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UnitedHealth Group Inc.'s Earnings Guidance and Settlements Generates Comments

2008-07-03T11:25:00.000-06:00

A.M. Best Comments on UnitedHealth Group Inc.'s Earnings Guidance and Settlements

OLDWICK, N.J.-- July 03, 2008 --A.M. Best Co. has commented that the ratings of UnitedHealth Group Inc. (UnitedHealth) (Minnetonka, MN) (NYSE: UNH) and its subsidiaries remain unchanged following the company's release of a revision to earnings guidance and reduced second quarter and full year 2008 earnings. UnitedHealth also announced a settlement in the federal securities class action and Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) lawsuits.

On July 2, 2008, UnitedHealth announced a revision to its earnings outlook for 2008 following an assessment of preliminary second quarter 2008 results and recent business trends. The company's risk-based commercial business produced a lower level of gross margin than expected due to increased pressure on premium yields, which are resulting from a competitive commercial business environment. Furthermore, UnitedHealth is experiencing a decrease in the gross margin for Medicare Part D and Medicare Chronic Special Needs Plans.

Additionally, UnitedHealth announced that it had reached an agreement to settle both the federal securities class action and ERISA lawsuits. Both lawsuits arose from UnitedHealth's historical stock option practices. As a result of the settlements, UnitedHealth will pay $895 million pre-tax into a settlement fund for the benefit of class members of the federal securities class action lawsuit and $17 million into a settlement fund for the benefit of ERISA class members. UnitedHealth's insurance carriers will cover the majority of the ERISA settlement.

A.M. Best expects UnitedHealth to continue to experience pressure in the commercial market, which may result in lower margins. The result of these announcements and the subsequent payment for the settlements are expected to increase UnitedHealth's debt-to-capital ratio above 40%, should the company use debt for the payment. While A.M. Best is not comfortable with an increase in the debt-to-capital ratio above 40%, A.M. Best expects the ratio to remain less than 45% and for this ratio to return to 40%by second quarter 2009. A.M. Best also expects UnitedHealth's earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) interest coverage to remain at 10 times or greater. Additionally, A.M. Best would like UnitedHealth to scale back its share repurchase program until the debt-to-capital ratio decreases to 40%.

On January 29, 2008, A.M. Best issued a press release announcing a downgrade to the ratings of UnitedHealth Group and select subsidiaries. At that time, A.M. Best considered the change in the company's capital structure and increase in debt-to-capital ratio in the rating action.

If UnitedHealth's debt-to-capital ratio increases above 45% or if the company announces another negative revision to earnings (including any additional settlements or fines), a negative rating action may occur. Additionally, A.M. Best would take into consideration the magnitude of the amount of any settlement or fine in any rating action. A.M. Best will continue to monitor the financial results and risk-based capitalization of UnitedHealth and its insurance subsidiaries, as well as continue its ongoing dialogue with company management.

Founded in 1899, A.M. Best Company is a global full-service credit rating organization dedicated to serving the financial and health care service industries, including insurance companies, banks, hospitals and health care system providers. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

Contacts

A.M. Best Co.
Analysts:
Sally Rosen, 908-439-2200, ext. 5280
sally.rosen@ambest.com
or
Kenneth Frino, 908-439-2200, ext. 5012
kenneth.frino@ambest.com
or
Public Relations:
Jim Peavy, 908-439-2200, ext. 5644
james.peavy@ambest.com
or
Rachelle Morrow, 908-439-2200, ext. 5378
rachelle.morrow@ambest.com

Sterilisation and Disinfectant Markets in Europe

2008-07-01T11:42:00.001-06:00

Sterilisation and Disinfectant Markets in Europe Enjoy Mixed Fortunes

LONDON-- July 01, 2008 --The sterilisation and disinfectant market in Europe has been witnessing slow growth as hospitals try to tackle alarmingly high infection rates resulting from inadequately decontaminated patient care equipment. However, the market is mature and saturated, offering little scope for technological innovation, and the complete lack of product differentiation is hampering competition. While the disinfection market has shown potential for expansion, the sterilisation market remains largely static.

New analysis from Frost & Sullivan (http://www.medicaldevices.frost.com), European Sterilisation and Disinfection Equipment Market, finds that the market earned revenues of over USD269.7 million in 2007 and estimates this to reach USD352.0 million in 2014.

"Though the sterilisation and disinfection equipment market is not characterised by a strong level of technological development, certain mutations are contributing to the overall positive growth," says Frost & Sullivan Research Analyst Kieu A. Vuong. "For instance, slack growth in the low-temperature gas steriliser segments is compensated by positive trends impacting the disinfector equipment sector."

The spurt in the number of surgical procedures utilising minimally invasive instruments such as endoscopes is also driving the need for sophisticated systems for proper disinfection and maintenance of such equipment. This demand for more efficient disinfecting methods is fuelling the growth of the automatic endoscope reprocessor (AER) segment. The washers and AER disinfection markets are exhibiting continuous growth due to advancements in surgical instrumentation and liquid chemical disinfectants as well.

However, emerging trends indicate increasing consolidation and centralisation of hospitals in Europe, drastically reducing the number of hospitals and the number of potential customers. End-user consolidation is a challenge for this market, as purchasing power is augmented.

"High prices along with slow rate of product replacement will force manufacturers to identify different revenue streams in order to maintain and increase their profit margins," notes Vuong. "Despite several attempts at creating a unified platform, insecurities concerning the standardisation and regulation of products continue."

Nonetheless, participants can accrue revenues by providing integrated service packages and proper nurturing of customer relationships, since virtually all hospitals are already equipped with infection control equipment. To achieve the high standards required for service packages, many companies have entered into partnerships to reduce costs and enhance their offering.

If you are interested in a virtual brochure, which provides manufacturers, end users and other industry participants with an overview of the European sterilisation and disinfection equipment market, then send an e-mail to Patrick Cairns, Corporate Communications, at pcairns_pr@frost.com, with your full name, company name, title, telephone number, company e-mail address, company website, city, state and country. Upon receipt of the above information, an overview will be sent to you by e-mail.

European Sterilisation and Disinfection Equipment Market is part of the Medical Devices Growth Partnership Service programme, which also includes research in the following markets: cardiovascular, wound care, surgical, orthopaedic and others. All research services included in subscriptions provide detailed market opportunities and industry trends that have been evaluated following extensive interviews with market participants. Interviews with the press are available.

Frost & Sullivan, the Growth Partnership Company, partners with clients to accelerate their growth. The company's TEAM Research, Growth Consulting and Growth Team MembershipT empower clients to create a growth-focused culture that generates, evaluates and implements effective growth strategies. Frost & Sullivan employs over 45 years of experience in partnering with Global 1000 companies, emerging businesses and the investment community from more than 30 offices on six continents. For more information about Frost & Sullivan's Growth Partnerships, visit http://www.frost.com.

