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RedHill Biopharma Strengthens Cash Balance, Settles Obligations and Removes Talicia® Lien

RedHill Biopharma Ltd. (Nasdaq: RDHL) (“RedHill” or the “Company”), a specialty biopharmaceutical company, today announced the signing of a Global Termination Agreement with Movantik Acquisition Co., Valinor Pharma, LLC, and HCR Redhill SPV, LLC (the “Agreement”).

As a result of the Agreement, RedHill Biopharm received approximately $9.9 million in cash and gained full control over an additional $0.74 million currently held in a restricted account, leading to an increase of approximately $12.2 million in liabilities for RedHill, reflecting assumed and settled liabilities between the parties, resulting in a net balance sheet reduction of approximately $2.3 million.

In addition, the Agreement ends all existing credit ties with the Agreement parties, removes the existing lien against Talicia® and restores control over cash collections back to RedHill.

Razi Ingber, RedHill Biopharm and Chief Financial Officer, said: “We are very pleased to reach this smooth conclusion, which strengthens RedHill’s cash position and greatly enhances our ability to manage our cash. The Agreement eliminates substantially all encumbrances related to the previous Movantik divestment and Credit Agreements, allowing us to better focus on our R&D and commercial activities and return the Company to a growth mode. This is a new chapter for RedHill.”

Nima Farzan: New CEO at Latigo Biotherapeutics

Nima-Farzan
Nima Farzan, MBA, CEO Latigo Biotherapeutics

Latigo Biotherapeutics Inc. (“Latigo“), a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing best-in-class non-opioid pain medicines that target pain at its source, today announced the appointment of Nima Farzan, MBA, as chief executive officer (CEO).

Nima Farzan brings a strong track record of more than two decades of leadership experience in the biopharmaceutical industry. He replaces Desmond Padhi, Pharm.D., operating partner at Westlake Village BioPartners, who has been serving as Latigo’s interim CEO.

“The addition of Nima represents a pivotal moment for Latigo,” said Nancy Stagliano, Ph.D., chair of Latigo’s board of directors. “His extensive industry leadership and clinical development experience will propel us toward our goal of becoming a world leader in discovering and developing non-opioid pain medicines.”

“I am honored to lead Latigo Biotherapeutics at such a critical juncture,” said Farzan. “With our cutting-edge approach to pain management, I am confident in our ability to drive significant advancements in the field and enhance patient care where new, safer options are needed.”

“Desmond’s leadership has been vital during a transformative period for Latigo, setting a solid stage for our next chapter of growth,” said Stagliano. “The board extends heartfelt thanks to Desmond for his exemplary service as interim CEO.”

Strong Track Record in Fundraising and IPOs

Nima Farzan brings more than two decades of leadership experience in the biopharmaceutical industry, including a significant tenure as chief executive officer (CEO) of Kinnate Biopharma. He joined Kinnate in 2020 and built an organization that subsequently brought three different precision oncology compounds discovered internally into the clinic. He led Kinnate’s successful initial public offering (IPO) of $270 million and eventual sale to Xoma Corporation in April 2024. Prior to joining Kinnate, Mr. Farzan spent seven years at PaxVax, where he was most recently president and CEO. At PaxVax, he led a team of 250 people through several successful financings, the licensure from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of Vaxchora® (cholera vaccine), the grant of a Priority Review Voucher from the FDA, the acquisition of several programs from Johnson & Johnson, and a number of commercial product launches. The company received a Priority Review Voucher that it sold and ultimately, he negotiated the sale of PaxVax to Emergent BioSolutions, returning nearly $500 million back to shareholders between the two transactions. Prior to PaxVax, he was at Novartis AG in a series of roles of increasing responsibility, including vice president of U.S. Marketing at Novartis’ Vaccines and Diagnostics division. Previously, he worked at DoubleTwist, a pioneering genomics company, and was a consultant with Boston Consulting Group. After the sales of PaxVax and Kinnate, Mr. Farzan was an executive-in-residence at Foresite Capital.

Mr. Farzan is a director of Keros Therapeutics and was a member of the founding board of the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI). He holds an MBA from the Harvard Business School and a BA in human biology with honors from Stanford University.

eCential Robotics Receives FDA 510(k) Clearance for Spine Navigation and Robotic-Assistance Device

eCential Robotics is proud to announce that it has received 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for an innovative Spine Navigation and Robotic-Assistance Device. This device provides a new, advanced solution for planning and instrumenting spinal fusion procedures.

