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Historic opportunity to
"change the face of AIDS", says Bill Gates
Bill Gates has
called on all countries to keep up the fight against HIV/AIDS in a
keynote speech at the 18th International AIDS Conference, saying the
world has an historic opportunity to "change the face of AIDS". 26
July 2010 Deutsch
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Bristol-Myers Squibb
Foundation combats HIV and tuberculosis in African community
projects
The Bristol-Myers Squibb Foundation has announced
the community-based projects that it is currently supporting in
resource-poor regions across Africa to help combat the challenge of
HIV and tuberculosis co-infection. 26 July 2010
European pharma companies lead
in increasing access to medicines in developing countries
European pharmaceutical companies outcompete their US counterparts
in making medicines available to people in developing countries,
according to the Access to Medicine Index. 14 July 2010
ECRI Institute adds 4,000 new
terms to medical device nomenclature system
The 2010
Universal Medical Device Nomenclature System (UMDNS) now contains
24,544 terms covering the expanse of medical devices and equipment
used for modern healthcare delivery. 12 July 2010
Elephantiasis elimination
programme reaches 600m people in 2009
Lymphatic Filariasis
(LF), commonly known as Elephantiasis and one of the world's leading
causes of chronic illness, is on track to become one of the first
parasitic diseases transmitted by a mosquito to be eliminated. 15
June 2010
European IMIDIA project to
develop better tools to fight diabetes
The Innovative
Medicines Initiative for Diabetes (IMIDIA), a public–private
consortium funded by the Innovative Medicines Initiative (IMI), has
launched a project focusing on pancreatic islet cell function and
survival. 15 June 2010
Call for EU to ensure maximum benefits
are gained from nanomedicine
European nanomedicine experts
have called on the European Parliament to ensure the widespread
benefits offered by advances in nanomedicine are used to the best
advantage. 2 June 2010
Six US healthcare providers in
drive for environmental sustainability in hospitals
The
Healthier Hospitals Initiative is a co-ordinated approach to
achieve sustainability, prevent environment-related illness, create
extraordinary environmental benefits, and save billions of dollars
in healthcare expenses. 14 May 2010
Personal and agricultural
antibiotic use increasing resistant E. coli in Peruvian
children
Direct and indirect exposure of young children to
antibiotics through medical and agricultural usage can increase
their risk for carriage of antibiotic-resistant E. coli,
which has become a global health problem. 10 May 2010
Bacterial survival strategies
could teach bankers how to avoid financial crises
If we want
to drive maximum growth, encourage innovation and protect the
economy from disasters, we will have to learn from lowly bacteria
and put in place robust regulatory systems, says Dr Harvey
Rubin, a professor of medicine, biochemistry and computer
science, at the University of Pennsylvania, and Founder and Director
of the Institute for Strategic Threat Analysis and Response. 10 May
2010
Global economic downturn will
shrink life sciences sector and R&D spend
Curbing costs in
response to the global economic downturn, as well as the continuing
capital crunch, is likely to have a long-term impact on the life
sciences industries, according to a new white paper released by
Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu. 10 May 2010
Recycling medical equipment
could save hospitals millions
Wider adoption of the practice
of recycling medical equipment — including laparoscopic ports and
durable cutting tools typically tossed out after a single use —
could save hospitals hundreds of millions of dollars annually and
curb trash at medical centres.
First EU Joint Programming
initiative to tackle Alzheimer’s and Parkinson's disease
Leading
researchers from across Europe gathered in Stockholm last week to
develop a European-wide research strategy to tackle neurodegenerative
diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease. 20 April 2010
Wide variations in treatment for
breast cancer in Europe, USA and Japan
A global study of nearly
10,000 women with early breast cancer has found wide variations in how
they were treated, despite international consensus on best practice,
according to the May issue of the British Journal of Surgery. 15 April
2010
Northern Irish oncology hub
showcased in Washington DC
Almac opened a high-level Washington
DC event last month: From Science to Society: A Northern Ireland
Showcase in Cancer Genomics and Personalized Medicine, to highlighted
the capabilities and exceptional work of Northern Ireland’s established
oncology hub. 2 April 2010
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European countries adopt plan to fight environmental threats to
health
Through the Declaration and Commitment to Act 53 European
governments agreed to implement national programmes to provide equal
opportunities to each child by 2020 by ensuring access to safe water and
sanitation, opportunities for physical activity and a healthy diet,
improved air quality and an environment free of toxic chemicals. 1 April
2010
The best of UK medical technology
innovation honoured
Some of the UK's most pioneering technology
companies were recognised this month at the Medilink UK Awards 2010, an
annual event that celebrates cutting-edge technologies, outstanding
business achievements and international success across the UK’s medical
technology sector. 25 March 2010
Alliance Biosciences provides HIV
and TB biosafety guidance to Kenyan orphanage
Alliance
Biosciences has reached an agreement with the Nyumbani Children's Home
in Kenya to provide engineering and biosafety guidance to Nyumbani's
planned HIV/TB diagnostic facility. 9 March 2010
Hepatitis B and C serious public
health issue in US
A report by the US Institute of Medicine (IOM)
says that 3.5 to 5.3 million people have chronic hepatitis B or C virus
infections despite prevention efforts by federal, state and local
government agencies. 9 Mar 2010
World's focus on too few diseases
increasing child mortality and tuberculosis
Problems controlling
common diseases like HIV, heart disease and diabetes in poor countries
could be hindering efforts to meet the world’s key child health and
tuberculosis goals, a new study has warned. 9 Mar 2010
GE Healthcare expands portfolio of
ecomagination products
The portfolio now includes two new
healthcare products and three product categories, including the
Centricity Enterprise Electronic Medical Record (EMR) solution. 15 Feb
2010
Factory Reimbursement launches
tools for medical device reimbursement across Europe
Factory Reimbursement has launched a new low-cost research and reporting
service for medical device companies that wish to market and sell
products in Europe. 9 Feb 2010
Performance of EU healthcare
systems to be investigated by EuroHOPE project
The project will utilise microeconometric methods to measure the
performance, quality, use of resources and costs of healthcare in the
treatment of five key public health problems or diseases in seven
European countries.
Report urges review of hazards of
silver nanoparticles in consumer products
The UK Advisory Committee on Hazardous Substances has produced
Report on Nanosilver, recommending that government bodies fund a
thorough review of the hazards and exposure of silver nanoparticles as
an immediate priority. 9 Feb 2010
Free conferences on EU
nanotechnology governance framework — 11 Feb London
The FramingNano UK Event, to be held in London on 11 February,
provides a unique opportunity to explore the key issues of
nanotechnology governance and to discuss possible new governance models.
