iHealthBeat: Patient Safety

CMS, NASA Announce Contest for Software To Screen Health Providers

Tue, 29 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

CMS and NASA's Federal Center of Excellence for Collaborative Innovation could award up to $600,000 for the creation of open-source software that improves the health care provider screening process for Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program. Modern Healthcare.

Dictation Linked With Worse Care Than Other EHR Input Methods

Thu, 24 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A study finds that doctors who dictate their notes for uploading to electronic health record systems received "significantly worse" care quality scores for certain patient outcomes measures than physicians who used two other documentation methods. NextGov, FierceEMR.

FDA, Stakeholders Discuss Creation of Rx Drug Tracking System

Fri, 18 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, FDA and industry stakeholders discussed a proposal to create a national prescription drug tracking system to combat counterfeit drugs. The provision could be added to a bill to reauthorize FDA's prescription drug and medical device user-fee programs. Politico et al.

FCC Aims To Allocate Spectrum for Wireless Medical Technology

Thu, 17 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Federal Communications Commission has announced a plan to allocate spectrum for medical body area networks, which use wireless sensors to monitor patients and transmit data to a central computer. FCC is set to vote on the plan next week. The Hill's "Hillicon Valley" et al.

EHR Tool Could Help Reduce Unnecessary CT Scans, Study Finds

Mon, 14 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new study by researchers from the University of Pennsylvania finds that an accountability tool embedded in an electronic health record system could reduce unnecessary CT scans among emergency department patients with abdominal pain. United Press International, CMIO.

Utah Database Includes Disciplinary Records on Licensed Physicians

Fri, 11 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

An upgraded database developed by the Utah Department of Occupational and Professional Licensing offers information on disciplinary orders against licensed health professionals, including explanations and copies of the disciplinary actions. Government Technology.

Missouri State Senator Blocks Bill To Create Rx Tracking Database

Mon, 07 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Last week, a Missouri state senator led an eight-hour filibuster to block the passage of a bill that would have authorized the state to create a prescription drug monitoring database. The senator said the bill would have infringed on patients' privacy rights. AP/Kansas City Star.

IOM Urges FDA To Boost Post-Approval Rx Drug Monitoring

Wed, 02 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

An Institute of Medicine report recommends that FDA improve its processes for monitoring the safety of prescription drugs after they are approved. FDA currently uses IT initiatives like the Sentinel system to conduct post-approval monitoring of prescription drug safety. According to IOM, improvements in health IT and analytics could help advance such monitoring efforts. Reuters et al.

Survey: Most Nurses Want Mobile Access to Medication Handbooks

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A survey finds that 85% of nurses and nursing students say they would like to access prescription drug guides through their mobile phones. Seventy-one percent of nursing professionals said they use a smartphone for work. FierceMobileHealthcare, Wolters Kluwer Health release.

Report Finds Improvement in Warnings From CPOE Systems

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A simulated test conducted by the Leapfrog Group finds that computerized provider order entry systems did not generate appropriate warnings for more than one-third of routine medication orders in 2011. The group previously found that CPOE systems did not generate appropriate alerts for about half of routine medication orders between 2008 and 2010. Modern Healthcare, FierceHealthIT.

As EHR Adoption Rises, Experts Raise Concerns About Safety of Systems

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Experts are raising concerns about the safety of electronic health record systems as the tools become more widespread. However, some stakeholders are hesitant to focus on EHR safety out of fear that doctors will be reluctant to adopt the systems. Boston Globe, Health Affairs.

Editorial Praises N.Y.'s Effort To Create Rx Drug Monitoring Database

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

According to a New York Times editorial, New York lawmakers are approaching a deal on legislation to create a real-time database to track prescriptions for controlled substances. The editorial states that such a system could help curb prescription drug misuse. New York Times.

FDA Using Health IT To Monitor Drug Safety After Market Approval

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

FDA is leveraging IT initiatives like the Sentinel program as part of its efforts to better monitor drugs after they are approved for the market. Sentinel is an electronic surveillance system that tracks drug safety information from various databases. Reuters, Modern Healthcare.

E-Rx Could Improve Monitoring of Off-Label Drug Use, Study Finds

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Including treatment indications in electronic prescriptions could make it easier to track off-label usage of prescription drugs, according to a study. The study finds that 11% of e-prescriptions issued through a Canadian electronic health record network were for off-label use. CMIO.

