EIN Presswire: Mesothelioma Press Releases

Drug Ads Often Gloss Over Side Effects, Enlist Doctor Endorsements

Wed, 23 May 2012 07:12:32 +0000

Drug company advertising often downplays side effects. This misleading information can lead to patient injury.

May 23, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Prescription drug advertisements have become ubiquitous in United States' media, including television and magazines. Unfortunately, these ads may be ultimately misleading about potential side effects, placing patients at risk.

How Drug Marketing Campaigns Portray Side Effects

Drug companies use several techniques to downplay the side effects of the potentially dangerous drugs they are advertising.

First, a drug company may enlist a celebrity to endorse its product. For example, the anti-inflammatory drug Enbrel is promoted by professional golfer Phil Mikelson. In these types of advertisements, the side effects of the drugs are disclosed in a quickly delivered voiceover toward the end of the commercial. Other drug advertisements, like those for Celebrex, place a lot of emphasis on the benefits of the drug while downplaying serious side effects like heart attack or stroke.

Another common technique is enlisting the endorsement of an actual physician, who may agree to recommend drugs in exchange for board membership, lectureship and even consulting fees.

Doctors' Drug Endorsements Affect Patient Care

When doctors endorse a drug for money or other personal benefits, however, the exchange can affect the type of care patients receive. An investigation by the New York Times found that a quarter of all doctors accept cash for their endorsement of prescription drugs and a whopping two-thirds accept other compensation, like meals or speaking engagements, for endorsements.

Unfortunately, this type of relationship between physicians and drug companies can affect the medical decisions of the endorsing physicians. Physicians who endorse a certain medication are more likely to prescribe those medications when an alternative treatment would be more medically appropriate. In some instances, the New York Times found that physicians in this situation were more apt to prescribe antipsychotic drugs to children, for whom the drugs are not approved.

Obama's Health Care Law to Provide More Transparency

Fortunately, there are provisions in the new health care bill which will make the relationships between physicians and drug companies more transparent to the public. The law requires drug companies which pay doctors for endorsements for any drug or medical device covered by Medicare or Medicaid to report the relationships to the government. The Obama administration estimates that the law will affect over one thousand drug companies.

When drug companies downplay serious side effects which could cause injury, it leaves them vulnerable to lawsuits claiming they were negligent in their duty to warn against potential side effects. It may also be possible for injured patients to sue if a product is found to be defective. If you have been injured by one of your prescription drugs and feel you did not receive a clear explanation of the drug's potent side effects, please consult an experienced personal injury attorney to explore your legal options.

Article provided by Thomas Q. Keefe, Jr., P.C.

Visit us at http://www.tqkeefe.com/

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Doctor Proposes Information Tech to Reduce Prescription Errors

Tue, 15 May 2012 07:12:56 +0000

A study found that drug-related errors accounted for about a quarter of all preventable patient injuries. The study estimated that between 10 percent and 15 percent of prescriptions contain errors.

MIAMI, FL, May 15, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Many people think medical malpractice consists mainly of sensational cases, like accidentally leaving medical instruments inside a surgery patient. The reality is that medical malpractice often takes a more mundane but equally dangerous form: illegible handwriting on drug prescriptions. For example, pharmacists often misread doctor's handwritten prescriptions and give patients the wrong dosage -- or even the wrong medication -- for their medical problems.

A study of Canadian hospitals found that drug-related errors accounted for about a quarter of all preventable patient injuries. Pharmacists in the study estimated that between 10 percent and 15 percent of prescriptions contain errors.

These prescription drug errors may seem out of place in today's digital age. In addition to illegible handwriting, many prescriptions use confusing trade names for drugs and abbreviations for timing and dosage.

Researchers say that the health care systems of Canada and the U.S. have the least developed information technology for patient record-keeping, prescriptions and other medical tasks. According to Dr. Richard Alvarez, the most significant barrier for electronic record-keeping is not financial costs, but rather the traditional work habits of medical professionals.

Some medical professionals are embracing Dr. Alvarez's efforts to reduce prescription drug errors. By computerizing the process, mistakes caused by poor handwriting, abbreviations and dosage errors could decrease substantially. Computer software could require doctors to double-check orders. A pharmacy would receive a computer printout of prescription information rather than an illegible note. Errors could still happen in manual entry of data, but in far fewer numbers.

Dr. Alvarez argues for the use of information technology across the health care system to allow any medical professionals, including emergency room doctors, to instantly view a patient's medical history for treatment purposes. This technology would allow pharmacists to check whether a doctor's prescription is inconsistent with a patient's other medical conditions, allergies or prescriptions, and alert the doctor of the problem. This is particularly important for older patients with longer medical histories and more frequent need for drug prescriptions. In addition, doctors would more easily be able to track whether patients were correctly filling prescriptions.

The attorneys at Ferrer Shane, PL, are Miami medical malpractice lawsuit lawyers who assist clients throughout south Florida with a variety of legal services. For more information about their Miami law firm, visit their Web site, http://www.ferrerlaw.com/ or call them at (305) 262-2728.

