"Goodall-Witcher Medical Center in Central Texas is very pleased to be able to offer sleep studies locally. Previously patients would have to travel to Waco or other distant areas for these services," commented Clarence Fields, Jr., FACHE, President/CEO. "Not only will Goodall-Witcher Medical Center be able to serve patients locally for these tests, but it will also service patients referred by physicians and providers located in surrounding areas," Fields added.
"It is amazing how many individuals I see on a regular basis with sleep disorders," said Dr. Kenneth Lowrance, APRN, FNP-BC, Family Nurse Practitioner/Vice President at Goodall-Witcher. "Once diagnosed with sleep apnea, treatment has resulted in almost miraculous changes in many patients' lives. One cannot underestimate the value and importance of high quality sleep in optimizing one's ability to function and in improving their overall quality of life."
"Graymark Healthcare is honored to create an alignment with Goodall-Witcher Medical Center and Henderson Community Hospitals to provide sleep diagnostic and treatment services," said Stanton Nelson. "The Graymark Healthcare Comprehensive Care Model for Sleep Disorders including obstructive sleep apnea complement the care offered by hospitals and medical centers and allow them to provide state-of-the-art sleep disorder services in a high quality, affordable manner," Nelson continued.
The management agreement between these Medical Centers and Graymark Healthcare become effective in July; the sleep centers will begin seeing patients in August.
Graymark Healthcare, Inc. is a diversified medical holding company that owns and operates diagnostic sleep centers that treat a wide range of sleep disorders; independent pharmacies that serve the needs of local markets; and a medical equipment company that provides both disposable and durable medical equipment. Graymark plans to continue its growth both internally and through strategic acquisitions within the medical industry.
This press release may contain forward-looking statements which are based on the Company's current expectations, forecasts and assumptions. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties which could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially from the Company's expectations, forecasts and assumptions. These risks and uncertainties include risks and uncertainties not in the control of the Company, including, without limitation, the current economic climate and other risks and uncertainties, including those enumerated and described in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which filings are available on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov. Unless otherwise required by law, the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
]]>Until recently, few consumers recognized that most mattresses are made with toxic chemicals. The British medical journal, The Lancet, and the Harvard School of Public Health have linked high-volume-production (HVP) chemicals in consumer products with developmental brain disorders such as autism and ADHD*. Some, such as formaldehyde and toluene, common in conventional and memory foam mattresses, are known carcinogens.
The Savvy Rest Organic Mattress is all-natural latex, made from the sap of the rubber tree. The casing is certified organic wool and certified organic cotton. Independent organic certifications add credibility to the brand.
Savvy Rest attributes its growth to increasing demand for healthful, eco-friendly products, creative staff (none with MBAs or sales backgrounds), thorough research, and strong relationships with 60+ independent stores. In 2005, Savvy Rest had one idea and two staff. Today, the company employs 15 people. In 2006, Savvy Rest sold 90% of its products directly to consumers. In 2010, over 90% of sales are through the company's growing network of dealers--the broadest among organic mattress manufacturers.
Savvy Rest is a member of the Sustainable Furnishings Council and is certified by Green America. The company posts organic certifications and independent materials testing results on its web site: http://www.savvyrest.com. The site features the industry's most comprehensive consumer education, including over 50 articles on materials, design, and sleep issues.
In addition to distinguishing between natural and synthetic latex, the Savvy Rest web site also educates consumers on the differences among mattresses labeled organic. Prior to 2005, even mattresses called "organic" were made with cotton fiber filling, which grows hard or lumpy in a short time. Cotton fiber also harbors dust mites, a major allergen.
Savvy Rest's founder, Michael Penny, a 30-year yoga practitioner, developed a layered mattress design that is customized for each person, based on their height, weight, sleeping positions, and pain issues. Savvy Rest Organic Mattresses can be configured differently on each side to accommodate couples, and can be customized to any dimensions.
The company offers a 90-day exchange period during which customers can change layers to alter the "feel".
The Savvy Rest bedding line includes organic mattress toppers, sheets, mattress pads, and pillows.
]]>The approval was based primarily on data obtained in the latest SOUNDER-SLEEP Phase IV clinical study, indicating that Circadin was safe and more effective than placebo for at least 3 months. Circadin is now the only sleep medication to be approved for up to 3 months.
