Author: Abhay Panchal

Physicians are increasingly turning to side gigs, with 40% now supplementing their income by an average of $34,000 annually, a trend explored in the latest Fixing Healthcare podcast featuring Dr. Jonathan Fisher. Rising burnout, financial strain, and shifts in career fulfillment are fueling this change, as doctors move from independent practice to hospital employment and grapple with the growing role of AI in healthcare. With medicine becoming less intellectually stimulating, many physicians seek creative and financial outlets beyond traditional practice. The episode raises a crucial question: Is this a symptom of a broken system, or the future of medical careers?

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The Crohn’s & Colitis Congress 2025 unveiled groundbreaking advancements in IBD care, from AI-driven disease monitoring and non-invasive sweat-based diagnostics to evolving guidelines on pregnancy and obesity management. Experts emphasized the importance of medication adherence during pregnancy, the potential of GLP-1 drugs in IBD treatment, and the role of bariatric surgery in disease outcomes. Meanwhile, AI innovations like IBD Aware and Smart Notes are set to transform patient monitoring and clinical workflows. With these cutting-edge developments, the future of IBD care is shifting rapidly—but the real question remains: Are we ready to embrace this revolution in precision medicine?

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While some physicians prefer the autonomy of working in private practice, working with a major health system, especially an academic one, can afford several opportunities to specialists. From more access to resources and research, to a focus on cutting-edge patient care, there are many pros to the practice setting.Benjamin Levy III, MD, a gastroenterologist from University of Chicago Medicine, told Becker’s what he enjoys most about practicing at the academic medical center.

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New research highlights an increased risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) in patients with both nonadvanced and advanced adenomas detected during colonoscopy. The study, leveraging data from the Minnesota Colon Cancer Control Study, found that individuals with adenomas had a greater risk of developing CRC compared to those with no adenomas, with advanced adenomas also linked to increased CRC mortality and all-cause mortality. The findings reinforce the importance of surveillance colonoscopy, particularly for those with advanced adenomas, to ensure early detection and intervention. The article gives insights on the necessity of frequent CRC screening and the implications for long-term patient outcomes.

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A new study published in Gastro Hep Advances found that multitarget stool DNA (mt-sDNA) testing for colorectal cancer remains accurate regardless of whether patients are on anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications. Researchers at Mayo Clinic analyzed data from over 11,000 patients and determined that medication use did not significantly impact the test’s positive predictive value (PPV), which stood at 31.4% for detecting advanced adenomas. These findings suggest that patients at risk for cardiovascular events can safely continue their medications while undergoing CRC screening. The article gives insights on the reliability of mt-sDNA testing in real-world settings.

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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…

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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