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Health

National GPO Leaders CommonWealth Purchasing Group (CPG) and MediGroup Physician Services Extend Partnership Through 2027

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CommonWealth Purchasing Group (CPG) and MediGroup Physician Services Extend Partnership Through 2027 Ensuring Stability and Confidence for Health Centers Amidst Uncertain Times

BOSTON, Jan. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — In a strategic move to fortify support for healthcare providers navigating unprecedented challenges, CommonWealth Purchasing Group (CPG) and MediGroup, a channel partner of Provista (a subsidiary of Vizient), are thrilled to announce the extension of their partnership agreement through 2027, thereby guaranteeing their longstanding twenty plus year relationship. This extended collaboration aims to provide Health Centers and other closely aligned non-profits with the stability and confidence needed to address uncertainties in the healthcare landscape, where cost savings play a pivotal role in meeting patient access and workforce challenges.

As the healthcare industry grapples with evolving demands and uncertainties, the extended partnership underscores the commitment of CommonWealth Purchasing Group and MediGroup to empower their non-profit members with the tools and resources necessary to navigate the complexities of the current healthcare environment. The agreement extension is set to continue offering a lifeline to healthcare providers, ensuring a steadfast foundation to deliver quality care while efficiently managing costs.

Key Benefits of the Extended Partnership:

Financial Stability: The extended partnership guarantees Health Centers a reliable, very robust, and stable procurement platform they have grown accustomed to, mitigating financial uncertainties and enabling them to allocate resources more effectively.

Cost Savings: In a time when cost savings are crucial, CommonWealth Purchasing Group and MediGroup are dedicated to providing Health Centers with access to the industry’s most competitive and complete contract portfolio and cost-effective solutions, allowing them to optimize their budgets without compromising on quality. Through the partnership, CommonWealth members have access to the entire Provista-Vizient contract portfolio, MediGroup’s aggregated tiers and exclusive contracts, plus CommonWealth’s aggregated tiers and exclusive contracts for an unrivaled super portfolio of best-in-class pricing.

Operational Efficiency: By continuing their collaboration, CPG and MediGroup aim to enhance operational efficiency for Health Centers, streamlining procurement processes and allowing healthcare providers to focus on delivering exceptional patient care.

Long-Term Confidence: The multi-year extension instills confidence in Health Centers, assuring them of a sustained twenty plus year partnership that aligns with their long-term goals and objectives.

Rich Napolitano, Executive Director of CommonWealth Purchasing Group, commented, “The extension of the relationship between these two national leaders comes at a time of uncertainty for Health Centers and other non-profits throughout the country. In these challenging times, stability and confidence are paramount for healthcare providers. Our extended partnership with MediGroup reinforces our commitment to supporting Health Centers and our other members in their mission to deliver high-quality care while navigating the financial complexities of the healthcare landscape, needing to focus on ways to create more access for patients and meet daily workforce challenges.”

Commenting on the extended partnership, Andy Klearman, CEO of MediGroup, expressed enthusiasm about the positive impact this collaboration will have on the healthcare community. “It is a privilege to continue our 20 plus year partnership with CommonWealth Purchasing Group. Over the years, it has been a pleasure to witness CommonWealth Purchasing Group make it their mission to advocate on behalf of and offer the highest levels of service to healthcare centers nationwide. This continued collaboration promises to bring even more savings to the community health centers and other members of CommonWealth/MediGroup.”

