A neglected area of discussion in home care is the relationship and dissonance between evidence-based research on effective home and community-based interventions, Medicare home health practice, and the Medicare Home Health Prospective Payment System (PPS). PPS is critical because the literature increasingly indicates that the PPS reimbursement framework drives home health agency and practitioner resource allocation and practice decisions. However, the PPS system does not have an evidence-based evaluation process to evaluate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of new, or existing, intervention. The article reviews existing evidence-based research on the effectiveness of home-based environmental skills building, counseling, and support group interventions, which benefit patients, caregivers, home health agencies, and Medicare. The article indicates these interventions have never been evaluated, nor are they covered by Medicare. The article asserts the need for such an evaluation process to evaluate intervention cost-effectiveness and related changes in Medicare coverage, eligibility, reimbursement, and outcomes measurement criteria necessary for their adoption.

With the rate of diabetes increasing in the elderly, home health care agencies must creatively approach disease management in this high-risk population. Specialized training programs, standardized policies and procedures, and strategic staffing patterns support agencies to systematically and effectively manage diabetes in the home. Collaboration with endocrinology providers assists agencies to incorporate and appropriately use national standards in diabetes care. Additionally, home health partnership with endocrinology providers will enhance a disease management program with increased provider participation and oversight, improving patient clinical outcomes and serving as a resource for home health agencies managing patients with diabetes.

As union organizing of home health agencies increases, many agencies will be asked by a union to enter into a "neutrality agreement" with the union. Whether to agree to such an agreement is a very significant decision for an agency. It requires an agency to understand how such an agreement affects the unionization of its employees and the agency's own goals with regard to unionization.

As of summer 2008, health care reform has become an important part of the 2008 presidential election. However, long-term care has been absent in the discussion of health care reform by presidential candidates. This article examines policies that govern the payers of long-term care, specifically home health care (HHC). HHC is the fastest growing industry within long-term care, as there is a growing number of older adults in need of both skilled and unskilled home care. Medicare and Medicaid are the two major payers of HHC; yet these payers do not address the psychological and social needs of the patients. Furthermore, there is a long-term care disconnect between Medicare and Medicaid that creates even larger problems for older adults in need of long-term care.

The practice implications of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services hospital payment policy change are likely to influence the relationships between home health care agencies and their referring/receiving hospitals. Maintaining infection control measures can be difficult in the home environment, which was not designed for health care provision and where family members, friends, and pets are present. In addition to the hospital payment changes, there have been epidemiologic changes, with increasing recognition of multidrug resistant organisms and increasing virulence. The purpose of this article is to identify the scope of the practice changes that might be expected in response to epidemiologic and policy changes and activities that home health care agencies can undertake in response. Increased calls for transparency, accountability, and high-quality care, along with threats of denied reimbursement, will force changes across the entire continuum of care.

Over the past 20 years, state mental health agencies have shifted the bulk of funding for community mental health services to the federal-state Medicaid program. Over this same period, states adapted their Medicaid programs to more comprehensively address the service needs of people with mental illness. Adopting the financing mechanism that primarily funds other health care for low-income people moves mental health more toward the mainstream. But it is a policy with risks. Changes to Medicaid are now outside the purview of those most concerned with mental health issues. In 2006, Congress radically altered Medicaid, making fundamental changes to the law. These were soon followed by further proposed shifts in federal administrative policy. This article describes these federal policy changes and assesses their impact on individuals and on state mental health policy. (It should be noted that most administrative changes have since been halted by the Obama Administration).

This week's look at the midweek EMS news starts off with a look at a slew of ambulance involved MVAs this week. One accident involved a unit that crossed the center line and struck a pickup truck head on. In a related story, the Victoria Paramedic Union in Australia stated that unless paramedics there were given more rest time between shifts, they were in danger of having accidents on duty due to fatigue. Finally, a MedicCast kudos to Georgia paramedic Dori Wood on her winning of the Region V medal of valor.  Dori descended into a 40 foot well to treat and help extricate a woman who had fallen down into the well. Visit The MedicCast Podcast Site Now! Thanks to our sponsor, Lexi-Comp for their support of the MedicCast News. Visit www.lexi.com/mediccast to sign up to win an iPod touch or free Lexi-Comp on-hand software.

