Category Archives: Health

What is new in the field of Health. Trending topics, and cutting edge research in the are of Health. Press Releases that give us updates on Health.

Oakland Zoo Launching New “Behind the Scenes Live” Interactive Platform During Closure


BTS Live and Interactive Crew with Host, Michelle Myers

Being closed to the public pushed us to think about how we could offer people a new way to connect with us in an impactful and unique way – while helping the Zoo survive without admissions revenue.

The new platform/service titled “Behind the Scenes Live” allows subscribers to sign up today, with the first live-streaming broadcast premiering on April 2.

The live broadcasts will be at 2:30 pm (PST) every weekday and feature a host interviewing a variety of animal keepers and veterinary hospital staff with different animals. The interactive component allows subscribers to direct message questions during the broadcast and in real-time, so they can be answered immediately. The service is priced at $14.95 per month, with Zoo members receiving the first 30-days free followed by a $9.95 discounted monthly fee.

“Being closed to the public pushed us to think about how we could offer people a new way to connect with us in an impactful and unique way – while helping the Zoo survive without admissions revenue. Going behind the scenes and including the interactive component for subscribers to submit questions in real-time gives people something that goes even beyond a normal Zoo visit,” Dr. Joel Parrott, President & CEO.

Without the admission revenue that makes up for 80% of its operating budget, the Zoo hopes that the revenue from the new subscription service will also help offset layoffs and reduced work hours for staff, of which first rounds began today, on April 1.

ABOUT OAKLAND ZOO AND THE CONSERVATION SOCIETY OF CALIFORNIA:

Oakland Zoo, home to more than 750 native and exotic animals, is managed by the Conservation Society of California (CSC); a non-profit organization leading an informed and inspired community to take action for wildlife locally and globally. With over 25 conservation partners and projects worldwide, the CSC is committed to conservation-based education and saving species and their habitats in the wild. Oakland Zoo is dedicated to the humane treatment of animals and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the national organization that sets the highest standards for animal welfare for zoos and aquariums.

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Aventuron to Offer Free Shipping on All Orders


Carl & Kathryn, Aventuron Owners with son Mack

Carl & Kathryn, Aventuron Owners with son Mack

“We are very family oriented and we wanted to do something to help other families during these challenging times.”

Far and wide, Aventuron customers have long since enjoyed free shipping on all orders of $100 or more. Starting today, April 1st, customers can now enjoy FREE shipping on every single item in stock. There are no minimum purchase requirements, no membership fees, and no catches or gimmicks. Just community, taking care of community.

Aventuron believes there’s ‘healing in nature,’ and they’re committed to helping customers tap into that, especially in these trying times and even at significant cost to themselves. Their belief in community is stronger than the economy could ever be, even on the best of days.

As the current environment forces everyone to adapt in order to overcome, Aventuron was one of the first local businesses to the plate. The family owned and operated company closed their bricks-and-mortar location to the public (except for bicycle repair services by appointment) and implemented a ‘ship only’ policy before the Governor announced any restrictions that would affect retail businesses. It’s always the right time to do the right thing.

“We are very family oriented and we wanted to do something to help other families during these challenging times.”

Aventuron hopes this free shipping policy encourages customers to shop online and find their “social distance” outdoors and connect with nature.

Aventuron, located in Sheboygan, is Wisconsin’s premier outdoor adventure company. With product offerings including; Bicycles, Fly Fishing, Camping, Overlanding, Hunting, and a category referred to as “Lodge Life”, there is something for adventurers of every age, skill level and background. Built from the ground up by a husband and wife team, Aventuron is committed to equipping customers with the best gear and providing the best service.

From our Family to Yours: Carl, Kathryn, Mack, Anton and Don

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West Coast Dental Remains Open For Dental Emergencies Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic


“Due to State of California mandated closures of non-essential businesses and in an effort to slow the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic across our communities, West Coast Dental has closed majority of its dental offices across Southern California,” says Dr. Payam Sohrab, CEO of West Coast Dental. “However, patient’s access to care is of the utmost importance to us. Therefore, we have designated a few offices across Southern California that will remain open in case of any dental emergencies. We hope that our efforts will help all hard working front line ER and hospital personnel so they can focus on treating life threatening emergencies.”