The extended agreement comes at a crucial juncture, emphasizing the joint commitment of CommonWealth Purchasing Group and MediGroup to foster resilience within the healthcare sector. As the partnership continues to evolve, both organizations remain dedicated to addressing the dynamic needs of Health Centers and other non-profits contributing to the overall well-being of communities.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Rich Napolitano, Executive Director Mark Vitale, President

CommonWealth Purchasing Group MediGroup

[email protected] [email protected]

617-834-7121 314-580-4683

About CommonWealth Purchasing Group:

CommonWealth Purchasing Group (CPG), founded in 1998, is the country’s leading group purchasing organization supporting health centers and other healthcare providers. It is dedicated to supporting them in optimizing their supply chain management and cost savings solutions. With a focus on superior member engagement, efficiency, and quality, CPG empowers healthcare organizations to deliver exceptional care to their communities. CommonWealth Purchasing Group is a subsidiary of the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers that is not only profitable and financially well-positioned in the industry but also known for its highly rated customer service and satisfaction as well as its partnerships with other industry leaders such as MediGroup Physician Services and Afaxys, which is based in Charleston, NC.

About MediGroup:

Based in Chesterfield, Missouri, MediGroup is one of the largest non-acute group purchasing organizations (GPOs) in the US.

MediGroup works alongside its sizeable list of members-which includes surgical clinics, primary care, and physician offices nationwide-and helps them cut annual costs by connecting them with only the very best services and products. MediGroup specifically identifies those products or services that can maximize a member’s profitability and efficiency. This allows members to better engage patients with the proper care and consideration they deserve.

MediGroup plays a significant role in pushing the healthcare industry forward by putting members’ needs first.

Media Contact

Rich Napolitano, Executive Director, Commonwealth Purchasing Group, 1 617-834-7121, [email protected], cwpurchasing.com

SOURCE Commonwealth Purchasing Group

Health

New Book Explores Ways to Be Healthy, Feel More Confident and Independent

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“Everyone faces challenges, whether it is mental health, medical concerns, addictive behaviors, or experiencing grief, loss, or trauma,” said Usdane Wall. “This book provides support, along with an understanding that value lives inside all of us, and a diagnosis or situation does not have to define us.”

Usdane Wall has over 35 years of professional experience in the field of mental and behavioral health. She was a school social worker in Title One Schools for over 27 years, worked as an ER crisis therapist, assisting patients who were experiencing suicidal, homicidal, psychosis, or drug and alcohol concerns, and worked in several community mental health agencies as both a therapist and a supervisor, training other practitioners.

In 2015, she opened her own private practice where she serves children, youth, adults, and seniors, both in an office, assisted living, and nursing homes.

“I hope to assist the reader in understanding that negative thinking, overthinking, and self-doubt, does not belong in anyone’s life,” said Usdane Wall. “This guide allows the reader to become open-minded in making changes, exploring goals, and finding a new path of honoring who they choose to be. My hope and goal is that the reader will work to get out of their head and into their heart.”

“Get Out of Your Head and into Your Heart Integrating the Mind and Heart: An Intuitive Perspective in Transformation”
By Suzi Usdane Wall, MSW, LCSW
ISBN: 9798765237816 (softcover); 9798765237830 (hardcover); 9798765237823 (electronic)
Available at Balboa Press, Amazon and Barnes & Noble

About the author

Suzi Usdane Wall, MSW, LCSW, is a mother of two wonderful sons, married for over 32 years, and is both faith-based, and spiritual. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, sociology, and child-family relations from the University of Arizona, Tucson, Ariz. She completed her graduate degree in social work with a specialization in child welfare from Arizona State University, Tempe, Ariz. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Arizona and works with non-profit organizations, and facilitates both grief and loss training, education, and bereavement groups for employees at Make-A-Wish Arizona. To learn more, please visit http://www.balboapress.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/837086-get-out-of-your-head-and-into-your-heart-integrating-the-mind-and-heart.

Media Contact

Ziggy Goldfarb, LAVIDGE, 4803067065, [email protected] 

SOURCE Balboa Press

Health

Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery in Houston, TX Announces Cutting-Edge Technology and Its Accredited Houston Surgery Center

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Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery announces comprehensive skincare and state-of-the-art cosmetic surgery for patients in Houston, Texas. Founded by Dr. Paul Vitenas, a board-certified plastic surgeon with over three decades of experience, the practice is home to the Houston Surgery Center, which is accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgical Facilities (AAAASF). The surgical center’s upgraded, cutting-edge technology highlights Dr. Vitenas’ commitment to delivering the highest standard of patient care, including safety, convenience, and comfort.

