Advise Med http://www.advisemed.com Medical Advices Wed, 27 Aug 2008 13:16:23 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.5.1 en Consumer Reports Health News http://www.advisemed.com/consumer-reports-health-news.html http://www.advisemed.com/consumer-reports-health-news.html#comments Wed, 27 Aug 2008 13:16:23 +0000 admin http://www.advisemed.com/consumer-reports-health-news.html NEW YORK, July 28 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — Welcome to Consumer Reports health News for health and medical journalists. Consumer Reports and ConsumerReportsHealth.org cover issues pertaining to the efficacy and safety of prescription and non-prescription drugs (including natural medicines), mental health, diet and nutrition, food safety, and fitness. CR tests health and fitness products, rates the effectiveness and affordability of prescription drugs, and evaluates the claims made by drug companies and the health care industry — all without commercial agendas or advertiser influence.
GRILLING BASICS: DON’T CHAR THE MEAT
The August issue of Consumer Reports explains why it’s so important to avoid charring meat when barbecuing beef, chicken, lamb, pork and fish. Overcooking, burning and charring can transform amino acids and other natural substances into compounds called heterocyclic amines, or HCAs, which have been shown to cause cancer in laboratory animals. Some studies suggest that ingesting these and other compounds might increase the risk of breast, colon, pancreatic, prostate, and stomach cancer. Some ways to limit exposure:
Turn the heat down. Whether you grill, pan fry, or oven-roast meats, cook at a temperature below 325 degrees.
Marinate the meat. Marinating food before grilling can greatly reduce HCA formation.
Don’t cook directly over the flame. Fat or marinade dripping on briquettes or gas flames creates flare-ups that contribute to HCAs and form other potential carcinogens that stick to the surface of food as char or ash.
For the full report, log on to .

GENERIC DRUGS VERSUS BRAND NAMES: THE DIFFERENCE

The difference between generic drugs and brand name ones is that there is very little difference. Soon after the antidepressant bupropion XL came on the market last year, some patients complained on the Internet that it didn’t work as well as the brand name version, Wellbutrin XL. Generic drugs are required to have the same active ingredients as the original versions, but can contain different inactive ingredients. That can alter how they look and taste, which some people don’t like. A small number of people may also have unexpected reactions to those inactive ingredients. The bottom line: Keep open the lines of communication with your doctor. Switching from any medication — brand to generic, generic to brand, or brand to brand — should be done with care. Read the full report online at .
TAKE THE WATER CHALLENGE
Walking, running, or lifting weights in a pool is often safer than doing it on land, and water offers a challenge to the muscles which have to work against buoyancy, or the tendency to float. That’s an advantage for those with back or joint problems, and people who are frail, overweight, or pregnant.
Another advantage of working out in a pool is that the experience is cooling, energizing, and, because of the buoyancy, literally uplifting. So aquatic exercises can seem less tedious and draining than their gravity-bound counterparts. CR recommends ways to find an aquatic exercise class ? checking with the local YMCA, community center, or private fitness center. It pays to observe a class or try one out before making a commitment. For more information about water workouts, log on to .
A MULTITASKING MULTIVITAMIN?
“Worried about cholesterol? Well, now you can lower it,” promises a TV ad for Centrum Cardio. The two-a-day, multivitamin/multimineral supplement contains phytosterols, natural ingredients derived from soybeans that “can lower cholesterol,” the ad claims, and “may reduce the risk of heart disease” when taken with a diet that is low in saturated fat and cholesterol. Medical experts consulted by Consumer Reports said Centrum Cardio is possibly beneficial, along with changes in diet and exercise, for reducing elevated cholesterol levels. But they recommended consulting a health-care professional to establish overall coronary risk and to develop treatment goals, which might or might not include supplements or prescription medication. Log on to for the complete report about Centro Cardio.
The material above is intended for legitimate news entities only; it may not be used for commercial or promotional purposes. Consumer Reports on Health(R) is published by Consumers Union, an expert, independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to work for a fair, just, and safe marketplace for all consumers and to empower consumers to protect themselves. To achieve this mission, we test, inform, and protect. To maintain our independence and impartiality, Consumers Union accepts no outside advertising, no free test samples, and has no agenda other than the interests of consumers. Consumers Union supports itself through the sale of our information products and services, individual contributions, and a few noncommercial grants.
Consumer Reports

