Alimta Diagnosis

Families Informed About Insurance Coverage With Medical Reimbursement Resource

noreply@blogger.com (PPC Meso) — 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 (PPC Meso) — 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 (PPC Meso) — 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 (PPC Meso) — 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/

New Patient Safety Solution Supported By Pharmacy Technician Certification Board

noreply@blogger.com (PPC Meso) — 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 (PPC Meso) — 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 (PPC Meso) — 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

Nursing Home Signs Contract with Patient Placement Systems

noreply@blogger.com (PPC Meso) — 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

Victims of Asbestos Exposure Should Call the Mesothelioma Victims Center

noreply@blogger.com (PPC Meso) — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 01:49:00 +0000

Mesothelioma Victims And All Victims of Asbestos Exposure Should Call the Mesothelioma Victims Center First For Free Honest Advise & Help

Why should victims of mesothelioma or their families call the Mesothelioma Victims Center First? According to Americas Watchdog, "its pretty simple, we will tell them the truth about treatment options, lawyers, Social Security, and everything else they need to know and our service is free". The Mesothelioma Victims Center was created to assist all US victims of Mesothelioma. Americas Watchdog has initiated this very complete free service because there is literally nothing close to this type of service in the United States, and because this type of service is sorely needed by Mesothelioma victims and their families. The Mesothelioma Victims Center was created to assist victims & their families in every way possible. Victims who served in the US Navy are especially encouraged to contact the group at 866-714-6466.

May 27, 2008 -- The Mesothelioma Victims Center is a free service designed to assist all victims of Mesothelioma, or to assist the families of victims who have this disease. What makes this service unique? According to Americas Watchdog,"our service to victims or their families is free. Mesothelioma is a rare, and lethal form of cancer related to asbestos exposure. Americas Watchdog never realized that there was no safety net for victims, to get help from the government or VA. They did not know how difficult it might be to get veterans benefits or social security benefits. Americas Watchdog also discovered that it is critical for victims of this lethal disease to get proper legal representation. They have designed the Mesothelioma Victims Center to be the national advocacy center for the victims and family members of Mesothelioma.Their service is free. The web site is located at http://MesotheliomaVictimsCenter.com.

Very Important note: According to the Mesothelioma Victims Center, "You do not want a personal injury attorney with little, to no Mesothelioma experience taking on a case, unless they have lots of experience with mesothelioma. This is especially true of US Navy veterans, who were exposed in a US naval vessel engine room. If you, or a loved one has been diagnosed with Mesothelioma, there are thousands of law firms that say they can take the case. The problem; there are only a handful of law firms in the US that can do a superior job."

According to Americas Watchdog, "Individuals who have been diagnosed with Mesothelioma, or their family members should call the Mesothelioma Victims Center first, for honest and straight forward advice at 866-714-6466". The Mesothelioma Center is all about honest, and helpful advice for all Mesothelioma victims. The Mesothelioma Victims Center web site is located at Http://MesotheliomaVictimsCenter.com.

The Mesothelioma Victims Center's services include:

* Assisting the victims of Mesothelioma in obtaining Social Security permanent disability payments

* If the victim is a veteran and was exposed to asbestos during military duty, we will work with the victim and his/her family in obtaining veterans disability and health care benefits.

* We will assist the family in getting the best possible health care options

* We will assist the victim in getting legal representation.

* We will assist the victim and their family in getting counseling on a wide variety of topics that arise from this disease.

A victim of Mesothelioma or their family can call the group any time for help, assistance and advice anytime at 866-714-6466.

Who Can Get Mesothelioma? Individuals exposed to asbestos. As Follows

* Individuals who served in the US Navy. Especially Navy personnel who served in or around naval ship engine rooms.

* Members of the US Army, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard.

* Naval ship yard workers

* Oil refinery workers

* Ship yard workers

* Automotive repair specialists

* Construction workers

* Plumbers

* Demolition contractors

Important note to doctors and medical staff: Please tell your patients about the Mesothelioma Victims Center.

Because no other group is providing this full range of services, and because victims and their families need assistance in these areas, Americas Watchdog is doing all of this at no charge, because its the right thing to do. Americas Watchdog's Mesothelioma Victims Center web site is located at http://MesotheliomaVictimsCenter.com. Anyone wishing more information can call the Mesothelioma Victims Center anytime at 866-714-6466. Health care workers or physicians are encouraged to tell your patients about the Mesothelioma Victims Center.