HOUSTON, Jan. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Leading Cosmetic Surgery and Skincare by Dr. Paul Vitenas in Houston

Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery focuses on providing patients with the highest standards of cosmetic surgery and skincare. With a track record of over three decades, Dr. Paul Vitenas has developed innovative techniques in plastic surgery, combining technical expertise with an artistic sensibility to create life-changing results. His expertise extends to a wide range of services, including breast procedures, body contouring, facial rejuvenation, and treatments specifically designed for men.

Meet Dr. Paul Vitenas: Over Three Decades of Expertise

Dr. Paul Vitenas brings over three decades of expertise in the field of cosmetic surgery. A graduate of Tulane University Medical School, he has completed multiple residencies and fellowships at prestigious institutions, including the University of Miami, and with world-famous surgeons in Paris, France. This extensive training has allowed Dr. Vitenas to develop innovative techniques in plastic surgery, setting him apart from other plastic surgeons in Texas.

His work has been featured in renowned medical journals and beauty publications such as Allure, Glamour, and Self Magazine. Dr. Vitenas’ commitment to delivering beautiful, natural-looking results has earned him numerous recognitions, including the Best Facial Plastic Surgeon in Houston for 2022 by Modern Luxury Magazine. His contributions to local and national charities in Houston further highlight his dedication to the community.

Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery: Ensuring Safety and Excellence

Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery is a modern, purpose-built facility equipped with cutting-edge technology. The center is home to the Houston Surgery Center, a fully accredited ambulatory surgical care facility designed by Dr. Vitenas himself. The center is dedicated to Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery patients and gives them privacy, convenience, and a focus on safety.

Houston Surgery Center features comfortable, private pre-op rooms, two fully accredited surgical suites, and three recovery bays. Immediately after surgery, each patient receives continuous monitoring and care by a registered nurse to ensure optimal comfort and healing.
The commitment to safety and excellence has earned the Houston Surgery Center its accreditation by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgical Facilities (AAAASF).

A Tailored Approach to Cosmetic Surgery

Dr. Vitenas believes in providing individualized treatment plans that carefully consider each patient’s unique facial features, body proportions, and lifestyle to create life-changing results for their patients.

Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery also has an adjoining medspa, Mirror Mirror Beauty Boutique, that is overseen by Dr. Vitenas. Mirror Mirror offers non-surgical options such as injectable and laser treatments, CoolSculpting, and comprehensive skincare solutions that meet each patient’s unique needs and aesthetic goals.

Cosmetic Procedures and Services for Men

Recognizing the increasing demand for male cosmetic procedures, Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery offers a variety of aesthetic treatments specifically designed for men. These include body contouring, facial rejuvenation, and a range of non-surgical treatments such as Botox Cosmetic and Xeomin. The team understands that men require a unique approach to cosmetic surgery to maintain a natural, masculine appearance. Whether it is to restore a youthful look or enhance certain features, they have the expertise and advanced techniques to help men achieve their desired outcomes.

Popular Surgical Procedures at Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery

Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery’s commitment to delivering impressive yet natural-looking results has earned them a reputation for excellence in the field of cosmetic surgery. Some of the most sought-after procedures at the clinic include breast augmentation, mommy makeovers, and facelifts.

Breast Augmentation: Enhancing Aesthetics with Expertise

Breast augmentation is one of Dr. Vitenas’ most popular procedures, performing hundreds of breast procedures each year. Using his extensive experience and understanding of aesthetics, he delivers results that enhance each patient’s natural features and boost their self-confidence.

Whether patients seek to increase their breast size, correct asymmetry, or restore volume after pregnancy or weight loss, the Vitenas team is here to guide them through every step of the breast augmentation process.