This is the MedicCast News a midweek news program with EMS news and commentary from Jamie Davis, the Podmedic the host of the MedicCast Podcast at MedicCast.com.This week's news items lead off with a look at a New York police department's program to teach scene safety to emergency responders. Next up is a story that has Cleveland Ohio EMS officials investigating possible cheating on a paramedic exam. 27 Paramedics have been brought in to testify in front of the Grand Jury about the cheating.  Finally, a big thank-you to our dispatchers. This is Telecommunicators Week is happening and we need to remember our 911 operators and dispatchers.Thanks to Lexi-Comp for sponsoring the show. Go to www.Lexi.com/mediccast to find out how to win an iPod Touch and free Lexi-Comp Software.

This week's midweek EMS news for EMTs and Paramedics takes a look at several stories featuring paramedics in the news. First, one paramedic has developed a website that features a way for people to test their CPR skills online and eventually with a lot less time and expense than the 4 hour courses offered now.Next, a segment about Columbus, Ohio discussion on doing away with ALS ambulance care altogether in an effort to save the city 6.5 million dollars of the city budget.Finally, a look at the recent FDA warning against 14 drug companies whose internet ads don't contain the necessary risk warnings for consumers.This episode is sponsored by Lexi-Comp. Check out their excellent mobile drug guides and more at www.lexi.com/mediccast and make sure you register to win an iPod touch while you are there.Visit the MedicCast EMS podcast site at MedicCast.com.

This week's midweek look at the EMS news for EMTs and Paramedics kicks off with a look at a great public relations article in a Delaware newspaper.  It educates the public about the scope and mission of the local volunteer fire company and is a great example of the type of news article I think could be used in many communities.Next up, a follow up to a recent story I covered over at the main MedicCast.com site and podcast last weekend.  Right after I talked about dog bites and warm weather, a story about a 4 year old bitten by a pit bull cropped up.Finally, a look at breach of confidentiality issues as 15 people were fired in California after they looked at the Octuplet mom's patient records when they had no reason to do so. Thanks to our sponsor:Try Lexi-Comp for the mobile drug and medical information tools you need. Visit www.lexi.com/mediccast. Visit The MedicCast Podcast Site Now!  

This week, a Massachusetts study released findings that 75% of all first responder candidates (EMS and Firefighters) were overweight or obese.  Other stories covered in this episode include a look at a tragic story of an attack on a paramedic in Scotland that prevented care getting to an elderly woman in cardiac arrest.  We also talk about patient refusals in light of actress Natasha Richardson's death last week following a ski accident and refusal of care or transport while vacationing in Canada. Thanks to Lexi-Comp for sponsoring the show.  Visit www.Lexi.com/mediccast to find out more about their innovative mobile products for first responders at all levels. While you're there, register to win free software or an iPod Touch!

This week's midweek EMS news for EMTs and paramedics from the MedicCast community features three stories about EMS in the news.The first story looks at the economics of the recession with regard to ERs and hospital overcrowding. The University of Tennessee Medical Center is predicting more ER overcrowding due to lost benefits and other economic impacts from the recession.Next, a look at one way to alleviate ER overcrowding with diversionary transport to non-urgent care in clinics and primary care centers.  This could be accomplished with a new breed of ambulances built for non-emergency transport rather than 911 services.Finally, a look at the new man at the helm of FEMA.  Former Florida Emergency Management Director Craig Fugate has been named the new FEMA director by President Obama.  Hopefully this will turn around the 8 year decline of what was once a shining example of efficiency in large scale emergency response.Thanks to Lexi-Comp (www.lexi.com/mediccast) for their generous sponsorship of the is program.  Try out the brand new Lexi-Tox product built just for use by emergency responders in the field in the face of overdoses and poisonings.  Find out more and register to win an iPod Touch at www.lexi.com/mediccast Visit us at MedicCast.com for updated EMS study aids and tips.

This week's MedicCast News features a look at several mid-week news items. First off, a look at another high school EMS, Fire, and Rescue training program in Virginia. Next, a great article about an Firefighter/EMT who got to participate in a briefing with the president and his advisors on what is broken in U.S. healthcare.  Finally, a look at a report from the Maryland House of Delegates that seems to save the state medevac system intact and safe from for profit hospital programs looking for a piece of the action.Find more great stories like this one and the longer, EMS tip-filled MedicCast at MedicCast.com.Thanks to Lexi-Comp for their generous sponsorship. Visit www.Lexi.com/mediccast to learn about their pocket software and register to win an iPod Touch and other great prizes.

