Cleveland Clinic journal of medicine
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Dabigatran (Pradaxa) is a new oral anticoagulant approved in the United States for the primary prevention of stroke and systemic embolization in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. It offers clinicians an alternative to warfarin (Coumadin), and it has received considerable interest because of its convenience of use, clinical efficacy, and safety profile. However, it is more expensive, and this may limit its widespread use.
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Medical care in the United States is plagued by extremely high costs, poor quality, and fragmented delivery. In response, new concepts of integrated health care delivery have developed, including patient-centered medical homes and accountable care organizations (ACOs). This article reviews these concepts and includes a detailed discussion of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services' ACO and Shared Savings Proposed Rule.
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Infection related to cardiovascular implantable electronic devices is a serious complication, necessitating removal of the device and prolonged parenteral antibiotic therapy. Accurate diagnosis and optimal management of these infections are challenging. This review highlights the critical management decisions.