Internet prescriptions boom in the 'wild west' of the Web
Article Abstract:
The spectacular growth of the electronic drug market is causing an uproar in Congress, in federal agencies and among those concerned with ethics and law. The American Medical Association reports that physicians who write on-line prescriptions are breaking ethics, not the law. When patient and doctor are strangers, the dangers are to the former, who doesn't know where the drugs are manufactured or whether he or she has a condition that would clash with the medication. The Food and Drug Administration, The Drug Enforcement Agency, the Federal Trade Commission no one has total authority to solve this problem. However, online pharmacists vouch strongly for their ethics and feel they are the antidote to the paternalism of the medical establishment.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1999
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For neighborhoods in many cities, virtual community centers
Article Abstract:
E.Central has obtained $30,000 each from 6 sponsors for a year's worth of advertising on its Neighborhood Link Web site (www.neighborhoodlink.com). This site aims to serve geographical communities across the US as a place to post information and discuss local matters. Presently, the service is available in 11 metropolitan areas. Three factors the E.Central faces in increasing its audience are: first, there are already over a 100 grant-sponsored 'freenet' sites listed at the Seattle Community Network's site (www.scn.org). Second, much of the same information has traditionally been covered by local newspapers, who are also developing Web presences. Finally, access to computers varies from community to community.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1999
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The Web discovers its voice
Article Abstract:
The latest trend in online communication is voice chat. Rather than type messages back and forth, computer users are talking into their computers and receiving instant voice responses. Over the last six months, hundred of thousands of people have downloaded various versions of voice-chat software. The technology combines the benefits of instant messaging with the sense of personality that comes through in voice communications. Users can still use typed communications along with voice, allowing them to talk to one another and type private messages to other people in the chat room.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1999
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