This week's midweek look at EMS news for Paramedics, EMTs and other medical providers in the emergency services starts off with a crazy driving story with some audio of the police radio report on a woman breast feeding while driving. Other news includes a look at a neat promotion and service to the EMS and hospital employees from a Tax Prep company, plus a paramedic who loses his thumb to an attacker as thanks for intervening in a domestic dispute. Visit The MedicCast Podcast Site Now! Thank you to www.lexi.com/mediccast for sponsoring the show this week.  Visit the link above for an opportunity to win a free ipod touch or Lexi-Comp software.

The MedicCast News midweek news outlook for EMS responders looks at a story about non-transport services billing complaints for ambulance response, continuing problems for New Orleans hospitals following the Katrina disaster - years later, and a view from above on Tennessee EMS and Fire squabbles in one county there.Thank you to www.lexi.com/mediccast for sponsoring the show this week.  Visit the link above for an opportunity to win a free ipod touch or Lexi-Comp software.

As the responders to the tornadoes in Oklahoma take care of the injured and misplaced there, it is important to take a moment and make sure that our own homes are prepared for disasters. We also, look at improvements in ambulance response times for one suburban community in Tennessee served by Rural/Metro ambulance under contract. We have to be responsive to the needs of our communities if we want to improve our chances of increased pay and opportunities in EMS.  This is true whether we are paid, volunteer, or government employed. Finally, a big thumbs up to South East Ambulance Service in the U.K. for their recognition recently for their improved stroke care initiatives.Thanks for Lexi-Comp for their generous support of this show.  Visit www.Lexi.com/mediccast for a chance to win an iPod Touch and free Lexi Solutions software.

A couple of good EMS news items this week for the MedicCast News.  First of all, an alarming story out of Japan about a trauma patient who died after waiting an hour while 14 hospitals refused to treat him.  Plus a look at another great CPR training initiative from Connecticut and a letter to the editor from British Columbia, Canada on why paramedics there need better pay.For more EMS news, commentary, and medical tips and reviews, visit Mediccast.com.  Thanks to our sponsor's Lexi-Comp.  Register to win an iPod Touch and more at www.Lexi.com/mediccast.

Midweek emergency medical services news for EMTs and paramedics from the makers of the MedicCast EMS podcast at MedicCast.com. This week we look at the loss of airport paramedics in Pittsburgh due to budget cutbacks, grants from pet supply companies supporting pet EMS supplies in some agencies, and a review of reasons to prepare for winter storm diversions and hospital planning for disaster situations. Visit The MedicCast Podcast Site Now!

The MedicCast News for this week looks at the Colorado fake paramedic and his guilty plea, a report on what is being called "sloppy" air traffic controllers leading Maryland medevac crash last year, and a look at one EMS director's bold plan to teach 50% of his county's population CPR. All on this week's midweek EMS news show from the producers of the MedicCast podcast for EMTs and Paramedics. Visit The MedicCast Podcast Site Now!

This week we'll look at EMS news from around the world including patient and bystander bad behavior, EMT road safety, and EMS public outreach. In Australia, a patient attacked an ambulance with rocks this past week.  In Delaware, the man accused of a hit and run accident that killed an EMT is charged with murder. And a final story about an EMS service offering free blood pressure checks for residents on a regular basis. All of these stories from the producers of the MedicCast EMS podcast for emergency medical technicians, emt-i, and paramedics. The MedicCast News is a proud member of the ProMed Network of medical podcasts.

Midweek look at the EMS news from the producers of the MedicCast emergency medical services podcast for emts and paramedics.  This week's show looks at a Hamilton Massachusetts police department that allegedly falsified emt class records for its officers, more from the embattled Washington, D.C. Fire Department with complaints that the EMT test is too hard to pass, and a look at Oklahoma EMS services amidst the national article on EMS provider sex offenders. Visit The MedicCast Podcast Site Now!

This week's midweek EMS news features a look at a fundraiser for a fallen paramedic in Maryland.  We'll also talk about some recent stories internationally including a story about Calgary, Canada's EMS crews on Red Alert following a winter storm that added so many trips to their call volume that no units were available for transport for nearly two hours.  There is also a story about a hunting accident in New Zealand and we wrap up with a look at a ridiculous policy on Red Light Cameras in Denver, Colorado. Visit The MedicCast Podcast Site Now!

