Physicians World Communications Group Selects Horizon Live Distance Learning to Deliver Live Medical Education Over the Internet

Business Wire, Dec 15, 1998

NEW YORK--(BW HealthWire)--Dec. 14, 1998--

New Technology Enables Physicians and Healthcare Professionals to

Access Live Training and Information via Horizon

Horizon Live Distance Learning Inc., a leader in interactive group learning and Physicians World Communications Group, worldwide provider of Continuing Medical Education (CME), today announced that they have entered into an exclusive agreement to provide live CME courses, interactive programs, presentations and seminars via the Internet.

"We are extremely pleased to announce this worldwide partnership with PW," said Bob Clyatt, Chief Executive Officer, Horizon Live Distance Learning, Inc. "Their leading role in the industry will help spearhead this new advance in physician education, and demonstrate the power of live distance learning for keeping professionals up to date in their fields," Clyatt added.

Martin E. Cearnal, CEO of Physicians World, commented, "We reviewed the various options available to us and found Horizon to be the best Internet solution for bringing the power of live distance learning to physician and other healthcare audiences worldwide. The Internet is a natural extension of our business, as it offers physicians the convenience and flexibility to learn and interact with their peers without leaving their offices. PW live courses are scheduled to commence during Q1 1999."

How Horizon Live Distance Learning Works

Horizon's intuitive design blends the best of classroom and computer-based training in an easy-to-use classroom atmosphere - live over the Internet. Running entirely within a standard Web browser over a standard Internet connection, the Horizon system allows organizations to train clients and staff, as well as to hold meetings on-demand around the globe in a cost effective and timely manner. An instructor or host leading a classroom discussion can speak naturally to participants by using live audio capabilities, while displaying content materials on each participant's computer screen.

Participants receive and review materials such as slides, which can be in any Web-ready format, and quiz material in real time. Users can talk to each other and to the instructor by simply typing in questions and responses. A specialized private message option allows for sidebar conversation among participants. Sessions can be recorded for later use by individuals who missed the live event, or who just want to review classroom notes. Horizon incorporates Real Network's streaming audio and video as well as a proprietary Firewall Friendly(tm) messaging system which enables organizations to deliver classes through most corporate firewalls using their existing Intranet.

About Horizon

Horizon Live Distance Learning, based in New York, NY, is a leader in providing interactive group learning solutions on the Internet. Horizon connects geographically dispersed individuals via Web browser allowing real-time virtual group meetings in a classroom atmosphere. Horizon, previously a subsidiary of i/o 360 Digital Design, Inc., was spun off as a separate corporation in March 1998. Current clients and triallists include Reuters, Physicians World, Prentice-Hall, Computer Sciences Corporation, Amdahl, Financial Courseware, Process Sciences, and a major credit card company, among others. Live class demonstrations are offered at the Horizon Web site at www.horizonlive.com every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, or by request. To pilot Horizon products and services, interested organizations should call Horizon Live Distance Learning at 212-533-1775 or visit the Company's Web site to learn more about the product.

About PW

Physicians World Communications Group, based in Secaucus, NJ, develops medical education and communication programs. PW's Professional Postgraduate Services division is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to sponsor continuing medical education activities for physicians. With joint ventures and strategic alliances in Europe, Asia and Latin America, PW produces worldwide medical education programs. PW's Health Economics Research division conducts prospective and retrospective pharmacoeconomic studies and is recognized as a leader in health economic studies and research. Now in its 26th year, PW employs 200 medical, pharmacoeconomics communication and education specialists. PW is a privately held partnership.