Location:

Ferrer Shane, PL

North Kendall Drive, Suite 260

Miami, FL 33176

Phone: 305-929-8684

Toll-free: (888) 609-5947

Additional Resources:

Personal Injury Legal Blog: http://www.ferrerlaw.com/blog/

Auto Accident Blog: http://www.miamimotorvehicleaccidentsattorney.com/

DUI & Traffic Ticket Blog: http://www.miami-dui-defense-attorney.com/

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Seeking Disability Benefits in Fibromyalgia Cases

Fri, 11 May 2012 07:11:24 +0000

The disability insurance industry has capitalized on biases against fibromyalgia to deny claims, if objective tests do not show a disability from FMS.

May 11, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Fibromyalgia is a musculoskeletal ailment characterized by widespread pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues. Doctors believe that the disease amplifies pain by affecting the way the brain processes pain signals. Essentially, painful sensations are a result of how normal signals are amplified. Normally benign aches would register as debilitating pain. Fibromyalgia is also associated with increased fatigue and sleep disturbances which can further debilitate those with the disease.

Fibromyalgia (FMS) awareness has gained significant traction over the last 20 years. Nearly five million Americans (or 1 in 50) suffer from this disorder. In fact, fibromyalgia is second only to osteoarthritis as the most common musculoskeletal ailment. Ninety percent of those suffering from FMS are women (although men may contract it as well). Most people develop symptoms during their 30's and 40's, and over half recall a traumatic event (such as an accident, significant injury or other experience leading to PTSD) as a trigger for their symptoms.

Negative Perceptions of FMS

Many people with FMS are dismissed as psychological head cases who don't actually suffer from a neurochemical ailment. Perhaps because a large majority of people suffering from it are women, there is an inherent perception that nothing is medically wrong with the patient. Most FMS patients endure long periods of misdiagnosis (e.g. for depression, anxiety, irritability) before finally being treated. Because it has symptoms that may point to other ailments, the average assessment takes five years. During that time, FMS patients may be told that the pain is "all in their head" or that they "need to get over it" or "get on with life."

The disability insurance industry has capitalized on these biases. Insurance companies do this in several ways. First, many disability insurers simply refuse to cover disability caused by FMS or other musculoskeletal disorders. Where there is not an express exclusion for FMS, disability insurance companies often demand "objective" testing results to demonstrate disability from FMS. These companies are aware that objectifying a condition which is characterized by subjective symptoms is close to impossible.

Court Findings

Nevertheless, courts have increasingly resisted these efforts to deny disability insurance coverage to FMS sufferers In Salomaa v. Honda LTD Plan, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit held that the plan administrator abused its discretion when it denied long term disability benefits to a claimant suffering from fibromyalgia. He completed a battery of tests that indicated that he was disabled, and was even awarded Social Security disability benefits. Despite this, the administrator denied benefits because he failed to provide "positive physical findings." The plan administrator did not believe that he met the criteria for a chronic syndrome. The court found that the reasons for the denial were "shifting and inconsistent as well as illogical."

Important Considerations

FMS awareness has lead to changes in the diagnostic criteria adopted by the American College of Rheumatology in 2010. The new diagnosis combines an updated pain index (which includes 19 specified areas) with a new severity scale that measures pain levels across a person's body. It also measures the levels of related factors, including fatigue, waking un-refreshed and cognitive difficulties.

Another important consideration is the type of claimants seeking California disability benefits. Many are ambitious, hardworking professionals entering the prime of their careers. They would trade the money and satisfaction of a gratifying career over their pain and suffering and finality of fixed disability payments. While they may not reveal it, most judges realize this as well.

If you have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia or chronic pain syndrome and are seeking disability benefits, an experienced lawyer can counsel you.

Article provided by Pillsbury & Levinson, LLP

Visit us at www.pl-disabilitylawyers.com/

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Those With Parkinson's Disease Able to Claim SSDI Benefits

Sun, 06 May 2012 07:13:12 +0000

Parkinson's disease is an eligible condition for SSDI.

May 06, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Individuals with Parkinson 's disease severe enough to prevent them from working are able to collect vital benefits through Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI. If the individual is a veteran, disability benefits through the VA may also be available.

What is Parkinson's Disease?

Parkinson's disease is a degenerative brain disorder that affects a patient's movement in the extremities and face. Common symptoms include tremors and shaking, stiffness in the limbs, slow movement and loss of coordination or balance. These symptoms can affect one's ability to work and may make working impossible altogether.

SSDI Benefits for Parkinson's Disease Sufferers

Fortunately, the Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes Parkinson's disease as a condition eligible for SSDI. Though the disease typically affects those over 50, sometimes younger individuals are affected. SSDI benefits are available to those under the full retirement age (65-67).

To be eligible for SSDI benefits, workers must be under 65 and have paid into the Social Security system for at least ten years. Parkinson's disease is on the SSA's list of eligible conditions under "neurological conditions" and individuals applying for SSDI should be able to present systems like significant rigidity of limbs, bradykinesia and tremors in two or more extremities.

If someone applies for SSDI benefits due to Parkinson's disease but is initially denied benefits, he or she should appeal the decision as soon as possible, since claims for Parkinson's disease are often denied at first, then awarded during an appeals hearing.

Filing for SSDI benefits as soon as possible will help individuals avoid going without a paycheck when their Parkinson's disease symptoms become too severe.

