UnitedHealthcare will launch a national program on October 1, allowing physicians to bypass traditional prior authorization requirements. The Gold Card program applies to commercial, individual exchange, and Medicare Advantage plans, enabling qualified practices to submit simple advance notifications instead of prior authorization requests. Practices must have a 92% approval rate for prior authorizations over two consecutive years to be eligible. The program aims to streamline the healthcare experience, though UnitedHealthcare did not comment on potential increases in post-procedure denials.
Author: Abhay Panchal
AbbVie is expanding its presence in the gastroenterology market with the FDA approval of Skyrizi for ulcerative colitis. The company is positioning Skyrizi and Rinvoq as successors to Humira, aiming to boost sales and address the decline in Humira’s revenue. Despite economic challenges affecting other segments, AbbVie has raised its 2024 earnings forecast based on the strong performance of its immunology drugs.
GI Alliance has announced its partnership with Klara, a healthcare communication platform, to enhance its patient engagement services across the United States. This initiative aims to implement Klara’s solution to over 15 million customers nationwide, streamlining communication and improving patient experience. The Klara platform offers features like secure messaging, appointment scheduling, and patient education, which are designed to facilitate more efficient interactions between patients and healthcare providers.
The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) has introduced a new clinician toolkit designed to support healthcare professionals in the management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). This comprehensive resource aims to provide the latest guidelines, evidence-based practices, and practical tools to enhance patient care for those suffering from IBS. The toolkit includes a range of materials such as diagnostic algorithms, treatment options, patient education resources, and tips for managing complex cases.
The article from the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) discusses the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance operational efficiency and prevent physician burnout in gastroenterology. It highlights how AI can streamline administrative tasks, improve diagnostic accuracy, and reduce workload, thereby allowing physicians to focus more on patient care. The piece emphasizes the need for careful implementation to maximize benefits and minimize challenges.
The article from Medical Economics explores the increasing trend of health care consolidation, highlighting its impact on the industry. Consolidation often results in larger healthcare systems, which can lead to higher prices and reduced competition. While some argue that it can improve efficiency and care coordination, others are concerned about the potential negative effects on patient care and access. The article examines the reasons behind this trend and its implications for healthcare providers and patients.
Amulet Capital Partners has successfully closed its third niche life sciences fund, raising significant capital to invest in subsectors such as healthcare services, medical devices, and pharmaceuticals. The fund aims to capitalize on emerging opportunities in these areas by targeting middle-market companies that offer growth potential and value creation. This latest fund highlights Amulet Capital’s commitment to expanding its presence in the life sciences sector.
ZOE, a health tech company specializing in personalized nutrition, has raised $15 million in new funding. The investment will be used to support its expansion into the U.S. market. ZOE’s app, which provides tailored dietary advice based on users’ responses to specific foods, has gained traction and aims to leverage the growing interest in personalized health solutions. The company plans to use the new funds to enhance its offerings and reach more customers in the U.S.
Dr. Sachin Wani provides a comprehensive review of the treatment and management of Barrett’s esophagus, focusing on the importance of surveillance, endoscopic therapies, and the role of radiofrequency ablation and endoscopic resection. He emphasizes the need for a personalized approach based on the patient’s risk factors and the progression of dysplasia. The article also discusses the latest guidelines and evidence supporting these treatment modalities.