Software manufacturer Emissary Technologies, LLC has changed its name to CareRight Technologies, the company announced. The new name better reflects the firm's corporate culture, said Chief Technology Officer Mona Gamboa. It also reinforces the company's "focus and attention on bringing innovative tools to the growing healthcare technology information arena," she added.

Proteus Biomedical and Lloydspharmacy announced they are joining forces to develop an innovative medication compliance system. The Helius system will combine sensor-enabled tablets, a sensor patch worn on the body and a mobile health application and information service. As a result, caregivers will be able to monitor whether medication regimens are being adhered to.

TapeRelief is a topical cream that provides a barrier between human skin and medical tape and adhesives. This innovation can replace multiple products commonly used for wound care and skin protection, according to its manufacturer. "We continue to discover more and more applications for TapeRelief, including ostomy settings where it can prevent serious conditions arising from peristomal skin excoriation, mechanical irritation, allergy and sensitivity," said Athena Koler, a company spokesperson.

Detecto's Model 475 chair scale features sturdy steel construction and lift-away armrests for patient assurance and precision weighing. Developed to ensure patient safety and comfort as well as to reduce weighing time, the American-made scale is portable and offers easy side or front access. Measurements are available in pounds or pounds/kilos. Easy-to-read weigh beams are readable from both the front and back. The scale comes fully assembled and ready for use.

SDC recently introduced its 350 Narrow Line EmLock. The product has a 1,200-pound holding force. Unobtrusive design blends into narrow frame openings. Plus, the 350 EmLock is a direct equivalent and retrofits the discontinued Locknetics magforce 350+ with identical mounting template, physical dimensions, appearance and features, according to the firm.

OnShift recently secured $3 million in Series B financing, the web-based staff scheduling and shift management software company announced. OnShift's revenues increase by more than 400% last year, according to the firm.

Basic American Medical Products earned 'Elite Supplier' distinction during the 8th Annual LTC LINK Meetings. The award is given to top-scoring suppliers. Firms are rated for their ability to be consultative, innovative, and responsive to providers' specific needs. "This seal identifies Basic American Medical Products as a progressive thought leader in long-term care and senior living, and as an organization that understands how to build partnerships with clients," said Bailey Beeken, LINK Conference Director and vice president for Lincoln Healthcare Events.

ReGear Life Sciences, Inc. has announced that James V. McKeon has joined ReGear's Board of Directors. McKeon is managing partner for Valentine Associates LLC, a consulting firm. "Jim brings an impressive track record of operational and financial success in senior care that will help to further refine how we best serve the market," said Jeff Swoveland, the firm's CEO.

Thomas Stieritz has joined Omnicare, the company announced. He serves as senior vice president and general manager of its excelleRx division. excelleRx is a leading provider of palliative care medication management and pharmacy distribution services for end-of-life patients. He will report to Nitin Sahney, executive vice president and president of Omnicare's Specialty Care Group. "Tom's extensive understanding of pharmacy operations and his innovative approach to process improvement make him a natural choice to lead excelleRx," Sahney said.

Omnicare's bid to take over rival PharMerica has hit another snag: The Federal Trade Commission has filed suit. The legal action asserts the merged companies would control 57% of the pharmacy services market in long-term care. The suit adds that competition would suffer and Medicare-covered drug prices would likely rise. PharMerica said it supports the FTC's lawsuit. Omnicare currently owns more than 200 long-term care pharmacies in 44 states; PharMerica owns 97 pharmacies in 43 states. Omnicare first made a public offer to buy PharMerica in September, which the latter quickly rebuffed.