This week for the midweek MedicCast News, we cover stories about AEDs and CPR training in Minnesota high schools.  Jamie Davis, the Podmedic also takes a look at a unique hazard simulator being tested to train responders on hard to train-for incidents like chemical spills and major casualty incidents.  Finally, a look at a recent study on how major news outlets get the story wrong and mislead the public about medical studies and their outcomes. Visit The MedicCast Podcast Site Now!

A look at a possible strike between crews and AMR in Vegas, an ambulance fire raises concerns over the nation's ambulance fleet maintenance, and a look at recognizing 20 years of service in your community. Visit the MedicCast podcast site for updates, news, commentary, and the longer format MedicCast every weekend at MedicCast.com.

The midweek look at the EMS and medical news for the week of November 13, 2008.  Included in this week's show a look at a tragic story about a Virginia EMT who died during a training exercise, a story about New Jersey considering state wide EMS protocols and training requirements, and how the State of California get's 5 million people to participate in a disaster drill. Visit The MedicCast Podcast Site Now!

This week's midweek EMS news looks at several articles from around the world.  First a look at a patient in the UK with a severe arterial bleed who was refused transport because he was too bloody.  Next up, a look at released figures on the costs associated with diabetes treatment.  Finally, I wrap up with a news item on the top 10 myths about colds and flu. Check out the MedicCast podcast each weekend.  It's the hour long medical podcast for EMTs, paramedics, and other medical professionals with news, commentary, medical tips and more from the experts at the MedicCast Network.

This week's show leads off with a story out of San Antonio, Texas looking at changes in their fire department EMS response limiting the dispatch of ambulances.  We also take a look at two studies about doctors underestimating their patient's medical knowledge and understanding. Sad news on more EMS line of duty deaths this week with five providers dying in three separate incidents, two of the incidents related to helicopter accidents.  Finally, a wrap up with the new CPR instructional song of choice, Stayin' Alive by the Bee Gees.  This song just about perfectly matches the rate needed for good quality CPR compressions, not to mention the title lends a bit to the endeavor. Visit The MedicCast Podcast Site Now!

This week's show for EMS news for EMTs and paramedics leads off with a look at a question and answer session about a local fire department's involvement in EMS.  I talk about how this kind of story is good for EMS and emergency response systems. Next, I look into how the Maryland State Police are requiring recertification into instrument landing procedures for their medevac pilots.  Is this too little, too late? Finally, what about Physio-Control?  I explain what their current consent decree means for your local service and their AEDs and defibrillators. Check out the MedicCast Podcast each weekend at MedicCast.com.

The recent crash of a Maryland State Police helicopter has called into question the need for medevac transport at the current rate as well as the safety records of the nation's aeromedical transport services. Also a lawsuit against Massachusetts EMTs and Australia looks at increasing penalties for assaults on ambulance officers. We also look at a study that ties the risk for developing a drinking disorder in adulthood to the age a person first starts drinking. Visit the MedicCast.com site for the longer and feature packed MedicCast Weekly Podcast with news, commentary, tips, and meds!

This week's news items lead off with a story from the New York Times business section looking at the increased cost of healthcare affecting many Americans while the Congress tries to bailout billionaires on Wall Street. Next up, a look at two EMS discipline items in the news.  One, a cautionary tale about how you can't expect your company to stand behind you in the face of funding your retirement.  You might just get fired like an Arizona paramedic did.  He was let go just 6 months short of his retirement following a 2 year suspension while appealing the wording of a disciplinary action in his file.The second story follows up on a story covered here at the beginning of the year when a 24 year old woman was erroneously pronounced dead at the scene of a motor vehicle accident.  Following a final investigation, the two senior paramedics on the scene who failed to follow up on initial responders findings as additional resources arrived have been suspended for 6 months and assigned additional continuing education training.  Double, triple, quadruple check those DOAs, folks!Don't forget to visit the MedicCast website for more news, commentary, articles, and the full length, one hour MedicCast program each Sunday night.

The midweek news this week leads off with a story from Arizona about a talented dog that dialed 911 for his owner who was having a seizure.  Next up, a look at the increase in fuel prices causing response concerns and changes in staffing and program organization.  This is even a bigger concern when the gas stations run out of fuel.A quick look at an ambulance driver charged with negligence following a motor vehicle accident where he allegedly ran a red light on a patient transport call.  Both the driver of the other vehicle and a crew member in the back were injured.  Finally, a look at a Union dispute out of Cleveland, Ohio.  A program to provide first response units on fire engines to provide care prior to arrival of EMS units has been challenged by EMS Union officials saying the program should be handled by EMS providers in their organization and not paramedic/firefighters from the fire department.Thanks for GoDaddy.com for sponsoring the show.  Use the code BLU27 to save 10% off your order or, for webhosting orders, try the code POD27 to save 10% of web hosting services.