This spine robot was developed by eCential Robotics in the framework of a collaboration with DePuy Synthes (DPS), The Orthopaedics Company of Johnson & Johnson. DPS will leverage its extensive reach and expertise to bring this innovative solution to market.

This milestone achievement highlights eCential Robotics’ unique expertise in the field of surgical navigation and robotics, reaffirming its dedication to supporting and advancing the healthcare system.

“This additional FDA clearance is a testament to our relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence in the field of surgical robotics and navigation,” said Clément Vidal, CEO at eCential Robotics. “We look forward to continuing to deliver cutting-edge solutions that enhance surgical precision and patient outcomes.”

eCential Robotics will now continue to focus on developing the commercial activities of its unique Open eCential Platform in the U.S. and partnering with implant manufacturers and tech companies to expand the range of Applications available on the Platform.

Dasyo Welcomes Medical Aesthetics Industry Icon Domenic Serafino (Dom) as Executive Chair

Dominic Serafino
Dominic (Dom) Serafino appointed Executive Chair of Dasyo

Dasyo, a company pioneering innovative noninvasive technologies in medical aesthetics, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Domenic Serafino (Dom) as Executive Board Chair.

Dasyo is developing groundbreaking non-surgical breast lifts product using proprietary technology for noninvasive directional skin tightening. Dasyo is funded by the Israel Innovation Authority and The Trendlines Group (SGX: 42T) (OTCQX: TRNLY).

Dom’s impressive track record includes Co-Founder and CEO of Venus Concept Inc. from inception in 2010 through 2022. He led the company from startup to over $100 million in annual revenues.

Domenic Serafino was part of the start-up executive team at Syneron Medical Corp acting as its President of North America and Executive Vice President – Syneron Medical Israel. He was instrumental in helping Syneron IPO in 2004, reaching a market cap of $1.3 billion less than 18 months from IPO.

Dom also served as President and Chief Operating Officer of Sigmacon Group, Canada’s largest laser distribution company, from 1994 through 2001.

“Welcoming Dom as Executive Chair is a transformative step for Dasyo,” stated Emri Valtzer, CEO of Dasyo. “His visionary leadership and unmatched expertise in the aesthetics medical device arena are perfectly aligned with our ambitious objectives. We are thrilled to have him on our board and are eager to harness his insights to propel our innovative vision.”

“I am honored to join Dasyo as Executive Chair,” shared Dom Serafino. “Dasyo’s dedication to pioneering aesthetics medical technologies is truly commendable. After researching and working with many different technologies over the years, I am confident that the team at Dasyo has truly developed something new and innovative in the directional skin tightening category, especially in non-surgical breast lifting.”

Serafino’s appointment significantly enhances Dasyo’s strategic direction and growth potential, reinforcing the company’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the noninvasive aesthetics medical device sector.

When to Call a Plumber: Signs You Need Professional Help

Call a Plumber

Are you dealing with plumbing problems that you can’t solve? You’re not alone. Plumbing issues range from slight inconveniences to life-altering disasters, and knowing the difference between the two can save you money and time. Here, we’ll go over some of the most common signs that it’s time to call a plumber.

Drain Clogs

If your sink, tub, and shower drains are always clogged, a plumber can help. Do-it-yourself approaches offer temporary relief, but stubborn clogs indicate deeper problems. When your drains don’t work, it’s time to contact a plumber who can get things flowing again.

Decreased Water Pressure

Low pressure is a sign of significant issues with a plumbing system. Professional plumbers can assess and solve these problems, whether they require simple fixture repairs or complicated system-wide service.

Dripping Faucets and Leaky Fixtures

A leaky faucet seems like a minor hassle, but it wastes a lot of water if left unfixed. By hiring a plumber, you’ll stop the dripping, save water, and save money every month.

Running Toilets

If your toilet always runs even when it’s unused, there’s a big problem. Most issues arise when flapper valves fail, and they’re easy to resolve. A plumber will find out why your toilet is running and offer permanent solutions.

Water Heater Worries

From odd noises to an insufficient water supply, water heater issues can affect your everyday life. With help from experienced local plumbers, you can enjoy a nearly endless stream of hot water.

