pacemaker

Implantable devices, such as hip replacements and heart valves, are a central part of medical treatment today. Americans receive about 370,000 cardiac pacemakers and about 1 million total hip and knee replacements per year. Despite how common the use of implantable devices is, little information is publicly available on the prices paid for these devices in the United States. Limited information about prices and performance of many implantable devices has raised concerns that providers, consumers and insurers may be paying too much for these devices.

What medical innovations will have the biggest impact in 2015?

News, discoveries and ... fun

If you like to lie on the couch - or in bed - with your iPad propped on your chest, you could be putting yourself at risk if you also have an implanted heart device.

Some call it the "bonus years," others call it a challenge.  Either way, we're living longer lives (in 1900, the average life expectancy was about 47...now it's about 78) and more than ever we want to remain active, healthy and most importantly independent . And for most, that means one thing: AARP research indicates 9 out of 10 people want to stay in their own homes as they age. With retirement lasting as much as 20, 30 or even 40 years for some, how will we pull off this lofty goal?