Featured Report: Access to EHR data 'overwhelmingly' positive for patients

This Week's Healthcare News



HealthDataManagement
CMS Clarifies Patient Volume Percentages Under Medicaid Meaningful Use
Apr,3,2013
by:+Joseph Goedert
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services in a new frequently asked question clarifies the issue of providers rounding up their patient volume percentage when attesting for meaningful use of electronic health records under Medicaid:
Read Report

MobiHealthNews
Digital health could solve primary care shortage, Frost analyst says
Apr,04,2013
by:+Neil Versel
If digital health technologies take hold the way many believe they will, the U.S. may no longer have to worry about a pressing shortage of primary care physicians, projected by the Association of American Medical Colleges to reach 65,800 doctors by 2025.

“There are a lot of ways to deliver primary care,” explains Greg Caressi, senior vice president for healthcare and life sciences at market analysis firm Frost & Sullivan. A key function of primary care is to screen to determine if a patient needs to see a specialist. Remote technology and midlevel providers are more than adequate for triage and testing, he says.

Read More

Med City News
We need a Public Health Graph to connect clinical, personal, social, and societal data
Apr,04, 2013
by:+ Mark Tobias
“Give us our damn data!” It’s a common refrain from patients, who want access to their medical records. Many assume they are entitled to information so intensely personal, learning too late that obtaining them is … a process.

The errors, oversights and treatment delays caused by a lack of access are heartbreaking and spur rightful indignation.

The promise of electronic health records is to improve patient access and engagement in their care, and make health care safer, higher quality, more affordable and more efficient’all at the same time. There is broad agreement that making digital records work is critical to fixing health care. Federal “meaningful use” (subscription required) requirements are providing the carrots and sticks necessary to spur adoption and get electronic systems to talk to each other and to patients. Physicians and hospitals have been paid an estimated $12.3 billion since the program started in 2011. Those not meeting requirements will face penalties in 2015.

Read Report

Featured Report: Access to EHR data 'overwhelmingly' positive for patients
Fierce EMR
Apr,01, 2013
by:+Marla Durben Hirsch
Providing patients with access to the information in their electronic health records "overwhelmingly" yielded positive benefits, according to a new study in the Journal of Medical Internet Research.

While patient review of their health data is an opportunity to engage them in their healthcare, some clinicians have expressed concern about such open access. The researchers, from the Veteran's Administration and elsewhere, sought to determine patients' actual experiences with such open access by studying the My HealtheVet EHR access pilot program. They used focus group interviews conducted at the Portland Ore.-based VA Medical Center, which had the highest percentage (72 percent) of enrollees in the pilot.

The researchers found that patients' access improved communication, coordination of care, and appointment follow-through. It also improved patients' knowledge of their own health, created a greater desire for self care, and increased their participation in their care.

Read Report








Hello Businesses Owner,

I am writing to you because our changing health care system will have a profound effect on all of us. Now that the election is over and the Supreme Court has ruled, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is not going away. It will not be repealed and it is up to us to make sure it will work for small businesses and individuals as it was intended to do.

That’s why I joined the Campaign for Better Health Care’s newly created Small Business Health Care Consortium (SBHCC). This consortium views the needs of small businesses and their employees as a top priority.

And, as a member of the Steering Committee of the SBHCC I am personally inviting you to join our network of small businesses who know that only through our collective voices that will assure that the Affordable Care Act live up to its goal of making healthcare affordable for all.

Discussions around health reform have been confusing and, sometimes, even misleading. It is the goal of the SBHCC to provide factual information about the changes that are already happening and those coming in the near future. The SBHCC discusses the benefits and opportunities of the ACA and what Illinois small businesses need to do to make sure this law will benefit them.

Many key components of the ACA are national in nature. For instance, small businesses currently providing health insurance to their employees could be eligible for a 35% tax credit. And, while employers with fewer than 50 full time employees are not required to provide health insurance, their employees can take advantage of the ACA’s benefits.

Other components will be implemented at the State level and these decisions will either enhance small businesses or provide another hurdle. One important component is that all states must implement a health insurance exchange (marketplace). These exchanges will include a rate review process with defined, easy to understand plans to consider and review side-by-side.

As small business owners we share many of the same, serious business challenges. It is my hope that you and your small business peers do want to learn more about the ACA. Let’s take this opportunity to act collectively to get control of health insurance costs and improve access to coverage. The opportunity to create positive change is now. It is about fairness and choices for small businesses. To that end I like for you to hear my own personal story about how the new healthcare law will effect me.

