Pfizer Partners for Generics in China; Athenahealth Buys Healthcare Data Services; McDonald’s Lists Calorie Counts - Health Minute for September 18, 2012

Pfizer and Zhejian Hisun Pharmaceuticals have launched a joint venture to develop, manufacture, and commercialize off-patent pharmaceutical products in China and global markets. Off-patent medicines, including branded generics, are one of the fastest-growing segments in the global market, and especially so in emerging markets, where cost and access are primary drivers. In China, branded generics account of 70 percent of the domestic market. Athenahealth is buying Healthcare Data Services to strengthen its ability to support health care organizations manage risk-based payment models. Details of the transaction were not released. Athenahealth provides on-demand billing, practice management, and electronic health record services to hospitals and doctors groups. McDonald’s will list calorie counts for all items on restaurant and drive-through menus nationwide, beginning this week. The move is designed to inform and help customers make nutrition-minded choices.