Day: April 3, 2025

**Noom Partners with LillyDirect Pharmacy Provider to Expand Access to Weight Loss Drug Zepbound**

*April 2024 – In a strategic move to broaden access to weight management solutions, digital health company Noom has announced a partnership with LillyDirect, the direct-to-consumer pharmacy service from pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly. The collaboration aims to streamline access to Zepbound, Eli Lilly’s recently approved weight loss drug, for eligible Noom users.*

### A New Chapter in Digital Health and Weight Management

Noom, widely known for its psychology-based weight loss app, has been expanding its offerings into the clinical weight loss space. The company launched Noom Med in 2023, a telehealth platform that connects users with clinicians for personalized weight loss plans, including the potential prescription of anti-obesity medications.

The partnership with LillyDirect marks a significant step in Noom’s evolution from a behavioral health app to a comprehensive weight management platform. Through this collaboration, Noom Med users who are prescribed Zepbound will now have the option to fill their prescriptions directly through LillyDirect’s online pharmacy services, simplifying the process and improving medication adherence.

### What is Zepbound?

Zepbound (tirzepatide) is a once-weekly injectable medication developed by Eli Lilly. It was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in late 2023 for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight conditions and at least one weight-related health issue, such as hypertension or type 2 diabetes.

Zepbound works by mimicking two gut hormones—GLP-1 and GIP—that regulate appetite and insulin secretion. Clinical trials have shown that patients taking Zepbound can lose up to 20% of their body weight when combined with diet and exercise, making it one of the most effective weight loss drugs currently available.

### How the Partnership Works

Under the new partnership:

– **Noom Med users** who meet the clinical criteria for Zepbound and receive a prescription from a Noom-affiliated healthcare provider will be offered the option to have their medication fulfilled through LillyDirect.
– **LillyDirect** will handle the prescription processing, insurance coordination, and home delivery of Zepbound, offering a seamless experience for patients.
– **Integrated support** will be provided through Noom’s digital platform, including behavioral coaching, nutrition guidance, and progress tracking, to complement the pharmacological treatment.

This integrated approach is designed to address both the physiological and psychological aspects of weight loss, which experts say is key to long-term success.

### Expanding Access and Reducing Barriers

One of the primary goals of the partnership is to reduce barriers to accessing effective weight loss treatments. Despite the growing availability of anti-obesity medications, many patients face challenges such as high out-of-pocket costs, insurance hurdles, and logistical difficulties in obtaining prescriptions.

By leveraging LillyDirect’s pharmacy infrastructure and Noom’s digital health ecosystem, the partnership aims to:

– **Improve medication accessibility** for eligible users across the United States.
– **Enhance patient convenience** through home delivery and virtual care.
– **Support long-term adherence** by integrating medication with behavioral and lifestyle interventions.

### Industry Implications

The Noom-LillyDirect collaboration reflects a broader trend in healthcare toward integrated, patient-centered solutions that combine digital tools with pharmaceutical innovation. As more weight loss drugs enter the market and demand for obesity treatment grows, partnerships like this are likely to become increasingly common.

“This partnership is a significant milestone in our mission to make effective weight management more accessible,” said Geoff Cook, CEO of Noom. “By combining Noom’s behavioral science with Lilly’s pharmaceutical expertise, we’re creating a powerful ecosystem that supports users every step of the way.”

### Looking Ahead

As the obesity epidemic continues to affect millions of Americans, the need for scalable, effective, and accessible treatment options has never been greater. The Noom and LillyDirect partnership represents a promising model for how digital health platforms and pharmaceutical companies can work together to meet this challenge.

With Zepbound now more easily accessible to Noom users, the collaboration could pave the way for similar initiatives that blend medication, technology, and behavioral support to tackle one of the most pressing public health issues of our time.

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*Disclaimer: Zepbound is a prescription medication and is not suitable for everyone. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine if it is appropriate for their individual needs.*

**How to Make Onion Powder at Home: A Step-by-Step Guide**

Onion powder is a versatile and flavorful seasoning that adds depth to a wide range of dishes, from soups and stews to marinades and spice blends. While it’s readily available in stores, making onion powder at home is simple, cost-effective, and ensures a fresher, more potent product. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of making onion powder from scratch using fresh onions.

