalView:

LegalView.com is a public service brought to you by Legal WebTV Network, LLC, a Limited Liability Corporation created by a group of the nation's most highly respected law firms: Anapol Schwartz; Brent Coon and Associates; Burg Simpson; Cohen, Placitella and Roth; James F. Humphreys and Associates; Lopez McHugh; and Thornton and Naumes. For more information on the accomplishments and track records of LegalView.com's superior sponsoring law firms and to get in touch with LegalView attorneys, visit LegalView at www.LegalView.com.

Press Contact: Katie Kelley
Company Name: LegalView
Phone: 720-771-3246
Website: http://mesothelioma.legalview.com

UnitedHealth Group Inc.'s Earnings Guidance and Settlements Generates Comments

noreply@blogger.com ((hris) — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 17:25:00 +0000

A.M. Best Comments on UnitedHealth Group Inc.'s Earnings Guidance and Settlements

OLDWICK, N.J.-- July 03, 2008 --A.M. Best Co. has commented that the ratings of UnitedHealth Group Inc. (UnitedHealth) (Minnetonka, MN) (NYSE: UNH) and its subsidiaries remain unchanged following the company's release of a revision to earnings guidance and reduced second quarter and full year 2008 earnings. UnitedHealth also announced a settlement in the federal securities class action and Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) lawsuits.

On July 2, 2008, UnitedHealth announced a revision to its earnings outlook for 2008 following an assessment of preliminary second quarter 2008 results and recent business trends. The company's risk-based commercial business produced a lower level of gross margin than expected due to increased pressure on premium yields, which are resulting from a competitive commercial business environment. Furthermore, UnitedHealth is experiencing a decrease in the gross margin for Medicare Part D and Medicare Chronic Special Needs Plans.

Additionally, UnitedHealth announced that it had reached an agreement to settle both the federal securities class action and ERISA lawsuits. Both lawsuits arose from UnitedHealth's historical stock option practices. As a result of the settlements, UnitedHealth will pay $895 million pre-tax into a settlement fund for the benefit of class members of the federal securities class action lawsuit and $17 million into a settlement fund for the benefit of ERISA class members. UnitedHealth's insurance carriers will cover the majority of the ERISA settlement.

A.M. Best expects UnitedHealth to continue to experience pressure in the commercial market, which may result in lower margins. The result of these announcements and the subsequent payment for the settlements are expected to increase UnitedHealth's debt-to-capital ratio above 40%, should the company use debt for the payment. While A.M. Best is not comfortable with an increase in the debt-to-capital ratio above 40%, A.M. Best expects the ratio to remain less than 45% and for this ratio to return to 40%by second quarter 2009. A.M. Best also expects UnitedHealth's earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) interest coverage to remain at 10 times or greater. Additionally, A.M. Best would like UnitedHealth to scale back its share repurchase program until the debt-to-capital ratio decreases to 40%.

On January 29, 2008, A.M. Best issued a press release announcing a downgrade to the ratings of UnitedHealth Group and select subsidiaries. At that time, A.M. Best considered the change in the company's capital structure and increase in debt-to-capital ratio in the rating action.

If UnitedHealth's debt-to-capital ratio increases above 45% or if the company announces another negative revision to earnings (including any additional settlements or fines), a negative rating action may occur. Additionally, A.M. Best would take into consideration the magnitude of the amount of any settlement or fine in any rating action. A.M. Best will continue to monitor the financial results and risk-based capitalization of UnitedHealth and its insurance subsidiaries, as well as continue its ongoing dialogue with company management.

Founded in 1899, A.M. Best Company is a global full-service credit rating organization dedicated to serving the financial and health care service industries, including insurance companies, banks, hospitals and health care system providers. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

Contacts

A.M. Best Co.
Analysts:
Sally Rosen, 908-439-2200, ext. 5280
sally.rosen@ambest.com
or
Kenneth Frino, 908-439-2200, ext. 5012
kenneth.frino@ambest.com
or
Public Relations:
Jim Peavy, 908-439-2200, ext. 5644
james.peavy@ambest.com
or
Rachelle Morrow, 908-439-2200, ext. 5378
rachelle.morrow@ambest.com

Sterilisation and Disinfectant Markets in Europe

noreply@blogger.com ((hris) — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 17:42:00 +0000

Sterilisation and Disinfectant Markets in Europe Enjoy Mixed Fortunes

LONDON-- July 01, 2008 --The sterilisation and disinfectant market in Europe has been witnessing slow growth as hospitals try to tackle alarmingly high infection rates resulting from inadequately decontaminated patient care equipment. However, the market is mature and saturated, offering little scope for technological innovation, and the complete lack of product differentiation is hampering competition. While the disinfection market has shown potential for expansion, the sterilisation market remains largely static.