Veterans Benefits Also Available

For those that were in the service during the Vietnam War, veterans' disability benefits may also be available. Recently the Veterans Administration has acknowledged that there is a connection between Agent Orange and Parkinson's disease. Veterans who were in the Republic of Vietnam, parts of Thailand, parts of the Korean DMZ, and certain U.S. bases do not need to prove they were exposed to Agent Orange to be eligible for benefits. Veterans with Parkinson's disease are able to use the VA's Fast Track Claims Processing System to apply for benefits.

Those with Parkinson's disease who are worried that their symptoms may prevent them from permanently working should consult with a disability lawyer to help them understand the benefits that are available to them and assist in navigating the complex application process.

Article provided by The Law Offices of Paul M. Goodson P.C.

Visit us at www.pgoodson.com

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New York Medical Malpractice Lawyer From The Perecman Firm Commends New York's Ellis Hospital for Acquiring Innovative Infection Prevention Technology

Sun, 06 May 2012 07:11:00 +0000

New York medical malpractice lawyer David Perecman applauds New York's Ellis Hospital for introducing an innovative technology designed to increase the safety of patients.

NEW YORK, NY, May 06, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- http://www.infectioncontroltoday.com/news/2012/04/ellis-medicine-unveils-new-tool-to-enhance-patient-safety.aspx

New York medical malpractice lawyer David Perecman commends Ellis Hospital for doing more to protect patients against hospital-acquired infections.

Ellis is the second hospital in New York to use Xenex, an innovative "germ-zapping technology," according to Infection Control Today (4/26/2012) magazine.

"The continuing efforts of New York hospitals to improve patient safety are to be applauded. Hospitals should always strive to provide the best and safest care possible for their patients in New York," said medical malpractice lawyer David Perecman, founder of The Perecman Firm, a New York medical malpractice law firm dedicated to representing people who have been seriously injured by New York hospitals or other health care providers.

As New York medical malpractice lawyers at The Perecman Firm understand, Xenex is a portable room disinfection system that pulses ultraviolet light throughout the room. It is used after a standard cleaning is done.

The machine destroys viruses, bacteria, and bacterial spores in approximately five to ten minutes, reported the medical publication.

Studies show the Xenex disinfection system is "consistently 20 times more effective than standard chemical cleaning practices," said the magazine.

Approximately 1 in every 20 hospitalized patients contracts a healthcare-associated infection (HAI), according to the Centers for Disease Control. An estimated 98,987 deaths were associated with HAIs in U.S. hospitals in 2002, the most recent year for which data are available.

http://www.cdc.gov/HAI/burden.html

If a patient infection is caused by unsanitary conditions in a hospital or medical facility, the victim may be able to hold the hospital or other medical care provider responsible for serious injuries resulting from the infection.

If you or someone you love has been injured through medical malpractice in New York, please contact the New York medical malpractice lawyers at The Perecman Firm at http://www.perecman.com.

About David Perecman and The Perecman Firm, PLLC:

For the past 30 years, the New York medical malpractice, construction accident civil rights violation, and auto accident lawyers at The Perecman Firm, PLLC have handled hundreds of New York medical malpractice cases. David Perecman, founder of the Firm, has been recognized for his achievements as an Honoree in the National Law Journal's Hall of Fame, in New York Magazine's "The Best Lawyers in America" and The New York Times Magazine "New York Super Lawyers, Metro Edition" for the years 2007-2010. The prestigious U.S. News & World Report ranks The Perecman Firm among the top 20 personal injury firms in New York City for 2011-2012.

The Firm has recovered millions of dollars for its clients. Among the more recent victories, Mr. Perecman won a $15 million verdict** for a construction accident (Index 112370/03), a $5.35 million dollar verdict*** for an automobile accident (Index 2749/04), and a $40 million dollar structured settlement for medical malpractice (Index 2146/03)****.

The Perecman Firm serves Manhattan, Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Long Island, Westchester, Upstate NY, Morris County, and Rockland County.

**later settled while on appeal for $7.940 million

*** later settled for $3.5 million

**** total potential payout

"Lawyer Advertising"

"Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome."

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HealthEdSolutions.com Launches Health Education Article Special Section Focused on Emergency Department Professionals

Thu, 03 May 2012 07:20:30 +0000

Healthcare certification provider offers industry insights and training advice for emergency healthcare professionals

LINCOLN, NE, May 03, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- To help healthcare professionals keep up with increasing demand for emergency department care, Health Education Solutions (HES), a leading provider of online healthcare certification courses including HeartCode ACLS, today released an Emergency Department health education article special section. This collection of informational articles is designed to help emergency department professionals equip themselves with the knowledge and skills they need to effectively care for more patients and prepare themselves for career advancement.

Between 1995 and 2008, emergency room visits increased by 28 percent according to the National Center for Health Statistics. As emergency departments continue to experience larger patient loads, the demand for professionals who understand how to effectively deliver cardiovascular life support interventions will grow as well.

"In order to provide effective lifesaving care to a patient, emergency care workers must have a strong understanding of both life support interventions and current trends that may impact delivery of care," said Melissa Marks, president of HES. "Health Education Solutions provides resources, information, and certification options to help emergency department nurses, doctors and other professionals keep their skills up to date and their knowledge current."

