This study highlights the effectiveness of a new cell-free DNA (cfDNA) blood test in detecting colorectal cancer (CRC): The cfDNA test accurately detected CRC in the majority of confirmed cases. It showed 83% sensitivity for CRC, 90% specificity for advanced neoplasia, and 13% sensitivity for advanced precancerous lesions. This compares favorably with other noninvasive methods. According to Dr. William M. Grady, the test is a significant step towards more convenient early CRC detection methods. It offers a similar accuracy rate for colon cancer detection as stool tests, providing a viable alternative for those reluctant to undergo current screenings. Conducted across…
Author: Rutali Thakur
The article highlights the significant involvement of Apple, Google, and Microsoft in the healthcare industry. Apple has made strides with its Vision Pro technology, used in spinal surgeries in the U.S. and U.K., and is partnering with major health systems for various healthcare applications. The company is also expanding its healthcare tech team. Google, through its partnership with EHR vendor Meditch, is providing AI tools to healthcare providers, including solutions to streamline the prior authorization process. Major healthcare systems like HCA Healthcare and Hackensack Meridian Health are utilizing Google’s AI tools. Microsoft is contributing with its HoloLens 2 glasses, which…
Key Points: Intuitive Surgical received FDA 510(k) clearance for da Vinci 5, their next-generation multiport robotic system. The system includes over 150 enhancements such as improved accuracy, advanced 3D imaging, first-of-its-kind force-sensing technology, workflow enhancements, expanded computing power, and greater surgeon comfort. Da Vinci 5 builds upon the design of the da Vinci Xi, which has been used in over 7 million procedures worldwide. The system aims to enable better patient outcomes, enhance patient and care team experiences, and lower the total cost of care. Da Vinci 5 will initially be available to a select number of U.S. customers, with…
Key Points: The acquisition positions Mahana Therapeutics as a global leader in digital treatment solutions for chronic conditions, particularly in the field of GI health. By joining forces, Mahana Therapeutics and Cara Care aim to leverage their respective expertise to enhance digital treatment offerings for individuals suffering from chronic conditions. The acquisition strengthens Mahana Therapeutics’ focus on gastrointestinal health, allowing them to expand their digital therapeutic solutions in this area. The combined resources and capabilities of Mahana Therapeutics and Cara Care are expected to lead to improved patient care outcomes by providing effective digital treatment options for individuals with chronic…
Key Points: Capital Digestive Care, the largest private gastroenterology practice in the Mid-Atlantic region, is launching LGI-Flag in the United States. LGI-Flag is an AI-driven algorithm used to flag individuals at risk for lower GI disorders that warrant further evaluation. LGI-Flag is available through the Roche navify Algorithm Suite. The Capital Digestive Care Laboratory, recognized as a Roche Diagnostics Center of Excellence, will use LGI-Flag to screen eligible patients using electronic health record (EHR) and clinical data repositories. LGI-Flag uses demographic information and historical CBC (complete blood count) test results to identify individuals with patterns associated with an increased risk…
Key Points: Over half (55%) of gastroenterologists would take a salary cut for a better work-life balance. The primary way gastroenterologists maintain their happiness and mental health is by spending time with family and friends (82%). About 38% of gastroenterologists feel either conflicted or very conflicted as parents due to work demands. A significant majority believe that prioritizing family and personal time is very (76%) or somewhat (20%) important. Most gastroenterologists believe their diets are very (26%) or somewhat (64%) healthy. Read more
On Sept. 1, UnitedHealthcare is set to begin a two-phased approach to eliminate prior authorization requirements for several procedure codes, including three gastroenterology-related codes. The code removals will account for almost 20 percent of its overall prior authorization volume. On Sept. 1 and Nov. 1, codes will be eliminated for UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage, UnitedHealthcare commercial, UnitedHealthcare Oxford and UnitedHealthcare Individual Exchange plans. On Nov. 1, codes will be eliminated for the UnitedHealthcare Community Plan as well. read more
ATLANTA, Aug. 15, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — United Digestive (UD), a leading provider of comprehensive GI services, is excited to announce a new agreement with a prominent market exchange payer in Georgia, marking a significant milestone in the company’s growth and commitment to patient-centric care. Effective July 1, UD entered a partnership with Oscar Health, Inc., extending its services to more than 90,000 patient lives. This strategic expansion allows UD to reach a broader population and positively impact even more patients through the inclusion of endoscopy centers, infusion services, and anesthesia. The partnership ensures that UD’s exceptional services remain accessible to those in need. read more
No-moat Guardant Health GH posted strong second-quarter results that were about in line with our expectations. Solid volume growth drove revenue up 26% year over year and pushed management to lift full-year guidance. While we have slightly raised our full-year 2023 revenue growth forecast on a strong first-half performance, we maintain our longer-term growth assumptions, and therefore there is no material change to our $63 fair value estimate. Shares remain significantly undervalued at current prices. read more
Running a primary care practice is no easy feat. Between no-show appointments, combating negative reviews, staffing shortages, and tightening reimbursements, physicians and administrators have a lot on their plates. When these issues go unresolved, they bring severe financial pressures that can affect a health care provider’s bottom line. read more