Send2Press Newswire

Southwest Ohio's First and Largest Outpatient Pain Clinic Continues to Grow Despite Weak Economy

Wed, 27 Aug 2008 14:03:07 GMT

CENTERVILLE, Ohio, Aug. 27 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Dr. Richard Donnini, President and Founder of the Pain Evaluation & Management Center of Ohio has recently announced that Dr. Mark Thomas, one of the most renowned addiction and pain medicine specialists in the State of Ohio, has joined the team at PEMCO. This outpatient pain clinic is unique in many ways, as it was the very first outpatient comprehensive pain center in all of southwest Ohio and continues to be a leader in what is considered to be the most appropriate treatment for chronic pain patients.

The American Pain Society has indicated that the most appropriate pain referral for a chronic pain patient is to a comprehensive pain clinic. PEMCO is the most comprehensive pain clinic in all of southwest Ohio and provides the widest variety and most comprehensive care for chronic pain patients. They have done so for 17 years, have over 40 years combined experience, and 40,000 procedures.

In addition to the most advanced interventional procedures that include spinal stimulators, vertebroplasty, radio frequency, and spinal pump treatment, the clinic has a physical therapy department with the most advanced equipment. The clinic provides medical management of patients using a variety of different medicines when other alternative treatments including interventional procedures have failed to provide a patient with appropriate pain relief. Additionally, the clinic has acupuncture, massage therapy, three nurse practitioners, and supplies a variety of durable medical goods that help provide patients improved functioning and pain control.

The clinic has a full-time psychologist on staff: Dr. Thomas Heitkemper, who is renowned as a pain psychologist and former head of the inpatient pain center at Jewish Hospital.

When asked about the addition of Dr. Thomas, Dr. Donnini replied, "We are one of the largest outpatient pain centers in Ohio, but we are not concerned with being the largest, only the best. Our growth has been selective and we choose to associate with the best of the best in order to give our patients top quality pain care. Dr. Thomas reflects that quality and will only improve on what we already offer."

In summary, Dr. Donnini continued, "Additionally, we are dedicated to providing a comprehensive multidisciplinary environment, which clearly offers the best option for a patient's chronic pain condition."

More Information about the Pain Evaluation & Management Center of Ohio (PEMCO), is available at www.daytonpain.com or by calling 937-439-4949.

All trademarks acknowledged.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Pain Evaluation and Management Center of Ohio, Doctor Mark Thomas

MMDI's Rebound HRD(R) Receives Separate Reimbursement Procedure Coding for Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair

Tue, 12 Aug 2008 13:18:45 GMT

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Minnesota Medical Development, Inc. (MMDI) today announced that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) have agreed to create seven new ICD-9-CM reimbursement procedure codes for its new Rebound HRD (Hernia Repair Device). The new coding will become effective October 1, 2008. The Rebound HRD was recently FDA 510(k) cleared and is intended to assist in the repair and/or reinforcement of hernia or other soft tissue defects where weakness exists and where the support of a nonabsorbable material is preferred.

The new coding options will delineate from the existing codes to identify the Rebound HRD as an inguinal hernia repair device which can be used specifically for laparoscopic hernia repair. Previously, CMS coding did not recognize the surgical differences between "open incisional" and "laparoscopic" types of hernia repair.

The Rebound HRD is a self-expanding Nitinol framed/surgical mesh medical device designed for the laparoscopic repair of both inguinal and ventral hernias. The super-elastic Nitinol frame allows the device to be folded and inserted laparoscopically. Once deployed, the device fully unfurls or "rebounds" back to its original shape - ready for quick and easy placement over the hernia defect. The Rebound HRD conforms to the anatomy while providing stability; eliminating the need for anchoring, which in turn, minimizes patient post-op discomfort and the risk of nerve/blood vessel injury. Although the Rebound HRD is ideally suited for laparoscopic surgery it may also be placed via an open incisional approach.

Mary Corkins, co-founder of The Reimbursement Group in Chicago, counseled MMDI with regard to the reimbursement and coding of the Rebound HRD. "In the early stages of our conversations with Mary, it became evident that the unique laparoscopic usability of the Rebound HRD was also an opportunity to influence the creation of separate codes for laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair," said MMDI Chief Marketing Officer, Steve Nuss. "We are very pleased that we have seized this opportunity. Establishment of these new codes acknowledges the groundbreaking technology and engineering behind the Rebound HRD," he added.

In 2006, The Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons (SLS) recognized the Rebound HRD as one of the "2006 Innovations of the Year." The SLS acknowledged the Rebound HRD as part of its 15th International Congress and Endo Expo 2006, held September 6-9 in Boston, Massachusetts.

Additional information can be obtained by contacting Steve Nuss, Chief Marketing Officer at 763-354-7105 or snuss@2mdinc.com. You may also visit our website at: www.2mdinc.com.

The SLS does not endorse or approve any products.