The Emergency Department health education article special section offers emergency department data, information and resources to help professionals learn more about effective delivery of care, as well as industry trends and career opportunities. It is available in Health Education Solutions' online research library, accessible via the HES homepage.

To help emergency department professionals equip themselves with essential lifesaving skills, HES offers online advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) certification and recertification courses. These online, self-paced courses are a convenient option for emergency care professionals who work long hours or have non-traditional schedules.

- Click here for ACLS certification

- Click here for ACLS recertification

HES additionally provides online American Heart Association HeartCode ACLS, pediatric advanced life support (PALS), stroke, basic life support (BLS), cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), automated external defibrillator (AED), bloodborne pathogens and first aid training. Courses are intended for healthcare professionals, as well as individuals who want to be prepared to provide care in an emergency.

For professionals preparing for the ACLS and PALS exams, HES offers certification and recertification practice tests and quizzes. Questions included in both the tests and quizzes are similar to those included in the ACLS and PALS certification and recertification exams. The practice quizzes each include five sample questions and are available free of charge. The practice tests, which mirror the actual certification exam and include 50 timed multiple-choice questions, are available for $35. A portion of this fee can be applied to the purchase price of the full certification course. Individuals who take the practice tests and quizzes have the opportunity to immediately review incorrectly answered questions to understand where more studying may be needed.

For more information about training options for emergency care professionals, please visit http://www.healthedsolutions.com/articles/health-education-article.

About Health Education Solutions

Health Education Solutions (HES) is a leading provider of continuing education solutions for healthcare professionals. HES, a subsidiary of Nelnet Inc., offers ACLS and PALS courses developed in partnership with medical faculty at Union College in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Contact:

Shannon Fern

Communications Strategy Group

303.433.7020

sfern@csg-pr.com

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Study Confirms e-Prescribing Systems Reduce Medication Errors

Sat, 28 Apr 2012 07:13:41 +0000

A recent study in Australia confirmed what many U.S. health organizations and officials promote: e-prescribing systems help to reduce a variety of medication errors.

April 28, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- A recent study in Australia confirmed what many U.S. health organizations and officials promote: e-prescribing systems help to reduce a variety of medication errors. While many healthcare hospitals and clinics in the U.S. have already implemented e-prescribing and other online medical systems and processes, the government and organizations like the American Medical Association (AMA) continue to encourage their adoption. Widespread use of e-prescribing systems helps protect patients and avoid painful and costly medication errors.

e-Prescribing Method

Electronic prescribing, or e-prescribing, systems help to automate the process of ordering, dispensing and paying for prescription drugs. Typically a physician enters a script in a patient's record on the e-prescribing system, which is then forwarded to a pharmacy of the patient's choice. The prescription history, insurance coverage and any possible medication interactions or side effects for a patient are also tracked within the e-prescribing system. In addition, refills and other authorizations are managed through the e-prescribing interface.

Australian Study Findings

Researchers in Australia studied the impact of two e-prescribing systems, Cerner Millennium and iSoft MedChart, in two Australian hospitals. The study assessed whether the e-prescribing systems reduced procedural and clinical medication errors, like unclear prescriptions or incorrect doses, without introducing new system errors. Overall findings indicated that these systems "significantly reduced prescribing errors, including serious errors." The major decline was to serious errors, mainly due to less procedural issues.

U.S. Implementation Initiatives

According to the AMA, two immediate benefits to physicians and their practices after implementing an e-prescribing system are time savings and Medicare incentive payments. Through the Medicare service, the government offers incentives for healthcare clinics and hospitals to purchase and install e-prescribing systems. Once implemented, providers can earn one percent of total Medicare Part B payments for 2011 and 2012. If prescribers do not use an e-prescribing system, they may be penalized by receiving lower Medicare payments.

Avoiding Medication Errors

Clinics and hospitals should take care to make process improvements, in addition to implementing an e-prescribing system, to avoid medication errors and ensure proper quality control. While it is difficult to entirely remove the possibility of human error from the prescription process, e-prescribing systems greatly improve the care patients receive by reducing medication errors like script illegibility, incorrect medications and wrong doses. However, some patients may find themselves the victims of painful medication errors.

If you recently experienced a medication error, whether as the result of prescription or dispensing errors, contact a local medical malpractice attorney for advice. If the physician was not using an e-prescribing system, there may be a chance there were procedural or clinical errors at issue for which you deserve compensation.

Article provided by Lancione & Lancione, PLL

Visit us at www.lancionelaw.com

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FDA to Review Metal-on-Metal Hip Implant Devices

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 07:10:36 +0000

The FDA is investigating the dangers posed by metal-on-metal implants.

April 27, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will hold a special advisory panel this June to discuss the serious health problems metal-on-metal hip implant devices may pose to patients. The agency seeks the input of experts to help it make safety recommendations for current and potential metal-on-metal implant patients.

Metal-on-metal implants may pose serious health issues for patients. The implants are meant to replace or resurface the ball-and-socket hip joint, where the ball and socket are in constant contact and move against each other. In metal-on-metal devices, both the ball and the socket are made of metal and it is possible for the metal to shred off and leak into patients' bloodstreams.