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### Why Make Onion Powder at Home?

Before diving into the process, here are a few reasons why homemade onion powder is worth the effort:

– **No Additives or Preservatives**: Store-bought versions may contain anti-caking agents or preservatives.
– **Customizable Flavor**: You can choose the type of onion (white, yellow, red, or sweet) to tailor the flavor.
– **Cost-Effective**: Making your own can save money, especially if you grow your own onions or buy in bulk.
– **Reduces Waste**: A great way to use up surplus onions before they spoil.

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### What You’ll Need

– Fresh onions (any variety)
– Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
– Dehydrator or oven
– Blender, spice grinder, or mortar and pestle
– Airtight container for storage

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### Step-by-Step Instructions

#### Step 1: Choose and Prepare the Onions

Start with firm, fresh onions. Peel the onions and remove any bruised or damaged layers. Rinse them under cool water and pat dry.

#### Step 2: Slice the Onions Thinly

Using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer, cut the onions into thin, even slices—about 1/8 inch thick. Uniform slices ensure even drying.

#### Step 3: Dehydrate the Onion Slices

You can use either a food dehydrator or a conventional oven:

**Using a Dehydrator:**
– Arrange the onion slices in a single layer on the dehydrator trays.
– Set the dehydrator to 125°F (52°C).
– Dry for 6–12 hours, or until the slices are completely brittle and snap easily.

**Using an Oven:**
– Preheat your oven to its lowest setting (usually around 150–170°F or 65–75°C).
– Place the onion slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack.
– Leave the oven door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape.
– Bake for 6–8 hours, checking periodically, until the onions are dry and crisp.

**Tip:** Proper dehydration is crucial. Any remaining moisture can cause mold during storage.

#### Step 4: Grind the Dried Onions

Once the onion slices are completely dry and cool, grind them into a fine powder using one of the following tools:

– **Spice Grinder or Coffee Grinder**: Fast and efficient.
– **Blender**: Use a high-speed blender for best results.
– **Mortar and Pestle**: Ideal for small batches or a rustic texture.

Pulse or grind until you achieve a fine, uniform powder.

#### Step 5: Store the Onion Powder

Transfer the onion powder to an airtight container, such as a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Store it in a cool, dark place away from moisture and sunlight.

**Shelf Life:** Homemade onion powder can last up to 6–12 months if stored properly. For best flavor, use within 6 months.

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### Tips for Success

– **Use Dry Equipment**: Ensure all tools and containers are completely dry to prevent clumping or spoilage.
– **Label Your Jar**: Include the date you made the powder for easy tracking.
– **Optional Add-Ins**: Mix with garlic powder, paprika, or herbs to create custom seasoning blends.

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### Final Thoughts

Making onion powder at home is a rewarding process that enhances your cooking and reduces food waste. With just a few simple steps, you can create a flavorful, preservative-free seasoning that elevates your culinary creations. Give it a try and enjoy the rich, savory essence of homemade onion powder in your favorite dishes.

**Suki Launches AI-Powered Feature for Streamlining Prescription Order Staging**

*April 2024 – In a significant advancement for healthcare technology, Suki, a leading voice-enabled digital assistant for clinicians, has announced the launch of a new AI-powered feature designed to streamline the prescription order staging process. This innovation aims to reduce administrative burden, improve prescription accuracy, and enhance the overall efficiency of clinical workflows.*

### Revolutionizing Prescription Management with AI

Prescription order staging—the process of preparing and reviewing medication orders before final approval and transmission to pharmacies—has traditionally been a time-consuming and error-prone task for healthcare providers. With the increasing complexity of patient care and the growing demand for accurate medication management, clinicians often face challenges in maintaining efficiency while ensuring patient safety.

Suki’s new AI-powered feature directly addresses these challenges by leveraging natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning algorithms to assist clinicians in creating, reviewing, and staging prescription orders more efficiently. The tool integrates seamlessly with electronic health record (EHR) systems, enabling real-time data access and intelligent suggestions based on patient history, medication interactions, and clinical guidelines.