New analysis from Frost & Sullivan (http://www.medicaldevices.frost.com), European Sterilisation and Disinfection Equipment Market, finds that the market earned revenues of over USD269.7 million in 2007 and estimates this to reach USD352.0 million in 2014.

"Though the sterilisation and disinfection equipment market is not characterised by a strong level of technological development, certain mutations are contributing to the overall positive growth," says Frost & Sullivan Research Analyst Kieu A. Vuong. "For instance, slack growth in the low-temperature gas steriliser segments is compensated by positive trends impacting the disinfector equipment sector."

The spurt in the number of surgical procedures utilising minimally invasive instruments such as endoscopes is also driving the need for sophisticated systems for proper disinfection and maintenance of such equipment. This demand for more efficient disinfecting methods is fuelling the growth of the automatic endoscope reprocessor (AER) segment. The washers and AER disinfection markets are exhibiting continuous growth due to advancements in surgical instrumentation and liquid chemical disinfectants as well.

However, emerging trends indicate increasing consolidation and centralisation of hospitals in Europe, drastically reducing the number of hospitals and the number of potential customers. End-user consolidation is a challenge for this market, as purchasing power is augmented.

"High prices along with slow rate of product replacement will force manufacturers to identify different revenue streams in order to maintain and increase their profit margins," notes Vuong. "Despite several attempts at creating a unified platform, insecurities concerning the standardisation and regulation of products continue."

Nonetheless, participants can accrue revenues by providing integrated service packages and proper nurturing of customer relationships, since virtually all hospitals are already equipped with infection control equipment. To achieve the high standards required for service packages, many companies have entered into partnerships to reduce costs and enhance their offering.

If you are interested in a virtual brochure, which provides manufacturers, end users and other industry participants with an overview of the European sterilisation and disinfection equipment market, then send an e-mail to Patrick Cairns, Corporate Communications, at pcairns_pr@frost.com, with your full name, company name, title, telephone number, company e-mail address, company website, city, state and country. Upon receipt of the above information, an overview will be sent to you by e-mail.

European Sterilisation and Disinfection Equipment Market is part of the Medical Devices Growth Partnership Service programme, which also includes research in the following markets: cardiovascular, wound care, surgical, orthopaedic and others. All research services included in subscriptions provide detailed market opportunities and industry trends that have been evaluated following extensive interviews with market participants. Interviews with the press are available.

Frost & Sullivan, the Growth Partnership Company, partners with clients to accelerate their growth. The company's TEAM Research, Growth Consulting and Growth Team MembershipT empower clients to create a growth-focused culture that generates, evaluates and implements effective growth strategies. Frost & Sullivan employs over 45 years of experience in partnering with Global 1000 companies, emerging businesses and the investment community from more than 30 offices on six continents. For more information about Frost & Sullivan's Growth Partnerships, visit http://www.frost.com.

European Sterilisation and Disinfection Equipment Market

M236

Contacts

Frost & Sullivan
Corporate Communications - Europe & Africa
Patrick Cairns, +27 18 468 2315
patrick.cairns@frost.com
or
Corporate Communications - North America
Stacie Kopecki, 210-247-2450
fax: 210-348-1003
stacie.kopecki@frost.com
or
Corporate Communications - Asia Pacific
Jasminder Kaur, 65-6890-0937
fax: 65-6890-0988
jkaur@frost.com
or
Corporate Communications - South Asia
Remi Chatterjee, +91-44-4001 3419
fax: +91-22-2832 4713
remi.chaterjee@frost.com
or
Corporate Communications - Middle East
Nimisha Iyer, +91 22 4001 3404
fax: +91 22 2832 4713
niyer@frost.com
or
Corporate Communications - China
Amelia Wong, +86 21 5407 5783, ext. 8669
cell: +86 13621724823
amelia.wong@frost.com
or
Corporate Communications - Latin America
José María Jantus, + 54-11-4777-9951
fax: + 54-11-4777-0071
jose.jantus@frost.com
http://www.frost.com

New Patient Safety Solution Supported By Pharmacy Technician Certification Board

noreply@blogger.com ((hris) — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 02:14:00 +0000

Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) Supports Florida's New Patient Safety Solution

The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), the leading national program that has certified more than 300,000 pharmacy technicians, supports and congratulates the Florida House of Representatives and Governor Charlie Crist for passing legislation requiring new standards for pharmacy technicians. The new Florida legislation takes a progressive step toward increasing patient safety for consumers. The legislation will ensure pharmacy technicians meet key requirements for training, certification and registration.