The latest study was a large randomized clinical trial that analyzed more than 600 patients, over 400 of whom where on Circadin treatment for 6 months. The study demonstrated improvements in sleep latency, quality of sleep and morning alertness, with no withdrawal symptoms and rebound insomnia. The safety and efficacy data provided in the study support the proposed changes in treatment duration. In particular, the analysis of data from the new study showed that the benefit observed after 3 weeks is maintained for at least 3 months. Moreover, at 3 months, about an extra 10% of responders were seen in the Circadin treated group.
Circadin (http://www.Circadin.com) is an innovative sleep medication that has been approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA), the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), the Swiss Agency for Therapeutic Products (SwissMedic) and the Israeli Ministry of Health (MOH) for the short-term treatment of primary insomnia, characterized by poor quality of sleep in patients who are aged 55 and over. The approval is based on clinical studies demonstrating positive effects on sleep quality, sleep induction, and most importantly next day alertness and functioning.
"We are pleased that the EMA recognized the importance of this therapeutic profile and recommended approval of the change in the posology of Circadin from 3 weeks to 3 months of treatment," said Professor Nava Zisapel, CSO of Neurim Pharmaceuticals, adding, "Importantly, Circadin's efficacy was maintained for at least 3 months and safety was maintained over the entire six months of treatment."
Dr. Tali Nir, VP Clinical and Regulatory Affairs of Neurim Pharmaceuticals explained that in the case of some hypnotics, concerns of safety and potential dependence issues have led to restrictions in the permitted treatment duration to ultra short periods for 2 to 4 weeks. Adding, "With Circadin there are no safety concerns and no concerns regarding withdrawal or rebound effects, as demonstrated in the study, which would limit the recommendation to treat for the full 3 month short term treatment period."
Circadin (http://www.Circadin.com) is the first and only IP-protected prolonged-release melatonin to be approved as an ethical drug by health authorities. Administration of Circadin to patients with primary insomnia improves sleep quality and morning alertness and facilitates sleep onset in patients aged 55 or over. Now it is also the first insomnia treatment approved for up to 13 weeks. Currently Circadin is commercialized in Europe by H.Lundbeck A/S and Nycomed, in Australia by Sigma, in Thailand by DKSH and in Israel by Teva. Circadin is undergoing registration in US, Asia and Latin American markets.
Neurim Pharmaceuticals (http://www.Neurim.com) is headquartered in Israel with offices in Switzerland and the UK. The company was founded in 1991 and is focused on drug discovery and development of treatments for age-related disorders, primarily in the central nervous system (CNS).
]]>Due to its popularity and consumer demand, the facility is expanding and now offers therapeutic massage, hot stone therapy and Reflexology in addition to its flotation therapy specialty. In Flotation REST (Restricted Environmental Stimulus Therapy), a person floats effortlessly on top of a pool of saltwater - 10 inches of water and 1,200 pounds of salt - in a specially designed pod with minimal light and sound.
Benefits include pain and stress relief and a natural improvement of sleep quality. In a chronic pain study recently conducted, 70% of participants had absolutely no pain during Float sessions and all participants had some relief. The pain decrease lasts anywhere from a few hours to a few days and in rare cases even longer. Relief like this can enable pain sufferers to rebuild muscle, use limbs that they were unable to use and have a normal life again.
"While our customers flock to us for Flotation REST, we wanted to offer them an even greater range of services," said owner Nick Janicki. "Reflexology and Hot Stone Massage perfectly complement the relatively modern concept of Flotation REST, which was developed in the '70s."
Reflexology is a natural healing art based on the principle that reflexes in the feet, hands and ears correspond to every part, gland and organ of the body. Through application of pressure on these reflex zones, reflexology relieves tension, improves circulation and helps promote the natural function of the related areas of the body.
A one-hour float costs $79. Massage services are $110 for a 60-minute session or $60 for a 30-minute session. True REST is offering $20 off for first-time Flotation REST clients. Individuals can receive a coupon by signing up for the company's newsletter or joining its Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/truerest. Packages are also available, including use of the oxygen bar and more.
The facility is located at 15033 N Thompson Peak Parkway, Suite D101. For more information, visit http://www.truerest.com.
The True REST Float Spa was started by Nick Janicki and his wife, Holly, in 2009. Alex Janicki, Nick's brother, also works at the center and customers are likely to be greeted by one of their smiling faces upon each visit. "Everyone at the Spa is passionate about Flotation REST and we hope the American public can see the exceptional value of such a service," said Nick Janicki.
