Entries tagged with “healthcare”
Articles
29 articles found for healthcare:
- Gamification in Healthcare
Gamification is gaining importance as an interesting way to interact with customers, keep them engaged with brands, personalize offerings, and collect relevant data in the process. The healthcare industry has recognized the value of incorporating rewards and recognition to entice patients to participate in a health regimen. There has been an influx of fitness apps and devices using gamification in novel ways to attract and retain users. Some companies have done this successfully and reaped its benefits.
- CRISPR Therapeutics – Transforming Healthcare
CRISPR technology has been gaining prominence as a realistic treatment option for genetic diseases. Major recent licensing activity is seen from pharmaceutical companies that are also investing in startups in this domain. While technology could revolutionize healthcare, especially for genetic diseases, it has its shortcomings and research is ongoing to address them for wider adoption of CRISPR.
- Innovating Healthcare with Self-balancing Tech
The emerging self-balancing technology has the potential to revolutionize healthcare. When integrated with healthcare, it could enhance patient care by providing stable platforms for medical equipment and healthcare providers. There is potential to develop self-balancing devices that could assist patients with limited mobility, improving their independence and quality of life. By minimizing stability, self-balancing technology has the power to elevate patient care, fostering a safer and more efficient healthcare ecosystem.
- CRISPR Technology – An Emerging Solution in Healthcare
CRISPR technology has been gaining growing acceptance and popularity in the healthcare sector. Its varied applications in medical science has fostered innovations, with many startups entering the fray. However, CRISPR is a complex concept, and the technology is still at the nascent stage of development. Many new applications are under trials and await approval for launch. Moreover, the technology is marred with some underlying ethical issues. A strong regulatory framework will ensure the appropriate use of CRISPR.
- Smart Healthcare: The Dawn of a New Era in the Post-Pandemic World
The global pandemic created a humanitarian and economic crisis; nonetheless, it accelerated technological innovation across industries. Healthcare, the most directly affected sector, had to quickly adopt and implement modern technologies to handle the crisis. Healthcare systems across the world were challenged due to the surge in demand and workload pressure. This led to a wave of technological transformations and accelerated the adoption of digital capabilities to enhance efficiency. With this, the process of health check evolved, undergoing several structural changes.
- Can GPT-4 Contribute to the Healthcare Industry Metamorphosis?
According to Accenture's projections, the implementation of AI applications can reduce annual healthcare costs by USD 150 billion in the US by 2026. AI Chatbots, which are gaining popularity, can do more than just chat. They can potentially combine language skills with image and video recognition. Consequently, the next generation of large language models (LLMs), such as GPT-4, trained in multiple modalities, can become versatile AI capable of performing various tasks. The year 2023 has already brought exciting developments in healthcare AI, and the future promises technological interventions that will revolutionize the healthcare and life sciences industries.
- Unlocking a Billion-Dollar Opportunity: HPC in Healthcare for MedTech and IT Firms
High Performance Computing (HPC) has emerged as a transformative force that promises to revolutionize the industry in ways never seen before. As demand for innovative medical solutions and data-driven insights continues to grow, HPC technologies present a compelling opportunity for MedTech and IT firms. It could significantly impact patient care, medical research, and bottom-line growth for businesses in the healthcare ecosystem.
- Impact of Biosimilars on Treatment Landscape in US and EU
Rising healthcare costs vis-à-vis the expanding population and lifestyle-related diseases are some of the key areas of concern across the globe. Governments and the healthcare industry, in particular, have been exploring avenues to address these challenges while offering affordable healthcare services. Digital health users opted for online prescriptions and virtual consulting during the pandemic for faster transformation of the health care delivery. However, advances such as development of biosimilars are a key step toward addressing the concerns of the escalating cost of healthcare and patients' access to critical medicines.
- Cell and Gene Therapy – The Next Frontier in Lifesciences
In this era of rapid scientific and technological advancements, we are at the precipice of a healthcare revolution. Cell and Gene therapy (CGT), pioneering treatments that leverage our own biology, are poised to challenge traditional healthcare frameworks. CGT has been witnessing an expanding total addressable market and is expected to grow exponentially. However, the potential gains are not merely financial. Investments in this growing field also help propel the momentum of scientific and medical progress, funding vital research that brings us closer to a more efficient, personalized, and holistic healthcare future. This article attempts to present the current and future landscape of CGT, with a focus on the clinical pipeline evolution, strategic collaborations, and financing and investment environment globally.
