Thursday, May 28, 2009

NCPO: Medication and Counseling Vital for Healthcare Reform, Implementation and Future Patient Care Improvements

Improving patients' adherence to medications would improve lives, reduce costs

From Reform to Revolution: Maximizing the Power of Proper Medication Use in Patient Care

Washington, D.C. (Vocus/PRWEB ) May 28, 2009 -- In a policy statement released today, the National Conference of Pharmaceutical Organizations (NCPO) called on Congress and the Administration to reap the full benefits of medications and medication counseling as they develop healthcare reform legislation and other policies.

The statement, titled "From Reform to Revolution: Maximizing the Power of Proper Medication Use in Patient Care," reflects a cohesive voice for associations in the pharmaceutical and pharmacy value chain. NCPO serves as a forum for the leadership of the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy, the American Pharmacists Association, the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, the Consumer Healthcare Products Association, the Generic Pharmaceutical Association, the Healthcare Distribution Management Association, the National Association of Chain Drug Stores, the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy, the National Community Pharmacists Association and the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America.

"The use of prescription and over-the-counter medications fills an important role in meeting the public's healthcare needs," NCPO wrote in its policy statement. "We believe policymakers must consider the importance of access to medication therapy and appropriate counseling on the use of medications when developing health system reforms - including legislation, subsequent implementing regulations and future improvements."

"Providing access to prescription and over-the-counter medications, through a coordinated care approach involving the pharmacist working in collaboration with physicians and other healthcare providers, should be a central piece of any health reform agenda."

The policy statement described several statistics, including the estimated $177 billion in annual direct and indirect costs that result from poor medication adherence. "Poor adherence, particularly in the case of those with chronic diseases, leads to unnecessary disease progression, reduced functional status, a lower quality of life and premature death. These consequences of nonadherence to medications translate into increased usage of costly healthcare services, such as emergency department visits and hospitalizations," NCPO said.

NCPO recommended the following components of healthcare reform:

 
  • Every American should have access to the most appropriate clinically effective medications, whether they are available as a generic, brand or over-the-counter medication, as well as counseling on proper medication use and the importance of adherence to medication.

 
  • National goals for the improvement of health care quality should include evaluating provider performance through measurement, public reporting of quality measures, and providing incentives for improving patient outcomes.

 
  • Health systems focused on coordinated care should be available to all patients, with access to a care coordinator who can help them manage their health effectively and ensure compliance with prescription drug therapy.

 
  • Fair reimbursement to health care providers should include costs related to dispensing medications and pharmacist-provided care, such as medication therapy management (MTM). Providing services such as MTM is especially important to patients with chronic disease since chronic diseases are the number one cause of death and disability in the U.S. and treating patients with chronic conditions accounts for 75 percent of the nation's health care spending.

 
  • Health information technology, including electronic prescribing and electronic medical records, should be incorporated and used appropriately by providers to improve patient health outcomes, coordinate patient care, and aid in appropriate health research.

 
  • Preventive services such as healthcare screenings and immunizations, medication therapy management and disease management should be covered and promoted through outreach and education for optimal utilization.

 
  • Behaviors that promote health and wellness should be encouraged.

The National Conference of Pharmaceutical Organizations (NCPO) brings together the associations that represent those directly involved in patient care utilizing vital medications. The associations engaged in this collaborative forum include those focused on medication discovery, manufacturing and distribution, and those focused on pharmacy practice, education and oversight. Together, they foster advancements in the contributions of medications and pharmacists to society.

Contact:
Chrissy Kopple (NACDS)
For NCPO
(703) 837-4266

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Girl Falls 30 feet through a Skylight and New York Personal Injury Lawyer David Perecman is not Falling for Excuses

New York personal injury lawyer David Perecman questions the presence of an unfenced skylight near a rooftop playground.

New York, NY (PRWEB) May 28, 2009 -- A girl falls 30 feet through a skylight and New York personal injury lawyer David Perecman knows that this is a lucky fall. A 30-foot drop has the potential to cause far more severe injuries then only the broken arm and leg suffered by the eight year old. A fall like this can be fatal.

New York Construction Accident Lawyers

This fall highlights the need for building managers and owners to carefully monitor the health and safety procedures in place
Mr. Perecman and other New York personal injury lawyers wonder why there was no railing around this skylight that was located next to a rooftop playgroup.