Mommy Makeover: Customized Rejuvenation Post-Pregnancy

Motherhood can bring about significant unwanted changes to a woman’s body. For this, Dr. Vitenas provides the Mommy Makeover, a customized combination of procedures designed to restore the pre-pregnancy figure. From tightening abdominal muscles to enhancing breast shape and size, a Mommy Makeover aims to boost self-confidence and help patients feel their best.

Facelift: Turning Back the Clock with Precision

Although aging is a natural process, it can lead to changes in appearance that may be unexpected. That’s where a facelift procedure can help. Performed by Dr. Vitenas, a facelift procedure can reduce visible signs of aging by removing excess skin and tightening the underlying tissues, restoring a youthful facial contour. With his advanced surgical techniques, Dr. Vitenas can help men and women turn back the clock and rejuvenate their appearance.

Schedule Your Visit to Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery

Embark on your transformative journey with Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery, Houston’s premier destination for unparalleled cosmetic care.

Schedule your visit today to explore a world of personalized treatments guided by Dr. Paul Vitenas’ three decades of expertise. Experience a warm, supportive environment where each step is tailored to your unique needs and aesthetic aspirations.

Connect with Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery by calling 281-484-0088, filling out a contact form, or visiting their website to begin crafting your new, confident self.

Media Contact

Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery, drvitenas.com, 281-484-0088, [email protected], drvitenas.com

SOURCE Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery

Health

Roswell, Georgia’s, Premier Dental Clinic, Roswell Complete Dentistry Announces New Membership Plan

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“We are thrilled to offer our Blueprint Smiles Membership Plan to help make maintaining oral health care affordable and available for everyone,” says Dr. Liudmila Poznyak.

More about Roswell Complete Dentistry:

The professional dental team at Roswell Complete Dentistry delivers the very best in advanced oral health care. Roswell Complete Dentistry is conveniently located at 1875 Old Alabama Rd., Ste. 130 in Roswell, GA, and the clinic provides general and preventive dental services, as well as restorative, cosmetic and orthodontic care (OrthoFX). They provide convenient tooth repairs, fillings, crowns, as well as emergency care for unexpected dental problems. The clinic accepts most dental plans, and for those without insurance, they offer affordable self-pay options that can give patients the dental care they need at a low cost. At Roswell Complete Dentistry, they strive to provide patients with the best care that modern dentistry has to offer and have equipped the clinic with cutting-edge dental technology. Their use of these innovative devices and equipment improves the efficiency, comfort and safety of dental procedures for their valued patients. For more information, please call 404-595-1840 or visit http://www.roswellcompletedentistry.com.

Media Contact

Dipesh Patel, Roswell Complete Dentistry, 404-595-1840, [email protected], https://roswellcompletedentistry.com/ 

SOURCE Roswell Complete Dentistry

Health

On PBM Reform, NACDS Urges U.S. Congress: “Get It Done”

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NACDS emphasizes the importance of Medicare and Medicaid reforms passed by the by the U.S. House of Representatives, by the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and by the U.S. Senate Finance Committee.

Throughout Congress’ consideration of PBM reform, prior NACDS ads have described the negative effects on Americans and on pharmacies caused by “pharmaceutical benefit manipulation,” and have defined “real PBM reform” at the federal level as that which addresses PBM tactics in Medicare and Medicaid.

Not only does NACDS’ new ad coincide with Congress’ evaluation of must-pass legislation in the 118th Congress, but it also comes on the heels of a December letter from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to PBMs and plans. The letter challenges PBM and plan tactics that CMS said “threaten the sustainability of many pharmacies, impede access to care, and put increased burden on healthcare providers.”

Anderson said of NACDS’ ongoing advocacy for PBM reform: “The PBMs are trying to run out the clock on real reform. The U.S. Congress must not fall for that. It is past time to protect Americans, communities, and their pharmacies from pharmaceutical benefit manipulation. Congress has already done most of the work on a bipartisan basis, so let’s get it done. Americans in communities across the country are watching.”