Frozen and Burst Pipes

Winter sometimes brings freezing temperatures, which can freeze your pipes and damage your home’s plumbing. If your pipes are frozen or ruptured, don’t delay—call a plumber today.

Sewer Backups and Bad Odors

Sewer line clogs are some of the biggest and nastiest problems a homeowner will ever experience. Most backups happen when sewer lines get clogged or blocked, leading to slow drainage, foul odors, and other problems. Sewage backups require prompt professional attention, and we can provide it.

Soggy Grass and a Muddy, Smelly Yard

If your yard is full of soggy, foul-smelling patches, there may be a sewer problem. Sewer line damage allows raw sewage to seep into your yard, creating unpleasant smells and significant health hazards.

Floods in the House

Water damage happens fast, and it can cause devastation throughout the home. If your house is flooded due to a plumbing problem, it’s important to seek professional help immediately. Call a plumber who can stop the flood and prevent further damage to your home and its contents.

Cloudy, Smelly, Bad-Tasting Water

If you’re only getting discolored, foul-smelling water from your faucet, don’t disregard it. Cloudy, rusty, and yellow water may indicate serious plumbing problems, including sediment buildup and pipe corrosion. Don’t put your family’s health at risk; call a plumber who can ensure the safety and quality of your water.

Get Help at the First Sign of Plumbing Problems

Functional plumbing is a convenience that most of us take for granted until there’s a problem. Don’t let broken pipes, backed-up toilets, and other issues turn into health hazards and costly repairs. Whether it’s a dripping fixture or a major repair, our plumbers are ready to help. Learn more about our services online or call to book an appointment with a licensed local plumber.

How To Ensure You Get Fair Compensation For Your Injuries At Work

https://pixabay.com/photos/crutches-trauma-fracture-legs-5381823/

Sustaining injuries while at work can be both painful and costly. As an employee, you naturally expect your company to provide a safe and healthy work environment to operate. However, when an injury occurs, it is crucial for the injured person (you) to understand their rights and pursue a claim if necessary. If you get an injury at work, several steps to take to ensure that your employer is held responsible for the incident. This article will discuss some of these steps.

Get a Personal Injury Lawyer

In Brisbane, it is vital to have a personal injury lawyer on your side who understands the Workers’ Compensation process.

A good lawyer will be able to help you get the best possible outcome for your claim. When choosing the right fit among the many lawyers in Brisbane, ask around for recommendations or search online. Make sure to read reviews of any lawyers you are considering before deciding.

Once you have found a lawyer, such as Pittsburgh workers compensation lawyers make sure to keep them updated on your progress and answer their questions honestly and completely. This will help them build the most robust case possible on your behalf.

Report the Incident to your Supervisor

It’s important to report any workplace injuries as soon as possible. Not only will this ensure that you receive the necessary medical attention, but it also documents the incident in case you need to file a workers’ compensation claim. Be sure to provide your supervisor with all relevant information, including when and how the injury occurred.

If you’re uncomfortable reporting the incident yourself, ask a coworker or family member to do it on your behalf. Just be sure they have all of the pertinent information handy. Reporting to your supervisor also helps prevent other workers from experiencing the same injury, as measures can be put in place to prevent future incidents.

Get a Witness Statement

Witness statements are often the most powerful tool that helps to prove your case. When you are injured or witness an accident, ask somebody to stay with you and write down exactly what they saw happen. Even if it is just a few lines on how they noticed an issue at work, it will help prove your claim against the company responsible for causing this unfortunate event.

You must get a witness statement immediately following the accident. If it has already happened, go back to where it started and speak with people there.

A good way of getting someone to write down what they witnessed is by offering them some kind gesture in return for their assistance. Even if this means giving up your bus ticket or waiting until another day before going home after work, anything helps to make sure these statements are documented correctly.

Take Photos of your Injury

It’s important to take photos of your injury as soon as possible. This will help document the extent of your injury and could be used as evidence in a claim. You don’t need a high-end camera. Your cell phone will do. Also, if there is CCTV footage of the accident, a good lawyer can help you collect this as your claim may be given greater weight if there is evidence supporting it.

Do Not Discuss Your Claim With Anyone Else!

It’s important not to discuss any aspect of your injury with anyone else other than those you are receiving medical treatment from or who are working on your case. This includes family members and friends.

