DHL expands healthcare logistics footprint with flagship UK facility

DHL Supply Chain is developing a new 194,000 sq. ft. automated healthcare hub at Infinity Park Derby, creating a shared-user platform designed specifically for the life sciences sector.

The facility will support organisations across consumer health, pharmaceuticals, medical devices and animal health, serving as DHL’s flagship Life Sciences and Healthcare site in the UK and Ireland and the seventh facility within its specialist healthcare network.

More than a traditional warehouse, Infinity Park Derby is designed to help healthcare organisations transition away from fragmented logistics models toward standardised, scalable and resilient supply chain operations.

The development also represents a key milestone in DHL’s £550 million commitment to automation and infrastructure across the UK and Ireland, while contributing to DHL Group’s broader €2 billion investment in life sciences and healthcare by 2030.

Martin Willmor, CEO of DHL Supply Chain UK & Ireland, highlighted the changing demands facing healthcare supply chains.

“The UK health landscape is experiencing sustained, above-trend growth across pharma, medical devices and consumer health, driven by demand for advanced therapies and personalised medicine. Developing the new Infinity Park site ensures we can meet this accelerating demand with the specialist infrastructure needed to support growth.

By combining automation with multi-temperature flexibility, we are making market-leading technology accessible to organisations of all sizes, helping them scale without sacrificing quality, control or sustainability.”

Automation becomes a strategic enabler for healthcare supply chains

As healthcare supply chains face increasing complexity, automation is emerging as a critical capability for improving service levels, compliance and efficiency.

Infinity Park Derby has been designed around high-density automation technologies, including pallet shuttle systems capable of handling inbound processing, storage and order picking with minimal manual intervention. The site also has the capability to introduce Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) as operations evolve.

The facility will support both B2B and B2C fulfilment models, enabling healthcare companies to respond more effectively to changing patient needs and customer expectations.

By operating as a shared-user environment, the site gives organisations access to advanced logistics capabilities without the significant capital investment required to build dedicated infrastructure.

Multi-temperature capabilities support increasingly complex healthcare products

One of the defining features of the Derby facility is its ability to manage products across multiple temperature ranges.

The site will support ambient, chilled and frozen environments, allowing it to accommodate a broad range of healthcare products, from over-the-counter consumer health products to temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals and medical devices.

This flexibility is becoming increasingly important as the healthcare sector experiences sustained growth in advanced therapies and personalised medicine, both of which place greater demands on logistics providers.

According to DHL, the combination of regulatory-grade infrastructure, automation and shared-user operations is intended to improve speed to market, enhance predictability and reduce cost-to-serve without compromising compliance requirements.

Sustainability designed into healthcare logistics infrastructure

Alongside automation, sustainability has been embedded into the design of the facility.

Infinity Park Derby is targeting both a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating and EPC ‘A’ certification and has been designed using a net-zero approach to operate as a carbon-neutral facility.

The development incorporates electrification, energy-efficient automation and renewable energy integration, including on-site solar photovoltaic generation and the sourcing of renewable electricity.

The warehouse is also designed to maximise storage density, accommodating up to 40% more pallets within the same footprint compared with traditional facilities.

Combined with “dark-store” automation requiring minimal lighting and integrated EV charging infrastructure, the approach is intended to significantly reduce operational energy demand while supporting lower-carbon transportation.

Industry leaders highlight resilience and growth

Peter Kyle, Secretary of State for Business and Trade, said the investment demonstrates confidence in the UK’s position as a hub for life sciences innovation.

“This investment is a strong vote of confidence in the UK as a leading destination for life sciences and advanced logistics. Facilities like Infinity Park Derby show how we are creating the right conditions for businesses to invest, innovate and grow through our modern Industrial Strategy.

“By combining cutting-edge automation with high-quality jobs, DHL’s new site will strengthen our healthcare supply chains and support economic growth in the Midlands and across the UK.”

Nick Richardson, Infinity Park Derby LLP, said:

“We are delighted to see construction progressing at Plot B1 with DHL as our tenant. This development represents another key milestone for Infinity Park Derby, reinforcing its position as one of the East Midland’s premier locations for advanced logistics and distribution. The scheme’s strong sustainability credentials reflect our long-term commitment to delivering high-quality, future-proofed space for end occupiers.”

Kean Hird, Partner at Catalyst Capital, added:

“We are pleased to forward fund this high-quality logistics asset, pre-let to a globally recognised occupier in DHL. The development aligns with our investment strategy, focusing on best-in-class assets with strong ESG credentials and long-term income security.”

The post DHL’s Automated Healthcare Hub Signals the Future of UK Life Sciences Supply Chains appeared first on Healthcare Outlook.

GRANTING TIME AND HEADSPACE 

Step into a GP surgery on a typical Monday morning and the strain is apparent. With appointments that run through lunch, reception staff squeezing in one more “urgent” patient, and a backlog of prescriptions and test results sits in the electronic inbox.  

Behind the consultation room door, a clinician is trying to listen carefully, think clearly, and document accurately whilst navigating a clunky record system that was never built for the way general practice actually works. 

Technology should reverse that reality, rather than intensifying it. Any digital tool must pass a simple test: does it give clinicians time and headspace for safe care, or does it add more friction to an already stretched system? 

The most meaningful role for AI in healthcare is quiet: technology that handles the background work so clinicians can return to the core of medicine, connecting with patients, hearing their stories, and delivering high-quality care. 

PAST DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION: UNFIT FOR GENERAL PRACTICE 

Over the past decade, general practice has been pushed to breaking point. Demand and case complexity have risen; expectations have expanded; administrative work has skyrocketed.  

The average health professional now spends well over a day each week on tasks that never appear on any rota: repeat prescriptions, document processing, coding, and chasing results. 

Previous waves of digital transformation were supposed to help. Instead, many enterprise record systems were designed around managerial and financial requirements rather than the realities of a 10 or 15-minute consultation, leaving clinicians with slow, unintuitive workflows and drops in productivity despite the heavy investment. 

As days run on without natural breaks, cognitive performance understandably falls and burnout increases. Against that backdrop, scepticism towards another round of technology is justified. 

CHANGING THE DYNAMICS OF PATIENT CONSULTATION  

Into this environment comes a new generation of ambient clinical AI: an AI care partner that supports the whole clinical day. Documentation has been the proven starting point, including ambient voice technology (AVT).  

Instead of focusing on typing during or after the appointment, clinicians can focus on the patient whilst the technology listens in, assembles a structured draft note, and identifies tasks and follow‑up prompts based on the conversation. 

Recent evaluations of AVT in UK primary and urgent care have reported documentation time per consultation cut by roughly half, with paperwork completed outside contracted hours reduced by more than 60 percent and many clinicians describing a noticeable drop in documentation‑related stress and better work‑life balance. 

The impact goes beyond efficiency. Clinicians using these systems report greater psychological safety because they are no longer trying to memorise and later reconstruct every detail. The dynamic between clinician and patient shifts as it creates space for more direct eye contact, trust, and connection.  

Importantly, AVT has clear limits around clinical judgement, particularly when we think about situations where context carries more weight than language alone. For example, a familiar patient mentioning chest pain in passing may not mean the same as a new, unexplained symptom in a stranger, even if the words are identical. Decisions about nuanced management of patients remain firmly with the clinician. 

As these systems mature, the care partner role extends across the full clinical day: helping the clinician to prepare by synthesising fragmented patient history and highlighting priorities, bringing evidence and local guidelines into the conversation in real time at the point of care, and then coordinating what happens afterwards, from drafting referrals and tasks for the wider team to checking on treatment response and escalating when needed. 

SAFETY, DATA PROTECTION, AND CLINICAL RESPONSIBILITY  

Any AI system used in patient care must be built with safety and data protection embedded in it from the start. That means GDPR compliance and Data Protection Impact Assessments that set out what is collected, where it is hosted, and how it is processed.  

Consultation data should not be reused to train models, and organisations need control over retention and deletion so local governance and national standards are met. 

On safety, headline “hallucination rates” are not enough. Assurance requires precision monitoring, recall, and composite accuracy, backed by incident handling and independent audits so vendors are not marking their own homework. 

Throughout, clinical responsibility does not shift. AI tools or care partners are not clinicians, and so notes, diagnoses, and treatments will always remain the clinician’s role. Regulators, defence organisations and professional bodies will continue to look to the human professional when care is scrutinised, so provider organisations and integrated care systems must choose tools that are demonstrably safe and effective. 

THE FUNDING AND PROCUREMENT TEST  

AI software is often squeezed into rigid budgets that tend to lack flexibility for system-wide benefits such as reduced burnout, better retention, or lower locum spend, even though workforce sustainability is one of the system’s most urgent challenges.   

Integrated care systems are encouraged to act at scale, yet individual practices and departments still shoulder much of the contracting and compliance burden. Central frameworks, shared assurance routes, and “procure once for many” mechanisms can help safe technologies spread more quickly, aligning incentives with outcomes and staff well-being. 

If those structural pieces do not move, the most promising AI will get stuck in the pilot stage rather than becoming a part of everyday care.  

The most powerful future for AI in healthcare is not a talking algorithm in the corner of the room. It is invisible technology that quietly manages information and administration so that clinicians can concentrate on patients without distraction.  