Ky. Lawmakers Consider Expanding Access to Rx Drug Tracking System

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Kentucky lawmakers are weighing a bill to expand access to the state's prescription drug tracking database. Supporters say the bill would help law enforcement officials combat prescription drug misuse, while opponents say the bill could lead to invasions of privacy. Wall Street Journal.

HHS Stresses IT in Plan To Curb Health Care-Related Infections

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A newly revised draft of HHS' National Action Plan To Prevent Healthcare-Associated Infections emphasizes how health IT could play a role in monitoring and preventing HAIs. The draft action plan notes that clinical decision support tools in electronic health record systems could generate HAI prevention reminders. Modern Healthcare, Health Data Management.

Senators Push for Fast Action on Medical Device Tracking System

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

An FDA user fee bill introduced by Sens. Tom Harkin and Michael Enzi includes language that would require HHS to issue a final rule establishing a unique device identifier system for medical devices by the end of 2012. The language calls for HHS to implement the UDI system to electronically track and recall faulty medical devices "as soon as practical." Health Data Management.

Researchers Create Prototype Firewall To Protect Medical Devices

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

To prevent hackers from manipulating wireless medical devices, researchers from Princeton and Purdue universities have created a prototype firewall that would monitor data sent and received by medical devices and block malicious code. United Press International, CMIO.

Medical App Developers Struggle To Prepare for Regulation From FDA

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Developers of mobile medical applications are facing difficulties preparing for FDA regulation. Many mobile app developers are used to working in the somewhat unregulated Internet sector and are worried that FDA oversight could hinder innovation in the creation of medical apps. Politico.

Organization Releases New Version of Adverse Event Reporting System

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

ECRI Institute Patient Safety Organization recently unveiled the latest version of its adverse event collection and reporting system. Member organizations can submit data manually or import information from their own adverse event reporting systems. CMIO, Healthcare IT News.

Interoperability Issues Hamper Rx Drug Tracking for Marines

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A report from the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General finds that a lack of interoperability between two electronic health record systems has led to problems tracking controlled substances prescribed to U.S. Marines. The report also outlines concerns about an inability to cross-check medications prescribed by civilian and military clinicians. Modern Healthcare, NextGov.

ONC Launches Contest for Apps To Help Report Patient Safety Incidents

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT is inviting developers to create health IT applications that could make it easier for health care providers to report patient safety events. Submissions are due by July 23. Health Data Management, Government Health IT.

FDA Prepares To Unveil Monitoring Program for Medical Device Safety

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Sometime this month, FDA is expected to launch a new medical device safety monitoring program. One of the proposals for the program is to create a unique device identifier number for medical devices to enable electronic tracking of problematic equipment. Wall Street Journal.

Clinicians Ignore Most Drug Alerts From CPOE Systems, Study Finds

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A study presented at a Society of Hospital Medicine meeting finds that clinicians ignore or override most drug warning alerts generated by hospitals' computerized provider order entry systems. Researchers say alarm fatigue could be contributing to the problem. MedPage Today.

Opinion Piece Stumps for National Rx Drug Monitoring Initiative

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In an opinion piece, American Medical Association President Peter Carmel urges Congress to pass legislation that would strengthen state-based electronic prescription drug monitoring programs and promote data exchange among such programs. The Hill's "Congress Blog."

R.I., U.S. To Split $500M Google Settlement Over Online Pharmacy Ads

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Rhode Island is set to receive about $230 million from a $500 million settlement that Google agreed to pay over claims that it let illegal online pharmacies display Web advertisements. The remaining settlement funds will go to federal authorities. Boston Globe, AP/USA Today.

Joint Commission Opens Portal on Health Care-Associated Infections

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Joint Commission has launched an online portal to give health care providers access to data and tools on health care-associated infections. The portal includes information on common infections and prevention strategies. Modern Physician, Health Data Management.

Study: Poor Health IT Planning Could Affect Quality of Care

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A study finds that poorly planned health IT implementation could negatively affect the quality of patient care. Researchers conducted interviews at seven Department of Veterans Affairs hospitals and examined how health IT implementation affected inpatient care. CMIO.