]]> http://www.advisemed.com/consumer-reports-health-news.html/feed Update: Kicking Into High Gear: Nation’s Largest Bike-Sharing Program Debuts at Democratic National Convention http://www.advisemed.com/update-kicking-into-high-gear-nations-largest-bike-sharing-program-debuts-at-democratic-national-convention.html http://www.advisemed.com/update-kicking-into-high-gear-nations-largest-bike-sharing-program-debuts-at-democratic-national-convention.html#comments Tue, 26 Aug 2008 13:15:31 +0000 admin http://www.advisemed.com/update-kicking-into-high-gear-nations-largest-bike-sharing-program-debuts-at-democratic-national-convention.html DENVER, Aug. 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Bike-sharing officially rolled into Denver today as Mayor John Hickenlooper launched the nation’s largest bike-sharing program to date: Freewheelin. Leading 100 cyclists through the streets of Denver, Mayor Hickenlooper celebrated this joint program between Humana and the nonprofit cycling advocacy group, Bikes Belong. Freewheelin is bringing 1,000 bikes to Denver and to Minneapolis-St. Paul for the Democratic and Republican conventions, highlighted by free use for all participants. Registration for bikes is available at .
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“We hope that as the spotlight shines bright on Denver and Minneapolis-St. Paul during the next two weeks, we can show bikes as a pathway for healthy bodies, healthy spirits and a healthier planet,” said Jonathan Lord, M.D., Humana’s chief innovation officer.
Tim Blumenthal, executive director of Bikes Belong, added that, “The time is right to highlight the bicycle as an ideal transportation solution. Nearly 40 percent of all trips Americans make are two miles or less — the perfect length to go by bike. With soaring gas prices, interest in bicycling as a U.S. transportation solution has grown. This is a perfect opportunity to demonstrate the convenience of bicycling for short trips.”
Dr. Julie Gerberding, Director of the Centers for Disease Control, also spoke highly of the Freewheelin initiative.
“Biking is fun, and this innovative program from Humana and Bikes Belong provides an excellent way for people to exercise, and we all know exercise is critical to protecting one’s health. I encourage everyone planning to attend the conventions to strap on a helmet and safely pedal their way to good health during their stay in Denver or Minneapolis-St. Paul.”
Bike-sharing is the international social movement whereby bikes are situated at designated stations throughout cities for individuals to use for a specified amount of time. It is a viable transportation alternative for those who prefer an environmentally friendly, cost-effective and healthy means of traveling, especially for short trips. By providing these bikes to the Democratic and Republican convention cities, Humana and Bikes Belong hope to increase awareness of bicycling in the minds of all involved with the conventions — from the delegates to the media to even the presidential candidates themselves.
After its debut in Denver, Freewheelin moves on to the Republican National Convention in Minneapolis-St. Paul, where Humana and Bikes Belong also will provide 1,000 bikes for free use. In total, Bikes Belong member companies provided more than $500,000 worth of biking equipment to both convention cities.
How Freewheelin Works
Bikes will be available in Denver from Aug. 25-28; and in Minneapolis-St. Paul for the Republican convention from Sept. 1-4. Participants who register in advance via the Freewheelin Web site — — will be ready to check out a bike from one of the multiple bike stations throughout the convention cities. Online registration and use of the bikes during the conventions is free, with all related costs paid by Humana and Bikes Belong. Bikes will be available beginning at 7 a.m. each day of the conventions, and don’t have to be returned to a bike station until 7 p.m. each day. The bikes can be picked up and returned to any station (locations available at the freewheelinwaytogo Web site).
Those interested in the program, but unable to register online, can also register in person at any Freewheelin station. Greeters will be on site at each bike station to assist with registration and route planning, and safety specialists will be available to answer questions and address concerns.
Humana pioneered the bike-sharing program in 2007 in its corporate hometown of Louisville, Ky. The initiative focuses on fun as well as health by encouraging people to get on a bike and ride with friends, just like when they were kids. Twenty-one percent of those riding were not previously involved in exercise activity.
A ‘Bike-Partisan’ Challenge
On July 30 in Washington, D.C., Reps. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR-3), James Oberstar (D-MN-8), Thomas Petri (R-WI-6) and Zach Wamp (R-TN-3) issued a spirited challenge to attendees at the political conventions: join together in the Freewheelin bike-sharing initiative to generate 10,000 rides and bike 25,000 miles at the conventions.
With on-bike computers that track mileage and the ability to compute calories burned and carbon reduction for each cyclist, Humana will have metrics available following the conventions to measure participants’ progress toward the “bike-partisan” challenge.
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 , 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

About Bikes Belong

Bikes Belong is the U.S. bicycle industry organization dedicated to putting more people on bicycles more often. Bikes Belong Coalition works to increase federal bike funding, awards grants to support innovative bike projects, promotes bicycling and its benefits, and sponsors key initiatives such as the National Bike Summit. The affiliated Bikes Belong Foundation focuses on improving bicycle safety, enhancing children’s bike programs, and making communities friendlier for bicyclists by backing national efforts such as Safe Routes to School and Bicycle Friendly Communities.

