HEALTHONLINEUS

**Texas Judge Overturns FDA Rule Regulating Lab-Developed Tests**

*April 2024 — In a significant legal development that could reshape the regulation of diagnostic testing in the United States, a federal judge in Texas has overturned a recent rule by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that sought to increase oversight of lab-developed tests (LDTs). The decision marks a major victory for clinical laboratories and a setback for the FDA’s efforts to expand its regulatory authority over these widely used diagnostic tools.*

### Background: What Are Lab-Developed Tests?

Lab-developed tests are diagnostic tests that are designed, manufactured, and used within a single laboratory. They are commonly used to detect diseases, monitor health conditions, and guide treatment decisions. Unlike commercial test kits that are sold to multiple labs or healthcare providers, LDTs are not distributed widely and are typically tailored to meet specific patient needs.

Historically, the FDA has exercised “enforcement discretion” over LDTs, meaning it has not actively regulated them, instead allowing the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to oversee their quality through the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA). However, as LDTs have become more complex and widely used—particularly in areas like genetic testing and cancer diagnostics—the FDA has expressed growing concern about their accuracy and reliability.

### The FDA’s Rule and Legal Challenge

In 2023, the FDA finalized a rule that would bring LDTs under its regulatory framework, requiring laboratories to submit their tests for premarket review, comply with manufacturing standards, and report adverse events. The agency argued that increased oversight was necessary to ensure patient safety and test accuracy, citing instances where faulty LDTs led to misdiagnoses or inappropriate treatments.

However, the rule was met with strong opposition from the clinical laboratory industry, academic medical centers, and some lawmakers. Critics argued that the FDA’s rule would impose burdensome requirements on labs, stifle innovation, and delay the availability of critical diagnostic tools.

The American Clinical Laboratory Association (ACLA) and several independent labs filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas, claiming that the FDA overstepped its statutory authority and that Congress had not granted the agency the power to regulate LDTs in this manner.

### The Court’s Ruling

On April 15, 2024, U.S. District Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk sided with the plaintiffs, ruling that the FDA lacked the legal authority to unilaterally impose new regulations on LDTs without explicit congressional approval. In his opinion, Judge Kacsmaryk wrote that while the FDA may have legitimate concerns about the safety and effectiveness of LDTs, it cannot bypass the legislative process to expand its jurisdiction.

“The FDA’s attempt to regulate lab-developed tests through administrative rulemaking exceeds the scope of its statutory authority,” the judge stated. “Such significant policy decisions must be made by Congress, not by unelected agency officials.”

The ruling effectively nullifies the FDA’s new rule and prevents the agency from enforcing it unless Congress passes legislation granting it the necessary authority.

### Implications for the Healthcare Industry

The decision has far-reaching implications for the regulation of diagnostic testing in the U.S. and reignites the long-standing debate over how best to ensure the safety and efficacy of LDTs.

**Supporters of the ruling** argue that it preserves the flexibility and innovation of clinical laboratories, particularly those affiliated with academic medical centers and research institutions. They contend that LDTs have played a crucial role in advancing personalized medicine and responding to public health emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

**Critics of the decision**, including some patient advocacy groups and public health experts, warn that the lack of FDA oversight could leave patients vulnerable to inaccurate or misleading test results. They argue that a patchwork of state and federal regulations is insufficient to ensure consistent quality across all labs.

### What’s Next?

The Biden administration and the FDA are expected to appeal the ruling, potentially setting the stage for a protracted legal battle that could reach the U.S. Supreme Court. Meanwhile, lawmakers in Congress may revisit stalled legislation, such as the VALID Act (Verifying Accurate Leading-edge IVCT Development), which aims to create a unified regulatory framework for all in vitro clinical tests, including LDTs.

Until then, the regulatory status quo remains in place, with LDTs continuing to operate under CLIA oversight and without direct FDA regulation.

### Conclusion

The Texas court’s decision to overturn the FDA’s rule on lab-developed tests underscores the complex interplay between science, law, and public policy. As diagnostic technologies evolve and become more integral to modern healthcare, the question of how best to regulate them remains a pressing and contentious issue. Whether through judicial action, legislative reform, or regulatory compromise, the future of LDT oversight will have profound implications for patients, providers, and the broader healthcare system.

**Eargo and hearX Merge to Form New Tech-Driven Hearing Aid Company**

In a significant development within the hearing health industry, Eargo, a U.S.-based innovator in over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids, and hearX Group, a South African digital health company known for its mobile hearing screening technologies, have announced a strategic merger. The union of these two forward-thinking companies marks the creation of a new, tech-driven hearing aid powerhouse poised to revolutionize the global hearing care market.