Washington, D.C. - June 27, 2008 -- The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) (http://www.ptcb.org/), the leading national program that has certified more than 300,000 pharmacy technicians, is pleased to support and congratulate the Florida Legislature for passing SB 1360 and Governor Charlie Crist for signing it into law, requiring new standards for pharmacy technicians. Tireless advocacy efforts for the passage of this critical patient safety legislation and its final approval by Governor Crist were spearheaded by the Florida Society of Health-System Pharmacists (FSHP) and the Florida Pharmacy Association (FPA).

The new Florida legislation takes a progressive step toward increasing patient safety for consumers. By passing this legislation without amendment, and signing it into law, the Florida state legislature and governor will ensure pharmacy technicians meet key requirements for training, certification and registration. PTCB is proud to have certified 15,000 pharmacy technicians in Florida to date and looks forward to working with more pharmacy technicians and their employers.

"Florida's new pharmacy technician standards are an important patient safety solution for consumers in the Sunshine State and Governor Crist and the state's legislators should be applauded," said PTCB Executive Director and CEO Melissa Murer Corrigan. "To meet these new state standards, PTCB is looking forward to continued work with pharmacy technicians and significant employers of Florida's pharmacy technicians such as Walgreen's, CVS, Publix, Target, the U.S. military, multiple health-systems and independent pharmacists in communities across the state. Several of these employers presently support and endorse PTCB across the United States."

The landmark piece of Florida legislation (SB 1360) contributes to raising the bar for states across the country by providing an example of the high standards needed for pharmacy technicians. The more than 40,000 pharmacy technicians currently working in Florida will be required to register with the Florida Board of Pharmacy by 2010. In 2011, they will need to either complete a board-approved training program with 1,500 hours of work as a technician under a Florida licensed pharmacist, or be certified (https://www.ptcb.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=Guidebook_to_Certification&Template=/CM/HTMLDisplay.cfm&ContentID=2952) by a program accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). PTCB is the pioneer in certifying pharmacy technicians (https://www.ptcb.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=Learn&Template=/CM/ContentDisplay.cfm&ContentID=1384) and is accredited by the NCCA. PTCB's certification program has been included in regulations by more than 30 state boards of pharmacy. Through its strategic partnership with Pearson VUE, PTCB is able to offer highly scalable computer-based testing through the world's largest network of testing centers.

Studies show without a doubt that Americans support a standard of excellence for pharmacy technicians. A recent poll commissioned by PTCB confirms that 91% of American consumers support strong regulations across the country to protect patient safety by requiring that pharmacy technicians are trained and certified. While states like Florida reflect this growing need for action, almost twenty other states still have no requirement for certification. Clearly, consumers are relying on state boards of pharmacy to protect them and enact strong requirements such as Florida's for pharmacy technicians.

About the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) (http://www.ptcb.org/)

PTCB was established in January 1995 and is governed by five pharmacy organizations - the American Pharmacists Association (APhA), the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), the Illinois Council of Health-System Pharmacists (ICHP), the Michigan Pharmacists Association (MPA) and the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP). Since PTCB's inception, PTCB has certified over 300,000 pharmacy technicians through the examination and transfer process. PTCB's certification program is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). The goal of the PTCB national certification program is to enable pharmacy technicians to work more effectively with pharmacists to offer safe and effective patient care and service. PTCB contracts with Pearson VUE, the industry's technology leader, as its computer-based testing vendor. PTCB draws upon the experience and expertise of its 13-year partner, Professional Examination Service (PES) for test development.

Contact Information
Mark Franco
The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board
http://www.ptcb.org
202-429-7508
202-828-9767

Suboxone Treatment Program Launched

noreply@blogger.com ((hris) — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 01:51:00 +0000

InterventionTreatment.com Launches Suboxone Treatment Program

LOS ANGELES-- June 27, 2008 --Intervention Treatment announced today that it has launched a suboxone treatment program. The program will be used to increase Intervention Treatment's Global mission of providing Intervention and Treatment resources to those affected by alcohol and drug addiction. According to Dr. Jason Schiffman, Chief Medical Officer for Intervention Treatment, "There is a large, poorly met demand for outpatient, office-based treatment of opiate dependence and the addition of the suboxone treatment program to Intervention Treatment's array of alcohol and drug addiction related services will be a great tool for patients and their families."