]]>A-STEP is a two-step training initiative endorsed by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM). The A-STEP Introductory Course is offered locally by Sleep HealthCenters, one of the first accredited A-STEP providers in the nation. The next step is the A-STEP Self-Study Modules, which are completed on the AASM website in conjunction with your employer's on-the-job training program. Sleep HealthCenters first offered the A-STEP program, a combination of lectures and hands-on training, in June 2006.
"Sleep HealthCenters is excited to offer A-STEP for individuals interested in gaining formal education in sleep technology," said Elise Maher, Sleep HealthCenters' Regional Technical Director and A-STEP Program Director. "It is an invaluable resource for the local education and healthcare communities because of its appeal to both experienced sleep technicians and new entrants to the field of sleep technology. A-STEP is one way that accredited labs can have their staff meet the requirements of the new accreditation standards. For those interested in starting a career in healthcare, sleep technology offers a rewarding career in a growing field that can be attained through work experience in a relatively short period."
Sleep HealthCenters is a network of sleep medicine specialty centers and the largest provider of such services in Massachusetts. Education is a critical component of Sleep HealthCenters' service model, supporting sleep medicine fellowship programs and organizing sleep medicine conferences, in addition to A-STEP classes.
A-STEP was developed to standardize training and to begin an educational progression for those interested in the field of sleep technology. As of July 1, 2009, all AASM-accredited centers must have at least one registered technologist on staff and all others must be enrolled in a training program such as A-STEP. As of 2010, A-STEP will be one of two educational pathways a sleep technologist must pass before sitting for the Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists (BRPT) exam.
Individuals interested in enrolling in A-STEP should contact Jeff Johnson, Sleep HealthCenters' A-STEP Coordinator at 508-755-5283 x101. www.sleephealth.com
]]>Speakers will include Meir Kryger, MD, Director of Research and Education for Gaylord Sleep Medicine, Keith Dixon, MD, Medical Director for Gaylord Sleep Medicine and Kevin Rush, RRT, RPSGT and Sleep Consultant for Philips Respironics.
Respironics, PROVENT® Sleep Apnea Therapy, J & L Medical Services and All-Med Health Care, Inc. will also be available with the newest sleep apnea and respiratory equipment as well as alternatives to CPAP that are exclusive to Gaylord Sleep Medicine. Dr. Stephen Palluotto, DMD will also show the dental alternatives to CPAP.
"This is an opportunity to learn about sleep apnea and other disorders that may be robbing you or a loved one of sleep that is vital to overall good health," Medical Director Keith Dixon said. "Sleep disorders have been linked to diabetes, stroke and high blood pressure."
Refreshments and snacks will be served. Please RSVP by June 22, 2010 via email to cpolaske@gaylord.org or by calling 203-605-2855.
Gaylord Sleep Medicine, the largest single provider of comprehensive sleep medicine services in Connecticut, treats patients with a range of sleep disorders including sleep apnea, hypersomnia and insomnia. Gaylord Sleep Medicine, also known for its acclaimed research program, is managed by Sleep HealthCenters with sites in Bridgeport, Hartford, Glastonbury, Guilford, North Haven and Trumbull.
]]>"We conducted extensive consumer research prior to building the new website," said Jodi Allen, Sealy Chief Marketing Officer. "We found only 18 percent of consumers felt prepared to buy a mattress after conducting online research, and more than two-thirds said online research was not helpful in deciding which brand of mattress to buy, making the in-store shopping experience very confusing. We took their feedback to heart and designed the new site specifically to help end their confusion."
The website offers an easy-to-navigate user experience that is unique to the bedding industry, allowing consumers to explore the various types of mattresses as well as Sealy's portfolio of brands on the homepage before making a single click. In addition, the site features several innovative tools to help connect the online research experience to the in-store shopping experience.
The site empowers consumers by allowing them to easily search for mattress information in the way they request it -- by brand, technology or product promotions. It walks consumers through the mattress buying process effortlessly, breaking down industry terminology into relatable, clear language, while helping them learn which mattress best fits their sleep behavior and lifestyle. Sealy.com also features easy-to-understand video and text-based content that explains the different brands, products, features and technologies.
The site will feature the entire family of Sealy brands, including Sealy Posturepedic®, Stearns & Foster®, Embody® by Sealy and Sealy Brand. Once consumers identify which brand best fits their needs, they are able to access the first-of-its-kind Sealy mattress-builder, where they can choose the features that meet their personal preferences.