If you are experiencing a dental emergency, please call 888-329-8111 to speak to a qualified dental associate. If you require an in-person visit, we have offices opened in the Greater Los Angeles Area, South Bay and Inland Empire.

About West Coast Dental

Privately held for over 25 years, West Coast Dental Services has continued to serve Southern California with the finest dental and orthodontic care in the state. Started by a group of dedicated dental professionals who saw the need for quality, multi-specialty dental care, West Coast Dental now has 37 state-of-the-art dental care practices across the state of California. West Coast Dental Services delivers the highest standard of care using the latest technologies with a team of talented general dentists and specialists.

For more information, visit http://www.westcoastdental.com

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Keller Grover LLP Investigating Tandem Diabetes Care


“Medical information is considered to be among the most personal and private of information under California law,” says Keller Grover LLP attorney Eric A. Grover. “For that reason, healthcare providers are required to give patients timely notice of data breaches and the negligent release and disclosure of medical information can, under certain circumstances, give rise to claims by affected individuals for money damages.”

Similar medical data breaches involving the failure to properly secure medical information have given rise to class action lawsuits. Recently, for example, St. Joseph Health Systems finalized a class action lawsuit settlement valued at over $30 million involving St. Joseph’s alleged failure to properly secure its network, allowing patient information to become publicly accessible on the internet.

If you have any information about the Tandem Diabetes Care data breach or are a California resident that has been affected by the data breach and have questions, contact Keller Grover’s attorneys at 888-535-5291 or by email at info@kellergrover.com.

Keller Grover LLP is a leader in the field of medical information privacy litigation and has represented clients in numerous medical data breach class action cases, including lawsuits against St. Joseph Health Systems, Stanford Hospitals and Clinics, Health Net and 21st Century Oncology. Keller Grover will not charge you for reviewing your information and all information that you provide to Keller Grover in the process of seeking legal advice will be held strictly confidential. (Attorney Advertising)

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PTS Diagnostics and MedPro Healthcare Sales Solutions Enter Into Partnership


MedPro’s support is crucial to achieving our core mission of closing gaps in care and potentially improving the outcomes of individuals with chronic conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

PTS Diagnostics, a U.S.-based manufacturer of point-of-care medical testing devices announced today that they are partnering with MedPro Healthcare Sales Solutions, a leading healthcare contract sales organization.

The partnership adds positions to the existing PTS Diagnostics sales force. These new representatives will be strategically staggered throughout the country and managed by PTS Diagnostics directors and senior sales managers. Together they’ll be responsible for expanding the footprint of the CardioChek® and A1CNow® product lines.

“MedPro’s support is crucial to achieving our core mission of closing gaps in care and potentially improving the outcomes of individuals with chronic conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease,” said Cliffe Allen, VP of U.S. Sales of PTS Diagnostics. “Their knowledge regarding point-of-care testing combined with exceptional distribution relationships positions us for ongoing success in numerous vertical markets.”

MedPro was founded in 2006 and has grown into a leading sales force that’s trusted by manufacturers and distributors of all sizes. Their team’s connections span across a wide spectrum of healthcare delivery models, allowing for a streamlined sales cycle.

PTS Diagnostics’ solutions represent the first and only point-of-care lipid, glucose, and HbA1c tests sold by MedPro representatives.

“We’re thrilled to partner with PTS Diagnostics and believe that the certified accuracy, precision, and speed of their solutions will be a value add for physician offices, pharmacies, walk-in clinics, and more,” said Manny Losada, President of MedPro Healthcare Sales Solutions. Together we hope to positively impact at-risk populations at the point of care.

This announcement comes on the heels of PTS Diagnostics’ recent A1CNow+ ControlsTM product launch and it precedes future 2020 product announcements.

