Combining statins for low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and calcium channel antagonists for blood pressure reduces harmful coronary plaque, according to a study presented at the Society of Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) 2015 Scientific Sessions in San Diego. The study, presented as a late-breaking clinical trial, found aggressive medication therapy does not provide additional benefit compared to standard cholesterol and blood pressure-lowering therapy.

ScImage announced that it has received validation for its PICOM365 enterprise picture archiving and communication system (PACS) within the framework of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) system. The solution was validated as “Supported for HL7 Communication” with VHA’s VistA Imaging system.

A new independent evaluation report from the Department of Health and Human Services showed that the Pioneer Accountable Care Organization (ACO) payment model has generated substantial savings to Medicare in just two years. Additionally, the independent Office of the Actuary in the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has certified that this patient care model is the first to meet the stringent criteria for expansion to a larger population of Medicare beneficiaries.

Pressure to create alternative payment models has led to a significant increase in provider interest in partnering with Premier Inc. to develop and implement population health management strategies.