As consumers select features, the suggested retail price will adjust accordingly. Once the consumer has built their perfect mattress, Sealy's mattress-builder creates a printable fact sheet that consumers can take into the retail store when they are ready to purchase.
"In addition to conducting our own research, we looked outside of our industry at leaders who have changed the online shopping experience to better meet consumer expectations," said Margo Borgione, Director, Global Marketing for Sealy. "By listening to our consumers and utilizing best-in-class techniques from other industries, we have created a dramatically better experience for online mattress shopping."
Sealy worked with its marketing agency Cramer-Krasselt/Chicago to build and develop the new website. The new site is now live. For more information visit www.sealy.com.
The "Sealy.com Mattress Study" survey was conducted online by MarketTools, Inc., on behalf of Sealy. The poll, which gathered feedback from over 1,000 mattress shoppers across the U.S. who had recently purchased a mattress or were planning to in the near future, was conducted in April 2009 in effort to understand the role the Internet plays when shopping for a new mattress.
]]>Graymark Healthcare, Inc. provides comprehensive OSA therapy in over 90 communities; with Board Certified sleep medicine physicians overseeing all aspects of care, including diagnosis, therapy and ongoing clinical support. Through CPAP-supplies.com Graymark Healthcare allows patients who know what machines or supplies they are looking for to benefit from Graymark's experience in providing care and its purchasing power. We offer a wonderful opportunity for patients to acquire their treatment products at the lowest cost available regardless of where they live.
"Most obstructive sleep apnea patients have visited a doctor or sleep center and have used CPAP machines and masks before," says Timothy Lebens, Vice President for Marketing for CPAP-supplies.com. "They don't need a lot of hand-holding or medical direction because they have already been instructed in the proper use of the equipment. They will find they can order the exact same supplies online with a significant savings."
CPAP-supplies.com is staffed by certified respiratory therapists who are available to answer customer questions from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Offering customer support from knowledgeable medical professionals sets the company apart from other online suppliers, according to Lebens.
"Our objective is to provide optimum solutions for patients at the lowest cost. It is an easy, affordable and reliable sleep disorder solution," he said. "We can provide the same products and services without having to provide the intensive level of care of a sleep center."
Lebens says CPAP-supplies.com carries the same high quality masks, supplies and machines as supplied by doctors or sleep centers, but the costs are much lower because they can provide the products more efficiently through the internet. "People who already have a prescription and have visited a doctor or a sleep center are familiar with the mask and CPAP device options and they understand how to use the equipment. CPAP-supplies.com allows patients to purchase the same equipment without going back to a clinic."
CPAP-supplies.com also reminds customers every three to six months that it is time to replace filters or tubes. The reminder makes it easy for patients to re-order or remember when they need new supplies.
Lebens says CPAP-supplies.com was designed with patient input to make the process of ordering anything they need for OSA as comfortable an experience as possible. "Graymark Healthcare, Inc. launched CPAP-supplies.com in an effort to increase patient compliance with the CPAP use and decrease the hassle of ordering supplies. "We have created a reputable, professional and affordable solution for CPAP users," Lebens said.
For more information, visit www.CPAP-supplies.com.
For a great shopping experience, great value and knowledgeable care providers; visit us: www.CPAP-supplies.com Rest Easy with Affordable, Reliable Sleep Solutions(SM).
Graymark Healthcare, Inc. is a diversified medical holding company that owns and operates diagnostic sleep centers that treat a wide range of sleep disorders; independent pharmacies that serve the needs of local markets; and a medical equipment company that provides both disposable and durable medical equipment. Graymark plans to continue its growth both internally and through strategic acquisitions within the medical industry. (NASDAQ: GRMH)
SOURCE Graymark Healthcare, Inc.
"Hollandia makes some of the most luxurious products in our industry, and on the retail side of their business, they understand the importance of selling the benefits of a good night's sleep," said Gerry Borreggine, Therapedic president and CEO. "Together, I think we make a powerful combination in the bedding industry."
Hollandia CEO Avi Barssessat said he had been looking for sometime to find the right U.S. sleep products brand to bring to Israel.
"Israelis love American brands, and Therapedic is an outstanding sleep products company that offers a full range of product choices. I think the brand will resonate well here in Israel," he said. "We have examined the growth of Therapedic internationally to benchmark what has worked outside of the United States, and we believe our strategy will make it the fastest growing brand in Israel."