To learn more about PTS Diagnostics or to connect with a sales representative, email: customerservice@ptsdiagnostics.com, or call 877-870-5610.

About PTS Diagnostics

Through its People, Technology and Service, PTS Diagnostics creates health innovation that drives action and results. Since 1992, we have helped medical professionals and patients achieve better health outcomes through our accurate, precise, fast, affordable, and certified point-of-care medical devices. Healthcare professionals have used our CardioChek® products to assess cardiovascular disease risks for millions of patients worldwide through lipid panel screening. And, our A1CNow® systems, which provide fast and reliable HbA1c testing, have helped physicians deliver more effective treatments to patients with diabetes. For more information, visit ptsdiagnostics.com.

About MedPro Healthcare Sales Solutions

Med-Pro Associates is a nationwide independent rep group specializing in representing leading manufacturers across the country who sell their products both through distribution and direct to the hospital, long term care, physician, dental and veterinary markets.

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Dr. Michele S. Green Continues Partnership with the Exclusive Haute Beauty Network


Dr. Michele Green has published numerous papers on the surgical reconstruction margins and treatment of malignant melanoma that highlight her expertise in this field. Dr. Green is also a principal member of the Skin Cancer Foundation and volunteers her time at skin cancer screenings.

Dr. Michele S. Green, board-certified Anti-Aging Expert representing the New York market, is continuing her partnership with the esteemed Haute Beauty network.

The Haute Beauty Network, well known for its exclusivity, and luxurious lifestyle, is privileged to present Dr. Green as a leading Anti-Aging Expert.

Haute Beauty offers a prominent collective of leading doctors nationwide. The invitation-only exclusive network maintains elite as ever, with only two doctors in every market. This partnership allows Haute Beauty to connect its affluent readers with industry-leading doctors.

Visit Dr. Green’s Haute Beauty Profile: https://hauteliving.com/hautebeauty/member/dr-michele-s-green/

About Dr. Green:

Dr. Michele S. Green is a board-certified dermatologist. Upper East Side patients and those from the surrounding areas of New York City flock to her practice for a variety of cosmetic dermatology treatments. A graduate from Yale University, with an MD from Mount Sinai Medical School in NYC, Dr. Green treats some of the most discerning, demanding women and men in the world, with issues ranging from premature skin aging to hyperpigmentation, rosacea, acne, and skin cancer.

Her most popular cosmetic dermatology treatments include:

Thermage® – Tightens skin without surgery

Fraxel Dual®– An excellent option for reducing the appearance of fine lines, rough skin texture, and other blemishes

CoolSculpting® – A leading body contouring treatment that can reduce inches on your thighs, waist and other areas of the body

A True Patient Focus

Dr. Green respects the healing process and believes in the value of spending as much time as needed with her patients, addressing questions, and reviewing all available options for treatment and products. She takes a conservative yet proven approach, with the goal of helping you feel more confident and optimistic about your appearance.

In addition to being a keen diagnostician and board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Green also possesses an exceptional technical ability. She skillfully performs the latest in laser therapies, chemical peels, and other skin rejuvenation techniques. Learn why being board certified in dermatology matters.

Earlier in her career, Dr. Green worked for global skin care brands, L’Oreal, Johnson and Johnson, Bioré® and RoC® on the research, development, and safety testing of worldwide product launches. She has been tapped by magazine editors for expert skincare advice, product recommendations for articles, and trend stories. She has appeared on TV news segments to offer her expertise. Additionally, Dr. Green has published articles on topics ranging from skin cancer to dermal fillers in professional journals including The Journal of American Academy of Dermatology and Cosmetic Dermatology.

With the access to cutting-edge research and ingredients from around the world, coupled with her knowledge about what woman want, she formulated her own specialty line of products called MGSKINLABS, Inc. “If I’m going to recommend a product, I really have to believe in it,” Dr. Green states. “With countless brands all making similar claims, women are confused, and using the wrong product can be worse than using no products at all.”