The Event will be of interest to all concerned with the responsible
development of this vitally important enabling technology. 8 Feb 2010
Siemens launches Green+ Hospitals
program
Siemens has introduced the Green+ Hospitals program to provide a
complete environmental solution, including ecological, social, and
economic factors. 5 Feb 2010
Most Europeans able to
differentiate generic from brand medicines
A survey of patients in seven European countries has found that 71% of
patients claim to know the difference between generic medicines and
brand medicines. 19 Jan 2010
Médecins Sans Frontières treats Haiti
earthquake victims amid damaged medical
facilities
MSF is managing to treat hundreds of earthquake victims despite
suffering severely damaged facilities and missing and injured staff. 14
Jan 2010
UN Foundation supporting Haiti
earthquake relief efforts
The United Nations Foundation is supporting relief teams from the World
Food Programme and the UN partner Télécoms Sans Frontières being
deployed in the devastated areas of Haiti following the earthquake on 12
Jan. 14 Jan 2010
FDA publishes guidance on developing diagnostic tests for 2009 H1N1
flu virus
During a pandemic manufacturers can submit a request to the FDA for an
Emergency Use Authorization to allow unapproved tests that meet certain
criteria to be used for diagnosis. 3 Nov 2009
 Investment
in global health is best way to save lives, say Bill and Melinda Gates
In a joint speech to US policymakers this week, Bill and Melinda Gates
called for a global push to halve child deaths worldwide by 2025. They
made the case that US initiatives to fight AIDS, malaria, and other
diseases in poor countries are America's best investment for saving
lives. 30 Oct 2009
GE Launches $250m Healthymagination
Fund for healthcare technology ventures
GE's new equity fund will make investments in highly promising
healthcare technology companies globally that have innovative
diagnostic, IT, and life sciences technologies. 27 Oct009
TÜV Product Service extends medical
device testing service in UK
The TÜV Active Medical Device Service includes safety testing for the
first time and is responding to a surge in demand from UK customers
preparing for the 2012 third Edition of the Medical Electrical Equipment
Standard. 27 Oct 2009
Emergent BioSolutions sponsors
discussion on biopreparedness in Europe
Emergent BioSolutions Inc. has sponsored the Security and Defence
Agenda’s roundtable discussion, Raising Biopreparedness Levels in
Europe, which examined European efforts in preparing and reacting
to various biological threats and the potential for European cooperation
in these areas. 20 Oct 2009
Norway's aging population creating
impossible demand for hospital beds
SINTEF has estimated that the
health service in 2030 will need to employ every second young person in
the country and increase hospital bed capacity by 5000, which cannot be
achieved in the timeframe. 20 Oct 2009
GE's Developing Health Globally programme commissions
three
hospitals in Cambodia
The Developing Health Globally corporate citizenship program is aimed at
improving access to quality healthcare by addressing critical gaps in
existing developing-world healthcare facilities. 20 Oct 2009
Wellcome Trust and Merck launch
joint venture to develop affordable vaccines for low-income countries
The Wellcome Trust and Merck have created the MSD Wellcome Trust
Hilleman Laboratories, a first of its kind research and development
joint venture with a not-for-profit mission to focus on developing
affordable vaccines to prevent diseases that commonly affect low-income
countries. 9 Oct 2009
Blindness in Nigeria set to rise
40% — mostly preventable
By 2020, 1.4 million Nigerians over age 40 will lose their sight, and
the vast majority of the causes are either preventable or treatable,
according to the Nigeria National Blindness and Visual Impairment Study
Group. 5 Oct 2009
Cancer awareness scheme launched at
English football clubs
A new scheme launched today at five English football clubs will help
educate men about the symptoms and risks of ‘male’ cancers — prostate,
lung and bowel cancer — and encourage them to go to their doctor earlier
when they show the symptoms. 26 Sept 2009
METRC calls for project proposals
in the "science of everyday things"
METRC the N8 Molecular Engineering Translational Research Centre based
at Sheffield University, has launched its Autumn 2009 Proof of Concept
Funding Call for industry–academic partnership projects. Up to £50,000
is available for each project. 23 Sept 2009
Large differences in cardiovascular mortality and national prevention
policies across EU
Research from a three-year programme to analyse cardiovascular health
and prevention policies in 16 European countries shows heart disease
remains the leading cause of death in Europe but there are huge
differences in both national prevention policies and levels
of cardiovascular mortality between countries. 21 Sept 2009
US FDA approves four vaccines for
2009 H1N1 influenza virus
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced that it has
approved four vaccines against the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus. The
vaccines will be distributed nationally after the initial lots become
available, which is expected within the next four weeks. 21 Sept
2009
World Alzheimer's Day: report shows
more than 35 million with dementia worldwide
Alzheimer's Disease International (ADI) has released a new report to
mark World Alzheimer's Day on 21 September 2009. It shows more than 35
million people will have dementia in 2010, a 10% increase over figures
reported in 2005, and a doubling nearly every 20 years. 21 September
2009
Does government do enough for SMEs?
The UK Chartered Institute of Marketing has launched its latest Agenda
Paper, Access all areas? which asks what kind of help does government
really offer SMEs. 19 Sept 2009
The Gambia launches national
vaccination campaign against child-killing disease
The Gambia has launched a national immunisation programme with the help
of the GAVI Alliance to eradicate pneumococcal disease, one of the
leading causes of child death worldwide. 1 September 2009
Francais
How to reduce the millions wasted
on purchases based on physicians' personal preferences
ECRI Institute has revealed some of the processes that hospital
administrators can implement to better manage the high cost of personal
preferences in a new white paper. 28 August 2009
Americans would embrace
comprehensive healthcare reform if properly informed
With polls pointing to a decline in public support for healthcare reform
in the US, new research shows that getting Americans more involved in
the debate is essential to swinging public opinion in its favour. 26
August 2009
1957-58 flu pandemic can provide clues to planning for current H1N1
outbreak
The Center for Biosecurity of the University of Pittsburgh Medical
Center (UPMC) has examined documents and
newspaper coverage related to the 1957-58 influenza pandemic to compare
the progress and severity of that outbreak and study the practical
actions taken that allowed the US to continue functioning with minimal
disruption. 17 August 2009
Dutch Center for Translational
Molecular Medicine completes €265 million funding
The funding, which was completed with the approval of a prostate cancer
research project, makes CTTM one of the largest public-private
partnerships in the world. 17 August 2009
World's population aging at
unprecedented rate
The average age of the world’s population is increasing at an
unprecedented rate. The number of people worldwide aged 65 and older is
estimated at 506 million as of mid 2008 and by 2040 it will reach 1.3
billion. 17 August 2009
UK parliamentary committee
criticises government for inadequate support for science and technology
The UK Government has reduced science to a political bargaining chip and
must raise its game to produce an ambitious science and engineering
strategy for the future, concludes an all-party committee of MPs in a
report published last month. 7 August 2009
Call for UN action to avert world's
fastest growing health threat: non-communicable diseases
The International Diabetes Federation (IDF), the International Union
Against Cancer (UICC) and the World Heart Federation (WHF) have called
on the UN’s Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) to take immediate
action to avert the fastest growing threat by non-communicable diseases
(NCDs) to global health. 16 July 2009
UK life sciences sector applauds government's
Life Sciences Blueprint
The associations say that it provides an excellent basis for firmly
securing the future of the life sciences sector and re-establishing the
UK’s global competitive position. 16 July 2009
UK government launches strategy to put innovative
technology into health
services
The Office for Life Sciences (OLS) Blueprint sets out to transform the
UK environment for life sciences companies and ensure faster patient
access to cutting-edge medicines and technologies. 16 July 2009
EU project to assess the
cardiovascular and gastrointestinal risks of NSAIDs
The SOS project aims to assess the risk of cardiovascular and
gastrointestinal events among NSAIDs users to guide the selection of
NSAIDs that have minimal harmful side effects. 15 July 2009
Better estimates of A(H1N1) flu
virus severity needed, say experts
Accurate estimates of the severity of the new H1N1 virus, and in
particular how many deaths might arise over the course of the pandemic,
are central to healthcare planning over the coming months, say experts
in a paper published on bmj.com today. 14 July 2009
European project to assemble a
virtual human body to aid medical research
The Virtual Physiological Human (VPH) is a pan-European project that
aims to create a methodological and technological framework to deliver
patient-specific computer models for the personalised and predictive
healthcare. 6 July 2009
Poorer countries with no access to
antivirals in pandemic could use generic drugs to prevent deaths
Almost 90% of the world’s population will not have timely access to
affordable supplies of vaccines and antiviral agents in the current
influenza pandemic, but it is possible that inexpensive generic drugs
that are readily available, even in developing countries, could save
millions of lives. 29 June 2009
UK tops list of 213 countries at
extreme risk to spread of swine flu
A Warwick Business School professor and one of the founders of global
risks specialist, Maplecroft, has released three new maps and indices
revealing the countries most at risk from an influenza pandemic. 29 June
2009
Cancer screening fear is fuelled by
lack of information
Fear plays a major role in whether women decide to go for cancer
screening or not, but healthcare providers underestimate how much women
need to know and wrongly assume that they will ask for information if
they want it. 29 June 2009
sanofi-aventis donates 100m doses of
A(H1N1) flu vaccine to WHO
Sanofi Pasteur, the vaccines
division of sanofi-aventis
Group, will reserve 10 percent of its output for the WHO as a donation
to help address the influenza pandemic in developing countries. 18 June
2009
Edible silica tags could help
prevent counterfeiting of medicines
Cellular Bioengineering is developing a novel technology that can help
prevent counterfeit medicine and other consumables. The tags are made of
the highest purity silica, rendering them biologically inert and edible.