Media Contact

Kathleen Bashur, NACDS, 703-837-4367, [email protected], https://www.nacds.org

SOURCE NACDS

Health

Ideal Option Awarded Accreditation from The Joint Commission®

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The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® demonstrates compliance with its exacting performance standards for safety and quality of patient care.

KENNEWICK, Wash., Jan. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Ideal Option, a national leader in evidence-based treatment for addiction to fentanyl, xylazine, methamphetamine, alcohol and polysubstance, recently received The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for meeting the highest standards of care in both its 85+ outpatient clinics and 5 in-house laboratories.

A team of Joint Commission reviewers conducted unannounced onsite inspections and interviews at more than a dozen Ideal Option clinics in October. The reviewers evaluated Ideal Option’s compliance with its rigorous standards for safety and quality of patient care.

The Joint Commission’s standards are developed in consultation with healthcare experts and providers, measurement experts and patients. They are informed by scientific literature and expert consensus to help health care organizations measure, assess and improve performance.

“As a healthcare accreditor, The Joint Commission works with healthcare organizations across care settings to inspire safer and higher quality of care that is more equitable and compassionate,” says Ken Grubbs, DNP, MBA, RN, executive vice president of Accreditation and Certification Operations and chief nursing officer for The Joint Commission. “We commend Ideal Option for its commitment to advance safety, quality, equity and compassion for all patients.”

The accreditation process also necessitates ongoing education and training for healthcare staff, promoting their professional growth and ensuring they stay updated with the latest advancements and best practices in healthcare.

“Ideal Option staff members across various departments worked together to ensure all The Joint Commission accreditation standards were exceeded,” said Wendy Manthei, vice president of clinic operations for Ideal Option. “We are proud to now hold the Gold Seal of Approval, which is a testament to our excellence in standardized operating procedures, clinic cleanliness and appearance, infection control and the overall quality of our patient care.”

For more information on the accreditation requirements, please visit The Joint Commission website.

Ideal Option has helped more than 75,000 patients since 2012 through a network of over 85 outpatient clinics across 9 states: Alaska, Arkansas, Idaho, Maryland, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon and Washington.

With no waitlists and most forms of insurance accepted, including Medicare and Medicaid, patients can typically get started on treatment for multiple substances within 1-3 business days.

Patients can make an appointment by calling 1.877.522.1275 or visiting www.idealoption.com.

About Ideal Option 

Headquartered in Kennewick, Washington, Ideal Option was founded in 2012 and has since helped over 75,000 patients through a network of 85+ office-based medication-assisted treatment (MAT) clinics across 9 states. With a mission to serve under-served communities, Ideal Option accepts most forms of insurance, including Medicaid and Medicare. Financial assistance and payment plans are also available. 

Ideal Option’s team of medical providers carry certifications in Addiction and Emergency Medicine, Internal, and Family Medicine, among other specialties. The company also employs social workers, caseworkers, counselors, and mental health practitioners. This holistic approach helps drive positive outcomes, including family stability, stable housing, improved overall health, and reduced rates of recidivism. 

In all the communities it serves, Ideal Option collaborates with existing stakeholders and providers to improve the continuum of care. This approach includes partnerships with emergency rooms and county jail systems, where individuals with substance use disorder often appear, as well as collaborating with numerous support agencies and municipal programs addressing social needs such as housing, mental health, and nutrition support. 