Please go to this link at Healthcare.gov to see my story Watch My Story

Then Join the SBHCC do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or thoughts. I may be reached at wireheadtec@gmail.com or Wirehead Technology

Sincerely,
Howard Lee
CIO
Wirehead Technology
Tel-312-286-8416

Featured Report:The 10 hottest 10 Things lists of 2012

Tech Republic
Dec,31,2012
by: Jody Gilbert
In 2012, the 10 Things blog covered everything from end-user support priorities to career strategies to decision factors around emerging technologies, new platforms, and proliferating mobile devices. Here’s our annual rundown of what sparked the most attention during the past year.
Read More

This Week's Wireless News

CIO Mobile
6 Steps IT Can Take to Bring Business Into Tablet Decisions
Dec,21,2012
by:Simon Yates &Ted Schadler
CIO — Tablets are the darlings of hypermobile employees and business leaders looking to improve their processes. Because each tablet-enabled business scenario is different, only business people--those meeting with customers, inspecting stores or sitting in decision meetings, for example--know what they really need from their tablets. However, a critical concern has come to light: IT dominates the tablet decision process--and it shouldn't.
Read Report

Yankee Group
Does BB10 Need Low-Cost Devices To Succeed?
Dec,28,2012
by: Wally Swain
Many in the mobile industry are pointing to the upcoming release of the BlackBerry 10 (BB10) platform to spark the turnaround of former smartphone market leader Research In Motion (RIM). But will the allure of new high-end devices be enough? According to technology blog BGR, RIM would be wise to tackle both the low and high ends of the smartphone market with BB10. While the likes of Apple and Samsung have demonstrated how lucrative the high end can be for handset manufacturers, much of RIM’s global reach is concentrated in emerging markets such as South Africa. The blog reported that carrier Vodacom has said it has 2.7 million BlackBerry users on its South African network. That may mean developing low-cost BB10 devices and pushing them out to such markets could be what really holds the key to RIM’s future success.
Read Report

Info World
7 tech trends that will help your business in 2013
Dec,31, 2012
by:John Brandon
In the enterprise, the more you know about the future, the better off you are. This allows executives to make plans for deployments, deal with IT dilemmas, and make sound contingency plans. Yet one trend is clear: What we know about technology now will change. Email used to be the standard for most corporate communication, but now the writing is on the wall, giving way to more immediate social transmissions. These seven trends for 2013 will likely affect many businesses of all sizes -- including yours.
Read Report

Small Business Healthcare Consortium

Hello Small Business Owners,
I am writing to you because our changing health care system will have a profound effect on all of us. Now that the election is over and the Supreme Court has ruled, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is not going away. It will not be repealed and it is up to us to make sure it will work for small businesses and individuals as it was intended to do. That’s why I joined the Campaign for Better Health Care’s newly created Small Business Health Care Consortium (SBHCC).

This consortium views the needs of small businesses and their employees as a top priority. And, as a member of the Steering Committee of the SBHCC, I am personally inviting you and asking you to invite your network of small businesses to participate in a one hour, educational free webinar about the Affordable Care Act on January 15th at 11:00am CST or January 16th at 3:30pm CST. Discussions around health reform have been confusing and, sometimes, even misleading. It is the goal of this free webinar to provide factual information about the changes that are already happening and those coming in the near future. It will discuss the benefits and opportunities of the ACA and what Illinois small businesses need to do to make sure this law will benefit them.

Follow this link to register for:
January 15th: https://cc.readytalk.com/cc/s/registrations/new?cid=ecg0qj9s21aq

January 16th: https://cc.readytalk.com/cc/s/registrations/new?cid=m2wt2unotbju

Many key components of the ACA are national in nature. For instance, small businesses currently providing health insurance to their employees could be eligible for a 35% tax credit. And, while employers with fewer than 50 full time employees are not required to provide health insurance, their employees can take advantage of the ACA’s benefits. Other components will be implemented at the State level and these decisions will either enhance small businesses or provide another hurdle. One important component is that all states must implement a health insurance exchange (marketplace). These exchanges will include a rate review process with defined, easy to understand plans to consider and review side-by-side. As small business owners we share many of the same, serious business challenges. It is my hope that you and your small business peers do want to learn more about the ACA. Let’s take this opportunity to act collectively to get control of health insurance costs and improve access to coverage.

The opportunity to create positive change is now. It is about fairness and choices for small businesses. Please register:
January 15th, 11am CST:
https://cc.readytalk.com/cc/s/registrations/new?cid=ecg0qj9s21aq
January 16th, 3:30pm CST:
https://cc.readytalk.com/cc/s/registrations/new?cid=m2wt2unotbju

And, do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or ideas. Reach me at 312-286-8416 email wireheadtec@gmail.com or Wirehead Technology Healthcare IT Serives at www.wireheadtec.com/Home.html Find a listing of our SBHCC Steering Committee members at: www.cbhconline.org/smallbusiness .

Sincerely,
Howard Lee CIO
Wirehead Technology

If you need answers to your Healthcare IT needs now visit our Healthcare Managed Services page at Wirehead Technology

Five Things You May Not Know About SBA Disaster Assistance

Five Things You May Not Know About SBA Disaster Assistance

Facts about SBA’s Disaster Program will be Presented During Free SBA/Agility Webinar

Advisory Date: March 28, 2012
Contact: Carol Chastang (202) 205-6987
Advisory Number: MA12-08
Internet Address: http://www.sba.gov/news

WASHINGTON – In the aftermath of a natural or man-made disaster, you don’t have to be a small business owner to get recovery assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration. But did you know that SBA’s disaster assistance program is the agency’s only direct loan program? Did you also know that SBA can provide assistance to communities in the aftermath of a disaster, independent of a Presidential disaster declaration?

