> HIT: A recent study published in the journal Medicine, which relied on data gathered exclusively over the Internet, demonstrates the increasing acceptance of the medium in the mainstream scientific community. Story [1]

> The Houston Chronicle reports that closing arguments are scheduled to begin today in Ernst v. Merck, the first civil suit involving the painkiller Vioxx. Story [2]

> The New York Times continues its series about the often degrading experience of being a patient in today's hospitals. Story [3]

> Some observers think South Carolina's plan to move thousands of Medicaid participants to health savings accounts (HSAs) could establish a national model. Story [4]

> HIT: In a sign that high-deductible health plans and HSAs are becoming mainstream, consultant BearingPoint and claims processor QCSI have put together an offering for consumer directed health plans. Release [5]

> HIT: Preparations are underway in Washington, DC, for the second annual Health Information Technology Summit, scheduled for September 7-9. Story [6]

> New Republic editor Johnathan Cohn reviews One Nation Uninsured for the Washington Post Book World. Story [7]

> Yet another new "epidemic" of drug abuse, this time supposedly of cough medicines containing codeine by rappers in Houston. Story [8]

> In Los Angeles, protesters rally against proposed cuts at King/Drew. Story [9]

> Thousands of state legislators descend on Seattle this week for the National Conference of State Legislatures to discuss pressing healthcare issues and other topics. Story [10]

> Boston Medical Center has turned an operating profit of $12.3 million for the first nine months of the year, after reporting a loss of $1 million a year ago. Story [11]

> Partners Healthcare CEO James Mongan earned $1.9 million last year, according to the Boston Globe. Story [12]

And Finally... Travelers are finding that some drugs with the same name in different countries are actually completely different drugs, leading to potentially fatal mix-ups. Story [13] (Wall Street Journal sub. req.)