European Sterilisation and Disinfection Equipment Market

M236

Contacts

Frost & Sullivan
Corporate Communications - Europe & Africa
Patrick Cairns, +27 18 468 2315
patrick.cairns@frost.com
or
Corporate Communications - North America
Stacie Kopecki, 210-247-2450
fax: 210-348-1003
stacie.kopecki@frost.com
or
Corporate Communications - Asia Pacific
Jasminder Kaur, 65-6890-0937
fax: 65-6890-0988
jkaur@frost.com
or
Corporate Communications - South Asia
Remi Chatterjee, +91-44-4001 3419
fax: +91-22-2832 4713
remi.chaterjee@frost.com
or
Corporate Communications - Middle East
Nimisha Iyer, +91 22 4001 3404
fax: +91 22 2832 4713
niyer@frost.com
or
Corporate Communications - China
Amelia Wong, +86 21 5407 5783, ext. 8669
cell: +86 13621724823
amelia.wong@frost.com
or
Corporate Communications - Latin America
José María Jantus, + 54-11-4777-9951
fax: + 54-11-4777-0071
jose.jantus@frost.com
http://www.frost.com

New Patient Safety Solution Supported By Pharmacy Technician Certification Board

2008-06-28T20:14:00.000-06:00

Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) Supports Florida's New Patient Safety Solution

The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), the leading national program that has certified more than 300,000 pharmacy technicians, supports and congratulates the Florida House of Representatives and Governor Charlie Crist for passing legislation requiring new standards for pharmacy technicians. The new Florida legislation takes a progressive step toward increasing patient safety for consumers. The legislation will ensure pharmacy technicians meet key requirements for training, certification and registration.

Washington, D.C. - June 27, 2008 -- The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) (http://www.ptcb.org/), the leading national program that has certified more than 300,000 pharmacy technicians, is pleased to support and congratulate the Florida Legislature for passing SB 1360 and Governor Charlie Crist for signing it into law, requiring new standards for pharmacy technicians. Tireless advocacy efforts for the passage of this critical patient safety legislation and its final approval by Governor Crist were spearheaded by the Florida Society of Health-System Pharmacists (FSHP) and the Florida Pharmacy Association (FPA).

The new Florida legislation takes a progressive step toward increasing patient safety for consumers. By passing this legislation without amendment, and signing it into law, the Florida state legislature and governor will ensure pharmacy technicians meet key requirements for training, certification and registration. PTCB is proud to have certified 15,000 pharmacy technicians in Florida to date and looks forward to working with more pharmacy technicians and their employers.

"Florida's new pharmacy technician standards are an important patient safety solution for consumers in the Sunshine State and Governor Crist and the state's legislators should be applauded," said PTCB Executive Director and CEO Melissa Murer Corrigan. "To meet these new state standards, PTCB is looking forward to continued work with pharmacy technicians and significant employers of Florida's pharmacy technicians such as Walgreen's, CVS, Publix, Target, the U.S. military, multiple health-systems and independent pharmacists in communities across the state. Several of these employers presently support and endorse PTCB across the United States."

The landmark piece of Florida legislation (SB 1360) contributes to raising the bar for states across the country by providing an example of the high standards needed for pharmacy technicians. The more than 40,000 pharmacy technicians currently working in Florida will be required to register with the Florida Board of Pharmacy by 2010. In 2011, they will need to either complete a board-approved training program with 1,500 hours of work as a technician under a Florida licensed pharmacist, or be certified (https://www.ptcb.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=Guidebook_to_Certification&Template=/CM/HTMLDisplay.cfm&ContentID=2952) by a program accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). PTCB is the pioneer in certifying pharmacy technicians (https://www.ptcb.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=Learn&Template=/CM/ContentDisplay.cfm&ContentID=1384) and is accredited by the NCCA. PTCB's certification program has been included in regulations by more than 30 state boards of pharmacy. Through its strategic partnership with Pearson VUE, PTCB is able to offer highly scalable computer-based testing through the world's largest network of testing centers.

Studies show without a doubt that Americans support a standard of excellence for pharmacy technicians. A recent poll commissioned by PTCB confirms that 91% of American consumers support strong regulations across the country to protect patient safety by requiring that pharmacy technicians are trained and certified. While states like Florida reflect this growing need for action, almost twenty other states still have no requirement for certification. Clearly, consumers are relying on state boards of pharmacy to protect them and enact strong requirements such as Florida's for pharmacy technicians.

About the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) (http://www.ptcb.org/)

PTCB was established in January 1995 and is governed by five pharmacy organizations - the American Pharmacists Association (APhA), the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), the Illinois Council of Health-System Pharmacists (ICHP), the Michigan Pharmacists Association (MPA) and the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP). Since PTCB's inception, PTCB has certified over 300,000 pharmacy technicians through the examination and transfer process. PTCB's certification program is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). The goal of the PTCB national certification program is to enable pharmacy technicians to work more effectively with pharmacists to offer safe and effective patient care and service. PTCB contracts with Pearson VUE, the industry's technology leader, as its computer-based testing vendor. PTCB draws upon the experience and expertise of its 13-year partner, Professional Examination Service (PES) for test development.

Contact Information
Mark Franco
The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board
http://www.ptcb.org
202-429-7508
202-828-9767

Suboxone Treatment Program Launched

2008-06-27T19:51:00.000-06:00

InterventionTreatment.com Launches Suboxone Treatment Program

LOS ANGELES-- June 27, 2008 --Intervention Treatment announced today that it has launched a suboxone treatment program. The program will be used to increase Intervention Treatment's Global mission of providing Intervention and Treatment resources to those affected by alcohol and drug addiction. According to Dr. Jason Schiffman, Chief Medical Officer for Intervention Treatment, "There is a large, poorly met demand for outpatient, office-based treatment of opiate dependence and the addition of the suboxone treatment program to Intervention Treatment's array of alcohol and drug addiction related services will be a great tool for patients and their families."

Intervention Treatment is currently one of the fastest growing online resources for those affected by drug and alcohol addiction. The new Suboxone Treatment program is designed to help those affected by opiate addiction.

About Suboxone:

Suboxone is the first drug approved by the FDA for opiate dependence treatment in office based settings. This means that patients addicted to opiates may now choose to receive opiate-based treatment as an outpatient instead of in a hospital setting. Patients are evaluated and treated during office visits and receive a prescription for suboxone which they may fill at any pharmacy. Suboxone is comprised of two separate medications: buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine is a partial opiate agonist, meaning its opiate effects are significantly reduced compared to that of full opiate agonists, such as vicodin or heroin. The naloxone in suboxone is not appreciably absorbed from the digestive track when suboxone is taken orally and is in place to prevent the misuse of suboxone by injection drug users. The combination of these two medications leads to suboxone's effectiveness in treating opiate dependence.

About Suboxone Treatment:

Suboxone treatment differs significantly from standard opiate dependence treatment programs. Traditionally, opiate addicts undergoing medical detoxification have been administered either methadone or a combination of drugs, each targeting a symptom of withdrawal. The latter approach usually must take place in an inpatient setting in order to be done safely, while methadone treatment requires a patient to visit a clinic on a daily basis to receive a prescribed dose. Suboxone treatment differs from these treatments in several important ways. Firstly, a prescription for suboxone can be obtained at a specially licensed physician's office and filled at any pharmacy. This means the patient does not need to be admitted to a hospital or make daily visits to a methadone clinic in order to receive their medication. Secondly, because suboxone is a mixture of naloxone and buprenorphine, a partial opiate agonist with a long duration of action, the potential for abuse and overdose are much less than with methadone. Thirdly, because buprenorphine is a partial opiate agonist, suboxone may be easier to taper off of than full opiate agonists like methadone.

