Health Care Buzz Today

Reform, Pay Cuts to Widen Gap Between Rich and Poor Hospitals. Analysts say physicians also could end up winners and losers, depending on who is affiliated with the larger health system.

Reform, Pay Cuts to Widen Gap Between Rich and Poor Hospitals. Analysts say physicians also could end up winners and losers, depending on who is affiliated with the larger health system.

Vermont Issues “Bath Salts” Chemicals Ban. Vermont is attempting to combat the spread of synthetic drugs known as “bath salts” by banning 2 chemicals mephedrone and methylenedioxypyrovalerone commonly used to make them. These stimulants can induce paranoia, hallucinations, and increased heart rate and blood pressure.

Senators Question Use of Psych Drugs in Nursing Homes. Two high-ranking senators have urged the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to examine potential over-prescribing of atypical antipsychotics to nursing home residents

Business Travelers Pack Extra Pounds, Insomnia, Stress. Being a road warrior may be good for your career, but can be bad for your health. Too many restaurant meals, lack of sleep, inadequate exercise and the stress of the hectic schedule can harm the body beyond just putting on pounds, scientists say.

New Rural Jobs Initiative Includes HIT. New healthcare IT jobs are part of the Jobs Initiatives for Rural America announced by President Obama. The plan includes making HHS loans available to 1,300 Critical Access Hospitals so they can recruit additional staff and implement health IT.