When AI becomes the quietest presence in the consulting room, the human relationship at the heart of medicine is finally able to speak louder. 

The post Heidi : Moving AI in General Practice from Burden to Genuine Digital Relief appeared first on Healthcare Outlook.

A Key Strategic Market

Haleon is investing £175 million in India to expand oral health manufacturing capacity, strengthen rural healthcare access and accelerate distribution of preventive health products, as the company targets more than 300 million additional consumers in one of the world’s fastest-growing consumer health markets.

India’s growing focus on preventive healthcare and self-care is creating significant opportunities to address unmet health needs, particularly in rural communities where access to healthcare services remains limited.

Haleon has announced plans to invest approximately £175 million in a new oral health manufacturing facility in Madhya Pradesh, alongside an expanded rural distribution and health education programme designed to improve access to oral healthcare across underserved regions.

The investment forms part of Haleon’s broader ambition to reach one billion more consumers globally by 2030, with India identified as a key strategic growth market.

Strengthening Capacity to Meet Rising Healthcare Demand

The new manufacturing facility will increase Haleon’s local production capabilities for oral health brands including Sensodyne and parodontax, while also supporting supply to other Asian markets.

According to the company, strengthening in-house manufacturing and supply chain capabilities will improve resilience and enable faster responses to evolving healthcare needs.

India’s consumer health market is forecast to exceed £23 billion by 2030, driven by increasing awareness of preventive health and growing adoption of self-care solutions.

The facility is expected to open in early 2028, with production commencing the following year.

“India is a key strategic market for Haleon and an important driver of our long-term growth,” said Brian McNamara, CEO, Haleon.

“This investment strengthens our local manufacturing footprint and expands our reach in one of the world’s fastest-growing consumer health markets. By increasing access to our trusted brands and building our capabilities on the ground, we are well positioned to capture the significant opportunities ahead.”

Addressing Significant Oral Health Gaps in Rural Communities

Haleon’s investment comes as significant oral health challenges persist across rural India, where healthcare access remains constrained.

The company notes that rural areas account for approximately 65% of India’s population, spread across more than 650,000 villages. Access to dental services remains limited, with a single dentist often serving around 250,000 people in some rural regions.

Low utilisation of preventive dental care contributes to untreated oral health conditions, including tooth sensitivity and tooth decay.

To address these challenges, Haleon plans to expand distribution to more than three million retail outlets by 2030, while increasing availability of lower-cost oral healthcare products, including small-format Sensodyne packs designed to improve affordability.

Expanding Community-Based Health Outreach

Alongside product distribution, Haleon is increasing investment in community health engagement programmes aimed at improving oral health awareness and early intervention.

The company is doubling the number of frontline health teams operating in rural areas. Equipped with diagnostic tools, testing kits and product samples, these teams work directly with communities that may have limited access to traditional healthcare channels.

Haleon is also expanding its network of mobile oral health education units, which provide oral health awareness activities, gum health assessments and sensitivity checks within local communities.

These initiatives are designed to help identify oral health issues earlier while encouraging greater adoption of preventive care practices.

Workforce Expansion Supports Healthcare Access Strategy

Supporting the expansion is a significant investment in workforce development.

Haleon has recruited more than 500 additional sales and distribution employees over the past 12 months to strengthen market coverage and improve access to healthcare products in underserved areas.

The new manufacturing facility is expected to create up to 500 additional jobs while strengthening local technical and manufacturing capabilities in central India.

Healthcare Access at the Centre of Growth Strategy

Haleon says the combined manufacturing, distribution and community engagement investment reflects the growing role of preventive healthcare within emerging markets and the need for innovative approaches to reaching underserved populations.

“We aim to expand access to better everyday health for more than 300 million additional consumers in India. This will be key to achieving our broader ambition to reach one billion more consumers globally by 2030,” said McNamara.

The post Haleon Expands Rural Health Access in India with £175 Million Manufacturing and Distribution Investment appeared first on Healthcare Outlook.

AI ROLL-OUT ACROSS NHS ENGLAND 

NHS England is expanding its use of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies through a large-scale deployment of Microsoft 365 Copilot, providing access to more than 500,000 clinicians and support staff across the country. 

The initiative is intended to reduce administrative workloads, improve operational efficiency, and create more time for frontline patient care. Roll-out across NHS organisations is expected to be completed by October 2026. 

The agreement follows what has been described as the largest AI trial of its kind in global healthcare, involving over 30,000 NHS workers across 90 NHS organisations. Findings from the pilot indicated that AI-powered administrative support could save staff an average of 43 minutes per day, equivalent to around five working weeks annually per employee. 

NHS England anticipates that Microsoft 365 Copilot will be integrated into a wide range of healthcare functions, including clinical administration, ward operations, management processes, and support services. 

Each NHS Trust will receive a central allocation of licences based on organisational headcount, with most organisations initially receiving around 2,000 licences. 

REDUCING ADMINISTRATIVE PRESSURES 

The deployment aims to support NHS staff with a variety of day-to-day, time-consuming administrative responsibilities across healthcare services. 

Clinical teams are expected to use Copilot to assist with drafting letters and supporting registrar training activities. Ward clerks may utilise the technology for discharge processes, rota creation, bed management, and service data analysis. 

Medical secretaries are also expected to benefit from assistance with patient correspondence, meeting minutes, and template generation, whilst departments including human resources, finance, procurement, and management will be able to use the platform for reporting, organisational analysis, and briefing preparation. 

Health Innovation and Safety Minister, Preet Kaur Gill, said: “Technology should support our NHS staff, not slow them down. Every day, doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals spend valuable time on administrative tasks that take them away from patients. 

“By rolling out Microsoft Copilot across the NHS, we can reduce that burden, free up clinicians’ time and help staff focus on what they do best, caring for patients. 

SUPPORTING DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION  

Microsoft stated that the AI deployment forms part of a broader effort to support digital transformation across the healthcare sector and address operational pressures facing NHS organisations. 

Darren Hardman, CEO of Microsoft UK and Ireland, commented: “By rolling out Microsoft 365 Copilot at scale, NHS teams can cut through everyday admin and spend more time where it matters most. 

Microsoft 365 Copilot is designed to assist users with creating content, analysing information, and streamlining workflows across applications including Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Teams. 

NHS England believes the wider deployment could save millions of staff hours annually whilst helping healthcare workers focus more directly on patient outcomes and service delivery. 

The post NHS England Embraces AI With the Roll-out of Microsoft 365 Copilot appeared first on Healthcare Outlook.

TECH TITAN’S NEW FACILITY IN MUNICIPALITY

US multinational technology giant Google has begun construction on a new data centre in Horndal, a small locality in the Avesta Municipality, Sweden.

This new facility is designed for off-site heat recovery, which will help meet the growing demand for Google’s core services, such as Search, Cloud, Workspace, and YouTube. These services are used daily by individuals, businesses, and public-sector organisations in Sweden and around the world.

In addition, Google has announced a €5 million fund to support local community initiatives focused on education, sustainability, economic growth, and workforce development.

Moreover, the data centre will create 100 direct full-time jobs and generate thousands more through construction, suppliers, and local businesses.

Currently, Google is collaborating with nearly 60 Swedish suppliers for the construction of the new data centre.

According to projections, for each job created directly at a Google data centre in Sweden, an additional 2.3 jobs are supported in the broader national economy. These jobs can range from heating and ventilation repair to maintenance, engineering, and landscaping.

Overall, Google’s ongoing investment in technical infrastructure across Europe, including its data centres, significantly supports popular digital services that people and businesses rely on every day.

Furthermore, these advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies enable Europe to improve its economic competitiveness, productivity, and scientific progress, fostering thriving and sustainable societies.

EMPOWERING EDUCATION FOR THE DIGITAL ECONOMY

Google has announced a €5 million fund to support local projects aimed at upskilling the workforce, promoting sustainable impact programmes, and addressing community causes.

This initiative, therefore, reflects Google’s commitment to enhancing digital knowledge for individuals and businesses in Sweden. The company has already trained over 284,000 people in the country on digital and AI skills, including students, educators, small business owners, and developers.

This demonstrates its dedication to making digital skills accessible to all.

Recently, Google.org revealed that AI Sweden will lead an initiative to provide comprehensive AI training for 13,000 workers across Northern Europe. This programme aims to equip those most impacted by AI with the tools to navigate a rapidly evolving job market.

Furthermore, Google has been present in Sweden since 2004, with an office in Stockholm. Through its cloud platform and advertising network, the company has supported tens of thousands of Swedish businesses, publishers, nonprofits, creators, and developers.

Lastly, the new facility in Horndal is designed to meet the growing customer demand for cloud services in Sweden and worldwide.

A GREENER, CLEANER FUTURE

Google is committed to industry-leading energy efficiency and is dedicated to introducing new energy sources and technologies.

The company collaborates with partners to strengthen and modernise the electricity grid, ensuring that infrastructure expansion not only enhances the grid’s long-term resilience but also improves its overall capacity.

When Google builds data centres, it adds clean energy resources to the grid. This not only helps maintain energy affordability for households but also accelerates the development of energy infrastructure, leading to a more reliable, robust, and carbon-free energy system.