Americas Watchdog and its Mesothelioma Victims Center are all about taking care of precious souls in need, and corporate responsibility.

Contact Information
THOMAS MARTIN
Americas Watchdog
Http://MesotheliomaVictimsCenter.Com
866-714-6466

Physician Office Program for COPD and Asthma Management

noreply@blogger.com (PPC Meso) — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 04:26:00 +0000

Angeion Corporation Launches Physician Office Program for COPD and Asthma Management

Company to Help Physicians Earlier Diagnose Respiratory Diseases that Affect More Than 25 Million Americans

ST. PAUL, Minn.-- June 02, 2008 --Angeion Corporation (NASDAQ: ANGN) today announced that it has launched its Physician Office Program for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma management. Through aggressive, targeted marketing efforts, Angeion will work to increase physician awareness of COPD and the company's non-invasive cardiorespiratory systems that facilitate early diagnosis-and treatment-of the condition.

COPD is characterized by progressive obstruction of the airflow of the lungs and increased shortness of breath-which is often not diagnosed until after some lung capacity is already lost. Diseases included under the umbrella of COPD include emphysema, chronic bronchitis, bronchiectasis and refractory asthma.

According to the COPD Foundation, an individual dies of COPD every 4 minutes in the United States. Currently, COPD is the fourth leading cause of death, and is expected to be the third leading cause by 2020. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that COPD and asthma affect more than 25 million Americans and result in more than 20 million physician office visits every year. Moreover, another 25 million Americans are believed to be either undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. Worldwide, an estimated 600 million people suffer from COPD.

"COPD is insidious, and it's affecting more and more people every year," said Rodney A. Young, Angeion's president and chief executive officer. "To date, Angeion's chief focus has been on bringing our cardiorespiratory technology and expertise to the hospital market. With today's announcement, we are broadening our approach across the healthcare continuum to reach more physicians who may see COPD patients. Through our Physician Office Program, it's our goal to work with the medical community to better educate and equip all physicians, regardless of specialty, to quickly and accurately diagnose the condition so that it can be treated earlier-resulting in more lives saved and less financial stress on today's healthcare system."

According to Young, Angeion's Physician Office Program reflects the company's commitment to early COPD detection. Specific components of the program include:

    * A significant marketing focus, redirecting existing resources to educate and inform physicians, from pulmonologists to general practitioners and internists, about COPD and Angeion's unique diagnostic product offering;
    * A comprehensive suite of educational and sales collateral materials; and
    * Cost-effective equipment leasing programs

Angeion's cardiorespiratory systems, and particularly its recently introduced Medical Graphics Platinum EliteT Series plethysmograph, provide the ability to effectively measure pulmonary function in the diagnosis of airway diseases, including COPD. In doing so, physicians benefit from:

    * Improved patient care-complete pulmonary diagnostic capability
    * Enhanced practice management-effectively and timely management of patients increases patient retention; and
    * Easy, rapid testing-physicians are able to perform a complete pulmonary function study in approximately 20 minutes.

Said Young, "Through our Physician Office Program we'll heighten awareness of COPD and give physicians the tools to quickly and effectively diagnose the disease, provide a new growth catalyst for the company, and most important, help save more lives."

About Angeion Corporation

Founded in 1986, Angeion Corporation acquired Medical Graphics Corporation in December 1999. Medical Graphics develops, manufactures and markets non-invasive cardiorespiratory diagnostic systems that are sold under the MedGraphics (www.medgraphics.com) and New Leaf (www.newleaffitness.com) brand and trade names. These cardiorespiratory diagnostic systems have a wide range of applications in healthcare as well as health and fitness. The Company's products are sold internationally through distributors and in the United States through a direct sales force that targets heart and lung specialists located in hospitals, university-based medical centers, medical clinics and physicians' offices, pharmaceutical companies, medical device manufacturers, clinical research organizations, health and fitness clubs, personal training studios, and other exercise facilities. For more information about Angeion, visit www.angeion.com.

