NORTHAMPTON, Mass., January 14, 2003 � Healthcommunities.com, with support from Boston Scientific�s Microvasive Urology Division, has launched a continuing medical education (CME) program that is distinctive in its use of streaming video, audio, graphics and text to deliver course content. The course is available on CD-Rom or online at Healthcommunities.com�s http://www.cmechannel.com.

The program �Lower Pole Stones: Insight from the Lower Pole 1 Study� features a discussion of the landmark study published in the December 2001 issue of the Journal of Urology contrasting the outcomes of shock wave lithotripsy and percutaneous removal of lower pole kidney stones. Urologists Glenn M. Preminger, MD James E. Lingeman, MD and Larry C. Munch, MD share their insights as study participants regarding best practices, especially for 1 to 2 cm. stones, a so-called "gray area" for clinical decision making.

�The results of the study described in this course are relevant for every urologist who treats kidney stones,� said Stanley J. Swierzewski III, M.D., urologist and CMEchannel medical advisor. The course is available free of charge. Urologists who complete the course earn one category 1 ACCME credit and qualify for a maximum of 1 hour in category 1 credit toward the AMA Physician's Recognition Award.

Healthcommunities.com, Inc., a privately held company founded in 1998, develops innovative resources for health care consumers and professionals. The company�s medical specialty Web channels, in partnership with leading pharmaceutical and medical technology companies, serve health care consumers searching for reliable information. Healthcommunities.com is a physician developed and monitored online community providing medical information and resources in a trusted environment.