About MMDI
MMDI was established in 2001 and is based in Plymouth, Minnesota. Located in the heart of Minnesota's "Medical Alley," MMDI has access to some of the world's finest medical product development, manufacturing and marketing resources. The Company's primary objective is to identify, develop, patent and manufacture unique medical devices that provide significant clinical benefits and market opportunities.

All trademarks acknowledged.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Minnesota Medical Development, Rebound Hernia Repair Device

New Narconon.ca Makes it Easier to Find a Natural Drug Rehab Center

Tue, 12 Aug 2008 10:51:32 GMT

TROIS-RIVIERES, Quebec, Canada (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- According to Narconon Trois-Rivieres, the all-new redesigned Narconon.ca makes it easier to find the right drug rehab program. The new design improves accessibility to important information sections such as general drug rehab information, the underlying reasons of drug addiction, rehab success stories, as well as detailed and comprehensive drug information. With its completely natural drug rehab program, Narconon remains among the most effective drug rehab programs with a 70% success rate.

User-friendly sections and enhanced menus facilitate the process of finding relevant drug rehab information. New features include a quick sign-up box for the e-newsletter, the option of sending a page to a friend in need, a bookstore, as well as a newsfeed. An interactive tour of the rehab facilities along with Narconon graduate success Flash videos have also been added. The new site will be updated weekly with the latest success stories and news from Narconon.

For those seeking useful addiction and rehab resources, a book and gift store will be online shortly. With the ability to order and pay online, customers will see their order processed and shipped rapidly. Over 12 different drug-related publications and 10 types of items are available for purchase.

A consultation form allows individuals seeking drug rehabilitation treatment to rapidly get access to the resources they are looking for. Intake Counsellors are there to respond and help those wishing to get off drugs. There are two convenient ways to get help, by calling the toll free hotline at 1-877-782-7409 or filling out the online consultation form. Both methods are free and help drug addicts take a step closer to living a completely drug-free life.

All of these improvements make browsing the Narconon.ca website a much more compelling experience. Visit www.narconon.ca to learn more.

All trademarks acknowledged.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Narconon Trois-Rivieres, drug rehabilitation treatment

Launch of HealixTecc(TM): Engineered Orthotics for Professionals

Mon, 11 Aug 2008 14:22:04 GMT

WHIPPANY, N.J. (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Poly-Gel Inc., along with its consulting and business development partner, Salesreach LLC, announces the launch of HealixTecc: Engineered Orthotics for Professionals. The HealixTecc line consists of a collection of four lightweight, breathable foot beds, shock absorbing heel cups and wedges, adhesive gel sheeting, and all-gel toe and finger caps. These products improve comfort, enhance work performance, and help in decreasing work related injuries.

HealixTecc foot beds feature a combination of supportive shells with a high quality SilverTecc(TM) top cover. The foot beds vary in support from minimal to maximum. As an added benefit, the foot bed's top cover is anti-odor, anti-microbial, and anti-fungal and consists of nano-silver fibers that are extremely durable.

HealixTecc foot beds are manufactured from a patented breathable vented EVA material. The ventilated design of the foot bed wicks moisture away from the foot, keeping the foot cool. Additional benefits of the foot bed design are: the foot bed is lightweight, is exceptional in absorbing shock and shear forces, and is very comfortable. A brief overview of the different products is mentioned below.

ControlTecc(TM) offers the most heel control and arch support with its specialized peg design. Daily Living(TM) provides medium arch and heel support through its ThermoM arch shell. Soft Shell(TM) contains a gel heel plug that provides maximum cushioning and shock absorption from the heel to the arch. LightTecc(TM) is the lightest of all the shells and provides excellent comfort and cushioning.

The Heel Cups and Heel Wedges are manufactured of a very soft, yet durable, shock absorbing medical grade silicone gel. Both the Heel Cups and Heel Wedges absorb shock, pressure and impact. The M-Gel All Gel Toe and Finger Caps protect and cushion either injured or sore toes or fingers. M-Gel All Gel Toe and Finger Caps are manufactured with medical grade mineral oil and vitamin E. The self-adhesive silicone gel sheeting with an anti-microbial top cover is intended to protect areas of the body (feet or hands) susceptible to either constant friction or pressure.

Tom Hauert, managing principal of Salesreach LLC, says "We see that many of the markets that we serve including, law enforcement, fire, military, safety, commercial and industrial are ready and in need of engineered orthotics. These products will greatly improve the comfort and safety of those who wear work boots, work shoes, or are primarily on their feet for extended periods of time. We are proud to offer such an extensive line of quality products for these markets that far exceeds those of the competition."

For more information, including a catalog and a complimentary sample, please contact Hal Mordkoff at 1-866-438-2297 x29 or by email at hal@gelconcepts.com or visit our website at www.healixtecc.com. To become a distributor or retailer of HealixTecc, please contact Tom Hauert at (847) 241-5150 or via e-mail at tom@salesreach.com. Correspondence by mail may be sent to: Poly-Gel, 30 Leslie Court, Whippany, NJ 07981.