Humana

]]> http://www.advisemed.com/update-kicking-into-high-gear-nations-largest-bike-sharing-program-debuts-at-democratic-national-convention.html/feed MDdatacor Extends Contract with Wellmark, Inc. http://www.advisemed.com/mddatacor-extends-contract-with-wellmark-inc.html http://www.advisemed.com/mddatacor-extends-contract-with-wellmark-inc.html#comments Mon, 25 Aug 2008 18:16:34 +0000 admin http://www.advisemed.com/mddatacor-extends-contract-with-wellmark-inc.html ATLANTA, July 25 /PRNewswire/ — MDdatacor, Inc., a leader in health care quality management solutions for health plans and providers, today announced it has entered into a long-term agreement with Wellmark, Inc. to continue to support Wellmark’s Collaboration on Quality(SM) Incent and Reward Best Practices initiative, a collaboration between Wellmark and primary care clinicians to promote improved quality health care and increased efficiency.
Wellmark, Inc. does business as Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Iowa. Wellmark and its subsidiaries and affiliated companies, insure or pay health benefit claims for more than two million members in Iowa and South Dakota.
For the past two years, the innovative arrangement between Wellmark and MDdatacor has enabled participating clinicians to enhance their focus on improving health outcomes for diabetic and hypertensive patients, and has now expanded to include asthma, childhood immunizations, and cancer screenings.
MDdatacor has been working with Wellmark since 2006 to support initiatives that promote quality health care and increased efficiency. MDdatacor’s proprietary CareInformatix(TM) technology collects and analyzes claims and physicians’ clinical data from a variety of sources, and in turn, provides physicians with reports that identify patients whose current treatment does not achieve evidence-based guidelines. MDdatacor is currently the only company able to provide its customers with both claims and comprehensive clinical data, making the data more accurate, timely and, ultimately, valuable.
According to Timothy G. Roche, co-founder, president and chief executive officer of MDdatacor, the willingness of physicians to use the MDdatacor Web-based decision-support tools can be attributed to the fact that the data is derived from their own patient records in the form of transcribed notes, electronic medical records and lab results.
“MDdatacor has been fortunate to work with such an innovative health plan that sees the value of going beyond the medical claims data and utilizing clinical data to provide physicians with actionable information at the point-of-care, which has led to tremendous improvements in patients’ health,” said Roche.
MDdatacor recently conducted a study of more than 9,000 Wellmark diabetic patients, analyzing both process and outcomes measures as outlined in evidence-based guidelines. The study measured the percentage increase in patients receiving an annual HbA1C, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and blood pressure tests, as well as the improved clinical outcomes as measured by lowered test scores for each of those measures. The company plans to publish a white paper detailing the results of the study in the near future.
MDdatacor facilitates physician-centric disease management, focused on non-compliant patients as measured against evidence-based guidelines. As a result, physicians have the information they need on their entire patient population to proactively manage patient care.
“The expansion of MDdatacor’s relationship with Wellmark clearly shows the significance of this unique approach to improving patient outcomes, which has proven to be not only successful but also more cost-effective than traditional disease management methods,” said John S. Watts, Jr., MDdatacor executive chairman.
About MDdatacor
Established in 2001 and headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, MDdatacor enhances healthcare quality through the development of innovative technology solutions. MDdatacor solutions are used to support quality improvement, health information exchange and Patient-Centered Medical Home initiatives. MDdatacor currently serves more than 7,000 physicians representing more than seven million patients.
About Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield
Wellmark, Inc. () does business as Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Iowa. Wellmark and its subsidiaries and affiliated companies, including Wellmark of South Dakota, Inc. does business as Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield of South Dakota and Wellmark health Plan of Iowa, Inc., insure or pay health benefit claims for more than two million members in Iowa and South Dakota. Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Iowa, Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield of South Dakota, and Wellmark health Plan of Iowa, Inc. are independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
Contact:
Heather McLarney
(866) 460-5681

MDdatacor, Inc.

]]> http://www.advisemed.com/mddatacor-extends-contract-with-wellmark-inc.html/feed National Medical Association Kicks Off 2008 Annual Convention With Program to End Childhood Obesity http://www.advisemed.com/national-medical-association-kicks-off-2008-annual-convention-with-program-to-end-childhood-obesity.html http://www.advisemed.com/national-medical-association-kicks-off-2008-annual-convention-with-program-to-end-childhood-obesity.html#comments Mon, 25 Aug 2008 18:16:33 +0000 admin http://www.advisemed.com/national-medical-association-kicks-off-2008-annual-convention-with-program-to-end-childhood-obesity.html WASHINGTON, July 24 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — The National Medical Association (NMA) will kick off the 2008 Annual Convention and Scientific Assembly with a health initiative, Walk a Mile with a Child to fight childhood obesity on Saturday, July 26 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Ga.
Walk a Mile with a Child is a one-mile walk and 5K run for men’s health that culminates in a health festival with free health screenings, provided by PEACE of Heart campaign, as well as information on healthy living, free giveaways and school supplies. The walk and health festival will take place on July 26 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
This year’s theme, “Elimination of health Disparities through History and the Collaboration of health Professionals” marks the NMA’s 106th annual convention and return to its birthplace in Atlanta, Ga.
As the NMA’s premier medical science and health event, the convention is expected to draw thousands of attendees nationwide and will take place from July 26-31, 2008. The six-day event features an array of plenary sessions, scientific presentations and a continuing medical education program and unites some of the most prominent medical scholars, scientists, practitioners, government experts and health care advocates from around the country.
“This year’s convention is part of a broader national effort to combat health disparities in all communities,” said Nelson L. Adams, M.D., NMA president. “NMA has been on the frontlines fighting health disparities for many decades and our goal this year is to bring together our partners to work together as one unit to improve the health of all Americans.”
Confirmed speakers include: Mayor of Atlanta, Shirley Franklin; philanthropist, Camille Cosby; Super Bowl Champions, Jerome Bettis and Nathanial Wayne; former Surgeon General and Director of the Center for Excellence on health Disparities, David Satcher, M.D., Ph.D.; U.S. Representative Elijah Cummings (D-MD); President, American Academy of Pediatrics, Renee Jenkins, M.D.; Immediate Past President, Ronald M. Davis, M.D. and President-Elect, J. James Rohack, M.D.; Acclaimed actress, Phylicia Rashad; Today Show Contributor, Janet Taylor, M.D.; and Chairman and President of the Dikembe Mutombo Foundation, Dikembe Mutombo.
As one of the best national forums on African-American health and medicine, the convention plenary sessions and forums explore critical health disparities and policy issues.
Convention Highlights

