Pharmacy Technology

INDIANAPOLIS Allergy sufferers can save money and receive quality, convenient care by skipping the emergency room and instead visiting a retail-based or urgent-care clinic, according to a recent study.

The study conducted by HealthCore, WellPoint’s outcomes research subsidiary, found that patients can save anywhere from $50 to $400 in out-of-pocket costs per visit by skipping the ER and heading to a retail health- or urgent-care clinic when they are unable to see their primary care physician.

WESTON, Fla. American Scientific Resources on Friday announced an increase in production of its new line of 5-in-1 noncontact thermometers.

Delivery to warehouse is expected in mid June. Final sub-component assembly and packaging will take place in the United States at ASR's Ohio facility, and ship to retailers the first week in August. Full production capability of the consumer model exceeds 5,000 units per day, the company stated.

The new 5-in-1 non contact consumer model has a suggested retail price of $49.95.

CLEVELAND Giant Eagle and University Hospitals last week announced a joint effort to open the first of four walk-in retail health clinics through clinic operator FastCare, located in Giant Eagle supermarkets across northeast Ohio.

DOYLESTOWN, Pa. Following its annual shareholders meeting held here last week, shareholders voted to change the name of the Quigley Corp. to ProPhase Labs Inc. The name change became effective as of Thursday, May 6. The new corporate Web site will be www.prophaselabs.com.

WHAT IT MEANS AND WHY IT'S IMPORTANT The news that pharmacists believe that most consumers buy over-the-counter products that were recommended by them further demonstrates the significant role that pharmacists play in the U.S. healthcare system.

(THE NEWS: APhA survey: Pharmacists recommend over-the-counter products to consumers. For the full story, click here)