17 June 2009
WHO calls for health sector to lead
fight against climate change
The health sector can play a leadership role in reducing the magnitude
and consequences of global warming by reducing its climate footprint,
says WHO and Health Care Without Harm in a discussion paper. 17 June
2009
Impaired vision costs billions in
lost productivity worldwide
Nearly 158 million people globally suffer with vision impairment
resulting from uncorrected refractive error, which can usually be
eliminated with a pair of eyeglasses and an eye examination. 15 June
2009
Over 60% of US bankruptcies due to
medical problems
A survey of bankruptcy filers in the US shows that illnesses and medical
bills contribute to a large and increasing share of bankruptcies. 15
June 2009
Leading NGOs call for international
action to combat global epidemic of non-communicable diseases
The International Diabetes Federation (IDF), International Union Against
Cancer (UICC) and World Heart Federation (WHF) have jointly called on
the international community to address urgently the epidemic of
non-communicable diseases (NCDs), responsible for 35 million deaths a
year. 10 June 2009
European experts launch think tank for chronic
fatigue syndrome
Ten leading scientists in Europe have formed a Think Tank for ME and
will hold their first meeting on the 13th of June. They want to initiate
an effective research effort to find the secret behind the mystery
disease that cripples an increasing number of lives. 10 June 2009
Cost of medical technology only small part of national health costs
and rising slowly
A study by AdvaMed of the costs of medical technology in the US has
found
that it rose only slightly as a percentage of national health
expenditure from 5.4% in 1989
to 6.2% in 2006, despite huge technological advances. 8 June 2009
European medical technology sector
weathering storm but expecting tougher times
A recent survey by Eucomed of medical technology manufacturers across
Europe has found that the recession was having a significant negative
impact on only 20% of the companies. 8 June 2009
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Diabetes care not improved by pay
incentives for primary care doctors
The care of patients with diabetes in the UK has improved over the last
decade, but this does not seem to be a direct result of the Quality and
Outcomes Framework — the scheme that rewards UK general practices for
delivering quality care. 5 June 2009
University of Hertfordshire to host
international symposium on the future of medical technology
The International MedTech Symposium hosted by the University’s Medical
Technology Innovation Centre (MTIC) will bring together opinion leaders
from industry, government, academia and finance to examine the future of
the MedTech industry. 3 June 2009
European online obesity survey
launched
With excess weight and obesity increasing across Europe at an alarming
rate, the online survey seeks to understand to what degree this is of
concern to European citizens and what steps we think should be taken to
address this pressing issue. 28 May 2009
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Reducing chronic diseases critical
to US economic recovery and healthcare reform
The second annual Almanac of Chronic Disease published by the US
Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease (PFCD) highlights the factors
making up the US$1.7 trillion cost to the US economy of treating chronic
diseases. 28 May 2009
Developed world neglects diarrheal
diseases that kill 1.6 million children
PATH and WaterAid America have released two new reports that show that
the international aid community and developing-country governments are
not responding to clear evidence on child mortality by targeting
resources where the disease burden is greatest. 27 May 2009
Institute for OneWorld Health in
collaboration to fight neglected diarrheal diseases
The US-based non-profit pharmaceutical company has successfully
completed its first screening campaign of the Roche proprietary compound
library and will select up to 40 new drug leads for further study
intended to identify a new treatment for childhood diarrhea. 28 May 2009
Generic pharmaceuticals saved US
healthcare $734 billion over last decade
The use of generic pharmaceuticals saved the American healthcare system
more than $734 billion from 1999-2008, with approximately $121 billion in
savings in 2008 alone, according to a report published by the Generic
Pharmaceutical Association. 19 May 2009
Early findings on development of
Mexican swine flu reported in new study
An international team including World Health Organisation and public
health agencies in Mexico, have found that the outbreak data so far is
very consistent with the early stages of a pandemic and the strain of
influenza is as lethal as the 1957 pandemic. 13 May 2009
Imperial College to build £99m health
science centre in London
A new centre will will form a key part of the Academic Health Science
Centre, which is a unique partnership between Imperial College London
and Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust that aims to bring new
therapies and treatments to patients much more quickly than ever before.