The discussion above contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements by their nature involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Our actual results may differ materially depending on a variety of factors including: (i) our ability to successfully operate our business including our ability to develop, improve, and update our cardiorespiratory diagnostic products and successfully sell these products under the MedGraphics and New Leaf Fitness brand names into existing and new markets, (ii) our ability to establish our cost structure at a level that is appropriate to our near to mid-term revenue expectations that will enable us to increase revenues and profitability as opportunities develop, (iii) our ability to achieve constant margins for our products and consistent and predictable operating expenses in light of variable revenues from our clinical research customers, (iv) our ability to effectively manufacture and ship products in required quantities to meet customer demands, (v) our ability to expand our international revenue through our distribution partners and our Milan, Italy representative branch office; (vi) our ability to successfully defend ourselves from product liability claims related to our cardiorespiratory diagnostic products and claims associated with our prior cardiac stimulation products, (vii) our ability to protect our intellectual property, (viii) our ability to develop and maintain an effective system of internal controls and procedures and disclosure controls and procedures, and (ix) our dependence on third-party vendors.

Additional information with respect to the risks and uncertainties faced by the Company may be found in, and the above discussion is qualified in its entirety by, the other risk factors that are described from time to time in the Company's Securities and Exchange Commission reports, including the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended October 31, 2007.
Contacts

Angeion Corporation
William J. Kullback, 651-766-3492
SVP & Chief Financial Officer

Johns Hopkins Health Alerts Offers Heart-Smart Advice For Rheumatoid Arthritis

noreply@blogger.com (PPC Meso) — Tue, 27 May 2008 21:47:00 +0000

Rheumatoid Arthritis and Your Heart: Johns Hopkins Health Alerts Offers Heart-Smart Advice

Johns Hopkins Health Alerts reports on the latest findings on the causes of rheumatoid arthritis, and how it can affect your heart, leading to increased risk of heart attack and stroke, and thus decreased life expectancy.

New York, NY - March 18, 2008 -- In a recent issue of The Johns Hopkins Arthritis Bulletin, Johns Hopkins specialists reported on the latest research regarding the link between rheumatoid arthritis and heart health.

With rheumatoid arthritis, the inflammation that damages joints also takes a toll on the heart. Johns Hopkins specialists offer bottom line advice on how to adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle to combat the effects of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and its accompanying inflammation.

BEING HEART-SMART WITH RA
People with rheumatoid arthritis understandably focus on caring for their joints. But their most serious health risk involves their heart.

Compared to the general population, rheumatoid arthritis patients have a significantly increased risk of heart attack and stroke, and a shorter life expectancy.

RA AND YOUR HEART: THE RISKS
Here are some of the findings from recent studies about the link between rheumatoid arthritis and heart disease:

* Heart attacks are twice as common among women with rheumatoid arthritis as among those without the disease.
* Atherosclerosis ("hardening of the arteries") starts early and progresses more rapidly in people with rheumatoid arthritis.
* Carotid artery blockages (a risk factor for stroke) are three times more common in people with rheumatoid arthritis than in people without the disease (44% vs. 15%).
* Cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke, occur about 10 years earlier in people with rheumatoid arthritis.
* Mortality is higher among rheumatoid arthritis patients after a first heart attack.
* Blood vessel damage is often already apparent at the time of rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis.
* Heart attacks in rheumatoid arthritis patients are more likely to be silent or to occur without the typical symptoms, and they more often result in sudden cardiac death.
* Congestive heart failure (weakening of the heart's pumping ability) is more common among people with rheumatoid arthritis.
Researchers have identified several links between rheumatoid arthritis and cardiovascular disease. Inflammation is believed to be the most important of these.

THE ROLE OF INFLAMMATION IN ATHEROSCLEROSIS
Cardiologists now understand that inflammation plays a crucial role in the onset of atherosclerosis. They believe that an injury to the inner lining of the arteries (the endothelium) triggers an immune response, sending immune system cells rushing to repair the damage.

THE EFFECTS OF CHRONIC INFLAMMATION ON YOUR ARTERIES
But in chronic inflammatory states such as rheumatoid arthritis, the immune response doesn't shut off after the injury heals. The accumulating immune system cells attract deposits of cholesterol, blood platelets, cellular debris, and calcium, which clump together to form plaque.

As plaque deposits grow, they restrict blood flow through the artery. If the plaque ruptures, clots can break away and travel to the heart or brain, where they may cause a heart attack or a stroke.

BOTTOM LINE ADVICE: WHAT CAN YOU DO TO STAY HEART-SMART EVEN IF YOU HAVE RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
The relationship between rheumatoid arthritis and the heart is complex, and rheumatologists still have a great deal to learn about how to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease among people who have rheumatoid arthritis.

For now, it's important to do everything possible to reduce the traditional risk factors for heart disease and stroke:
smoking, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.