Since signing its first Swedish power purchase agreement (PPA) in 2013, Google has added over 700 megawatts of renewable energy through seven wind projects in the country.

These PPAs support Google’s goal of operating on 24/7 carbon-free energy (CFE) every hour, every day, on every grid where it operates.

Ultimately, this initiative contributes to Sweden’s aims for affordable, secure, and locally-sourced energy.

POWERING SUSTAINABILITY

Google adopts a data-driven strategy for making cooling decisions that emphasise the responsible use of natural resources both now and in the future.

As part of this approach, the data centre in Horndal will utilise air-cooling technology, which limits water consumption to sanitary and other domestic uses.

Moreover, the new facility in Horndal will be prepared for off-site heat recovery, providing heat at no cost to eligible partners, supporting local homes and businesses, and helping Sweden decarbonise its heat supply.

By capturing the heat generated from data centres, Google aims to promote energy conservation and contribute to the local energy transition.

Since 2013, Google has been at the forefront of developing heat recovery solutions. Initially, this began with on-site applications such as heating its own offices and technical spaces. The company incorporates heat recovery readiness into the design of all new data centres in Europe.

Notably, its first off-site data centre heat recovery project in Hamina, Finland, currently supplies sustainable heat to approximately 2,000 households.

Learn more about Google’s commitment to its data centre communities at datacenters.google

The post Google Breaks Ground on Swedish Data Centre appeared first on Healthcare Outlook.

WHY THE NEXT DECADE OF MEDTECH BELONGS TO INFRASTRUCTURE

For years, the MedTech industry has been defined by a cycle of incremental clinical improvement.

Success was measured by the “better mousetrap” – a slightly sharper scalpel, more flexible stent, or marginally more accurate sensor.

As we move into 2026, it is becoming clear that this era of standalone product excellence is no longer the primary driver of market value.

This fundamental shift isn’t accidental; it’s being driven by a powerful convergence of forces. On the one hand, relentless economic pressure and the transition to value-based care are forcing healthcare operators to seek not just incremental clinical gains, but also radical operational efficiency. They are now looking to MedTech as a core strategy to address their largest and most strained resource: their workforce.

On the other hand, this is only possible because technology has reached a tipping point. The convergence of cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and a growing mandate for interoperability means we can finally move beyond isolated devices. We can now build connected systems that don’t just generate data, but also analyse, interpret, and seamlessly integrate it into the clinical workflow.

RISE OF THE PROCEDURAL PLATFORM

The most immediate manifestation of this shift is the rise of the procedural platform.

For most hospitals today, operational complexity is staggering. During a single complex procedure – whether in orthopaedics or interventional cardiology – a hospital’s procurement and clinical teams are often forced to manage an incredibly fragmented supply chain.

They may juggle relationships with up to 15 different vendors for a single operating room, resulting in 15 different contracts, 15 sets of inventories, and 15 potential points of failure on any given day. It is profoundly inefficient and, frankly, unsustainable.

Hospitals are now demanding simplicity over variety. The key question for new equipment is no longer just “What does this product do?”, but “How does this product fit into our existing system?”.

The market is moving towards a model where hospitals buy outcomes and efficiency rather than individual tools. This transition from fragmentation to integrated platforms is where the significant financial prize now lies.

Our analysis shows that MedTech companies with a clear platform strategy are not only growing faster, but also commanding exit multiples that are, on average, two to three turns higher than standalone product companies in the same vertical.

FROM HARDWARE SALES TO DATA INFRASTRUCTURE

Perhaps the most profound change is the shift in the value of these workflows.

We are seeing a transformation of devices from simple hardware to data infrastructure. The buyer’s priorities are shifting accordingly; for many new device categories, seamless integration into the electronic medical record now outranks incremental clinical features as the top purchasing criterion.

This is act one of a larger story, where the data becomes more valuable than the device itself. MedTech firms are responding by transforming from industrial manufacturers into technology companies, aggressively retooling their talent base to hire for software and data science roles whilst hardware hiring remains flat.

The financial markets are rewarding this pivot with enormous premiums, valuing a recurring dollar of data revenue significantly higher than a one-time dollar of hardware revenue.

The goal is no longer just to build a device, but to build an ecosystem where the data infrastructure makes the system indispensable to both patients and clinicians.

AUTOMATION AS A STRUCTURAL SOLUTION

Whilst data solves digital complexity, automation is addressing the crises of the physical world.

A hidden cost in healthcare is the burden on labs and factory-floor workforces. Recent analysis suggests that, in many quality control labs, more than 60 percent of a skilled technician’s time is spent on manual sample handling, tracking, and documentation rather than value-added analysis. This is the primary source of human error and costly compliance deviations.

In this context, automation is no longer an optional upgrade; it is a structural necessity. By deploying modular robotics and automated genomic sequencing workflows, companies are delivering step-change improvements in productivity and speed.

These systems are increasingly underwritten as long-lifecycle infrastructure with high switching costs and deeply embedded, recurring revenue. They are not merely machines; they are the compliant, high-uptime manufacturing infrastructure that the entire life sciences sector relies on to function.

REANCHORING CARE BEYOND THE HOSPITAL

Finally, we are seeing a reanchoring of the healthcare system away from the hospital as the default centre of gravity.

Driven by constrained capacity and the maturation of remote monitoring and AI-enabled triage, high-acuity care is migrating down the acuity curve.

This shift is durable because outcomes and economics are finally aligned; hospital-at-home models are associated with lower readmissions and improved patient satisfaction.

For MedTech, the implication is that value increasingly accrues to companies that enable care beyond the four walls of the acute setting.

This is not about replacing hospitals, but expanding the infrastructure of care through monitoring networks, connected devices, and analytics layers.

The highest value is being created not by the device that goes into the home, but by the physical, financial, and digital plumbing that makes decentralised care operationally viable in the first place.

As we look to the next decade, the single thread that ties these strategies together is that the landscape no longer rewards companies that simply sell better products – it rewards those who build indispensable infrastructure.

These assets become embedded in daily operations, create deep competitive moats, and ultimately command the strategic valuations that define market leadership.

The infrastructure mindset is no longer just a strategic advantage; it is the primary driver of value creation in our industry.

The post Houlihan Lokey : Why the Next Decade of MedTech Belongs to Infrastructure appeared first on Healthcare Outlook.

ENDING MALARIA, REWRITING THE FUTURE

Founded in 1999, Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV) is a leading not-for-profit product development partnership (PDP) dedicated to the discovery, development, and delivery of affordable, innovative antimalarial drugs, particularly for vulnerable populations. 

Following recent economic analysis published in a Lancet Global Health study – which revealed 13-fold return in monetised health benefits for every USD$1 invested in MMV – the case for sustained investment in malaria drug development is garnering increased attention. 

“Findings of this kind change the tone of the funding conversation,” opens Dr Martin Fitchet, CEO of MMV.  

Whilst donors have historically faced competing priorities as drug development can appear a high-risk investment with long timeframes, the economic analysis published in the report allows drug development to be more widely discussed in terms of return on investment (ROI). 

“This is ultimately how a lot of funding decisions are made,” Fitchet adds.  

These figures, analysing MMV’s impact between 2000 and 2023, tangibly reflect that investing in drug development through the PDP model – which MMV believes to be the most efficient way to bridge the gap in new drugs for malaria – delivers exceptional value, resulting in fewer deaths across high-burden malaria-endemic countries. 

“For decision-makers facing difficult budget choices, this kind of independent study matters as it demonstrates credible evidence that provides a basis for multi-year funding commitments that promise sustained and measurable results,” insights Fitchet.  

As drug development requires long timelines and steady backing, evidence like this helps make the case for sustained funding so the discovery, development, and delivery of the next generation of antimalarials continues.  

TRUST THE PROCESS 

With the study accounting for both successful and failed R&D projects undertaken by MMV, Fitchet notes the importance of acknowledging the risks inherent to drug development when advocating for sustained investment.  

“It is fundamental to acknowledge these risks as drug development is inherently uncertain. Any robust assessment must account for the fact not every candidate succeeds,” he says.  

At the same time, Fitchet points out how failed R&D projects can also be a sign of success.  

“If we didn’t have failures, it would mean we were not being ambitious enough.”  

As such, analysis that truly acknowledges risk by including the costs of both successful and failed projects is integral.  

“We also applied conservative assumptions when estimating realised returns and only calculated the number of deaths averted between 2000 and 2023, not considering future deaths that will be averted from MMV-supported products,” Fitchet reflects. 

MMV manages a portfolio of drugs, as opposed to a single drug candidate, which means over the period assessed, it was overseeing the clinical development of more than 45 products – of which just 16 reached the market.  

As such, by spreading risk across a diversified pipeline and working in partnership with both public and private actors, MMV is reducing the impact of individual failures. 

“Being open and transparent about risk strengthens rather than weakens the case for sustained investment as it corroborates trust in the development process,” he confirms.  

BROADENING HORIZONS

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) World Malaria Report, malaria cases reached 282 million annual cases in 2024, whilst drug resistance continues to advance in Africa.  

As such, MMV is adapting its R&D pipeline to stay ahead of emerging resistance and safeguard the efficacy of current treatments.  

“Our focus is on closing the most urgent gaps in treatment. Existing medicines remain effective in many settings, but antimalarial drug resistance is advancing and poses a clear threat to global elimination efforts,” Fitchet warns.  