Interesting and useful facts about the range and depth of SBA’s disaster assistance programs will be presented during the April 10 webinar hosted by Agility Recovery Solutions and SBA. The webinar will focus on questions typically asked by the public and local media after a disaster. In addition to clarifying SBA’s partnership with FEMA, we’ll also talk about SBA’s outreach to local banks to expand the support network for business recovery after a disaster.

SBA has partnered with Agility to offer business continuity strategies through its “PrepareMyBusiness” website. Visit www.preparemybusiness.org to access past webinars and get additional preparedness tips.

The SBA provides disaster recovery assistance in the form of low-interest loans to homeowners, renters, private nonprofits and businesses of all sizes. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov/disaster.

WHAT: “Five Things You May Not Know about SBA Disaster Assistance”
A presentation and a Question & Answer session

WHO: Mark Ihenacho, Public Information Officer, SBA Disaster Field Operations Center East; Carol Chastang, Public Affairs Specialist, SBA Office of Communications & Public Liaison.

WHEN: Tuesday, April 10, 2012 – 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. EDT

HOW: Space is limited. Register at https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/369141176

# # #

Are you Ready to be an Effective Communicator during a Crisis?

Are you Ready to be an Effective Communicator during a Crisis?

Get Tips on Disaster Planning During Free SBA/Agility Webinar

Advisory Date: February 1, 2012
Contact: Carol Chastang (202) 205-6987
Advisory Number: MA12-02
Internet Address: http://www.sba.gov/news

WASHINGTON – Because it’s easy for even the best leader to be overwhelmed when a crisis hits and misinformation shows up in a twitter feed, managing the flow of information about your company is crucial when an emergency occurs.

Get tips on how to plan a communications strategy that will eliminate confusion and support your recovery efforts during a free webinar on February 14, hosted by the U.S. Small Business Administration and Agility Recovery Solutions.

The discussion will help you assess your company’s needs, identify a good spokesperson and develop fact sheets and talking points.

SBA has partnered with Agility to offer business continuity strategies through its “PrepareMyBusiness” website. Visit www.preparemybusiness.org to access past webinars and get additional preparedness tips.

The SBA provides disaster recovery assistance in the form of low-interest loans to homeowners, renters, private nonprofits and businesses of all sizes. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov/disaster.

WHO: Bob Boyd, President and CEO, Agility Recovery Solutions

WHAT: “Crisis Communications Planning—The Keystone of Disaster Recovery Response” will be presented by Boyd. A question and answer session will follow.

WHEN: Tuesday, February 14, 2012 – 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. EST

HOW: Space is limited. Register at https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/421917136

SBA to Honor Small Businesses at National Small Business Week May 20-22 in Washington, D.C.

SBA to Honor Small Businesses at National Small Business Week May 20-22 in Washington, D.C.

Event Features Awards, Forums and the Naming of National Small Business
Person of the Year – Events Open to the Public

Release Date: February 2, 2012
Contact: Dennis Byrne (202) 205-6567
Cecelia Taylor (202) 401-3059
Release Number: 12-05
Internet Address: http://www.sba.gov/news

WASHINGTON – The nation’s top entrepreneurs will be honored at the U.S. Small Business Administration’s National Small Business Week events May 20-22 in Washington, D.C. A series of award ceremonies, small business events and educational forums will mark the 59th anniversary of the agency and the 49th annual proclamation of National Small Business Week.

National Small Business Week is cosponsored by the SCORE Association as well as numerous corporate and trade sponsors to be announced.

More than 100 outstanding small business owners from across the country will receive awards while gathering for three days at the city’s Mandarin Oriental Hotel. They will meet with top administration officials, congressional representatives and national business leaders. The highlight of the celebration will be the announcement of the National Small Business Person of the Year.

“Small business owners and employees across America are proving their resiliency as they continue to help drive economic recovery, economic growth and job creation,” said SBA Administrator Karen Mills. “National Small Business Week gives us an opportunity to honor their achievements and the spirit of entrepreneurship, innovation and determination that makes them the engine of our economy and our nation’s economic recovery.”

Men and women also will be recognized for their involvement in disaster recovery, government contracting and their support for small businesses and entrepreneurship, and awards will be presented to SBA partners in financial and entrepreneurial development, including the year’s top SCORE Chapter, Small Business Development Center and Women’s Business Center.

Interested parties can register online at www.nationalsmallbusinessweek.com where additional information (updated weekly) is available regarding registration, awards ceremonies, small business forums and educational and matchmaking sessions. The event also will be webcast live at the web site.

What Did We Learn From 2011’s Natural Disasters?

News Advisory
What Did We Learn From 2011’s Natural Disasters?

Disaster Planning Tips Discussed During Free Webinar
Hosted by SBA and Agility Recovery Solutions

Advisory Date: January 6, 2012
Contact: Carol Chastang (202) 205-6987
Advisory Number: MA12-01
Internet Address: http://www.sba.gov/news

WASHINGTON – Natural disasters exacted a significant financial toll on the United States in 2011. The Insurance Information Institute reports that insured losses from a series of disasters – which included devastating spring tornadoes in the Midwest, floods in the southeast, wildfires in the southwest, and Hurricane Irene – totaled $35.9 billion.

Small businesses were hit particularly hard as many were forced to close during these disasters, causing economic injury to many that were already struggling. The factors that cause financial losses after a disaster, however, can be offset by having a recovery plan in place.