Intervention Treatment is currently one of the fastest growing online resources for those affected by drug and alcohol addiction. The new Suboxone Treatment program is designed to help those affected by opiate addiction.

About Suboxone:

Suboxone is the first drug approved by the FDA for opiate dependence treatment in office based settings. This means that patients addicted to opiates may now choose to receive opiate-based treatment as an outpatient instead of in a hospital setting. Patients are evaluated and treated during office visits and receive a prescription for suboxone which they may fill at any pharmacy. Suboxone is comprised of two separate medications: buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine is a partial opiate agonist, meaning its opiate effects are significantly reduced compared to that of full opiate agonists, such as vicodin or heroin. The naloxone in suboxone is not appreciably absorbed from the digestive track when suboxone is taken orally and is in place to prevent the misuse of suboxone by injection drug users. The combination of these two medications leads to suboxone's effectiveness in treating opiate dependence.

About Suboxone Treatment:

Suboxone treatment differs significantly from standard opiate dependence treatment programs. Traditionally, opiate addicts undergoing medical detoxification have been administered either methadone or a combination of drugs, each targeting a symptom of withdrawal. The latter approach usually must take place in an inpatient setting in order to be done safely, while methadone treatment requires a patient to visit a clinic on a daily basis to receive a prescribed dose. Suboxone treatment differs from these treatments in several important ways. Firstly, a prescription for suboxone can be obtained at a specially licensed physician's office and filled at any pharmacy. This means the patient does not need to be admitted to a hospital or make daily visits to a methadone clinic in order to receive their medication. Secondly, because suboxone is a mixture of naloxone and buprenorphine, a partial opiate agonist with a long duration of action, the potential for abuse and overdose are much less than with methadone. Thirdly, because buprenorphine is a partial opiate agonist, suboxone may be easier to taper off of than full opiate agonists like methadone.

About Intervention Treatment

Intervention Treatment, formed in 2007, is an internet resource offering help to those affected by drug and alcohol addiction. Intervention Treatment provides referrals to drug and alcohol rehabs, intervention services, suboxone treatment referrals, and general information regarding addiction and treatment.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains statements that may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Those statements include statements regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of the Company, and members of their management as well as the assumptions on which such statements are based. Prospective investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, and that actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements. Important factors currently known to management that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-statements include fluctuation of operating results, the ability to compete successfully and the ability to complete before-mentioned transactions. The company undertakes no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events or changes to future operating results.
Contacts

Intervention Treatment
William Donovan, Co-Founder, 949-267-4113
bj@interventiontreatment.com
www.interventiontreatment.com

Physician Practice Documentation Receives CCHIT Certification

noreply@blogger.com ((hris) — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 20:05:00 +0000

Dairyland Healthcare Solutions' Physician Practice Documentation Receives 2007 CCHIT Certification

Software Complies with 100 Percent of Updated 2007 Certification Criteria

GLENWOOD, Minn.-- June 18, 2008 --The Certification Commission for Healthcare Information Technology (CCHIT®) today announced that Dairyland Healthcare Solutions' Physician Practice Documentation (PPD), Version 9.0.0 is CCHIT Certified®, and meets the Commission's ambulatory electronic health record (EHR) criteria for 2007. Ambulatory EHRs are designed for physician offices and clinics where most Americans get their healthcare. CCHIT - an independent, nonprofit organization - is the Recognized Certification Body in the United States for certifying health information technology products.

In the second year of the program's operation, the criteria and testing have been significantly enhanced. The Commission added 96 criteria to the 151 original requirements from last year. As a CCHIT Certified product has been tested and passed inspection of 100 percent of a set of updated criteria for functionality, interoperability and security.

"For 2007, the Commission raised the bar from the previous year's criteria. Ambulatory EHRs now must include electronic prescribing, demonstrate an ability to receive lab results, and show enhanced patient safety, quality, and security features," said Mark Leavitt, M.D., Ph.D., chair, CCHIT. "Investment in 2007 certified ambulatory EHRs gives providers even more powerful tools to improve quality, safety and efficiency while protecting the privacy of health information."

