March 1, 2019 Recent News

Healthcare

Hospitals

Malpractice

Healthcare

Scott Gottlieb, the head of the FDA, is warning states that are too lax on the exemptions for parents to opt out of vaccinations.  He has threatened to use federal power if the states do not tighten up their exemptions.

Medical records are being stolen by the millions from EHR hacking and sell for about $1000 each on the dark web.  They contain the patient's SSN, credit card information and history.  A dream for a crook.      Top  

Hospitals

Bangor Maine's Northern Light Eastern Maine Hospital is losing one of the perks of having a child there.  In past times the pediatricians of the Penobscot Pediatrics would come see their newborns and do the checkups and make the follow-up appointments.  that is to change as the groups can make much more money in their offices than doing well baby exams in the hospital.  The hospital says not to worry as family physicians and the neonatologists can fo the job.  It is a downgrade.

Cedars Sinai Hospital is doing something interesting.  They have a pilot of 100 rooms outfitted for Alexa.  This will allow patients to have hands free communication as well as working the TV.  If they need to go go the bathroom they just speak it and the nurse is notified.  If the request is not acknowledged in a reasonable time the request goes up the chain of command.  Can you imagine the CEO getting the message?        Top

Malpractice

The Democratic Pennsylvania Supreme Court has agreed to continue the process of no venue shopping in the state.  They were going to allow it again after 17 years but the GOP state senate objected strongly so the court backed down.         Top 

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 DISCLAIMER: Although this article is updated periodically, it reflects the author's point of view at the time of publication. Nothing in this article constitutes legal advice. Readers should consult with their own legal counsel before acting on any of the information presented.