On Tuesday, January 17, Agility Recovery Solutions and the U.S. Small Business Administration will host a free webinar that looks at how natural disasters in 2011 caused business interruptions, with a focus on business continuity lessons learned. Agility President and CEO Bob Boyd will also discuss new trends and technology that affect disaster preparedness. The webinar will also offer practical strategies to protect your company closing its doors for good after a disaster.

SBA has partnered with Agility to offer business continuity strategies via its “PrepareMyBusiness” website. Visit www.preparemybusiness.org to access past webinars and get additional preparedness tips. The SBA provides disaster recovery assistance in the form of low-interest loans to homeowners, renters, private nonprofits and businesses of all sizes. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov/disaster.

WHO: Bob Boyd, President and CEO, Agility Recovery Solutions

WHAT: “2011 Year in Review—Disaster Recovery Lessons Learned” will be presented by Boyd. A question and answer session will follow.

WHEN: Tuesday, January 17, 2012 – 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. EST

HOW: Space is limited. Register at https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/180067536

Note: Copy and paste the above URL into your browser if the link is not live in your e-mail.

Are Your Leadership Skills Enough to Lead Your Company Through a Crisis?

Are Your Leadership Skills Enough to Lead Your Company Through a Crisis?

Get Tips During Free Webinar Hosted by SBA and Agility Recovery Solutions

Advisory Date: December 5, 2011
Contact: Carol Chastang (202) 205-6987
Advisory Number: MA11-32
Internet Address: http://www.sba.gov/news

WASHINGTON – Being a small business owner also makes you the person in charge of making sure everything flows without a hitch, from product development to the safety of your employees. Yet in the midst of a crisis or in the aftermath of a disaster the plans you made to keep your business open could become lost in the shuffle of stress and chaos.

On Tuesday, December 20, Agility Recovery Solutions and the U.S. Small Business Administration will host a webinar focusing on best practices to help those in leadership positions navigate the road to recovery. Agility president and CEO Bob Boyd will share real-world disaster recovery scenarios and engage participants in a discussion on practical strategies to develop the wisdom and skill needed to become a more resilient leader.

SBA has partnered with Agility to offer business continuity strategies via its “PrepareMyBusiness” website. Visit www.preparemybusiness.org to access past webinars and get additional preparedness tips.

The SBA provides disaster recovery assistance in the form of low-interest loans to homeowners, renters, private nonprofits and businesses of all sizes. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov/disaster.

WHO: Bob Boyd, President and CEO, Agility Recovery Solutions

WHAT: “Management Obligations during Disaster Recovery” will be presented by Boyd. A question and answer session will follow.

WHEN: Tuesday, December 20, 2011 – 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. EST

HOW: Space is limited. Register at https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/311203496

SBA’s Disaster Assistance Lending Marks $50 Billion Milestone

SBA’s Disaster Assistance Lending Marks $50 Billion Milestone

Since 1953 the SBA has approved more than 1.9 million loans to U.S. Residents and Businesses

Release Date: November 30, 2011
Contact: Carol Chastang (202) 205-9876
Release Number: 11-66
Internet Address: http://www.sba.gov/news

WASHINGTON – Emergency lending by the U.S. Small Business Administration to survivors of natural and man-made disasters since 1953 has surpassed $50 billion, SBA’s head of disaster response told members of the U.S. House Small Business Committee today at a hearing on federal disaster response programs.

“Since the agency’s founding in 1953,” said SBA Associate Administrator James Rivera, “the agency has made more than 1.9 million low-interest disaster loans worth more than $50 billion to homeowners, renters, nonprofit organizations and businesses of all sizes.”

The $50 billion in SBA assistance represents loans made to help residents and business owners recover from many of the most devastating disaster events in U.S. history. Since FY 1989, more than $36 billion in SBA disaster loans have been made, with significant portions of that total going to those rebuilding after the Northridge Earthquake in 1994 ($4 billion), 1997’s Upper Midwest Floods ($738 million), Hurricane Ivan in 2004 ($2.2 billion), and the 2005 Gulf Coast Hurricanes ($10.9 billion).

“Over the years SBA’s disaster assistance program has made it possible for small towns and large cities to rebuild, saving jobs and supporting the long-term economic recovery of areas that would have otherwise failed without the help,” said Rivera. “The SBA’s disaster loan program, with its low interest rates and reasonable terms make it possible for disaster victims to handle the cost of rebuilding and take the steps necessary to prevent the risk of being hit by a similar disaster.”

Disaster loans are the only form of SBA assistance not limited to small businesses. The SBA makes low-interest loans to homeowners, renters and non-farm businesses of all sizes. Homeowners may borrow up to $200,000 to repair or replace damaged real estate. Individuals may borrow up to $40,000 to cover losses to personal property.

Non-farm businesses and non-profit organizations of any size may apply for up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster damaged business assets and real property. Small businesses and non-profits that suffered economic losses as a direct result of the declared disaster may apply for a working capital loan up to $2 million, even if the property was not physically damaged.

More information about the disaster assistance program is available at www.sba.gov/disasterassistance.