About Intervention Treatment

Intervention Treatment, formed in 2007, is an internet resource offering help to those affected by drug and alcohol addiction. Intervention Treatment provides referrals to drug and alcohol rehabs, intervention services, suboxone treatment referrals, and general information regarding addiction and treatment.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains statements that may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Those statements include statements regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of the Company, and members of their management as well as the assumptions on which such statements are based. Prospective investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, and that actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements. Important factors currently known to management that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-statements include fluctuation of operating results, the ability to compete successfully and the ability to complete before-mentioned transactions. The company undertakes no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events or changes to future operating results.
Contacts

Intervention Treatment
William Donovan, Co-Founder, 949-267-4113
bj@interventiontreatment.com
www.interventiontreatment.com

Physician Practice Documentation Receives CCHIT Certification

2008-06-18T14:05:00.000-06:00

Dairyland Healthcare Solutions' Physician Practice Documentation Receives 2007 CCHIT Certification

Software Complies with 100 Percent of Updated 2007 Certification Criteria

GLENWOOD, Minn.-- June 18, 2008 --The Certification Commission for Healthcare Information Technology (CCHIT®) today announced that Dairyland Healthcare Solutions' Physician Practice Documentation (PPD), Version 9.0.0 is CCHIT Certified®, and meets the Commission's ambulatory electronic health record (EHR) criteria for 2007. Ambulatory EHRs are designed for physician offices and clinics where most Americans get their healthcare. CCHIT - an independent, nonprofit organization - is the Recognized Certification Body in the United States for certifying health information technology products.

In the second year of the program's operation, the criteria and testing have been significantly enhanced. The Commission added 96 criteria to the 151 original requirements from last year. As a CCHIT Certified product has been tested and passed inspection of 100 percent of a set of updated criteria for functionality, interoperability and security.

"For 2007, the Commission raised the bar from the previous year's criteria. Ambulatory EHRs now must include electronic prescribing, demonstrate an ability to receive lab results, and show enhanced patient safety, quality, and security features," said Mark Leavitt, M.D., Ph.D., chair, CCHIT. "Investment in 2007 certified ambulatory EHRs gives providers even more powerful tools to improve quality, safety and efficiency while protecting the privacy of health information."

The CCHIT Certified mark - a "seal of approval" for EHR products - provides the first consensus-based, government-recognized benchmark for ambulatory EHR products. By looking to products with the CCHIT Certified seal, physicians and other providers can reduce their risk in selecting an EHR product, allowing them to focus their evaluation on the special needs of their practices.

"We are delighted to receive CCHIT certification," said James Burgess, CEO of Dairyland. "The CCHIT review process is rigorous and essential to ensuring that technologies carrying this important certification meet the highest safety and quality standards. We are pleased that CCHIT recognizes Dairyland's high standards," he added.

CCHIT's certification compliance criteria and its design for a certification inspection process have been thoroughly researched, taking into account the state of the art of EHRs and available standards, and comparing certification processes in other industries and other countries. The inspection process is based on real-life medical scenarios designed to test products rigorously against the clinical needs of providers and the quality and safety needs of healthcare consumers and payers. One script, for example, recreates a scenario of an elderly man with poorly controlled diabetes, hypertension and other chronic conditions in order to test EHR functions such as potential adverse drug reactions, disease management and treatment plans.

About Dairyland Healthcare Solutions

Dairyland Healthcare Solutions is an award-winning healthcare information systems company that links essential information between small community hospitals and their healthcare delivery and business networks. Dairyland enables its hospital partners to deliver the highest level of patient care by providing the information infrastructure required to operate effectively in the dynamic and complex healthcare delivery environment. For almost three decades, Dairyland has partnered with leading community hospitals to help them improve efficiencies, enhance profitability and ensure patient safety by providing solutions to manage, integrate and access key financial, clinical and patient information. Dairyland is the only company to be awarded three consecutive "Best in KLAS" ratings in the Community Hospital Information Systems category. To learn more, visit: http://www.dhsnet.com.

About CCHIT

The Certification Commission for Healthcare Information Technology (CCHIT®) is an independent, nonprofit organization that has been named by the federal government as the Recognized Certification Body for health information technology. Its mission is to accelerate the adoption of health information technology by creating a credible, sustainable certification program. The certification requirements are based on widely accepted industry standards and involve the work of hundreds of expert volunteers and input from a variety of stakeholders throughout the health care industry. More information on CCHIT and CCHIT Certified® products is available at www.cchit.org.

"CCHIT®" and "CCHIT Certified®" are service marks of the Certification Commission for Healthcare Information Technology.

Contacts

Dairyland Healthcare Solutions
Tracey Schroeder, 612-787-3125
VP Marketing & Communications
tracey.schroeder@dhsnet.com
or
CCHIT
Sue Reber, 503-703-0813
sreber@cchit.org

Clinical Trial Findings Show Significant and Persistent Reduction in Blood Pressure

2008-06-18T08:36:00.000-06:00

Two-Year Clinical Trial Findings Show Significant and Persistent Reduction in Blood Pressure with CVRx® Rheos® Hypertension Therapy

Data Presented at Hypertension Berlin 2008 Congress; Pivotal Rheos Trial in Progress
Hypertension Berlin 2008

MINNEAPOLIS & BERLIN-- June 18, 2008 --The first available two-year data from the European clinical trial evaluating the Rheos® Hypertension (HT) System were presented today at Hypertension Berlin 2008. Developed by U.S.-based CVRx, Inc., the Rheos HT System is the only implantable medical device designed to control hypertension, or high blood pressure. Worldwide, hypertension is a leading and growing cause of heart and kidney disease, stroke and death. The Rheos HT System could provide a new treatment option for the millions of people who cannot control their hypertension with medications. The device activates the body's own system for regulating blood pressure.

"We are excited to see a sustained reduction in blood pressure after two years of Rheos HT Therapy - a major milestone in the evaluation of our novel treatment approach," said Nadim Yared, CVRx president and chief executive officer. "Hypertension is a complex condition, affecting multiple physiological functions. The early data on improved heart function and preserved kidney function also presented at this conference are encouraging, and we are hopeful Rheos HT Therapy may help prevent serious, costly conditions related to hypertension. Our Rheos Pivotal trial is assessing the safety and clinical efficacy of Rheos HT System and is well underway."

The clinical data from the Device-Based Therapy of Hypertension (DEBuT-HT) study (Abstract No. OS17/3) were presented at Hypertension Berlin 2008, a joint congress held in Berlin of the 18th Scientific Meeting of the European Society of Hypertension and the 22nd Scientific Meeting of the International Society of Hypertension. Of the 45 patients enrolled in this study, 16 patients from four European centers have completed two years of Rheos HT Therapy. Blood pressure measurements were taken in the clinic and after two years showed:

    * Systolic blood pressure was reduced by an average of 35 mmHg (191 mmHg vs.156 mmHg); and
    * Diastolic blood pressure was reduced by an average of 24 mmHg (116 mmHg vs. 92 mmHg).

Similar results were found at three months and one year of Rheos HT Therapy. Patients remained on background medical therapy during the trial. During the two-year study period, the average number of antihypertensive medications remained stable.

A drop in systolic blood pressure of at least 20 mmHg was achieved in 12 of the 16 patients (75 percent). The Rheos implants were well tolerated, and there were no unanticipated adverse events related to the system or procedure. Further information on these study results can be found on the CVRx Web site at www.cvrx.com.