Without sustained investment, MMV faces the risk of losing hard-earned gains – which would, in turn, mean losing many more lives each year.  

Together with its partners, the organisation is actively broadening the range of available treatments so programmes are not reliant on a narrow set of options.  

MMV has already seen progress in this regard, with Coartem® Baby – the first antimalarial approved to treat newborns and young infants – and ganaplacide-lumefantrine – the first novel-acting non-artemisinin therapy in 25 years which recently completed late-stage clinical trials – both developed with Novartis.  

“These are important steps, but our pipeline must continue to innovate as malaria and its risks also adapt,” he outlines. 

From discovery through to delivery, the organisation works end-to-end in collaboration with partners across sectors and regions.  

“Our aim is to align R&D with evolving epidemiology and country needs. By advancing new compounds and optimised combinations, and by prioritising affordability and access, we seek to protect the effectiveness of current treatments whilst preparing credible alternatives for the future,” Fitchet details.

DISCOVERY, DEVELOPMENT, DELIVERY 

In recent years, the strength of PDP models has become clear, particularly when it comes to lowering risk and accelerating innovation – MMV’s own PDP differentiates the organisation from traditional pharmaceutical R&D models.  

“Along with other PDPs, we were formed off the back of market failure in delivering necessary lifesaving medicines,” Fitchet informs.  

Driven by public health needs as opposed to commercial return, MMV pools both donor funding and industry expertise to coordinate the discovery, development, and delivery of its medicines for a disease that disproportionately affects the poorest communities.  

“Our model lowers risk by sharing costs and capabilities and managing a balanced portfolio,” he adds. 

Since its inception, MMV – with its pharmaceutical and research partners – has brought forward 19 medicines that were distributed to around 1.48 billion people.  

Independent ROI analysis suggests this type of partnership model can deliver strong health and economic value whilst remaining accountable to its funders and the communities it serves.  

AHEAD OF THE CURVE 

Looking ahead, there are many challenges MMV faces when it comes to sustaining its momentum in the fight against malaria. 

“Funding is constrained, cases remain high, and resistance is fast-evolving,” Fitchet exemplifies. 

Further to this, drug development cycles are typically long and interruptions to support can delay promising candidates from getting to market.  

“This is why positive findings like the ones published are so important – they show material benefits for sustained investment in critical R&D for malaria elimination,” he shares. 

Elsewhere, MMV continues to innovate to stay ahead of emerging threats. 

“No single organisation can do this alone. We see MMV’s role as convening private and public actors to ensure innovation is aligned around shared public health goals and treatment reaches those most at risk,” Fitchet assesses. 

This includes working with both academia and industry to recognise their need to protect intellectual property, whilst negotiating terms that allow new medicines to be supplied through public sector channels at affordable prices – typically on a no-profit, no-loss basis. 

“Sustained commitment from governments, industry, and funding partners is therefore vital to continue to build on the important groundwork,” he passionately concludes.

The post Medicines for Malaria Venture : Ending Malaria, Rewriting the Future appeared first on Healthcare Outlook.

AN ECOSYSTEM OF INNOVATION

With the release of HSBC Innovation Banking Life Sciences’ UK & Europe: Life Sciences & Healthcare Venture Financing Report, which presents key findings from the 2025 financial year, a renewed sense of momentum can be felt across life sciences in the UK and Europe, bolstered by increasing deal activity and larger funding rounds.

For Dominick Kennerson, Director, Business Development, Life Sciences and Healthcare, these signals indicate not just recovery, but a more resilient and sustainable funding environment.

“There are a few things that point to a very healthy market – first is the sheer size and scale of funding,” Kennerson opens.

In 2025, a number of mega-rounds took place, with significant activity across the BioTech, BioPharma, and TechBio fields.

Notably, many of these rounds are occurring at the pre-clinical and Phase 1 stages, reinforcing investor confidence in early-stage innovation.

This pipeline of funding activity is complemented by strong investor appetites around emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI).

“We are also witnessing strong investor appetite for TechBio platforms – particularly those built around AI-driven models.

“Investors don’t want to miss the opportunities presented by these technologies,” he outlines.

CRITICAL RELATIONSHIP-BUILDING

Beyond capital availability, Kennerson highlights relationship-building as one of the most underutilised opportunities for scaling companies within the HealthTech sector.

As companies progress into later funding stages – particularly Series B and C – the need for international investor syndicates and collaboration becomes more pronounced.

“A best practice for companies looking to raise larger scale-up rounds is to start building those relationships well before they need capital,” Kennerson explains.

This is a dynamic that’s reinforced by how deals are sourced within the sector.

“I spoke recently with a US investor who said 95 percent of their inbound deal flow is referral-led, meaning one investor introducing another,” he reveals.

As such, relationship-building at this level is not just beneficial – it’s critical to unlocking capital.

MAJOR GROWTH DRIVER

As it continues to emerge as a major growth driver within the UK healthcare market, HealthTech tends to fall into two categories.

These are businesses focused on improving NHS efficiency statistics, as well as those aimed at treating patients’ needs as early as possible through preventative and consumer-led care – a dual approach reflected in recent high-profile funding rounds.

“Some of the largest HealthTech rounds in 2025 came from companies such as Neko Health, which is building an expanded clinic model and now operates more than a half-dozen clinics across the UK, having raised around £210 million to build out this infrastructure,” Kennerson highlights.

Another major funding round came from Cera Care (Cera), which is focused on home health services, demonstrating the importance of treating people at home where possible to reduce pressures on the NHS, whilst supporting the UK’s demographic trend to ageing.

Elsewhere, Kennerson has noticed an important shift taking place at the early stage.

“We are seeing companies operating something close to a bootstrap-blitzscale model,” he insights.

Indeed, rather than raising capital early on, many have found themselves building revenue and strengthening fundamentals before seeking institutional investment – a shift reflected at early-stage funding.

“The average first financing in HealthTech in FY25 was £5.8 million. The year before that it was around £3.7 million, and in 2023 it was around £3.3 million,” Kennerson points out.

As a result, companies are entering Series A rounds with stronger fundamental financial metrics and larger sums, contributing to the emergence of what Kennerson calls the “new Series A company”.

This evolution has also given rise to the possibility of a ‘one-and-done’ funding round where a single, well-capitalised raise may be efficient to scale to profitability and potential exit.

COLLABORATION AT SCALE

For Paula Burke, Director, HealthTech and Medical Devices at HSBC Innovation Banking Life Sciences, collaboration is defining the next phase of healthcare innovation – particularly where AI, data, and biology intersect.

“The partnerships I’m most excited to see are those bringing together data, AI, and biology with clinical workflow at scale,” she tells us.

These collaborations are becoming increasingly sophisticated, with recent examples including Tempus, AstraZeneca, and Pathos AI’s multi-year, strategic partnership to accelerate cancer drug discovery and precision medicine, and Isomorphic Labs’ partnerships with both Eli Lilly and Novartis to revolutionise drug discovery using AI.

“What’s interesting is these kinds of partnerships are no longer centred around a single asset but increasingly focused on AI platforms and data systems that can be applied across multiple programmes,” Burke adds.

AI is becoming increasingly embedded in everyday healthcare operations. For example, Burke cites Novo Nordisk’s collaboration with OpenAI to integrate advanced intelligence across the entire pharmaceutical value chain.

Developments such as these point to a broader shift in how innovation is being delivered.

FROM POTENTIAL TO IMPACT

With AI-enabled drug discovery and precision medicine already translating into real-world impact – albeit at different stages of maturity.

This is particularly evident in oncology, where genomic profiling and liquid biopsies are helping guide diagnoses and treatments.

Advances are also being seen in reducing treatment-related risks, with genetic testing to reduce avoidable side effects – including from typically invasive treatments such as chemotherapy.

AI-driven drug discovery, meanwhile, is gaining traction. Whilst still in its early stages, AI’s impact on trial speed, selection, and execution is already being keenly felt, with stronger clinical evidence expected in the near future.

“If precision medicine helps us choose the right treatment, AI can create more precise treatments in the first place,” Burke insights.

Indeed, AI can support target selection, the design of biomarker-led or mutation-specific therapies, and the identification of patient subgroups more likely to respond to treatment.

INNOVATING INTELLIGENT SOLUTIONS

Alongside HealthTech, MedTech is also undergoing rapid recent change, driven by advances in AI, connectivity, and data integration.

“MedTech devices are becoming more intelligent and connected to continuous patient data whilst being less invasive,” Burke outlines.

In neurology, for example, innovation is already improving outcomes, with AI-enabled stroke imaging tools improving early diagnosis and treatment decisions, helping clinicians detect issues earlier and intervene faster.

At the same time, continuous monitoring is reshaping care delivery, with long-term monitoring moving beyond the hospital.

“This helps support earlier intervention, better chronic disease management, and more care delivered at home,” she emphasises.

This shift is also evident in the convergence of consumer and clinical health technologies.

“Wearable fitness technology companies such as Oura and Whoop have evolved beyond fitness tracking into broader health platforms capable of generating continuous health data,” informs Burke.

Another area of rapid advancement is surgical robotics, with a new generation of robotics companies entering the market, making surgery more precise, less invasive, and more accessible.