Saturday, July 26, 2008

— Walk a Mile with a Child
Georgia World Congress Center
7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

— Walk a Mile with a Child Press Conference 9:00 a.m. - 9:15 a.m.

Key Plenary Sessions

Saturday, July 26, 2008

— Edward C. Mazique, M.D. Symposium,
U.S. health Care Reform-Are We Asking the Right Questions?
Kenneth E. Thorpe, Ph.D., Robert W. Woodruff Professor
1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.

Sunday, July 27, 2008

— HIV/AIDS Plenary Session
HIV/AIDS in the African America Community: From Crises to Calamity
9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.

Monday, July 28, 2008

— Medical Missions and Global Health
9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.

— Katrina Impact on Gulf Coast: Recovery & Remediation
LTG (Ret) Russell L. Honore
2:45 p.m.-3:15 p.m.

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

— American Cancer Society/National Medical Association
Collaboration in Addressing Cancer Disparities
9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

— Satcher health Leadership Institute
Mental health in the Black Family
3:05 p.m.-5:05 p.m.

For more information, contact Lanni Thomas, 404-502-9109 or Alisa Mosley 240-350-7531.
About the National Medical Association
Founded in 1895, the NMA is a nonprofit organization that is the nation’s oldest and largest medical association representing the interest of more 30,000 African American physicians and their patients. The NMA advocates health care for policies that would assure equitable and quality health care for all.
National Medical Association

]]> http://www.advisemed.com/national-medical-association-kicks-off-2008-annual-convention-with-program-to-end-childhood-obesity.html/feed Schiff Nutrition Unveils Move Free(R) Advanced Triple Strength Plus MSM & Vitamin D http://www.advisemed.com/schiff-nutrition-unveils-move-freer-advanced-triple-strength-plus-msm-vitamin-d.html http://www.advisemed.com/schiff-nutrition-unveils-move-freer-advanced-triple-strength-plus-msm-vitamin-d.html#comments Mon, 25 Aug 2008 18:16:33 +0000 admin http://www.advisemed.com/schiff-nutrition-unveils-move-freer-advanced-triple-strength-plus-msm-vitamin-d.html SALT LAKE CITY, July 24 /PRNewswire/ — Schiff(R) Nutrition International, one of the most trusted and respected brands in the nutritional supplement industry for more than 70 years, announced the launch of Move Free(R) Advanced Triple Strength plus MSM(1) & Vitamin D as the newest addition to the Move Free(R) Advanced joint health line. This formulation is packaged in a blue box and is now available in stores.
The blue box formula has the “Advantage of 4″ — glucosamine, chondroitin, Uniflex(R) and Joint Fluid — plus MSM and Vitamin D.
Vitamin D helps overall bone health and joint movement in two significant ways: first, it helps bones absorb calcium better and second, it helps bones retain the calcium already in them. “As we age, our bones lose calcium and since our joints are attached to and supported by bone, it is important to address each issue,” noted Luke Bucci, Ph.D., Vice President of Research, Schiff(R) Nutrition International. “In addition, to further maintain joint health, MSM, an important part of joint cartilage, has been added to also improve joint comfort.”
Schiff(R) Move Free(R) Advanced’s Triple Strength formula with the “Advantage of 4″ starts to comfort sore joints in less than seven days, and is clinically tested.(2) Here’s how it works:
— Glucosamine strengthens and rebuilds joints.
— Chondroitin lubricates and cushions joints.
— Joint Fluid helps lubricate, rejuvenate and rehydrate joints.
— Uniflex(R) protects joints from radical oxidants that accelerate the
breakdown of cartilage and other tissues.

