INSIGHTS
May 5, 2025

Neural networking

Neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, dementia) continue to pose significant challenges, from rising prevalence and costs to profound strain on patients and caregivers. Digital health companies are taking different approaches to alleviate that burden. Cognito Therapeutics raised $196M for its neurostimulation headphone tech designed to treat Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and MS. On the research front, Verily secured a fresh $15M grant to deepen its Parkinson’s disease data set with real-world insights from longitudinal wearable and imaging data.

Meanwhile, startups are bringing purpose-built virtual care to patients with neurodegenerative conditions. LillyDirect integrated Rock Health portfolio company Synapticure onto its direct-to-consumer platform, connecting patients to specialized neuro care providers and wraparound services. Independence Blue Cross teamed up with Isaac Health to bring virtual dementia care to members. From innovative tech and research to care collaborations that improve access, digital health is ushering in a new era of brain health—we’ll keep a close eye, so stay tuned.

For over a decade, Rock Health’s Top 50 in Digital Health awards have celebrated digital health leaders advancing transformative technologies and improving healthcare. This year, we honor individuals in the following categories: Builders, Equity Advocates, Frontline Heroes, Icons, Luminaries, Policy Champions, Public Health Leaders, Storytellers, Supporters, and System Disruptors. Please join us in congratulating the Top 50 in Digital Health!

Headlines

Novo Partners With Telehealth Companies In Move To Expand Wegovy Market
Ro, Hims, and LifeMD to integrate NovoCare; meanwhile, Wegovy lands spot on CVS formulary BioPharma Dive

Teladoc Acquires UpLift For $30M, Doubling Down On Virtual Mental Health
UpLift shows potential in health plan arrangements given D2C BetterHelp struggles Fierce Healthcare

Woebot Health Is Shutting Down Its App
Mental health chatbot, once designed as a prescription digital therapeutic, set to retire MobiHealthNews

LifeMD Enters Women’s Health Market Through Optimal Human Health MD Acquisition
New assets to boost virtual care offering for women, targeting menopause and osteoporosis HIT Consultant

23andMe Will Have Court-Appointed Overseer For Genetic Data In Bankruptcy
Ombudsman to ensure consumer genetic data protection while company searches for buyer Reuters

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