The healthcare industry is constantly evolving, with new developments and controversies arising all the time. Here are some of the latest updates in the world of health and medicine:
Damian Garde Returns to STAT:
In an exciting development, Damian Garde is back at STAT. He will be making his public debut in a virtual pop-up event today at 1 p.m. EST. The event, titled “The Once and Future Moderna,” will see Damian discussing his recent story on Moderna’s unraveling. This event follows Damian’s earlier piece on the company’s secretive beginnings almost a decade ago.
The Latest Battle in the Indirect Costs War:
The NIH recently announced a plan to cut funding to academic institutions for overhead “indirect” research costs. This decision has sparked controversy, with almost two dozen states and various academic groups challenging the policy as arbitrary and capricious. The Trump administration’s stance on the issue has also been met with skepticism by federal judges. The ongoing legal feud is just one aspect of the efforts to shape indirect cost policy.
Where SNAP Stands, Six Days into November:
President Trump’s recent threat to withhold emergency funding for SNAP until the end of the government shutdown created uncertainty around aid distribution. While some states like Nevada have managed to deliver partial benefits, others like Oregon and Texas are facing delays. In response, restaurants are stepping up to offer discounted or free meals to those affected by the SNAP cuts.
Today: An FDA Committee on Chatbots and Regulation:
An FDA advisory committee is set to discuss the regulation of therapy chatbots and other mental health devices that use generative AI. With concerns mounting about the impact of these technologies, the meeting aims to address the confusion surrounding FDA review requirements and approval processes. The meeting comes at a time when the use of AI in mental health is under scrutiny.
Boom Times for Hair Loss Treatments:
Investors are showing increased interest in hair loss treatments, with two startups recently raising $270 million for developing solutions for androgenetic alopecia. This shift in investor focus can be attributed to the consumer-centric nature of healthcare. With even renowned biotech figures like George Church venturing into hair restoration projects, the landscape of hair loss treatments is evolving rapidly.
Poll: Most Americans Support Enhanced ACA Tax Credits:
The extension of Affordable Care Act’s enhanced tax subsidies is a contentious issue that has contributed to the ongoing government shutdown. Recent polling shows that a majority of Americans, including Democrats, independents, and some Republicans, support the continuation of these tax credits. The data reflects a consistent trend of public opinion on the matter.
These updates highlight the diverse range of issues facing the healthcare sector today. From regulatory battles to public support for healthcare initiatives, the industry continues to be a hotbed of activity and debate. Stay tuned for more developments in the ever-evolving world of health and medicine.