Dr. Bucci is excited about the new Triple Strength formula with MSM & Vitamin D. “We are committed to addressing our customers’ joint health needs and are pleased to add this new formulation to the Move Free(R) Advanced line. And for those who want to take fewer pills per day and get the added benefit of both MSM and Vitamin D, the blue box is the one for you.”
About Schiff Nutrition International and Move Free(R) Advanced
Move Free(R) Advanced is a dietary supplement for joint health from Salt Lake City-based Schiff(R) Nutrition International, one of the most trusted and respected brands in the nutritional supplement industry, having provided consumers with pure and high quality nutrition products for more than 70 years. Schiff(R) guarantees the purity and potency of its products with stringent quality controls at every point throughout the sourcing, manufacturing, packaging and distribution processes. For more information, visit .
(1) MSM, methylsulfonylmethane (METH-el-sul-FON-il-METH-ane), is a naturally-occurring nutrient found in small amounts of many foods.
(2) Independent human clinical study (Los Angeles, 2008).
Schiff Nutrition International

]]> http://www.advisemed.com/schiff-nutrition-unveils-move-freer-advanced-triple-strength-plus-msm-vitamin-d.html/feed Men’s Health Urbanathlon & Festival Returns to Chicago This Fall http://www.advisemed.com/mens-health-urbanathlon-festival-returns-to-chicago-this-fall.html http://www.advisemed.com/mens-health-urbanathlon-festival-returns-to-chicago-this-fall.html#comments Mon, 25 Aug 2008 18:16:32 +0000 admin http://www.advisemed.com/mens-health-urbanathlon-festival-returns-to-chicago-this-fall.html CHICAGO, July 24 /PRNewswire/ — Men’s health will host its annual signature event, the Men’s health Urbanathlon and Festival, on Saturday, Oct. 18 in Chicago. The event, now in its second year in Chicago is currently open for online registration at .
The Urbanathlon event combines traditional road race elements with obstacle course components against the backdrop of iconic city landmarks, taking on Chicago’s local flavor. The event includes a day-long festival that features live entertainment, health and wellness expos, interactive sports and concessions, as well as samplings and demonstrations by a range of vendors.
Race highlights in Chicago include Urbanathletes weaving up and down the bleachers at Soldier Field and crawling through culverts at Navy Pier.
The Dodge brand, featuring the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram 1500, will serve as the presenting sponsor for the 2008 event.
“The Urbanathlon series has grown exponentially in the past three years since its debut in New York,” said Jack Essig, VP/Publisher of Men’s Health. “In addition to Chicago, the brand has now expanded into an international presence with race events in the UK and Mexico. We’re pleased that the popularity of this event with both consumers and advertisers has allowed us to grow the multiplatform franchise into a global integrated marketing event.”
“The Urbanathlon is the ultimate endurance challenge that truly showcases the skills of each competitor, a perfect alignment with the improved capability and performance of the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram,” said Mark Spencer, Senior Manager - Dodge Communications. “This year’s Urbanathlon coincides with the launch of the new Ram, allowing us to connect with our target consumers and engage them at the grass-roots level participating in activities that they are passionate about.”
Crunch, the Official Gym Partner for the Urbanathlon series, has also extended its partnership with the event and has created the Official Urbanathlon Training Program Powered by Crunch, to be offered in Crunch fitness facilities nationwide. The custom-branded “Urbanathlete” class will be offered to registered racers in the weeks prior to race days. The collaboration with Men’s health also includes a free month-membership and three complimentary personal training sessions. Other sponsors secured so far include Redken, BSN, and Colorado Board of Tourism.
Again this year, the Challenged Athletes Foundation will be a beneficiary of the race. Participants can sign up for the Men’s health Mission to raise funds for CAF at menshealthurbanathlon.com.
Aura360 will again provide professional event execution for the Urbanathlon events in both New York and Chicago.
About Men’s health ()
Men’s health is the largest men’s lifestyle magazine brand in the world with 38 editions worldwide. Published 10 times a year in the U.S. by Rodale, Men’s health is the best-selling men’s magazine on newsstands, each month providing its 11 million readers with the latest information on all aspects of a guy’s life including health, fitness, fashion, nutrition, relationships, travel, technology and finance. The magazine has garnered numerous accolades in the industry including several appearances on Advertising Age’s “A List”, Adweek’s “Hot List” and Capell’s Circulation Report, which recently named the magazine “Best Newsstand Performer of the Decade.” In 2007, Men’s health Editor-in-Chief David Zinczenko was named “Editor of the Year” by Adweek magazine shortly after the title secured the top spot on their “Brand Leaders Hot List” in 2006. The magazine has also received a National Magazine Award in the personal service category. In 2004, Men’s health launched Best Life, the fastest-growing magazine for discerning, accomplished men and also publishes several branded books, DVDs, special interest publications and the online subscription service .
About Dodge
The Dodge brand’s first crossover vehicle — the all-new 2009 Dodge Journey — arrived in dealer showrooms in the first quarter of 2008, and will be available outside North America in petrol and diesel powertrains in both left- and right-hand drive in mid-2008. Arriving in the spring will be the limited-edition 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 with a 6.1-liter HEMI(R) V-8 engine that boasts 425 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque. Later in 2008, Dodge will add three more new vehicles to its product lineup — the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram with game-changing exterior and interior design, innovations, best-in-class features and craftsmanship; the all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger, a modern interpretation of the American muscle car; and the 2009 Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid, a hybrid-electric vehicle that combines fuel efficient advanced hybrid technology with full-size SUV performance and capability. Last fall, America’s best-selling minivan, the all-new 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan, was introduced with 35 new or improved features including the newest innovation, the Swivel ‘n Go(TM) seating system. In 2007, Dodge sold 33,500 commercial vehicles, a 285 percent increase over 2003 when the company returned to the commercial vehicle market and is now the sixth largest manufacturer of commercial vehicles sold in the U.S. Also in 2007, the Dodge Avenger and Nitro entered key volume segments outside North America, joining the Dodge Caliber, the highest sales volume vehicle for the company outside of North America.
Men’s Health