Peter de Leeuw, professor of medicine and hypertension at the University of Maastricht in The Netherlands, is the leading enroller in the DEBuT-HT study. The 16 patients included in the two-year results were from the following clinical trial sites: the University Hospital Maastricht and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands; University Hospital, Inselspital Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Humboldt University Charité Campus Buch, Berlin; and Heart and Diabetes Center North Rhine Westphalia, Bad Oeynhausen, Germany.

Additional Rheos Data Presented at Hypertension 2008

Additional data from the DEBuT-HT study and U.S. Rheos feasibility study were presented in two poster sessions at Hypertension 2008. These studies showed early signs that the Rheos HT System can improve heart function and preserve kidney function.

    * Heart function was notably improved among the 16 patients who completed one year of Rheos HT Therapy (Abstract No. PS33/THU/24). Blood pressure was reduced significantly, and left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) significantly regressed. LVH, a process in which the heart becomes enlarged and does not work efficiently, increases the risk of heart attacks, heart failure and sudden cardiac death and regression of LVH reduces these risks.
    * The University of Maastricht studied the effects of the Rheos HT Therapy on kidney function (Abstract No. PS32/WED/63) among their 12 patients who received therapy for one year. In this group, the Rheos HT Therapy was shown to help preserve kidney function over this time period. High blood pressure increases the risk and progression of kidney disease.

U.S. Rheos Pivotal Trial in Progress

CVRx received investigational device exemption (IDE) approval from the FDA to begin the Rheos Pivotal Trial to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the Rheos HT System. The trial is enrolling 300 patients at multiple clinical sites in the United States and in Europe. Prospective patients can call (888) 8BP-RISK (827-7475) or visit www.bloodpressuretrial.com, to learn more about the clinical trial.

The Rheos HT System: Working with the Body's Own Mechanisms

The Rheos HT System uses CVRx patented Baroreflex Activation TherapyT (BATT) technology that is designed to electrically activate the carotid baroceptors, the body's natural blood pressure sensors. When the baroreceptors are activated, signals are sent through neural pathways to the brain and interpreted as a rise in blood pressure. The brain works to counteract this perceived rise in blood pressure by sending signals to other parts of the body (heart, blood vessels and kidneys) to lower high blood pressure.

The Rheos HT System includes the following components:

    * A small pulse generator that is implanted under the collar bone;
    * Two thin lead wires that are implanted at the left and right carotid arteries and connect to the pulse generator; and
    * The Rheos Programmer System, an external device used by doctors to non-invasively regulate the activation energy from the generator to the lead wires.

About Hypertension

Hypertension causes an estimated one in eight deaths worldwide.1 In the United States alone, high blood pressure affects approximately 73 million people.1 Approximately 25 percent of people with hypertension cannot control their high blood pressure, despite the use of multiple medications. 2, 3 Each incremental increase of 20 mmHg in systolic blood pressure or 10 mmHg in diastolic blood pressure above normal levels is associated with a two-fold increase in death rates from stroke, coronary heart disease and other vascular causes.

Editor's Note: Blood pressure is typically recorded as two numbers - the systolic pressure (top number) over the diastolic pressure (bottom number). The systolic pressure is the pressure of blood in the vessels when the heart contracts. Diastolic pressure is the pressure of the blood between heartbeats, when the heart is at rest and is refilling.

About CVRx, Inc.

CVRx, Inc., is a private company founded in 2001 and headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota U.S.A. Its senior management and technical teams have many years of experience commercializing implantable medical devices. For more information, visit www.cvrx.com.

1 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics. American Heart Association - 2008 Update.

2 Lancet 2002;360:1903-1913.

3 JAMA 2003;289:2560-2572.

CAUTION: CVRx Rheos System is an investigational device and is limited by Federal (or United States) law to investigational use only.

CVRx, Rheos, Baroreflex Activation Therapy and BAT are trademarks of CVRx, Inc.

© CVRx, Inc. 2008. All rights reserved.

Contacts

CVRx
John Brintnall, 763-416-2853
Chief Financial Officer
jbrintnall@cvrx.com
or
Mary McGrory-Usset, 651-308-8225
Corporate Communications
mmcgroryusset@comcast.net
or
Padilla Speer Beardsley:
Nancy Johnson, 612-455-1745, 612-812-7568 cell
njohnson@psbpr.com
or
Nick Banovetz, 612-455-1705, 651-815-5999 cell
nbanovetz@psbpr.com

Nursing Home Signs Contract with Patient Placement Systems

2008-06-15T14:38:00.000-06:00

Belle Maison Nursing Home Signs Three-Year Contract with Patient Placement Systems

Large Louisiana Nursing Home will use Web-based Referral Management System to optimize and manage patient referral and placement. Patient Placement Systems announced today that Belle Maison Nursing Home, a 179-bed nursing home and retirement care facility in Hammond, Louisiana, has signed a three-year contract to use the Patient Placement Referral Management System.

Atlanta, GA - January 22, 2008 -- Patient Placement Systems announced today that Belle Maison Nursing Home, a 179-bed nursing home and retirement care facility in Hammond, Louisiana, has signed a three-year contract to use the Patient Placement Referral Management System.

The Patient Placement Referral Management System enables nursing homes, home health agencies, hospices, rehabilitation facilities and other extended care organizations to automate the entire referral management process, efficiently tracking and managing all inbound patient referrals, as well as their associated medical records. Automating this traditionally manual and fax-based process gives facilities a unique opportunity to increase patient placements, better serve patients and referring facilities, enhance productivity, and gain data for better decision-making about their referral management process.

Belle Maison Nursing Home, winner of the 2007 Nursing Home Quality Initiative Achievement Award from the Louisiana Health Care Review, constantly seeks ways to improve processes and enhance quality of care. "The Referral Management System will not only help us place more patients, more efficiently; it will also give us a competitive advantage," says Administrator Paul Guitreau. Guitreau indicates that manual referral tracking processes can result in errors, problems and delays. The Referral Management System will enable Belle Maison to respond more quickly to referral sources, enhance staff productivity and have richer data for analysis and decision-making.

"With the Referral Management System, Belle Maison will save significant time and replace multiple manual processes. Furthermore, they'll have a new level of business intelligence regarding referral source, payor mix and other critical data," says Eric Christ, president of Patient Placement Systems. "And because the system was live in less than a week, they'll see benefits very quickly."

The Referral Management System improves visibility and efficiency by capturing all inbound patient referrals and medical documents through a HIPAA-compliant Web-based application, effectively eliminating the need for an admissions team fax machine. The Referral Management System includes reporting and analysis at every level - by location, by referral source, by user, by line of business, by payor, and more.

About Patient Placement Systems:
Patient Placement Systems automates the referral process at continuing care providers, hospitals, and payors. The Patient Placement Referral Management System and Discharge Referral System improve information flow and communication so each party involved in patient referral has the information they need, when they need it. Patient Placement Systems is a member of the Jackson Healthcare Solutions family of companies. For more information about Patient Placement Systems, visit www.PatientPlacement.com or call 877-748-6656.

Press Contact: Monique Ervin
Company Name: Patient Placement Systems
Phone: 877-748-6656
Website: www.PatientPlacement.com

Call for Better Sanitation Prompted By Lettuce E. coli Outbreak

2008-06-10T08:59:00.000-06:00

E. coli Outbreak Associated with Lettuce Prompts Call for Better Sanitation

MINNEAPOLIS-- June 09, 2008 --According to Pritzker | Ruohonen & Associates, P.A., ten cases of E. coli O157:H7 in the state of Washington have been associated with the consumption of lettuce. Based on interviews of those sickened, health officials believe the source of the outbreak is bagged, commercial romaine lettuce.