### A Strategic Alliance

The merger brings together Eargo’s expertise in sleek, user-friendly hearing aid devices with hearX’s cutting-edge digital health solutions, including smartphone-based hearing screening and remote hearing care platforms. Both companies share a common mission: to make hearing care more accessible, affordable, and consumer-friendly through the use of advanced technology.

Eargo has made a name for itself in the U.S. market with its discreet, rechargeable hearing aids that are sold directly to consumers. The company’s products are known for their innovative design, comfort, and ease of use. Meanwhile, hearX has developed a suite of mobile and telehealth solutions, including hearTest and hearScreen, which are used in over 80 countries to provide hearing assessments and care in underserved communities.

### What the Merger Means

The merger is expected to create a vertically integrated company that can offer end-to-end hearing care solutions—from screening and diagnosis to device fitting and ongoing support—all powered by digital technology. This integration will allow the new entity to reach a broader audience, particularly in emerging markets and among populations with limited access to traditional hearing care services.

According to company executives, the merger will also accelerate innovation in the hearing health space. By combining Eargo’s product development capabilities with hearX’s software and telehealth platforms, the new company aims to develop smarter, more connected hearing aids that can be easily managed via smartphone apps and supported remotely by hearing care professionals.

### A Global Footprint

The new company will maintain a global footprint, with operational hubs in the United States and South Africa. This international presence will enable it to tap into diverse markets and leverage regional strengths. For instance, hearX’s experience in deploying scalable hearing solutions in low-resource settings complements Eargo’s consumer-focused approach in developed markets.

The combined company plans to expand its reach through both direct-to-consumer channels and partnerships with healthcare providers, insurers, and retail outlets. With the OTC hearing aid market continuing to grow—especially following the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s 2022 ruling allowing hearing aids to be sold without a prescription—the timing of the merger positions the new entity to capitalize on rising demand.

### Industry Impact

The merger of Eargo and hearX is expected to have a ripple effect across the hearing health industry. By setting a new standard for tech-enabled, consumer-centric hearing care, the combined company could prompt traditional hearing aid manufacturers and audiology providers to accelerate their own digital transformation efforts.

Moreover, the merger underscores the growing importance of accessibility and affordability in hearing care. With an estimated 1.5 billion people worldwide experiencing some degree of hearing loss—and many lacking access to proper diagnosis and treatment—the need for scalable, cost-effective solutions has never been greater.

### Looking Ahead

As the newly merged company begins operations, industry watchers will be keen to see how it leverages its combined strengths to innovate and expand. With a shared vision of democratizing hearing care through technology, Eargo and hearX are poised to reshape the landscape of hearing health—making it more inclusive, efficient, and user-friendly for millions around the world.

In the coming months, consumers and stakeholders can expect new product launches, expanded service offerings, and strategic initiatives aimed at bridging the global hearing care gap. For now, the merger stands as a bold step forward in the quest to make better hearing accessible to all.

**Unlearn Partners with Trace Neuroscience to Advance Digital Twin Technology in Brain Health**

*June 2024*

In a groundbreaking collaboration poised to redefine the landscape of neurological research and patient care, Unlearn, a leader in artificial intelligence-driven clinical trial optimization, has announced a strategic partnership with Trace Neuroscience, a cutting-edge neurotechnology company. The alliance aims to accelerate the development and application of digital twin technology in brain health, with the goal of improving diagnostics, monitoring, and treatment outcomes for neurological disorders.

### What Are Digital Twins in Healthcare?

Digital twins are virtual replicas of physical systems—in this case, human brains—that simulate biological processes in real time. In healthcare, digital twins can be used to model disease progression, predict treatment responses, and personalize medical interventions. By integrating patient-specific data, these models offer a dynamic and individualized representation of a person’s health status.

In the context of brain health, digital twins can be particularly transformative. Neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and depression are complex and often progress unpredictably. Digital twin models can help researchers and clinicians better understand these diseases, identify biomarkers, and tailor therapies to individual patients.

### The Power of the Partnership

Unlearn has pioneered the use of digital twins in clinical trials through its proprietary TwinRCT™ platform, which generates synthetic control arms using historical patient data and machine learning. This approach reduces the need for placebo groups and accelerates the pace of clinical research.

Trace Neuroscience, on the other hand, brings deep expertise in neuroimaging, electrophysiology, and cognitive assessment. The company has developed advanced tools for capturing high-resolution brain activity data, which are essential for building accurate and responsive digital twin models.