The CCHIT Certified mark - a "seal of approval" for EHR products - provides the first consensus-based, government-recognized benchmark for ambulatory EHR products. By looking to products with the CCHIT Certified seal, physicians and other providers can reduce their risk in selecting an EHR product, allowing them to focus their evaluation on the special needs of their practices.

"We are delighted to receive CCHIT certification," said James Burgess, CEO of Dairyland. "The CCHIT review process is rigorous and essential to ensuring that technologies carrying this important certification meet the highest safety and quality standards. We are pleased that CCHIT recognizes Dairyland's high standards," he added.

CCHIT's certification compliance criteria and its design for a certification inspection process have been thoroughly researched, taking into account the state of the art of EHRs and available standards, and comparing certification processes in other industries and other countries. The inspection process is based on real-life medical scenarios designed to test products rigorously against the clinical needs of providers and the quality and safety needs of healthcare consumers and payers. One script, for example, recreates a scenario of an elderly man with poorly controlled diabetes, hypertension and other chronic conditions in order to test EHR functions such as potential adverse drug reactions, disease management and treatment plans.

About Dairyland Healthcare Solutions

Dairyland Healthcare Solutions is an award-winning healthcare information systems company that links essential information between small community hospitals and their healthcare delivery and business networks. Dairyland enables its hospital partners to deliver the highest level of patient care by providing the information infrastructure required to operate effectively in the dynamic and complex healthcare delivery environment. For almost three decades, Dairyland has partnered with leading community hospitals to help them improve efficiencies, enhance profitability and ensure patient safety by providing solutions to manage, integrate and access key financial, clinical and patient information. Dairyland is the only company to be awarded three consecutive "Best in KLAS" ratings in the Community Hospital Information Systems category. To learn more, visit: http://www.dhsnet.com.

About CCHIT

The Certification Commission for Healthcare Information Technology (CCHIT®) is an independent, nonprofit organization that has been named by the federal government as the Recognized Certification Body for health information technology. Its mission is to accelerate the adoption of health information technology by creating a credible, sustainable certification program. The certification requirements are based on widely accepted industry standards and involve the work of hundreds of expert volunteers and input from a variety of stakeholders throughout the health care industry. More information on CCHIT and CCHIT Certified® products is available at www.cchit.org.

"CCHIT®" and "CCHIT Certified®" are service marks of the Certification Commission for Healthcare Information Technology.

Contacts

Dairyland Healthcare Solutions
Tracey Schroeder, 612-787-3125
VP Marketing & Communications
tracey.schroeder@dhsnet.com
or
CCHIT
Sue Reber, 503-703-0813
sreber@cchit.org

Clinical Trial Findings Show Significant and Persistent Reduction in Blood Pressure

noreply@blogger.com ((hris) — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 14:36:00 +0000

Two-Year Clinical Trial Findings Show Significant and Persistent Reduction in Blood Pressure with CVRx® Rheos® Hypertension Therapy

Data Presented at Hypertension Berlin 2008 Congress; Pivotal Rheos Trial in Progress
Hypertension Berlin 2008

MINNEAPOLIS & BERLIN-- June 18, 2008 --The first available two-year data from the European clinical trial evaluating the Rheos® Hypertension (HT) System were presented today at Hypertension Berlin 2008. Developed by U.S.-based CVRx, Inc., the Rheos HT System is the only implantable medical device designed to control hypertension, or high blood pressure. Worldwide, hypertension is a leading and growing cause of heart and kidney disease, stroke and death. The Rheos HT System could provide a new treatment option for the millions of people who cannot control their hypertension with medications. The device activates the body's own system for regulating blood pressure.

"We are excited to see a sustained reduction in blood pressure after two years of Rheos HT Therapy - a major milestone in the evaluation of our novel treatment approach," said Nadim Yared, CVRx president and chief executive officer. "Hypertension is a complex condition, affecting multiple physiological functions. The early data on improved heart function and preserved kidney function also presented at this conference are encouraging, and we are hopeful Rheos HT Therapy may help prevent serious, costly conditions related to hypertension. Our Rheos Pivotal trial is assessing the safety and clinical efficacy of Rheos HT System and is well underway."

The clinical data from the Device-Based Therapy of Hypertension (DEBuT-HT) study (Abstract No. OS17/3) were presented at Hypertension Berlin 2008, a joint congress held in Berlin of the 18th Scientific Meeting of the European Society of Hypertension and the 22nd Scientific Meeting of the International Society of Hypertension. Of the 45 patients enrolled in this study, 16 patients from four European centers have completed two years of Rheos HT Therapy. Blood pressure measurements were taken in the clinic and after two years showed:

    * Systolic blood pressure was reduced by an average of 35 mmHg (191 mmHg vs.156 mmHg); and
    * Diastolic blood pressure was reduced by an average of 24 mmHg (116 mmHg vs. 92 mmHg).

