The article from Becker’s Healthcare highlights responses from various C-suite executives on the biggest disruptors they anticipate in healthcare over the next five years. The primary disruptors mentioned include advancements in AI and machine learning, the rise of consumerism in healthcare, the expansion of telehealth and remote patient monitoring, and changes in healthcare regulations. These trends are expected to significantly impact how healthcare organizations operate, with a strong emphasis on technology, patient experience, and financial sustainability.
Author: Rutali Thakur
The number of self-employed physicians has dropped to 42% between 2012 and 2022, reflecting a broader trend of physicians moving from independent practices to employment. Gastroenterologists, however, are more likely to be practice owners, with 42.7% being self-employed. Despite the financial challenges, including declining reimbursements, many still find private practice rewarding, particularly those with a higher tolerance for financial risk.
A study by researchers from institutions including UNC School of Medicine and Duke University found that around half of AI medical devices authorized by the FDA lack reported clinical validation data. Despite the growing use of AI in healthcare, particularly in diagnostics and treatment planning, the absence of thorough clinical validation raises concerns about the reliability of these tools. The study urges both the FDA and the industry to improve transparency and ensure that AI devices are rigorously evaluated using real patient data.
The article discusses a study comparing cold snare polypectomy (CSP) and cold endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) for the removal of large colorectal polyps. Findings suggest that while both techniques are effective, cold EMR might offer advantages in terms of complete resection for certain polyp types. However, the study highlights the need for further research to determine the best approach based on polyp characteristics. The insights could influence future recommendations for polyp removal in clinical practice.
The annual U.S. cancer screening cost has reached $43.2 billion, with colonoscopies accounting for 55% of that figure. As non-invasive CRC screenings like Cologuard gain popularity, questions arise about the future of colonoscopies. Three physicians shared their views, emphasizing that colonoscopy remains the gold standard for detecting and preventing colon cancer by identifying and removing polyps. While non-invasive tests are becoming more common, they currently lack the sensitivity and specificity of colonoscopy and are not as effective in preventing cancer.
The article explores whether employing more endoscopy technicians could help alleviate the ongoing staffing shortages in gastroenterology. It discusses the potential benefits of this approach, including improved efficiency and allowing specialized staff to focus on more complex tasks, which could ultimately enhance patient care and workflow in GI practices.
KIHealth and Genova Diagnostics have partnered to make comprehensive gut health testing more accessible and easier to use. This collaboration aims to provide consumers with advanced, reliable testing options to gain insights into their gut health, potentially leading to more personalized and effective health management. The partnership reflects a growing interest in understanding the gut’s role in overall health and the importance of accessible diagnostic tools.
Steward Health Care is selling its physician group to a private equity firm managed by Stewardship, backed by Kinderhook Industries. The move aligns with Steward’s strategy to focus on its core hospital business, while Stewardship will manage the physician group. This sale is part of a broader trend of private equity firms increasing their investments in healthcare, particularly in physician groups, as they seek to capitalize on the growing demand for healthcare services.
The study published in JAMA Network Open demonstrates that fecal immunochemical test (FIT) screening significantly reduces colorectal cancer (CRC) mortality by 33%, with a 42% reduction in deaths from left colon and rectal cancers. The research, conducted in two large, diverse U.S. health systems, highlights the effectiveness of FIT screening across various racial and ethnic groups. However, the benefits were not observed for right colon cancers. The study emphasizes the importance of coordinated, large-scale FIT screening efforts to prevent premature CRC deaths.
The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) has strongly criticized UnitedHealthcare’s new Gold Card program, which allows physicians to bypass prior authorizations under certain conditions. The AGA argues that the program is insufficient and may still burden healthcare providers with unnecessary administrative tasks, ultimately impacting patient care. The organization is pushing for more significant reforms to the prior authorization process to ensure that it doesn’t hinder timely access to necessary treatments.