With patient feedback at the cornerstone of product development, MGSKINLABS combines the most synergistic blends of clinically proven ingredients and sophisticated technologies. MGSKINLABS products address a variety of skincare challenges caused by environmental assaults and genetics. Thanks to visibly remarkable results and rave reviews, MGSKINLABS enables Dr. Green to extend her extraordinary treatment approach toward skincare beyond her NYC practice.

Dr. Michele Green has published numerous papers on the surgical reconstruction margins and treatment of malignant melanoma that highlight her expertise in this field. Dr. Green is also a principal member of the Skin Cancer Foundation and volunteers her time at skin cancer screenings.

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Velocidy Bio starts distributing NEXTGENPCR, an instrument capable of analyzing 22,860 SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus tests in 24 hours


“Velocidy Bio has always believed that decreasing time-to-result represents an unmet need in the life sciences space.” – Brian McNally, CEO, Velocidy Bio

Velocidy Bio’s Dutch biotech partner, Molecular Biology Systems (MBS), has developed a new method using its revolutionary NEXTGENPCR that decreases the testing time for SARS-CoV-2 to eight minutes, compared to current systems that take over an hour. Utilizing this method, a single unit the size of a shoebox could perform a hundred and eighty (180) amplification runs a day, an almost ten-fold increase over the current US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommended instrumentation. According to Gert de Vos, MBS CEO, this protocol produces a simple yes/no answer and a single instrument is capable of running 24/7, analyzing 22,860 samples per day.

NEXTGENPCR machines launched about two years ago and Velocidy Bio is the exclusive distributor for the USA and Canada. According to Brian McNally, the CEO of Velocidy Bio, a single unit could potentially test every employee at Frederick Memorial Health every day in about 3 hours. McNally added, “Velocidy Bio has always believed that decreasing time-to-result represents an unmet need in the life sciences space. We have committed ourselves to finding solutions either through internal projects or external partnerships that accelerate lab work. We have been in close collaboration with MBS and look forward to supporting the US and Canadian labs that are interested in this solution.”

Velocidy Bio is currently a member of Frederick Innovative Technology Center, Inc. (FITCI), a technology incubator and accelerator that provides start-up companies with business support and mentorship. “As a young business, we wouldn’t have had the resources to navigate all of the complexities of this crisis without FITCI and would not have been prepared to support the US and Canadian labs with the NEXTGENPCR technology”, added McNally.

NEXTGENPCR instruments are available to order today. Please follow the link to learn more – https://www.velocidybio.com/

About Velocidy Bio, Inc.

Velocidy Bio is focused on delivering solutions that decrease time-to-results for biological laboratories. Working together with innovative organizations, Velocidy Bio offers solutions globally that reduce protocols from hours to minutes. These accelerated protocols enable scientists to increase their productivity and reduce stress associated with delays in generating results. Initially, Velocidy Bio is focused on reducing the time required to extract, amplify and analyze nucleic acids. Further information can be found at http://www.velocidybio.com.

About Molecular Biology Systems

Molecular Biology Systems B.V. is a Netherlands company that developed and commercialized NEXTGENPCR, a universal ultrafast PCR system. The NEXTENPCR instrument uses an innovative temperature control method during cycling, which eliminates ramp time. Molecular Biology Systems offers their NEXTGENPCR instrument, accessories and consumables around the world, to laboratories in life science research, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, forensics, veterinary testing and food safety. Further information can be found at http://www.nextgenpcr.com.

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Domestic Gag Rule Reduces Contraceptive Access For Nearly 200,000 Women Living In Minnesota


“Even before the domestic gag rule was implemented, almost 300,000 low-income women in Minnesota lived in contraceptive deserts, counties without reasonable access to the full range of contraceptive methods,” said Ginny Ehrlich, CEO, Power to Decide.

According to data released by Power to Decide, an estimated 193,110 Minnesota women of reproductive age (13-44) in need of publicly funded contraception live in counties impacted by the implementation of the Title X Family Planning Program “domestic gag rule.” Nearly one-quarter of Minnesota’s counties have lost some or all of their Title X resources.