"This fall highlights the need for building managers and owners to carefully monitor the health and safety procedures in place," says personal injury lawyer Perecman. "Building managers must practice good risk management practices and view it from the eyes of a child."

The girl, whose name was not released, was walking towards a staircase to retrieve a ball that had fallen to the street when the skylight she was walking on gave way. No one else was injured.

The school the girl was attending shares its space with a popular Jewish wedding hall. The skylight allows for couples to marry in accordance with the rules of a traditional Jewish wedding, which requires an "open sky directly above" the ceremony. New York personal injury lawyer Perecman is quick to point out that an 8-year old girl would not understand the dangers associated with stepping onto an unfenced skylight near a playground.

New York personal injury lawyers predict that if this case goes to trial the building managers and owners are going to have a difficult time defending the lack of precaution. New York State law requires landlords to take reasonable precautions in the face of potential injury and the failure on their part to do so will see liability fall on them.

About David Perecman and The Perecman Firm, PLLC:

For the past 25 years, the New York personal injury, construction accident, auto accident and medical malpractice lawyers at The Perecman Firm, PLLC have championed all types of cases for personal injury. David Perecman, founder of the Firm, is the current Secretary of the New York State Trial Lawyers Association (NYSTLA) and a chair of its Labor Law Committee. Mr. Perecman's achievements have brought him recognition as an Honoree in the National Law Journal's Hall of Fame, in New York Magazine's "The Best Lawyers in America" and The New York Times Magazine "New York Super Lawyers, Metro Edition".

The Firm has recovered millions of dollars for its clients. Among the more recent victories, Mr. Perecman won a $15 million verdict* for a construction accident, a $5.35 million dollar verdict** for an automobile accident, and a $40 million dollar structured settlement for medical malpractice.

*later settled while on appeal for $7.940 million
**later settled for $3.5 million
"Lawyer Advertising"
"Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome."

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Albany Chief Executive Martin Glick to Speak at Co-Employment and Risk Forum

Conference addresses complex issues, risks in deploying contingent workers globally

Mountain View, CA (PRWEB) May 28, 2009 -- Martin Glick, Albany founder and chief executive officer, will join other experts speaking at the 2009 Contingent Workforce Strategies Co-Employment and Risk Forum, to be held June 18-19 at the Renaissance Washington DC Hotel.

Glick will participate in the panel discussion, “Global Risks in Managing Your Contingent Workforce.” Panelists will address the complexities companies face in making sure their use of contingent labor is compliant with labor and related laws once they cross national borders. The Forum is produced by Staffing Industry Analysts.

Global Risks in Managing Your Contingent Workforce.
“The benefits from the use of temporary employees and independent contractors come with significant risks for companies expanding into global markets,” said Glick. “It’s necessary to develop a strategic plan that addresses the unique legal, business and operating environments from country to country.”

For example, markets like Japan have extremely restrictive labor laws. Labor authorities there have the same power of arrest as the local police authorities. Technically, they can lead management out in handcuffs if they find a compliance problem. Non-compliance also carries heavy financial fines and penalties.

Companies must grasp the spectrum of risk they face in various international locations and develop appropriate plans. Glick’s advice is to take a country-by-country approach, as well as design an individual approach that considers the specific business environments, expectations of contingent workers, and the local regulations governing temporary labor. They can often benefit from recruiting local managers who speak the language and understand the local market and laws.

Glick has a good deal of familiarity in dealing with risk. He founded Albany in 1989, which is now one of the world’s leading workforce management companies with operations in over 70 countries. While not every country threatens arrest, companies that misclassify a worker can still be liable for payroll taxes, social security, and onerous interest and penalties.

Albany protects companies from risk by outsourcing the employment, compliance and administration of contingent workers through several program options. Albany also offers compliance audits on existing suppliers and workers; recommendations, training and sup¬port for managers; as well as solutions that allow ineligible independent contractors to be structured as employees.

About Albany
Albany’s innovation and professionalism over the last 20 years has helped it grow into the market leader for contingent workforce management solutions. With offices on six continents serving clients in more than 70 countries, Albany offers a variety of national and international workforce solutions, including contractor [payroll, Independent Contractor compliance, Managed Service Provider programs, Recruitment Process Management and Consulting, and visa & migration services.