All trademarks acknowledged.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, HealixTecc Engineered Orthotics, Poly-Gel and Salesreach

O.C. Foot Surgeon Receives International Recognition

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:32:33 GMT

LAKE FOREST, Calif., July 28 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Orange County foot surgeon Dr. Richard Moy is widely recognized as the developer of "virtually pain-free" bunion surgery. Normally, bunion surgeries are painful and require lengthy recovery time. But signed patient affidavits (compiled since July of 2005) confirm that 97% of Dr. Moy's patients describe their surgery and recovery as virtually pain free.

Since Dr. Moy began his practice in 1992, he has performed over 3,000 bunion surgeries, making him a world leader in the field. In 2007, Dr. Moy performed over 500 operations, or an average of 44 surgeries per month, more than any other known foot surgeon in the United States.

A bunion is a bone protrusion near the big toe that affects nearly 2% of Americans or an estimated 5.2 million people of all ages (source: National Health Interview Survey, U.S. Bureau of the Census, 1995). Bunions can make it difficult to walk normally, participate in sports or wear high-heeled shoes. Left untreated, bunions generally continue to grow and become more painful.

Following the launch of a video-enhanced website about two years ago, Dr. Moy experienced a significant increase in the number patients traveling from outside California for surgery.

Since 2006, patients have traveled from 38 of the 50 United States, and from countries as distant as Egypt, to experience Dr. Moy's unique form of surgery. Out-of-state patients now account for approximately 25% of the doctor's surgical patients.

"I saved for five years to be able to come and do this surgery," said Nancy Farid, from Cairo, Egypt. "I explored options in India, Costa Rica, the U.K., and New York, but Dr. Moy was the only surgeon who was confident he could do what I needed. I was able to walk immediately after surgery. I had stitches, I had bones removed, and I was able to walk," said Farid.

Dr. Moy is a past President of the Orange County Podiatric Medical Association, a Diplomate of the American Board of Podiatric Surgery, a Fellow of the American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons, and Board Certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery.

For more information about Dr. Moy's surgical techniques, contact his office at (949) 837-3338, ext. 100 or visit www.DrMoy.com.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, pain free bunion surgery, Doctor Richard Moy

CareTools Announces iChart Available on Apple App Store

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 19:20:38 GMT

Digital medical record system designed for iPhone & iPod touch

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif., July 21 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- CareTools Inc., an industry recognized mobile healthcare information technology leader, today announced its native digital medical record system for iPhone and iPod touch will be available tomorrow on the Apple App Store.

"We recognized early on that iPhone has the potential to radically change the use of information technology at the most important patient/provider interface - the actual point-of-care," said Dr. Thomas Giannulli, President, CareTools. "We believe iChart running natively on iPhone is a leapfrog product in terms of its functionality, ease of use and affordable price. Given the value that iChart offers, we are confident it will significantly stimulate the adoption of information technology by healthcare providers."

iChart has been designed to act as an electronic "personal medical assistant" and focuses on streamlining the daily "chart, bill and fill" routine of every healthcare provider. iChart leverages the advanced capabilities of iPhone and iPod touch to warehouse patient data, and images, in addition to providing an updated list of medications, drug interactions, pharmacies, billing codes and complaint specific clinical templates. Synchronization of new information is accomplished wirelessly using secure web technology and iChart allows a single provider or entire healthcare network to automate medical data capture and effortlessly look-up patient related information using an efficiently designed "touch and tap" interface.

The iChart application can be configured to synchronize data to the user's included iChart Sync online account, where data can be viewed, shared and printed via a standard web browser. Group and enterprise accounts can setup data sharing teams and leverage data input by iChart teammates in near real-time. Caretools also offers each user the opportunity to link to community or enterprise lab results via a central HL7 gateway, and route prescriptions to national e-Prescribing networks. The iChart application is priced from just over $100 and can be downloaded wirelessly from the App Store using iPhone or iPhone touch.

Apple's new App Store will provide iPhone users with native applications in a variety of categories including games, business, news, sports, health, reference and travel. The App Store on iPhone works over cellular networks and Wi-Fi, which means it is accessible from just about anywhere, so you can purchase and download applications wirelessly and start using them instantly. Some applications are even free and the App Store notifies you when application updates are available. The App Store will be available in 62 countries at launch on July 11, 2008 at www.itunes.com/appstore/ (link will launch iTunes application).

CareTools is a software company with a single focus - information management at the point-of-care. With over 14 years of experience, commencing with the development of the first complete hand-held electronic medical record system, the Caretools team is committed to connecting care providers to patient information via the latest in mobile technology. For more information please visit www.caretools.com.

All trademarks acknowledged.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, CareTools iChart medical software, iPhone and iTouch applications

Paradigm Multimedia Technology Changes the Rules for Health Care TV Systems

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 14:55:15 GMT

EUGENE, Ore., July 16 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- ProTune Technology, patented by Paradigm Multimedia, provides new ways to design and enhance in-room entertainment systems in health care facilities. This radically new engineering concept for entertainment systems lowers equipment costs and increases the number of choices available when purchasing in-room systems.