Drug Alerts in EHRs Contribute to Alarm Fatigue, Study Finds

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A study by researchers from the Regenstrief Institute and the Department of Veterans Affairs finds that electronic health record-based medication alerts might occur too frequently and contain too much information to be helpful to busy clinicians. According to the study, many health care providers said they were unsure why certain alerts appeared. FierceHealthIT, Becker's Hospital Review.

Study: Credentialed Online Pharmacies Sell Authentic Rx Drugs

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

According to a National Bureau of Economic Research study, online pharmacies with credentials from certain organizations sell authentic prescription drugs. However, researchers found that some unverified websites sold fake products. Wall Street Journal's "Health Blog."

Physicians Using Data Exchanges Order Fewer Lab Tests, Study Finds

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A study finds that doctors who can access patients' prior test results through a health data exchange order fewer laboratory tests than doctors without such access. The findings appear to conflict with a Health Affairs study linking electronic health record use to more imaging tests. Reuters.

Report: Global Remote Patient Monitoring Market Poised To Grow

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A recent report by GBI Research predicts that the global market for remote patient monitoring devices will grow from $6.1 billion in 2010 to $8 billion by 2017. The report notes that China and India could be "potentially lucrative markets" for growth. MobiHealthNews, FierceHealthIT.

FDA Working To Reduce 'Alarm Fatigue' Through Tougher Device Reviews

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

FDA is taking steps to curb "alarm fatigue" in hospitals by increasing its pre-market scrutiny of medical devices that issue potentially unnecessary alarms. For example, the agency is providing its reviewers with additional training on alarm standards and safety. Boston Globe.

E-Health Records: Are We Safe(r) Yet?

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

While electronic health records have helped improve safety in certain ways -- making patient information more readily available and eliminating handwriting-related errors -- new safety challenges stemming from poor EHR usability, alert fatigue and inadequate training have emerged.

Study: Few States Make Surgical-Site Infection Data Available Online

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A study finds that only 21 states require public reporting of surgical-site infection rates and only eight of those states make the data readily accessible online. The researchers recommend the creation of national standards for public reporting of SSI rates. HealthLeaders Media et al.

Medical Boards Hearing Complaints of Physician Misconduct Online

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A study in the Journal of the American Medical Association finds that most state medical boards have received complaints about physicians engaging in inappropriate conduct online. Many of the boards have taken disciplinary action against the doctors. Modern Healthcare et al.

Probe: Mass. Omitting, Removing Data From Online Doctor Profiles

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

An investigation conducted by the Northeastern University Initiative for Investigative Reporting finds that Massachusetts' medical board routinely removes or omits disciplinary records, malpractice allegations and other information from its online public physician database. Boston Globe.

Researchers Develop Algorithm To Uncover Medication Side Effects

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Stanford University researchers have developed a computer algorithm that can search through FDA's adverse events database to identify previously unknown drug side effects. The algorithm also can help researchers identify adverse events caused by certain drug combinations. Nature et al.

New Bill Aims To Create System To Track Medical Device Safety

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, a bipartisan group of senators unveiled a bill that would require FDA to issue a final rule creating a unique device identifier system. A UDI system would help FDA electronically track medical devices and recall products that could jeopardize patient safety. The bill also would add medical devices to FDA's Sentinel post-market drug surveillance system. Becker's ASC Review et al.

Study: Software Could Help Detect Faulty Cardiac Device Leads

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A study suggests that automated safety surveillance software could identify defective implantable cardiac device leads earlier than currently used methods. Data show that the software would have triggered an alert about the Sprint Fidelis lead two years before it was recalled. CMIO et al.

Study: Hospital Quality Reporting Site Did Not Affect Mortality Rates

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new Health Affairs study finds that requiring hospitals to post data to a CMS website did not affect 30-day mortality rates for heart attack or pneumonia. The study suggests that consumers did not use the site to identify higher-quality hospitals. Modern Healthcare et al.

Republican Lawmakers Seek Details on Federal Email Monitoring Policy

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Sen. Chuck Grassley and Rep. Darrell Issa have sent a letter asking the Office of Management and Budget to evaluate email surveillance policies at all federal agencies. The letter comes amid an investigation into FDA's email monitoring practices. Washington Post's "Federal Eye."

Experts Call for Creation of Interoperable State Rx Drug Tracking Systems

Fri, 02 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

During a House subcommittee hearing, experts recommended that lawmakers help states build interoperable prescription drug monitoring systems. Such systems would be able to communicate with each other to help identify and curb prescription drug misuse. C-SPAN et al.