The domestic gag rule requires health providers receiving Title X funds to withhold information from patients about abortion services and care. In addition, health centers are required to cease providing abortion care with non-Title X funds at sites that offer Title X supported services, such as contraceptive care, breast and cervical cancer screening and STI testing. The rule requires that abortion services, no matter how they are funded, be performed at a separate physical site, which is impossible for many health centers.

“The implementation of the domestic gag rule could impact nearly 200,000 women in need in Minnesota,” said Ginny Ehrlich, CEO, Power to Decide. “This federal rule exacerbates an already challenging contraceptive access landscape for women struggling to make ends meet. Even before the domestic gag rule was implemented, almost 300,000 low-income women in Minnesota lived in contraceptive deserts, counties without reasonable access to the full range of contraceptive methods. As a result, these women face untenable financial barriers such as transportation, child care and taking unpaid time from work costs incurred just to get the contraception they need.”

Data from Power to Decide show that 283,400 women living at or below 250% of the poverty level in Minnesota live in contraceptive deserts, counties in which there is not reasonable access to a health center offering the full range of contraceptive methods. Nationally, more than 19 million U.S. women of low income live in contraceptive deserts.

In this challenging landscape, states like Minnesota can take steps to partially alleviate the impact of damaging federal policies and to proactively expand access to contraception in various ways. These policies include allowing pharmacists to prescribe contraception, requiring insurance to cover an extended supply of prescription contraceptives and enacting policies that protect insurance coverage of the full range of contraceptive methods. Minnesota has expanded Medicaid to low-income adults, which helps decrease the percentage of uninsured women, and by extension, give them the contraceptive coverage they need to live healthy lives. To further expand access, Minnesota is currently considering legislation that would allow pharmacists to prescribe contraception. More information about these policies can be found here.

Power to Decide is a private, non-partisan, non-profit organization that works to ensure all people—no matter who they are, where they live or what their economic status might be—have the power to decide if, when and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. Please visit us at http://www.PowerToDecide.org or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

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American Family Care Launches AFC/TeleCare to Combat COVID-19


As the coronavirus pandemic spreads, American Family Care (AFC), the nation’s leading provider of urgent care and accessible primary care, launches its telemedicine platform, AFC/TeleCare, as a solution in this healthcare crisis. The American Family network of nationwide healthcare clinics will now provide virtual visits, allowing our medical providers to easily connect with patients for all of their healthcare needs, including assessment/screening of COVID-19 symptoms or any other healthcare problems, such as acute illnesses and trauma, help managing chronic illness and prescription medication as needed all from the safety of your home.

AFC/TeleCare enables providers to quickly treat and as necessary, refer patients to the nearest AFC clinic or connect them to other healthcare entities as needed. American Family Care’s AFC/TeleCare service helps to stem the spread of coronavirus infection while still providing the quality and convenient care patients have come to know and trust.

“I’ve always felt telemedicine had an important role in healthcare, and now the COVID-19 pandemic has catapulted virtual visits into the mainstream,” says AFC’s Founder and CEO, Dr. Bruce Irwin. “Our country has such an enormous need for telemedicine right now that the government and insurance companies urge people to use it and will now pay for it. However, virtual medicine only works properly within an existing healthcare network of brick and mortar facilities. With more than 230 clinics in 24 states across the country, AFC is prepared and equipped as an unbeatable, cost-effective and efficient healthcare delivery system.”

Expansion of Services

AFC/TeleCare is an extension of the consistent, state-of-the-art treatment American Family Care has always offered inside its brick and mortar locations for 38 years. During this pandemic, medical providers will instruct suspected COVID-19 patients to follow CDC next-steps for testing. For those not suspected to have COVID-19, the medical providers will recommend treatment and if needed, prescribe medication. AFC/TeleCare providers will refill prescriptions for their roster of AFC patients and those unaffiliated with AFC, so they don’t risk infection at doctor appointments.