]]> http://www.advisemed.com/mens-health-urbanathlon-festival-returns-to-chicago-this-fall.html/feed HTH Worldwide to Provide International Health Guide to Living Abroad.com http://www.advisemed.com/hth-worldwide-to-provide-international-health-guide-to-living-abroadcom.html http://www.advisemed.com/hth-worldwide-to-provide-international-health-guide-to-living-abroadcom.html#comments Mon, 25 Aug 2008 18:16:31 +0000 admin http://www.advisemed.com/hth-worldwide-to-provide-international-health-guide-to-living-abroadcom.html RADNOR, Pa., July 24 /PRNewswire/ — HTH Worldwide, a global health and safety services company, today announced that it will begin offering its CityHealth(R) Profiles to Living Abroad.com and its multi-national employer clients. HTH’s CityHealth Profiles are fact-filled online guides to trusted medical care in hundreds of destinations around the world. Living Abroad offers online tools and destination-driven information for those living overseas or about to be assigned abroad on topics such as health services, schools, housing, neighborhoods as well as local transportation, culture and customs.
Through a new partnership with HTH, Living Abroad is distributing profiles of hospitals, clinics and pharmacy practices in over 700 international locations to dozens of multi-national corporations seeking to reduce the strain of relocating abroad and to improve the likelihood of assignments succeeding. Living Abroad offers online tools and databases to help international employees make good choices when it comes to housing, schools and healthcare providers. HTH’s CityHealth Profiles database, which also covers emergency numbers, vaccination requirements and health risks — is the featured content in Living Abroad’s health services section of its International Resource Center.
“Our clients look to us for accurate, up-to-date information on local health providers and health risks all around the world,” said Michael Cadden, Managing Director of Operations for Living Abroad LLC. “HTH Worldwide’s dedication to creating a comprehensive and up-to-date database of global health and safety information gives our clients an important new resource. We are confident in the quality of this carefully researched data and look forward to a long and beneficial partnership with HTH.”
“Living Abroad is an organization with an excellent reputation for providing high-quality online resources to those overseas on extended assignments,” said Angelo Masciantonio, Chief Executive Officer of HTH Worldwide. “We are pleased to provide them with the best global health and safety information.”
About Living Abroad
Founded in 1990, Living Abroad provides comprehensive, quality and up-to-date country information, resources and tools to help long-term international assignees assimilate into their host country environment with ease and excitement. First as a publisher of printed country information, Living Abroad, LLC went online in 1997 and has steadily expanded the number of destinations available and added new online tools for their clients and their assignees. Living Abroad, LLC is privately held and has offices in Norwalk, CT, USA and Belgium.
About HTH Worldwide
HTH Worldwide provides health insurance plans and global medical assistance services for business and leisure travelers as well as students abroad. HTH programs are distinguished by a contracted community of over 5,000 hospitals and doctors in 180 countries. HTH combines its health and safety research, advanced Internet applications, and extensive experience in designing and delivering international health insurance plans to ensure customers’ health, safety and peace of mind. HTH was recently named one of North America’s fastest growing companies in Deloitte’s Technology Fast 500. For more information, visit .
Contact: Cass Oryl
215.564.3200 x116