### Key Features and Benefits

The newly launched feature offers several capabilities aimed at transforming the prescription workflow:

– **Voice-Enabled Prescription Entry**: Clinicians can dictate prescription orders using natural language, allowing the AI to interpret and populate the necessary fields automatically.
– **Smart Suggestions and Alerts**: The system provides real-time recommendations for dosages, frequency, and potential drug interactions, helping to reduce errors and ensure compliance with best practices.
– **Automated Order Staging**: Once a prescription is dictated, the AI stages the order for review, flagging any inconsistencies or missing information before final approval.
– **Seamless EHR Integration**: The feature integrates with major EHR platforms, ensuring that prescription data is synchronized and accessible across the care continuum.
– **Time Savings and Reduced Burnout**: By automating routine tasks, the feature allows clinicians to spend more time with patients and less time on documentation, addressing a key contributor to physician burnout.

### Industry Response and Impact

Healthcare professionals and industry experts have welcomed the new feature as a timely innovation in the face of increasing administrative demands. Dr. Raj Patel, a family medicine physician and early adopter of Suki’s technology, commented, “The new prescription staging feature has significantly reduced the time I spend on medication orders. It’s intuitive, accurate, and helps me focus more on patient care.”

Suki’s CEO, Punit Soni, emphasized the company’s mission to empower clinicians through technology. “Our goal is to make healthcare technology invisible and supportive. With this new AI-powered feature, we’re taking a big step toward reducing the clerical burden on physicians and improving the quality of care.”

### Looking Ahead

The launch of the AI-powered prescription order staging feature represents a broader trend in healthcare toward intelligent automation and voice-enabled digital assistants. As Suki continues to expand its capabilities, the company plans to explore additional applications for AI in clinical documentation, patient engagement, and decision support.

With clinician burnout at an all-time high and healthcare systems under pressure to do more with less, innovations like Suki’s AI-powered tools are poised to play a critical role in shaping the future of medical practice.

**About Suki**

Founded in 2017, Suki is a leading provider of voice-enabled digital assistant technology for healthcare professionals. The company’s flagship product, Suki Assistant, uses advanced AI to help clinicians complete documentation and administrative tasks more efficiently. Suki is committed to improving the healthcare experience for both providers and patients through innovative, user-friendly technology solutions.

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*For more information on Suki and its latest features, visit [www.suki.ai](http://www.suki.ai).*

**Solace Raises $60 Million to Expand Its Health Advocacy Network**

*April 2024 – In a significant move aimed at transforming patient care and support, Solace, a leading health advocacy and navigation platform, has announced the successful closing of a $60 million Series C funding round. The investment will be used to expand its health advocacy network, enhance its technology infrastructure, and scale its services to reach more patients across the United States.*

### A Growing Need for Health Advocacy

Navigating the U.S. healthcare system can be a daunting experience for many patients and their families. From understanding insurance policies to coordinating care among multiple providers, the complexity often leads to stress, confusion, and suboptimal outcomes. Solace was founded to address these challenges by offering personalized health advocacy services that guide patients through every step of their healthcare journey.

Solace connects users with trained health advocates—professionals who assist with everything from scheduling appointments and interpreting medical bills to finding specialists and managing chronic conditions. The platform combines human expertise with advanced technology to deliver tailored support, ensuring patients receive timely, appropriate, and cost-effective care.

### Details of the Funding Round

The $60 million Series C funding round was led by Horizon Ventures, with participation from existing investors including Thrive Capital, General Catalyst, and Oak HC/FT. This latest round brings Solace’s total funding to over $120 million since its inception in 2018.

According to Solace CEO and co-founder Dr. Emily Chen, the new capital will be instrumental in expanding the company’s reach and impact. “This funding allows us to scale our operations, invest in cutting-edge AI tools, and grow our network of advocates to meet the increasing demand for personalized healthcare support,” said Dr. Chen.

### Strategic Expansion Plans

With the new funding, Solace plans to:

– **Expand its Advocate Network**: Solace aims to double its team of certified health advocates over the next 12 months. This includes hiring nurses, social workers, and insurance specialists to provide comprehensive support to a broader patient base.

– **Enhance Technology Infrastructure**: The company will invest in AI-driven tools to streamline case management, improve data analytics, and personalize care recommendations. These enhancements will help advocates work more efficiently and deliver better outcomes for patients.