STRUCTURAL STRENGTHS

Looking ahead, both Kennerson and Burke emphasise the structural strengths of the UK and Europe, particularly their academic ecosystems and talent base.

“The major advantage for the UK and Europe is the university system. The UK’s ‘Golden Triangle’ – including Oxford, Cambridge, and the London universities – offer an exceptional pipeline of talent.

“This is why innovative drug discovery companies such as Google DeepMind and Isomorphic Labs were created here in the UK – both of which are the brainchild of Sir Demis Hassabis, who graduated from University College London in 2019,” Kennerson details.

With funding options improving for start-ups and scale-ups – particularly in the £20 million to £50 million range – Q1 2026 has also seen healthier BioTech and BioPharma fundraising.

Burke notes how alternative financing structures are increasingly prominent, with more companies leveraging alternative financing alongside equity rounds to extend runway, support hiring, and accelerate commercial build-out.

As HSBC Innovation Banking is Europe’s most active debt provider in this space, supporting companies as they scale and helping regional players to thrive is deeply important.

REASON FOR OPTIMISM

Despite ongoing challenges, both Kennerson and Burke remain optimistic about the future of the sector.

For Kennerson, the emergence of a new generation of companies adopting more sophisticated funding strategies is part of a broader shift towards capital efficiency and optionality.

“The companies that are increasingly asking about non-dilutive financing and bank financing are thinking differently about growth and looking for smarter ways to fund it,” he observes.

Burke’s optimism, meanwhile, lies in the transformative potential of AI in what is one of the largest data generating industries in the world.

“The healthcare industry produces enormous volumes of data through electronic health records, wearable sensors, sequencing, and clinical trials.

“Historically underutilised, this data is now becoming actionable, with AI changing our ability to turn data into scalable insight,” she states.

From personalised medicine to preventative care and faster drug development, the implications are far-reaching.

“At scale, AI has the potential to democratise healthcare by extending better care outcomes to communities that have historically been underserved,” Burke confidently concludes.

The post HSBC Innovation Banking Life Sciences’ UK & Europe appeared first on Healthcare Outlook.

Issue 14

Hospital & Medical Center

Horizon Health Network : Pathways to Patient-Centered Progress

Horizon Health Network stands out as a leader in Canadian healthcare. President and CEO Margaret Melanson shares the organization’s innovative approaches and dedication to quality across its wide network of hospitals and facilities in New Brunswick.

By

Callum Ovenstone

Rachel Carr

May 19, 2026

Read More

Healthcare Providers

Newport Healthcare : Mental Health Matters

For Newport Healthcare, supporting patients at every stage of their mental health journey is a year-round responsibility. The executive team discusses providing compassionate, individualized care that empowers young people to heal and grow.

By

Callum Ovenstone

Jack Salter

May 19, 2026

Read More

Hospital & Medical Center

Joseph Brant Hospital : Project Harmony

A new integrated health information system will enable more seamless care for patients and improved experiences for healthcare providers at Joseph Brant Hospital, whose CEO, Eric Vandewall, reveals more about the implementation of Epic.

By

Callum Ovenstone

Jack Salter

May 19, 2026

Read More

Eye Care

John A. Moran Eye Center : Committed to Hope, Understanding, and Treatment

The John A. Moran Eye Center at the University of Utah is recognized for delivering compassionate, comprehensive, and high-quality care. Jeff Pettey, MD, MBA, CEO and Chair of the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at the University of Utah, shares how the center is shaping the future of eye care.

By

Callum Ovenstone

Lauren Kania

May 19, 2026

Read More

Emergency Medical Response

London Fire Brigade : Meeting Tomorrow’s Fire Service Needs Today

Now more than ever, London Fire Brigade must go above and beyond to protect the UK capital, which is witnessing fire risk levels like never before. Jonathan Smith, Commissioner, updates us on the Brigade’s plan of action to uphold the city’s safety.

By

Cameron Lawrence

Lucy Pilgrim

May 20, 2026

Read More

Diagnostics

Hardy Diagnostics : Defining the Future, Transcending the Ordinary

Hardy Diagnostics is the third-largest microbiological culture media manufacturer in the US, with a reputation for supplying quality products at a fair price with great customer service. We learn more from CEO, Chris Catani.

By

Callum Ovenstone

Ed Budds

May 19, 2026

Read More

Therapy

Elemind : Sleep On Demand

Elemind is pioneering read-write neurotechnology – the first wearable that can actively improve health in real time, not just measure it. Meredith Perry, co-Founder and CEO, tells us more about redefining what’s possible in neurotechnology and sleep science.

By

Lauren Kania

May 19, 2026

Read More

Expert Eye

Houlihan Lokey : Why the Next Decade of MedTech Belongs to Infrastructure

Paul Tomasic, Managing Director and Head of European Healthcare at Houlihan Lokey, outlines why the sector’s financial prize has shifted from hardware to the underlying digital and physical plumbing of healthcare.

By

Paul Tomasic

May 20, 2026

Read More

Healthcare Insights

HSBC Innovation Banking Life Sciences’ UK & Europe

Following the release of HSBC Innovation Banking Life Sciences’ UK & Europe: Life Sciences & Healthcare Venture Financing Report for FY25, we sit down with Paula Burke, Director, HealthTech and Medical Devices, and Dominick Kennerson, Director, Business Development, Life Sciences and Healthcare.

By

Lily Sawyer

May 20, 2026

Read More

Pharmaceutical

Medicines for Malaria Venture : Ending Malaria, Rewriting the Future

Medicines for Malaria Venture is continuing to innovate its R&D pipeline, collaborate with stakeholders, and refine its product development partnership model. Dr Martin Fitchet, CEO, tells us more.

By

Lily Sawyer

Jun 25, 2026

Read More

Healthcare Insights

Youvit : Making Health Delightful

Youvit has pioneered a lifestyle supplement brand built around delightful, one-a-day gummy vitamins tailored to meet the needs of millennial and Gen-Z customers across Southeast Asia. Wouter van der Kolk, co-Founder and CEO, shares more.

By

Lily Sawyer

May 20, 2026

Read More

Healthcare Supply Chain

Zipline Rwanda : Autonomous Delivery Across Rwanda

Rwanda is to become the first country in the world with nationwide autonomous delivery, including Africa’s first urban drone delivery network. We learn about this historic expansion agreement with Pierre Kayitana, Country Director of Zipline Rwanda.

By

Jack Salter

Jun 25, 2026

Read More

The post Healthcare Outlook Issue 14 appeared first on Healthcare Outlook.

AUTONOMOUS DELIVERY ACROSS RWANDA

A decade ago, Rwanda became the first country in the world to launch Zipline’s national autonomous medical delivery service.

Zipline, an artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics company, designs and operates autonomous logistics systems that enable on-demand delivery of blood, vaccines, and essential medicines, fully integrated into national health systems.

In Rwanda, the network supports nationwide coverage and has contributed to improvements in access to healthcare, including a reported 51 percent reduction in maternal deaths.

Now, under a historic expansion agreement between the government and Zipline, Rwanda will also become the first country with full nationwide autonomous logistics coverage.

It will deploy Zipline’s urban delivery system, known as Platform 2 (P2), starting in the capital, Kigali, where a large share of the country’s healthcare demand is concentrated.

“In addition, Rwanda will host Africa’s first AI and robotics testing and research centre, strengthening its position as a leader in advanced technology and innovation on the continent,” acclaims Pierre Kayitana, Country Director of Zipline Rwanda.

“The expansion also includes the construction of a third long-range distribution hub in Karongi, complementing existing hubs in Muhanga and Kayonza.”

The network will support approximately 350 local jobs and further integrate delivery data into Rwanda’s national health information and emergency response systems.

Importantly, the model reflects a strong government-led approach. The US government is providing upfront infrastructure funding, whilst the Rwanda government is committed to financing ongoing operations.

“This ensures the system is financially sustainable, nationally operated, and embedded within Rwanda’s broader strategy for resilient, technology-driven healthcare,” Kayitana affirms.

ADVANCED LOGISTICS LEADER

By scaling what began as an innovative pilot into permanent national infrastructure, Rwanda has cemented its position as a global leader in advanced logistics.

What started as a targeted effort to improve access to blood in a handful of hospitals has evolved into a nationwide autonomous delivery network embedded in the public health system.

“Today, Zipline is responsible for delivering approximately 75 percent of Rwanda’s national blood supply outside of Kigali,” highlights Kayitana.

This next phase goes further; by hosting Zipline’s first overseas R&D hub, Rwanda is positioning itself not only as a user of frontier technology, but as a place where the next generation of AI, robotics, and autonomous logistics systems will be developed. In doing so, the country is helping shape the future of global supply chains.

A decade of operational data shows the tangible impact of this approach, as Zipline’s system has reduced medical waste by enabling centralised inventory and on-demand delivery.

It has also dramatically improved emergency response times for time-critical treatments such as blood for maternal haemorrhages.

This demonstrates that high-tech logistics can be both effective and economically efficient when deployed at national scale.

“Independent studies consistently find that Zipline’s network ranks amongst the highest-impact and most cost-effective health system interventions studied in recent years – improving outcomes across immunisation, maternal health, nutrition programmes, and emergency care whilst strengthening the reliability of national supply chains,” Kayitana highlights.

