Many in healthcare continue searching for ways to tie payments to high-quality care, while reducing costs. A recently published essay in the New England Journal of Medicine outlines several ways to do this, including episode-based payments and "the medical home."
Doctors are sometimes accused of malpractice, whether they've done something wrong or not. There is an expectation in cases where a patient does poorly that the doctor should have done more. However, sometimes things gone wrong no matter what you do.
Bayer HealthCare AG has acquired DIREVO Biotech AG, a German biotech company, strengthening its "research competence" in biologicals in the pharmaceutical division of Bayer Schering Pharma. The deal is expected to be closed by the end of the month.
The National Institute of Mental Health has decided to end a study of chelation, a controversial treatment to treat autism that some say is unethical. The government agency will instead fund other potential therapies for the disorder.
Aurora Health Care's Chief Operating Officer Don Nestor has announced plans for retirement, effective Dec. 31. Nestor will continue serving as the health system's president and CEO, and will also be a consultant for several ongoing construction projects.
The National Committee for Quality Assurance has awarded Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield's HMO Colorado Inc. with an excellent accreditation status. The company's rating was based on a review of how the health plan ensures high quality healthcare for its members.