NEW IMAGE FOR HMOs?
Blue Cross of California is putting a new spin on performance," at least when it comes to its doctors under contract at HMOs in the state. Under a new plan physicians will be given bonus checks -- not for their ability to serve the most clients in the shortest time for the least cost -- but for their ability to get "good marks" from their patients. The care provider confirms that financial incentives being offered to doctors to hold down costs have been much criticized by those wanting changes in the level of care at HMOs around the country. While it is not known what the change in criteria will do to the bottom line, it is assumed that it will help morale and bolster the sagging image of the healthcare providers.
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ALZHEIMER'S VACCINE PROGRESSING
Attempts to develop an anti-Alzheimer's disease vaccine have taken a giant step with the completion of the first stage of experimental trials. CNN.com says that scientists report good results from phase one of their testing means a second level of trials will soon be undertaken. Alzheimer's is a degenerative disease of the brain that eventually leads a person into an irreversible "fog." The recent deteriorating condition of former president Ronald Reagan has brought new focus to the ailment. The vaccine, AN-1792, was tested on 100 patients in the U.K. in recent trials conducted by Elan Pharmaceuticals.
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