The HT-24 Tuner Interface is the first product from Paradigm Multimedia that incorporates ProTune Technology. Early reactions from system integrators and hospitals are positive and enthusiastic about the benefits to be realized.

Previously, health care institutions had to purchase televisions containing specialized interface circuitry. This led to procuring low-volume units that were only available at a premium price.

With ProTune Technology, hospitals can now purchase commodity-priced, commercial displays with an on-going cost benefit as the HT 24 unit will support multiple display-replacement cycles. Further, cost is not the only advantage of using ProTune Technology.

Ed Baron, Business Development Manager at Paradigm Multimedia explains that, "Hospitals and other health care institutions have quickly seen the advantages that come with having increased display choices."

Television systems typically sold to health care institutions come from a limited selection of makes and models; perhaps even worse, the technology used is often "last generation" and stays that way.

The HT-24 interfaces the nurse-call system (at the pillow-speaker) to the LCD-display device. ProTune Technology puts an end to the old method of provisioning. It allows hospitals and healthcare-system integrators to keep the best and most current in-room entertainment systems in the facility - an increasingly important consideration given the importance of image and the measuring of quality today.

"The combined effect of lower cost and more choice," Baron added, "is creating a before and after effect on how in-room entertainment systems are procured. ProTune Technology is changing the rules: healthcare entertainment systems can now gain all the savings and flexibility of commodity-priced commercial monitors while de-coupling from yesterday's high-cost, low-choice game."

For more information, visit: www.paradigmmultimedia.com.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Paradigm Multimedia ProTune, Health Care TV Systems

PreViser Corporation Appoints Director of Medical Technology to Expand Further into Medicine

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 19:41:04 GMT

MOUNT VERNON, Wash., July 15 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- PreViser Corporation, a leader in oral health risk assessment and management, announced that Dr. Randy R. Nolf, DDS has been appointed as their new Director of Medical Technology. PreViser (www.previser.com) has the only patented, research-validated software that allows all dental professionals to accurately analyze patients' current oral health and future risk of oral diseases or problems. The program creates graphical reports that aid in treatment planning and enable patients to more fully participate in their treatment decisions by making their risk and disease status understandable. The PreViser suite of assessment tools has been translated into 4 languages and is accessed by dentists in over 40 countries.

PreViser is expanding this same risk assessment analysis into numerous fields of medical science, creating technology that provides decision support for medical professionals and education for patients to increase participation and compliance in their own treatments. Risk identification and management of disease in the earliest stage is sound cost saving strategy - increasingly important as patients must accept a larger share of their healthcare expenditures. When asked about PreViser's advance into medicine, Dr. Nolf stated, "We're applying important lessons learned from dentists and in dental disease management to other systemic diseases and other types of practice."

Dr. Nolf was one of the 10 periodontists on the original concept development team leading to PreViser's technology and co-holds the patent. He has maintained a full-time Periodontology practice in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania while playing an advisory role with PreViser. "Dr. Nolf's innovative and continuing contributions to the field of disease management through computerized, objective risk and disease analysis makes it a logical progression to appoint him as the Director of Medical Technology as we expand beyond dentistry into other disease entities," stated Carl Loeb, PreViser CEO.

Nolf graduated from Temple University School of Dentistry in 1979, did his post-doctoral specialty training in the Temple Graduate Periodontology Program 1979-1981, and was a Clinical Surgical Instructor 1990-1999 in the Temple Graduate Perio Program. In his own practice, he shows a strong interest in software and technology, and is an active member of many dental associations.

When asked about the future of his practice Nolf said, "These are exciting times - medicine and dentistry are changing, and the next revolution will be in technology for less costly, interceptive treatments before expensive repair is required. Utilizing the same amount of money to treat a growing population while improving the outcomes for our patients is possible and confirmed by research. It's a great advantage to be in full-time practice while engaged in the development of these new technologies; it brings unique perspective to both my practice and my contribution at PreViser."

Nolf will continue his practice full-time with limited speaking engagements. For more information or an interview, contact Dr. Nolf through his Stroudsburg office 570-420-1500.

More information about PreViser technology: www.previser.com.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, oral health risk assessment, PreViser Corporation

Popular Orthopedics Medical Handbook Now Available in Portuguese

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 11:45:28 GMT

NEW YORK, N.Y., July 15 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Due to high demand in Brazil, a popular medical handbook, Fracture Classifications in Clinical Practice (ISBN-10: 1846280257; ISBN-13: 978-184-628-0252), has recently been published in Portuguese by DiLivros Publishing company. Authored by Dr. Seyed Behrooz Mostofi, FRCS (Tr&Orth), the book benefits an array of orthopedic medical professionals and helps them to communicate with greater accuracy and precision.

In 2006, this practical orthopedic handbook was first published in English by Springer-Verlag. It is primarily written for orthopedic residents and doctors to have accurate and up-to-date information available to them, especially when in the emergency room.