Lawmaker Introduces Bill To Create Registry of Safe Online Pharmacies

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Rep. Bill Cassidy has introduced legislation that would create a registry of safe online pharmacies to help consumers avoid illegal online drug retailers and counterfeit medications. Cassidy hopes to attach the measure to an FDA reauthorization bill. The Hill's "Healthwatch."

Mobile Devices Aid Individuals With PTSD, Substance Use Problems

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Researchers have published preliminary data on the testing of a wireless device that can detect physiological stressors associated with drug cravings or post-traumatic stress and then send a message to users' smartphones. Boston Globe, Mass High Tech.

Investigators Announce Expansion of Probe Into FDA Email Monitoring

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Office of Special Counsel is broadening its probe into allegations that FDA monitored the personal emails of employees who expressed concern about medical device safety. OSC said the emails monitored by FDA included messages sent to OSC. The Hill's "Healthwatch" et al.

Future of Calif.'s Rx Drug Monitoring Database Could Be in Jeopardy

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Federal officials are worried about the future of California's prescription drug monitoring system. Because of state budget cuts, the database is dependent on annual grants and staff has been reduced to one individual. KQED's "The California Report."

N.Y. AG Offers Proposal for Creating Real-Time Rx Monitoring Database

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new plan by New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman would enhance the state's prescription drug monitoring system by launching a real-time database for reporting prescriptions when they are issued and filled. Ithaca Journal, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle.

Senators Push for Release of Medical Device Tracking Rule

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, three senators sent a letter asking the Office of Management and Budget to explain why a rule to create a medical device identification system has been delayed and to provide a timeline for when it will be released. FDA sent OMB a plan for creating a unique device identifier system in July 2011. Modern Healthcare, CQ HealthBeat.

FDA Says It Monitored Staff Email as Part of Data Leak Investigation

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, an FDA spokesperson explained that the agency began monitoring the personal email of employees who raised concerns over medical device safety as part of an investigation into allegations that confidential data were being leaked. Washington Post.

CPOE Implementation Curbs Drug-Related Injury, Study Finds

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A study in the Journal of General Internal Medicine finds that computerized provider order entry systems can help hospitals reduce adverse drug events. However, the study's authors say more research is needed on the best ways to implement CPOE systems. News-Medical et al.

University of Michigan Launches Initiative To Track Surgery Tools

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The University of Michigan Health System is using technology to track surgical items during operations. For example, it has implemented an electronic radiology order system and placed radiopaque tags and barcodes on surgical sponges. FierceHealthIT, CMIO.

Study: Texts Can Boost Prenatal, Postnatal Care for Pregnant Women

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A study finds that sending text messages about childbirth preparation to pregnant women can improve prenatal and postnatal care. Researchers say texting could be a low-cost way to engage pregnant women in their care. FierceMobileHealthcare, Partners HealthCare release.

Study Sees Benefits in Creating Database for Emergency Surgery

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A study in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons suggests that an emergency general surgery registry could improve patient outcomes and advance research in the same way that the National Trauma Data Bank improved trauma care. FierceHealthIT, ACS release.

FDA's Medical Device Tracking Plan Remains Stalled at OMB

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

FDA's proposal to track medical devices with unique device identifiers has been stalled at the Office of Management and Budget since last summer. Patient advocates say that delaying implementation of UDIs could pose patient safety risks. OMB officials have not given a reason for the delay but say it is not uncommon for the agency to extend reviews of certain regulations. Politico.

Grassley Urges FDA To Explain Why it Monitored Staff Emails

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Sen. Chuck Grassley has asked FDA to explain why it monitored the personal email of employees who raised concerns about medical device safety. He asked FDA whether the monitoring targeted only whistleblowers and whether the agency still is intercepting personal emails. A spokesperson said FDA Commissioner Margaret Hamburg will respond to Grassley directly. The Hill's "Healthwatch" et al.

CMS Posts Central-Line Infection Data to its Hospital Compare Site

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Data on central line-associated infections in intensive care units have been added to CMS' Hospital Compare website, which aims to help consumers compare various data on hospital quality. The agency will add information on surgical-site and urinary tract infections next year. Salt Lake City Deseret News et al.