Getting regular exercise and losing extra pounds (even a 5-10% weight reduction is beneficial) will help your joints as well as your heart. Monitor your blood pressure and have your cholesterol levels checked regularly.

Also, ask your physician about the possibility of taking a low-dose aspirin each day to reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease.

In addition, the cholesterol-lowering medications known as statins--atorvastatin (Lipitor) and others--not only help the heart, but also have modest beneficial effects on rheumatoid arthritis-related inflammation. If your doctor hasn't already suggested a statin drug for your heart health, you might ask about it.

This information is exceprted from The Johns Hopkins Arthritis Bulletin:
Johns Hopkins Arthritis Bulletin

Johns Hopkins Health Alerts publishes free email newsletters on arthritis at:
Johns Hopkins Arthritis Health Alerts

And on heart health at:
Johns Hopkins Heart Health Alerts

For the latest research on Heart Health and Heart Attack Prevention, see the new 2008 Johns Hopkins White Paper: Heart Attack Prevention at: Johns Hopkins White Paper Heart Attack Prevention

To get a copy of the free special report "Johns Hopkins 7 Keys to Reduce Cholesterol," please visit:
Johns Hopkins 7 Keys to Reduce Cholesterol

Press Contact: JOAN MULLALLY
Company Name: Johns Hopkins Health Alerts
Phone: 917-640-4362
Website: http://www.johnshopkinshealthalerts.com

Center to Assist All Victims of Mesothelioma

noreply@blogger.com (PPC Meso) — Mon, 19 May 2008 03:03:00 +0000

Mesothelioma Victims Center to Assist All Victims of Mesothelioma

Americas Watchdog has created the Mesothelioma Victims Center as a free service to victims or family members of victims, of a rare form of cancer called Mesothelioma. Americas Watchdog has initiated this very complete free service because there was literally nothing close to this type of service in the United States and because this type of service is sorely needed by Mesothelioma victims and their families. The Mesothelioma Victims Center was created to assist victims & their families in every way possible.

April 16, 2008 -- Americas Watchdog has just opened its Mesothelioma Victims Center, as a way to assist and protect victims of a rare form of cancer called Mesothelioma. The service is free to Mesothelioma victims or their families.

Until a family member was diagnosed with Mesothelioma, Americas Watchdog had never heard of this disease or knew much about it. Mesothelioma is a rare and lethal form of cancer. Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos. The group never realized that there was no safety net for victims, to get help from the government. They did not know how difficult it might be to get veterans benefits or social security benefits. Americas Watchdog also discovered that it is critical for victims of this lethal disease to get proper legal representation. They have designed the Mesothelioma Victims Center to be the national advocacy center for the victims and family members of Mesothelioma.Their service is free.

Their services include:
* Assisting the victims obtain Social Security permanent disability payments
* If the victim is a veteran and was exposed to asbestos during military duty, we will work with the victim and his/her family in obtaining veterans disability and health care benefits.
* We will assist the family in getting the best possible health care options
* We will assist the victim in getting legal representation.
* We will assist the victim and their family in getting counseling on a wide variety of topics that arise from this disease. A victim of Mesothelioma or their family can call the group any time at 866-714-6466.

Who Can Get Mesothelioma?

* Individuals who served in the US Navy. Especially Navy personnel who served in or around naval ship engine rooms.
* Members of the US Army, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard.
* Naval shop yard workers
* Ship yard workers
* Automotive repair specialists
* Construction workers
* Plumbers
* Demolition contractors

Because no other group is providing this full range of services and because victims and their families need assistance in these areas, Americas Watchdog is doing this at no charge because its the right thing to do. Americas Watchdog's Mesothelioma Victims Center web site is located at Http://MesotheliomaVictimsCenter.Com . Any one wishing more information can call the Mesothelioma Victims Center anytime at 866-714-6466.

Americas Watchdog and its Mesothelioma Victims Center are all about taking care of precious souls in need and corporate responsibility.

Press Contact: THOMAS MARTIN
Company Name: Americas Watchdog
Phone: 866-714-6466
Website: http://MesotheliomaVictimsCenter.Com

Oral Cancer Now Covered under Specialty Benefits Dental Plans

noreply@blogger.com (PPC Meso) — Tue, 13 May 2008 17:08:00 +0000

`Early Warning' for Oral Cancer Now Covered under UnitedHealthcare Specialty Benefits Dental Plans

Coverage Applies to New Screening Test Used by Dentists

GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn.-- May 13, 2008 --UnitedHealthcare Specialty Benefits now provides coverage under all of its insured dental plans for a new oral cancer screening test for potential abnormalities inside the mouth, including premalignant lesions and oral cancer.

