Business Intelligence

Providers utilize business intelligence to monitor referral patterns and collaborate with clinicians who order their services. Such analytics tools have also been deployed in the specialty to improve productivity, track patient satisfaction and bolster quality.

Abbott acquires cancer diagnostic company Exact Sciences for $21B
The deal will not be finalized until approved by Exact Sciences’ shareholders. With it, Abbott gains control of new diagnostic tools, including a popular at-home test for colorectal cancer.
Trump’s former FDA commissioner joins board of UnitedHealth
Scott Gottlieb, MD, will take on the new position “effective immediately.” UnitedHealth Group did not say what, if any, steering committee the former FDA lead will sit on.
Cigna announces new copay-centric insurance model, backed by AI care coordination
Dubbed “Clearity,” the new health plans will have four tiers to choose from, allowing patients to select the provider and services that are right for them. The insurance is similar to a concierge care model, but backed by a potentially larger network.
Former COO of UnitedHealthcare subsidiary Optum Health promoted to CEO
Krista Nelson made the official announcement on LinkedIn. She replaces Patrick Conway, MD, CEO of the broader Optum, who had held dual roles. Nelson has been with UnitedHealthcare since 2017.
U.S. International Federal Trade Commission reviews ban on new Apple Watch pulse oximeter
Masimo’s complaint over the new version of the Apple Watch could lead to an import ban if it is found that the technology infringes on its patents.

Industry Watcher’s Digest

Buzzworthy developments of the past few days. The Sam Altman-Arianna Huffington ‘AI health coach’ has attracted detractors ...

DOJ investigating Steward Health Care over ties to foreign government

Citing two sources familiar with the matter, journalists at CBS News said the health system is suspected of violating the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. No charges have been filed.

'Well-resourced and innovation-focused hospitals should mentor and provide technical support to underfunded or smaller hospitals.'

How to mitigate institutional inequities involving AI

When it comes to adopting healthcare AI, large, well-off hospitals are likely to frequently homer while smaller, struggling institutions go down looking. (Baseball analogy in honor of tonight’s Midsummer Classic.)

Eli Lilly purchases Morphic and its Crohn's drug portfolio for $3.2B

Morphic's new treatment for inflammatory bowel disease is in Phase II clinical trials and shows promise in improving patient outcomes. Eli Lilly will purchase the company for $57 per share in cash.

Insurers accused of $50B fraud connected to Medicare Advantage plans

According to a report, from 2019 and 2021, Medicare Advantage plans put taxpayers on the hook for dubious care services.

doctor's open hand waiting for a payment

CMS proposes 2.8% pay cut for providers in 2025

The average payment rate to physicians is suggested to be reduced by 2.93% in 2025 under the proposed fee schedule change, the agency noted.

ai artificial intelligence in healthcare

Industry Watcher’s Digest

Buzzworthy developments of the past few days.

6 ways to convert GenAI adoption into real business value

Using the technology and making it work for purpose are two different things. And the U.S. leads all countries in terms of full implementation, at 24% (vs. 19% for China).

Business Intelligence

Abbott acquires cancer diagnostic company Exact Sciences for $21B

Trump’s former FDA commissioner joins board of UnitedHealth

Cigna announces new copay-centric insurance model, backed by AI care coordination

Former COO of UnitedHealthcare subsidiary Optum Health promoted to CEO

U.S. International Federal Trade Commission reviews ban on new Apple Watch pulse oximeter