Mass. Senate To Vote on Bill To Bolster Online Rx Monitoring Database

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Tomorrow, the Massachusetts state Senate plans to vote on legislation that would require physicians to check an online database before prescribing certain controlled substances. The bill aims to curb the misuse of painkillers like oxycodone. Boston Globe, AP/CBS News.

E-Prescribing Systems Can Help Reduce Drug Errors, Study Finds

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new PLoS Medicine study by researchers at Australia's University of New South Wales finds that the implementation of commercial electronic prescribing systems led to significant reductions in medication errors at two teaching hospitals in Sydney. However, researchers note that e-prescribing software sometimes can contribute to medication mistakes. MedPage Today et al.

Startups Aim To Help Patients Search Medical Adverse Event Reports

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

AdverseEvents and Clarimed recently launched online databases with adverse event information from prescription drugs and medical devices. The companies hope the databases will empower patients to use the Internet to look up medical information. Wall Street Journal.

Suit Accuses FDA of Monitoring Personal Emails of Employees

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Six current and former FDA scientists and physicians have filed a lawsuit alleging that FDA monitored their personal emails after they informed congressional staffers that the agency approved medical devices that might pose risks to patients. FDA's computer system warns its employees that they should not expect their communications to be private. Washington Post.

Federal Sting Led to Case Against Google for Allowing Illegal Rx Ads

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

New details have emerged about an undercover operation that the federal government used to gather evidence that Google allowed illegal pharmacies to display Web advertisements. Google paid $500 million to settle the allegations in August 2011. Wall Street Journal, Ars Technica.

Q4 2011 Saw Surge of Federal Health IT Activity

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The last quarter of 2011 included numerous important federal health IT developments, including the Institute of Medicine's release of a report on patient safety and health IT and HHS' changes to the meaningful use incentive program timeline.

Remote Dermatology Consultations Can Boost Outcomes, Study Finds

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Patients who have live, interactive telemedicine consultations with dermatologists could receive better treatment and have better outcomes, according to a study. About 69% of patients who had at least two such visits in a year saw clinical improvements. Modern Healthcare, FierceHealthIT.

Stakeholders Respond to Federal Proposal To Give Patients Full Access to Their Lab Results

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Kate Christensen of Kaiser Permanente, Jason DuBois of the American Clinical Laboratory Association, Lawrence Hughes of the American Hospital Association and Eva Powell of the National Partnership for Women & Families spoke with iHealthBeat about a new federal proposal to give patients full access to their laboratory results.

Study: Nurses Using EHR Systems Report Better Patient Health Outcomes

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new study published in the Journal of Nursing Administration finds that U.S. nurses who used electronic health record systems consistently saw improvements in patient care and outcomes. United Press International, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing release.

Researchers Testing New Database To Gather Info on Sudden Infant Deaths

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Researchers have published preliminary results from a pilot program testing a new database to track cases of sudden unexpected infant deaths. The database collects information on the circumstances surrounding an infant's death. Fierce Health IT, MyHealthNewsDaily/Fox News.

Medical Students Using Virtual Human Bodies To Learn About Anatomy

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

At New York University's School of Medicine, students are using new 3-D technology to dissect virtual human bodies and watch simulated organs function as they would in a living human. NYU officials said the virtual bodies complement the use of cadavers. New York Times.

FDA Developing App To Monitor Drug Reactions in Public Health Crises

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

FDA plans to develop a mobile application that would let clinicians instantly track and report adverse drug events during public health emergencies. The agency aims to contract with a software developer that could build a prototype of the app within one year. NextGov.

Studies: Researchers Fail To Report Clinical Trial Data to Federal Website

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

According to a series of studies published in the British Medical Journal, many researchers fail to report clinical trial results to an NIH website within 12 months as required by FDA. An editorial accompanying the studies calls for tighter enforcement of the requirement. Reuters et al.

FDA Issues Guidance on Using Social Media to Discuss Drugs, Devices

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

FDA has released draft guidelines on how drug companies and medical device makers can use social media tools to answer consumer questions about off-label uses of their products. FDA is accepting comment on the draft guidance until March 26. Fierce Government IT et al.

Health Workers Express Concern Over Heart Monitor Alarm Fatigue

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Health care providers are expressing concern over alarm fatigue resulting from more widespread use of heart monitors. The broader use of heart monitors means clinicians hear more alarms from the devices and could become desensitized to such alerts. Boston Globe.