Recently, the FDA has required over 20 implant manufacturers, including but not limited to DePuy, to audit their patients for issues pertaining to metal-on-metal implants, particularly whether or not patients have experienced issues related to metal debris.

The issue was first discovered in 2010 in two hip devices manufactured by DePuy Orthopaedics: the ASR and Pinnacle hip implant devices. That year, DePuy issued a recall of its ASR system, which was found to fail in 12 percent of patients within five years. DePuy has since been sued in a series of lawsuits by plaintiffs with serious medical complaints and conditions caused by the metal-on-metal implant devices.

Doctors may recommend hip implants to patients who experience pain and stiffness in their hips. While these devices should provide relief from these conditions, they may pose more serious health threats to patients. Recent hip implant patients should be on the look-out for pain in the groin, hips or legs, swelling and changes to gait, since these symptoms may indicate that the implant may be causing trouble. More serious symptoms like chest pain, fatigue and changes in urination are definite causes for concern and should be addressed immediately.

If you suspect that your metal-on-metal hip implant is to blame for your health issue, please consult an experienced personal injury attorney who can explain any compensation to which you may be entitled.

Article provided by Friedman, Rodman & Frank, P.A.

Visit us at www.friedmanrodmanfrank.com

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Smoking Could Affect More Than Just a Parent's Health

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 07:11:48 +0000

Many courts now consider a parent's smoking a determining factor when making child timesharing decisions.

April 22, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Courts across the nation are increasingly factoring a parent's smoking habits into child timesharing (formerly "custody") decisions. A recent survey notes that parents who smoke tobacco products regularly are less likely to receive full or joint custody and may be required to agree to take steps to protect their children from exposure to second-hand smoke.

More than 46 million Americans smoke cigarettes, and one in five children are regularly exposed to secondhand smoke in the home. The dangers of secondhand smoke are well established; children exposed to secondhand smoke are more likely to have poor lung function, stunted lung growth and to develop respiratory infections, asthma, ear infections and persistent cold-like symptoms. Infants are at higher risk for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) when around a smoker and they are more frequently hospitalized. Problems can linger into adulthood, increasing the risk of lung cancer and heart disease as well as the probability that the child will grow up to be a smoker him or herself.

While a parent's smoking hasn't previously been taken into account when making timesharing decisions, more and more state courts are acting on the volumes of research data available showing the acute dangers and the carcinogenic properties of secondhand smoke. Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) -- an anti-tobacco group -- reports that courts in nearly half of the states have added parental smoking to the list of relevant factors in custody cases. ASH adds that no court has explicitly declined to consider it in these types of cases.

Courts in many states now weigh parental smoking alongside more traditional factors like income, housing situation, religious preferences and lifestyle when determining the timesharing arrangement that is in the best interests of the child. Some courts have prohibited or limited smoking in parental homes, vehicles and during timesharing. Some courts have modified existing timesharing orders to protect children from smoke exposure, even assigning custody to nonsmoking relatives instead of either parent. When children have preexisting conditions like asthma, courts are even more likely to consider parental smoking a deciding factor. Judges may be skeptical of a parent's claim that he or she will quit smoking, instead taking definitive action to protect the child's delicate lungs.

Many courts have found that constitutional protections for parental autonomy and privacy do not outweigh the state's duty to protect a child's health. Nonsmoking parents who bring a former spouse's smoking habits to the court's attention put the spouse at a disadvantage. While not all courts consider smoking a factor in timesharing decisions, a parent who is serious about getting or keeping substantial timesharing of their children should just quit smoking as soon as child custody becomes an issue. Other steps include limiting smoking to specific times and places even when a child is away.

Courts may not be able to force a parent to quit smoking, but they can limit the parental rights of a smoker in order to protect a child's health. If you or your former spouse are involved in a timesharing dispute where exposure to secondhand smoke is a factor, contact an experienced and Board-Certified family law attorney in your area as soon as possible to learn more about your legal rights and options.

Article provided by Curtis R. Cowan, P.A.

Visit us at www.curtcowanlaw.com

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Reimbursements Are Top Concern of Providers in Breast Imaging

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 08:15:52 +0000

Providers rave about Hologic tomosynthesis' cancer finding potential and vent about reimbursement and PACS integration issues

OREM, UT, April 10, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- In a new KLAS study, "Women's Imaging 2012: Tomosynthesis Makes a Splash," Hologic leads as the number one vendor in digital mammography. Combined with a strong digital mammography product and excellent service, tomosynthesis helps Hologic solidify their leadership position in the space.

Tomosynthesis lives up to the hype, but KLAS found that there are still some issues to be ironed out with the newly approved technology. For those upgrading to tomosynthesis, the high cost is something to consider, especially because reimbursements continue to be cut for screening. Also, PACS lack of integration plagues some providers, causing workflow problems.

"Some customers reported that their PACS system would not accept tomosynthesis studies. It has created a workflow concern for radiologists who have to leave their office or reading room and come out to the tomosynthesis workstation to read the study," said report author Monique Rasband. "Despite these challenges, many are saying it is worth the effort because they are able to so clearly identify lesions they may not have been able to see before."