Get the Business Case for Preparedness at Free Webinar

Get the Business Case for Preparedness at Free Webinar

Advisory Date: November 1, 2011
Contact: Carol Chastang (202) 205-6987
Advisory Number: MA11-29
Internet Address: http://www.sba.gov/news

WASHINGTON – Businesses everywhere are now operating on limited resources. Yet the survival of your company rests – particularly when faced with a disaster – on whether or not your key assets are protected. Developing a business continuity plan will not only reduce liabilities, but will ensure employee and customer retention, and may even reduce operational expenses.

On Tuesday, November 15, Agility Recovery Solutions and the U.S. Small Business Administration will host an online webinar focusing on how preparedness affects a company’s bottom line. Agility president & CEO Bob Boyd will review the far-reaching financial impact of having a plan in place to recover after a disaster.

SBA has partnered with Agility to offer business continuity strategies via its “PrepareMyBusiness” website. Visit www.preparemybusiness.org to access past webinars and get additional preparedness tips.

The SBA provides disaster recovery assistance in the form of low-interest loans to homeowners, renters, private nonprofits and businesses of all sizes. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov/disaster.

WHO: Bob Boyd, President & CEO, Agility Recovery Solutions

WHAT: “The Impact of Corporate Preparedness on the Bottom Line” will be presented by Boyd. A question and answer session will follow.

WHEN: Tuesday, November 15 – 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. ET

HOW: Space is limited. Register at https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/446675577

SBA-Proposed Size Standard Increases for Information and Administrative

SBA-Proposed Size Standard Increases for Information and Administrative Services Industries
Reflect Marketplace Changes

Release Date: October 13, 2011
Contact: Tiffani Clements (202) 401-0035
Release Number: 11-59
Internet Address: http://www.sba.gov/news

WASHINGTON – Proposed rules published today for comment in The Federal Register by the U.S. Small Business Administration would adjust the size definition of small businesses in 52 industries in two broad categories of businesses, ranging from travel agencies and movie production to waste management.

The proposed adjustments to size standards in 15 industries in Sector 51 of the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS), “Information,” and in 37 industries in Sector 56, “Administrative and Support, Waste Management and Remediation Services,” reflect changes in marketplace conditions in those sectors.

In both sectors, the proposed changes are based on annual gross revenues. The standards delineate how large a business can be and still qualify as small for federal government programs. The dollar limits refer to annual revenues averaged over three years.

As part of the ongoing comprehensive review of all size standards that began in 2007, the SBA evaluated all industries in these sectors that have revenue-based size standards to determine whether the existing size standards should be adjusted. Before 2007, the last overall review of size standards occurred more than 25 years ago. Under provisions in the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010, SBA will continue its comprehensive review of all size standards for several years.

The proposed changes take into account the structural characteristics within individual industries, including average firm size, degree of competition, and federal government contracting trends. This ensures that size definitions reflect current economic conditions within those industries.

The upward revisions would allow some small businesses that are close to exceeding their current size standards to retain small business eligibility under the proposed higher size standards, and give federal agencies a larger selection of small businesses to choose from for small business procurement opportunities. They also would allow more small businesses to qualify for SBA financial assistance. SBA estimates that up to 500 more firms in Sector 51 and 2,700 more companies in Sector 56 will qualify for SBA assistance and other federal programs if the proposed revisions are adopted.

An SBA White Paper entitled “Size Standards Methodology” was issued on Oct. 21, 2009, explaining how SBA establishes, reviews and modifies its receipts-based and employee-based small business size standards. It is available for viewing at http://www.sba.gov/size.

Interested parties can submit comments on these proposed rules on or before Dec. 12, 2011. The SBA recommends that comments be submitted online at www.regulations.gov or mailed to Khem R. Sharma, Chief, Size Standards Division, 409 3rd St., SW, Mail Code 6530, Washington, D.C. 20416. The SBA will post all comments to www.regulations.gov for public review. The SBA does not accept comments submitted by email.

For more information about SBA’s revisions to its small business size standards, click on “What’s New with Size Standards” on SBA’s website at http://www.sba.gov/size.

The proposed rule would affect the following industries in NAICS Sector 51:

NAICS NAICS industry title Current Size Standards Proposed Size Standard
code ($ million) ($ million)
511210 Software Publishers $25.0 $35.5
512110 Motion Picture and Video Production $29.5 $30.0
512131 Motion Picture Theaters (except Drive Ins) $7.0 $35.5
512199 Other Motion Picture and Video Industries $7.0 $19.0
512290 Other Sound Recording Industries $7.0 $10.0
515111 Radio Networks $7.0 $30.0
515112 Radio Stations $7.0 $35.5
515120 Television Broadcasting $14.0 $35.5
515210 Cable and Other Subscription Programming $15.0 $35.5
517410 Satellite Telecommunications $15.0 $30.0
517919 All Other Telecommunications $25.0 $30.0
518210 Data Processing, Hosting, and Related $25.0 $30.0
Services
519110 News Syndicates $7.0 $25.5
519120 Libraries and Archives $7.0 $14.0
519190 All Other Information Services $7.0 $25.5

The proposed rule would affect the following industries in NAICS Sector 56:

NAICS NAICS Industry Title Current Size Standard Proposed Size Standard
Codes ($ million) ($ million)
561311 Employment Placement Agencies $7.0 $25.5
561312 Executive Search Services $7.0 $25.5
561320 Temporary Help Services $13.5 $25.5
561330 Professional Employer Organizations $13.5 $25.5
561410 Document Preparation Services $7.0 $14.0
561421 Telephone Answering Services $7.0 $14.0
561422 Telemarketing Bureaus and Other contact Centers $7.0 $14.0
561431 Private Mail Centers $7.0 $14.0
561439 Other Business Service Centers (including Copy Shops) $7.0 $14.0
561440 Collection Agencies $7.0 $14.0
561450 Credit Bureaus $7.0 $14.0
561491 Repossession Services $7.0 $14.0
561492 Court Reporting and Stenotype Services $7.0 $14.0
561499 All Other Business Support Services $7.0 $14.0
561510 Travel Agencies $3.5 $19.0
561520 Tour Operators $7.0 $19.0
561591 Convention and Visitors Bureaus $7.0 $19.0
561599 All Other Travel Arrangement and Reservation Services $7.0 $19.0
561611 Investigation Services $12.5 $19.0
561612 Security Guards and Patrol Services $18.5 $19.0
561613 Armored Car Services $12.5 $19.0
561621 Security Systems Services (except Locksmiths) $12.5 $19.0
561622 Locksmiths $7.0 $19.0
561710 Exterminating and Pest Control Services $7.0 $10.0
561740 Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning Services $4.5 $5.0
561910 Packaging and Labeling Services $7.0 $10.0
561920 Convention and Trade Show Organizers $7.0 $10.0
561990 All Other Support Services $7.0 $10.0
562111 Solid Waste Collection $12.5 $35.5
562112 Hazardous Waste Collection $12.5 $35.5
562119 Other Waste Collection $12.5 $35.5
562211 Hazardous Waste Treatment and Disposal $12.5 $35.5
562212 Solid Waste Landfill $12.5 $35.5
562213 Solid Waste Combustors and Incinerators $12.5 $35.5
562219 Other Nonhazardous Waste Treatment and Disposal $12.5 $35.5
562910 Remediation Services $14.0 $19.0
562920 Materials Recovery Facilities $12.5 $19.0

Free Tips on Protecting Your Company From Winter Weather Disasters

Free Tips on Protecting Your Company From Winter Weather Disasters

Advisory Date: October 13, 2011
Contact: Carol Chastang (202) 205-6987
Advisory Number: MA11-27
Internet Address: http://www.sba.gov/news

WASHINGTON – Whether it’s pounding, relentless rainstorms or massive snowstorms, winter weather presents many risks for business shutdowns, property damage and loss of life. Now is a good time to make a plan to stay open for business, while protecting your employees and customers from the dangers of severe winter weather.

On Tuesday, October 18, Agility Recovery Solutions and the U.S. Small Business Administration will host another in a series of business continuity webinars, focusing on best practices to mitigate risks posed by the winter season. Weather expert Fred Schmude, of ImpactWeather, a company that provides worldwide weather monitoring and business continuity planning for businesses, will discuss winter weather predictions and share tips on how to prepare before the disaster hits.

SBA has partnered with Agility to offer business continuity strategies via its “PrepareMyBusiness” website. Visit www.preparemybusiness.org to access past webinars and get additional preparedness tips.

The SBA provides disaster recovery assistance in the form of low-interest loans to homeowners, renters, private nonprofits and businesses of all sizes. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov/disaster.

WHO: Fred Schmude, Storm Watch Manager, ImpactWeather

WHAT: “Preparing your Business for the Winter Weather Season” will be presented by Schmude. A question and answer session will follow.

WHEN: Tuesday, October 18 – 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. EDT

HOW: Space is limited. Register at https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/401629152

Disaster Recovery Tips and Advice Offered for Homeowners and Businesses

Disaster Recovery Tips and Advice Offered for
Homeowners and Businesses
---
Thursday, September 29, 2011, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., ET

Advisory Date: September 22, 2011
Contact: Cecelia Taylor (202) 401-3059
Advisory Number: MA11-22
Internet Address: http://www.sba.gov/news

NOTE: Plain text URLs may not be live links in your e-mail. Please copy and paste them into your browser to visit the sites linked.

WASHINGTON – In recent weeks many have experienced disaster first-hand, including record-breaking floods caused by hurricane Irene last month. After a disaster strikes, homeowners and businesses can face many challenges in their rebuilding and recovery efforts. This month’s web chat will focus on what homeowners and businesses need to know after a disaster. September’s web chat hosts Phae Howard and Michael Mitravich will highlight key aspects of structural mitigation, rebuilding and preparedness.

WHO: Phae Howard, executive director of the National Center for the Prevention of Home Improvement Fraud, and Michael Mitravich of the SBA’s Office of Disaster Assistance will host September’s web chat on Disaster Recovery for Business Owners: An Inside View. Chat participants can get answers to questions such as how to select a credible contractor, what questions to ask when their property damage is assessed, or on what do to if just dealing with water damage.

WHAT: SBA’s web chat series provides small business owners with a chance to discuss relevant business issues online with experts, industry leaders and successful entrepreneurs. Chat participants have direct, real-time access to the web chats via questions they submit online in advance, and during the live session. Chat participants can receive helpful tips and advice on how to recover after a disaster.