Hollandia now operates in more than 120 locations throughout the world including two retail showrooms in Philadelphia and Short Hills, N.J. All its products are manufactured in Israel.
Hollandia draws upon more than 29 years of perfecting sleep systems, to create a unique customer experience combining superior service with the highest quality materials In addition to its innovative sleep systems, Hollandia manufactures a full range of complementary sleep essentials such as plush pillows, fitted sheets, blankets and mattress protectors. Committed to innovation and technology, Hollandia also offers custom-made style essentials such as a daybed or ottoman that can easily transform into an extremely comfortable guest bed. For more information please go to www.hollandiainternational.com.
Therapedic
International is a 53-year-old mattress and sleep products manufacturer,
with over 50 licensees producing products under the Therapedic brand
label throughout the world.
Multiple variables influence success in this market, and the competitive advantage has not always been centered on technology. New product designs are launched at a feverish pace, and success is based on possession of a broad product line and established sales channels. Competitive advantages based on technology have historically been quickly matched or overcome by competitors.
Frost & Sullivan (www.patientmonitoring.frost.com) finds U.S. revenues in the sleep apnea diagnostic and therapeutic devices market totaled approximately $1.35 billion in 2008, with a 16.2 percent growth rate. Revenues expect to increase within the next few years due to the expansion of the installed base and increased awareness in obstructive sleep apnea, after which growth is likely to moderately stabilize. Also included are further breakouts within the diagnostic and therapeutic markets containing revenues, units, and resulting growth rates forecasting through 2015.
The largest factors for growth in this market are the expanding number of sleep apnea product users, the evolving patient mix, increasing obesity trends, greater awareness and appreciation for the benefits of sleep apnea treatment, and a steady growth of sleep service providers.
"The patient population for this segment of the market is becoming more diverse as its use and acceptability expands," notes Frost & Sullivan Research Analyst Gary Burk. "Preparation and proper planning to navigate the future landscape of this environment will directly compete with future cutting-edge technology."
The greatest restraints in this market include a high degree of competition, the ever-evolving competitive bidding and reimbursement process, the future of healthcare reform, and patient compliance.
"As with any rapidly expanding market, the ability to address and navigate these challenges will not ensure success or guarantee profitability," continues Burk.
If you are interested in more information on this study, please send an e-mail to Johanna Haynes, Corporate Communications, at johanna.haynes@frost.com, with your full name, company name, title, telephone number, company e-mail address, company website, city, state and country.
Frost & Sullivan, the Growth Partnership Company, enables clients to accelerate growth and achieve best-in-class positions in growth, innovation and leadership. The company's Growth Partnership Service provides the CEO and the CEO's Growth Team with disciplined research and best-practice models to drive the generation, evaluation, and implementation of powerful growth strategies. Frost & Sullivan leverages over 45 years of experience in partnering with Global 1000 companies, emerging businesses and the investment community from 40 offices on six continents. To join our Growth Partnership, please visit http://www.frost.com.
]]>This unique conference between the leadership of wireless companies, global product companies, consumers, payors, providers and service organizations, offers attendees the distinct opportunity to discuss the most significant emerging market trends, address and propose solutions to industry issues, create new partnerships and demonstrate new solutions - all in one exclusive venue.
Among the organizations presenting are senior management from WLSA members, including Ascension Health, AT&T, CareFusion, Johnson & Johnson, OptumHealth, QUALCOMM and St. Jude Medical, who will provide insights into their interest in the field and best practices for incorporating innovative, new wireless technologies into new products, applications and services, as well as how to bring these to providers and patients.
"WLSA created the Convergence Summit to bring key elements of the wireless health community together to meet, share ideas and demonstrate new products and solutions," said Robert B. McCray, WLSA President & CEO. "Our goal is to provide a forum that directly addresses emerging wireless technology in healthcare and enables participants to gain a thorough understanding of how to succeed in this dynamic market."
The event begins with the Investor's Meeting and Triple Tree I Award Program for Wireless-Life Sciences Alliance® on Day 1, followed by the WLSA Convergence Summit on Day 2, and ends with Commercialization Day on Day 3.