GE leads the second tier of digital mammography vendors. Fuji, GE, and Siemens all perform above the medical equipment average, but have not quite been able to keep up with Hologic. GE has a market share advantage over Fuji and Siemens. A wide range of imaging products and long-established relationships propel GE into many new digital mammography deals. However, KLAS found that sub-par implementations and lagging tomosynthesis development keep GE second to Hologic.

Siemens improved year over year and is fighting for market share with their second run at digital mammography--this time using their own detectors. Siemens has made some headway tackling reliability issues, but more work is needed. KLAS found that the Siemens customers reported the most downtime in the study. Fuji was found to play prevalently in smaller hospitals and outpatient centers and customers appreciated the cost-effective solution. However, Fuji's CR unit is seen as old technology. Their new digital mammography unit, recently FDA approved, has not picked up a lot of steam among Fuji's current customers.

Reimbursement problems plagued the niche vendors included in the study. Aurora, Dilon, SonoCine, and U-Systems all offer a niche breast imaging product, and all had customers that reported problems getting reimbursed for screening patients. Many providers liked the functionality of SonoCine and U-Systems, but said they would not use it in many cases because reimbursement codes did not exist and patients did not want to pay out of pocket. Those doing diagnostic imaging with these modalities did not run into as many issues with reimbursements. U-Systems is currently working with the FDA to get approval for screeing in all 50 states.

Though not ranked in the study, several RIS and mammography information system (MIS) vendors are discussed. When providers were asked to rate the usability of their MIS or RIS vendor, it was found that MIS vendors PenRad, MRS, and MagView have some niche functionality that providers like, but they somewhat lack in service coverage. Providers reported that a couple of the RIS vendors, Fuji and Merge, have excellent mammography modules. On the other hand, some of the larger IT vendors like Cerner, GE, and Siemens struggle to provide the functionality needed for mammography.

To learn more about the women's imaging market and the strengths and weaknesses of the measured vendors, the report "Women's Imaging 2012: Tomosynthesis Makes a Splash" is available to healthcare providers a significant discount off the standard retail price. To purchase the report providers and vendors can visit www.KLASresearch.com.

KLAS is a research firm specializing in monitoring and reporting the performance of healthcare vendors. KLAS' mission is to improve delivery, by independently measuring vendor performance for the benefit of our healthcare provider partners, consultants, investors, and vendors. Working together with executives from over 4500 hospitals and over 2500 clinics, KLAS delivers timely reports, trends, and statistics, which provide a solid overview of vendor performance worldwide in the industry. KLAS measures performance of software, professional services, and medical equipment vendors. For more information, go to www.KLASresearch.com, email marketing@KLASresearch.com, or call 1-800-920-4109 to speak with a KLAS representative. Follow KLAS on Twitter at www.twitter.com/KLASresearch.

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Is Your Doctor Telling You the Whole Truth? Maybe Not, Says New Study

Sun, 08 Apr 2012 07:11:14 +0000

A nationwide poll has troubling implications for patients who rely on their doctor's advice.

April 08, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Is Your Doctor Telling You the Whole Truth? Maybe Not, Says New Study

In our culture, doctors have an almost mythical reputation as the wielders of exclusive knowledge about the mysteries of the human body. Sometimes this standing allows us to forget that, just like their patients, physicians are only human.

One new study bluntly reveals how human many doctors really are. New research, published in the prestigious journal Health Affairs, paints a grim picture about the level of dishonesty infecting the medical profession. The report just may have you wondering whether you really know the person you have entrusted with your wellbeing -- and reaching for the number of a respected NYC medical malpractice law firm.

Physician Dishonestly About Drug Company Ties, Medical Mistakes Prevalent

Researchers surveyed almost 2,000 practicing physicians throughout the United States to compile the results of the Health Affairs study. They captured information about a wide spectrum of untruthfulness.

Some doctor dishonesty sprang from honorable intentions: more than half of physicians told patients their prognosis looked better than it did (55 percent admitted to delivering an inaccurately positive health report in the last year); others attempted to "scare" patients out of bad health behavior by making a prognosis seem more threatening than it truly was. Yet, studies consistently show that patients prefer the truth about their medical condition, even if it is grim -- understandable, given that what a doctor may see as a white lie in this context precludes the patient from exercising his or her own autonomous judgments about the situation.

Noble, if misguided, intentions did not account for all doctor mendacity reported in the study. Many doctors were unwilling to reveal their own ties to pharmaceutical or medical device companies: about 40 percent said they do not believe it is necessary to tell patients when they have a financial stake in companies whose products they may be recommending.

A significant minority of doctors responded troublingly when asked about reporting medical mistakes to patients. Approximately one-third of physicians said they did not completely agree that patients should always be informed about serious medical errors (and just over 10 percent admitted to telling a patient a lie in the last year). Even though such lies may be intentioned as a means of dodging a medical malpractice suit, the study's lead author noted that they often have the opposite effect: patients are more likely to pursue legal claims against doctors who are not open and honest about their mistakes.

Doctor Lies Can Lead To Legal Culpability

A doctor's dishonesty can cause you harm in many ways, from delaying the diagnosis of a serious health threat to usurping your right to make your own medical decisions based on full and accurate information. If you believe a physician's untruthfulness may have had a negative impact on yourself or a family member, contact a medical malpractice lawyer to learn more about your right to compensation.