– **Broaden Partnerships**: Solace is looking to deepen its collaborations with employers, health plans, and provider networks. By integrating its services into employee benefits packages and care coordination programs, the company hopes to make health advocacy more accessible to millions of Americans.

– **Expand Geographic Reach**: While currently serving patients in 30 states, Solace plans to achieve nationwide coverage by the end of 2025. This includes launching services in rural and underserved communities where healthcare navigation support is often lacking.

### Industry Impact and Future Outlook

The health advocacy sector has seen rapid growth in recent years, driven by rising healthcare costs, increasing patient complexity, and a greater emphasis on value-based care. Solace’s approach—blending compassionate human support with smart technology—positions it as a leader in this evolving landscape.

Industry analysts view the Series C funding as a strong vote of confidence in Solace’s model and mission. “Solace is addressing a critical gap in the healthcare system,” said Lisa Morgan, a healthcare analyst at Forrester Research. “Their ability to simplify the patient experience while improving outcomes makes them a key player in the future of care delivery.”

As Solace continues to grow, the company remains committed to its founding mission: empowering patients with the knowledge, tools, and support they need to make informed healthcare decisions. With fresh capital and ambitious expansion plans, Solace is poised to redefine how Americans experience and engage with healthcare.

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*About Solace:*
Founded in 2018, Solace is a digital health company that provides personalized health advocacy and navigation services. Through a combination of expert human support and advanced technology, Solace helps individuals and families navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, improving outcomes and reducing costs.

**British Columbia Researchers Awarded $49 Million for Genomics Research Projects**

*Vancouver, BC –* In a significant boost to Canada’s life sciences sector, researchers in British Columbia have been awarded $49 million in funding to advance cutting-edge genomics research. The investment, announced by Genome Canada in partnership with Genome BC and other regional and federal partners, will support a range of innovative projects aimed at addressing pressing challenges in health, agriculture, climate change, and natural resource management.

### A Strategic Investment in Genomic Innovation

The funding is part of Genome Canada’s Genomics Applications Partnership Program (GAPP) and other national initiatives designed to translate genomic discoveries into real-world applications. The $49 million investment includes contributions from both public and private sector partners, reflecting a collaborative approach to scientific innovation.

Dr. Pascal Spothelfer, President and CEO of Genome BC, emphasized the importance of this funding. “This investment underscores the critical role genomics plays in solving complex problems across sectors,” he said. “From improving patient outcomes in healthcare to enhancing the sustainability of our natural resources, genomics is at the forefront of innovation.”

### Diverse Research Projects Across Key Sectors

The funded projects span a variety of disciplines and industries, showcasing the versatility of genomic technologies. Some of the key initiatives include:

– **Personalized Medicine and Health Care:** Several projects aim to develop precision medicine tools to improve the diagnosis and treatment of diseases such as cancer, rare genetic disorders, and infectious diseases. These initiatives will harness genomic data to tailor treatments to individual patients, improving outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.

– **Agriculture and Food Security:** Researchers will explore genomic solutions to enhance crop resilience, improve livestock health, and reduce the environmental impact of farming. For example, one project focuses on using genomics to breed disease-resistant salmon, a key industry in BC’s aquaculture sector.

– **Climate Change and Environmental Stewardship:** Funding will support studies on how genomics can be used to monitor biodiversity, protect endangered species, and manage ecosystems more effectively in the face of climate change.

– **Forestry and Natural Resources:** Genomic tools will be applied to improve forest management practices, including identifying tree species that are more resilient to pests and changing climate conditions.

### Collaboration and Economic Impact

The projects involve partnerships between academic institutions, industry stakeholders, and government agencies. This collaborative model is designed to accelerate the commercialization of genomic technologies and ensure that research findings lead to tangible societal benefits.

According to Genome BC, the investment is expected to generate significant economic returns by creating high-quality jobs, attracting international talent, and fostering innovation-driven growth in the province.

### Looking Ahead

British Columbia has long been recognized as a leader in genomics research, with world-class institutions such as the University of British Columbia, BC Cancer, and the Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre driving scientific discovery. This latest round of funding reaffirms the province’s position at the forefront of genomic innovation.