Contact:
Jason Posel
Senior Vice President
1-800-664-5508
Jason.Posel (at) thealbanygroup (dot) com
http://www.thealbanygroup.com/usa

This press release was distributed through eMediawire by Human Resources Marketer (HR Marketer: www.HRmarketer.com) on behalf of the company listed above.

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TERIS to Host Fundraising Casino Night Party to Benefit Washington State CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates)

Free Event for Seattle area legal industry and business professionals features prize drawings worth thousands of dollars: Seattle helicopter tour, Seattle Mariners and Sounders tickets, weekend getaway, fishing excursion off Washington coast and more.

Seattle, WA (PRWEB) May 28, 2009 -- The weak economy and budget crisis have had a profound impact on many citizens and organizations in the Evergreen State, not the least of whom are the abused and neglected children who are in foster care. Proposed budget cuts to community organizations that provide social services to vulnerable children heighten the need for volunteer programs such as Washington State Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA).
   
In an effort to help raise funds and awareness for Washington State CASA, TERIS, a Seattle-based litigation support firm, is hosting a Casino Night and Poker Tournament on Wednesday, June 3rd at the Seattle Sheraton. The event is free to the legal and business community. In addition to traditional casino-type games such as roulette, blackjack and craps, the event will feature a drawing of prizes including an all-expense paid weekend getaway, helicopter tour of Seattle and a fishing excursion for two on the Washington coast.

"The value of the services that CASAs provide for neglected and abused children in our court systems throughout our state is truly immeasurable," said Stefan Wikstrom, TERIS Founder and CEO. "We want to help this great organization continue to provide priceless support to children and look forward to helping them raise as much money as possible."

The value of the services that CASAs provide for neglected and abused children in our court systems throughout our state is truly immeasurable
A CASA is a volunteer appointed by the court to advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children in dependency court. To do this, CASAs investigate case facts, recommend a course of action to the court, facilitate the resolution of problems, and monitor progress towards establishing permanency for the child.

CASA volunteers are people from all walks of life who step forward to make a difference in a child's life. Appointed by a Judge, they work as trained advocates for children who have entered the court system as victims of abuse or neglect on the part of their caregivers. In many instances, the CASA volunteer is the one consistent adult in the life of a child, who has already lost so much by the time he or she enters an over-burdened system. Children with CASA representation generally spend less time in the court system, less time in foster care, and have a better chance at a safe, stable home.

Seattle firm LexBlog is donating its professional blog design, development, hosting and consulting fees for Washington State CASA. The LexBlog legal network includes more than 600 law firm blogs and more than 1500 lawyer authors. "We believe strongly in the CASA cause and are happy to be able to support it through the use of our blogging platform and services," said Kevin O'Keefe, LexBlog Founder and CEO.

"We are very appreciative of the support provided by TERIS and LexBlog," said Washington State CASA Executive Director Kelly Stockman Reid. "Many existing supporters are excited to attend Casino Night and we're also thrilled for the opportunity to meet additional members of the legal community who can potentially help us further our mission to assist children in the court system."

ABOUT TERIS
Founded in 1996, TERIS (previously known as ALC Legal Technologies, Duplex Legal Discovery Solutions, and Digital Discovery Solutions), provides legal support and sophisticated eDiscovery solutions to law firms and corporate legal teams across the U.S. and internationally. TERIS' staff of over 275 was named one of the top 20 eDiscovery service providers by industry researcher Socha-Gelbmann in 2008. The company operates a free job board for the legal profession at www.discoverlegaljobs.com and has offices in Seattle, San Francisco, Silicon Valley, San Diego, Phoenix, and Austin. To learn more about TERIS, visit www.TERIS.com or follow the company on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/DiscoverTeris.

Media Contact: David Kaufer, Director of Marketing, 425-275-8814; 206-521-8717 or DKaufer (at) TERIS.com

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Reimbursement Issues with Medicare / Medicaid: A Free Article from Clifford Law Offices, Personal Injury Attorneys in Chicago

The Chicago law office, Clifford Law Offices, is posting legal articles on their website (http://www.cliffordlaw.com) in an effort to educate the public about legal matters such as personal injury. An introduction is provided, with a link to the full article.

Chicago, IL (PRWEB) May 28, 2009 -- A new law is slated to take effect July 1 that impacts claims involving Medicare, Medicaid and SCHIP Extension Act of 2007 (MMSEA). While Medicare has the right to reimbursement of money it paid for medical care rendered to injury victims since 1980, the MMSEA will require insurance companies to register on behalf of a Medicare claimant in an injury case. The aim is to insure that Medicare is compensated and parties that fail to repay will be subject to a $100 per day penalty.