This week on the MedicCast News, I take a look at a story focusing on the influence that medical product marketing has on physicians and others when they are referring patients for procedures and medications.  You can check out your doctor's links at EthicalDoctor.org. I also take a look at a story about a Nebraska Paramedic who almost dies from a spider bite, reminding all of us that it is important to review the environmental dangers in our region and be prepared to treat these injuries when they occur.  Finally, I take a look at an article about underage alcohol consumption at sporting events and remind providers about the upcoming school and college sports seasons with all of the inherent problems facing event medicine providers.Thanks to Blockbuster Total Access for sponsoring the show.  Get 50% off your first month using this coupon at MyMovieSavings.com! 

This week we look at three stories from the EMS field.  First an accident victim whose life was saved by an EMS provider comes back to say thank you.Plus, a look at why we call them the "mean streets." Paramedics in Sydney, Australia are repeatedly coming under attack by groups of thugs.  Find out more here.  Also, U.S. Army cadet from West Point learn about situational awareness in the urban environment by taking ride alongs with NYC EMS crews.Check out this savings coupon from our sponsor Blockbuster Total Access and find out how you can get %50 off your first months subscription fee - A $10 savings right away!  Visit MyMovieSavings.com for more info. Visit MedicCast.com for more o

This week's news features a look at a public education story about how ambulance diversion to specialty centers works.  We also look at a story about a New Mexico group of high school EMTs, and a sad story about a possible Cleveland, Ohio cheating scandal involving new paramedics there.Check out the MedicCast Podcast as well each weekend with more news, commentary, plus extra tips and tricks of the trade.  Go to MedicCast.com for more information on the show. Thanks to Blockbuster Total Access for sponsoring the show.  Visit MyMovieSavings.com to learn how to save 50% ($10) off your first month and get DVDs sent to your home with no trip to the store! 

This week's look at the midweek medical news starts off with a look at a new home health chip that has been approved for home monitoring by the FDA.  This Intel chip may offer a way for patients to be monitored remotely without needing a trip to the hospital.  Also, we look at two stories on harrassment in the EMS workplace.  One on hazing of paramedic students in New Jersey and another on female ambulance harrassment in Australia.  Finally, we wrap up with a look at how having an EMS certification may help you land a job in other areas of the medical job market.Don't forget to check out the MedicCast main program each week at MedicCast.com. 

The last victim of dual helicopter crash dies of his injuries renewing calls for a review of safety procedures for air ambulance services in the U.S.  Plus a look at a recent EMS accident between an ambulance and an SUV.Also, a story from Australia on bullying accusations in the ambulance service in New South Wales and a Parlaimentary investigation into EMS workplace conditions.  Finally a look at an Oklahoma training program offering paramedic training with pay for a two year committment from the EMS students.For more EMS news, commentary, and tips and tricks for EMTs paramedics, and NREMT students, check out the MedicCast.com site and the weekly MedicCast Podcast. 

This week's look at the mid-week EMS news starts with a story about a fake paramedic and the headaches caused by reviewing patient care he performed.  Other stories include a look at a new bird flu vaccine that offers a better, faster solution in the face of a pandemic situation.  Also, a look at how gas prices are affecting the operations of all ambulance companies around the country.For more EMS news, plus tips and tricks, interviews, and medication review, visit The MedicCast Podcast Site Now!

This week's MedicCast News features a look at a high flying childbirth. Also, how some companies served up EMS Week celebrations for their communities, what some areas are doing with EMS retirement benefits to make ends meet, and a look at Hawaiian EMS and the wireless transmission of ECG data to cardiac centers from the field. Don't forget to check out the MedicCast Website at MedicCast.com for more EMS news and info as well as the full weekend version of the MedicCast with news, commentary, weekly tips and meds, plus a whole lot more!

