U.S. sees 10 million more H1N1 vaccine doses next week

From Reuters: Five drug companies are now increasing production of the vaccine for the H1N1 swine flu, and 10 million more doses are expected next week, Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said on Saturday.

ED’s: Efficient or Wasteful?

From Dr. Brenner, via Symtym (Twitter): I have seen a lot of criticism of ERs lately. The new House Bill for healthcare reform introduces ways to reduce crowding and boarding in the ERs, and better prepare them for disasters like pandemics and Katrina-type travesties. But they also put the focus on reducing ER use, as [...]

Flu 911 Taxi

From WALB: Ed. Posted for the bolded quote… follow the link and read the story for important context. Paramedics would still respond to 911 calls and examine every patient, but would not automatically take everyone to the hospital. “We’ll actually advise them, ‘Hey, you don’t need to go to the hospital. We’re not going to [...]

School nurse found passed out at school

From WALB: A nurse at a Florida middle school was found passed out inside the school with a bottle of prescription painkillers. Some parents at school say they’re concerned that this incident could mean kids at the school had access to the drugs. The nurse has not been charged with any crime and documents show [...]

Press Release: Nation’s Emergency Physicians Laud Emergency Care Provisions in New House Health Care Reform Bill

From ACEP: Although many provisions in the new House health care reform bill are supportive of the nation’s emergency patients, the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) today said the bill contains language about reducing unnecessary ER use, perpetuating a pervasive myth that even federal data show are inaccurate. “The new House bill contains many [...]