> One-in-four veterans returning from the Iraq war suffers from health or psychological problems, according to a Department of Defense screening of returning service members. Article
> Connecticut released data on HMO performance yesterday; Aetna finished at the top of the list. Article
> Other Detroit automakers plan to follow GM's example and reduce healthcare benefits for their employees. Article
> Two new studies published in medical journals offer evidence which suggests that bariatric surgery is far more dangerous than doctors had believed. Article
> New research appearing in the journal Pediatrics finds that doctors' children are prescribed antibiotics far less often than the rest of the population. Article
> The 211,000 member Geisinger Health Plan in Pennsylvania has chosen Amisys Synertech for its consumer-directed healthcare administration services. Release
> Princeton Healthcare System in New Jersey has announced that it has signed a five-year technology outsourcing contract worth $58 million with ACS. Release
> The Washington Post offers a none-too-encouraging review of "consumer driven plans." Article
> The California Health Care Foundation has a new publication out distilling the latest research on consumer decision-making. Report
> LoJack, the maker of a popular GPS system that tracks stolen vehicles, is considering developing similar technology that would allow hospitals to track at-risk patients, such as those with Alzheimer's. Other types of tracking, including WiFi and RFID, are also being considered. Article
> The University of Colorado is using a new lab developed by Randox that allows it to run dozens of tests on a single blood sample, testing for cancer, heart disease and other conditions. Article
And Finally... Northwest Airlines plans to impose a healthcare premium on employees who smoke starting January 1. The restrictions also cover spouses. Article