Monday, July 9, 2012

** New South Wales, Australia considering property tax to fund emergency services

** US Navy medics use new portable infrared scanner to detect brain injuries in patients

AUSTRALIA NEWS

** In an effort to cover the increasing cost of emergency services, the state of New South Wales is considering imposing a $250 annual tax on households. That is the word from Sky News (July 6) which said the levy could raise as much as $1 billion a year for EMS, fire, and police. State Treasurer Mike Baird said current funding formulas are both inefficient and unfair. Current funding is achieved through both state and local governments, as well as insurance company taxes. South Australia, Queensland, and Western Australia already use the property levy system, while Victoria is preparing to switch over.

UNITED STATES NEWS

** US Navy medics working in the field or onboard ship can now use a new handheld device to detect brain injuries in patients. That is the word from the Navy Times (Gina Harkins/June 26) which said the battery operated infrared scanner, which resembles a Nintendo Wii controller, can examine four spots each on the right and left sides of the brain. According to the newspaper, the InfraScanner detects asymmetry between the sides to determine whether a bleed is present. Able to work on an unshaved head, the device can also detect higher hemoglobin where bleeds are located. The scans can be done in about 2 minutes. Weighing about 1 pound, the gadget is 3.5 inches by 2 inches.