News From Around the Web
> A heart rate monitor will be one of the biggest additions to Sony's second generation SmartBand 2. The original model did not include the feature, according to Endgadget. The newest model doesn't have a screen, but tracks users stats through the Lifelog app. Article
> A new wearable aims to keep swimmer safe while in the water. The wristband device, called Kingii, aims to serve as an underwater airbag for swimmers, according to the New York Times. The tool has achieved Indiegogo crowdfunding support for more than $600,000. It deploys as a floatation device if needed by a distressed swimmer. Article
Health Insurance News
> The second-year results of a collaborative care program between Cigna and an Indianapolis-based health system show that the endeavor both improved the quality of care and lowered costs, according to an announcement from the companies. The insurer started its partnership with Franciscan St. Francis Health in 2013 as part of its Cigna Collaborative Care initiative, through which it forms accountable care organization-like arrangements with providers around the country. Article
> The five insurers operating Medicaid managed care plans in Ohio scored only an "average" rating when it came to how satisfied their members were with their doctors, according to a new report card from the state. The report card, which is based on patient surveys and state-collected data, is the state's latest effort to provide more transparent information to help consumers choose an insurer. Article
Health IT News
> Increased use of remote medical consultations to improve healthcare for chronic disease and elderly patients, particularly as cost models shift in the industry, will fuel steady growth of the global home health technologies market, according to a new report. Efforts in the U.S., in particular, will boost the market, which will grow from $3.4 billion in 2014 to $13.7 billion by 2020. Article
And Finally… Find out why hummingbird tongues are just like mechanical pumps. Article