While implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) have been known to reduce mortality rates in patients, an analysis of four manufactured devices published in the December edition of the Heart Rhythm Journal found that upgrades to these devices are needed in order to further improve patient care.

Clinicians are in data overload and the potential exists for this information excess to stall decision-making, thereby negatively impacting patient care. The solution is to provide the right information at the right time to the right caregiver. Advanced wireless technologies are at the forefront of helping physicians and allied staff better handle the enormous amount of continually flowing patient data, as well as to communicate throughout the enterprise with patients and staff.

Theyre here, theyre there, theyre everywhere. Mobile workstations, or computers on wheels (COWs), provide access to data all over the hospital, including the ED, ICU and OR, and can be used to move, store and place items, and chart patient information more accurately.

Boston Scientific has reached an agreement in principle with the U.S. Department of Justice (DoJ) related to product advisories issued by its Guidant subsidiary in 2005. The company noted that the alleged conduct and product sales occurred prior to Boston Scientific's 2006 acquisition of Guidant.

Consumer advocacy organization Consumer Watchdog issued a letter last week chastising the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for its interpretation of security protocols for personal health records (PHRs). The Washington D.C.-based nonprofit organization is seeking to repeal the HHS interpretation and properly implement what Congress enacted.

Due to stronger sales, Boston Scientific has booked large (unaudited) net gains in the 2009 third quarter, which ended Sept. 30.

A report by the New York City-based Commonwealth Fund Commission has found there is a significant difference between the access, quality and cost of healthcare across state lines and that healthcare disparities among states continue to widen.

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association (BCBSA) has begun re-evaluating its security policies after a laptop containing sensitive BCBSA data concerning physicians was stolen in August from an employees car.