> In yet another merger and acquisition, Aurora (Wis.) Health Care has purchased another Illinois physician group, reports the Business Journal. The acquisition of Zion Clinic brings Aurora's total number of Illinois-owned physicians to 16. Article
> Four doctors have been charged with receiving kickbacks, as well as writing patient prescriptions for unnecessary medications, billing insurers for the unnecessary care, and directing their patients to fill the prescriptions at more than 20 Michigan pharmacies owned by the same pharmacist, reports the HealthLeaders Media. The alleged fraud activity totaled $58 million. Article
> A study published in the German Medical Association's official international science journal shows death rates from general anesthesia are rising worldwide, reports TIME's Healthland. The number of deaths within a year after a general anesthesia is one in 20; in the over-65 age group, it's one in 10. Article
> The U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Colorado is investigating Denver-based kidney dialysis firm DaVita, reports the Denver Post. In an earnings call this week, CEO Kent Thiry said prosecutors seem especially interested in the firm's relationships with physicians. Article
> Budget cuts in Texas may have claimed their next victim in Austin Women's Hospital, reports KXAN. The state reduced the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston's budget by $114 million for the next two years, forcing it to consider closing the public hospital women's hospital to free up funds. Article
And Finally... Doc treats patients while on running treadmill. Article