Consumer tools: State web site discloses once-secret data on infections, deaths, prices at hospitals

"'In a nationwide first, Floridians have a new tool to assess local hospitals -- an online state analysis of every hospital's track record for infections, deaths, complications and even prices. Although health care specialists say the new Web site is limited and does not allow for direct hospital-to-hospital comparisons, they say public disclosure of previously secret data on medical outcomes could spur hospitals to work harder to combat preventable conditions.' Read more at State web site discloses once-secret data on infections, deaths, prices at hospitals: South Florida Sun-Sentinel." Read more at Florida Sun-Sentinel.

Articles: Direct to Consumer: Women are a powerful, but untapped, audience

"Women influence many family decisions—from choosing what's for dinner to selecting the medications their children take. In fact, nearly two-thirds of women are responsible for family healthcare decisions, according to a 2004 national survey conducted by Plan for Your Health. Many women also assume the care-giving role outside their nuclear families. Today's middle-aged woman may also look after her parents and in-laws too, often determining how long they can live on their own and how to best care for them. In addition, she often influences the important health decisions of grandchildren, co-workers, and friends." Read more at PharmExec.