Healthcare mergers and acquisitions (M&A) are expected to surge in 2025 as economic conditions improve and regulatory scrutiny potentially eases. Physician groups considering private equity transactions must weigh the financial benefits against long-term control and operational changes. Law firm Foley & Lardner wrote in a Feb. 10 article published in JD Supra that key factors include preparing for due diligence, securing group consensus, engaging experienced advisors, and addressing compliance risks early to protect deal value. Structuring transactions with favorable tax treatment, indemnification protections, and equity rollovers is critical. With deal volume rising, careful planning will be essential for successful practice…
Author: Abhay Panchal
Scientists at NUS have developed Gut-Microbiome on a Chip (GMoC)—a 3D microgut model that mimics human intestines, allowing researchers to study gut microbes and their role in health and disease more accurately. The chip replicates gut structures, oxygen levels, and food movement, making it a scalable, realistic tool for investigating microbial interactions, immune responses, and potential therapeutic targets. Researchers aim to refine and commercialize the technology, paving the way for breakthroughs in gut microbiome research and disease prevention. The article gives insights on how GMoC could transform microbiome studies.
New research on GLP-1 medications, including Ozempic and Wegovy, highlights their far-reaching health benefits beyond weight loss—such as reduced risks of substance use disorders, Alzheimer’s, and clotting issues—while also revealing side effects like nausea, dehydration, and pancreatitis. Physicians emphasize the importance of dosage timing, dietary adjustments, and hydration to minimize complications. Regular check-ins help monitor progress, adjust medications, and address metabolic improvements like resolved hypertension. The article gives insights on optimizing GLP-1 treatments while balancing their risks and benefits.
Amazon is ramping up its healthcare ambitions, competing with Walmart through strategic partnerships and AI-driven solutions. With Teladoc Health and AWS-backed AI healthcare innovations, Amazon is expanding virtual care, chronic disease management, and pharmacy services. Meanwhile, Walmart is leveraging same-day pharmacy delivery, launching drone technology, and enhancing last-mile delivery logistics through Walmart GoLocal. Both retail giants are reshaping healthcare accessibility and convenience, with Amazon focusing on AI-powered care and Walmart enhancing operational efficiency. The article gives insights on their evolving healthcare strategies and market impact.
Dr. Treta Purohit is a trailblazing gastroenterologist, healthcare executive, and digital health innovator, spearheading AI-driven diagnostics, telehealth expansion, and robotic advancements in GI care. With leadership roles at Oshi Health, Endiatx, and San Jose Gastroenterology, she has transformed patient access through virtual GI care, value-based models, and cutting-edge research. A sought-after speaker and advisor, Dr. Purohit’s expertise spans clinical operations, health-tech innovation, and policy advocacy. Now seeking a board role, she aims to shape the future of gastroenterology with strategic AI integration and digital transformation. The article gives insights on her contributions to healthcare innovation and leadership.
Endohepatology is an emerging subspeciality dealing with endoscopic diagnosis and management of liver diseases. Traditionally, the role of endoscopy was limited to management of variceal bleed. However, advancements and innovations in the field of endoscopy have expanded its role, now encompassing a broader spectrum of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for liver diseases.
Cosmo Pharmaceuticals has appointed Andrea Cherubini as its first Chief AI Officer, signaling a major shift toward AI-driven innovation across its portfolio. Cherubini, who played a key role in the development of GI Genius™, the world’s first AI-powered polyp detection system, will now expand AI applications in gastroenterology, dermatology, and drug discovery. His leadership aims to enhance precision medicine, optimize clinical trials, and accelerate AI-enabled drug development. Cosmo’s CEO emphasized that AI is now a core pillar of the company’s growth strategy, with plans to drive innovation beyond endoscopy.
The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) has released updated best practices for peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) as a treatment for achalasia and other esophageal motility disorders. The guidelines highlight POEM’s effectiveness compared to traditional methods, the importance of individualized treatment approaches, and key considerations such as tunnel orientation, antibiotic prophylaxis, and post-procedure reflux management. The update also emphasizes long-term surveillance due to the chronic nature of achalasia and the potential risks of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and esophageal cancer. The article gives insights on the latest recommendations and expert perspectives on POEM’s evolving role in gastroenterology.
Colorectal cancer rates are rising in younger adults, making early detection crucial. Sanford Health launched a mail-based stool screening initiative, sending 40,000 kits that led to the removal of precancerous polyps in 300 patients and the early diagnosis of 10 cancers. The initiative improves accessibility, particularly for those at normal risk or in remote areas, offering FIT and Cologuard tests as non-invasive alternatives to colonoscopies. The program aims to catch cancer early, ensuring better outcomes. The article gives insights on how home-based testing is enhancing colorectal cancer screening and prevention.
The future of anti-obesity drugs is rapidly evolving, with over 100 new candidates in development. While semaglutide (Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) have revolutionized weight loss treatments, they come with side effects, muscle loss concerns, and variability in effectiveness. Researchers are now exploring next-generation drugs that target multiple pathways, such as GIP, glucagon, and amylin, to enhance fat loss while preserving muscle. Oral alternatives, monthly injectables, and metabolism-boosting therapies are also in the pipeline. The article gives insights on how these advancements could reshape obesity treatment in the coming years.