13 May 2009
Warning over 6-month time lag to
develop pandemic flu vaccine
Research from the University of Leicester and University Hospitals of
Leicester NHS Trust warns of a six-month time lag before effective
vaccines can be manufactured in the event of a pandemic flu outbreak. 11
May 2009
GE expands developing health globally
program to Cambodia
GE has announced that it is expanding its Developing Health Globally
program to include six sites in Cambodia and is donating ultrasound
equipment, mobile x-rays and patient monitors to Cambodia’s Ministry of
Health for distribution to 23 public health facilities. 11 May 2009
Hospital infection control will be
critical in preventing spread of swine flu
The severity and extent of the current swine flu outbreak (now
officially named influenza A(H1N1) by WHO) are unknown, but the SARS
outbreak (severe acute respiratory syndrome) in 2003 taught that
rigorous infection control in hospitals may be key to limiting deaths
from any disease outbreak. 1 May 2009
Preparing for pandemic flu — guides
for families, businesses, healthcare providers
Trust for America's Health (TFAH) has re-issued its series of It's
Not Flu As Usual guides on pandemic flu preparedness for families,
businesses, medical providers, and community groups. The guides are
applicable to all countries. 1 May 2009
Swine flu could be a disaster for weak
public health systems in developing countries
A potential spread of swine flu to developing countries without adequate
means to track the outbreak or to treat those infected could prove
disastrous, says humanitarian agency World Vision. 1 May 2009
European Association of Urology position statement on screening for
prostate cancer
Based on the results of the European Randomised Study for Screening
of Prostate Cancer (ERSPC), the EAU has formulated a position statement
regarding prostate cancer screening in Europe, and the subsequent
actions to be taken by health professionals and health authorities. 24
April 2009
Tide turns in fight to stop European
Commission restricting use of MRI scanners
Further pressure has been applied to the European Commission to amend
the Physical Agents (EMF) Directive which, if adopted into national
legislation, would drastically curtail the use of MRI scanners in
hospitals and research centres across Europe. 24 April 2009
Deutsch
Dutch Consortium builds registry for care
of rare diseases
The Dutch Orphan Disease Registry Consortium is building a disease registry
framework to collect information on rare diseases, encourage drug
development and optimize patient care. The consortium focuses on inborn
errors of metabolism as a target group of diseases. 22 April 2009
Yorkshire attracts major investment in
healthcare technologies
The Yorkshire and Humber region in northeast England has accounted for
nearly 10% of first-round investments in healthcare technology in the UK,
according to figures revealed at the launch of a new Access to Finance
programme for local healthcare technology companies. 2 March 2009
EU project to study impact of nanomedicine on healthcare
The EU-funded NANOMED project aims to look at all aspects of
nanomedicine and provide an objective answer to claims that this rapidly
evolving field will change the face of healthcare forever. 25 February
2009
Diabetes in UK increases 74% over six
years
The numbers of new cases of diabetes in the UK rose 74% between 1997 and
2003. The rate of increase is now higher than in the US. 24 February 2009
NHS medical device training goes online
A ground-breaking project is being launched in the UK to create a National
Health Service (NHS) e-learning platform for medical devices, including a
library of both generic and detailed training. 22 February 2009
Rotary members worldwide prepare for mass
polio-immunization campaigns
Hundreds of Rotary club members from the United States, Canada, Australia,
Denmark, Italy, Korea, the UK and the Caribbean will join thousands of their
fellow Rotary members , other volunteers and health workers over the next
few months to immunize children against polio in India and Nigeria. 16
February 2009
Public health approach needed to win the
war on cancer
Smoke-free laws and other proven methods are an essential component of the
public health approach to preventing cancer, according to an article
published in The Oncologist. 31 January 2009
Canada to enforce world's first mandatory
reporting on engineered nanomaterials
The Canadian government reportedly is planning to release in February the
world's first national regulation requiring companies to detail their use of
engineered nanomaterials, according to environmental officials. 31 January
2009
Boston Scientific and Medtronic reach
agreement over patent disputes
Boston Scientific Corporation and Medtronic, Inc.have announced the
settlement of two lawsuits and an agreement to stand down in three others.
31 January 2009
US$630 million drive to eradicate polio by
Gates foundation, Rotary, UK and Germany
Rotary International, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and the UK and
German governments have committed more than US$630 million in new funds to
fight polio, a crippling and sometimes fatal disease that still paralyzes
children in parts of Africa and Asia and threatens children everywhere. 31
January 2009
 Malaria
diagnostic test on a card gives hope for developing countries
Researchers at the University of Washington have developed a prototype
malaria test printed on a disposable Mylar card the size of a credit card.
The key to the test is not only miniaturised lab-on-a-chip technology, but
also the use of sugar to keep the dried reagent viable for months without
refrigeration. 26 January 2009
UK healthcare technology companies
urged to tap into growing Middle East markets
UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) and the Association of British Healthcare
Industries (ABHI) are urging UK healthcare technology businesses to
capitalise on demand in the fast growing Middle East market. 23 January 2009
Call for nanoscale food-additives to
undergo new testing for safety
Nanotechnology policy experts in the US are urging that food additives that
contain nanoscale materials be subject to new safety testing to ensure that
their use does not pose unintended risks. 12 January 2009
Alfred P Sloan Foundation funds studies
on societal issues of synthetic biology
The Alfred P Sloan Foundation has launched a new initiative to study the
societal issues associated with synthetic biology — a rapidly developing
scientific field where researchers are constructing novel organisms from the
building blocks of DNA. 12 January 2009
World hunger crisis spiralling out of
control
The United Nations World Food Program (WFP) has urged countries to step up
and urgently allocate funds for the world's poor. Warehouses will run out of
food by March — for school children alone it needs to feed 59 million
children. 9 January 2009
Hospitals pump $18bn into New Jersey
economy
Hospitals in New Jersey hospitals are a key economic engine for the US
state, providing more than 113,000 full-time jobs, $7 billion in employee
salaries and more than $18 billion in total spending, according to the New
Jersey Hospitals 2008 Economic Impact Report. 9 January 2009
UK NanoKTN supports EC's €1.8bn investment in ICT research
The UK Nanotechnology Knowledge Transfer Network (NanoKTN) has announced its support for the €1.8bn that has been made available
for research projects by
the European Commission, through their Information Communications
Technology (ICT) fund. 9 January 2009
Cheap reliable diagnosis for
tuberculosis urgently needed
TB kills 2 million a year in developing countries and the threat of TB
outbreaks even in Europe and North America costs these countries hundreds of
millions of Euros to control every year. Yet the immediate, solvable
challenge in TB is simply to diagnose the disease quickly and simply with
robust, fully-tested kits. 8 January 2008
Economic stress and healthcare costs
causing ill health in US
A survey by AARP, the US membership organisation for the over 50s, has found
that the economic recession is affecting people's health and that
difficulties in paying for healthcare are adding to the problem. 6 January
2009
EU legislation
threatens use of MRI scanners
Urgent action and public pressure is still required to stop the
European Union adopting legislation which will restrict the use of magnetic
resonance imaging (MRI) scanners throughout Europe, according to the UK's
Institute of Physics. 22 December 2008
German hospital finance reform improves
access to medical technologies
The German parliament has paved the way for the use of more innovative
medical technologies with the passing of the Hospital Financing Reform Act.