AUTONOMOUS DELIVERY SYSTEM

Zipline’s next-generation autonomous delivery system, P2, is designed for fast, quiet, and highly precise deliveries in dense urban environments.

Unlike earlier systems built primarily for long-range medical deliveries, P2 is designed to operate within cities, enabling items to be delivered directly to homes, hospitals, offices, and public spaces with very high accuracy.

“The system uses a new aircraft design with a smaller delivery droid that lowers packages gently to the ground, allowing for maximum accuracy, which makes it well-suited for urban settings like Kigali,” explains Kayitana.

This progress has been championed by Rwandan authorities, notably the Minister of Health, Dr Sabin Nsanzimana, who was recently named to the TIME100 Next list for his work in strengthening Rwanda’s health system through data-driven decision-making and innovation.

Under his leadership, Rwanda has benefitted from the impact of the integration of technology into healthcare delivery, allowing for improved and more reliable access to essential services.

The introduction of the urban delivery system in Kigali will address the high concentration of healthcare demand in the capital, enabling fast and precise deliveries within dense city environments.

“Introducing P2 in Rwanda means the country will be the first in Africa to deploy this type of urban autonomous logistics system,” Kayitana tells us.

“It will expand the range of deliveries that can be supported, improve response times in cities, and further integrate autonomous delivery into everyday healthcare and commercial logistics.”

LONG-RANGE COVERAGE

The new long-range distribution centre in Karongi is built on the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), intended as a symbol of peace between the two countries.

Its overall goal is to expand delivery capacity, expected to serve approximately 200 health posts and 60 major health facilities, reaching more than 2.9 million people.

“Together with the other hubs, it will help deliver full nationwide coverage, allowing Zipline’s network to support more than 11 million people across Rwanda,” informs Kayitana.

The addition of a third hub guarantees the provision of long-range coverage across the country, ensuring even remote and hard-to-reach communities can receive critical medical supplies quickly.

By integrating this connected network into national health systems, Rwanda is building a logistics infrastructure that ensures essential medicines and supplies can reach communities quickly and reliably, regardless of location.

The new AI and robotics testing facility, meanwhile, will serve as Zipline’s first R&D hub outside the US.

“This facility will allow us to test our technology in a range of real-world conditions, including different climates and terrain, helping improve the reliability and performance of aircrafts and systems globally,” Kayitana insights.

“It will also support the development of local talent by creating opportunities to work directly on advanced robotics and AI systems.”

INFLUENCE BEYOND LOGISTICS

Rwanda is demonstrating that autonomous delivery works at national scale, and in real-world conditions, as part of a government-led system.

“Independent research has increasingly validated the transformative power of this system, demonstrating that its influence extends far beyond mere logistics,” notes Kayitana.

“By optimising the delivery of critical goods, it has fundamentally reshaped supply chain efficiency – drastically reducing waste and theft whilst virtually eliminating the risk of stockouts.”

The impact on public health is even more profound, representing some of the most significant outcomes ever documented through a supply chain intervention.

Data confirms a staggering 56 percent reduction in maternal mortality and a 42 percent decrease in zero-dose prevalence.

Zipline is the most cost-effective immunisation intervention and one of the most cost-effective maternal health interventions on record.

Beyond these clinical milestones, the system serves as a powerful engine for economic stability.

“By creating hundreds of local jobs and safeguarding the health of the workforce, it generates tens of millions in annual economic growth, proving that a resilient supply chain is the essential foundation for a thriving society,” Kayitana closes.

The post Zipline Rwanda : Autonomous Delivery Across Rwanda appeared first on Healthcare Outlook.

MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS

Mental health is deeply connected to every aspect of a person’s life, from physical health to relationships, education, and workforce productivity.

Promoting it is therefore critical, especially amid the ongoing mental health crisis in the US, for which Mental Health Awareness Month serves as an important reminder each May.

However, the reality is that mental health and wellness should be a national priority every single day.

Meaningful progress has been made in reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues, but too many individuals and families still face barriers to accessing care or feel hesitant to seek help.

“National awareness efforts play a vital role in normalizing conversations, encouraging early intervention, and reinforcing the importance of evidence-based mental health care,” emphasizes Brian Setzer, Chief Executive Officer of Newport Healthcare (Newport) – a leading provider of evidence-based behavioral health treatment for youth, young adults, and families.

“At a broader level, promoting mental wellness strengthens communities; when people have access to the right support at the right time, outcomes improve for individuals and families. Mental Health Awareness Month helps shine a light on that collective responsibility and the work that still needs to be done.”

Newport supports Mental Health Awareness Month by sharing resources throughout May with its audience of mental health professionals, past and current patients, and families.

The company conducts continuing education webinars and promotes the awareness month on its social media channels to highlight specific mental health trends and share inspirational stories of hope.

Various events are also held at Newport programs across the country for employees and patients to celebrate mental health and well-being.

“But really, every month is Mental Health Awareness Month at Newport,” acknowledges Setzer.

“We are focused year-round on sharing information, reducing stigma around treatment, and increasing access to care for young people and families.”

CONTINUUM OF CARE

The full continuum of care at Newport includes nationwide residential services, partial hospitalization programs (PHPs), and intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) for mental health and substance use disorders, as well as psychiatric inpatient services.

Newport’s family-centered, integrated approach fosters sustainable healing from a foundation of compassionate care and clinical expertise.

“Our stated mission is to provide results-driven, clinically integrated behavioral healthcare to individuals and families – creating hope, sustainable healing, and resiliency,” Setzer outlines.

Newport’s vision is to be the transformative leader in behavioral healthcare, focused on increasing access, driving innovation, and fostering authentic connections that inspire hope.

The company currently has residential treatment programs in eight states: California, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Minnesota (MN), North Carolina, Utah, Virginia, and Washington.

It also has outpatient treatment programs in each of those states, along with Georgia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, as well as an inpatient hospital in Brooklyn Park, MN.

“We have over 3,500 dedicated employees across the US. Our workforce of skilled and compassionate individuals is integral to the important, life-changing work we do,” Setzer says.

INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIES

Newport has expanded into new markets and added to its service offerings over the past few years.

This includes developing a learning health system, using valuable data gathered over many years to improve care quality as the company grows – by infusing best practices at scale and improving reliability in its outcomes.

“We continue to expand our service offering with a commitment to excellence and leading with innovation as patient needs evolve in each region across the US,” affirms Jameson Norton, MBA, FACHE, Chief Operating Officer.

Moreover, Newport is leaning into various technologies both in the delivery of care and the care itself.

For adult patients with treatment-resistant depression, the company’s PrairieCare division in Minnesota has deployed transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), a US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved intervention that gives patients who have struggled for years an opportunity for relief.

Newport’s outcomes data shows that more than half of their TMS patients experience 50 percent improvements in their depression symptoms.

“We have also built out technologies that allow us to analyze data, patterns, and outcomes, providing us with tailored approaches to treatment at the individual level,” says Chief Innovation and Optimization Officer, Dr. Brent Nelson, MD.

In addition to offering innovative services like TMS, Newport is embracing the artificial intelligence (AI) revolution – to assist rather than replace humans.

“There is more demand for mental health services than can be possibly managed by our existing workforce. We must work smarter to be able to let our workforce focus on human connection, interaction, and healing, and use our AI assistants to help us get the busy work of healthcare accomplished in automated ways,” insights Nelson.

“We can deploy innovations around data gathering, writing documentation, providing assistants to facilitate real-time, continuous communication, and automated tracking of things that need to be accomplished in the context of care.”

The goal is to make the experience even more of a human connection, with AI working in the background to ensure Newport is meeting the highest levels of quality and safety.

This has also provided the company with significant insight into its data around outcomes and measures.

“In the past, it would have taken an army of statisticians to manage and analyze our data. Now, with AI assistants, we can put that power directly in the hands of our healthcare experts to allow them to find actionable patterns in their data,” Nelson enthuses.

CLINICAL COMPLEXITY

Mental health treatment is not one-size-fits-all, and the populations Newport serves are increasing in clinical complexity.

“Expanding our capabilities allows us to meet people where they are, with care that is clinically appropriate and proven to be effective,” Norton notes.

As the demand for mental health services continues to grow, so does the responsibility to ensure care is accessible and adaptable.

That means investing in a full continuum of care, developing specialized programming, and being intentional about addressing gaps that have historically limited access to quality treatment.

“Accessibility and affordability are essential to expanding care in this country. Whereas mental health treatment 15 years ago was prominently private pay – meaning it was paid directly out of pocket by families – they are increasingly turning to their insurance provider to pay for care,” observes Norton.

“Partnering with insurance providers helps families access quality healthcare much more easily. We currently accept most major insurances and are actively adding more – this is a priority for families and for Newport.”

Adapting to the changing mental health landscape in the US is essential. The needs of children, teenagers, and young adults are evolving rapidly, influenced by factors like technology, social dynamics, academic pressure, and broader societal uncertainty.

At the same time, there is increased acuity, earlier onset of symptoms, and more complex co-occurring conditions.

“If we don’t evolve alongside those changes and diversify our capabilities, we risk falling short of what patients and families truly need,” Norton warns.