- Climate Change – A Threat to Human Health
Climate change is causing various adverse effects on human health, including the increased frequency and severity of extreme weather events, degradation of air quality, and spread of insect-borne diseases. Adaptation measures such as improving infrastructure to withstand adverse weather and providing adequate healthcare services in areas most vulnerable to climate change effects could help mitigate its negative impact.
- National Health Stack - A Feasible Reality or Distant Dream?
The Government of India has designed healthcare initiatives under Ayushman Bharat Yojna to help the low-income households get medical treatments at nominal cost. National Health Stack (NHS) has been designed to support these initiatives and aid implementation of digital health infrastructure. While NHS had many benefits, its enactment involves certain challenges. It is essential to overcome hurdles and ensure that this plan is correctly implemented nationwide.
- Latest Trends in Regenerative Medicine
Healthcare and medicine are in a constant state of evolution. Innovative technologies such as regenerative medicine are bringing about a paradigm shift in the healthcare industry. While the segment does raise some moral questions, it is witnessing huge capital infusion from pharmaceutical companies. Despite the major challenges associated with regenerative medicine, industry trends indicate that it is poised for growth.
- Nutraceuticals - Going Beyond Contemporary Therapeutics
Nutraceuticals are isolated from foods and sold in medicinal form. They provide physiological benefits and protection against chronic diseases. With the rise in health awareness and focus on fitness, concepts like nutraceuticals are gaining prominence. Research aims to make nutraceuticals more accessible.
- Opportunities for Improved CAR T Cell Therapy
Research and technological advancements are targeting the limitations of chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR T) cell therapy to improve its efficiency, minimize side effects, and reduce manufacturing costs. Most of these technologies are under development and will take time to be implemented. Through these advancements, the future holds promising prospects to overcome the challenges associated with CAR T cell therapy.
- Technologies to Detect Thyroid Disorder
Hormonal imbalance due to thyroid dysfunction can lead to various health issues for both men and women. Quick and accurate diagnosis of this imbalance aids in early prognosis, treatment, and health management. There are many new-age detection devices as well as sensor technologies that can help in accurate assessment of this imbalance and aid caregivers in providing the right treatment.
- Gearing up for the Next Wave of AI in Pharmaceutical Industry – From Cost-based to Value-based models
Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping business operations in the health industry. Amid the ever-evolving AI infrastructure, growth in tech-savvy patients and availability of big data, the industry is set to make a transition from using AI for controlling costs to utilizing it for improving patient care. The AI in healthcare market is estimated to reach $6.6Bn in 2021 from $600Mn in 2014, recording a CAGR of 40%; in the five years subsequent to 2021, the market is estimated to grow by more than 10 times.1 In this article, we provide insights on the applications of AI in patient-centric models for improving patient care, from diagnosis to post-treatment care.
- Veterinary Medicine – An Emerging Segment
The global veterinary market is benefitting from the growing trend of pet adoption and is witnessing increased demand. Some interesting trends are changing this industry and key players in this space must be aware of these factors. These trends will change the face of veterinary medicine and bring about advancement in animal healthcare.
- The Internet of Behavior: Shaping the Future of Data-Driven Insights
Today’s interconnected world has given companies access to an immense amount of data. This data can be used to predict human behavior, possible outcomes to a certain situation, general behavioral patterns, and design offerings accordingly. This process is called Internet of Behavior (IoB) and can be used in various fields such as marketing, healthcare, insurance, and even policy making.
- Applications of Nanotechnology in Diagnostic Testing
Nanotechnology, the manipulation of matter on an atomic and molecular scale, has emerged as a revolutionary field with diverse applications across various industries, including healthcare. In the realm of diagnostics, nanotechnology offers promising advancements, from early disease detection to point-of-care testing and personalized therapeutics, that hold the potential to radically transform how diseases are detected and monitored.