There have been countless cases where claimants have discussed their injuries during a casual conversation only for that information to later find its way into court documents used by an insurance company to reduce the amount they payout for compensation. It’s best not to say anything at all about how much pain you’re experiencing unless asked directly by someone involved in your care after the incident has occurred.

Additionally, when dealing with an injury claim, having a disability attorney can be crucial. A disability attorney is experienced in navigating the complexities of injury claims and will ensure that your case is handled properly. They will also advise you on the best practices to follow, including the importance of maintaining confidentiality about your injury details. This professional guidance can significantly improve your chances of receiving the full compensation you deserve.

Seek Medical Attention

Regardless of how big the injury may seem, always seek medical attention. This is not only for your health and well-being but also to document the injury. Make sure you keep all documentation related to the accident and your injuries, including doctor’s notes, receipts for medication, and photos of your injuries.

Your Prospects for Recovery

The prospects for recovering from a workplace injury depend on several factors. Here are some you and your loved ones should definitely consider:

  • Severity of the injury: Minor injuries, such as sprains and strains, might require rest and rehabilitation but can often lead to full recovery. More severe injuries, such as fractures, traumatic brain injuries, or spinal cord injuries, may have a longer recovery period and could result in long-term effects.
  • Timeliness of treatment: Early intervention can help prevent complications, like chronic pain and permanent disability, and ensure the best possible outcomes.
  • Rehabilitation: Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other rehabilitation programs can help individuals regain strength, mobility, and functionality.
  • Compliance with medical advice: Following medical advice and treatment plans from professionals (like a physical therapist or pain management doctor) is essential for a successful recovery. Failing to adhere to recommended treatments or engaging in activities that could worsen the injury can hinder recovery.
  • Support: From loved ones to the healthcare team and people at work, it helps to receive physical and emotional support in such trying times. Positivity can bolster recovery outcomes and maintain your quality of life despite your challenges.

Of course, access to most of these is best secured by getting the right compensation. Always work closely with your personal injury lawyer to achieve this.

Sustaining personal injuries can be a life-changing event. You may have to take time off from work or not go back at all for the same pay rate. Although your injuries are no fault of your own, you can receive fair compensation and financial support to make up for lost earnings and medical expenses through legal action. By following the steps shared in this article, you can significantly increase your chances of a successful claim. Remember to always consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer if you have any questions or concerns along the way.

Oblemic: A Comprehensive Review & Latest Research

Oblemic image

By: Health Digest

To learn more about Oblemic, visit the official Oblemic website.

Experiencing heightened hunger may signal elevated blood glucose levels, a commonly overlooked but potentially serious symptom. Consistent monitoring of blood glucose is essential, as prolonged high levels can result in insulin resistance, leading to a range of health complications including weight gain and metabolic syndrome. Although lifestyle changes can alleviate insulin resistance, supplements can further support these efforts.

Oblemic Reviews suggest that by integrating this supplement with healthy lifestyle choices, individuals may see significant improvements in their health. Unlike injectable treatments such as Ozempic and Wegovy, Oblemic is designed to provide similar benefits without the associated side effects. Formulated with ingredients aimed at regulating blood sugar levels, suppressing appetite, and promoting fat-burning, Oblemic offers a non-invasive alternative that supports users in maintaining an A1C level under 7%, and an average weight loss of 20 lbs.

In summary, Oblemic Reviews underscore the supplement’s dual benefits of enhancing insulin sensitivity and supporting weight loss. By addressing the root causes of insulin resistance, Oblemic not only aids in managing blood glucose levels but also contributes to overall metabolic health without the drawbacks of injectable treatments. This comprehensive review will explore the efficacy and ingredients of Oblemic in detail.

What is Oblemic?

Oblemic is marketed as a natural weight-loss supplement with ingredients purportedly effective in combating insulin resistance. This supplement aims to regulate blood sugar levels, suppress appetite, and activate fat-burning processes without adverse effects. According to Vitasource, the creators of Oblemic, users have reported achieving an A1C level under 7%, indicating controlled blood sugar levels.

Mechanism of Action

Oblemic targets insulin resistance, a condition where cells fail to respond effectively to insulin, leading to elevated blood glucose levels. Insulin is crucial for glucose metabolism and energy storage. Insulin resistance can result in prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, metabolic syndrome, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Research indicates that insulin resistance may promote weight gain through various mechanisms, including increased fat storage, heightened hunger due to excess insulin production, and a higher caloric intake relative to expenditure. While lifestyle interventions like diet and exercise are fundamental, supplements like Oblemic can potentially amplify these efforts.