As the funded projects progress, researchers and policymakers alike are optimistic that the outcomes will not only advance scientific knowledge but also contribute to a healthier, more sustainable, and economically vibrant future for British Columbia and beyond.

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*For more information on the funded projects and the role of genomics in Canada’s innovation ecosystem, visit Genome BC’s official website.*

# Cover Unveiling for the Skinnytaste High Protein Cookbook: A Resource for Nutritious, Protein-Rich Recipes

The food scene is abuzz with anticipation as Skinnytaste, the cherished brand recognized for its wholesome and appetizing recipes, reveals the cover of its newest work: the **Skinnytaste High Protein Cookbook**. This eagerly awaited cookbook is poised to revolutionize the meals of health-minded individuals and those seeking to add more protein to their diets without compromising taste or satisfaction.

## A Fresh Approach to Healthful Eating

The Skinnytaste brand, founded by Gina Homolka, has built a dedicated following due to its promise of crafting recipes that are not only healthy but also simple to make. As high-protein diets gain traction and awareness of protein’s significance in a balanced lifestyle increases, the Skinnytaste High Protein Cookbook arrives at an ideal moment to cater to the demands of contemporary home cooks.

### What This Cookbook Has to Offer

The Skinnytaste High Protein Cookbook serves as a thorough resource for readers eager to whip up protein-rich meals that are both delicious and nourishing. Here’s a glimpse of what this thrilling new release entails:

#### 1. **Varied Recipe Collection**

The cookbook boasts a diverse assortment of recipes accommodating a range of dietary preferences, including vegetarian, gluten-free, and low-carb selections. From filling breakfasts to satisfying dinners and even snacks, readers will discover a wealth of options that facilitate the integration of protein into every meal.

#### 2. **Detailed Nutritional Insights**

Each recipe provides comprehensive nutritional data, enabling readers to monitor their protein consumption and make informed decisions regarding their meals. This clarity is a hallmark of the Skinnytaste brand, ensuring that health-focused individuals can relish their culinary creations without worry.

#### 3. **Simple, Step-by-Step Instructions**

Gina Homolka’s friendly writing style is evident throughout the cookbook, featuring straightforward, step-by-step guidance that makes cooking approachable for everyone, no matter their expertise level. Whether you are an experienced cook or just starting out, you’ll find the recipes easy to navigate and pleasurable to create.

#### 4. **Stunning Visuals**

The Skinnytaste High Protein Cookbook is richly illustrated with gorgeous photography that highlights the vibrant colors and textures of each dish. These appealing visuals not only motivate readers but also help them envision the final outcome, encouraging experimentation with new recipes.

#### 5. **Useful Tips and Strategies**

Beyond the recipes, the cookbook offers valuable tips and strategies for optimizing protein intake, meal preparation, and ingredient substitutions. This extra layer of guidance empowers readers to adapt recipes to their personal preferences and dietary requirements.

## The Role of Protein in Our Diets

Protein is a vital macronutrient that is essential for tissue building and repair, enzyme and hormone production, and overall wellness. As more individuals recognize the advantages of a high-protein diet, the demand for tasty and accessible recipes has skyrocketed. The Skinnytaste High Protein Cookbook seeks to satisfy this need by presenting numerous flavorful choices that simplify the enjoyment of protein’s benefits.

## A Supportive Community

A notable aspect of the Skinnytaste brand is its dynamic community of followers who share their cooking experiences, insights, and modifications on social platforms. The launch of the High Protein Cookbook is anticipated to further solidify this community, with readers showcasing their culinary endeavors and motivating one another to adopt a healthier way of living.

## In Summary

The cover unveiling of the Skinnytaste High Protein Cookbook represents an exhilarating achievement for Gina Homolka and her committed team. With its emphasis on healthful, protein-rich recipes, this cookbook is destined to be an indispensable tool for anyone aiming to elevate their cooking skills while focusing on their wellness. As the release date draws near, Skinnytaste enthusiasts can eagerly anticipate a wealth of delicious, nutritious meals that honor the benefits of protein.

Stay tuned for the official release date and get ready to embark on a flavorful path toward a healthier, protein-enriched lifestyle with the Skinnytaste High Protein Cookbook!