HTH Worldwide

]]> http://www.advisemed.com/hth-worldwide-to-provide-international-health-guide-to-living-abroadcom.html/feed MediVoice(R) Partners With VisionTree(R) to Integrate Its Voice-Activated e-Prescribing Solution Into VisionTree’s VTOC(TM) Web-Based Patient Management System http://www.advisemed.com/medivoicer-partners-with-visiontreer-to-integrate-its-voice-activated-e-prescribing-solution-into-visiontrees-vtoctm-web-based-patient-management-system.html http://www.advisemed.com/medivoicer-partners-with-visiontreer-to-integrate-its-voice-activated-e-prescribing-solution-into-visiontrees-vtoctm-web-based-patient-management-system.html#comments Mon, 25 Aug 2008 18:16:30 +0000 admin http://www.advisemed.com/medivoicer-partners-with-visiontreer-to-integrate-its-voice-activated-e-prescribing-solution-into-visiontrees-vtoctm-web-based-patient-management-system.html WHITE PLAINS, N.Y., July 24 /PRNewswire/ — MediVoice(R), LLC, the world’s first mobile voice-activation solution for e-Health and e-Prescribing, has formed a strategic partnership with VisionTree(R), a leading provider of interactive, web-based, patient-centered health record management and provider communication systems to integrate and market its mobile voice-activation solution with the VisionTree Optimal Care(TM) (VTOC) system.
“MediVoice is pleased to develop a strategic partnership with VisionTree. We are impressed with their web-based technology and the value it brings to physicians and patients,” said Anthony Milone, MediVoice, LLC, Board Member and Managing Director.
VisionTree customers will be able to utilize MediVoice’s software platform to access the SureScripts(R) network for e-Prescribing and e-Health management. MediVoice provides the world’s first commercially available mobile voice-activated e-healthcare solution. MediVoice utilizes the most innovative technology in speech solutions. It allows healthcare professionals to voice-activate electronic prescriptions, electronic medical records, and a wide variety of e-health services. The use of e-Prescribing has been shown to reduce medical errors, reduce medical and administrative costs, and improve the efficiency and documentation of the medication prescription process.
Martin Pellinat, CEO of VisionTree Software, said “The VisionTree Optimal Care(TM) (VTOC) platform is used by over 70 leading academic and community sites around the country for web-based patient communication and data management. With the ability for physicians to launch a voice-activated e-Prescribing solution, we have expanded the VTOC patient management system to not only include the patient’s health record, e-communication and disease management, but also include the ability for physicians to deliver the highest level of efficiency and quality care to their patients.”
Ed Zecchini, COO & CTO of MediVoice adds, “The ease of use of a voice solution will be the driving force for rapid deployment, adoption and utilization of the VisionTree Optimal Care(TM) system and MediVoice’s electronic prescriber.”
“VTOC helps both healthcare consumers and providers,” said Martin Pellinat, CEO of VisionTree. “The system empowers patients to provide important feedback directly with their physician electronically, as well as build their own personal health record to help make the best decisions at the most critical times. VTOC will also serve as the vehicle to transform the medical industry into a true paperless environment, increasing staff’s productivity and data gathering capabilities to effectively measure patient satisfaction. With more than 100,000 users, VTOC is improving the way healthcare is offered.”
About VisionTree(R) Software
VisionTree Software, Inc. is the leader in web-based, patient-centered health record management, communication and data collection systems. VisionTree’s Healthcare Solutions consist of VisionTree Optimal Care(TM) or VTOC, VisionTree MOC Online(TM) and VisionTree Clinical Trials(TM) for Web-based data collection, efficient workflow, as well as improved communication, documentation and quality of care. VisionTree’s customer base consists of leading academic and community healthcare organizations across the country. For more information, visit .
About MediVoice(R)
MediVoice provides the world’s first commercially available mobile voice-activated e-healthcare solution. The company enables stakeholders in the healthcare industry to have a low-cost, rapidly deployed solution for its caregivers. Utilizing the most innovative technology in speech solutions, MediVoice allows healthcare professionals to voice-activate electronic prescriptions, electronic medical records, and a wide variety of e-health services. For more information, visit .
(C) 2008, MediVoice, LLC. All Rights Reserved. VisionTree is a trademark of VisionTree Software, Inc. in the United States.
Contact:
MediVoice, LLC
Anthony Milone
(914) 328-3402

MediVoice, LLC

]]> http://www.advisemed.com/medivoicer-partners-with-visiontreer-to-integrate-its-voice-activated-e-prescribing-solution-into-visiontrees-vtoctm-web-based-patient-management-system.html/feed CVS/pharmacy Makes Medication Management Easy with the Introduction of the New CVS.com http://www.advisemed.com/cvspharmacy-makes-medication-management-easy-with-the-introduction-of-the-new-cvscom.html http://www.advisemed.com/cvspharmacy-makes-medication-management-easy-with-the-introduction-of-the-new-cvscom.html#comments Tue, 19 Aug 2008 13:16:05 +0000 admin http://www.advisemed.com/cvspharmacy-makes-medication-management-easy-with-the-introduction-of-the-new-cvscom.html WOONSOCKET, R.I., July 23 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — CVS/pharmacy, the nation’s largest retail pharmacy, announced today that it is launching a new CVS.com that improves access to medications by making it easier than ever for consumers to manage their prescriptions online. The site offers new prescription management features, personalized medication profiles, information on drugs including cost-saving generic alternatives, and health and wellness information.
CVS/pharmacy is relaunching the site in an effort to better serve its customers who are looking for more ways to take control of their well-being. “Now more than ever, patients are taking an active role in managing their health,” said Helena Foulkes, senior vice president, health services for CVS Caremark. “The new CVS.com offers the tools for customers to handle their pharmacy health care in a way that is easy and convenient, such as renewing a prescription without having to have a prescription vial in hand or arranging a pickup location that is closer to home.”
Upon registration, customers have access to their full CVS/pharmacy prescription history. Key features of the new CVS.com site allow customers to:
— View and print their prescription history
— Order refills directly from a prescription history
— Choose or change a pickup location
— Receive reminders when it’s time to refill a prescription
— Request a prescription renewal
— Be alerted to generic alternatives
— Transfer prescriptions from another pharmacy

