Wednesday, November 26, 2008

The American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging is creating quite a stir. The organization just released a report that fillets the nation's nursing home inspection system. To most providers, the contents will not come as much of a surprise. Nor will AAHSA's call for for a complete overhaul. While the study contains many laudable recommendations, it is unlikely to drive much in the way of change. Notably missing from the task force that compiled the report is representation from consumer groups or the government. Given that omission, the report is not likely to do much more than galvanize providers' views.

AssurePro is a full-featured system designed specifically for the long-term care environment. The product offers a 24-hour reminder to conduct daily control solution testing. Other features include a strip release button, backlight display, top-of-the-meter strip port, hypo warning and an easy-to-use grip.

The Exergen TemporalScanner, an infrared thermometer that reads body temperature in just two seconds, recently ranked well in a New Jersey study. Fully 86% of the nurses participating in the study found the product "extremely favorable."

Direct Supply announced that it now sells BladderScan. The product provides accurate, noninvasive bladder volume measurements to help create retraining plans and toileting schedules for residents. The product also reduces the need for catheterizations, and helps avoid F-tag 315 citations.

American Dryer Corporation announced it had recently secured up to $300 million in capital funding. The infusion will help the firm make strategic improvements, including possible acquisitions.

Increasing oil prices, growing demand for raw materials, a weakening U.S. dollar and other factors are driving up costs associated with making and transporting medical equipment, according to a report for the Health Industry Distributors Association. Copies of the full report are available from HIDA.

EnduraCare Therapy Management recently announced the appointment of Jennifer Berryhill to its business development unit. Berryhill will help the firm define and execute its trade show practices.