The Summit's first day (May 11) features the Investors' Meeting, an invitational event for qualified investors, WLSA partners, and I Award finalists. A limited number of seats are open to the public. Keynote speakers on Day 1 will include Terrance H. Gregg, President & CEO, DexCom, Inc., and Dr. Mohit Kaushal, Director of Connected Health, FCC Omnibus Broadband Initiative. Additionally, winners of the prestigious I Award, which recognizes companies for Best Operational Effectiveness Solution, Best Clinical Solution, and Best Consumer Experience Solution, will be announced. Award finalists include technologies such as remote monitoring technologies, home healthcare solutions, advanced imaging software, cloud computing and personal health improvement opportunities. Twelve finalists were chosen through a competitive process from approximately 50 applicants.
The second day (May 12) is reserved for the Convergence Summit, an invitation-only program for C-level executives from WLSA members and featuring presentations by attendees and moderated conversations between executive leadership and thought leaders within the wireless, healthcare and convergence spaces. Among the themes and questions to be addressed are:
The third day of the Summit, Commercialization Day, is open for general registration, and features workshops facilitated by IDEO and Insight Product Development aimed at identifying solutions to numerous industry challenges, including the clinical validation of new technologies and tech-enabled services; modification of healthcare business and payment models to support opportunities; and seamless integration of products into consumers' and patients' daily lives.
Showcased during the day will be:
Throughout all three days of the Summit, global leaders in wireless healthcare and life sciences industries will staff demo booths that provide product demonstrations and informative presentations.
"The entire conference will leverage the experiences and processes from other industries to mitigate risk in our industry," McCray said. "The sessions are designed to lead attendees toward true innovation and to provide real value to their organizations. It is our insight that the initial shape of an important new market is driven by a relatively small number of committed organizations and thought leaders. Our meetings are designed to identify and bring the best wireless health leaders together in a quality setting to enhance their discovery of business partners."
For information or to register for WLSA's 5th Annual Summit, visit www.wirelesslifesciences.org.
In an effort to provide those in need with a good night's sleep, 1800Mattress.com, a family-owned national mattress company, is taking a leadership role by partnering with HomeAid, the leading national non-profit provider of housing for today's homeless, to provide more than 500 beds to shelters nationwide.
"At 1800Mattress.com, we believe that everyone is entitled to a good night's sleep and we are proud to support HomeAid as they conquer homelessness one build at a time," said Adam Blank, 1800Mattress.com's Chief Operating Officer. "A sound night's sleep starts with a great mattress and we are dedicated to providing those in need with a place to sleep at night while they rebuild their lives during the day."
While 1800Mattress.com has already provided beds to HomeAid projects in Orange County, CA, and Houston, the partnership officially begins at HomeAid Atlanta's Phoenix Pass build in Atlanta, Georgia. A dedication ceremony for the Phoenix Pass project, one of HomeAid's largest projects, is set for April 14 with support from former Atlanta Mayor, Shirley Franklin. The report by the National Center on Family Homelessness, which analyzed data from 2005-06, found that Georgia was one of the states most affected by child homelessness.
"We are grateful for the support of 1800Mattress.com as 2010 is poised to be a busy year for our chapters nationwide," said Jeffrey Slavin, CEO of HomeAid. "The folks in our shelters list a bed as one of the comforts of home that they miss the most, so we are excited to help them rest easier via this partnership."
HomeAid was founded in 1989. The HomeAid mission is to build and maintain dignified housing where homeless families and individuals can rebuild their lives. This is accomplished through the donation of construction services and materials from members of the homebuilding industry. To date, the organization has provided transitional housing for more than 100,000 individuals including those temporarily out of work, abused children, victims of domestic violence, at-risk teens, people living with HIV/AIDS and victims of natural disasters. HomeAid currently has projects in 15 states nationwide.
About Phoenix Pass:
Phoenix Pass is a nonprofit organization designed as a partnership between First Baptist Church of Conyers and Rockdale Emergency Relief. The mission of Phoenix Pass is to serve the needs of families experiencing temporary homelessness by giving them an opportunity to reestablish self-sufficiency in a residential setting. The focus of the program is to empower homeless families with supportive services and the resources to recover and rebuild a productive, stable lifestyle for themselves and their family. Phoenix Pass operates under the vision that those who have successfully completed the program will remain in the Conyers-Rockdale County area to live, work and contribute back to the community the education, life skills and job skills acquired during their tenure in the program. It is expected that residents will transition from Phoenix Pass into the community as productive and self-sufficient citizens.
The Phoenix Pass
complex will eventually accommodate up to 90 people at any given time,
providing housing for up to two years along with case management, a
mentorship program, life skills classes and aftercare programs. Phoenix
Pass is located on the campus of Light House Village in Conyers, and is one of three nonprofit
programs on the 27-acre campus.