Better medication management can lead to better health outcomes for patients. Research shows that as many as 50% of those with chronic disease stop taking their medication within the first year. By offering tools for patients to more easily manage their prescriptions online, CVS/pharmacy is hoping to increase the number of on-time medication refills and help promote cost-saving generic alternatives.
For busy families, the new CVS.com also provides parents the option to manage their children’s prescriptions online. Having access to a full prescription history is valuable for patients to review with their doctor, or to track FSA spending for tax purposes.
Future functionality of CVS.com will allow integration with Personal health Records through Google health and Microsoft HealthVault.
“This is the next step in the evolution of pharmacy health care,” said Foulkes. “If you start with a great relationship at the pharmacy counter and make it easy for people to deal with their medications online, they’ll do their part in keeping themselves and their family healthy.”
About CVS/pharmacy
CVS/pharmacy, the retail division of CVS Caremark Corporation , is America’s largest retail pharmacy with 6,300 retail locations. CVS/pharmacy is committed to improving the lives of those we serve by making innovative and high-quality health and pharmacy services safe, affordable and easy to access, both in its stores and online at CVS.com. General information about CVS/pharmacy and CVS Caremark is available at .
Investor Contact:
Nancy Christal
Senior Vice President
Investor Relations
(914) 722-4704

Media Contact:
Eileen Howard Dunn
Senior Vice President
Corporate Communications
(401) 770-4561

CVS/pharmacy

]]> http://www.advisemed.com/cvspharmacy-makes-medication-management-easy-with-the-introduction-of-the-new-cvscom.html/feed HHS Secretary Leavitt Travels to Alaska to Advance Rural Health Initiatives http://www.advisemed.com/hhs-secretary-leavitt-travels-to-alaska-to-advance-rural-health-initiatives.html http://www.advisemed.com/hhs-secretary-leavitt-travels-to-alaska-to-advance-rural-health-initiatives.html#comments Mon, 18 Aug 2008 13:15:31 +0000 admin http://www.advisemed.com/hhs-secretary-leavitt-travels-to-alaska-to-advance-rural-health-initiatives.html WASHINGTON, July 22 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — U.S. Department of health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Mike Leavitt is visiting southern Alaska this week to strengthen efforts to enhance health care delivery to Alaska Native communities and to observe best practices in the region.
The three-day trip, which begins today, includes visits to two Alaska Native villages and two regional Tribal health consortiums to better understand the challenges of access to care; meetings with Tribal leaders to discuss the health care goals of the Alaska Native people; and demonstrations of how telemedicine and telehealth are employed to increase access and quality of care to Alaska Native communities.
The use of telemedicine and telehealth is making an important impact on improving access to health care in rural Alaska. Telemedicine is being used to exchange medical information from one site to another via electronic communications to improve patient health. Telehealth is the use of electronic information and telecommunications technologies to support long-distance clinical health care. By utilizing telemedicine and telehealth, patients who live in rural Alaska have better and timely access to critical care through medical specialists, such as cardiology, pediatrics and radiology.
“While Alaska faces unique access to care challenges, the health care delivery systems in place serve as model of effective telehealth and telemedicine for other rural communities,” Secretary Leavitt said. “I look forward to continuing my work with local, state, and tribal leaders to address barriers and increase access to care.”
Secretary Leavitt will also meet with health care providers, employers, and insurers to discuss the health care challenges in Alaska and the transformation of the current health system into a system that delivers high quality care at low cost. This bold vision for the health care system includes advancing interoperable health information technology; measuring and publishing price information to give consumers information they need to make better decisions on purchasing health care; measuring and publishing quality information to enable consumers to make better decisions about their care; and promoting incentives for quality and efficiency of care.
On Thursday, Secretary Leavitt will present Acting health Commissioner Bill Hogan the National President’s Challenge Award. Alaska was one of five states which had the highest participation rates in the nation based on population. The National President’s Challenge, which kicked off March 20 and concluded May 15, was a six-week program launched by the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports to encourage Americans to be more active. Participants were able to register as individuals or with a team and set goals, log their activity and track their progress. To complete the challenge, participants 18 and older needed to be active 30 minutes a day, while youth aged 6-17 needed to be active an hour a day.
Note: All HHS press releases, fact sheets and other press materials are available at .
U.S. Department of health and Human Services

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