"When under pressure, doctors and residents often lack experience in orthopedics making the recognition and accurate identification of fractures and treatment a challenge," Dr. Mostofi explains. "This handbook is intended to give them the practical tools that they need."

"Fracture Classifications in Clinical Practice" is a comprehensive handbook that provides clear illustrations and explanatory text. This soft cover handbook is well organized and simply structured within a little over 100 pages. It breaks down the most widely used classification systems into a concise repository of information.

Classification systems that are covered include the most commonly used systems, allowing readers the opportunity to make a correct diagnosis using the appropriate criteria, while simplifying planning and management of future care. It also ensures that communication with experienced staff is more effective.

While the book is geared to registrars and residents, other medical professionals such as accident and emergency physicians, nurses, and physiotherapists will also benefit.

Dr. Mostofi is a consultant orthopedic surgeon at East Kent Hospitals, U.K. He is also the author of several other books that discuss basic facts in hip and knee replacements; rapid orthopedics diagnosis; and the opus magnum - Who's Who in Orthopedics.

Due to this handbook's global popularity, "Fracture Classifications in Clinical Practice" will also soon be available in Chinese.

The book is currently available at all major bookstores as well as at www.Springer.com and www.Amazon.com.

All trademarks acknowledged.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, orthopedic handbook, Seyed Behrooz Mostofi

Electronic Medical Records Are No Longer Limited to Physicians with Deep Pockets

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 09:52:08 GMT

LATHRUP VILLAGE, Mich., July 15 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Webahn Inc. announces the launch of an online electronic medical records application - Capzule.com. This new system makes it affordable for small physician groups to make the switch.

The launch of Capzule comes at an ideal time. A recent study appeared in the New England Journal of Medicine that reported many small physician groups have not switched over to an electronic system due to the high cost factor. On average, conversion costs approximately $40,000 per physician. With Capzule.com, the online cost is around $200 per month, per physician.

The study went on to explain that electronic medical records have helped to improve the quality and timeliness of care. Yet, due to high cost, less than one in five of the nation's doctors have started using such records.

Over 2,500 physicians responded to the survey. Among the small number of respondents who had fully functional electronic-records systems, most physicians reported the positive effects of the system on the quality of clinical decisions (82 percent); communication with other providers (92 percent); communication with patients (72 percent); prescription refills (95 percent); timely access to medical records (97 percent); and avoidance of medication errors (86 percent). Furthermore, 82 to 85 percent reported a positive effect on the delivery of long-term and preventive care.

"We want small clinics to have access to these positive health care practices as much as larger clinics who can afford expensive systems," Vinu Nair, CEO, Webahn Inc. says. "As a result, we created an innovative online tool that is not only cost effective, but efficient. Capzule is a fast evolving suite of tools that help small practices deliver quality care."

Webahn Inc. is a privately-held company based in Michigan. The company has been developing innovative health care solutions for over seven years. Their first product, OvernightScribe.com, originated to provide Internet-enabled clinical documentation platform to health care providers to manage medical transcriptions. OvernightScribe is used by many physicians across the country including leading hospitals like Henry Ford Health System of Michigan.

Capzule.com is subscription based and released to the public in its beta phase. For more information, visit: www.Capzule.com.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, electronic medical records software, Webahn Capzule

Jim 'Catfish' Hunter Foundation and The ALS Association Announce Opening of ALS Clinic at Pitt County Memorial Hospital in September

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 12:55:07 GMT

GREENVILLE, N.C., July 10 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- The ALS Association - Jim "Catfish" Hunter Chapter today announced that Pitt County Memorial Hospital will open an Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) clinic in late September. ALS, commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a neurodegenerative disease that attacks nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to progressive paralysis usually in less than five years. The new clinic will be the only multi-disciplinary clinic in eastern North Carolina to serve persons with ALS.

"We are excited to offer a clinic devoted to ALS in Greenville to help serve everyone living with this dreadful disease," said PCMH President Steve Lawler. "Our communities have certainly felt the impact of ALS. With this clinic, we expect to provide better access to expert medical care, cutting-edge research and clinical trials. The end result will be a one-stop shop for health care needs."

The clinic, slated to open September 26th, will work in partnership with Duke University's ALS Clinic and will be led by Richard Bedlack, MD, PhD and Robert Frere, MD of East Carolina Neurology. Bedlack is the director of the Duke ALS Clinic and a world-renowned neurologist in the ALS community. Also playing an integral role in the clinic will be the Jim "Catfish" Hunter Chapter, The ALS Association's North Carolina chapter, by providing valuable information and resources to people with ALS.

"This clinic is long overdue, but we are thrilled to have so many caring people coming together to make this a reality," said Jerry Dawson, President of the ALS Association's Jim "Catfish" Hunter Chapter. "Specifically, we owe a huge debt of gratitude to Representative Walter B. Jones, Steve Lawler, Dr. Richard Bedlack, Dr. Robert Frere and most importantly Helen Hunter and the Jim 'Catfish' Hunter ALS Foundation for providing the necessary funding to make this a reality. No longer will people with ALS in this area of our state have to travel long distances to receive world class care."