"Allergies can cause upper airway obstruction, or mouth breathing, in patients," said Yosh Jefferson, DMD, author of the study. "Almost every family has someone with mouth breathing problems."
Over time, children whose mouth breathing goes untreated may suffer from abnormal facial and dental development, such as long, narrow faces and mouths, gummy smiles, gingivitis and crooked teeth. The poor sleeping habits that result from mouth breathing can adversely affect growth and academic performance. As Dr. Jefferson notes in his article, "Many of these children are misdiagnosed with attention deficit disorder (ADD) and hyperactivity." In addition, mouth breathing can cause poor oxygen concentration in the bloodstream, which can cause high blood pressure, heart problems, sleep apnea and other medical issues.
"Children who mouth breathe typically do not sleep well, causing them to be tired during the day and possibly unable to concentrate on academics," Dr. Jefferson said. "If the child becomes frustrated in school, he or she may exhibit behavioral problems."
Treatment for mouth breathing is available and can be beneficial for children if the condition is caught early. A dentist can check for mouth breathing symptoms and swollen tonsils. If tonsils and/or adenoids are swollen, they can be surgically removed by an ear-nose-throat (ENT) specialist. If the face and mouth are narrow, dentists can use expansion appliances to help widen the sinuses and open nasal airway passages.
"After surgery and/or orthodontic intervention, many patients show improvement in behavior, energy level, academic performance, peer acceptance and growth," says Leslie Grant, DDS, spokesperson for the AGD. "Seeking treatment for mouth breathing can significantly improve quality of life."
At this time, many health care professionals are not aware of the health problems associated with mouth breathing. If you or your child suffers from this condition, speak with a health care professional who is knowledgeable about mouth breathing.
To learn more about oral health, visit www.KnowYourTeeth.com.
The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) is a professional association of more than 35,000 general dentists dedicated to staying up to date in the profession through continuing education. Founded in 1952, the AGD has grown to become the second-largest dental association in the United States, and it is the only association that exclusively represents the needs and interest of general dentists. More than 772,000 persons are employed directly in the field of dentistry. A general dentist is the primary care provider for patients of all ages and is responsible for the diagnosis, treatment, management and overall coordination of services related to patients' oral health needs. For more information about the AGD, please visit www.agd.org.
]]>In 2009 Graymark Healthcare implemented a core market changing strategy where it integrated the diagnostic and treatment components of care for Obstructive Sleep Apnea. While the industry has historically managed these components separately, Graymark recognized the clinical requirement that they be integrated in order to optimize patients' compliance with care. In 2009 the Company integrated the business components wherever feasible and has shown industry leading compliance rates as a result.
Additionally, fiscal year 2009 was highlighted by two significant acquisitions in late Q3 that nearly doubled the size of the Company's SMS segment. These acquisitions reflected the Company's stated strategy of being a key aggregator of well run assets in the sleep diagnostic and treatment space.
With the addition of the acquired businesses the Company had sufficient scale in its SMS segment to develop central, standardized core services including billing and collection, IT, marketing, HR and Business Development. These services will allow the Company to acquire quickly and integrate efficiently ensuring that acquisition synergies are maximally realized.
As a result of such centralized, standardized core services, at the end of 2009 management was able to identify cost cutting measures of over $1 million on an annualized basis. These cost saving are being fully implement in the first quarter of 2010, and additional efficiencies are also being examined.
"Although others might have been focused purely on the current period, we recognized the need in 2009 to focus on building an infrastructure that would allow us to optimize the opportunity we see to aggregate the sleep diagnostic and treatment space," said Stanton Nelson, Chairman and CEO of Graymark Healthcare. "Industry consolidation can only be successful if the acquiring entity possesses best demonstrated operating practices and the leadership to quickly integrate those practices within acquired entities while maintaining a high level of quality clinical practice, customer service and staff morale. We are happy with our progress in 2009 and are looking forward to driving consolidation in the marketplace with our quality and efficiency in 2010 and beyond. We can now demonstrate leadership in quality of care combined with an optimized cost to serve." Nelson continued.
For 2009, consolidated net revenues were $107.2 million, an increase of 11% over 2008 revenue of $96.6 million. This included a net revenue increase of 16% for the Company's Sleep Management Solutions or SMS segment, comprised of our sleep diagnostic and sleep therapy business to $17.6 million in 2009 from $15.2 million in 2008 and an increase of 10% for the Company's ApothecaryRx segment, which owns and operates independent retail pharmacies, to $89.7 million for 2009, from 2008 revenue of $81.3 million.