Media Contact

Olivia Roe, Ideal Option, 1 9199466644, [email protected], www.idealoption.com

Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn

SOURCE Ideal Option



Health

Ascent® Revolutionizes Mornings with the Permanent Return of Iced Coffee+ Protein

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“We are excited to make Iced Coffee+ Protein a permanent fixture in the Ascent lineup,” says Kirsten Karlsson, Head of Marketing at Ascent. “The response from our dedicated customers during the initial launch was overwhelming, and it reaffirmed the need for a product that seamlessly solves our consumers’ ask for a delicious, iced coffee beverage with an added boost of protein all in one. Ascent is committed to providing innovative solutions that enhance our customers’ lifestyles, and the permanent return of our Iced Coffee+ Protein is a testament to that commitment.”

Ascent’s Iced Coffee+ Protein stands out as a versatile and nutritious choice, offering a convenient way to fuel your body with both caffeine and protein in one delicious sip without any artificial flavors or sweeteners. Whether you’re an athlete seeking a pre-workout coffee, post-workout recovery beverage or a coffee aficionado looking to elevate your daily routine, Ascent has crafted the perfect solution. This product is available for purchase on ascentprotein.com, Amazon & select retail partners nationwide. Ascent encourages all coffee and fitness enthusiasts to indulge in the ultimate fusion of flavor, function and fitness with Iced Coffee+ Protein.

About Ascent Protein

Ascent® was created to naturally improve athletic performance and is The Official Sponsor of Hard Work®. Ascent launched in 2016 and has continued to bring innovative products to the market while remaining committed to their high-quality standards and offering products with straightforward ingredients and nothing artificial. All Ascent products contain zero artificial flavors and sweeteners and are Certified Gluten Free and Informed Sport Certified meaning they are third-party tested for banned substances. Aligning with the admirable qualities in the athletes that Ascent serves – going the extra mile, completing an extra set, and never backing down from a challenge, Ascent pushes for high-quality results, knowing they do not come without hard work. For more information, visit Ascent Protein.

Media Contact

Kim DeVigil, Leprino Foods, 1 720-550-3751, [email protected], https://leprinofoods.com/ 

SOURCE Leprino Foods

Society: Christianity

Armed Forces Bank Partners with Vector to Provide Preferred Mortgage Lender Program for Vector Employees

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As a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business, Vector understands the unique challenges, as well as the opportunities, that veterans have when purchasing a home.

“Vector is fully committed to empowering our employees’ dreams beyond the workplace by exploring partnerships that benefit and empower them,” said John Hotek, vice president of strategy and workforce solutions at Vector. “Our partnership with Armed Forces Bank provides our employees with a trusted, vetted, veteran-centric mortgage lender that understands and has been recognized for their service to homebuyers, especially veterans and first-time home buyers. Launching Operation Homeward is a testament to our commitment of providing tangible support and fostering lasting stability in the lives of our valued team members.”

Since 2013, Armed Forces Bank has helped nearly 28,000 homeowners close over $9.2 billion in loans and more than 12,000 homeowners close over $4.7 billion in VA loans.

“The partnership between Armed Forces Bank and the Vector family of businesses makes complete sense as the synergy between these two companies – whose primary goals are to help veterans – is engrained in the culture and white-glove service approach we take with all veterans,” said Nick Alphs, president of mortgage lending at Armed Forces Bank. “I’m excited to get this kicked off as I envision all the veterans we’ll help working with the high-quality individuals at Vector.”

Jake Scarbo, Armed Forces Bank senior mortgage banker, designed and will lead the Operation Homeward program. He said it is “the result of two like-minded companies with similar principles and core values finding more ways to serve those individuals who have served our country.”

“We’re excited to partner with Vector and their outstanding leadership team to provide all their employees – veterans and non-veterans alike – with a superior mortgage experience through fast, easy and personal service,” Scarbo added.

Armed Forces Bank’s mission is to provide quality financial products and services tailored for active-duty and retired military, Department of Defense personnel, civilians and their families in all 50 states and around the world.

Uniquely qualified to serve as the preferred mortgage loan partner to Vector employees, Armed Forces Bank has been consistently honored by the Association of Military Banks of America with the Distinguished Bank of the Year Award, Designation of Savings Excellence and the Community Impact Award. Armed Forces Bank is also a founding member of the Military Spouse Employment Partnership.