“That means continuously reassessing how care is delivered, expanding access points, and integrating new, evidence-based approaches that reflect both clinical advancements and real-world challenges.”

This also requires a willingness to listen to patients, families, and clinicians on the front lines and use that insight to inform innovation.

Whether it’s enhancing specialized programming, strengthening early intervention, or leveraging data to guide treatment, adaptability is what allows Newport to stay effective and relevant.

“By staying responsive to the changing mental health landscape, we can ensure the care we provide remains impactful, accessible, and aligned with the realities families are facing right now,” Norton sets out.

OUTCOMES RESEARCH

Newport is proud of its focus on measurement-based care programs and long-standing commitment to outcomes research.

The company has a dedicated Center for Research and Innovation focused on tracking and analyzing its treatment outcomes.

Recent data highlights the effectiveness of the company’s treatment programs, showing patients experience measurable improvements in depression, anxiety, suicide risk, well-being, family attachment, general functioning, and other measures.

“Independently reviewed by a third-party academic consultant, this research is evidence that our comprehensive treatment model creates transformative, lasting results for adolescents and young adults in both residential and outpatient care,” acclaims Norton.

“Outcomes studies are essential because they ensure we’re not just providing care – we’re delivering care that truly makes a difference.

“In behavioral healthcare, it’s critical to move beyond intention and rigorously measure impact. Our outcomes data allows us to evaluate what’s working, identify opportunities to improve, and hold ourselves accountable to the patients and families we serve,” he adds.

The data is used to inform every aspect of treatment and helps Newport to refine clinical models, tailor interventions to better meet the needs of specific populations, and ensure its approaches are grounded in evidence.

This continuous feedback loop allows the company to adapt in real time and stay aligned with best practices in the field.

“We also track how patients are doing after they leave our care, and we can see they maintain improvements months later and are functioning better in multiple aspects of their daily lives, such as relationships, school, work, and family connection,” Norton states proudly.

Just as important, outcomes data builds trust. For families making incredibly important decisions about care, having transparency into proven results provides confidence that they are choosing a program dedicated to quality, accountability, and long-term success.

“Ultimately, our focus on outcomes is about ensuring every young person who comes to us has the best possible opportunity to heal and thrive,” Norton says.

SPECIALIZED OCD CARE

For children and adolescents struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), Newport has developed specialized care, recognizing both the complexity of the condition and profound impact it can have on a young person’s development and daily life.

About 20 percent of people with OCD experience onset at age 10 or earlier. It is also often misunderstood or misdiagnosed, which can delay effective treatment, so early identification and the right clinical approach are critical.

“Our programs are grounded in evidence-based practices, particularly exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy, which is widely considered the gold standard for treating OCD,” Norton tells us.

“What sets our approach apart is how we integrate this modality into a broader, individualized treatment plan that also addresses co-occurring conditions, family dynamics, and the unique developmental needs of each patient.”

Newport also places a strong emphasis on family involvement, equipping parents and caregivers with the tools and understanding they need to support their child’s progress outside of treatment.

“Ultimately, our goal is not just symptom reduction, but helping young people regain a sense of control, confidence, and the ability to fully engage in their lives,” he assures.

CLINICALLY CREDIBLE

Clearly, Newport is uniquely positioned to serve adolescents and young adults on a national basis across the full continuum of care.

“We are heavily focused on refining our care delivery models to create a partnership with our patients, their families, and their insurance providers to ensure treatment accessibility, affordability, and best-in-class outcomes,” Setzer informs us.

Looking ahead, the company is committed to improving timely and efficient access to care in every market while advancing its clinical outcomes and its position as a trusted and clinically credible leader in behavioral healthcare.

“Part of fulfilling this promise is ensuring Newport is a great place to work for our employees, allowing them to grow as professionals in our team-based care model, career ladders, and training opportunities,” Norton shares.

Newport’s central focus is to deliver the highest quality of care through understanding and respect for the individual’s journey.

“We utilize deep connections, team-based approaches, and focused treatments based on modern, research-proven techniques,” Nelson closes.

“The goal is to get the individual back to health and back to their life in a way that supports their full recovery.”

The post Newport Healthcare : Mental Health Matters appeared first on Healthcare Outlook.

SLEEP ON DEMAND

Foundational to both physical and emotional health, sleep is crucial to the ability to perform at your best. Not only does it play a critical role in cognitive functions, but it also aids in tissue repair, muscle growth, and immune system strengthening – making high-performance sleep essential for overall well-being.

Elemind is here to help people take back control of their sleeping patterns.

As a neurotechnology company building the first clinically validated, non-invasive platform that can read and write to the brain in real-time, Elemind combines advanced neuromodulation algorithms and artificial intelligence (AI) to guide the brain from one state to another just using acoustic neurostimulation.

“We launched commercially in 2024 with a wearable electroencephalogram (EEG) headband designed to help people fall asleep and fall back to sleep significantly faster without drugs,” introduces Meredith Perry, co-Founder and CEO.

“Whereas every other wearable just reads, Elemind reads and writes. We don’t just track the brain – we change it directly,” she asserts.

Elemind’s industry-changing product is built on direct, real-time interface with the brain. Using high-fidelity EEG, the company continuously reads neural activity and applies precisely timed acoustic stimulation individualized to each person’s brain dynamics.

The system models a user’s neural state moment by moment and intervenes at exactly the right phase of ongoing brain activity. This closed-loop approach, grounded in peer-reviewed clinical research and protected by patents, allows Elemind to influence sleep at the level where it naturally occurs – the brain itself.

The company views this as a new class of non-invasive medicine, one that uses sound, timing, and neuromodulation to produce measurable physiological effects.

“Elemind is building infrastructure, not a gadget,” emphasizes Perry.

“We are laying the foundation for how humans will interact with their own brains safely, non-invasively, and intelligently. Sleep is where that journey begins, but it’s not where it ends.”

THE FUTURE OF SLEEP

Elemind has pioneered a practical, wearable implementation of closed-loop neuromodulation, combining high-fidelity EEG, low-latency signal processing, AI, and precisely phase-locked acoustic stimulation in a consumer-ready device.

“Critically, our stimulation is not static. It is timed to the user’s own brainwaves, down to the millisecond,” Perry details.

This real-time phase targeting allows Elemind to influence sleep onset and other neural transitions effectively and is supported by multiple peer-reviewed studies. No other consumer-available system operates at this level of temporal and physiological precision.

The company is demonstrating that sleep can be treated as a modifiable neural process rather than something one merely observes or sedates.

“By gently intervening at the right time, we can help people fall asleep faster, improve sleep continuity, and potentially enhance deeper stages of sleep without pharmaceuticals,” expands Perry.

Beyond sleep quality, the implications include better next-day performance, improved recovery, and reduced reliance on sleep medications. More broadly, Elemind is helping shift health and wellness toward targeted, non-invasive, and adaptive interventions.

BEYOND SLEEP

Elemind’s vision of ‘beyond sleep’ exemplifies its ambition to unlock the brain’s potential, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in neurotechnology and sleep science.

“Sleep is our entry point, not our endpoint. We chose sleep because it gives us long, high-quality neural data every night and a clinically meaningful problem where real-time modulation matters,” Perry informs.

Beyond sleep, the vision is a platform for the brain. Clinical trials using Elemind’s technology show efficacy in improving memory consolidation, recovery, neurological disorders such as tremors, and other brain state-dependent conditions.

Long-term, Elemind is building an adaptive neural system that learns from each interaction with the brain and improves over time.

To achieve this, the company is working on a variety of projects to expand its capabilities. One such initiative is the Deep Sleep Stimulation, which builds on Elemind’s work on sleep onset and targets slow-wave activity during rest. Its goal is to enhance sleep depth and the brain’s natural restorative and memory-related processes.

“This work is also being extended into clinical research. We recently received a USD$6.3 million grant from the Medical Research Council (MRC) to study how enhancing deep sleep may support memory consolidation in people with dementia,” details Perry.

“It’s an important step in understanding how targeted, non-invasive brain modulation during sleep could have meaningful neurological benefits beyond sleep quality alone.”

WHERE THE JOURNEY BEGINS

Elemind is proudly built by a small, deeply technical team that spans neuroscience, electrical engineering, machine learning (ML), and applied clinical research. The team includes industry engineers and world-class academic collaborators, and has multiple peer-reviewed clinical trials published in top scientific journals.

Its scientific co-Founders include Dr. Ed Boyden from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), a pioneer in neurotechnology, and Dr. Nir Grossman from Imperial College London, whose work has helped define modern non-invasive brain stimulation.

Co-Founder and CTO, Dr. David Wang, also holds a PhD in AI from MIT and leads the development of the company’s real-time neural modeling and closed-loop systems.

“I come from a background in astrobiology and wireless power, which has helped shape how we think about building precise, scalable technology for complex biological systems,” explains Perry.

Elemind also works closely with Dr. Heather Read, a professor at the University of Connecticut, whose expertise in sleep and neurophysiology informs the company’s clinical direction.

Supporting the science behind Elemind is a lean, highly effective team of engineers, operations leaders, and marketers who focus on translating rigorous research into products people can actually use.

“Together, our team is pushing the boundaries of what non-invasive neurotechnology can do, while staying grounded in real-world impact,” prides Perry.