Six of the people sickened were Pierce County residents. Five of them had laboratory-confirmed cases of E. coli O157:H7. The sixth person had symptoms identical with those of the other five, but a lab test was not done to confirm E. coli O157:H7. The cases may be associated with a restaurant and an educational institution. Because the outbreak is deemed over, health officials are not releasing the names of either, but Internet accounts of the outbreak indicate that some of those sickened may have eaten salads at Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma.

Four of the people sickened were Thurston County residents. All four had laboratory-confirmed cases of E. coli O157:H7. Three of them attend Capital High School in Olympia and ate salads in the school cafeteria. The fourth person attends Thurgood Marshall Middle School in Olympia and ate a salad there.

"This is yet another example of contaminated lettuce causing illness," stated Pritzker. "At the bottom of every E. coli outbreak is bad sanitation. It is up to the lettuce industry to clean up its act and use good sanitation practices on every farm, every day."

Cattle are the principal source of E. coli O157:H7 infections. Cattle manure containing E. coli O157:H7 can contaminate water that flows through lettuce fields and that is used for irrigation, pesticide application, and/or washing lettuce. Therefore, it is imperative that lettuce not be planted near cattle operations.

In addition, Pritzker and other food safety advocates have been pushing for regulations requiring the lettuce industry to do the following: 1) frequently test irrigation water; 2) frequently test bags of lettuce and salad before they reach the consumer; 3) educate workers throughout the industry about the importance of hand washing and not coming to work if they are sick; 4) and prevent animals, both domestic and wild, from wandering on to lettuce fields.

Because a number of E. coli outbreaks have been linked to bagged lettuce and spinach, federal and state regulators should frequently inspect processing plants.

"The lettuce industry and state and federal governments have to work together to ensure the safety of lettuce. A mother should not have to worry if the salad she is serving her children will make them sick," stated Pritzker.

Pritzker | Ruohonen & Associates, P.A. is one of the few law firms in the United States that practices extensively in the area of foodborne illness litigation. The firm has collected millions of dollars on behalf of victims of E. coli outbreaks. For more information, visit http://www.pritzkerlaw.com or contact Fred Pritzker at (612) 338-0202. Pritzker | Ruohonen has offices are located at Plaza VII, Suite 2950, 45 South Seventh Street, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402

Contacts

Pritzker | Ruohonen & Associates, P.A.
Fred Pritzker, 612-338-0202

Grocery Shopping Network Selected to Increase the Power of Food & Drug Website

2008-06-09T12:59:00.001-06:00

Haggen, Inc. Selects Grocery Shopping Network to Increase the Power of Its TOP Food & Drug Website

Grocery Shopping Network Adds TOP Food & Drug stores to its Growing Network of Grocery Stores

MINNEAPOLIS-- June 09, 2008 --Grocery Shopping Network announces that Haggen, Inc., headquartered in Bellingham, Wash., has signed a contract to upgrade its website for its TOP Food & Drug stores with the latest technology available on the web for retail grocery stores, including industry leading personalization.

TOP Food & Drug currently has its weekly flyer online to view. The flyer will soon be upgraded to one-click to shopping list and recipe suggestions, including sale items with Grocery Shopping Network's online tools. Also being added will be an extensive recipe database, coupons, and recipe videos. Integrating all these features will give TOP Food & Drug and its guests a faster and more fun planning experience prior to visiting the grocery store.

CEO Andy Robinson, commented, "Haggen, Inc. will be a great addition to the Grocery Shopping Network, not only because Haggen is a forward-looking company, but because the company will now be able to improve service to its customers on a one-to-one level." Grocery Shopping Network will now have a wonderful presence in the Northwest quadrant of the United States. Andy continued by adding, "We are pleased to see the importance that grocery stores continue to put on the Internet and successfully leveraging the web as a primary communication medium."

About Haggen, Inc.

Haggen, Inc. is a family owned organization headquartered in Washington state since 1933. Today it owns and operates 17 TOP Food & Drug locations in Washington, 15 Haggen Food and Pharmacy locations in Washington and Oregon and a Larry's Market in Washington. The Haggen Corporation employs over 3,900 employees and is listed as one of the largest privately owned companies in Washington state.

About Grocery Shopping Network

Grocery Shopping Network provides grocery retailers' Web sites with a suite of proprietary software products that integrate shopping list building, recipes and meal planning with relevant, focused advertising content. GSN (www.groceryshopping.net) brings together the Web and in-store supermarket shopping experience. A GSN-powered site enables consumers to seamlessly shop their store, be presented with sales and promotions in the context of the items they are planning to purchase, access and save recipes for the items they plan to purchase, plan meals and utilize the many discount offers (including coupons) made available by brand manufacturers.
Contacts

Grocery Shopping Network
Albin Andolshek, 612-238-4942

Victims of Asbestos Exposure Should Call the Mesothelioma Victims Center

2008-06-08T19:49:00.001-06:00

Mesothelioma Victims And All Victims of Asbestos Exposure Should Call the Mesothelioma Victims Center First For Free Honest Advise & Help

Why should victims of mesothelioma or their families call the Mesothelioma Victims Center First? According to Americas Watchdog, "its pretty simple, we will tell them the truth about treatment options, lawyers, Social Security, and everything else they need to know and our service is free". The Mesothelioma Victims Center was created to assist all US victims of Mesothelioma. Americas Watchdog has initiated this very complete free service because there is literally nothing close to this type of service in the United States, and because this type of service is sorely needed by Mesothelioma victims and their families. The Mesothelioma Victims Center was created to assist victims & their families in every way possible. Victims who served in the US Navy are especially encouraged to contact the group at 866-714-6466.

May 27, 2008 -- The Mesothelioma Victims Center is a free service designed to assist all victims of Mesothelioma, or to assist the families of victims who have this disease. What makes this service unique? According to Americas Watchdog,"our service to victims or their families is free. Mesothelioma is a rare, and lethal form of cancer related to asbestos exposure. Americas Watchdog never realized that there was no safety net for victims, to get help from the government or VA. They did not know how difficult it might be to get veterans benefits or social security benefits. Americas Watchdog also discovered that it is critical for victims of this lethal disease to get proper legal representation. They have designed the Mesothelioma Victims Center to be the national advocacy center for the victims and family members of Mesothelioma.Their service is free. The web site is located at http://MesotheliomaVictimsCenter.com.

Very Important note: According to the Mesothelioma Victims Center, "You do not want a personal injury attorney with little, to no Mesothelioma experience taking on a case, unless they have lots of experience with mesothelioma. This is especially true of US Navy veterans, who were exposed in a US naval vessel engine room. If you, or a loved one has been diagnosed with Mesothelioma, there are thousands of law firms that say they can take the case. The problem; there are only a handful of law firms in the US that can do a superior job."

According to Americas Watchdog, "Individuals who have been diagnosed with Mesothelioma, or their family members should call the Mesothelioma Victims Center first, for honest and straight forward advice at 866-714-6466". The Mesothelioma Center is all about honest, and helpful advice for all Mesothelioma victims. The Mesothelioma Victims Center web site is located at Http://MesotheliomaVictimsCenter.com.

The Mesothelioma Victims Center's services include:

* Assisting the victims of Mesothelioma in obtaining Social Security permanent disability payments

* If the victim is a veteran and was exposed to asbestos during military duty, we will work with the victim and his/her family in obtaining veterans disability and health care benefits.

