Digital Transformation

This evolution of healthcare involves using technology to improve diagnosis, treatments, monitor patients, enhance hospital operations and culture, and bolster consumer-focused care. This includes virtual reality tools, wearable devices, workflow software, health apps and other digital health tools.

From Capitol Hill to a hospital near you? 5 federal recommendations for healthcare AI policy
The 24 members of the House Task Force on AI—12 reps from each party—have posted a 253-page report detailing their bipartisan vision for encouraging innovation while minimizing risks.
Healthcare AI regulation needs nuance, balance: Research review
When regulating AI-equipped medical devices, the FDA might take a page from the Department of Transportation’s playbook for overseeing AI-equipped vehicles. These run the gamut from assisting human drivers to fully taking the wheel.
ICU diary-keeping: There’s an AI for that
Intensive care units around the world use daily diaries to track patients’ emotional as well as physical ups and downs. Many find that keeping these helpful resources can add to nurses’ already-heavy workloads. How might generative AI help?
Stanford HAI lookback: Best-read blog posts of 2024
The year 2023 saw a shift toward open-source AI models, surging investments in generative AI and increasing AI regulation.
Providers, payers share actionable experiences involving healthcare AI
A large venture capital firm focused on supporting early-stage healthtech companies has a tip for AI startups targeting the healthcare sector.

Healthcare workforce management company raises $200M

The funding comes at a time when the healthcare workforce is facing a major labor crunch.

February 8, 2023

CVS Health announces $10.6B acquisition of Oak Street Health

The deal was expected to be announced after several stories leaked that the two companies were in talks.

February 8, 2023

Justice Dept. takes down ransomware group targeting hospitals

The group targeted 1,500 victims in over 80 countries and received more than $100M since June 2021.

January 27, 2023

Walgreens may sell $2B pharmacy automation business

The move comes as Walgreens is shoring up its business amid a period of big transactions in the healthcare space.

January 26, 2023

Kroger launches colorectal clinical trial sites

Kroger’s latest move underscores how large companies in other industries are making their way into the healthcare space.

January 26, 2023

CVS Health launches new virtual primary care service

CVS Health has launched its new virtual primary care offering with 24/7 on-demand care and scheduled mental health services.

January 25, 2023

Amazon launches $5 prescription services program

The medications included in the program treat more than 80 conditions.

January 24, 2023

Animal testing no longer required for all new drugs approved by FDA

The bill was first introduced by Sens. Rand Paul (R-KY) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) in the Senate, and it was approved unanimously.

January 13, 2023

Around the web

Cardiovascular Business

FDA says years-long tirzepatide shortage is resolved, will give limited leeway to compounders

The tirzepatide shortage that first began in 2022 has been resolved. Drug companies distributing compounded versions of the popular drug now have two to three more months to distribute their remaining supply.

AI in Healthcare

From Capitol Hill to a hospital near you? 5 federal recommendations for healthcare AI policy

The 24 members of the House Task Force on AI—12 reps from each party—have posted a 253-page report detailing their bipartisan vision for encouraging innovation while minimizing risks.

Cardiovascular Business

Merck spends up to $2B to license new weight loss drug with potential heart benefits

Merck sent Hansoh Pharma, a Chinese biopharmaceutical company, an upfront payment of $112 million to license a new investigational GLP-1 receptor agonist. There could be many more payments to come if certain milestones are met.