WHEN: September 29, 2011, 1 p.m. ET.
Howard and Mitravich will answer questions for one hour.

HOW: Web chat participants can post questions online in advance and on September 29, join the live web chat by going online to www.sba.gov, and click on the web chat event under What’s New.
To review archives of past web chats, visit online at http://www.sba.gov/tools/monthlywebchat/index.html

# # #

Business Owners to Share Post-Disaster Survivor Tips

Business Owners to Share Post-Disaster Survivor Tips
During SBA & Agility Recovery Solutions Free Webinar

Advisory Date: September 22, 2011
Contact: Carol Chastang (202) 205-6987
Advisory Number: MA11-23
Internet Address: http://www.sba.gov/news

Please note: Hyperlinked URLs in this plain text e-mail may not by live in your e-mail. You can copy and paste them into your browser to reach the web sites cited.

WASHINGTON – Any crisis in a disaster situation, from a server malfunction to a flooded basement, could a business to close its, reducing productivity and profits and possibly resulting in a permanent shut-down. Next week, in the fourth of four weekly webinars during National Preparedness Month, the U.S. Small Business Administration and Agility Recovery Solutions three business owners who faced losses of property and income after a disaster will share their experiences and what they learned about preparing for the next disaster.

On Wednesday, Sept. 28, bank vice president Scott Jenkins, insurance company president Terry Flood, and Joel Simpson, vice president of a plastics and glass supplier, will described how their companies recovered from losses caused, respectively, by a tornado, water damages from a burst pipe, and flooding. The three will also offer tips on how to protect themselves and their bottom line, based on their own experiences.

SBA has partnered with Agility to offer business continuity strategies via their “PrepareMyBusiness” website. Visit www.preparemybusiness.org to access past webinars and get additional preparedness tips.

The SBA provides disaster recovery assistance in the form of low-interest loans to homeowners, renters, private nonprofits and businesses of all sizes. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov/disaster.

WHO: Scott Jenkins, Senior VP, Worthington Federal Bank, Huntsville, Ala.
Terry Flood, President, The Flood Group, Long Island, NY
Joel Simpson, VP Sales & Marketing, The O. Berk Company, Union,NJ

WHAT: “Survivor Panel—Real World Lessons Learned” will be presented by Jenkins, Flood and Simpson. A question and answer session will follow.

WHEN: Wednesday, September 28 – 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. EDT

HOW: Space is limited. Register at https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/660249057

SBA & Agility Recovery Solutions Host Free Webinar on the “10 Basic Steps toward Business Disaster Preparedness”

SBA & Agility Recovery Solutions Host Free Webinar on the
“10 Basic Steps toward Business Disaster Preparedness”

Advisory Date: September 8, 2011
Contact: Carol Chastang (202) 205-6987
Advisory Number: MA11-19
Internet Address: http://www.sba.gov/news

WASHINGTON – Businesses nationwide are currently in the process of recovering from a year of costly natural disasters. Insurance industry experts say insured catastrophic losses have exceeded $17 billion during the first half of 2011, more than the $13 billion total for all of 2010.

Recent hurricanes, floods and wildfires are reminders that business owners should have a plan to protect their assets, recover quickly and be ready for the next emergency. During National Preparedness Month, the U.S. Small Business Administration and Agility Recovery Solutions are hosting weekly webinars aimed at helping business owners take responsibility for the economic well-being of their own companies, as well as their communities.

On Wednesday, September 14, James Rivera, SBA’s associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Assistance will talk about the essential items business owners should include in their business continuity plans. The presentation will include an overview on preparing a supply chain, developing a communications plan, and assessing risk.

SBA has partnered with Agility to offer business continuity strategies for entrepreneurs via their “PrepareMyBusiness” website. Visit www.preparemybusiness.org to access past webinars and get additional preparedness tips.

The SBA provides disaster recovery assistance in the form of low-interest loans to homeowners, renters, private nonprofits and businesses of all sizes. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov/disaster.

WHO: James Rivera, Associate Administrator, SBA Office of Disaster Assistance

WHAT: “10 Commandments of Disaster Preparedness” will be presented by Rivera. A question and answer session will follow.

WHEN: Wednesday, September 14 at 2:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. EDT

HOW: Space is limited. Register at https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/767371552

SBA and Agility Recovery Solutions Host Webinar on Disaster Recovery Best Practices

SBA and Agility Recovery Solutions Host Webinar on Disaster Recovery Best Practices

Date: July 12, 2011
Contact: Carol Chastang (202) 205-6987
Advisory Number: MA11-14
Internet Address: http://www.sba.gov/news

WASHINGTON – Find out what business owners learned after nearly losing their companies to small scale disasters like a sprinkler system malfunction or catastrophic events like widespread flooding during a free webinar on July 19 hosted by Agility Recovery Solutions and the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Agility Recovery CEO Bob Boyd will share real stories of entrepreneurs whose business continuity strategies emerged while recovering from major disasters. He’ll also outline some practical applications of disaster preparedness tips, focusing on the concept of not only putting a plan together, but testing it periodically.