“With self-isolation in this unprecedented healthcare crisis, we know this is a trying, stressful time, especially if you get sick,” says Dr. Irwin. “With AFC/TeleCare, we can assess 85 percent of the health issues people face, so they never have to walk into a clinic. The other 15 percent we can treat at one of our clinics where we provide x-rays, laboratory testing, stitches, casts and splints. Whether you’re suffering from COVID-19, allergies, the flu or a chronic condition, our goal with AFC/TeleCare is to quickly diagnose and provide treatment, saving time as we continue to save lives.”

How AFC/TeleCare Works:

The goal is to relieve an already burdened health care system, reduce vulnerable populations to coronavirus exposure and provide medical care to patients who are quarantined at home or practicing social distancing. In a virtual visit, physicians and advanced practice providers will screen you for COVID-19 and other illnesses. They can prescribe medications even if you’re not a regular AFC patient. If you need in-person treatment, they will recommend you visit an AFC clinic or other local healthcare facility. Visits can be performed on anyone old enough to consent, utilizing a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Most insurance companies will cover the cost for a copay fee. If insurance doesn’t cover, a flat fee may be charged. Fees and hours of service may vary by location. To find the AFC closest to you, go to http://www.afcurgentcare.com/locations and click on the COVID-19 banner at the top to make a virtual appointment.

About American Family Care:

Founded by Dr. Bruce Irwin with a single location in 1982, American Family Care has pioneered the concept of convenient, patient-centric healthcare. Today, with more than 200 clinics and 600 in-network physicians caring for nearly 3 million patients a year, AFC is the nation’s leading provider of urgent care, accessible primary care, and occupational medicine. Ranked by Inc. magazine as one of the fastest-growing companies in the U.S., AFC’s stated mission is to provide the best healthcare possible, in a kind and caring environment, while respecting the rights of all patients, in an economical manner, at times and locations convenient to the patient. For more information, visit http://www.AmericanFamilyCare.com.

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New York City 3D printing company Shapeways is crowdsourcing coronavirus face shields


A prototype of a medical face shield

A prototype of a medical face shield

“My entire sale team is talking to doctors and to hospitals all day about the need for face shields.” – Shapeways CEO Gregory Kress

American hospital workers are in desperate need of personal protective equipment (PPE) to stay safe while treating Coronavirus-infected patients.

Staffers are in particular need of face shields, which protect them from patients’ coughs and sneezes that can transmit coronavirus. Earlier this week, The Wall Street Journal reported that New York City mayor Bill de Blasio’s office was in the process of ordering 1.5 million face shields over the next 3 months.

New York City-based 3D printing company Shapeways is stepping up.

On Monday, the company launched a medical face shield e-commerce page, where anyone with a credit card or PayPal account can purchase the PPE for hospitals in need. In less than 24 hours, the landing page has facilitated over 1,100 purchases.

Shapeways prints the masks at its Long Island City factory, which has been granted an exemption by the New York City government to remain open.

“There is a clear gap between the amount of face shields hospitals need and their purchasing budgets,” says Shapeways CEO Gregory Kress. “There is also an information gap among the general public. People hear in the news that hospitals are undersupplied, but they don’t know how to help. As the world’s largest online 3D printing platform, we have the ability to bridge that gap – to connect people who want to contribute money to end this outbreak with hospitals who need money to pay for face shields.”

Unlike cheaper face shields that cost $1 to $2 to manufacture, Shapeways’ shields are medical-grade, can be sanitized and can be re-used multiple times.

More importantly, Shapeways is able to print its face shields and get them into hospitals in as little as 24 hours, and can supply thousands of shields a day.

“We are basically only printing face shields at this point,” says Shapeways Chief Revenue Officer Miko Levy. “This is our main focus and effort. We are sending them to hospitals, and to municipal officials. I was just talking to New York City officials the last few days, and I’ve spoken to other officials from across the country. This is their priority, and it’s our priority.”

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