- Thematic Investing on the Rise
Disruptive technology is constantly reshaping the world. Despite the pandemic-induced lockdown, seamless internet connectivity enabled access to a virtual world where we could work, shop, and even meet people. Due to mobility restriction, labor shortage, and supply chain disruption, manufacturers have turned to robotics. Breakthrough treatments and medical advances in healthcare have helped combat the pandemic crisis. Climate change has shed light on vehicle electrification and the shift to renewable energy. Consequently, technological advancements such as AI, machine learning, blockchain, robotics, and data analytics are gaining popularity. The benefits of these disruptions, or rather “trends” and “themes,” are manifold. These trends are increasingly changing the way investors manage their portfolios.
- The Ripple Effect: Innovation Disrupting Industries
The last decade has witnessed that innovation in one industry has transcended traditional industry boundaries and disrupted businesses across industries. The pace of trans-industry disruptive innovations is expected to accelerate in the coming decades, blur the lines between sectors, and emphasize the importance of cross-industry collaboration and adaptability for sustained success.
- Exploring the Issue of Hair Loss and Underlying Health Conditions
Hair loss affects a large section of the global population irrespective of age, gender, and ethnicity. This issue can be ascribed to multiple factors including genetic predisposition, lifestyle choices, and environmental influences; however, it also serves as a subtle yet revealing indicator of underlying health conditions.
- Gene Therapy: Revolutionizing Type 1 Diabetes Care
Type 1 diabetes results from intricate interactions between genetic predisposition and environmental triggers. Existing treatments often fall short of providing sustained relief, prompting the search for alternative solutions. Gene therapy offers such avenues by either reprogramming alpha cells to perform beta cell function or providing gene editing tools that cut out damaged DNA altogether. The landscape of cell and gene therapy is ever evolving, accelerated by substantial investments, novel technology, and strategic partnerships among key major players. Cutting-edge technology, regulatory backing, and favorable market conditions are propelling alternative therapies towards mainstream acceptance.
- Recent Technological Innovation Turning Metaverse into a Reality
The metaverse is growing exponentially as various industries are showing interest in its potential. However, the virtual world must be comprehensive and authentic to entice users and be of use, which requires advanced software platforms and supportive hardware such as VR headsets, lenses, sensory gloves, and earphones. The metaverse can be totally immersive if it can engage maximum user senses and provide a holistic experience. Companies looking to foray into this space are investing in the development of smart platforms and innovative products as well as research on new platforms that add value to users. This article lists interesting hardware innovations that will enable metaverse into reality.
- Global Market Opportunity for Bio-Based Resins
Bio-based resin is being increasingly adopted across industries as the need for sustainability has risen. Bio-based resins, made from partially or wholly plant-derived monomers, offer a sustainable and carbon-positive approach for consumers and manufacturers shifting to a bioeconomy model from highly-priced and depleting fossil fuel ingredients. Government regulations have also boosted their application. Successful commercialization is leading to the growth of bio-based resin throughout the world.
- GLP-1 Agonists: Revolutionizing Metabolic Disease Management
GLP-1 agonists, led by Semaglutide, are reshaping metabolic disease management. Semaglutide boasts superior glycemic control, significant weight loss, and potential cardiovascular benefits, all in a convenient weekly injection. However, cost, side effects, injection delivery, and adherence pose challenges. Solutions like insurance coverage expansion, alternative administration methods, and comprehensive patient education pave the way for broader access and maximized benefits. Semaglutide joins a universe of GLP-1 options, and with patents expiring, the future holds promise for more affordable, transformative treatments. This is a new dawn for metabolic health, bringing hope to millions.
- Mass Production to Mass Customization: Pharma Production at Crossroads
The pharmaceutical industry, traditionally based on mass production to meet global medication demands, is now experiencing a transformation due to technological advancements, changing consumer preferences, and the rise of personalized medicine. This shift is challenging the traditional mass production model as the industry moves towards mass customization, aiming to provide tailored drugs for individual patients' requirements.
