> The American Hospital Association is lobbying for more protections from Congress to allow hospitals to donate computer hardware and software to doctors. Release
> Boston Scientific said it is recalling its Flextome angioplasty balloon. Article
> USA Today reports that staffing shortages at state programs are leading to major delays at counseling hotlines set up to handle inquiries on the new Medicare drug benefit. Article
> Sierra Health Services announced a two-for-one stock split effective Dec. 16. Article
> Cerner will implement its Cerner Bridge Medical system, a bar code-enabled point of care system, at Maryland's Bon Secours Healthcare. Release
> Saying he's had enough of the "McDonald's model," a Colorado physician has set himself up with a concierge practice. Article
> National Health Services, a national healthcare marketing umbrella company, has launched My Healthy Lifestyle, a consumer driven-health program with a wellness focus. Release
> AmeriSource Bergen said it has formed a strategic alliance with Allscripts. The two companies will work on e-prescribing projects together. Release
> Talking Points: A majority of patients say legalizing physician assisted suicide would not impact their trust in their doctors, according to research at Wake Forest. Article
> Chutes & Ladders: Misys named Richard Atkin president of its Hospital Systems group. Article
And Finally... Insurance Journal is issuing a warning against hanky-panky at annual Christmas parties. Article