The test, which uses light-contrast technology, can improve a dentist's ability to identify, evaluate and monitor lesions that are difficult to see using visual inspection under conventional lighting.

"Evidence shows that dentists can serve as a valuable 'early warning' system for patients who have signs of oral cancer," said Dr. Michael Weitzner, vice president of clinical product development for UnitedHealthcare Specialty Benefits dental unit.

More than 34,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral or pharyngeal cancer this year. The death rate associated with this cancer is particularly high - not because it is hard to discover or diagnose, but due to the cancer being routinely discovered late in its development. Studies confirm that survival does correlate with stage, making early diagnosis and treatment optimal for this disease and may have a positive impact on an individual's medical costs (Journal of the American Dental Association, Vol. 132, Nov. 2001).

By covering this type of oral cancer screening, UnitedHealthcare Specialty Benefits dental unit is renewing its longstanding commitment to early detection of oral cancer. In addition to oral cancer screening, UnitedHealthcare Specialty Benefits dental plans have covered brush biopsies since 2005 when the American Dental Association first introduced a current dental terminology (CDT) code for the procedure. Screening is covered once a year for individuals, starting at age 30. UnitedHealthcare Specialty Benefits' focus on wellness continues to build programs and plan enhancements that promote individuals' ability to better manage their overall health as well as their future medical and dental costs.

About UnitedHealthcare Specialty Benefits

UnitedHealthcare Specialty Benefits offers a broad array of specialty benefits, including vision, dental, group and voluntary insurance, worksite individual insurance and non-insurance programs. UnitedHealthcare Specialty Benefits is a business unit of OptumHealth, the health and wellness unit of UnitedHealth Group, Inc. (NYSE:UNH). More information about OptumHealth can be found at www.optumhealth.com/.

Contacts

OptumHealth
Ann Fleischauer, Director, External Communications
763-797-2652

Practice-Changing Clinical Data Anticipated By Medtronic

noreply@blogger.com (PPC Meso) — Mon, 12 May 2008 14:11:00 +0000

Medtronic Anticipates 'Practice-Changing' Clinical Data for Interventional Cardiologists at EuroPCR

ENDEAVOR II Four-Year Results, Updated ENDEAVOR Pooled Safety Analysis, One-Year Results from E-Five Registry and TAPAS Trial - All Feature on Meeting's Scientific Program

MINNEAPOLIS-- May 12, 2008 --Medtronic, Inc. (NYSE:MDT), today announced plans for the release of new clinical data on the Endeavor® Zotarolimus-Eluting Coronary Stent System and the Export® Aspiration Catheter at EuroPCR in Barcelona this week, May 13-16.

"New data from the ENDEAVOR clinical program and the TAPAS trial have the potential to be practice-changing for interventional cardiology," said Prof. Anthony Gershlick of University Hospitals of Leicester in the UK. "As the evidence from this clinical research continues to build, it shows more and more definitively the advantages of the Endeavor drug-eluting stent for a broad range of patients with coronary artery disease and of thrombus aspiration with the Export Aspiration Catheter for a specific group of patients suffering myocardial infarction."

A summary of the data presentations related to Medtronic's product portfolio for interventional cardiology at EuroPCR follows:

    * On Tuesday, May 13, the late-breaking clinical trials session from 15:30 - 18:30 in Room 1 includes presentations by:

- Dr. Jean Fajadet (at approximately 15:45) of the four-year results from ENDEAVOR II, a prospective, randomized, multicenter, controlled trial that compared the Endeavor drug-eluting stent to the Driver bare-metal stent.

- Prof. Bart de Smet (at approximately 16:30) of one-year results from TAPAS, a single-center trial designed to evaluate the effect of thrombus aspiration preceding percutaneous coronary intervention by using the Export Aspiration Catheter in patients with acute myocardial infarction.

    * On Thursday, May 15, the Medtronic-sponsored symposium titled "Patients and Stents: Learning and Progress," 5:00 - 6:30 pm in Room 1, features presentations by:

- Prof. Martin Rothman on the one-year results of 8,300 patients in E-Five, an international registry that investigated the performance of the Endeavor drug-eluting stent in routine clinical practice.