Oblemic includes a proprietary blend of ingredients, each with unique properties that contribute to its overall efficacy.

Milk Thistle
Derived from the Silybum marianum plant, milk thistle in Oblemic contains silymarin, an active compound known for its antioxidant, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. It may protect the liver from various conditions, reduce free radical damage, and improve insulin sensitivity, particularly in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

Cayenne Fruit
Cayenne pepper, rich in Capsicum, is noted for its spicy flavor and potential health benefits. Studies have shown that capsaicin in Oblemic can lower blood glucose levels by increasing insulin levels and glycogen content. It may also enhance insulin secretion and glucose uptake.

Panax Ginseng
Panax ginseng, commonly used in traditional medicine, is believed to help manage diabetes by improving fasting glucose and insulin levels. However, its clinical effectiveness varies, and more research is needed to confirm its benefits. Oblemic incorporates this ingredient for its potential role in blood sugar regulation.

Banaba Leaf Extract
Banaba leaves in Oblemic contain corosolic acid and ellagic acid, compounds that enhance insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake. Additionally, these compounds inhibit alpha-glucosidase, an enzyme involved in carbohydrate digestion, and activate glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4), facilitating glucose transport to muscle and fat cells.

Green Tea
Green tea, rich in epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), has been associated with improved metabolic function and potential blood glucose regulation. While its efficacy varies across studies, green tea remains a popular ingredient in Oblemic for its antioxidant properties and potential weight-loss benefits.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA)
ALA is a naturally occurring fatty acid that may aid in weight management by reducing body mass index (BMI) and improving glucose metabolism. Oblemic includes ALA for its ability to lower fasting blood glucose levels, insulin concentration, insulin resistance, and HbA1C levels.

Berberine HCL
Berberine, a compound extracted from Berberis shrubs, activates the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) enzyme, which regulates metabolism and energy. Oblemic leverages berberine for its significant ability to lower blood glucose levels and promote weight loss by reducing body weight, BMI, belly fat, and C-reactive protein levels.

Resveratrol
Resveratrol, found in grape skins and seeds, is known for its antioxidant capacity. It may improve insulin sensitivity by blocking an enzyme that converts glucose into sorbitol, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. Oblemic utilizes resveratrol for its potential to enhance insulin sensitivity and overall metabolic health.

Oblemic Reviews

Oblemic Reviews: What Customers Are Saying

Sources: Vitasourcehealth.com, Facebook.com, Walmart.com

Alex
July 18, 2024

I began using Oblemic last December to aid in weight loss, and the results have been impressive. It has significantly curbed my appetite, allowing me to maintain healthier portion sizes. I’ve noticed a substantial weight reduction and feel much more energetic and motivated.

Sophia
July 14, 2024

Despite initial hesitation due to mixed reviews, my experience with Oblemic has been positive. I’ve lost 10 pounds in seven weeks. My appetite has greatly decreased, which has led to better dietary choices.

Rebecca
June 25, 2024

After a friend’s recommendation, I decided to try Oblemic for weight loss. My friend shed over 60 pounds, starting from 280 lbs. I had always maintained around 130 pounds until I gained 50 pounds over two years. Starting Oblemic at 182 pounds (I’m 5’4″), I have already lost 25 pounds in six months and continue to make progress. This supplement has been instrumental in reducing my appetite and food cravings.

Julia
June 1, 2024

I began taking Oblemic capsules on February 22nd and have since lost about 25 pounds in just over five weeks. My starting weight was 216 pounds, and I am now down to 191.2 pounds. I’m looking forward to further progress.

Laura
May 25, 2024

I started using Oblemic capsules for weight loss four months ago and have lost 34 pounds. The capsules have greatly reduced my appetite.

Patricia
May 12, 2024

Oblemic has been effective for me. Initially, I could only consume fresh fruits and vegetables, which led to a lifestyle change. Over six months, I lost 40 pounds, dropping from a size 14 to a size 4. This supplement has helped me achieve normal lab results and improve my overall health.