* We will assist the family in getting the best possible health care options

* We will assist the victim in getting legal representation.

* We will assist the victim and their family in getting counseling on a wide variety of topics that arise from this disease.

A victim of Mesothelioma or their family can call the group any time for help, assistance and advice anytime at 866-714-6466.

Who Can Get Mesothelioma? Individuals exposed to asbestos. As Follows

* Individuals who served in the US Navy. Especially Navy personnel who served in or around naval ship engine rooms.

* Members of the US Army, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard.

* Naval ship yard workers

* Oil refinery workers

* Ship yard workers

* Automotive repair specialists

* Construction workers

* Plumbers

* Demolition contractors

Important note to doctors and medical staff: Please tell your patients about the Mesothelioma Victims Center.

Because no other group is providing this full range of services, and because victims and their families need assistance in these areas, Americas Watchdog is doing all of this at no charge, because its the right thing to do. Americas Watchdog's Mesothelioma Victims Center web site is located at http://MesotheliomaVictimsCenter.com. Anyone wishing more information can call the Mesothelioma Victims Center anytime at 866-714-6466. Health care workers or physicians are encouraged to tell your patients about the Mesothelioma Victims Center.

Americas Watchdog and its Mesothelioma Victims Center are all about taking care of precious souls in need, and corporate responsibility.

Contact Information
THOMAS MARTIN
Americas Watchdog
Http://MesotheliomaVictimsCenter.Com
866-714-6466

Physician Office Program for COPD and Asthma Management

2008-06-03T22:26:00.001-06:00

Angeion Corporation Launches Physician Office Program for COPD and Asthma Management

Company to Help Physicians Earlier Diagnose Respiratory Diseases that Affect More Than 25 Million Americans

ST. PAUL, Minn.-- June 02, 2008 --Angeion Corporation (NASDAQ: ANGN) today announced that it has launched its Physician Office Program for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma management. Through aggressive, targeted marketing efforts, Angeion will work to increase physician awareness of COPD and the company's non-invasive cardiorespiratory systems that facilitate early diagnosis-and treatment-of the condition.

COPD is characterized by progressive obstruction of the airflow of the lungs and increased shortness of breath-which is often not diagnosed until after some lung capacity is already lost. Diseases included under the umbrella of COPD include emphysema, chronic bronchitis, bronchiectasis and refractory asthma.

According to the COPD Foundation, an individual dies of COPD every 4 minutes in the United States. Currently, COPD is the fourth leading cause of death, and is expected to be the third leading cause by 2020. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that COPD and asthma affect more than 25 million Americans and result in more than 20 million physician office visits every year. Moreover, another 25 million Americans are believed to be either undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. Worldwide, an estimated 600 million people suffer from COPD.

"COPD is insidious, and it's affecting more and more people every year," said Rodney A. Young, Angeion's president and chief executive officer. "To date, Angeion's chief focus has been on bringing our cardiorespiratory technology and expertise to the hospital market. With today's announcement, we are broadening our approach across the healthcare continuum to reach more physicians who may see COPD patients. Through our Physician Office Program, it's our goal to work with the medical community to better educate and equip all physicians, regardless of specialty, to quickly and accurately diagnose the condition so that it can be treated earlier-resulting in more lives saved and less financial stress on today's healthcare system."

According to Young, Angeion's Physician Office Program reflects the company's commitment to early COPD detection. Specific components of the program include:

    * A significant marketing focus, redirecting existing resources to educate and inform physicians, from pulmonologists to general practitioners and internists, about COPD and Angeion's unique diagnostic product offering;
    * A comprehensive suite of educational and sales collateral materials; and
    * Cost-effective equipment leasing programs

Angeion's cardiorespiratory systems, and particularly its recently introduced Medical Graphics Platinum EliteT Series plethysmograph, provide the ability to effectively measure pulmonary function in the diagnosis of airway diseases, including COPD. In doing so, physicians benefit from:

    * Improved patient care-complete pulmonary diagnostic capability
    * Enhanced practice management-effectively and timely management of patients increases patient retention; and
    * Easy, rapid testing-physicians are able to perform a complete pulmonary function study in approximately 20 minutes.

Said Young, "Through our Physician Office Program we'll heighten awareness of COPD and give physicians the tools to quickly and effectively diagnose the disease, provide a new growth catalyst for the company, and most important, help save more lives."

About Angeion Corporation

Founded in 1986, Angeion Corporation acquired Medical Graphics Corporation in December 1999. Medical Graphics develops, manufactures and markets non-invasive cardiorespiratory diagnostic systems that are sold under the MedGraphics (www.medgraphics.com) and New Leaf (www.newleaffitness.com) brand and trade names. These cardiorespiratory diagnostic systems have a wide range of applications in healthcare as well as health and fitness. The Company's products are sold internationally through distributors and in the United States through a direct sales force that targets heart and lung specialists located in hospitals, university-based medical centers, medical clinics and physicians' offices, pharmaceutical companies, medical device manufacturers, clinical research organizations, health and fitness clubs, personal training studios, and other exercise facilities. For more information about Angeion, visit www.angeion.com.

The discussion above contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements by their nature involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Our actual results may differ materially depending on a variety of factors including: (i) our ability to successfully operate our business including our ability to develop, improve, and update our cardiorespiratory diagnostic products and successfully sell these products under the MedGraphics and New Leaf Fitness brand names into existing and new markets, (ii) our ability to establish our cost structure at a level that is appropriate to our near to mid-term revenue expectations that will enable us to increase revenues and profitability as opportunities develop, (iii) our ability to achieve constant margins for our products and consistent and predictable operating expenses in light of variable revenues from our clinical research customers, (iv) our ability to effectively manufacture and ship products in required quantities to meet customer demands, (v) our ability to expand our international revenue through our distribution partners and our Milan, Italy representative branch office; (vi) our ability to successfully defend ourselves from product liability claims related to our cardiorespiratory diagnostic products and claims associated with our prior cardiac stimulation products, (vii) our ability to protect our intellectual property, (viii) our ability to develop and maintain an effective system of internal controls and procedures and disclosure controls and procedures, and (ix) our dependence on third-party vendors.

Additional information with respect to the risks and uncertainties faced by the Company may be found in, and the above discussion is qualified in its entirety by, the other risk factors that are described from time to time in the Company's Securities and Exchange Commission reports, including the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended October 31, 2007.
Contacts

Angeion Corporation
William J. Kullback, 651-766-3492
SVP & Chief Financial Officer

$250 Million Damages in Boston Scientific Patent Case Awarded To Medtronic

2008-05-28T09:18:00.000-06:00

Medtronic Awarded $250 Million Damages in Patent Case against Boston Scientific

Federal jury in Marshall, Texas, finds that Boston Scientific Corporation infringed three patents owned by Medtronic

MINNEAPOLIS-- May 27, 2008 --Medtronic, Inc. (NYSE: MDT) today announced that a federal jury found that Boston Scientific Corporation has infringed three patents owned by Medtronic, and awarded Medtronic $250 million in damages.

Medtronic sued Boston Scientific in 2006 asserting that Boston's Taxus Express2, Express2, Liberte, Maverick, Maverick2, and Quantum Maverick products infringed the Fitzmaurice and Anderson catheter patents owned by Medtronic. The trial began on Friday, May 16, 2008.