- Prof. Ian Meredith on the updated ENDEAVOR pooled safety analysis, which includes 2,132 Endeavor patients (from ENDEAVOR I, II, II continued access, III and IV) - 678 of whom have now been followed for four years, 1,271 for three years, 1,290 for two and 2,093 patients for one year.

All times are local to Barcelona. Room numbers are for The Forum CCIB Convention Center, the venue for EuroPCR.

"The data we're presenting this week at EuroPCR illustrate the depth of innovation within the CardioVascular business at Medtronic and the growing breadth of our offering to interventional cardiologists," said Scott Ward, senior vice president of Medtronic and president of the CardioVascular business. "We are particularly excited to share the long-term results from the ENDEAVOR clinical program, which continue to illustrate significant performance advantages for patients and physicians, positioning Medtronic for market leadership in coronary stents."

In addition to attending these data presentations and other educational and scientific sessions, EuroPCR participants are encouraged to visit the Medtronic exhibit (booth #D04), which will feature highlights of the company's current and future cardiovascular innovations, including the:

    * Endeavor and Endeavor Resolute Zotarolimus-Eluting Coronary Stent Systems
    * Sprinter Legend Balloon Catheter
    * Export XT Aspiration Catheter
    * Defender Embolic Protection Filter
    * Complete SE (Self-Expanding) Peripheral Stent
    * Assurant Cobalt Balloon-Expandable Iliac Stent
    * Melody Transcatheter Pulmonic Heart Valve

Information on Medtronic's programs designed to foster "Innovation through Collaboration" in the fields of educational development (Academia) and clinical science (Scientia) will also be available at EuroPCR.

"As the trend of closer collaboration across medical specialties continues, our CardioVascular business is uniquely positioned to forge the partnerships necessary to find novel solutions to unmet patient needs," Ward added. "As the theme of our EuroPCR exhibit, 'Better Together,' suggests, we know from decades of experience the profound power of collaboration with the clinical community in the service of patients with chronic diseases."

About Medtronic

Medtronic, Inc. (www.medtronic.com), headquartered in Minneapolis, is the global leader in medical technology - alleviating pain, restoring health, and extending life for millions of people around the world.

Any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties such as those described in Medtronic's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 27, 2007. Actual results may differ materially from anticipated results.

Contacts

Medtronic, Inc.
Joe McGrath, 707-591-7367 (Public Relations)
Jeff Warren, 763-505-2696 (Investor Relations)

Costs For Pharmacy and Over-The-Counter Drugs Reduced

noreply@blogger.com (PPC Meso) — Tue, 06 May 2008 21:51:00 +0000

Target Reduces Costs on Pharmacy and Over-The-Counter Drug Offerings

MINNEAPOLIS-- May 05, 2008 --As part of its ongoing commitment to provide exceptional value to guests and consistent with prior practices, Target (NYSE:TGT) will reduce prices on its prescription and over-the-counter drug offerings, remaining competitively priced with Wal*Mart.

"We understand the economic challenges our guests are facing and remain committed, as always, to meeting their health and wellness needs at a great value," said Kathee Tesija, executive vice president, merchandising.

The program includes an expanded assortment of $4 prescription drugs, 90-day supply of these medications for $10 and over-the-counter medications for $4 or less.

More information regarding eligible drugs soon will be available online at Target.com/pharmacy and in local Target pharmacies.

About Target

Minneapolis-based Target serves guests at 1,613 stores in 47 states nationwide by delivering today's best retail trends at affordable prices. Target is committed to providing guests with great design through innovative products, in-store experiences and community partnerships. Whether visiting a Target store or shopping online at Target.com, guests enjoy a fun and convenient shopping experience with access to thousands of unique and highly differentiated items. Target (NYSE:TGT) gives more than $3 million a week to its local communities through grants and special programs. Since opening its first store in 1962, Target has partnered with nonprofit organizations, guests and team members to help meet community needs.

Contacts

Target Corporation
Target Communications (media), 612-696-3400
or
John Hulbert (investors), 612-761-6627

Deep Brain Stimulation Study Offers Hope for Severe Depression Patients

noreply@blogger.com (PPC Meso) — Mon, 05 May 2008 22:41:00 +0000

Results of Brodmann Area 25 Deep Brain Stimulation Pilot Study Offer Hope for Patients with Severe Depression

Study findings presented today at American Psychiatric Association Annual Meeting

ST. PAUL, Minn.-- May 05, 2008 --St. Jude Medical, Inc. (NYSE:STJ) today announced pilot study results from the first multi-center study investigating deep brain stimulation (DBS) of Brodmann Area 25 for major depressive disorder.