By joining forces, Unlearn and Trace Neuroscience aim to create a new generation of digital twins that are not only more precise but also capable of real-time adaptation. These models will leverage Trace’s rich neurobiological datasets and Unlearn’s AI-driven simulation engines to map individual brain trajectories and predict disease outcomes with unprecedented accuracy.

### Key Objectives of the Collaboration

1. **Enhanced Clinical Trial Design**: The partnership will integrate Trace’s neurobiological data into Unlearn’s TwinRCT™ platform, enabling more robust and representative synthetic control groups for neurological trials. This could significantly reduce trial durations and improve statistical power.

2. **Personalized Brain Health Monitoring**: The digital twins developed through this collaboration will allow clinicians to monitor patients’ brain health over time, detect early signs of cognitive decline, and adjust treatments proactively.

3. **Accelerated Drug Development**: By simulating how patients with different neurological profiles respond to new therapies, the digital twins can help pharmaceutical companies identify promising drug candidates and optimize dosing strategies.

4. **Ethical and Inclusive Research**: The companies are committed to ensuring that their models are trained on diverse datasets to avoid biases and ensure equitable healthcare outcomes across populations.

### Expert Perspectives

Dr. Charles Fisher, CEO and founder of Unlearn, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “Our mission has always been to bring AI into the clinical trial process in a way that benefits patients. By collaborating with Trace Neuroscience, we’re taking a major step forward in applying digital twin technology to one of the most complex and critical areas of medicine—brain health.”

Dr. Maya Lin, Chief Scientific Officer at Trace Neuroscience, added: “Understanding the brain requires both high-fidelity data and sophisticated modeling. This partnership allows us to combine our strengths and create tools that could revolutionize how we diagnose and treat neurological diseases.”

### Looking Ahead

The Unlearn-Trace Neuroscience partnership marks a significant milestone in the evolution of digital health technologies. As the collaboration unfolds, the companies plan to publish joint research findings, engage with regulatory bodies, and expand their platform to include a broader range of neurological conditions.

With the global burden of neurological disorders rising and the demand for personalized medicine growing, the integration of digital twin technology into brain health offers a promising path forward. This partnership not only exemplifies the power of interdisciplinary collaboration but also signals a new era in how we understand and care for the human brain.

—

*For more information about Unlearn and Trace Neuroscience, visit their official websites or follow their updates on LinkedIn and Twitter.*

**Child Mind Institute Introduces Mental Health Journaling App Designed for Teenagers**

*Empowering Teens to Take Control of Their Mental Health Through Daily Journaling and Evidence-Based Tools*

In a significant step toward addressing the growing mental health needs of adolescents, the Child Mind Institute has launched a new digital tool: a mental health journaling app specifically designed for teenagers. The app, named *MindTrack*, aims to provide young people with a safe, accessible, and engaging platform to explore their emotions, track their mental well-being, and build healthy coping strategies.

### Addressing a Growing Need

According to recent studies, rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges among teenagers have risen sharply in recent years, exacerbated by factors such as academic pressure, social media influence, and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Child Mind Institute, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming the lives of children and families struggling with mental health and learning disorders, developed *MindTrack* in response to this urgent public health concern.

“Teenagers today face unprecedented stressors, and many lack the tools or support systems to manage their mental health effectively,” said Dr. Harold S. Koplewicz, President of the Child Mind Institute. “With *MindTrack*, we’re giving teens a private, evidence-based space to reflect, express themselves, and learn skills that can improve their emotional well-being.”

### Features of the App

*MindTrack* combines the therapeutic benefits of journaling with guidance from clinical psychologists and child development experts. Key features include:

– **Daily Mood Check-Ins**: Teens can log their emotions using a simple, intuitive interface that helps them recognize patterns over time.
– **Guided Journaling Prompts**: Curated prompts encourage self-reflection on topics such as stress, relationships, self-esteem, and goal setting.
– **Mental Health Education**: The app includes bite-sized lessons on topics like anxiety, depression, mindfulness, and emotional regulation.
– **Coping Tools**: Users can access breathing exercises, grounding techniques, and other evidence-based strategies to manage difficult emotions.
– **Privacy and Security**: Designed with adolescent privacy in mind, the app does not share user data and includes parental guidance resources to foster healthy communication.

### Developed with Teens in Mind

To ensure the app resonates with its target audience, the Child Mind Institute involved teenagers in the development process. Focus groups and beta testing helped shape the app’s design, tone, and content.