As Elemind continues to look ahead towards a successful future of promoting deep, regenerative sleep, its priorities comprise expanding clinical validation, launching new sleep-stage specific features, and scaling access to the technology responsibly.

“We are also deepening partnerships across healthcare, wellness, and performance, while investing heavily in our core neuromodulation platform,” she concludes.

The post Elemind : Sleep On Demand appeared first on Healthcare Outlook.

AI-DRIVEN ADVANCEMENT IN PARKINSON’S CARE

Cellular Intelligence has entered into an agreement with Novo Nordisk to acquire global rights to the pharmaceutical giant’s clinical-stage cell therapy programme for Parkinson’s disease.

The agreement marks a significant milestone for Cellular Intelligence as it looks to apply its proprietary AI-native platform to accelerate clinical development, manufacturing, and the path towards commercialisation for the programme, which is currently in a first-in-human Phase 1/2 clinical trial.

Importantly, the therapy has already received FDA Fast Track Designation and IND clearance for further clinical development, underscoring its potential as a meaningful disease-modifying treatment for people living with Parkinson’s disease.

As part of the arrangement, Novo Nordisk will also make an equity investment into Cellular Intelligence and remain eligible for future milestones and royalties.

SCALING CELL THERAPY THROUGH AI

At the centre of the collaboration is Cellular Intelligence’s AI-native platform, which combines proprietary multiplexing technologies with a foundation model trained on data spanning millions of unique perturbation conditions.

The company believes this approach can significantly compress traditional cell therapy development and manufacturing timelines whilst reducing costs and improving scalability – key barriers that have historically limited wider commercial adoption within regenerative medicine.

The Parkinson’s programme itself focuses on an allogeneic pluripotent stem cell-derived dopaminergic progenitor therapy, designed to address the growing global burden of neurodegenerative disease.

Beyond the immediate programme, Cellular Intelligence also expects the clinical and manufacturing data generated through development to further strengthen its foundation model, potentially enabling wider applications across cell therapy and regenerative medicine in the future.

STRENGTHENING CLINICAL LEADERSHIP

To support the programme’s continued advancement, Cellular Intelligence has appointed Nuno Mendonça, M.D., as Chief Medical Officer.

A board-certified neurologist, Dr. Mendonça brings extensive experience from senior clinical development roles at Bial, AbbVie, and Novartis Gene Therapies, spanning both early- and late-stage neuroscience and rare disease programmes across North America and Europe.

The appointment reflects Cellular Intelligence’s ambitions to rapidly scale the programme’s clinical progression whilst leveraging its AI capabilities to streamline manufacturing and operational efficiency.

Operating under the legal entity Somite Therapeutics, Cellular Intelligence describes itself as an AI-native TechBio focused on building a universal foundation model of cell signalling to better understand, predict, and ultimately control cellular behaviour.

Headquartered in Boston, the company has raised more than USD$60 million to date from investors including Khosla Ventures, CZI, SciFi VC, and AMD Ventures, as it continues expanding its clinical-stage regenerative medicine platform.

The post Novo Nordisk and Cellular Intelligence Advance Parkinson’s Therapy appeared first on Healthcare Outlook.

Lilly Increases Indiana Manufacturing Commitments to More Than $21 Billion

The latest commitment brings Lilly’s total Indiana capital expansion investment since 2020 to more than $21 billion, reinforcing the company’s long-term focus on scaling U.S.-based pharmaceutical production capacity to support growing demand for advanced therapies and metabolic disease treatments.

The investment will support expanded capabilities at Lilly Lebanon API, one of the company’s future active pharmaceutical ingredient production facilities, and Lilly Lebanon Advanced Therapies, which officially opened this week.

Genetic Medicine Facility Marks New Phase in Advanced Therapy Manufacturing

Lilly Lebanon Advanced Therapies is the company’s first dedicated manufacturing facility focused on genetic medicines.

The site is designed to support both clinical and commercial-scale production of therapies targeting disease at the genetic level, including a range of advanced treatment modalities from early-stage development through large-scale supply.

According to Lilly, designing the facility required the development of new manufacturing processes without established commercial precedent, highlighting the growing complexity of next-generation pharmaceutical production infrastructure.

The facility is the first of three planned manufacturing sites on the Lebanon campus, which will also include Lilly Lebanon API and the Lilly Medicine Foundry.

Expanded Capacity Supports Obesity and Diabetes Drug Production

The Lebanon API site is expected to manufacture several of Lilly’s key metabolic disease products, including:

• Zepbound® (tirzepatide) for weight management
• Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) for type 2 diabetes
• Foundayo™ (orforglipron), Lilly’s FDA-approved once-daily weight loss pill
• Retatrutide, an investigational obesity and cardiometabolic therapy currently in late-stage development

When completed, the Lebanon API facility is expected to become the largest API production site in U.S. history.

“From genetic medicines that could one day prevent disease at its source, to Foundayo, a pill making weight loss treatment accessible to millions, we are not just discovering the medicines of the future—we are building the world’s most advanced plants to make them,” said David A. Ricks, Lilly chair and CEO.

Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Expansion Strengthens U.S. Supply Chain Strategy

The announcement reflects broader industry efforts to strengthen domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing capacity and reduce supply chain risk through increased U.S.-based production.

U.S. capital expansion commitments since 2020 now total more than $50 billion, supported by policies promoting domestic manufacturing investment and the company plans to begin construction on several newly announced U.S. manufacturing facilities later this year.

Indiana Governor Mike Braun said the investment reinforces the state’s position within the life sciences manufacturing sector.

“With this investment in Lebanon and across the state, Indiana is reinforcing its position as a prime destination for life sciences and advanced manufacturing, spanning innovation, production and global distribution,” Braun said.

Manufacturing Investments Deliver Broader Economic Impact

According to findings from an upcoming Indiana University Kelley School of Business report cited by Lilly, the company accounts for 70% of Indiana’s pharmaceutical GDP, with every Lilly job supporting more than two additional jobs statewide.

Lilly also estimates that every dollar it spends locally generates up to four dollars in additional regional economic activity.

The Lebanon manufacturing campus has become a central component of Lilly’s domestic production strategy as pharmaceutical companies continue increasing investment in advanced biologics, obesity therapies, and next-generation genetic medicines.

“Lilly’s sustained investments since 2020 underscore the growing strength of Indiana’s life sciences sector,” said Indiana University President Pamela Whitten. “Progress at this scale is possible only through robust partnerships.”

The post Eli Lilly Expands North America Indiana Manufacturing Investment with Genetic Medicine Facility appeared first on Healthcare Outlook.

Wearables Move Further into Preventive Healthcare

Samsung Electronics has announced the results of a joint clinical study with Chung-Ang University Gwangmyeong Hospital demonstrating the potential for smartwatch-based prediction of vasovagal syncope (VVS), commonly known as fainting.

The research used biosignal data collected from the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 and analysed heart rate variability patterns through an AI algorithm to identify signs of an impending fainting episode.

According to the study, the model was able to predict episodes up to five minutes in advance with an accuracy rate of 84.6%.

Addressing Risks Associated with Vasovagal Syncope

Vasovagal syncope occurs when heart rate and blood pressure suddenly drop, often triggered by stress or other physiological factors, leading to temporary loss of consciousness.

While fainting itself is generally not life-threatening, falls associated with episodes can result in serious secondary injuries, including fractures and concussions.

“Up to 40% of people experience vasovagal syncope over their lifetime, with one-third experiencing recurrent episodes,” said Junhwan Cho, Professor of Cardiology at Chung-Ang University Gwangmyeong Hospital.

“An early warning could give patients advance time to get into a safe position or call for help, which would dramatically reduce the incidence of secondary injuries.”

Clinical Validation Using Consumer Wearables

The study evaluated 132 patients with suspected VVS symptoms during induced fainting tests.

Researchers used the smartwatch’s photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor to collect heart rate variability data, which was then processed through an AI model trained to detect physiological changes preceding fainting episodes.

The system achieved a clinically meaningful sensitivity of 90% and specificity of 64%, supporting the feasibility of wearable-based prediction systems in healthcare settings.

Samsung said the findings represent the first study to demonstrate the potential for a commercial smartwatch to provide early prediction of syncope.

Expanding the Role of Digital Health Monitoring

The findings reflect a broader trend toward integrating consumer-grade wearable devices into preventive healthcare and remote patient monitoring strategies.

“This study is an example of how wearable technology can help shift healthcare from being designed for ‘post-care’ to a model of ‘preventive care,’” said Jongmin Choi, Head of Health R&D Group at Samsung’s Mobile eXperience Business.

“We are committed to driving technological innovation that empowers our users to lead healthier everyday lives.”

Real Implications for Healthcare Providers

For healthcare providers, the study suggestss the increasing clinical potential of wearable biosignal monitoring in early intervention and patient safety applications.

The ability to identify high-risk events before symptoms escalate could support new models of remote monitoring, particularly for patients with recurrent syncope conditions or elevated fall risk.

For digital health developers, the research also adds the growing convergence of AI analytics, biosensors and consumer devices in preventive care pathways.

The post Can a Smart Watch Predict Fainting? Samsung Study Demonstrates Preventative Healthcare Tech Solution appeared first on Healthcare Outlook.