Boston Researchers Use Mathematical Model To Predict Drug Reactions

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Children's Hospital Boston researchers have developed a mathematical model that uses analytics to predict potential future adverse drug events. Using 2005 data, the model predicted 42% of the adverse drug relationships that were identified by 2010. Modern Healthcare, U.S. News & World Report.

Few New York Doctors Using Prescription Drug Monitoring Database

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Of the roughly 80,000 New York state health care providers who can prescribe controlled substances and other drugs, only 2,216 had used a state prescription drug monitoring database as of last month, according to the state Department of Health. Long Island Newsday.

Sens. Question CMS on Progress of Predictive Modeling Technology

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

A bipartisan group of senators has asked CMS to evaluate the effectiveness of a new project that uses predictive modeling tools to detect potential Medicare fraud. CMS said it already is assessing the project and will update Congress on the results. Modern Healthcare, NextGov.

Researchers Use 'Virtual Patients' To Safely Test Health Care Procedures

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Researchers are using "virtual patients" to test certain medical devices and procedures to avoid patient safety risks that could arise if real people were involved. Such tests include measuring the effects of radiation on women who are pregnant. Wall Street Journal.

Gov't Seeks To Ensure Patient Safety While Promoting Health IT

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The federal government is taking steps to balance patient safety with its promotion of widespread health IT adoption. In a recent report, the Institute of Medicine offered a variety of recommendations for ensuring that health IT use does not lead to unintended patient safety consequences.

Lawmaker Urges HHS To Address 'Alarm Fatigue' Among Health Providers

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Massachusetts Rep. Edward Markey has sent a letter to HHS calling on federal officials to take steps to address "alarm fatigue," in which medical staff ignore or become desensitized to alerts from medical devices. Boston Globe's "White Coat Notes," CMIO.

AHRQ, RAND Release Online Guide To Assist in EHR Adoption, Use

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality partnered with RAND to release a no-cost, online guide to help organizations anticipate and address unintended consequences that can occur during electronic health record implementation and use. CMIO, RAND release.

Use of Devices in Care Settings Can Distract Physicians, Experts Say

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Despite the potential benefits of using mobile phones, computers and other devices for clinical purposes, experts warn that such tools can distract physicians and compromise patient safety. In response, some health care facilities are taking steps to limit distractions in patient care settings. New York Times.

Axial Exchange Takes First Prize in HHS' Patient Safety Contest

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Axial Exchange has won the top prize in HHS' "Ensuring Safe Transitions" contest with a Web application that lets health care providers, emergency responders and health plans use various devices to share patient treatment data. Health Data Management, Healthcare IT News.

Rule Will Conceal Information on Queries to Physician Database

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Under a federal rule that takes effect Dec. 23, health care providers no longer will receive notification if someone uses the National Practitioner Data Bank to access information on them for an investigation. HHS officials said the rule aims to prevent tampering with evidence and make it easier for law enforcement agencies to investigate physicians. American Medical News.

Crackdown on Pill Mills Could Lead to Rise in Illegal Web Pharmacies

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

As state officials enforce laws against pill mills, more U.S. residents are expected to turn to illegal online pharmacies to obtain addictive painkiller medications. Some of the illegal online pharmacies use social networking sites to market their drugs. Palm Beach Post.

TRICARE Seeks Vendor Support for Joint DOD, VA Pharmacy System

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

TRICARE is seeking information on commercial products as it begins the development of a joint electronic pharmacy system for the departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs. According to industry experts, the joint pharmacy system would be the largest in the world. NextGov.

Radiology Group Touts Image Sharing Network as Way To Improve Care

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The Radiological Society of North America is developing an image sharing network to help patients store and share radiological images through personal health records. RSNA says the network could reduce unnecessary tests and limit radiation exposure. Healthcare IT News et al.

Hospital Uses Electronic Video System To Boost Handwashing Rates

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

According to a recent study, New York-based North Shore University Hospital improved its hand hygiene compliance rate from 6.5% three years ago to more than 80% today after installing an electronic video monitoring system in its intensive care unit. New York Times.