Terry
January 30, 2024

I started Oblemic capsules alongside other dietary changes in September and have lost 80 pounds in five months.

Melissa
September 6, 2023

I’ve been taking Oblemic capsules for four weeks to lose weight and have lost 18 pounds so far. The key is smaller portions!

Heather
July 21, 2023

The results have been moderate. After taking Oblemic capsules daily for weight loss, I lost 5 pounds in 30 days.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is insulin sensitivity? Insulin sensitivity refers to how effectively the body responds to insulin, allowing efficient glucose uptake by cells, muscles, fats, and organs. Higher insulin sensitivity correlates with lower insulin resistance.

Is Oblemic safe? Oblemic is a safe natural supplement manufactured in an FDA-registered, GMP-certified facility, and tested by third-party laboratories for purity and safety. However, individual responses may vary, and users should conduct due diligence before use.

How do I take Oblemic? Start with one Oblemic capsule daily, gradually increasing to two capsules. For optimal results, take each serving before the first meal of the day with water. Alternatively, it can be taken with the afternoon meal.

How much weight can I expect to lose on Oblemic? Users have reported losing up to 20 pounds on average, with results improving when combined with a healthy diet, exercise, and good lifestyle choices.

What other outcomes can I expect from Oblemic? In addition to weight loss, Oblemic may increase insulin sensitivity, regulate blood sugar levels, and enhance fat metabolism.

Do I need a prescription for Oblemic? No, Oblemic is a natural dietary supplement and does not require a prescription.

How long will it take for Oblemic shipments to arrive? Shipments within the contiguous United States typically take 5 to 7 business days, while international shipments may take at least 14 business days.

Is Oblemic protected by a money-back guarantee? Oblemic offers a 60-day money-back guarantee. If users do not experience improved blood sugar regulation or weight loss within 60 days, they can request a refund by contacting customer support.

How much does Oblemic cost? Pricing for Oblemic is as follows:

  • 1 bottle: $39 each
  • 3 bottles: $33 each
  • 6 bottles: $29 each

Oblemic Cost

About Vitasource

Vitasource is dedicated to providing high-quality supplements tested by third-party laboratories to ensure the highest standards. Their mission is to enhance health and happiness by offering reliable and effective products.

How is Oblemic Different?

Oblemic is a dual-purpose supplement designed to address weight loss and blood sugar regulation through improved insulin sensitivity. While the ingredients show promise, further research is necessary to generalize results across different populations. Supplements like Oblemic offer a safer alternative to prescription drugs, promoting healthy lifestyle changes.

To order Oblemic with 57% Off, visit the official Oblemic website.

How Technology Is Driving Person-Enabled Brain Health, Fueling Better Outcomes and Options | By Mark Lehmkuhle, PhD, CEO, Founder of Epitel

Mark Lehmkuhle on Brain Health
Mark Lehmkuhle, PhD, CEO, Founder of Epitel

For the many people who face the challenges of managing chronic conditions, the old model of care is not only becoming difficult but also prohibitive.

In brain health, traditional inpatient monitoring systems present a myriad of barriers. They often require travel to a specialized health center, are cumbersome and restrictive for patients, and technical requirements and limitations impede providers’ ability to even provide such services.

Today, advancements are disrupting this model to fuel the growth of person-enabled health and the ongoing treatment of chronic neurological disorders and conditions.

Patients want solutions that provide greater access, flexibility, and information and the market has listened. The Global Remote Healthcare Market Size was valued at $6.7 Billion in 2022 and is expected to reach USD 33.5 Billion by 2032, according to a research report published by Spherical Insights & Consulting.

Meeting individuals where they are in their everyday lives is the hallmark of person-enabled healthcare, and the ability to deliver on this promise—one that was once thought of as merely aspirational—is now a reality.

The Impact of Centralized Healthcare

Historically, epilepsy has been a key contributor to the overall cost of treating neurological conditions. A 2017 Annals of Neurology study reported the overall cost of treating neurological conditions to be nearly $800 Billion dollars annually. With average hospital stays of 3.6 days for patients with epilepsy, the aggregate hospital costs alone for people with epilepsy totaled approximately $2.5 billion.

According to The American Journal of Managed Care ( AJMC) reported data, whether it is the result of stroke or a chronic condition, epilepsy or convulsion diagnosis has led to more than 1 million emergency department (ED) visits and 280,000 hospital admissions.