The Fitzmaurice patents cover angioplasty catheters with narrowed distal ends, which improve the deliverability of angioplasty catheters. The Anderson patent covers semicompliant angioplasty balloons. The Anderson balloons provide sufficient strength to withstand repeated inflations allowing custom vessel sizing.

About Medtronic

Medtronic, Inc. (www.medtronic.com), headquartered in Minneapolis, is the global leader in medical technology - alleviating pain, restoring health, and extending life for millions of people around the world.

Any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties such as those described in Medtronic's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 27, 2007. Actual results may differ materially from anticipated results.

Contacts

Medtronic, Inc.
Public Relations
Marybeth Thorsgaard, 763-505-2644
or
Investor Relations
Jeff Warren, 763-505-2696

Johns Hopkins Health Alerts Offers Heart-Smart Advice For Rheumatoid Arthritis

2008-05-27T15:47:00.001-06:00

Rheumatoid Arthritis and Your Heart: Johns Hopkins Health Alerts Offers Heart-Smart Advice

Johns Hopkins Health Alerts reports on the latest findings on the causes of rheumatoid arthritis, and how it can affect your heart, leading to increased risk of heart attack and stroke, and thus decreased life expectancy.

New York, NY - March 18, 2008 -- In a recent issue of The Johns Hopkins Arthritis Bulletin, Johns Hopkins specialists reported on the latest research regarding the link between rheumatoid arthritis and heart health.

With rheumatoid arthritis, the inflammation that damages joints also takes a toll on the heart. Johns Hopkins specialists offer bottom line advice on how to adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle to combat the effects of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and its accompanying inflammation.

BEING HEART-SMART WITH RA
People with rheumatoid arthritis understandably focus on caring for their joints. But their most serious health risk involves their heart.

Compared to the general population, rheumatoid arthritis patients have a significantly increased risk of heart attack and stroke, and a shorter life expectancy.

RA AND YOUR HEART: THE RISKS
Here are some of the findings from recent studies about the link between rheumatoid arthritis and heart disease:

* Heart attacks are twice as common among women with rheumatoid arthritis as among those without the disease.
* Atherosclerosis ("hardening of the arteries") starts early and progresses more rapidly in people with rheumatoid arthritis.
* Carotid artery blockages (a risk factor for stroke) are three times more common in people with rheumatoid arthritis than in people without the disease (44% vs. 15%).
* Cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke, occur about 10 years earlier in people with rheumatoid arthritis.
* Mortality is higher among rheumatoid arthritis patients after a first heart attack.
* Blood vessel damage is often already apparent at the time of rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis.
* Heart attacks in rheumatoid arthritis patients are more likely to be silent or to occur without the typical symptoms, and they more often result in sudden cardiac death.
* Congestive heart failure (weakening of the heart's pumping ability) is more common among people with rheumatoid arthritis.
Researchers have identified several links between rheumatoid arthritis and cardiovascular disease. Inflammation is believed to be the most important of these.

THE ROLE OF INFLAMMATION IN ATHEROSCLEROSIS
Cardiologists now understand that inflammation plays a crucial role in the onset of atherosclerosis. They believe that an injury to the inner lining of the arteries (the endothelium) triggers an immune response, sending immune system cells rushing to repair the damage.

THE EFFECTS OF CHRONIC INFLAMMATION ON YOUR ARTERIES
But in chronic inflammatory states such as rheumatoid arthritis, the immune response doesn't shut off after the injury heals. The accumulating immune system cells attract deposits of cholesterol, blood platelets, cellular debris, and calcium, which clump together to form plaque.

As plaque deposits grow, they restrict blood flow through the artery. If the plaque ruptures, clots can break away and travel to the heart or brain, where they may cause a heart attack or a stroke.

BOTTOM LINE ADVICE: WHAT CAN YOU DO TO STAY HEART-SMART EVEN IF YOU HAVE RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
The relationship between rheumatoid arthritis and the heart is complex, and rheumatologists still have a great deal to learn about how to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease among people who have rheumatoid arthritis.

For now, it's important to do everything possible to reduce the traditional risk factors for heart disease and stroke:
smoking, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.

Getting regular exercise and losing extra pounds (even a 5-10% weight reduction is beneficial) will help your joints as well as your heart. Monitor your blood pressure and have your cholesterol levels checked regularly.

Also, ask your physician about the possibility of taking a low-dose aspirin each day to reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease.

In addition, the cholesterol-lowering medications known as statins--atorvastatin (Lipitor) and others--not only help the heart, but also have modest beneficial effects on rheumatoid arthritis-related inflammation. If your doctor hasn't already suggested a statin drug for your heart health, you might ask about it.

This information is exceprted from The Johns Hopkins Arthritis Bulletin:
Johns Hopkins Arthritis Bulletin

Johns Hopkins Health Alerts publishes free email newsletters on arthritis at:
Johns Hopkins Arthritis Health Alerts

And on heart health at:
Johns Hopkins Heart Health Alerts

For the latest research on Heart Health and Heart Attack Prevention, see the new 2008 Johns Hopkins White Paper: Heart Attack Prevention at: Johns Hopkins White Paper Heart Attack Prevention

To get a copy of the free special report "Johns Hopkins 7 Keys to Reduce Cholesterol," please visit:
Johns Hopkins 7 Keys to Reduce Cholesterol

Press Contact: JOAN MULLALLY
Company Name: Johns Hopkins Health Alerts
Phone: 917-640-4362
Website: http://www.johnshopkinshealthalerts.com

Should Mesothelioma Victims Call A Mesothelioma Victims Center?

2008-05-26T13:46:00.000-06:00

Mesothelioma Victims Should Call Americas Watchdog's Mesothelioma Victims Center

If you are a victim of Mesothelioma or a family member friend of a victim Americas Watchdog is there for you. Americas Watchdog has created the Mesothelioma Victims Center as a free service to victims or family members of victims, of a rare form of cancer called Mesothelioma. Americas Watchdog has initiated this very complete free service because there was literally nothing close to this type of service in the United States and because this type of service is sorely needed by Mesothelioma victims and their families. The Mesothelioma Victims Center was created to assist victims & their families in every way possible

April 21, 2008 -- Americas Watchdog has created the most wonderful service for victims or family members of victims of Mesothelioma. Until a family member was diagnosed with Mesothelioma, Americas Watchdog had never heard of this disease or knew much about it. Mesothelioma is a rare and lethal form of cancer. Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos. The group never realized that there was no safety net for victims, to get help from the government. They did not know how difficult it might be to get veterans benefits or social security benefits. Americas Watchdog also discovered that it is critical for victims of this lethal disease to get proper legal representation. They have designed the Mesothelioma Victims Center to be the national advocacy center for the victims and family members of Mesothelioma.Their service is free. The web site is located at http://MesotheliomaVictimsCenter.com.

Their services include:
* Assisting the victims obtain Social Security permanent disability payments
* If the victim is a veteran and was exposed to asbestos during military duty, we will work with the victim and his/her family in obtaining veterans disability and health care benefits.
* We will assist the family in getting the best possible health care options
* We will assist the victim in getting legal representation.
* We will assist the victim and their family in getting counseling on a wide variety of topics that arise from this disease.
A victim of Mesothelioma or their family can call the group any time at 866-714-6466.

