Healthcare Manufacturing

Since the U.S. healthcare system is the current focus of reform, policy makers may want to consider this: the sector contributes 8% of the nation's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The health care industry was responsible for 8% of the total carbon released in the U.S. in 2007; health care accounted for only 3% of the carbon footprint in the UK in 2004. Hospitals were the top emitters, accounting for 39% of sector GHG emissions. Where can mitigation initiatives achieve the greatest environmental and health benefits?

The preceding article is a "sneak peek" from Healthcare Manufacturing, a newsletter from GlobalSpec. To stay up-to-date and informed on industry trends, products, and technologies, subscribe to Healthcare Manufacturing today.

The hidden costs of U.S. energy production, such as health impacts of air pollution, were an estimated $120 billion in 2005. The National Research Council report quantifying these damages concludes that coal-fired power plants, which produce over half of the nation's electricity, accounted for $62 billion in hidden damages linked to air pollutants. Life-cycle damages of wind power and normal nuclear reactor operation are deemed negligible in comparison to fossil fuels. Take a deep breath and offer up some remedial policy prescriptions.

The preceding article is a "sneak peek" from Healthcare Manufacturing, a newsletter from GlobalSpec. To stay up-to-date and informed on industry trends, products, and technologies, subscribe to Healthcare Manufacturing today.

A majority of 800 Californians surveyed want doctors to have access to scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of treatments. They would support legislative measures requiring physicians to provide patients with a complete understanding of their treatment options. Respondents favor their doctor's experience over such scientific evidence, though close to a third would want some combination of both. Should disclosure of scientific evidence be legislated and be made mandatory in the health care field?

The preceding article is a "sneak peek" from Healthcare Manufacturing, a newsletter from GlobalSpec. To stay up-to-date and informed on industry trends, products, and technologies, subscribe to Healthcare Manufacturing today.

The next big thing in wireless networking technology is WiMax, which may be coming to a city near you. Like Wi-Fi systems, WiMax offers lightning fast wireless Internet speeds. Broad area coverage—whole cities—is similar to that provided by third-gen technology. Relatively inexpensive laptop dongles will allow access to WiMax networks but the data plans seem initially costly. Would you or your organization be willing to pay to partake of this advance? What benefits can this capability bring to your professional and personal life?

The preceding article is a "sneak peek" from Healthcare Manufacturing, a newsletter from GlobalSpec. To stay up-to-date and informed on industry trends, products, and technologies, subscribe to Healthcare Manufacturing today.