Article provided by Powers & Santola, LLP

Visit us at www.powers-santola.com

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Study Finds Traumatic Brain Injuries More Common Than Once Thought

Sat, 07 Apr 2012 07:10:24 +0000

New findings by Mayo Clinic researchers show traumatic brain injuries occur at higher rates than previously thought.

April 07, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Study Finds Traumatic Brain Injuries More Common Than Once Thought

Scientists and medical professionals understand a lot more about the long-term effects of traumatic brain injuries now than they did even just a few years ago. However, until recently, most didn't have a good understanding of how frequently these injuries occur.

Researchers at the Mayo Clinic recently took on this issue, and their findings show that traumatic brain injuries occur much more frequently than was previously thought.

The researchers devised a new method for classifying head injuries into categories of "definite," "probable" and "possible" TBI, based on patients' reports of symptoms including unconsciousness, dizziness or nausea.

They then used this method to review a collection of medical records that spanned several decades. In doing so, they found that TBIs may occur in as many as 558 per 100,000 people. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention previously estimated the rate to be about 341 per 100,000 people. Approximately 60 percent of the brain injuries the Mayo Clinic researchers identified fell outside of the CDC's standard categorization metrics.

Risk Factors for TBI

Traumatic brain injuries can occur when the head strikes a hard surface or when a deceleration-type injury causes the brain to move around inside the cranial cavity. They are frequently seen in motor vehicle accident victims and in athletes who play contact sports.

The researchers found that some groups of people like men and the elderly are more at risk for TBIs than others. Young people, however, were more likely to report symptoms that indicated a "possible" brain injury.

Will Study Lead to Better Care?

In the wake of the findings, many are beseeching the CDC to revise its brain injury classification system. They hope that a better understanding of TBI frequency will translate to more effective methods for preventing and treating brain injuries.

The findings should also serve as a reminder to all of us that brain injuries aren't always obvious after an accident. If you are concerned that you or a loved one may have suffered a brain injury -- for example, because you are experiencing nausea, headaches, dizziness or unexplained changes in mood or cognition -- be sure to seek help from a medical professional.

Article provided by Spangenberg Shibley & Liber LLP

Visit us at www.spanglaw.com

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Asbestos Used In Navy Vessels May Put Veterans, Shipbuilders at Risk

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 07:14:21 +0000

Thousands of Navy vessels were heavily laced with asbestos in the past, exposing both seaman and shipbuilders to potentially deadly levels of asbestos.

April 06, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- For years, asbestos was a key building material in nearly every vital component of U.S. Navy ships. Asbestos's unique flame and temperature retardant properties made it ideally suited to Navy ships' purpose as combat vessels.

But, in the long run, asbestos may have cost far more lives as a hazardous substance than it ever saved through its fire-resistant attributes. Thousands of Navy vessels, especially in the war eras of the 1940s and 1970s, were heavily laced with asbestos, even after its dangerous nature began to become apparent to key decision makers. Now, it is well-established that asbestos exposure can lead to serious health consequences, and legal help for asbestos lung cancer and mesothelioma victims is available for those impacted by asbestos exposure in naval service or support roles.

Those Exposed To Asbestos in Naval Service at Risk for Several Diseases

Asbestos is a fibrous material that occurs naturally in the environment, and we all breathe in tiny amounts of asbestos that hang in the air. But, when exposure to asbestos is concentrated, particularly over a long period of time, it can have severe negative health consequences, including:

- Pleural plaques, scarring in the area surrounding the lungs and the inner surface of the rib cage that causes breathing problems

- Asbestosis, scarring of lung tissue that, compared to pleural plaques, typically results in more severe breathing problems

- Cancer, primarily lung cancer and mesothelioma, a cancer of the lung lining or abdominal cavity

Often, these diseases do not appear until years after the initial asbestos exposure.

Although millions of U.S. Navy veterans and workers in American shipyards have been exposed to asbestos over the years, many of them are unaware of it until the onset of a serious health condition. While any Navy veteran or shipbuilder could have encountered asbestos, those involved in mining, milling, insulation work, demolition, carpentry, construction and certain manufacturing processes are particularly likely to be at risk for lung conditions.

Get Help From an Asbestos Lawyer

Navy personnel exposed to asbestos may have several avenues to pursue compensation. Veterans who encountered asbestos during military service may be entitled to VA benefits for, among other things, health care and disability compensation. Veterans, shipyard contractors and other workers may also be able to make legal claims for monetary damages beyond any government-provided benefits.

If you were exposed to asbestos in naval endeavors, you deserve compensation for putting yourself at risk in service to this country; if a loved one has died due to a Navy-related illness, his or her family should be taken care of in light of this ultimate sacrifice. Contact an attorney specializing in asbestos, lung cancer and mesothelioma cases today to learn more about the monetary recovery you may be entitled to.

Article provided by Gori Julian & Associates PC

Visit us at www.gorijulianlaw.com/

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Mesothelioma Breathing Device Could Lead to Safer Diagnosis

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 07:13:36 +0000

Researchers from the Netherlands and Italy have developed a device that detects malignant pleural mesothelioma from a breath sample, according to Medical News Today.