Similar results were found at three months and one year of Rheos HT Therapy. Patients remained on background medical therapy during the trial. During the two-year study period, the average number of antihypertensive medications remained stable.

A drop in systolic blood pressure of at least 20 mmHg was achieved in 12 of the 16 patients (75 percent). The Rheos implants were well tolerated, and there were no unanticipated adverse events related to the system or procedure. Further information on these study results can be found on the CVRx Web site at www.cvrx.com.

Peter de Leeuw, professor of medicine and hypertension at the University of Maastricht in The Netherlands, is the leading enroller in the DEBuT-HT study. The 16 patients included in the two-year results were from the following clinical trial sites: the University Hospital Maastricht and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands; University Hospital, Inselspital Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Humboldt University Charité Campus Buch, Berlin; and Heart and Diabetes Center North Rhine Westphalia, Bad Oeynhausen, Germany.

Additional Rheos Data Presented at Hypertension 2008

Additional data from the DEBuT-HT study and U.S. Rheos feasibility study were presented in two poster sessions at Hypertension 2008. These studies showed early signs that the Rheos HT System can improve heart function and preserve kidney function.

    * Heart function was notably improved among the 16 patients who completed one year of Rheos HT Therapy (Abstract No. PS33/THU/24). Blood pressure was reduced significantly, and left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) significantly regressed. LVH, a process in which the heart becomes enlarged and does not work efficiently, increases the risk of heart attacks, heart failure and sudden cardiac death and regression of LVH reduces these risks.
    * The University of Maastricht studied the effects of the Rheos HT Therapy on kidney function (Abstract No. PS32/WED/63) among their 12 patients who received therapy for one year. In this group, the Rheos HT Therapy was shown to help preserve kidney function over this time period. High blood pressure increases the risk and progression of kidney disease.

U.S. Rheos Pivotal Trial in Progress

CVRx received investigational device exemption (IDE) approval from the FDA to begin the Rheos Pivotal Trial to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the Rheos HT System. The trial is enrolling 300 patients at multiple clinical sites in the United States and in Europe. Prospective patients can call (888) 8BP-RISK (827-7475) or visit www.bloodpressuretrial.com, to learn more about the clinical trial.

The Rheos HT System: Working with the Body's Own Mechanisms

The Rheos HT System uses CVRx patented Baroreflex Activation TherapyT (BATT) technology that is designed to electrically activate the carotid baroceptors, the body's natural blood pressure sensors. When the baroreceptors are activated, signals are sent through neural pathways to the brain and interpreted as a rise in blood pressure. The brain works to counteract this perceived rise in blood pressure by sending signals to other parts of the body (heart, blood vessels and kidneys) to lower high blood pressure.

The Rheos HT System includes the following components:

    * A small pulse generator that is implanted under the collar bone;
    * Two thin lead wires that are implanted at the left and right carotid arteries and connect to the pulse generator; and
    * The Rheos Programmer System, an external device used by doctors to non-invasively regulate the activation energy from the generator to the lead wires.

About Hypertension

Hypertension causes an estimated one in eight deaths worldwide.1 In the United States alone, high blood pressure affects approximately 73 million people.1 Approximately 25 percent of people with hypertension cannot control their high blood pressure, despite the use of multiple medications. 2, 3 Each incremental increase of 20 mmHg in systolic blood pressure or 10 mmHg in diastolic blood pressure above normal levels is associated with a two-fold increase in death rates from stroke, coronary heart disease and other vascular causes.

Editor's Note: Blood pressure is typically recorded as two numbers - the systolic pressure (top number) over the diastolic pressure (bottom number). The systolic pressure is the pressure of blood in the vessels when the heart contracts. Diastolic pressure is the pressure of the blood between heartbeats, when the heart is at rest and is refilling.

About CVRx, Inc.

CVRx, Inc., is a private company founded in 2001 and headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota U.S.A. Its senior management and technical teams have many years of experience commercializing implantable medical devices. For more information, visit www.cvrx.com.

1 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics. American Heart Association - 2008 Update.

2 Lancet 2002;360:1903-1913.

3 JAMA 2003;289:2560-2572.

CAUTION: CVRx Rheos System is an investigational device and is limited by Federal (or United States) law to investigational use only.