This week's midweek EMS news features a look at three different stories.  First I look at a Michigan program that is trying to bring some EMS training to high school seniors in an attempt to give them a look into the life of a paramedic.Also, I check out a story about a Texas mom who waited for an hour to get an ambulance to her door for her sick child.  This story may not be as bad as the headline reads.  Finally, I check out a study looking at the method of blood draw and effects on the lab results at the other end.  It can make a big difference.If you like this look at the EMS news then check out the weekly MedicCast Podcast over at MedicCast.com.  Each long format episode features news, tips and tricks, plus some commentary just emergency medical providers. 

This week I wonder why the New York Fire Department is whining about the shortage of EMS providers when they pay them so poorly.  Make your higher paid firefighters do the job and see how they like it!I also looke at the way increased fuel costs are affecting all EMS services and ambulance fees.  Plus a look at a cursing dispatcher and a recent carnival accident.For more EMS news and commentary, don't forget to visit The MedicCast Podcast Site Now!   The longer format weekend MedicCast EMS podcast features news, commentary plus tips, tricks and meds every week.

In this week's look at the mid-week medical news we will cover a new discovery that links compounds found in grapefruits that may hold the key to slowing or stopping the replication of the HCV (hepatitis C virus) at the cellular level.Another interesting study looked at the effects of delaying seeking medical attention after the onset of symptoms of chest pain, shortness of breath, etc.Finally, I talk about a disturbing survey out of Australia that has some surprising things to say about women who are pregnant and alcohol consumption. Visit The MedicCast Podcast Site Now!

On this week's episode of the MedicCast News, I look at a shocking news item where an EMT/Firefighter from Florida is suing a patient for injuries suffered during a response.Also, I look at a story about the safest place to position a child's car seat.  Hint:  Back Seat, middle position!Finally, I close with a reminder for this year's EMS Memorial Service honoring 73 EMS providers who died in the line of duty in 2007.  Keep their families and colleagues in your thoughts and prayers over the coming weeks.Thanks for Blockbuster for sponsoring this program, visit MedicCast.com/blockbuster for information on saving $10 off your first month of Blockbuster Total Access.  Visit The MedicCast Podcast Site Now!

This week I look at a few news items from the previous week including a cautionary tale of a person who is charged and convicted of assault for spitting on an EMS provider.I also look at the heroic efforts of two Wyoming EMS students who performed great CPR for 55 minutes, maintaining perfusion on the long transport to have a ROSC at the hospital ED.  I also examine the tale of a Pennsylvania doctor who gave up private practice and playing the insurance game to give care to the uninsured. Visit The MedicCast Podcast Site Now!

This week in the U.K. two stories caught my eye.  The first was a tragic situation involving a dying teen and a paramedic ordered to not approach due to scene safety issues.  Also, a story of the Queensland, Australia ambulance services recruiting EMS providers all the way from the U.K.I also look at more issues with  medical care in the L.A. area. Visit The MedicCast Podcast Site Now!

This week in EMS news, I look at a story about an Australian EMS levy (tax) that is causing some concerns about adequate coverage for the money spent.Also, a look at a story out of Colorado where a hospital patient was discharged and jumped into an idling ambulance outside of the ER.  He took it for a 100 mile an hour joy ride before he was stopped and taken back into custody.And, finally, I look at the Virginia Tech massacre, one year later.  What have we learned and what has really changed?  Listen to the show to hear my take on the anniversary of the Virginia Tech shootings. 

This week, I return after a bit of a hiatus.  I'll be looking at the Washington, D.C. metro area's recruiting success.  They've been able to hire and fill their staffing needs while parts of the nation can't get EMS coverage because of lack of crews.I also link to a strongly worded report from the CDC about parental concerns regarding vaccines and autism.  The short version is -- They have found no link between autism and vaccine preservatives despite scrutiny and study by the nations top medical researchers.And I round out the show with kudos for a South African paramedic who braved an african bee swarm attacking an elderly man.  This despite the paramedic's own allergy to bee stings.Check out the MedicCast.com site for more news, commentary, articles, tips and tricks. 

This week I take a look at two recent lawsuits in the news that focus on paramedics in the field.  The main point I want to make is that these suits were avoidable whether there was negligence or not.  Listen in and tell me what you think.Cot tips patient to groundPatient dies enroute to wrong facilityI wrap up the show with some good news.  An Ohio paramedic delivers her own baby girl when the family truck breaks down on the way to the hospital.  Congratulations! Check out the MedicCast each weekend for longer looks at the news with commentary, tips and meds. Visit The MedicCast Podcast Site Now!