“We wanted to make sure *MindTrack* felt authentic and useful to teens,” said Dr. Stephanie Lee, a clinical psychologist at the Institute. “Their feedback was invaluable in creating an app that’s not only clinically sound but also engaging and relatable.”

### Encouraging Early Intervention

Mental health professionals emphasize the importance of early intervention in preventing more serious issues later in life. By encouraging teens to regularly reflect on their thoughts and feelings, *MindTrack* helps normalize conversations around mental health and empowers young users to seek help when needed.

“Journaling can be a powerful tool for self-awareness and emotional growth,” said Dr. Lee. “By making it accessible through a smartphone app, we’re meeting teens where they are and providing them with a proactive way to care for their mental health.”

### Available Now

*MindTrack* is now available for free download on iOS and Android devices. The Child Mind Institute hopes the app will be adopted by schools, parents, and mental health professionals as a complementary tool in supporting adolescent mental health.

For more information or to download the app, visit [www.childmind.org/mindtrack](https://www.childmind.org/mindtrack).

—

**About the Child Mind Institute**

The Child Mind Institute is an independent, national nonprofit dedicated to transforming the lives of children and families struggling with mental health and learning disorders. With a team of leading clinicians and researchers, the Institute offers evidence-based care, conducts groundbreaking research, and provides free educational resources to families and professionals around the world.

**Knownwell Partners with LillyDirect to Enhance Access to Metabolic Care Services**

*April 2024 – In a significant move aimed at improving access to high-quality metabolic care, Knownwell, a leading provider of inclusive primary and metabolic healthcare services, has announced a strategic partnership with LillyDirect, Eli Lilly and Company’s direct-to-patient platform. This collaboration is poised to transform how patients manage chronic metabolic conditions such as obesity and type 2 diabetes by integrating innovative care delivery with streamlined access to medications and support.*

### Expanding Access to Comprehensive Metabolic Care

Knownwell is recognized for its patient-centered approach to healthcare, offering both primary care and specialized metabolic services in a stigma-free environment. The organization emphasizes inclusivity, particularly for individuals living with obesity, who often face barriers to receiving compassionate and effective care. By partnering with LillyDirect, Knownwell aims to extend its reach and simplify the patient journey from diagnosis to treatment.

LillyDirect, launched by pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly, is a digital health platform designed to connect patients with healthcare providers, telehealth services, and direct delivery of medications. The platform supports patients managing chronic conditions by offering a seamless experience that includes virtual consultations, prescription fulfillment, and ongoing support.

### Bridging the Gap Between Diagnosis and Treatment

The collaboration between Knownwell and LillyDirect addresses a critical gap in the healthcare system: timely and equitable access to metabolic care. Through this partnership, patients using LillyDirect will be able to connect with Knownwell’s network of clinicians for virtual metabolic health consultations. These services include evaluation, diagnosis, and personalized treatment plans for conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and related metabolic disorders.

Patients will benefit from:

– **Virtual access to specialized clinicians** trained in metabolic health and weight management.
– **Personalized care plans** that integrate lifestyle, behavioral, and pharmacological interventions.
– **Streamlined prescription services** through LillyDirect’s pharmacy partners, ensuring timely access to medications such as GLP-1 receptor agonists.
– **Ongoing support and follow-up care** to monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed.

### Addressing Stigma and Promoting Health Equity

One of the core values of Knownwell is the commitment to reducing stigma in healthcare, particularly for individuals with obesity—a condition that is often misunderstood and under-treated. The partnership with LillyDirect aligns with this mission by making it easier for patients to seek care without fear of judgment or discrimination.

“Too often, people living with obesity face stigma that prevents them from accessing the care they need,” said Brooke Boyarsky, CEO and co-founder of Knownwell. “Our partnership with LillyDirect allows us to reach more patients with compassionate, evidence-based care that meets them where they are—literally and figuratively.”

### A Step Forward in Digital Health Innovation

This collaboration reflects a broader trend in healthcare toward digital innovation and patient empowerment. By leveraging telehealth and direct-to-consumer platforms, Knownwell and LillyDirect are helping to redefine how chronic conditions are managed in the 21st century.

“LillyDirect was created to simplify the healthcare experience for people living with chronic conditions,” said Frank Cunningham, President of Lilly USA. “Our partnership with Knownwell enhances our ability to connect patients with trusted care providers and ensure they receive the treatment and support they need to improve their health outcomes.”

### Looking Ahead

As the prevalence of metabolic conditions continues to rise globally, partnerships like the one between Knownwell and LillyDirect represent a promising model for delivering accessible, high-quality care. By combining clinical expertise with digital convenience, the two organizations are helping to close care gaps and empower patients to take control of their health.