Bill To Provide More Protection for EHR Users Faces Opposition

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Legislation introduced by Pennsylvania Rep. Tom Marino that would give electronic health record users more legal protection if a medical error occurs while using EHRs is facing criticism. Some opponents of the measure argue that the legislation could weaken incentives for vendors to make improvements to EHR systems. Becker's Hospital Review, Wilkes-Barre Times Leader.

Calif. Pension System's Computer Glitches Led to Coverage Problems

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

California Public Employees' Retirement System recently switched to a new $507 million computer system. The shift has affected certain payments and has generated erroneous letters informing some members that their health insurance has been canceled. Sacramento Bee.

National, Independent Safety Board Needed for EHRs, Report Says

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

A new report published in the Journal of Patient Safety calls for the creation of a national, independent board to oversee electronic health record safety. The report's authors say that institutional safety panels could investigate and report EHR safety issues to the national board. Health Data Management.

Advocacy Group Seeks Full Access to Doctor Malpractice Database

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Consumers Union is urging HHS to allow full and uncensored access to the public use file of the National Practitioner Data Bank, an online database that tracks physician malpractice issues. HHS recently restored access to the database but with new rules. HealthLeaders Media.

Study: Clinical Decision Support Tools Improve Hospital Care Quality

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

A new study published in the Journal of Hospital Medicine finds that hospitals using the clinical decision support software UpToDate had higher care quality scores, shorter lengths of patient hospital stays and lower mortality rates than hospitals that were not using the system. Wall Street Journal's "Health Blog."

Report Identifies Top Nine Ways IT Benefits Health Care Industry

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Consulting firm Booz Allen Hamilton has released a list of the top nine ways that IT is changing the U.S. health care system. Booz Allen says health IT tools can reduce medical errors and facilitate seamless transitions in care settings. Becker's Hospital Review, Healthcare IT News.

Study: Clinical Decision Support Systems Do Not Generate Cost Savings

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

A new study finds that clinical decision support systems would need to cost less or lead to better clinical outcomes to be a cost-effective intervention for treating patients with Type 2 diabetes. Researchers note that larger-scale implementations of clinical decision support systems might be more cost effective. CMIO.

CDC Launches Electronic System To Track Use of Antibiotic Drugs

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Today, CDC announced the launch of an electronic system to track antibiotic use in hospitals. Hospitals that already send data to CDC's National Healthcare Safety Network can use the new system by electronically submitting pharmacy information. In addition, CDC has provided funding to help health departments implement the system in 70 hospitals. The Hill's "Healthwatch" et al.

HIMSS Chief Comments on IOM Report, Touts Safety Benefits of EHRs

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

H. Stephen Lieber -- president and CEO of the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society – called a recent Institute of Medicine report a "notable contribution" to health IT safety efforts but stressed that electronic health records can benefit patient safety. Modern Healthcare, HIMSS statement.

Mostashari Responds to IOM Report, Says ONC Working on Safety Plan

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

National Coordinator for Health IT Farzad Mostashari expressed appreciation for the Institute of Medicine's work in a recent report about health IT safety issues. He also noted that his office is leading an effort to develop a health IT safety plan. Modern Healthcare et al.

HHS Restores Access to Physician Database, With New Requirement

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

HHS' Health Resources and Services Administration has reopened an online database containing physician malpractice and disciplinary case information. HRSA officials said users must not combine information from the database with publicly available records that could be used to identify physicians. One group says the restrictions could be unconstitutional. New York Times et al.

Organizations Team Up To Promote Reporting of EHR Safety Issues

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society's Electronic Health Record Association, which represents EHR vendors, plans to collaborate with the iHealth Alliance to promote the use of an online tool that tracks EHR-related medical errors. InformationWeek et al.

IOM Calls for Creation of New Agency To Investigate Health IT

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

An Institute of Medicine report that is scheduled to be publicly released on Thursday recommends that HHS create a new independent watchdog agency to investigate the safety of health IT systems, rather than give such authority to FDA. According to IOM, FDA lacks the funds, investigative capabilities and manpower to regulate health IT systems. iWatch News, Modern Healthcare.

Doctors Say EHRs Are Safer Than Paper Charts; Patients Are Split

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Fifty-three percent of U.S. physicians who responded to a recent GfK Roper survey said they believe electronic health records are safer than paper-based records, while 18% of physicians said they believe paper charts are safer. Patients' views were more mixed, with 47% of patients saying paper records are safer and 39% saying EHRs are safer. Becker's Hospital Review et al.