Doctor strike over strict cap heralds new era in Canada

Article Abstract:

Physicians in British Columbia are striking to protest a spending cap that was passed in spite of requests for mediation. Physicians are taking turns in closing their offices for a few days at a time. The British Columbia Medical Assn reports that patients are being referred to alternate providers, and many elective procedures are being postponed. Observers in other provinces and in the United States wonder whether Canada's government health system will discard its traditional collective bargaining with physicians.

Physicians, Medical professions, Social policy, Labor relations, British Columbia

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Procedure cuts stays but still may increase health costs

Article Abstract:

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy, a popular new procedure for removing gall bladders, may reduce worker recovery time and increase savings for employers, but the cost of technology needed for the procedure may offset savings from reduced hospital stays and time off work. And since the procedure takes longer, operating room charges and surgeon fees are higher than they are for open cholecystectomy. The benefit of laparoscopy to patients may also be bittersweet since many insurers are refusing to pay extra for it.

Economic aspects, Cholecystectomy, Laparoscopy, Gallbladder

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Boom in surgery for Parkinson's raises concerns

Article Abstract:

Robert Iacono and some others are characterizing pallidotomy, a demanding and risky neurosurgical procedure, as a revolutionary treatment for Parkinson's disease. Iacono has performed the surgery 500 times. But some experts, such as physician Jerrold Vitek, believe that pallidotomy has not undergone enough research. Vitek is heading an Emory University study of the procedure. High-profile media coverage has led many patients to request a pallidotomy.

Health Care and Social Assistance, HEALTH SERVICES, Physicians & Surgeons, Offices of Physicians (except Mental Health Specialists), Surgical Procedures NEC, Research, Practice, Brain, Parkinson's disease, Parkinson disease, Neurosurgeons, Brain surgery, Iocono, Robert

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