Funding for the clinic was generously provided by the Jim "Catfish" Hunter ALS Foundation in Hertford, NC. The foundation, named in honor of the North Carolina native and Major League Baseball Hall of Fame pitcher, was founded in 1999. Hunter, who was arguably the best pitcher in baseball in the 1970s, was diagnosed with ALS in 1998 and died from complications of the disease a year later at the age of 53. During that time, he used his celebrity status to increase awareness for ALS. More recently, Keith LeClair, East Carolina University's former baseball coach, lost his battle with ALS in 2006. The deaths of these men not only brought the effects of a disease like ALS to light, but also showed the need for an ALS clinic in eastern North Carolina.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony, with invited guests of honor including Senator Elizabeth Dole, Senator Richard Burr Representative Jones, N.C. Senator Marc Basnight and the Hunter family, will formally introduce the Jim "Catfish" Hunter ALS Clinic to the Down East community on its opening day.

About the Jim "Catfish" Hunter ALS Foundation
The Jim "Catfish" Hunter ALS Foundation is sometimes confused with the ALS Association Jim "Catfish" Hunter" Chapter but is a separate non-profit organization based in Hertford, North Carolina. The Foundation was formed in 1999 by Jim "Catfish" Hunter, his family and friends and the Bear Swamp-Beech Springs Ruritan Club. The Foundation is a proud supporter and partner of The ALS Association - Jim "Catfish" Hunter Chapter. The Foundation provided the start up funding necessary to establish key Chapter programs such as the Respite Care and Augmentative Communication Grant programs.

The Foundation also works to support research and provide grants based on need to families living with and fighting ALS. Through events such as softball tournaments, golf tournaments and walks, the Foundation works diligently to provide help for all people living with ALS. For more information: The Jim "Catfish" Hunter ALS Foundation, Post Office Box 47, Hertford, North Carolina 27944.

About Pitt County Memorial Hospital
Pitt County Memorial Hospital, one of four academic medical centers in North Carolina, is the flagship hospital for University Health Systems of Eastern Carolina and serves as the teaching hospital for the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University. Pitt Memorial is a regional resource for all levels of health services and information.

About The ALS Association
The ALS Association is the world leader in ALS research, patient care and ALS advocacy and is the only national not-for-profit health organization dedicated solely to the fight against ALS. The Association's nationwide network of chapters provides comprehensive patient services and support to the ALS community. The mission of The ALS Association is to lead the fight to cure and treat ALS through global cutting-edge research, and to empower people with Lou Gehrig's disease and their families to live fuller lives by providing compassionate care and support.

The Jim "Catfish" Hunter Chapter has been serving PALS across North Carolina since 1987. The Chapter has grown into an award-winning 501(c)3 non-profit organization because of its efforts in service, advocacy, and fundraising. The Chapter has been recognized by The ALS Association as Chapter of the Year the past two years.

More about the Chapter can be found at www.CatfishChapter.org.

All trademarks acknowledged.

Affinity Healthcare LLC Launches Travel Medicine Services

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 09:50:36 GMT

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill., July 9 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Affinity Healthcare LLC, a medical group practice with northwest Chicago suburban offices located in Buffalo Grove, Wheeling, and Arlington Heights, announces new Travel Medicine services offered at the 1538 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, IL office. This international travel consultation and inoculation service is open to established patients of Affinity Healthcare LLC, as well as the general public (14 years of age and older).

Infectious Disease Specialist Heads Travel Medicine Program: Dr. C. David Bakken, who earned his undergraduate degree from Northwestern University, Chicago, and his Doctor of Medicine degree from Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, completed his Residency in Internal Medicine and his Fellowship in Infectious Disease at Rush Presbyterian St. Luke's Medical Center, Chicago, IL.

In private practice since 1974, Dr. Bakken is Board Certified in the specialties of Internal Medicine, Infectious Disease, and Emergency Medicine. He has extensive experience in the field of Travel Medicine.

According to Michael Hartke, CEO of Affinity Healthcare LLC, "We are pleased to offer patients convenient access to an Infectious Disease Specialist of Dr. Bakken's caliber. He offers the benefit of his expertise to ensure the highest quality travel medicine program. Affinity Healthcare LLC patients can be confident that the advice and treatment they receive will help prevent travel-related infectious diseases."

To schedule a Travel Medicine appointment telephone: 847-253-6464, ext. 5405. For more information regarding Affinity Healthcare LLC, visit our website: www.affinitydocs.com. Media: To arrange an interview, please contact: Jacqueline Speckin, Chief Marketing Officer, Affinity Healthcare LLC, Email: jspeckin@affinitydocs.com or phone: 847-847-7457, cell: 847-567-4575.

