Author: Abhay Panchal

People with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) face a heightened risk of colorectal cancer, yet early detection remains a challenge. Researchers at The Institute of Cancer Research in London have developed a new genetic test that can predict bowel cancer risk in IBD patients with over 90% accuracy, potentially eliminating unnecessary surgeries and reducing patient anxiety.By analyzing DNA changes in pre-cancerous cells, this test offers a more precise approach than traditional colonoscopy-based surveillance, which can miss early warning signs. Experts praise the innovation as a game-changer in IBD care, with potential future adaptations into blood or stool-based tests for even less…

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Could smarter follow-up strategies transform post-colonoscopy care? Two new studies from ACG 2024 reveal how automated text and email outreach doubled patient engagement, reducing staff workload and improving efficiency, while a direct nurse hotline enhanced accessibility but didn’t lower ER visits. With gastroenterology clinics handling thousands of procedures annually, optimizing communication could mean better patient outcomes and fewer unnecessary hospital visits. Are digital tools the key to more effective post-procedure care?

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Medicine is entering a new era of artificial intelligence (AI)—one where AI is no longer just a passive tool, but an active agent in healthcare. While today’s AI-powered medical models remain reliant on human input and interpretation, the future of AI lies in its evolution from a sophisticated calculator to a true healthcare teammate. From AI Tools to AI Agents: To unlock AI’s full potential, clinicians must embrace AI not just as an assistant, but as a partner—one that can enhance precision, reduce cognitive burden, and improve patient outcomes.

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Managing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a challenge, with flare-ups and symptoms often unpredictable. But could a wearable device provide real-time monitoring and better disease management?Dr. Shalini Prasad and Dr. Sriram Muthukumar, co-founders of EnLiSense, have developed an innovative wearable that tracks inflammation markers in IBD patients, offering continuous, non-invasive monitoring.Dr. Prasad, Head of Bioengineering at the University of Texas at Dallas, and Dr. Muthukumar, CEO of EnLiSense, discuss how this technology could revolutionize patient care, allowing early detection of flare-ups and personalized treatment adjustments.

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Burnout among physicians remains a persistent issue, and a new study suggests electronic health record (EHR) documentation after hours—known as “pajama time”—is a major contributor.A study led by Lisa Rotenstein, M.D., of UCSF Health, analyzed over 10,000 family physicians between 2017 and 2023 and found that while burnout rates have remained high, efforts to reduce them have made little progress. Physicians often struggle to balance meaningful patient interactions with the administrative burden of documentation, leading many to complete records outside of work hours, further exacerbating stress and emotional exhaustion.

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In a first-of-its-kind collaboration, Aetna, Blue Shield of California, and Centene’s Health Net have launched a shared value-based payment model aimed at enhancing primary care reimbursement and improving health equity across California.The initiative, which began on January 1, 2025, currently involves 11 provider groups and 17,000 patients, with a focus on small, independent practices. Unlike traditional models where each insurer operates separately, this single, unified payment system rewards high-quality care, particularly for underserved populations.

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A bipartisan push to reverse the 2.83% Medicare payment cut that took effect on January 1, 2025, is gaining momentum, with 10 House members introducing new legislation aimed at stabilizing physician reimbursements.The Medicare Patient Access and Practice Stabilization Act proposes to roll back the payment cuts and implement a 2% increase in physician reimbursements under the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule. If passed, the bill would take effect on April 1, 2025—but will Congress act in time?Physician groups, including the American Medical Association (AMA) and the Medical Group Management Association (MGMA), warn that ongoing Medicare cuts, coupled with rising practice costs…

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