Results of the study, which were presented today at the American Psychiatric Association (APA) meeting in Washington, D.C., found that 6 months after the procedure, 56 percent of the patients experienced at least a 40 percent decrease in depressive symptoms. Patient's symptoms were measured using a standardized test called the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression.

Results were presented by Sidney Kennedy, M.D., psychiatrist-in-chief with the University Health Network in Toronto. "Severe depression destroys a person's ability to be productive and have a normal quality of life," said Dr. Kennedy. "The results from this study are very promising, and we are hopeful that our research will lead to a therapy that can help these patients."

Prior to beginning the study, all patients were classified as having severe depression after multiple treatments - such as medications, psychotherapy and electroconvulsive therapy - had failed to provide sustained relief from depression. Each study patient had tried a minimum of 12 depression medications over his or her lifetime.

DBS was targeted at an area of the brain known as Brodmann Area 25, which appears to become overactive when people are profoundly sad and depressed. Conducted at three leading Canadian academic medical centers, the study expands and supports the groundbreaking research of Helen Mayberg, M.D., and Andres Lozano, M.D., which was published in Neuron in March 2005.

On average, the 20 study participants had suffered from depression for more than 20 years; they were disabled and unable to work at the time of enrollment. The study also found that:

    * At their most recent psychiatric evaluation, 78 percent of the patients experienced at least a 40 percent decrease in depressive symptoms.
    * Three of the study patients are considered to be in remission.
    * Eight patients have re-engaged in life activities such as work, school, relationships and travel.

In the study, DBS was delivered through the St. Jude Medical Libra® Deep Brain Stimulation System, which delivers mild electrical current from a device implanted near the collarbone; the device is connected to small electrical leads placed at specific targets in the brain.

"These results are important as they help establish the body of evidence that will continue to move depression research forward," said Chris Chavez, president of the St. Jude Medical ANS Division. "We are committed to leading the development of products that can make life better for patients suffering from this debilitating condition."

Based on the results of this research, St. Jude Medical announced the BROADENT (BROdmann Area 25 DEep brain Neuromodulation) study in February 2008, to further investigate the use of DBS for major depressive disorder. A controlled, multi-center, blinded clinical study, BROADEN is being conducted in the U.S. under an Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

St. Jude Medical owns the intellectual property rights and has various patents issued and pending for the use of neurostimulation at Brodmann Area 25. For more information about this clinical trial, call toll-free 866-787-4332 or visit www.BROADENstudy.com.

According to the National Advisory Mental Health Council, of the 21 million adult Americans who suffer from depression, approximately 4 million live with severe depression that does not respond to medications, psychotherapy and, in certain cases, electroconvulsive therapy.

About St. Jude Medical

St. Jude Medical is dedicated to making life better for cardiac, neurological and chronic pain patients worldwide through excellence in medical device technology and services. The Company has five major focus areas that include: cardiac rhythm management, atrial fibrillation, cardiac surgery, cardiology and neuromodulation. Headquartered in St. Paul, Minn., St. Jude Medical employs more than 12,000 people worldwide. For more information, please visit www.sjm.com.

About the ANS Division of St. Jude Medical

The ANS Division (Advanced Neuromodulation Systems) became a part of St. Jude Medical in 2005. The ANS Division is an innovative technology leader dedicated to the design, development, manufacturing and marketing of implantable neuromodulation systems to improve the quality of life for people suffering from disabling chronic pain and other nervous system disorders (www.ans-medical.com).

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that involve risks and uncertainties. Such forward-looking statements include the expectations, plans and prospects for the Company, including potential clinical successes, anticipated regulatory approvals and future product launches, and projected revenues, margins, earnings, and market shares. The statements made by the Company are based upon management's current expectations and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include market conditions and other factors beyond the Company's control and the risk factors and other cautionary statements described in the Company's filings with the SEC, including those described in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on February 27, 2008 (see Item 1A on pages 13-20, and page 20 of Exhibit 13 to the Company's Form 10-K). The Company does not intend to update these statements and undertakes no duty to any person to provide any such update under any circumstance.

