INSIGHTS
October 7, 2019

Alphabet’s newest healthcare hire

Earlier this year, Novartis CEO Vas Narasimhan reflected on the challenges of bringing tech to pharma: “there’s a lot of talk and very little in terms of actual delivery of impact.” Now, Novartis and Microsoft are partnering in pursuit of that very impact to use AI to accelerate drug discovery. Elsewhere in the health tech crossover, Alphabet hired former FDA head honcho Dr. Robert Califf to lead strategy for both Verily and Google Health.

We heard from Dr. Califf on the healthcare techlash at our recent Rock Health Summit. Didn’t make it in person? Watch the full videos of all the sessions here.

Nominate the Top 50 in Digital Health
Each year we recognize the digital health entrepreneurs, investors, reporters, and providers creating impactful change in healthcare. Nominations for 2019 are now open.

Headlines

From Concept To Conception: Our Investment In Natalist
Why we’re backing Rock Health founder Halle Tecco’s new venture Rock Health | (Tweet)

uBiome Is Shutting Down
The embattled microbiome startup’s story comes to an end Business Insider | (Tweet)

This AI Startup Wants To Take Better Pictures Of Your Heart
And 23andMe vet Andy Page is at the helm STAT | (Tweet)

Walmart’s Going To Measure Doctor Quality In Local Markets
All eyes will be on its data-driven “featured providers” program Forbes | (Tweet)

Does Telehealth Save Money? The Jury’s Still Out
Data show costs increase—or decrease, depending on the study Politico | (Tweet)

Doctors Limit What They Tell Patients About Their DNA Test
Should they? It’s a bit of a tricky answer The Wall Street Journal | (Tweet)

UPS Is Expanding Its Medical Drone Delivery Nationwide
It could be just a matter of time before other players join in Healthcare Dive | (Tweet)

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