ALSO NOTED: AHA releases transparency guidelines; CT scanners seen likely to change heart care; and much more...

> The American Hospital Association said it supports efforts to increase transparency in the industry. But changes need to be studied carefully. Article 

> A new Ambulatory Surgery Center chain, Meridian Surgical Partners, is starting up with $75 million in funding. It already has four centers and a "full deal pipeline." Article

> The Boston Globe reports on the trend towards new ultra-cool (and ultra-expensive) 64-slice CT scanners, looking at how their arrival at a number of Massachusetts hospitals is likely to transform the way heart problems are treated. Article

> RFID technology appears to be making inroads in the hospital market, at least according to a new survey by research group IDTechX. Release

> Things are looking up at LifePoint. The hospital chain's shares were up $2.49, or 8.4 percent on Friday, after the company said it beat expectations. Article

> The New York Times editorial board came out in favor of the new medical device guidelines recommended by the Heart Rhythm Society. Article

> The American Academy of Pediatrics wants to enlist pediatricians in the fight against childhood obesity. The organization released guidelines that push doctors to monitor patient activity levels. Article

> In New Jersey, a spate of extreme makeovers as local hospitals try to keep up with marketplace competition. Article

And Finally… A New Zealand doctor who talked to the media after rock star Keith Richards arrived at his hospital for treatment will reportedly lose his job. According to reports, Richards was injured after taking a nasty fall from a coconut tree. Article