19 December 2008
Canadian Supreme Court upholds selection
patents
The Canadian Supreme Court’s unanimous decision to uphold selection patents
earlier this month helps keep the biotechnology sector competitive as it
seeks international investment during these difficult economic times, says
BIOTECanada, an intervener in the case. 20 November 2008
UK Royal Commission calls for more safety
measures for nanotechnology materials
A new report by the UK's Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution (RCEP)
says that there is an urgent need for more testing, extending existing
governance arrangements and creating new arrangements to control the
development of nanomaterials. 12 November 2008
Healthy bones program reduces hip
fractures by 37%
Proactive measures can reduce hip fracture rates by an average of 37.2% —
and as much as 50% — among those at risk, according to a study conducted by
Kaiser Permanente Southern California. 10 November 2008
People with chronic diseases are often
unaware of their health status
A screening of 65,000 people across the US showed that many people, despite
knowing that they have a chronic disease, such as diabetes or asthma, may
not understand the extent or seriousness of their health problems. 5
November 2008
Médecins Sans Frontières prevented from
treating refugees in Italy
Médecins Sans Frontières medical teams have been forced to stop providing
medical care to refugees at the harbour of the Italian island of Lampedusa
after the Italian Interior Ministry refused to sign a new Memorandum of
Understanding. 1 Nov 2008
Gates Foundation invests in 104
unconventional approaches to solving global health problems
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has awarded 104 grants to explore bold
and largely unproven ways to improve global health. The grants of US$100,000
each, announced in Bangkok this week, will be made to scientists from 22
countries and five continents. They mark the first round of funding from
Grand Challenges Explorations, an initiative to help lower the barriers for
testing innovative ideas in global health. 24 October 2008
International effort to study role of body microbes in human health
and disease
Scientists from around the globe have formed the International Human Microbiome Consortium (IHMC),
which will co-ordinate research to characterize the relationship of the
human microbiome in the maintenance of health and in disease. 23 October
2008
 Pandemic
flu models help determine food distribution and school closing strategies
The 1918 flu pandemic killed more than 40 million people worldwide and
affected persons of all age groups. While it is difficult to predict when
the next influenza pandemic will occur or how severe it will be, researchers
at the Georgia Institute of Technology have developed models to help
organisations such as emergency services and education authorities prepare
emergency response plans. 16 October 2008
A third of diseases in developing
countries are potentially treatable by surgery
Researchers from Columbia and Cornell Universities (NY) have been studying
whether patients in poor countries suffering from certain medical conditions
could benefit from surgical treatment. The results of the study could
potentially lead to the implementation of surgical infrastructure in
countries where none currently exists. 16 October 2008
 International
Diabetes Federation launches diabetes awareness campaign
The International Diabetes Federation is calling on groups and individuals
worldwide to get involved in activities to raise awareness of diabetes
leading up to World Diabetes Day on November 14. The theme for this year’s
campaign is “Diabetes in Children and Adolescents.” 29 September 2008
UK technology board invests £15m in
medical device and telecare R&D
The UK Technology Strategy Board has awarded grants of £5 million for nine
projects to research and develop telecare products and a further £10 million
for 22 projects developing new medical devices. The projects will bring
together the best UK expertise from industry, the health and care
professions and universities. 23 September 2008
War against malaria in the tropics failed partly due to poor advice
The war against malaria in tropical countries was fought and lost in
the 20th Century on the basis of faulty intelligence, a ‘dodgy dossier’
which argued that the same methods used to tackle the disease in
temperate countries would also work in the tropics. 18 September 2008
UK medical technology industry body
announces new chief executive
The Executive of the Association of British Healthcare Industries (ABHI) has
announced the appointment of Peter Ellingworth as its new Chief Executive.
He replaces John Wilkinson, who left to take over as Director General of
EUCOMED earlier this year. 11 September
Call to make sudden cardiac arrest a
national health priority in USA
The US National Medical Association (NMA) has called for changes in the
prevention and treatment paradigm for sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). It has
released a white paper that outlines directives for elevating SCA to a
national health priority and bringing it to the forefront of the policy
discussion. 13 August 2008
Sony supports Operation Smile
Sony Electronics is helping the worldwide children's medical charity
Operation Smile as part of a promotion for a new camera range. 13 August
2008
American diabetics fight for right to
continuous blood glucose monitors
A group of American diabetics has launched a campaign to get insurance
companies to allow claims for continuous glucose monitoring systems. 3
August 2008
Scottish study shows smoking ban reduces
hospital admissions for heart attacks
NHS Health Scotland, the national health improvement agency, has found a 17%
fall in admissions for heart attacks just one year after a national smoking
ban came into force. 31 July 2008
Benefits of minimally invasive technology
debated at UK parliamentary meeting
A cross section of members of parliament, clinicians and patient groups came
together in London last week to debate the benefits of minimally invasive
technology (MIT) at a parliamentary reception. 22 July 2008
Global action against neglected tropical diseases
The WHO Strategic and Technical Advisory Group on Neglected Tropical
Diseases (STAG-NTD) has released a report of its recommendations to the
World Health Organization (WHO) on action to take over neglected tropical
diseases resulting from its meeting in April. 16 July 2008
IHA to assess value of medical devices and
improve use
The Integrated Healthcare Association (IHA) of California has been awarded a
$1.3m grant to implement statewide collection of comparative data, evaluate
purchasing and payment systems, and develop a new episode-based payment
method for medical device purchasing. 6 June 2008
Lung cancer in Europe not prioritised
despite poor survival rates
The fragmented organisation and management of lung cancer diagnosis and care
in many European countries are exacerbating already poor survival rates
amongst patients with the disease, according to a report from a group of
leading Swedish researchers. 6 June 2008
International Diabetes Federation to set
up global framework for diabetes education
The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) will begin designating centres
of education globally to improve clinical outcomes, care and knowledge of
healthcare providers and people with diabetes. IDF is calling for
applications from institutions and member organisations that have a
recognised reputation in health professional education. 6 June 2008
UK
Health Protection Agency to study health effects of MRI scanners
The UK Health Protection Agency has announced its intention to study the
potential harmful effects on patients and medical staff of the high magnetic
fields generated by magnetic resonance imaging machines.22 May
2008
Call for European action to combat heart
disease
A Call for Action encouraging European countries to develop national
strategies to combat 4.3 million deaths and economic loss of
€192 billion annually from heart disease
has been issued by the Joint European Societies on Cardiovascular Disease
Prevention. 29 April 2008
Workshops on FDA medical device
inspections outside US
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is holding two
workshops in Europe to help medical device companies prepare for an FDA
inspection. 11 April 2008
Clinical trials have major deficiencies in
design and funding
There are major shortcomings in the way clinical trials are designed,
carried out and funded in the US. These include the exclusion or
under-representation of women, older people and minorities and insufficient
training in disparities for members of institutional review boards. 7 April
2008
Dutch molecular medicine institute
allocates €150m for disease research
The Center for Translational Molecular Medicine (CTMM) in Eindhoven has
awarded €150 million of funding for nine
research projects directed at the most prevalent diseases in the
cardiovascular area, cancer and neurodegeneration.
Better primary care for elderly could
reduce hospitalisation by 50%
An efficient response from primary care would reduce hospitalisation of
people over 60 by more than 50%, for cases caused by the most common
illnesses in the older population, according to a study by researchers at
the University of Granada. 31 March 2008
Global pledge to avert 388 million deaths
from chronic diseases
A group of leading international health experts and activists, the Oxford
Health Alliance, has launched a call to action to confront the global
explosion of chronic diseases which will claim 388 million lives in the next
decade. 10 March 2008
US representatives call for more funding
for prostate cancer research
Prostate cancer has become more common than breast cancer, yet advanced
diagnostic imaging technologies comparable to mammograms remain unavailable.