For more information about the Operation Homeward program, contact Jake Scarbo at [email protected]

About Armed Forces Bank
Armed Forces Bank, founded and headquartered in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, is a full-service military bank committed to serving those who serve since 1907. Armed Forces Bank provides affordable, personal and convenient banking and financial services to both active and retired military, as well as civilian clients in all 50 states and around the world. Approximately 85% of Armed Forces Bank associates have some type of military affiliation either by spouse, retired themselves or their children.

Armed Forces Bank has $1.2 billion in assets and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Dickinson Financial Corporation, a $3.6 billion bank holding company headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri. Armed Forces Bank’s sister bank, Academy Bank, is a full-service community bank with over 70 branch locations in Arizona, Colorado, Kansas and Missouri. For more information, visit http://www.afbank.com and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram. Member FDIC.

About Vector
Vector is the most diversified ancillary construction service contractor in North America, providing infrastructure and labor solutions to the energy, utilities, and construction industries. A Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Business (SDVOB), Vector is rooted in military services and prides itself on providing exceptional service, quality and safety to its partners and the communities it serves while creating meaningful career opportunities for our nation’s veterans. For more information, visit vectorforcedevelopment.com.

Media Contact

Elaina Boudreau, BELA Communications, 913.660.0548, [email protected] 

SOURCE Armed Forces Bank



Health

Lawrence Phillips, MD, FASNC, Installed as ASNC’s President for 2024

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Dr. Phillips lays out “a game plan for the future” informed in large part from lessons learned from working with cardiac imagers in NYU Langone Heart’s 29 nuclear cardiology labs across New York State and in Florida and from imaging educational activities in the ISCHEMIA Trial. The key activities in his game plan are –

  •  Upgrading nuclear cardiology reporting with precise definitions and standardization;
  •  Expanding the availability of quality improvement activities for imagers to participate in after completing their training programs; and
  •  Providing new venues for imagers to learn cutting-edge skills, ideally through hands-on and case-based, workshop-style education.

ASNC, he says, will serve as the nuclear cardiology community’s “sponsor, coach, and teammate.”

Dr. Phillips earned his medical degree from Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia. He completed his internal medicine residency and cardiovascular training fellowship at North Shore University Hospital in New York.

He has been an active member of ASNC since joining in 2007. Among many volunteer roles, he has served as the director of ASNC’s highly regarded Leadership Development Program, which provides early-career ASNC members with opportunities to develop leadership skills by participating in ASNC committees and special projects while being mentored by luminaries in the field. Dr. Phillips has also held positions on a variety of ASNC educational initiatives, including the Refer Wisely initiative, and has been instrumental in communicating ASNC’s health policy priorities to policymakers.

As ASNC president, Dr. Phillips will lead ASNC’s 2024 Executive Council, which also includes President-elect Panithaya Chareonthaitawee, MD; Vice President Karthikeyan Ananthasubramaniam, MD, FASNC; Secretary Jamieson Bourque, MD, MHS, FASNC; Treasurer Andrew Einstein, MD, PhD, MASNC; Immediate Past President Mouaz H. Al-Mallah, MD, MSc, MASNC; and Once-removed Past President Dennis A. Calnon, MD, MASNC.

For nuclear cardiology news, follow Dr. Phillips on X (formerly Twitter) at @LPhillipsMD and @MyASNC.

About ASNC
The American Society of Nuclear Cardiology and its more than 5,200 members have been improving cardiovascular outcomes through image-guided patient management for more than 30 years. As the only society dedicated solely to the field of nuclear cardiology, ASNC establishes standards for excellence in cardiovascular imaging through the development of clinical guidelines, professional medical education, advocacy and research development. ASNC provides peer-reviewed original articles through its official publication, The Journal of Nuclear Cardiology. For more information, visit http://www.asnc.org. 

