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A White House deal and a bidding war
The Trump administration is on the verge of finalizing deals with Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk to reduce the prices of their weight loss drugs. Sources familiar with the negotiations revealed that the agreement is expected to include Medicare coverage for these drugs, a first-time offering. The companies have been in talks for weeks, with one lobbyist stating that a deal is imminent. Learn more about the latest developments from a team of STAT reporters.
Meanwhile, a bidding war between Pfizer and Novo over the obesity startup Metsera has intensified. After Pfizer initially announced its acquisition of Metsera, Novo surprised everyone by outbidding Pfizer. Both companies have increased their offers, with Novo’s bid valuing Metsera up to $10 billion. For a detailed update on this ongoing battle, read Elaine Chen’s report on the current status of the negotiations.
Children’s hospital lobby is broadening its scope
The Children’s Hospital Association, representing over 200 hospitals and investing heavily in lobbying efforts, unveiled a new messaging strategy. The organization will now focus on promoting the overall health of American children and underscoring the significance of pediatric health in the nation. This shift comes amidst increased scrutiny of health institutions, including children’s hospitals, by the current administration. However, according to CEO Matthew Cook, these changes were in the works prior to the election.
Expect to see a more assertive CHA moving forward, as Cook emphasized in his conversation with STAT’s Daniel Payne. Explore how this new approach aligns with the Make America Healthy Again movement and where the organization stands in response to governmental challenges.
It’s all in your head
Test your knowledge with this week’s mini crossword puzzle on STAT. Need a hint? We’ve covered this topic extensively over the years, with numerous stories published on the subject. Challenge yourself with the puzzle and see if you can crack the clues.
Why doctors might ‘fake’ CPR
Explore the concept of the “slow code” in the latest installment of STAT’s STATus Report video series. This practice involves doctors performing a subdued CPR attempt to minimize suffering for patients with poor survival chances, while also avoiding conflicts with grieving families. Watch the video to delve deeper into this ethical dilemma, as explained by the experts. Real-life CPR differs significantly from its portrayal in media, often involving intense and painful procedures that can result in physical injuries. Gain insights into this lesser-known practice and its implications for patient care.
The long-term risks of spinal injuries
A recent study published in JAMA Network Open highlights the heightened long-term health risks faced by healthy individuals who experience traumatic spinal injuries. Researchers analyzed data spanning nearly three decades from two hospital systems, comparing over 2,700 individuals with spinal injuries to a control group. The study revealed a greater likelihood of developing chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and neurological or psychiatric disorders post-injury. Additionally, individuals with multiple chronic conditions faced a higher risk of mortality. These findings underscore the need for further research on the long-term consequences of spinal injuries and their impact on overall health.
What we’re reading
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Worsening listeria outbreak linked to pasta products claims 6 lives and hospitalizes 25, NPR
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Exploring the challenges of reviving drug manufacturing at a closed factory, New York Times
- First Opinion: Discussing the financialization of the global health industry, STAT
- Investigating the allocation of opioid settlement funds for law enforcement expenses, KFF Health News
- First Opinion: Examining the pitfalls of ‘peer-to-peer’ review in prior authorization processes, STAT