CVRx, Rheos, Baroreflex Activation Therapy and BAT are trademarks of CVRx, Inc.

© CVRx, Inc. 2008. All rights reserved.

Contacts

CVRx
John Brintnall, 763-416-2853
Chief Financial Officer
jbrintnall@cvrx.com
or
Mary McGrory-Usset, 651-308-8225
Corporate Communications
mmcgroryusset@comcast.net
or
Padilla Speer Beardsley:
Nancy Johnson, 612-455-1745, 612-812-7568 cell
njohnson@psbpr.com
or
Nick Banovetz, 612-455-1705, 651-815-5999 cell
nbanovetz@psbpr.com

Nursing Home Signs Contract with Patient Placement Systems

noreply@blogger.com ((hris) — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 20:38:00 +0000

Belle Maison Nursing Home Signs Three-Year Contract with Patient Placement Systems

Large Louisiana Nursing Home will use Web-based Referral Management System to optimize and manage patient referral and placement. Patient Placement Systems announced today that Belle Maison Nursing Home, a 179-bed nursing home and retirement care facility in Hammond, Louisiana, has signed a three-year contract to use the Patient Placement Referral Management System.

Atlanta, GA - January 22, 2008 -- Patient Placement Systems announced today that Belle Maison Nursing Home, a 179-bed nursing home and retirement care facility in Hammond, Louisiana, has signed a three-year contract to use the Patient Placement Referral Management System.

The Patient Placement Referral Management System enables nursing homes, home health agencies, hospices, rehabilitation facilities and other extended care organizations to automate the entire referral management process, efficiently tracking and managing all inbound patient referrals, as well as their associated medical records. Automating this traditionally manual and fax-based process gives facilities a unique opportunity to increase patient placements, better serve patients and referring facilities, enhance productivity, and gain data for better decision-making about their referral management process.

Belle Maison Nursing Home, winner of the 2007 Nursing Home Quality Initiative Achievement Award from the Louisiana Health Care Review, constantly seeks ways to improve processes and enhance quality of care. "The Referral Management System will not only help us place more patients, more efficiently; it will also give us a competitive advantage," says Administrator Paul Guitreau. Guitreau indicates that manual referral tracking processes can result in errors, problems and delays. The Referral Management System will enable Belle Maison to respond more quickly to referral sources, enhance staff productivity and have richer data for analysis and decision-making.

"With the Referral Management System, Belle Maison will save significant time and replace multiple manual processes. Furthermore, they'll have a new level of business intelligence regarding referral source, payor mix and other critical data," says Eric Christ, president of Patient Placement Systems. "And because the system was live in less than a week, they'll see benefits very quickly."

The Referral Management System improves visibility and efficiency by capturing all inbound patient referrals and medical documents through a HIPAA-compliant Web-based application, effectively eliminating the need for an admissions team fax machine. The Referral Management System includes reporting and analysis at every level - by location, by referral source, by user, by line of business, by payor, and more.

About Patient Placement Systems:
Patient Placement Systems automates the referral process at continuing care providers, hospitals, and payors. The Patient Placement Referral Management System and Discharge Referral System improve information flow and communication so each party involved in patient referral has the information they need, when they need it. Patient Placement Systems is a member of the Jackson Healthcare Solutions family of companies. For more information about Patient Placement Systems, visit www.PatientPlacement.com or call 877-748-6656.

Press Contact: Monique Ervin
Company Name: Patient Placement Systems
Phone: 877-748-6656
Website: www.PatientPlacement.com

Call for Better Sanitation Prompted By Lettuce E. coli Outbreak

noreply@blogger.com ((hris) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 14:59:00 +0000

E. coli Outbreak Associated with Lettuce Prompts Call for Better Sanitation

MINNEAPOLIS-- June 09, 2008 --According to Pritzker | Ruohonen & Associates, P.A., ten cases of E. coli O157:H7 in the state of Washington have been associated with the consumption of lettuce. Based on interviews of those sickened, health officials believe the source of the outbreak is bagged, commercial romaine lettuce.

Six of the people sickened were Pierce County residents. Five of them had laboratory-confirmed cases of E. coli O157:H7. The sixth person had symptoms identical with those of the other five, but a lab test was not done to confirm E. coli O157:H7. The cases may be associated with a restaurant and an educational institution. Because the outbreak is deemed over, health officials are not releasing the names of either, but Internet accounts of the outbreak indicate that some of those sickened may have eaten salads at Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma.