This week I look at a variety of stories including a story about a NSW, Australia paramedic who arrived at the emergency department of his local hospital with a heart attack of his own, only to find that no doctor was on duty there.Also, a look at AEDs in schools and sports related injuries.  Plus a review of an Italian study on a way to predict CVD related risks in post-menopausal women.Don't forget to check out the MedicCast and Nursing Show Podcasts this weekend over at MedicCast.com. 

I was encouraged to hear from a study by an FDA researcher who refuted previous claims about the effects of iPods on people with implanted cardiac pacemakers.  The prior research was conducted by the curious son of a cardiologist and was published in a medical journal about a year ago.  Good news for podcasters!Also this week:Grandma pays a copay while being loaded in to an ambulanceNew Orleans preps for EMS response to Mardi GrasCDC Reports that TB Case Reduction Not Fast Enough for GoalsThanks for listening to the show.  Check out the MedicCast podcast each weekend over at MedicCast.com. 

This week I saw a great many ambulance involved MVAs on the news wires.  One fatality and numerous injuries reported in association with them.Whether these are our fault or not, folks, we need to be on the ball out there on the streets.  Drive with due regard means to obey traffic laws in your state.  To me it means to drive with the understanding that the other guy is driving with his head up his *SS!Safety, Safety, Safety People!Alright enough said.  In other MedicCast related news, we are celebrating the 2nd anniversary of the MedicCast site and podcast this week.  Tune in this weekend for more on this opportunity to win cool prizes and learn about what's up next for the MedicCast Podcast over at MedicCast.com!

This week, I look at articles surrounding the future of EMS.  The members of the U.S. federal EMS Advisory Council have been named.  Check who they are here.The new budget is in and EMS funding got the axe, including removal of new trauma center funding in the U.S.  See how they slid that one past us in the news.The discussion over using private ambulance services to cover municipal EMS when units are down or out of service crops up again.  This time related to the death of a Philadelphia woman on new year's eve.  Here's the story again.And, finally, a story about scientists growing a rat heart in the lab.  They grew, they got it beating, and this means that growing replacment organs for humans is not too far away.  Check this story out here.Thanks for listening and check back here next week for another episode.  You can also visit the MedicCast.com site for the long format MedicCast Podcast with expanded news and commentary as well as tips and tricks just for EMS providers. 

This week I look at a variety of news stories including:Comparing EMS Then and NowMVA Disaster in FloridaMother Performs CPR in Infant in AmbulanceAHA President Urges Congress Towards PreventionCheck out the MedicCast.com website for more EMS news and tips and listen to the MedicCast Podcast each weekend for a long format show including news, tips and commentary. 

This week I look at news stories about a North Carolina mass casualty accident involving a Greyhound bus and a tractor trailer, another ambulance involved accident where the unit struck a fire truck, a story about an EMS volunteer driver who was picked up for DUI while responding at the hospital, and  finally, a great article that shows another way to encourage and educate your public to volunteer with your services.Thanks for listening!  Check out more news, tips and tricks, and more at the MedicCast site at MedicCast.com and make sure you listen to the Weekly MedicCast Podcast for a one hour EMS update available for you each Monday Morning when you wake up! 

This week on the MedicCast News, I feature stories on new night vision goggles for Air Evac crews nationwide, an Oregon paramedic who got tasered by police officers while trying to subdue a patient, tips to beat holiday weight gain, and kudos to an EMT who is recognized by her community for work and professionalism. Thanks for listening and happy holidays from the MedicCast Team. Check out the 1 hour MedicCast podcast each week at MedicCast.com. Nightvision Choppers Tasered Paramedic Beat Holiday Weight Alabama EMT Award MedicCast Site

This week I look at news about new hepatitis C vaccine advances, holiday coronary risks, injuries surrounding building collapse, and the progress towards finding a home for the national EMS Memorial. Visit MedicCast.com for more news, tips, and EMS related information. Thanks for listening! Building Collapse Hepatitis C News Christmas Coronaries EMS Memorial Sites MedicCast Site

This week I look at news about a Homeland Security Department program to use firefighters and EMS providers to spy on patients, Honolulu's new paid training program, Pennsylvania hospitals get pandemic flu help, and new FDA warnings on flu meds for pediatric patients. Thanks for listening! Check out the main MedicCast program each weekend over at MedicCast.com! EMS Spy Plan Honolulu EMTs Flu Grants FDA Flu Med Warnings MedicCast Site