Three gastroenterologists faced serious legal battles in one week: a wrongful death lawsuit in Connecticut, a tax fraud conviction carrying up to 204 years in prison in West Virginia, and shocking sexual misconduct allegations under investigation in Ohio. read more
Author: Rutali Thakur
On October 30, 2024, Rockford Gastroenterology Associates (RGA) disclosed a data breach to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights, following a December 16, 2023 cyberattack that accessed sensitive patient information. RGA confirmed that files containing personal and health information were compromised, although the electronic health records system remained secure. The investigation concluded on September 4, 2024, identifying affected individuals who were notified via data breach letters. The breached data may expose patients to fraud or identity theft risks. Founded in 1980, RGA is based in Rockford, Illinois, and specializes in gastrointestinal care. read more
News Flash: Cardinal Health to Acquire Majority Stake in GI Alliance Cardinal Health will acquire a 71% stake in GI Alliance from physician owners and Apollo Global Management affiliates for approximately $2.8 billion in cash The transaction values GI Alliance at $3.9 billion Cardinal Health can own GI Alliance three years after the deal closes in early 2025 James Weber, M.D. (CEO, GI Alliance): “GI Alliance and Cardinal Health are aligned in our shared vision to build a physician-led, national specialty healthcare platform that will be the preferred choice for patients seeking dependable, high-quality specialty care.” James Weber, MD, is the CEO…
Cardinal Health has announced plans to acquire a 71% stake in GI Alliance (GIA), a leading gastroenterology management services organization, for approximately $2.8 billion in cash. This strategic move aims to enhance Cardinal Health’s specialty healthcare offerings by integrating GIA’s extensive network of over 900 physicians across 345 locations in 20 states. The partnership is expected to create a comprehensive multi-specialty managed-services platform, benefiting both physicians and patients by delivering high-quality, dependable specialty care. read more
Cardinal Health is set to expand its presence in gastroenterology and at-home healthcare solutions with two major acquisitions totaling $3.9 billion. The company will acquire a 71% stake in GI Alliance (GIA) for $2.8 billion, enhancing its specialty offerings alongside recent investments in oncology and rheumatology. Additionally, Cardinal will acquire Advanced Diabetes Supply Group (ADSG) for $1.1 billion, bolstering its at-home diabetes care services. These moves mark Cardinal’s continued diversification beyond drug distribution and align with its growth strategy following a fiscal 2025 profit forecast boost, fueled by specialty and branded drug demand. read More
MicrobioTx has launched the Gut Function Test (GFT), a groundbreaking blood-based test that profiles the gut microbiome with just a finger-prick, eliminating the need for stool samples. Recently approved by Indian regulators, the GFT aims to make gut health assessment more accessible and affordable, supported by a grant from DPIIT through the Institute of Life Science. Along with microbiome profiling, the GFT offers users personalized recommendations, including dietary guidance and customized probiotics (Personal ProbioTx). According to co-founder Akanksha Gupta, this simplified, cost-effective approach addresses the barriers of traditional stool-based tests, promising a new era in gut health and preventive wellness.…
A generational divide is sparking debate in medicine: Is being a doctor a job or a calling? Traditionally, doctors viewed the profession as a lifelong duty, accepting long hours and intense demands for the sake of patient care. But newer physicians are increasingly challenging this culture, favoring work-life balance over personal sacrifice—a shift that some veteran doctors view with concern. read more
In 2030, the transformative potential of weight-loss drugs, particularly GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy), could yield global health and economic benefits, from reduced heart attacks and healthcare costs to decreased fuel consumption in airlines due to lighter passengers. These drugs, already showing significant impacts in the U.S., could cut obesity-related health issues, boost productivity, and lessen economic disparities. However, uncertainties remain around the long-term effects, costs, and potential behavioral changes of users, raising questions about access, affordability, and the broader societal impact of GLP-1 drugs. read more
New tools in gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) management, including hemostatic powders, capsule endoscopy, endoscopic clips, and over-the-scope devices, offer targeted approaches for various GIB cases. Hemostatic powders like Hemospray aid in rapid clotting, while capsule endoscopy enables less invasive detection of small intestine bleeds. Endoscopic clips, bands, and over-the-scope clips manage challenging bleeds, while suturing and thermal coagulation provide precision control. Together, these advancements significantly enhance GIB treatment options. read more
At the American College of Gastroenterology Meeting, Eli Lilly and Johnson & Johnson presented Phase III results showing high remission rates for their Crohn’s disease drugs, Omvoh and Tremfya. J&J’s Tremfya achieved up to 66% remission at 48 weeks, offering options for subcutaneous and intravenous administration. Lilly’s Omvoh demonstrated a 96% response rate, with 87% of patients reaching remission, also showing efficacy in ulcerative colitis. Both companies are seeking approval for expanded use in Crohn’s, aiming to set new treatment standards. read more