Four of the people sickened were Thurston County residents. All four had laboratory-confirmed cases of E. coli O157:H7. Three of them attend Capital High School in Olympia and ate salads in the school cafeteria. The fourth person attends Thurgood Marshall Middle School in Olympia and ate a salad there.

"This is yet another example of contaminated lettuce causing illness," stated Pritzker. "At the bottom of every E. coli outbreak is bad sanitation. It is up to the lettuce industry to clean up its act and use good sanitation practices on every farm, every day."

Cattle are the principal source of E. coli O157:H7 infections. Cattle manure containing E. coli O157:H7 can contaminate water that flows through lettuce fields and that is used for irrigation, pesticide application, and/or washing lettuce. Therefore, it is imperative that lettuce not be planted near cattle operations.

In addition, Pritzker and other food safety advocates have been pushing for regulations requiring the lettuce industry to do the following: 1) frequently test irrigation water; 2) frequently test bags of lettuce and salad before they reach the consumer; 3) educate workers throughout the industry about the importance of hand washing and not coming to work if they are sick; 4) and prevent animals, both domestic and wild, from wandering on to lettuce fields.

Because a number of E. coli outbreaks have been linked to bagged lettuce and spinach, federal and state regulators should frequently inspect processing plants.

"The lettuce industry and state and federal governments have to work together to ensure the safety of lettuce. A mother should not have to worry if the salad she is serving her children will make them sick," stated Pritzker.

Pritzker | Ruohonen & Associates, P.A. is one of the few law firms in the United States that practices extensively in the area of foodborne illness litigation. The firm has collected millions of dollars on behalf of victims of E. coli outbreaks. For more information, visit http://www.pritzkerlaw.com or contact Fred Pritzker at (612) 338-0202. Pritzker | Ruohonen has offices are located at Plaza VII, Suite 2950, 45 South Seventh Street, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402

Contacts

Pritzker | Ruohonen & Associates, P.A.
Fred Pritzker, 612-338-0202

Grocery Shopping Network Selected to Increase the Power of Food & Drug Website

noreply@blogger.com ((hris) — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 18:59:00 +0000

Haggen, Inc. Selects Grocery Shopping Network to Increase the Power of Its TOP Food & Drug Website

Grocery Shopping Network Adds TOP Food & Drug stores to its Growing Network of Grocery Stores

MINNEAPOLIS-- June 09, 2008 --Grocery Shopping Network announces that Haggen, Inc., headquartered in Bellingham, Wash., has signed a contract to upgrade its website for its TOP Food & Drug stores with the latest technology available on the web for retail grocery stores, including industry leading personalization.

TOP Food & Drug currently has its weekly flyer online to view. The flyer will soon be upgraded to one-click to shopping list and recipe suggestions, including sale items with Grocery Shopping Network's online tools. Also being added will be an extensive recipe database, coupons, and recipe videos. Integrating all these features will give TOP Food & Drug and its guests a faster and more fun planning experience prior to visiting the grocery store.

CEO Andy Robinson, commented, "Haggen, Inc. will be a great addition to the Grocery Shopping Network, not only because Haggen is a forward-looking company, but because the company will now be able to improve service to its customers on a one-to-one level." Grocery Shopping Network will now have a wonderful presence in the Northwest quadrant of the United States. Andy continued by adding, "We are pleased to see the importance that grocery stores continue to put on the Internet and successfully leveraging the web as a primary communication medium."

About Haggen, Inc.

Haggen, Inc. is a family owned organization headquartered in Washington state since 1933. Today it owns and operates 17 TOP Food & Drug locations in Washington, 15 Haggen Food and Pharmacy locations in Washington and Oregon and a Larry's Market in Washington. The Haggen Corporation employs over 3,900 employees and is listed as one of the largest privately owned companies in Washington state.

About Grocery Shopping Network

Grocery Shopping Network provides grocery retailers' Web sites with a suite of proprietary software products that integrate shopping list building, recipes and meal planning with relevant, focused advertising content. GSN (www.groceryshopping.net) brings together the Web and in-store supermarket shopping experience. A GSN-powered site enables consumers to seamlessly shop their store, be presented with sales and promotions in the context of the items they are planning to purchase, access and save recipes for the items they plan to purchase, plan meals and utilize the many discount offers (including coupons) made available by brand manufacturers.
Contacts

Grocery Shopping Network
Albin Andolshek, 612-238-4942