Robert Clifford, nationally renowned personal injury attorney based out of Chicago, wrote about potential solutions to the anticipated issues arising from the new MMSEA requirements in a piece originally published in Chicago Lawyer entitled, 'Reimbursement Issues.' In the article, Clifford advocates for a course of action that is guided by protecting the client's due process that would otherwise be violated if an unusual length of time were to pass before settlement money was distributed to victims. Clifford goes on to describe a Medicare compliance process instituted by plaintiff's firms that would verify, negotiate, and resolve Medicare's reimbursement claims.

Clifford Law Offices offers these free articles to help educate people about subjects such as Reimbursement Issues for Medicare and Medicaid
Read the full Medicare / Medicaid Reimbursement Issues article here.

"Clifford Law Offices offers these free articles to help educate people about subjects such as Reimbursement Issues for Medicare and Medicaid," says Robert A. Clifford, Founder.

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Veteran Associate Defense Attorney Bob Bruschini Joins New York Personal Injury Law Firm Martin, Harding & Mazzotti

After 14 years as a defense attorney defending insurance companies, Bruschini makes the switch to personal injury law. Working for his new firm, Martin, Harding & Mazzotti, he successfully represented his first plaintiff in court recently.

Albany, NY (PRWEB) May 28, 2009 -- Bob Bruschini, a South Glens Falls, New York native, spent his professional career from 1994 to 2008 as an associate defense attorney working against firms such as Martin, Harding & Mazzotti in the courtroom. A year after making the switch to a personal injury attorney with Martin, Harding & Mazzotti, he recently represented his first plaintiff in court with a successful outcome at the trial.

One afternoon after a case, Martin, Harding & Mazzotti partner Victor Mazzotti made a serious phone call to Bruschini. "When Mr. Mazzotti calls, you listen," said Bruschini. Nervous as to what Mazzotti had to say, Bruschini sighed a breath of relief and accepted an offer to 'switch sides' and become a senior litigation attorney with Martin, Harding & Mazzotti.

When Mr. Mazzotti calls, you listen
Making the switch from defense to offense was quite the task. Before representing the injured, Bruschini was on the other side representing the insurance companies and those who were allegedly negligent and had caused harm to victims. Today, he is making sure his former client base provides the proper compensation to the injured parties. "I can say that my career on the side of defense has provided a unique and helpful prospective from which to complete my new mission," explained Bruschini.

With three children in elementary school, Bruschini is also an avid youth sports enthusiast, licensed and certified as a youth soccer and baseball coach, respectively. He has coached nine different youth soccer teams for both Moreau Recreation and the South Glens Falls Soccer Club and baseball teams ranging in age from t-ball to the majors, Little League that is.

"You usually don't see a lawyer making the time, or even having the time to volunteer for local youth sports," said Bruschini. "All of my coworkers have been very supportive of my commitment to help coach these kids."

Everyday, Bruschini arrives in the office early to ensure his daily workload is complete, giving him the opportunity to make his teams' games and practices. He even takes time in the evenings to answer any calls he may have missed from his clients while coaching.

Martin, Harding & Mazzotti is constantly working on ways to help their clients as well as the community. From providing free cab rides to prevent DWI, to putting on bike safety events to provide helmets to children, the firm's constant effort to give back matches Bruschini's agenda well.

"Since Bob joined us at Martin, Harding & Mazzotti, he has continued to provide our clients with the dedication and success they have grown to expect from us," said Victor Mazzotti. "With his positive attitude and truly dedicated outlook on helping the community, the firm's mission of providing a safer, more enjoyable environment in the community will continue to flourish."

About Martin, Harding & Mazzotti, LLP
Founded in 1994, Martin, Harding & Mazzotti is a personal injury law firm with offices in Upstate New York and new offices in Utica and Manchester, VT. The firm has attorneys licensed in New York, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Michigan, the District of Columbia and California. The firm sponsors and supports extensive community outreach programs promoting personal safety and will continue to do so in the future. Martin, Harding & Mazzotti is honored to have been voted "Best Law Firm" in the 2008 Times Union Readers' Poll. For more information, visit http://1800LAW1010.com.

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