Who Can Get Mesothelioma? Individuals exposed to asbestos. As Follows
* Individuals who served in the US Navy. Especially Navy personnel who served in or around naval ship engine rooms.
* Members of the US Army, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard.
* Naval ship yard workers
* Ship yard workers
* Automotive repair specialists
* Construction workers
* Plumbers
* Demolition contractors

Because no other group is providing this full range of services and because victims and their families need assistance in these areas, Americas Watchdog is doing this at no charge because its the right thing to do. Americas Watchdog's Mesothelioma Victims Center web site is located at Http://MesotheliomaVictimsCenter.Com . Any one wishing more information can call the Mesothelioma Victims Center anytime at 866-714-6466.

Americas Watchdog and its Mesothelioma Victims Center are all about taking care of precious souls in need and corporate responsibility.

Press Contact: THOMAS MARTIN
Company Name: Americas Watchdog
Phone: 866-714-6466
Website: Http://MesotheliomaVictimsCenter.Com

Consumers Take Control of Health Insurance Costs With Health Insurance Agency's Help

2008-05-22T20:00:00.001-06:00

North Carolina Health Insurance Agency Help Consumers Take Control of Health Insurance Cost

Business, Economy, Finances, Banking & Insurance

Press release from: nchealthbenefits.com
PR Agency: Adviatech Corp

21.05.2008 - (openPR) - Many North Carolina health insurance consumers would love to lower their premiums, but are frightened by the idea of higher deductibles leading to financial problems in the event of an accident or illness. It can seem pointless to save money on premiums each month when those savings can be wiped out by one medical event.
For consumers in this situation, McLeod Insurance Agency, LLC., is pleased to offer access to Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (R)'s BlueOptions Health Savings Account (SM) Over three million consumers nationwide have already taken advantage of programs like this one, which couples a low-premium, high-deductible health insurance plan with a tax-free savings account.

These health savings accounts offer insurance consumers tax deductions based on their yearly contributions to their medical savings account(up to $2900 yearly for individuals and $5800 yearly for families), tax-free investment earnings, and tax-free withdrawals for medical expenses. BlueOptions HA'S (SM) also enable families and individuals to grow savings that can be used to cover procedures and preventive measures that are sometimes neglected by typical health insurance policies. Two additional benefits conferred by HSAs are the liberty to choose where and whom to visit for medical procedures, and the portability of a health insurance plan that follows the insured from job to job, plan to plan, and state to state.
Consumers taking advantage of BlueOptions HSAs (SM) enjoy many of the same benefits associated with a traditional health insurance plan: prescription coverage, child coverage, preventive care, and a nationwide network of qualified providers. Those who choose BlueOptions (SM) have the added bonus of tax-advantaged payments and withdrawals and the relief of greatly reduced premiums (up to 50% in many cases).

BlueOptions HSAs (SM) are also available for business environments, enabling large businesses the freedom to cut costs and small businesses the potential to offer employer-paid health insurance for the first time.
To lean more visit: www.nchealthbenefits.com

Adviatech Corp., PR for nchealthbenefits.com
9280 Bay Plaza Blvd Suite 706
Tampa, FL 33619
1.813.600.3017

NChealthbenefits.com offers health insurance in North Carolina. Their preferred North Carolina Health Insurance provider is Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (R).
http://openpr.de/news/45118/North-Carolina-Health-Insurance
-Agency-Help-Consumers-Take-Control-of-Health-Insurance-Cost.html

Mesothelioma Blog Reports on Man Fired for Reporting Asbestos Cleanup

2008-05-21T14:05:00.000-06:00

LegalView Mesothelioma Blog Reports on Whistleblower Who Was Allegedly Fired for Reporting Improper Asbestos Cleanup to Authorities

LegalView recently updated its mesothelioma blog to include reports of a whistleblower being fired after he reported improper asbestos cleanup. The worker who refused to sign off on the demolition of the school was dismissed from his job duties permanently after he reported the improper procedure cleanup to officials.

Denver, CO - April 18, 2008 -- LegalView, the number one resource for everything legal on the Web, recently updated its mesothelioma blog with news of the firing of an alleged whistleblower who attempted to report improper asbestos cleanup of a local high school. The city worker was part of a crew that was to demolition an old schoolhouse. The worker allegedly told city managers that the schoolhouse was filled with asbestos and would be hazardous if improper asbestos removal procedures were not followed. However, after the worker refused to sign off on the demolition and spoke out, he was fired, according to reports.

Asbestos is a hazardous chemical that is often found in insulation of many older buildings including government buildings, offices, homes, apartments, universities and schools. It is derived of vermiculite, which was heavily mined early on in the 20th century throughout the world. Asbestos was revered for its qualities of being cost efficient and its ability to insulate sufficiently without catching on fire as easily as other insulations. However, it was discovered that breathing in asbestos fibers and dust caused a deadly form of lung cancer to develop. Additionally, areas that currently contain asbestos must follow strict procedures and methods from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for removal, otherwise asbestos fibers will likely be released into the air and contaminate surrounding areas and individuals. Those who feel they have been previously exposed to asbestos fibers should contact a mesothelioma lawyer for immediate assistance on building a case.

Mesothelioma cancer can take years to develop and is incurable. It is often misdiagnosed, as symptoms of mesothelioma cancer are similar to many other illnesses. Individuals who have contracted mesothelioma should speak with an experienced medical attorney and receive a consultation on a potential mesothelioma lawsuit. To learn more about this recent mesothelioma blog posting as well as additional up-to-date news, reports and information on recent mesothelioma jury verdicts, visit http://mesothelioma.legalview.com/.

In addition to the extensive mesothelioma information portal, LegalView offers information on an assortment of other legal issues that may disrupt the lives of millions of Americans. Information on issues such as pharmaceutical investigations, including the latest Singulair recall, preventable conditions like Erb's Palsy, diseases, illnesses, accidents, chemical exposure, employment discrimination, etc.

LegalView even provides news on the most recent traumatic brain injury treatments, available through LegalView's Web site. Also on the brain injury site, readers can find information on what may be involved with filing a brain injury lawsuit.

On the Singulair practice area, readers will be able to access the latest news on the prescription drug, which had been under investigation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) after reports began to surface about Singulair side effects that can allegedly include moodiness, suicidal behaviors and thoughts.

Additionally, using the Erb's Palsy information portal will provide victims and their families insight into the cause of their condition as well as opportunities for developing an Erb's Palsy lawsuit for potential monetary compensation to help pay for costly medical bills commonly associated with this condition. Erb's Palsy can be a debilitating condition and is usually preventable. It is associated with birth-canal complications that have occurred when an infant's shoulders or head became lodged, causing damage to the nerve system controlling arm movement. While Erb's Palsy often can clear on its own through time, many individuals still require physical therapy and many will need surgery to fix their condition. Those who suffer from this disease are advised to use LegalView's site to easily be referred to a qualified Erb's Palsy lawyer.

About LegalView:
LegalView.com is a public service brought to you by Legal WebTV Network, LLC, a Limited Liability Corporation created by a group of the nation's most highly respected law firms: Anapol Schwartz; Brent Coon and Associates; Burg Simpson; Cohen, Placitella and Roth; James F. Humphreys and Associates; Lopez McHugh; and Thornton and Naumes. For more information on the accomplishments and track records of LegalView.com's superior sponsoring law firms and to get in touch with LegalView attorneys, visit LegalView at www.LegalView.com.

Press Contact: Katie Kelley
Company Name: LegalView
Phone: 720-771-3246
Website: http://mesothelioma.legalview.com