Over 20 US representatives have urged the US Department of Health and Human
Services and National Institutes of Health to urgently fund research into
the disease. 18 February 2008
European Commission sponsors study on
regulating nanotechnology in the EU and US
The EC has awarded US$587,000 to a group of US and UK institutes, headed by
the London School of Economics and Political Science, to compare
nanotechnology regulation in the EU and US and assist a unified approach to
regulation. 18 February 2008
US offers industry voluntary submission of
nanotechnology hazards
Industry, non-governmental organizations and other groups in the US can
voluntarily submit safety data on engineered nanoscale materials under the
US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) plan for the Nanoscale Materials
Stewardship Program under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). 1
February
UK strategy to improve cancer services
The UK government has published a five-year cancer strategy focussing on
prevention and improving services. The report identifies the need to tackle
the serious shortage of radiotherapy capacity and radiographers, delays in
uptake of new cancer drugs and the need to encourage the spread of improved
surgical techniques. 15 January 2007
Harvard's top 10 health stories of 2007
Drug safety, genome science and sleep are among the top ten health issues of
2007 chosen by the editors of Harvard Medical School's Harvard Health
Letter. 17 December
Public safety at risk from FDA's lack of
resources to keep up with scientific advances
A new report on the state of the US Food and Drug Agency (FDA) says that the
safety of the nation is at risk from the inability of the Agency to keep up
with advances across a wide range of scientific fields. 17 December
World Bank report says TB control would
lead to massive economic gain for poor countries
A World Bank study has found that 22 countries with the world’s highest
numbers of TB cases could earn significantly more than they spend on TB
diagnosis and treatment if they implemented a global plan to sharply reduce
the numbers of TB-related deaths. Highly affected African countries could
gain up to 9 times their investments in TB control. 12 December
Ineffective action in controlling TB
causing 1.6 million deaths each year
TB is treatable, but inadequate action by governments worldwide is leading
to escalating cases of drug-resistance, of which only 2% are treated. TB is
an avoidable human tragedy of 9 million infected people and 1.6 million
deaths each year. 12 December
Berlin future fund grants €16m to medical
engineering projects
The Technologiestiftung Berlin (TSB) has granted €2.2m to develop a new
marker for use in diagnosing strokes. It is the eighth medical engineering
project supported by the Fund and brings the total granted in this area to
€16m. 6 December
 Diabetes
communities unite to celebrate World Diabetes Day November 14
Diabetes currently affects 246 million people globally. For all of them and
the many millions more at risk, November 14, 2007 is a highly significant
date as it marks the first United Nations-observed World Diabetes Day. 13
November Reducing the environmental
impact of medical technology at Siemens
Siemens Medical Solutions systematically improves the impact of its products
and systems on people and the environment. As a result, new computed
tomography systems consume 30% less energy, contain 80% less lead and
generate up to 58% less radiation than previous systems. 22 October
World ill-prepared to cope with
catastrophic impact of flu pandemic
The impact of a flu pandemic is likely to exceed what most corporate and
governmental leaders have imagined, or are prepared for, according to a new
report. A long-lasting pandemic is not only likely to happen, but overdue. 9
October
Up to 98% of hepatitis C in Europe goes
undiagnosed
A report released today by the Eurasian Harm Reduction Network (EHRN)
highlights the significant inconsistencies that exist in hepatitis C (HCV)
diagnosis and treatment across Europe and beyond. In recognition of World
Hepatitis Awareness Day, patient groups around the globe are united in their
call for action. 1 October 2007
European Directive on radiation exposure
will ban MRI scans
European Directive aimed at minimising exposure to radiation will prevent
the use of MRI scanners, according to Professor Dag Rune Olsen of the the
Norwegian Radiation Hospital, Oslo. 27 September
1.5 million unnecessary child deaths from
diarrhoea
Diarrhoea is still one of the most common reasons for the high child
mortality rates in many low and middle-income countries despite two decades
of global efforts to control it. One fifth of all the deaths amongst
children under the age of five that are reported every year are caused by
serious diarrhoea. 17 September
US FDA lacks resources to regulate
nanotechnology
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has released a report recommending
action to address the benefits and risks of nanotechnology. But according to
the Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies the agency has been under-resourced
for decades and there is a lack of risk-research data on nanotechnology for
the agency to be able to carry out the recommendations. 21 August 2007
US environment agency criticised for lack
of action on health risks of nanomaterials
The US Environmental Protection Agency's voluntary Nanoscale Materials
Stewardship Program has been labelled "too little, too late" by
Environmental Defense. 14 August 2007
Rapid action in the community can prevent
deaths during pandemic
A study of the 1918-1919 influenza pandemic has shown that early
intervention to isolate infected people slowed down the spread of the
disease and saved lives, according to a new study based on public records
from the time. 9 August
WHO launches US$2.15 billion plan to
contain extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Stop TB Partnership have called
for urgent investment worldwide to boost the ability to contain the threat
of extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDRTB). They have launched
an action plan to help prevent hundreds of thousands of cases of the disease
and save up to 134 000 lives. 3 July 2007
UK businesses unprepared for severe
disruption from flu pandemic
Most companies in the UK have inadequate plans to protect their businesses
in the event of loss of staff during a flu pandemic even though most
recognise they will suffer significant financial loss, according to a recent
survey. 18 June 2007
GE Healthcare donates used medical
equipment to International Aid for use in developing countries
GE Healthcare has formed a partnership with International Aid to supply a
range of used medical equipment and training of staff. International
Aid will refurbish and distribute the products overseas and will also
provide education and product support. 14 June
Growing Alzheimer’s epidemic could cripple
healthcare
The rapidly increasing number of people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease
could cripple healthcare services in the next few decades. In 2006, 26.6m
people were suffering from Alzheimer’s disease worldwide and could rise to
100m by 2050. 11 June 2007
Call for mass screening in Europe to
prevent 200,000 deaths from colon cancer
Leading European scientists, physicians and politicians have called for
national action plans across Europe to screen for colon cancer and prevent
the 200,000 unnecessary deaths each year. Virtually all colon and rectal
cancers can be either prevented or cured, yet little effective action has
been taken since screening was recommended in 2003. 19 May 2007
Español
Francais
The effects of climate change on health in
the UK
The UK Department of Health and Health Protection Agency have published an
updated report on the
Health Effects of Climate Change in the UK. The Department is asking
for comments up to mid June, before final publication. 13 May 2007
Report on developing radiotherapy services
in England
The report says there is still a need to increase services to meet current
and future demand, there should be greater choice and there is a need for
more community-based services. 17 May 2007
Call for international action on biggest
epidemic in human history — diabetes
The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) is calling for urgent action to
counter the diabetes pandemic, which is threatening to overwhelm global
healthcare services. There are 246 million people with diabetes now and 4
million die from it every year. It is likely to bankrupt national economies.
4 May 2007 Español
Francais
Deutsch
Groundbreaking study shows hospital
investment in IT does reduce costs
A two-year long study by PricewaterhouseCoopers and the Wharton School of
Business of the use of information technology in US hospitals provides the
strongest evidence that the investment does pay for itself, but it has to be
comprehensive and given enough time to work. 3 April 2007
Lack of transparency in healthcare raises
costs and prevents innovation
A new study from the US National Center for Policy Analysis (NCPA) has found
that the lack of real competition for patients has a profound effect on the
cost and quality of healthcare. It also found legal, regulatory and cultural
barriers barriers to competition, innovation and transparency. 28 March 2007
Sweden donates US$42m to GAVI Alliance for
child immunisation in poorest countries
The SEK 300 million (US $42 million) donation from the Swedish International
Development Agency (SIDA) reflects the country's long-term commitment to
global health and poverty eradication goals. 14 February 2007
Deutsch
Español
Francais
Healthcare products should be chosen for
quality not price, say German hospital directors
German medical technology companies and sickness funds agreed that competing
on product quality is better than a price-based economy in the BVMed's
January conference on German health reforms. 7 Feb 2007
Call for masterplan for German health
economy
A cross-party "Masterplan for the health economy" is needed in Germany, with
innovative medical technologies playing a key role, according to BVMed. 7
Feb 2007
Global public health network funded by $20
Million Gates Foundation grant
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has awarded a five-year grant of nearly
$20 million to Emory University and Finland's National Public Health
Institute, KTL (Kansanterveyslaitos) to support the International
Association of National Public Health Institutes
(IANPHI). 18 Jan 2006
Adoption of new technology needs to be
evidence-based to reduce health care costs
Advances in medical technology are a main factor driving the trend of
increasing health care costs. Including evidence-based decision-making in
the healthcare coverage process would ensure that use of new therapy and
technology is tied to evidence of clinical benefit. 11 Jan 2006
Nanotechnology safety in workplace
neglected
Little is known about the potential risks of nanotechnology even though
there are more than 400 products on the market. A strategic plan and more
resources for risk research are needed now in order to ensure safe nano-workplaces.