- Towards a Greener Future: The Rise of Eco-Friendly Disposable Hygiene Products
Disposable absorbent hygiene products are becoming more popular among people of all ages and socioeconomic groups. Campaigns for public education, wider availability of the goods, and enhanced marketing initiatives have contributed to normalizing the use of these products and lowering the stigma attached to them. There is a rise in the need for absorbent hygiene products, notably those for adult incontinence, as many nations' populations are getting older. The need for disposable absorbent hygiene products has been influenced by contemporary lifestyles, which include busy schedules, lengthy workdays, and substantial travel.
- The Role of Technology in Tracking and Improving Mental Wellbeing
Mental wellbeing has become a major concern for people of all ages in the modern world. Technology is being developed to help people manage their mental health, which can affect their overall wellbeing. Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, virtual reality, and wearables are being used to create innovative solutions for mental wellness. The growing acceptance of and demand for innovative products in this space indicates there is significant untapped potential.
Blogs
3 blog posts found for healthcare:
- Virtual Healthcare – Relevance Post the Pandemic
The pandemic brought fore the need for and importance of virtual care. Apart from eliminating distance, virtual health can support in-person care as part of an integrated healthcare strategy. It addresses underserved and under resourced patient populations. By enhancing accessibility, convenience, and the experience of receiving and providing treatment, it has the potential to be advantageous for both patients and doctors. But will it continue to see robust growth post the pandemic?
- Healthtech Startups - Driving Innovations in Healthcare
Technology enabled vertical of healthcare is known as healthtech. This sector has recently seen many startups offering innovative products or services that improve the distribution of healthcare or support it in other ways. While developed countries have seen its quick adoption, emerging nations are also increasingly accepting it and implementing these products to make their healthcare more efficient. The venture capitalist and investment companies have taken notice of the growth in this sector and have been investing in promising startups.
- Founder’s Stock Sale — How Not to Turn it Into a 409A Nightmare
A Founders’ Stock sale can have serious and far reaching implications on the pricing of stock options due to 409A provisions.
While the extent of the impact can vary significantly, it’s important to understand when this affects companies the most as well as how they can structure such transactions to mitigate these effects.
Special Reports
13 special reports found for healthcare:
- Advanced Applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Healthcare
Artificial Intelligence's transformative impact on healthcare includes advanced treatments developed by major industry players. In nanomedicine, AI optimizes drug formulations and delivery, reducing side effects by analyzing complex biological data and predicting drug interactions. ML algorithms, like convolutional neural networks, revolutionize medical imaging for precise disease diagnosis with diverse imaging techniques. Integrating AI in surgical robotics, personalized medication, and virtual & augmented reality can reshape healthcare by enhancing quality, efficiency, and accessibility of care.
- US Home Healthcare Sector: Resurgence After a Period of Contraction
The US home healthcare market is characterized by high fragmentation and competition, mostly comprising small-scale local providers. Major players such as Amedisys, Addus, Aveanna, Brookdale Senior Living, and The Pennant Group (public and private) dominate the landscape. This sector's growth is propelled by an aging population, escalating healthcare costs, and an increasing age dependency ratio. While the growing senior population pushes up healthcare costs, providing care in home settings can reduce expense. Reimbursement trends are shifting toward value based models and facilitating enhanced patient outcomes. Despite challenges like shrinking margins, the sector rebounded in 2023 post COVID-induced disruptions, driven by technological advancements and demographic factors. This resurgence after a period of contraction reflects the sector's resilience and potential for continued growth.
- Amalgamation of AI in Pharmaceutical Drug Development
Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the pharmaceutical industry by helping to accelerate drug discovery, improve manufacturing processes, and personalize patient care. AI-powered tools can analyze vast amounts of data to identify new drug targets, design more effective molecules, and predict the safety and efficacy of potential treatments. As AI continues to mature, it is poised to play an even greater role in the pharmaceutical industry, helping to develop new drugs and improve patient outcomes faster and more efficiently than ever before.
- HealthTech Decoded 1H22
HealthTech funding cools down in 1H22, while the number of investments reached new heights as new subsectors with innovative solutions emerged.
Investment momentum in connected care continues to be on the lead for VC investors, as telehealth and patient monitoring are among the top trends of 2022. COVID-19 forced healthcare professionals to deliver care to patients from the remotest corners of the world.