Recent events serve as a reminder that disasters have a far-reaching effect in terms of undermining small business success and the revival of local economies. Being prepared for any worst-case scenario will lessen the financial losses and business failures that typically accompany a natural or man-made emergency.

SBA has partnered with Agility to offer business continuity strategies for entrepreneurs via their “PrepareMyBusiness” website. Visit www.preparemybusiness.org to access previous webinars and for more preparedness tips.

Since 1953, the SBA has provided more than $48 billion in disaster recovery funds to 1.9 million homeowners, renters and businesses of all sizes in the form of low-interest loans. To learn more about the disaster assistance program, visit www.sba.gov/disaster.

WHO: SBA, Agility Recovery Solutions

WHAT: “Disaster Recovery Best Practices & Lessons Learned” will be presented by Bob Boyd, CEO, Agility Recovery Solutions. A question and answer session will follow.

WHEN: Tuesday, July 19, 2011, from 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. EDT

HOW: Space is limited. Register at https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/799917864

SBA and the American Red Cross Join to Help Individuals and Businesses Prepare for Disasters

SBA and the American Red Cross Join to Help
Individuals and Businesses Prepare for Disasters

Release Date: July 6, 2011
Contact: Carol Chastang (202) 205-6987
Release Number: 11-44
Internet Address: http://www.sba.gov/news

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Small Business Administration and the American Red Cross have joined forces to intensify outreach efforts to educate the public about the importance of having a disaster recovery plan in place.

“Given the recent devastation caused by tornadoes and flooding in communities from New England and the Midwest to the Southern states, and the start of the Atlantic Hurricane season, we recognize the importance of helping people learn how to protect themselves,” said SBA Administrator Karen Mills. “This collaboration with the Red Cross will allow us to draw on each other’s resources to make emergency preparedness a way of life for individuals and businesses.”
“Studies show that between 15 percent to 40 percent of businesses fail following a natural or man-made disaster,” said Gail McGovern, president and CEO of the American Red Cross. “By partnering with the SBA to get more families and businesses prepared for emergencies, we hope to save both lives and livelihoods.”

The core of the SBA-Red Cross agreement is a plan to work with SBA District Offices and its resource partners such as SCORE, the Small Business Development Centers and the Women’s Business Development Centers to promote and, along with local Red Cross chapters, sponsor preparedness training workshops. The two agencies will also work to increase awareness in the business community about the Red Cross Ready Rating™ program. Ready Rating (www.readyrating.org) ™ is a free, self-paced, web-based membership program that helps a business measure its ability to deal with emergencies, and gives customized feedback on how to improve those efforts.

Materials on the Ready Rating program and other disaster preparedness tips will be disseminated to the public virtually, and via printed materials.

Recent disasters have served as a reminder for individuals and businesses to make a plan. Disaster preparedness for homes and businesses should include a review of your property insurance to make sure you understand what is and isn’t covered. Make backup copies of important documents, and store them at an offsite location. Put together an emergency kit, which contains first-aid supplies, cash, bottled water, non-perishable food, a flashlight and plastic garbage bags.

For more preparedness tips for homes and businesses, visit www.sba.gov/disasterassistance.
# # #

SBA and the American Red Cross Join to Help Individuals and Businesses Prepare for Disasters

SBA and the American Red Cross Join to Help
Individuals and Businesses Prepare for Disasters

Release Date: July 6, 2011
Contact: Carol Chastang (202) 205-6987
Release Number: 11-44
Internet Address: http://www.sba.gov/news

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Small Business Administration and the American Red Cross have joined forces to intensify outreach efforts to educate the public about the importance of having a disaster recovery plan in place.

“Given the recent devastation caused by tornadoes and flooding in communities from New England and the Midwest to the Southern states, and the start of the Atlantic Hurricane season, we recognize the importance of helping people learn how to protect themselves,” said SBA Administrator Karen Mills. “This collaboration with the Red Cross will allow us to draw on each other’s resources to make emergency preparedness a way of life for individuals and businesses.”
“Studies show that between 15 percent to 40 percent of businesses fail following a natural or man-made disaster,” said Gail McGovern, president and CEO of the American Red Cross. “By partnering with the SBA to get more families and businesses prepared for emergencies, we hope to save both lives and livelihoods.”

The core of the SBA-Red Cross agreement is a plan to work with SBA District Offices and its resource partners such as SCORE, the Small Business Development Centers and the Women’s Business Development Centers to promote and, along with local Red Cross chapters, sponsor preparedness training workshops. The two agencies will also work to increase awareness in the business community about the Red Cross Ready Rating™ program. Ready Rating (www.readyrating.org) ™ is a free, self-paced, web-based membership program that helps a business measure its ability to deal with emergencies, and gives customized feedback on how to improve those efforts.

Materials on the Ready Rating program and other disaster preparedness tips will be disseminated to the public virtually, and via printed materials.

Recent disasters have served as a reminder for individuals and businesses to make a plan. Disaster preparedness for homes and businesses should include a review of your property insurance to make sure you understand what is and isn’t covered. Make backup copies of important documents, and store them at an offsite location. Put together an emergency kit, which contains first-aid supplies, cash, bottled water, non-perishable food, a flashlight and plastic garbage bags.

For more preparedness tips for homes and businesses, visit www.sba.gov/disasterassistance.
# # #