9 Jan 2007
Indian in vitro diagnostics market
surpasses $250 Million in 2006
A new study from Kalorama Information, Clinical Diagnostics in India,
estimates in vitro diagnostics (IVD) revenues topped $250 million in 2006
and will show double-digit growth rates over the next three years. 4 Jan
2007
Financing sustainable healthcare in
Europe: how to get value for money
Leading healthcare, policy and finance experts have developed a range of
recommendations to improve healthcare quality and financing in Europe. 18
December 2006 Español
Francais
Deutsch
Point-of-care diagnostics market to
surpass $16bn worldwide by 2010.
The demand for reduced costs and decentralized diagnostic testing in the US
is driving the market, according to research from Kalorama Information. 18
December 2006
Medtech companies need risk intelligence
to survive and thrive
Medtech companies face demands from many quarters, including business,
government, legal and medical. To manage all these needs, companies need
risk intelligence, according to a new white paper from Deloitte & Touche LLP.
18 December 2006
Pre-hospital care in Lund, Sweden doubles
survival rates for sudden cardiac arrest. 8 Dec 2006
Francais
Deutsch
Español
Top US health industry trends of 2007
Pressure on pricing amid demand for transparency will force pharmaceutical
companies, hospitals and health plans to rethink their strategies. This is
one of the top issues identified by PricewaterhouseCoopers' Health Research
Institute in a new report. 8 Dec 2006
Advance Nanotech joins EC's FLUTEST avian
flu project
Advance Nanotech joins a consortium of elite government labs in Europe,
South Africa, and the USA to develop, evaluate and validate diagnostic tools
to aid in the early detection of avian influenza. 7 Dec 2006
Falls become leading cause of injury
deaths for over-65s
Fall-related death rates for men and women 65 years and older increased
significantly from 1993 to 2003 in the USA, according to a report from CDC.
In 2000, the direct medical costs for falls among older adults were
approximately $19 billion.
World Diabetes Day — 14 November
In almost every country of the world, diabetes is on the rise. The current
number of people with diabetes stands at over 230 million. The disease is a
leading cause of blindness, kidney failure, amputation, heart attack and
stroke. It is one of the most significant causes of death, responsible for a
similar number of deaths each year as HIV/AIDS. 14 Nov 2006
Español
Deutsch
Francais
UK to move minor operations and tests out
of hospitals into GP practices
As part of a major UK policy change designed to cut hospital stays and
reduce costs in the NHS, the UK will conduct a nationwide wave of
demonstration projects that could pave the way for the NHS to carry out
millions more operations and tests at the doctor's surgery instead of in
hospitals. 31 October 2006
FDA will be overstretched by need to
monitor medical nanotechnology
Developments in medical nanotechnology are advancing at such a rate that the
US regulatory body, the Food and Drug Administration is unlikely to be able
to cope with the requirements to monitor them, according to a new report. 12
Oct 2006
Pro-active approach to introducing medical
innovations needed — BVMed innovation forum. 15 Sept 2006
 The
ethics and politics of nanotechnology
UNESCO has published a report that assesses the ethical, legal and political
aspects of nanotechnology. It outlines what the science of nanotechnology
is, and presents some of the issues facing the international community in
the near future. 8 August 2006
Global harmonization of regulations for
medical devices
The 10th annual Global Harmonization Task Force1 (GHTF) Conference was held
last month in Germany to discuss "Design for Patient Safety in a Global
Regulatory Model". 27 July 2006
Deutsch
First electronic record products certified
for use in USA
The first round of ambulatory electronic healthcare record products (EHRs)
have been certified by the US Certification Commission for Healthcare
Information Technology (CCHIT). This removes a significant barrier to
widespread adoption of electronic health records in the USA. 25 July 2006
Disparity in efficiency of healthcare
financing in western countries
A new research paper from Siemens Financial Services, entitled Healthcare
Affordability — The Global Challenge highlights the need for efficient
use of capital in Western world healthcare systems. 13 July 2006
Media relations increasingly important to
medical device companies
An online survey of 90 companies carried out by BVMed found that the sector
needs to make better use of the media and manage their communications more
effectively. 8 June 2006
Successful medical device companies use
CRM and KM
A new strategy review from HBS Consulting concludes that poor information
and cumbersome processes can seriously hamper the sales and service
operations of medical device companies. Success is achieved by effective use
of customer relationship and knowledge management systems. 7 June 2006
Tom Cruise Ultrasound Bill should ban
keep-sake scans, says ACR
The American College of Radiology (ACR) has applauded the California
Assembly for passing the "Tom Cruise law," which would prohibit the sale of
diagnostic ultrasound equipment to anyone but appropriately licensed health
care providers. It also urges the California Senate to include the
prohibition of sale to foetal keepsake studios. 25 May 2006
Millions squandered in unnecessary medical
tests
A study of preventive health screening measures such as ECGs, X-rays and
laboratory tests has shown that unnecessary tests are costing the U.S.
health care system millions — and potentially billions— of dollars per year.
25 May 2006
Legal simplification for medical devices
in Germany and the EU
The German parliament will amend the restrictive Medical Devices Act and the
simplification strategy of the EU Commissioner aims to cut legal red tape
for medical devices. 18 May 2006
Uptake of doctors’ ideas is an important
factor for success in medical technology.
The importance of proper use of doctors’ ideas for new medical technologies
and procedures was made clear at the BVMed special conference in Munich. 18
May 2006
German law hinders use of medical devices
German medical device manufacturers and healthcare providers have demanded a
clarification of the legal conditions for the adoption of medical technical
aids into the medical technical aids register. 11 May 2006
Industry and government leaders to analyse
EU medical device regulations
Top-level European government and industry leaders will meet to dissect
European policy on health product innovation at a regulatory affairs
conference in Portugal in June. 6 May 2006
Improvements in patient-safety depend on
culture change
A new study of six innovative patient-safety programs found that building a
safety culture into healthcare organisations required both revamped clinical
practices and “social engineering" to bring about cultural change. 20 April
2006
New Georgia Tech research institute in
Ireland to focus on medical devices and RFID
The Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) will establish its first research
enterprise outside the USA in Athlone, Ireland to focus on research and
development needs of industry. It plans to build up a portfolio of research
programs and collaborations with industry valued in excess of $24 million.
26 March 2006
Anton J. Schmidt re-elected chairman of
BVMed board
Anton J. Schmidt, executive chairman of Ethicon GmbH, was re-elected as
BVMed chairman of the board at the German Medical Technology Association’s
annual general meeting in Berlin. He has headed the association since March
2004. 24 March 2006
EU should invest more in medical
technology to benefit economies
EU Member States should invest more in innovative medical technology and
diagnostics, as this will increase efficiency in healthcare and reduce the
burden on society of disease and disability, according to Eucomed and EDMA.