For more information about Knownwell’s services or to access care through LillyDirect, patients can visit [www.knownwellhealth.com](https://www.knownwellhealth.com) or [www.lillydirect.com](https://www.lillydirect.com).

—

*Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Patients should consult with a licensed healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.*

**Elon Musk Announces Neuralink to Begin First Human Trials of Blindsight Implant in 2024**

*By [Your Name], [Date]*

In a groundbreaking announcement that could redefine the future of neuroscience and human-machine interfaces, Elon Musk revealed that Neuralink, his neurotechnology company, is set to begin its first human trials of a revolutionary “blindsight” implant in 2024. The news marks a major milestone in Neuralink’s ambitious mission to merge the human brain with advanced computing systems, and it signals a potential leap forward in restoring vision to the visually impaired.

### What Is the Blindsight Implant?

The “blindsight” implant is a brain-computer interface (BCI) designed to restore a form of vision to individuals who are blind or severely visually impaired. Unlike traditional visual prosthetics that rely on functioning eyes or optic nerves, Neuralink’s device bypasses the damaged visual pathways and directly stimulates the visual cortex—the part of the brain responsible for processing visual information.

According to Neuralink, the implant will use a high-density array of electrodes to transmit visual data from an external camera directly into the brain. This could allow users to perceive shapes, movement, and possibly even detailed images through artificial means, effectively creating a new sensory input channel.

### A Milestone in Neural Engineering

Elon Musk made the announcement during a Neuralink update event streamed live on social media platforms. “We’re excited to share that we’ve received FDA approval to begin human trials of our first vision-restoring implant,” Musk said. “This is a major step toward helping people who have lost their sight regain a sense of the visual world.”

The blindsight implant builds upon Neuralink’s previous work in developing brain implants for motor and sensory restoration. In 2023, the company received FDA clearance for its first human trials involving quadriplegic patients, aiming to enable them to control digital devices with their thoughts.

### How It Works

The blindsight system comprises three main components:

1. **Neural Implant:** A coin-sized device surgically implanted in the skull, with ultra-thin threads inserted into the visual cortex.
2. **External Camera System:** A wearable camera, possibly mounted on glasses, that captures visual data in real time.
3. **Processing Unit:** A computer that processes the visual input and translates it into neural signals that the brain can interpret.

The implant’s electrodes stimulate specific neurons in the visual cortex, mimicking the patterns that would occur naturally in response to visual stimuli. Over time, the brain is expected to adapt to these signals, allowing the user to interpret them as visual information.

### Who Will Be Eligible for the Trials?

Neuralink stated that the initial trials will focus on individuals who are completely blind due to damage to the eyes or optic nerves but who still have an intact visual cortex. The company is currently recruiting participants and working closely with medical institutions to identify suitable candidates.

The trials will assess not only the safety and stability of the implant but also its effectiveness in restoring functional vision. Participants will undergo extensive monitoring and training to adapt to the new sensory input.

### Ethical and Regulatory Considerations

The announcement has sparked both excitement and caution in the scientific and medical communities. While the potential benefits are enormous, experts emphasize the importance of rigorous testing and ethical oversight.

Dr. Lisa Martinez, a neuroethics researcher at Stanford University, commented: “This technology has the potential to transform lives, but we must proceed carefully. Long-term safety, informed consent, and equitable access are all critical issues that need to be addressed.”

Neuralink has pledged transparency throughout the trial process and has established an independent ethics board to oversee the research.

### The Road Ahead

If successful, the blindsight implant could pave the way for a new generation of neuroprosthetics that restore or even enhance human senses. Musk has previously stated that Neuralink’s ultimate goal is to create a symbiotic relationship between humans and artificial intelligence, and the blindsight project represents a tangible step in that direction.

While challenges remain, including ensuring the long-term biocompatibility of the implant and refining the resolution of the visual input, the 2024 human trials could mark the beginning of a new era in neuroscience and assistive technology.

### Conclusion

Elon Musk’s announcement of Neuralink’s upcoming human trials for the blindsight implant has captured global attention and reignited discussions about the future of human augmentation. As the world watches closely, the success of this endeavor could offer hope to millions living with blindness and open new frontiers in our understanding of the brain and its capabilities.

**Stay tuned for updates on this historic development as Neuralink begins its journey into restoring sight through science and innovation.**

**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.

—

*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.

—

### 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.

—

### 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

—

### 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.

—

### 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.

—

### 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.

—

*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.

—

*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.