Reflections on the Digital Health Landscape in 2024
As we look back on the year that was, executives from various sectors of the digital health landscape shared their thoughts on the unexpected and impactful events that shaped 2024. From the closure of retail clinics to the challenges in the Medicare Advantage market, the FDA’s concerns about off-label advertising, the diverse applications of AI, and the evolving uses of GLP-1s, the year was filled with significant developments.
Matt Cybulsky, LBMC
One of the most surprising events of the year was the closure of initiatives by major players like Walmart, Forward Health, Dollar General, and Olive in the digital health space. This left industry leaders pondering the reasons behind these shutdowns and highlighted the need for a deeper understanding of what works in these models before rushing products to market. The importance of rigorous testing and building trust with the public in the face of rapidly advancing AI technologies cannot be overstated.
Peter Bonis, MD, Wolters Kluwer Health
The lead-up to the 2024 election may have been muted in terms of healthcare discussions, but the aftermath brought about significant changes in the industry. Challenges in the Medicare Advantage market, shifts in retail health, and changes in regulatory bodies and government appointments set the stage for a transformative period in healthcare. The increasing investments in AI and the potential advancements in artificial general intelligence and robotics further underscore the evolving landscape of healthcare technology.
Dr. Mitesh Rao, OMNY Health
The July CrowdStrike outage served as a stark reminder of the reliance of health systems on technology infrastructure for delivering care. The disruption caused chaos across multiple sectors, highlighting the critical role of technology in providing safe and timely healthcare services. The incident emphasized the need for robust systems and contingency plans to ensure continuity of care in the face of unforeseen events.
Dr. Michael Howell, Google
The recognition of two Googlers with a Nobel Prize in Chemistry was a moment of pride for the healthcare and life sciences industries. The significance of protein folding in understanding health and disease was underscored, highlighting the foundational role of proteins in medical research and patient care. The award served as a testament to the importance of scientific advancements in shaping the future of healthcare.
Hilary Hatch, Phreesia
The renewed focus on menopause in 2024 led to a surge in startups, investments, and conversations around women’s health. The attention to this previously overlooked area revealed significant unmet needs and paved the way for innovative approaches to addressing menopausal symptoms. The increased awareness and investment in menopause signal a positive shift towards prioritizing women’s health and well-being.
Brooke Boyarsky Pratt, knownwell
Regulatory challenges around off-label advertising and accessibility issues for GLP-1 therapies posed significant hurdles for manufacturers and insurers in 2024. The scrutiny from regulatory bodies and the push for wider coverage highlighted the importance of compliance and equitable access to healthcare treatments. Addressing these challenges will be crucial in ensuring patient safety and improving healthcare outcomes.
Don Woodlock, InterSystems
The rapid adoption of AI in healthcare presented unexpected challenges related to patient privacy and ethical decision-making. The need for establishing clear guidelines and regulations to govern the use of AI technologies became a pressing concern. As AI continues to advance, healthcare professionals and regulators must work together to address the ethical implications and ensure responsible use of these powerful tools.
Elliott Green, Dandelion Health
The identification of new uses for GLP-1s beyond weight management and the slow pace of investment in AI were notable trends in 2024. The potential for oral versions of these drugs to unlock new therapeutic opportunities underscores the importance of continued research and innovation in precision medicine. The expanding applications of GLP-1s hold promise for improving patient outcomes and driving advancements in healthcare.
Laurent Martinot, Sunrise
The emerging evidence of GLP-1s’ efficacy in treating sleep apnea signals a promising development in sleep health. The potential benefits of anti-obesity medications for patients with sleep apnea highlight the interconnected nature of chronic conditions and the importance of holistic treatment approaches. Looking ahead, we can expect to see increased utilization of these medications as part of comprehensive care strategies for patients with obesity and sleep disorders.
Dickon Waterfield, Lantern
The rising costs in healthcare are prompting a reevaluation of digital health solutions by employers. The shift towards streamlining offerings and implementing cost-saving measures reflects a broader trend towards optimizing healthcare spending. Employers are increasingly focusing on efficient plan design and utilization management to ensure sustainable and affordable healthcare options for their employees.
Hal Andrews, Trilliant Health
The unexpected outcome of the 2024 election and the reception of the Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company highlighted the complexities of health policy and economics. The debate around cost-plus business models and their implications for healthcare costs underscored the need for sustainable and transparent pricing mechanisms. As the industry continues to evolve, addressing cost challenges will be a key priority for shaping the future of healthcare.