Media Contact

Kathy Boyd David, ASNC, 717-422-1181, [email protected], www.asnc.org

Twitter

SOURCE ASNC



Health

Illinois Biotechnology Innovation Organization Elects New Board Chair and Adds New Board Members

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“I am honored to be elected Chair of the iBIO Board of Directors and look forward to continuing the great work of my predecessor, Marilyn Vetter. I am excited to work with the board and our members to advance policies that drive innovation, foster collaboration, and promote the growth of Illinois’ biosciences industry. And look forward to collaborating with stakeholders across the biosciences ecosystem to create a more resilient and inclusive community that delivers innovative solutions to patients,” said Ken Johnson, Chair, iBIO Board of Directors and Senior Vice President, Global Development and Medical Affairs, Xeris Biopharma.

About Ken Johnson, Xeris Biopharma

Dr. Ken Johnson is the Senior Vice President, Global Development and Medical Affairs of Xeris Pharmaceuticals. Dr. Johnson is responsible for leading clinical and nonclinical development, regulatory, quality and medical affairs to effectively generate high-quality scientific and clinical evidence for Xeris’ products to support product approval, advance clinical education and practice, inform policy, and improve health outcomes for patients.

Dr. Johnson has more than 30 years of professional experience in the pharmaceutical industry, pharmaceutical benefits management, and academia. Dr. Johnson was most recently Executive Director, US Medical Affairs for Hospital Specialty Products at Merck. Previously, Dr. Johnson held senior management positions in Medical Affairs and Outcomes Research at Circassia Pharmaceuticals, Durata Therapeutics, Horizon Pharma, Takeda Pharmaceuticals North America, NeoPharm, Searle/Pharmacia, and Bristol-Myers Squibb.

About Heidi Gilmore, TerSera

Heidi Gillmore is the Senior Vice President of Marketing / Strategic Planning at TerSera Therapeutics. Heidi has been with TerSera since the company’s inception in 2016 and has held several different commercial leadership roles during that time. Prior to TerSera, Heidi served as Vice President of Marketing at Crealta Pharmaceuticals, which was acquired by Horizon Pharma in 2016. Heidi also worked in marketing, market access and business development for TAP Pharmaceuticals and Takeda Pharmaceuticals North America. Heidi spent the early part of her career at Arthur Andersen in the supply chain technology services practice within the firm’s business consulting division.

About Joe Hrdlicka, Genentech

Joe Hrdlicka is the Senior Manager of State Government Affairs for Genentech. He’s responsible for several Upper Midwest states working with executive and legislative branch policymakers to develop favorable policy toward innovation and patient access toward innovative treatments. Hrdlicka was the executive director of the Iowa Biotechnology Association from 2014 to 2018. He served as chief executive of this 100-member organization of biotech companies where he was responsible for annual budgeting and direction of all operations including strategic planning, member communication, events and advocacy.

About Kevin Johnson, Amgen

Kevin Johnson is Senior Manager, State Government Affairs at Amgen, where he supports Amgen’s State and Local legislative and regulatory efforts and shapes the advocacy environment in 6 midwestern states. He is the Health Equity and Inflammation team lead, charged with developing the team’s State and Local educational and engagement strategies to demonstrate Amgen’s ongoing commitment to addressing health disparities.

About iBIO

The Illinois Biotechnology Innovation Organization (iBIO) is a life sciences industry association that represents the 91,000 life sciences employees in Illinois. iBIO promotes the industry’s value to the public and policymakers; connects innovators to investment and talent; stimulates collaboration and fosters the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs to transform patient lives through groundbreaking research and works to grow the Illinois economy. To learn more about iBIO and its programs, visit http://www.ibio.org.

Media Contact

John Conrad, Illinois Biotechnology Innovation Organization, 1 3124221111, [email protected], http://ibio.org

SOURCE Illinois Biotechnology Innovation Organization