This Week’s Headlines
Treasury Begins Closer Look at Tax Inversion Policies
Posted 4/26/2017
The U.S. Treasury will begin reviewing its recently introduced rules as part of an executive order signed by President Trump which stipulated that any rules enacted in 2016 and 2017 were to be reviewed for complexity and “undue burdens.” This means that tax inversions may be making a comeback in the pharmaceutical industry. In recent years, these inversions have been the subject of Treasury scrutiny, but may see a sharp rise in activity in 2017 and 2018. This activity could boost industry competition. Read the full article here.
Anthem Profits in 2017, but May Still Leave ACA
Posted 4/26/2017
Anthem has announced a profit increase of $1 billion in the first quarter of 2017, but remains clear that it will consider reducing services provided if the Trump administration does not fund cost-sharing reductions. The insurance corporation is one of many to recently express interest in leaving the program due to higher costs. Last month, UnitedHealth announced an increase in profits after leaving the ACA in favor of the private market. Read the full article here.
Children’s Hospital Innovated Premature Infant Care
Posted 4/26/2017
Researchers have potentially found the answer to premature infant care in the form of artificial wombs. The devices are structured to look like a standard infant incubator, but are able to give babies the feel of an actual womb. Studies performed with premature animals have concluded positively, noting normal growth and developmental habits in the fetuses. Scientists believe that these devices could curb premature infant care costs and further care abilities. Read the full article here.
Allergan Gains Approval for Noninvasive Dry Eye Device
Posted 4/26/2017
The FDA has given Allergan the green light for its tear-inducing device, TrueTear. The neurostimulating device is a non-invasive and drug free temporary solution to increase tear production. This device is the first of its kind, and creating a breakthrough for treatment associated with dry eye disease. Adults who utilize the device will be able to increase tear flow and production by placing disposable tips into their nasal cavity. Read the full press release here.
Two Pore Guys Begin Hand Held Diagnostic Development
Posted 4/26/2017
Two Pore guys have raised $24.5 million in a Series A Round to begin the development and testing of a hand-help diagnostic tool. The tool is likened to a glucose monitor and will use disposable strips to detect “any kind of molecule.” The company is hoping to broaden the tool’s scope of work to include food, animal, human, and regulatory uses. Read the full article here.