After-tax net loss attributable to Graymark was approximately ($5.2 million) for 2009, or a loss of ($0.18) per diluted share, compared to net income of $0.7 million, or $0.03 per diluted share for 2008. Included in the net loss for 2009 are expenses of $0.5 million related to the acquisitions we made during the third quarter and the change in accounting estimate in the second quarter of $2.6 million, as well as a onetime expense reduction related to a legal settlement net of related legal fees of $0.4 million.
The increase in net revenue for the SMS segment was due primarily to a $4.0 million contribution from the Somni and Eastern Q3 acquisitions and $2.3 million in incremental revenue from new sleep labs acquired or opened in 2008 and 2009. These increases were offset by a decrease in same store revenues of $4.0 million, which is due to a combination of lower volumes and lower average revenue per sleep study compared to 2008. Revenue in our existing sleep therapy business was flat in 2009 compared to 2008 as lower sleep study volumes translated to fewer CPAP set-ups in 2009. The reduced set-up volume was offset by the successful growth of our PRSP or re-supply business which we instituted in 2009. Gross margin for the Company's SMS segment was 56%, compared to 62% in 2008; the decrease driven primarily by the lower average net revenue per sleep study in 2009. 2009 net loss for SMS was ($4.0 million) compared to net income of $1.9 million for 2008. The onetime adjustment related to the change in accounting estimate of $2.6 million was recorded in our SMS segment.
The increase in revenue for the ApothecaryRx segment was primarily due to the full year impact of pharmacies acquired in March and June of 2008, partially offset by a slight decline in same store revenues driven by the continued shift towards generic drugs, which have a lower revenue per script compared to brand, and a decline in front-end sales, which we attribute to the continued softness in the general economy driving lower discretionary purchases. Gross margin for the ApothecaryRx segment was 24% in both 2009 and 2008. 2009 net income for ApothecaryRx increased 126% to $2.0 million compared to $0.9 million in 2008. The $0.4 million onetime favorable legal settlement net of legal fees was in this segment. During 2009, Graymark Healthcare owned and operated 18 retail pharmacies in five states.
Graymark Healthcare, Inc. is a diversified medical holding company that owns and operates diagnostic sleep centers that treat a wide range of sleep disorders; independent pharmacies that serve the needs of local markets; and a medical equipment company that provides both disposable and durable medical equipment. Graymark plans to continue its growth both internally and through strategic acquisitions within the medical industry.
]]>Introduced by the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) to educate the public about the importance of sleep to both health and lifestyle, National Sleep Awareness Week® is March 7-13, 2010.
One very common, but major detriment to adequate, high quality sleep is snoring. NSF research suggests that:
Historically, snoring has been considered an inconvenience rather than a serious medical condition. That perception is rapidly changing. The effects of sleep loss caused by snoring include fatigue, lack of focus and productivity. But more importantly, research now indicates a strong link between loss of sleep and medical conditions such as stroke, heart attack, diabetes and hypertension. Snoring can also have a significant lifestyle impact on couples, and can be a cause of tension or resentment in a marriage or relationship.
SERENO, THE CENTER FOR SNORING SOLUTIONS, a new medical practice based in San Francisco, offers leading-edge, medically proven treatments for snoring in a confidential, professional environment.
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A recent Sereno patient had the following to say about his treatment, "The level of excellence from pre-patient to post-patient care to results far exceeded my cautious optimism. Last night was the first time since childhood that I didn't snore during a night's sleep. I, along with my father, underwent the minimally invasive procedure to reduce/cure snoring. Our significant others, the true beneficiaries, have been thrilled with the results. Clearly, I'm a believer and so is my father. We recommend this procedure for all our fellow snorers."
Dr. Matthew Mingrone has extensive experience treating snoring and obstructive sleep apnea and has worked with hundreds of patients whose snoring has had an impact on their marriages, relationships, work, quality of life, and general health. Using FDA-approved, minimally invasive procedures, which are virtually painless, Dr. Mingrone makes a positive difference in the lives of his patients. "We recognize the other health issues associated with lack of sleep caused by snoring. While each patient needs to be individually evaluated, we can make a substantial improvement to the condition in most people. Two things are certain: Snoring is nothing to be ashamed of. And snoring is definitely not funny."
Visit www.serenocenter.com to learn more.
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