About Affinity Healthcare
Established in 2007, Affinity Healthcare LLC was created by the merger of the Northwest Chicago Suburban medical practices formerly named Greater Northwest Medical Group, North Suburban Internists, and Adult Care Specialists. Affinity Healthcare LLC offers Internal Medicine, Family Practice, Gastroenterology, Diagnostic Imaging, Physical Therapy, Nutritional Counseling, Podiatry, and Travel Medicine by appointment, and Immediate Care walk-in care at our office located at 1051 W. Rand Road, Arlington Heights.

Affinity Healthcare treats approximately 100,000 patients at offices located in Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, and Wheeling, IL. Our mission: To continuously evolve, applying leading edge innovation, and placing our patients' needs first and foremost at every level of Affinity Healthcare. We are dedicated to delivering unique, high quality, and convenient healthcare services based on this patient-focused approach.

FDA Grants Epeius Biotechnologies' Rexin-G A Third Orphan Drug Designation, This Time for the Treatment of Soft Tissue Sarcomas

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 18:01:25 GMT

SAN MARINO, Calif., July 8 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Epeius Biotechnologies Corporation today announced that Rexin-G has been granted Orphan Drug Designation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of all soft tissue sarcomas. This latest approval is the third clinical indication for which Rexin-G has been formally recognized by the FDA in the United States. This latest approval for Rexin-G validates the company's remarkable strategy of addressing a global unmet medical need by caring for one individual patient, one particular type of tumor, one otherwise intractable cancer at a time.

The clinical development of Rexin-G worldwide has been equally remarkable. Beginning with the most serious and life-threatening forms of pancreatic cancer, Rexin-G has demonstrated unprecedented single-agent efficacy in metastatic cancers of the colon, breast, skin, lung, and bone in a progressive program of expanded access that continues to achieve historic milestones. Eschewing any trappings of personal accomplishment, Epeius gives credit to the dedication and efforts of the many pioneering oncologists, the progressive medical institutions, and the conscientious regulatory agencies who have all served to guide Rexin-G, with its elegant tumor-targeting nanotechnologies, to the bedside. Most recently, Rexin-G has been approved in the Philippines for the treatment of all solid tumors that are refractory to standard chemotherapies.

In addition to developing the first and so far only tumor-targeted genetic medicine that has been validated in the clinic, Epeius Biotechnologies has assumed the daunting responsibilities of advancing these enabling platform technologies safely and effectively through an arduous array of regulatory hurdles and medical proofs-of-principle that are required for a radically new medicine. Initial Phase I safety studies established the general safety of Rexin-G, followed by Phase I/II efficacy studies where optimal clinical protocols were established for each particular type of tumor.

The importance of these progressive dose-escalation studies-which clearly establish safety before escalating to more potent tumoricidal dose levels-is of primary concern in the development of a new genetic medicine like Rexin-G. Moreover, the establishment of a functional dose-response relationship is of fundamental significance, not only in terms of basic pharmacology, but in establishing the physiological mechanisms-of-action that are of major importance in determining the predictability of a new anti-cancer agent and ultimately in gaining full regulatory approval for Rexin-G in the United States.

Based on the scientific and medicinal merits of Rexin-G, as well as the rarity, seriousness, and lack of effective therapies for metastatic cancers, the granting of a third Orphan Drug Designation by the FDA at this time is both encouraging and confirmatory. Orphan Drug Designation provides important economic incentives and powerful market protections that encourage the development of innovative products in the cancer field. U.S. Orphan Drug Designation provides seven years of market exclusivity for Rexin-G, a reduction in fees and taxes, and additional regulatory support for ongoing R&D initiatives.

About Epeius Biotechnologies
Epeius Biotechnologies Corporation is a privately held biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the advancement of genetic medicine with the development and commercialization of its proprietary targeted delivery systems. To learn more about our pipeline of biotechnologies and products that are currently available for licensing and clinical development, please visit our website, www.epeiusbiotech.com.

For more information about Rexin-G, on-going clinical trials in the USA and abroad, please contact Dr. Erlinda M. Gordon at egordon@epeiusbiotech.com.

Epeius Biotechnologies' Tumor-Targeted Rexin-G Receives FDA Orphan Drug Designation for The Treatment of Osteosarcoma

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 14:42:48 GMT

SAN MARINO, Calif., July 8 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Epeius Biotechnologies Corporation today announced that Rexin-G has been granted Orphan Drug Designation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of osteosarcoma. Based on several criteria, including the rarity, seriousness, and current lack of effective therapies for metastatic osteosarcoma, as well as the scientific and medicinal merit of Rexin-G, the granting of Orphan Drug Status by the FDA validates the unique clinical development strategy of Epeius Biotechnologies: that is, to demonstrate the profound single-agent efficacy of Rexin-G where traditional treatments have historically failed.

The FDA Orphan Drug Act was designed to encourage the development of new products that demonstrate significant promise for the treatment of very serious or life-threatening conditions that are relatively rare, affecting fewer than 200,000 persons in the United States. Orphan Drug Designation provides important economic incentives and powerful market protections that encourage the development of innovative products in the cancer field. U.S. Orphan Drug Designation provides seven years of market exclusivity for Rexin-G, a reduction in fees and taxes, and additional regulatory support for R&D initiatives.