24 March 2006
First HIV/AIDS medical centre for children
opened in Swaziland
Operated by Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, in partnership with the
government, it is funded by Bristol-Myers Squibb's Secure the Future
philanthropic initiative. It is the third such centre built under the
initiative. 3 March 2006
Swedish association of medical device
suppliers changes name to Swedish Medtech. 2 March 2006
Setting targets improves NHS performance
in England but can cause problems
The star rating system for English NHS trusts seems to have improved
performance, but systems need to be put in place to minimise gaming and
ensure targets are not causing problems elsewhere, according to an article
in the British Medical Journal (BMJ). 24 February 2006
Circulatory support system gains German
approval for reimbursement
The governmental authority for healthcare charge reimbursement in Germany
(InEK) has granted the highest approval level available for Abiomed's
Impella Recover devices. 7 February 2006
German government initiatives to boost use
of IT in healthcare
Expenditure on healthcare IT in Germany represents a paltry 0.5% of total
healthcare outlays — an extremely low proportion compared to other developed
countries. However, the pursuit of a more integrated healthcare IT policy,
government initiatives and new reimbursement structures are set to boost
demand for healthcare IT in Germany. 5 February 2006
Technology adoption easier for German
hospitals
The processes for the introduction of medical technology innovations in the
German hospital flat-rate reimbursement (DRG) system have been significantly
improved and accelerated. 1 February 2006
European doctors embracing Internet
technology and mobile devices
A survey of European doctors has found over 80% use the Internet and
electronic records, and two thirds use handheld mobile devices. 30 January
2006
New website for global health data
GlobalHealthFacts.org is a new and freely accessible website with the latest
country and region-specific data on high-profile diseases such as HIV/AIDS,
tuberculosis, malaria and other key health indicators. 17 January 2006
Une nouvelle ressource accessible
sur le Net facilite l'accès aux données mondiales de santé. 17 janvier
2006
Health technology assessment in Europe
The World Health Organization has produced a policy brief on: Health
technology assessment: an introduction to objectives, role of evidence, and
structure in Europe. 15 January 2006
European e-health initiatives boost
virtual private networks
The European healthcare segment offers exciting growth potential for
information and communication technologies (ICT) service providers and
equipment vendors. Uptake will particularly impact areas such as patient
data, security, telemedicine technologies and hospital administration. 15
January 2006
Document: Medical Technology in Germany — Opportunities and Risks through
Technological Innovation Repercussions of and for the National Health
System, as well as Potential Growth Markets Abroad.
Research project on behalf of the Ministry of Economics and Labour. Berlin,
August 2005. Download
Summary (191K PDF) in English.
German Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology publication page.
Rise in number of older people living
independently in UK
More older people are getting the help they need to live independently,
according to a report published by the UK Health and Social Care Information
Centre. 8 January 2006
Broadband for elderly and disabled could
generate billions for economy and cut care costs
A report by the US New Millennium Research Council shows that accelerated
broadband deployment to older Americans and people with disabilities could
deliver hundreds of billions of dollars to the economy in potential health
care savings and other major benefits. 21 December 2005
Europe needs major investment in medical
applications of nanotechnology
The European Science Foundation (ESF) has called for a clear strategy and
investment plan to ensure Europe does not miss out on the benefits of
nanomedicine. 18 December 2005
More resources needed to study dangers of
nanotechnology
A new inventory of research into the environmental, health, and safety
aspects of nanotechnology shows the need for more resources, for a coherent
risk-related research strategy, and for more collaboration. 18 December 2005
Patient-centric strategy crucial for EU
Healthcare
Health First Europe (HFE) outlined a series of recommendations to contribute
to a debate on the challenges and the future of healthcare in the EU at the
annual Open Health Forum held by the European Commission. 15 November 2005
Health systems worldwide unsustainable,
says PwC
Faced with rapidly rising costs, diminished resources and growing demands,
health systems around the world are under siege and many will be
unsustainable within 15 years unless fundamental change occurs, according to
a survey of 700 health leaders by PricewaterhouseCoopers. 15 November 2005
Medical technology has vital role in
preventing flu pandemic
A wide range of medical technology products, ranging from masks to pulse
oximeters, will play a vital role in dealing with any flu pandemic,
according to industry association AdvaMed. 11 November 2005
Strong patient support for new medical
technologies in doctor's surgery
A survey by Wall Street Journal Online/Harris Interactive Health-Care Poll
shows that the vast majority of US adults are in favour of new technologies
in doctors' practices and many believe they will reduce the costs or improve
the quality of medical care. 3 November 2005
US may lose lead in biomedical robots
he United States' lead in research on robots for use in biology and medicine
could change in the next few years, according to a report on robotics
research and development in the United States, Japan, Korea and Western
Europe. 11 October 2005
eHealth requires harmonisation across
Europe
Insurmountable hurdles to harmonisation of healthcare in Europe are being
created as a result of incompatible electronic systems being introduced in
EU member countries. 8 October 2005
Health illiteracy costs Europe millions
Improving health literacy is the key to improving overall health and to
reducing healthcare budgets in Europe, according to a panel of experts
meeting at the European Health Forum Gastein, Austria. 8 October 2005
EC consultation on restrictions of
hazardous substances in electrical equipment
The EC is inviting interested parties to submit comments on the new
legislation controlling use of toxic substances in electrical equipment,
which is due to come into force next year. 12 September 2005
UK government hinders uptake of vital
medical technologies
Only a few months after a UK parliamentary report highlighted the need to
make better use of medical technologies to improve healthcare, the
government is scrapping the committee that assesses these technologies for
use in the National Health Service. 3 September 2005
US FDA issues White Paper on automatic
identification of medical devices
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a White Paper giving a
general overview of some of the most prevalent technologies for automatic
identification of medical devices. 31 August 2005
Public consultation for the proposed
revision to the European Medical Devices Directive 93/42/EEC. 15 May
2005
AHA expresses concern over satellite
interference with medical devices. April 2005
European Commission launches public
consultation on RFID data-protection issues. February 2005
Health plans attempt to rein in radiology
costs
While prescription cost increases have moderated, radiology costs grow
almost 20% a year, according to new research from HealthLeaders-InterStudy.
February 2005
US Medicaid cuts will hurt
most-vulnerable citizens
The Hospital & Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania said that the
proposed $60 billion in Medicaid reductions over ten years shifts the burden
of deficit reduction to the most vulnerable citizens. February 2005
American Diabetes Association
disappointed with Bush's budget cuts for chronic disease prevention
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is slated for a 6.11%
funding cut and areas within the CDC responsible for responding to the
diabetes epidemic are slated for a 6.5% funding cut. There are currently
18.2 million Americans living with diabetes and more than 40 million with
pre-diabetes. February 2005
President Bush lauded for support of
medical liability reform
The Coalition for Affordable and Reliable Healthcare (CARH) applauded
President Bush's continued call for meaningful medical liability reform in
his State of the Union Address. February 2005
Business Roundtable applauds President
Bush's bold State of the Union agenda
Business Roundtable President John J Castellani hailed President Bush's
State of the Union address, saying it promoted innovative, pro-growth
approaches that will benefit all Americans. February 2005
New EU directive should simplify
electronic device manufacturing in Europe. January 2005
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