Up until recently, there was little that could be done to mitigate these skyrocketing and ongoing costs attributed to the 70 million people across the world living with epilepsy.

Arguably, an even greater cost, and one that has been difficult to track, has been the negative impact that many patients experience on their quality of life. Indeed, a recent study revealed that almost one in two people living with epilepsy had reported poor quality of life. The unpredictability of seizures is a significant factor, eroding self-confidence and self-esteem. This can also include the stress of long-distance travel to a specialized medical facility and its associated expense, time away from family, work, and school, and losing the ability to function independently without being hindered by standard monitoring protocols, not to mention the long wait times of months to even get EEG monitoring.

Traditional paradigms, involving inpatient monitoring units, have been broken for a long time on all sides of the equation.

Existing EEG monitoring systems have traditionally been cumbersome and restrictive for patients. Technical requirements and limitations have impeded providers’ ability to administer, record, and interpret EEG. The one equalizing factor that has driven the rapid advancement of remote EEG monitoring technologies is that seizures rarely happen in the hospital; they happen wherever the patient may be at any given time and without notice.

Leading the Shift to Person-Enabled Healthcare: Remote EEG Monitoring Systems

Leveraging a more person-enabled framework that puts the patient at the center of it all helps providers ultimately deliver better outcomes through more personalized monitoring and treatment options for the multitude of patients experiencing infrequent seizures that standard 72-hour ambulatory EEG studies may miss or be unable to differentiate adequately.

Extended-duration ambulatory EEGs can amass weeks’ worth of data needed to detect and assess seizures accurately. This data is valuable for forming an informed diagnosis, but reviewing and interpreting large volumes of data is time-consuming for neurologists and can itself lead to lengthy delays for patients and providers finalizing informed treatment decisions.

There is a clinical need though for this data. Patients with infrequent seizures may go years without a definitive diagnosis and characterization of their seizure events, which may result in the use of medications that are not necessary, drastically increasing out-of-pocket costs and overall burden on the healthcare system. Most significantly, some patients may not be started on medications because the events they experience went unrecorded and thus could never be confirmed to be seizures.

Now, remote EEG monitoring technologies offer a more personalized level of care through the use of single-use, single-patient, disposable, wearable sensors intended to amplify, capture, and wirelessly transmit the brain’s electrical activity for weeks. These new technologies give patients and caregivers more control of the monitoring process. And they also remove the burdens of fully wired systems that can inhibit patients from performing daily activities and bring with them additional stigma.

Patient-Enabled Innovations in Brain Health Help Deliver Treatment Strategies with Greater Precision, Faster

Remote monitoring can provide new opportunities for the field of brain health using advancements in technology, such as patient-enabled mobile software applications.

Remote monitoring of patients brings the promise of further improving outcomes for patients, allowing medical professionals to cull insights and deliver treatment strategies with a higher level of ease and speed of interpretation. New technologies fill that promise for brain health monitoring by getting EEG data from remote EEG sensors on patients’ scalps to secure cloud-based environments where the data can be reviewed and interpreted by qualified medical professionals.

With the help of AI/ML technology, remote monitoring technologies will, over time, also improve our ability to detect potential seizures, with individual patient data driving informed diagnoses and leading to a world where physicians can provide better, more informed clinical care. These investments and innovations in remote healthcare and more specifically, remote monitoring for brain health, are helping patients and providers make better-informed treatment decisions and achieve great strides in patient options and outcomes.

Remote monitoring technologies are clearly set to make a difference for patients in a broader way than ever before by acting as a key agent for change across the broader patient-enabled paradigm.

More here.

 

 

Ora Announces Strategic Investment from The Vistria Group to Propel Global Growth, Enhance Customer Experience in Ophthalmic Research

Ora, the leading global ophthalmic contract research organization (CRO), is excited to announce that it has been recapitalized by The Vistria Group, a middle-market private investment firm that seeks to deliver both financial returns and societal impact.

With this investment, The Vistria Group will support Ora as the globally preferred clinical research partner of ophthalmic innovators. It also marks The Vistria Group’s commitment to further supporting cutting-edge therapies and advancing diversity in specialized clinical research. Ora is the seventh company in The Vistria Group’s pharma services portfolio and underscores the firm’s continued focus on life sciences.