Contacts

St. Jude Medical, Inc.
Investor Relations:
Angela Craig, 651-481-7789
or
Media Relations:
Kathleen Janasz, 651-415-7042
Mobile: 612-743-8995
or
Denise Landry, 972-309-8085

Infectious Disease Research Institute Collaborates With 3M On Vaccine Adjuvants

noreply@blogger.com (PPC Meso) — Fri, 02 May 2008 02:57:00 +0000

3M Collaborates with Infectious Disease Research Institute on Vaccine Adjuvants

ST. PAUL, Minn.-- May 01, 2008 --3M Drug Delivery Systems announces the signing of a non-exclusive license agreement with the Infectious Disease Research Institute (IDRI) in support of vaccine research for humanitarian efforts in developing countries. Under the agreement, 3M will donate its patented toll-like receptor (TLR) immune response modifier compounds.

3M's patented TLR immune response modifier compounds, which may be useful as vaccine adjuvants, will be used by IDRI to research new vaccines. Vaccine adjuvants are known to help boost the effectiveness of a vaccine.

"IDRI's vaccine platform has the potential to prevent and treat a number of important diseases in the developing world. By providing our vaccine adjuvant compounds to their vaccines, we are providing a cost-effective way for IDRI to conduct vaccine research," said Dr. Mark Tomai, PhD, Vaccine Business Development, 3M Drug Delivery Systems. "This will help them and us learn more about the potential effectiveness of our vaccine adjuvants. We anticipate this collaboration with IDRI to be the first in many deals around our TLR vaccine adjuvant portfolio."

3M's TLR compounds, also called TLR7 and TLR8 agonists, are small organically synthesized molecules that offer flexibility in formulating and route of delivery, and ease in manufacturing, unlike most other TLR agonists, which are much larger and not as easy to manufacture.

"IDRI's access to a 3M compound provides us with a very important tool for our efforts to develop adjuvants to be used in vaccines for diseases of global impact," says Steve Reed, IDRI's Founder and Head of Research. "We are very pleased that 3M has demonstrated this confidence in our organization-and are confident that IDRI's access to the 3M technology will improve our vaccine research and development."

"Our toll-like receptor agonist platform is a major part of our vaccine offering that also includes our Microstructured Transdermal System(a) for needle-free delivery of vaccines. We are at the start of a positive relationship that pairs our unique technology with a critical global need. We look forward to working with IDRI on its vaccine research," said Dr. Steven Wick, Technical Director, 3M Drug Delivery Systems.

About 3M Drug Delivery Systems Immune Response Modifiers

3M Drug Delivery Systems has a portfolio of patent protected toll-like receptor TLR7 and TLR8 agonists that have shown promise as vaccine adjuvants. There are a variety of assets in the portfolio that can be used topically, admixed or in conjugatable form. The lead candidate, resiquimod (TLR7/8 agonist) has shown promising results in a number of animal models and has an extensive toxicology and clinical data package to support further development as a vaccine adjuvant. In addition, 3M offers other TLR7 and TLR8 agonists, some of which can be attached to various proteins that enhance vaccine efficacy in a number of models. As small molecules, 3M's TLR7 and TLR8 agonists offer unique advantages over other TLR agonists with regards to delivery and manufacturing. 3M is actively seeking partners to license these assets on a non-exclusive basis. For more information, or to contact Dr. Tomai, go to www.3m.com/dds.

In addition, 3M Drug Delivery Systems has a variety of immune response modifier compounds that may be useful in oncology and dermatology.

About 3M

A recognized leader in research and development, 3M produces thousands of innovative products for dozens of diverse markets. 3M's core strength is applying its more than 40 distinct technology platforms - often in combination - to a wide array of customer needs. With $24 billion in sales, 3M employs 75,000 people worldwide and has operations in more than 60 countries.

About IDRI

IDRI is a non-profit organization committed to developing technologies to treat "neglected" diseases that place a significant burden on those living in the developing world. IDRI achieves its mission by working closely with industry, universities, and hospitals in developed and developing countries, government and private funding agencies, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation as well as the World Health Organization. For more information, go to www.idri.org.

(a)3M Microstructured Transdermal System (MTS) is a state-of-the-art solid microneedle system for transcutaneous or intra-dermal drug delivery. MTS bypasses the barrier properties of the stratum corneum and provides a means to deliver a wide variety of molecules that ordinarily would not penetrate the skin, including vaccines. MTS enhances the efficacy of vaccines by targeting the antigen presenting cells within the skin, thereby improving delivery efficiency and reducing dose requirements. MTS is a painless, easy-to-use system with the potential to greatly improve the delivery of vaccines.
Contacts

3M
Stephanie Sanderson, 651-733-8588
sjsanderson@mmm.com

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