Big software and tech giants such as Microsoft, Amazon, Google, and Oracle make a concerted push toward healthcare. On June 8, 2022, Oracle (NYS: ORCL) acquired Cerner for approximately USD 28.3 billion, the largest M&A deal in the history of HealthTech. The acquisition may be enable Oracle to capitalize on the emerging cloud opportunity in the healthcare sector.
Global M&A deals decreased in the first six months of 2022 as the world’s major economies raised interest rate to tame runaway inflation, grappled with the conflict in Ukraine, and faced a bearish stock market. 2Q22 has recorded the lowest quarterly number of deals in the last four years as dealmakers fretted about the growing probability of a recession.
In this edition of HealthTech Decoded, we bring you insights into the sector’s performance after the extended pandemic outbreak as well as notable funding trends across the globe in the HealthTech space in 1H22.
- HealthTech Decoded: 2021
HealthTech deal activity reached new heights in 2021 as new subsectors with innovative solutions emerged. Connected care maintained its position as a hotbed of investment activity, as consumers continued to seek virtual healthcare advice rather than in-person visits. As the pandemic prompted healthcare providers to modernize tech stacks, companies providing data management solutions saw a significant rise in demand. Similarly, the increase in corporate wellness initiatives encouraged investments in enterprise HealthTech solutions. As overall liquidity in the market remained high, 2021 also saw the number of megadeals surge 2x vis-à-vis 2020. In this edition of HealthTech Decoded, we bring you insights into the sector’s performance after the extended pandemic outbreak as well as notable funding trends across the globe in the HealthTech space in 2021.
- Global M&A - Q3 2022
In the third quarter, dealmakers’ appetite for M&A fell even further. The number of global M&A transactions declined for the third consecutive quarter in Q3 2022, as the rising interest rates, continued inflation, and impending recession posed challenges for dealmakers. The total deal value was US$ 573 billion in Q3 2022, a 42% decrease from the previous quarter’s total of US$ 981 billion.
Despite the general slowdown in the M&A market, investors increased stakes in various areas, including technology, real estate, industrials, and healthcare. The amount of M&A activity this year has been considerably less than anticipated. Inflation, global unrest, and rising interest rates are some factors that slowed M&A activity this year. However, these factors may present opportunities for dealmakers in 2023, including distressed M&A and ESG opportunities, with the energy and technology sectors expected to dominate in the near future.
- Europe & North America MedTech strengthens in 1H23
In a notable development, most MedTech companies in Europe and the US topped consensus estimates in 1H23 earnings, largely on a rewind in procedure volume and efficient execution of cost-saving strategy. Patient count surged in hospitals as people opted for non-urgent surgical treatment after delaying care during the pandemic, thereby accelerating demand for medical devices. This trend bodes well for MedTech giants Stryker, Zimmer Biomet, and Philips. Moreover, the decrease in supply chain constraints eased pressure on margins. Contrarily, extra retention charges of nursing staff pressured Fresenius Medical Care and Fresenius SE. Further, companies such as Philips, Stryker, and Baxter have lifted their 2023 guidance on improved surgery volumes. Conversely, on continuation of a softer environment for biopharma services, Danaher, and its peer ThermoFisher have narrowed their this year estimates.
- Global Private Equity Factbook – Q4 2022
Global PE investment activities improved in Q4 2022 with better access to private credit. Deal activity is anticipated to stay slow owing to the unstable macroenvironment; however, the record high level of dry powder is expected to encourage small-sized deals in 2023.
In Q4 2022, PE deals volume increased 7% with continued investments in public companies and add-on targets. Capital invested expanded 15% while deteriorating company valuations led to fewer exists. PE fundraising continued to decrease as LPs remained cautious. IT, energy, and transportation sector deals accounted for 67% of total PE investments in Q4.
Investment activity is likely to maintain a slow pace in the coming quarter as PE firms focus on creating value and identifying potential targets active in recession-resistant sectors such as the information technology and healthcare.
This edition of the Global Private Equity Factbook offers insights on global PE investment activity, features key sectors targeted, and provides an outlook for the industry in the coming quarters.