About Rexin-G
Rexin-G(R), the lead product of Epeius Biotechnologies, is the first in a series of tumor-targeted anti-cancer agents designed to seek out and accumulate in metastatic cancers that have spread throughout the body, delivering a lethal payload of genetic medicine to tumor cells and their associated blood supplies without harming normal cells, tissues, or organ systems. Specifically designed to function within the context of the human circulatory system, the demonstration of single agent-efficacy by Rexin-G in Stage IV or metastatic osteosarcoma (ASCO, 2008) is an indication of the remarkable clinical potential of the precision targeting technologies embodied in its design. The Orphan Drug designation by the FDA represents an important milestone in the clinical development of Rexin-G for osteosarcoma.

About Epeius Biotechnologies
Epeius Biotechnologies Corporation is a privately held biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the advancement of genetic medicine with the development and commercialization of its proprietary targeted delivery systems. Credited with innovations ranging from gene discovery, designer therapeutics, pathotropic (disease-seeking) targeting, vector engineering, to advanced biopharmaceutical manufacturing and bioprocess development, Epeius Biotechnologies is well positioned to "launch" its enabling platform biotechnologies for the benefit of cancer patients worldwide.

To learn more about our pipeline of proprietary biotechnologies that are currently available for licensing and clinical development, please visit us at www.epeiusbiotech.com.

Renowned Fertility Specialist, Steven A. Brody, M.D., Ph.D. to Anchor New San Diego Medical Institute

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 19:21:33 GMT

SAN DIEGO, Calif., June 27 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Sher Institutes for Reproductive Medicine(R) (SIRM) have announced the opening of an office in La Jolla, California, with Dr. Steven A. Brody accepting the position of Scientific Director and attending physician. Dr. Brody is a world renowned physician, author, and reproductive health expert with longstanding ties to San Diego.

Sher Institutes for Reproductive Medicine, with 15 offices across the United States, is one of the largest networks of fertility centers in the country. Other SIRM offices in Southern California include locations in Glendale and Chino Hills. Dr. Aykut Bayrak is Medical Director of the Southern California offices of SIRM.

"We are extremely excited to welcome Dr. Brody to our fertility practice," said Dr. Geoffrey Sher, co-founder and Executive Medical Director of Sher Institutes. "Steven and I are long-time colleagues and friends. I have the utmost respect for his expertise and passion in this field. This partnership will benefit our medical group, and more importantly, it will benefit couples in San Diego struggling with infertility."

Dr. Brody is a pioneer in the field of infertility and reproductive health, with more than 20 years' experience in the discipline. Among his numerous distinctions are the following:

* Fellowship status in four medical societies and Board Certified in four specialties: Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Internal Medicine, and Endocrinology & Metabolism.

* Dr. Brody's textbook Principles and Practice of Assisted Human Reproduction was co-authored with Dr. Robert Edwards of Cambridge University, one of the two men responsible for the birth of the world's first IVF baby.

* Author of the acclaimed textbook Endocrine Disorders in Pregnancy.

* Appointed to the faculty of the prestigious UCSD School of Medicine as an Assistant Clinical Professor.

* Recipient of the Osler Award, named for the father of American medicine, Dr. William Osler.

* Named San Diego's Doctor of the Year in 1995 by the San Diego Medical Journal and Metropolitan Magazine.

* President of Epsilon Association of Phi Beta Kappa, the national academic honor society.

"I'm thrilled to be a part of the Sher Institute family," said Dr. Brody. "This relationship will enable me to introduce new fertility breakthroughs to the San Diego medical community and help many more couples longing to start a family." These SIRM breakthroughs include a genetic diagnosis method called "CGH" (comparative genomic hybridization) that allows analysis of all 46 chromosomes in an embryo, as well as advanced egg/embryo freezing techniques, and new ovarian stimulation protocols for In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) in patients with resistant ovaries.

About SIRM
"Sher Institutes for Reproductive Medicine" is an independently-owned network of fertility centers operating with a common vision and established with a set of cutting-edge medical protocols. Sher Institutes were established by Drs. Geoffrey Sher and Ghanima Maassarani in 1998. Dr. Sher also co-founded the country's first private In Vitro Fertilization program in 1982. Sher Institutes provide individualized patient care in a warm and compassionate environment.

Sher Institutes are in Southern California (Glendale, Chino Hills and San Diego); Northern California (Sacramento and Pleasanton); greater New York (Manhattan, Westchester, Long Island); New Jersey (Bedminster, Fair Lawn, and Phillipsburg); Texas (Dallas); Missouri (St. Louis); Illinois (Peoria); and Nevada (Las Vegas).

Learn more about the Sher Institutes at www.haveababy.com.

For more information, contact:
Steven Brody, M.D.
(858) 455-6100
Website: www.haveababy.com