CHICAGO, IL, April 02, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- The breathalyzer is widely used by law enforcement to determine the amount of alcohol a person has consumed. Researchers from the Netherlands and Italy have, with a level of certainty, developed a device that detects malignant pleural mesothelioma from a breath sample, according to Medical News Today.

The report says the "electronic nose," known to developers as Cyranose 320, is able to analyze a person's breath and pick out harmful compounds in the sample.

The research conducted at the respiratory disease departments of the University of Bari in Italy and the University of Amsterdam could dramatically change the way mesothelioma is diagnosed. A thorascopic biopsy is currently the most common way to diagnose the disease. The invasive procedure involves a thin tube, which is inserted into the chest through an incision to allow extraction of a tissue sample. However, it is risky because it can cause a collapsed lung, clotting or blood loss, among other complications. The "electronic nose" would be a far safer option.

The report suggests the device can distinguish, with at least 80 percent accuracy, between breath samples of people with MPM and healthy individuals who have had long-term asbestos exposure even without having developed mesothelioma. The study used 13 patients with biopsy-confirmed MPM, 13 people with known long-term exposure to asbestos but no MPM and 13 individuals with no known asbestos exposure.

In addition to exhibiting an 80 percent accuracy rate when differentiating between those with MPM and those without (despite long-term exposure to asbestos), the device also proved 85 percent accurate when choosing between those with MPM and those who are asbestos-free. The experiments were conducted several times, each time returning the same results. If further studies confirm these success rates, the Cryanose 320 could be developed into a preferred way to diagnose mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma: A Closer Look

Mesothelioma is a cancer of the membrane lining the chest and abdomen. It is caused by significant and prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers.

Asbestos was widely used in home and manufacturing construction materials during the 20th century. Typically asbestos is commonly found in:

- Ceilings

- Basements

- Attics

- Flooring

- Pipes

- Insulation

Because of its strength and tolerance to extreme heat, asbestos can also be found in materials such as:

- Floor tiles

- Fuse boxes

- Window sills

Once inhaled, asbestos fibers become lodged in the body and can cause inflammation and irritation.

Problems can worsen over time. Mesothelioma, like the other asbestos-related health problems -- such as asbestosis and lung cancer -- generally take dozens of years to appear, and once diagnosed, treatment is rarely successful.

There are several variants of mesothelioma. MPM is the most common, affecting the lining of the lungs, though it is not lung cancer. It is reported about 2,500 people are affected by the disease each year. That number continues to rise, though some of the increase can be attributed to better diagnostic techniques -- which could soon include the Cyranose 320.

Seidman Law Offices

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Chicago, IL

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Anesthesia-Related Medical Malpractice

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 07:12:48 +0000

Anesthesia is supposed to safely keep us comfortable during invasive and painful medical procedures.

GOLDEN, CO, March 30, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Anesthesia is supposed to safely keep us comfortable during invasive and painful medical procedures. Anesthesia has the power to change your breathing, heart rate and blood flow to place you in a deeply relaxed and unconscious state. The power of these drugs requires careful screening, monitoring, and administration by the professionals in charge of your care. Severe, life-altering injuries can result when anesthesia-related medical malpractice occurs.

What is Anesthesia Malpractice?

Common types of anesthesia-related medical malpractice include:

- Failure to properly monitor vital signs

- Failure to respond to an anesthesia complication

- Failure to inform patient of anesthesia preparation (i.e. fasting)

- Failure to recognize patient's allergy to anesthesia

- Intubation error

- Dosage error

- Defective or unsanitary anesthesia equipment

Anesthesia-related medical malpractice can severely harm you. Possible outcomes of anesthesia malpractice include:

- Lack of oxygen to the brain

- Brain damage

- Asphyxiation

- Heart attack

- Stroke

- Cardiovascular damage

- Tracheal damage

- Coma

- Death

In some cases of anesthesia malpractice, an inadequate dose of anesthesia or the use of defective medical equipment can cause anesthesia awareness, a situation in which the patient awakens during surgery, unable to move or speak but aware of what is happening.

The implications of medical malpractice are quite serious. You may be severely injured or paralyzed because of the anesthesia error. You are likely to face extensive medical treatment and expense, as well as possible physical impairments. You may be unable to work, and thus unable to support yourself and any dependants.

Fault for Anesthesia-Related Medical Malpractice

In the busy environment of hospitals and surgical centers, there are many possible instances in which a mistake can occur. Although no one is guaranteed a positive outcome to treatment or a complication-free surgery, complications that are caused by negligence should not occur.

Anyone who was involved in your anesthesiology care may be found liable for anesthesia medical malpractice. Responsibility may lie with:

- Anesthesiologists

- Nurses

- Physicians

- Hospital administration

These professionals have a duty to provide medical care meeting the standards of the medical community. When a medical professional deviates from accepted standards, his or her carelessness can cause a serious injury, which may ultimately cause the injured a great deal of expense, pain and harm.

To learn more about anesthesia errors and other types of medical malpractice, please visit the website of the experienced medical malpractice lawyers in Pennsylvania at Atlee, Hall & Brookhart, LLP.

Website: http://www.atleehall.com

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