Teladongo has arrived
In an explosive $18.5B megadeal, Teladoc announced its merger with Livongo to become the “greatest virtual care platform in the market.” This announcement is merely the starter pistol for a virtual care platforms race—we anticipate a chain reaction of M&A among telemedicine companies looking to build more comprehensive healthcare solutions. There’s more on the exit horizon—GoodRx filed for an IPO and PE firm Blackstone acquired a majority share of Ancestry for $4.7B.
Calling all managers and above at US digital health startups—please take our survey to help us map the diversity landscape among digital health leaders.
We hope to see you at Rock Health Summit, where we’ll hear from speakers including Salesforce CMO Ashwini Zenooz, HHS Deputy Secretary Eric Hargan, and ConsejoSano CEO Abner Mason. Check out the agenda and get your tickets before prices go up on Wednesday 8/12.
Headlines
Apple-Google COVID-19 Tracing App Goes Live
Using Bluetooth to track new cases and limit exposures MobiHealthNews | (Tweet)
JAMA Studies Show Seniors Face Huge Barriers To Virtual Care
The rise of telemedicine highlights the digital divide STAT | (Tweet)
Why Everyone Should Take A Digital Cognitive Test
A more complete profile of cognitive strength Fast Company | (Tweet)
Headspace’s Popularity Outweighs Its Scientific Grounding
The scientific rigor doesn’t yet line up with the hype STAT | (Tweet)
What A Doctor Learns From Watching You On Video Chat
The unexpected virtues and hidden pitfalls of homebound care The Atlantic | (Tweet)
Apple And UCLA Kick Off A Three-Year Depression Study
How sleep, activity, and heart rate affect depression CNBC | (Tweet)
Unprecedented Funding In An Unprecedented Time
KPV, Bessemer, and Fenwick discuss the future of digital health Rock Health Podcast | (Tweet)