“Ora is a leader in ophthalmic clinical research, and we are delighted to partner with the Ora team in the next chapter of its growth. We invested in Ora because of its strong globally recognized brand, demonstrated innovation, service excellence, and tenured team of ophthalmology veterans, many who have worked together for decades, leading to an unparalleled record bringing over 85 drugs and devices to market,” says Natasha Latif, Partner for Healthcare at The Vistria Group. “We are excited to build on Ora’s track record of success of partnering with customers and bringing new life-enhancing treatments to patients around the world.”

Ora’s President, Chairman & CEO, Stuart Abelson will transition to Ora’s board of directors where he will focus on vision, strategy, customer relationships and organizational culture. Paul Colvin, who has served as Ora’s Chief Operating Officer for the past year and a half and a veteran CRO leader with over 30 years of experience, will become Ora’s CEO.

Stuart Abelson noted,

“We are proud to have built a company where the best talent in ophthalmology comes to work and thrive. At Ora, we prioritize our employees and place the patient at the center of everything we do. This approach allows us to serve our clients and support our research sites to deliver the highest quality data, ensuring each drug and device has the best chance of success. Ora’s brand is renowned globally as the go-to place for ophthalmology research, and we are honored to support many of the most exciting and impactful development programs across all ophthalmic indications. The Vistria Group’s investment will allow us to continue scaling Ora’s global operations and implementing advanced technologies to support ophthalmology innovators in developing the next generation of products. With Paul Colvin as CEO, Ora is well positioned for its next phase of growth, leveraging his extensive experience in leading large CROs.”

Paul Colvin, Ora CEO, stated, “After a year and a half at Ora, I have come to appreciate why we are able to attract the best talent and deliver next-level service for clients. Our therapeutic focus, innovative research methods, models, scales, global research site network, and tenured team deliver an unparalleled customer experience that creates the high-quality reproducible data essential for our clients to efficiently develop their products. Our longstanding leadership team is fully engaged and excited about The Vistria Group’s investment. We remain committed to upholding the Ora experience that our clients have come to expect, ensuring continuity, innovation, and excellence as we embark on this new chapter together.”

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Nurses Have Voted to Ratify New MNA Contract | Featuring Significant Investment in Nursing and Patient Care

The almost 800 registered nurses and nurse practitioners at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI), represented by the Massachusetts Nurses Association (MNA), have voted overwhelmingly to ratify a new contract agreement that provides market-leading investments in nurses, enabling DFCI to retain experienced nurses and recruit the nurses necessary to delivering exceptional cancer care and conducting innovative research.

“We are incredibly proud of the care we provide Dana-Farber patients and the unity our nurses have shown in securing the resources we need to continue delivering exceptional care,” said Stephen Laughlin, RN, MNA Chair at DFCI. “The new Dana-Farber nurse contract will help us maintain our top of the market status and allow the institute to recruit and retain top nurses who provide cutting edge cancer treatments.”

DFCI nurses voted by mail, with the vote count occurring on July 18. Their new two-year contract covers January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2025. The ratification comes as Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital nurses are on the verge of strike authorization votes. Nurses at both hospitals are seeking strong investments by MGB in their RN workforces to overcome unsafe staffing and patient care conditions.

DFCI RN Contract Highlights

  • Wage Increases: To keep up with a competitive nurse market and complex patient care challenges, DFCI agreed to provide a 9% raise to all nurses in the first year of the contract, including retroactive pay. Nurses will receive a 3% increase in year two with a new partial top step created that is 3% above the current top wage scale step.
  • Attracting Newer Nurses: DFCI agreed to drop the current bottom wage scale step of the contract, raising the rate for newer nurses and making the institute more competitive in this recruitment area.
  • On-Call Improvement: The on-call pay rate will increase to the state’s minimum wage (currently $15/hour). Historically, at DFCI and elsewhere on-call hourly rates have been much lower than the minimum wage and regular pay, burdening nurses who face demanding on-call responsibilities amid an increasing need for expert nursing care.
  • Grievance Enhancement: Nurses will now be able to file collective grievances when confronting violations of their contract. Previously, only individual grievances were allowed. DFCI nurses will be able to join together while seeking resolution of violations in which they are similarly affected.
  • Seniority Scheduling: DFCI nurses negotiated scheduling by seniority into their contract to ensure a fair application of scheduling by management across hospital units.