- Shifting Sands - The Demographic Drivers of Change in Emerging Economies
In emerging economies, demographic shifts are becoming powerful drivers of change, shaping the trajectory of economic growth, social development, and market dynamics. One of the most prominent demographic trends in emerging economies is the youth bulge. With a significant portion of the population under the age of 30, these economies possess a dynamic and energetic workforce poised to fuel innovation, entrepreneurship, and productivity gains. Urbanization is another key driver, where rapid urbanization is conducive for the proliferation of megacities and urban clusters, thus creating hubs of economic activity, innovation, and consumption. Moreover, changing family structures and shifting gender dynamics are influencing consumer preferences, household spending patterns, and labor market participation in such nations. Women's increasing participation in the workforce and decision-making processes is reshaping industries such as retail, healthcare, and finance, thus propelling demand for products and services tailored to their needs. Understanding the demographic drivers of change in emerging economies is essential for businesses, investors, and policymakers seeking to navigate the evolving landscape and capitalize on promising opportunities.
- High Yield – US Spotlight
After recording a plunge in the US high yield bond returns in 2022, the Federal Reserve’s aggressive monetary policy stance to tame inflation proved crucial in driving asset prices in 2023. The possibility of a soft-landing, where the US Fed could afford to slowdown economy and avoid a recession, has favored higher-beta fixed income assets such as the US speculative grade corporate bonds. We observed this in 9M’23, where the US high yield corporate bond Index generated returns at ~6% whereas the US Investment Grade Bond Index remained flat. Barring Equity and Energy, the US high yield corporate bonds outperformed other asset classes like the US treasuries, gold, and metals. As recessionary fears subsided, spreads across all rating categories of the US high yield bonds (i.e., BB, B, CCC and lower) have tightened. However, due to higher borrowing costs, the number of High Yield Corporate Bond issuances remains below the five-year average. Notably, consumer discretionary and healthcare sectors remain challenged by multiple headwinds, such as muted consumer demand, pricing pressures, high labor costs, and rising input costs. The impact is witnessed from the fact that a major chunk of bankruptcy protection filings has been in these sectors. Overall, bankruptcies in YTD Aug’23 have surpassed 2021 and 2022 levels. We still see value in the real estate, materials, and utilities sector, which recorded relatively lower bankruptcies in 2023.
- Global Private Equity Factbook – Q2 2023
Amid difficult macroeconomic circumstances and increased financing expense, the second quarter of 2023 showed a positive upturn in global private equity investments. This encouraging trend can largely be attributed to the influence of private credit. The momentum in deal-making is expected to persist, fueled by ample funds and a strong focus on expansion strategies.
In the dynamic landscape of Q2 2023, deal activities experienced an 11% surge, predominantly fueled by a notable increase in the volume of add-on deals. However, the enthusiasm for larger buyout transactions was dampened by the ripple effects of higher interest rates and lingering economic uncertainties. Private investment in public equity strategies and growth/expansion transactions together accounted for a substantial 77% of the total deal volume. Capital deployment surged 17% to USD465 billion, largely driven by private investments. While North America, MENA, and Latin America experienced heightened investment activities, Europe's decline persisted as a notable contrast.
PE exits saw a considerable surge, mainly due to secondary sales and IPOs. Simultaneously, the fundraising domain expanded its horizons, shining a spotlight on buyout and growth capital funds. Major sectors driving PE investments included IT, healthcare, and financial services. These sectors collectively accounted for 71% of the total invested capital, solidifying their significance in shaping the investment landscape.
Investment momentum is likely to continue in 2023, led by available dry powder and heightened interest in carve-out deals, as PE firms seek to acquire business segments within portfolio companies with the aim of unlocking their latent potential.
This edition of the Global Private Equity Factbook offers insights on global PE investment activity, features key sectors targeted, and provides an outlook for the industry in the coming quarter.
- Global Private Equity Factbook – Q3 2022
Global PE dealmaking slowed down in Q3 2022, due to macroeconomic uncertainties, but reported the strongest nine months in the last five years, with capital investments growing at 21%. The PE deal activity is expected to remain subdued towards the end of the year.
- Global Private Equity Factbook – Q3 2023
In Q3 2023, private equity showed resilience by increasing capital investments despite a dip in deal volume. Although the industry foresees growth supported by the availability of dry powder, the potential influence of rising interest rates and accumulating debt could impede the pace of recovery.