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Healthcare News, Deals, and Investments Update Feb 9th, 2026

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  1. Weight-loss drugs to compete on biggest stage with Super Bowl ads (Link)
    • Official NFL Super Bowl Commercials 2026 – All Commercials (Link)
      • Novo Nordisk (Wegovy): Celebrity-filled oral weight-loss pill promo. (Link)
      • Hims & Hers: Highlights wealth-health inequality gap. (Link)
      • Ro: Serena Williams promotes GLP-1 telehealth. (Link)
      • Novartis: Encourages prostate cancer blood test screening. (Link)
      • Boehringer Ingelheim: Raises awareness for kidney disease screening. (Link)
  2. TrumpRx launches with AstraZeneca, Eli Lilly, EMD Serono, Novo Nordisk, and Pfizer to offer discounted drugs for U.S. cash‑paying patients under Most favoured Nation policy
    The TrumpRx direct‑to‑consumer platform introduces over 40 discounted prescription drugs to help uninsured or cash‑paying U.S. patients access more affordable treatments. The initiative, backed by the first five pharmaceutical companies signing pricing deals under the Most Favoured Nation policy, includes major blockbusters such as Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy and Eli Lilly’s Zepbound, both offered at significantly reduced prices. Additional products include insulin, fertility therapies, and inhalers from Pfizer and others. Sixteen global drugmakers are expected to join the platform, which aims to align U.S. medication prices with international standards while reshaping the domestic pricing landscape and consumer access dynamics. (Link)
  3. Takeda deepens AI drug discovery push with $1.7 billion Iambic deal
    Takeda Pharmaceutical enters multi-year AI drug discovery collaboration with Iambic Therapeutics worth more than $1.7 billion to accelerate small-molecule development in oncology, inflammation, and gastrointestinal diseases. The partnership underscores Takeda’s push to fully integrate AI into its R&D engine, following prior deals like its Nabla Bio collaboration, as big pharma bets on AI to speed discovery, reduce costs, and target complex diseases more precisely. Iambic, a San Diego-based biotech with a growing pipeline of AI-discovered candidates, gains validation and funding to expand its platform amid surging interest in AI-driven drug design. (Link)
  4. Once Upon a Farm (NYSE: OFRM) raises $198M in NYSE IPO backed by Goldman Sachs and J.P. Morgan to expand organic children’s food business co-founded by Jennifer Garner
    The company’s public debut marks a major milestone for the organic children’s food brand, offering 11 million shares at $18 each. Founded by Cassandra Curtis and Ari Raz in 2015 and later joined by Jennifer Garner and John Foraker, Once Upon a Farm produces cold-pressed pouches, frozen meals, and oat bars made from responsibly sourced fruits and vegetables. The IPO strengthens its ability to meet rising consumer demand for clean, nutritious food products while amplifying its retail presence. Despite global supply challenges, the company aims to grow amid increasing momentum in the health-conscious food and beverage market. (Link)
  5. TenetHealthcare (NYSE: THC) receives $1.9B from CommonSpirit to regain full ownership of Conifer Health Solutions
    Under the agreement, CommonSpirit will pay Tenet Healthcare $1.9 billion in instalments over three years to sell its 23.8% equity stake in Conifer Health Solutions, Tenet’s revenue cycle management subsidiary. The transaction, retroactive to January 1, 2026, also includes a $540 million payment from Conifer to eliminate CommonSpirit’s capital account and finalize the stake redemption. Conifer will continue providing services to CommonSpirit through the end of 2026 while onboarding new clients. Tenet expects the move to strengthen its financial outlook, citing operational efficiency, revenue growth, and strategic alignment as key drivers for sustaining profitability and future expansion. (Link)
  6. PrimeGen US to merge with DT Cloud Star Acquisition Corporation (NASD: DTSQ) in a $1.5B business combination to accelerate stem cell and exosome therapy development
    The merger will position PrimeGen US for public market access and expanded funding to advance its regenerative medicine portfolio. The company’s lead program centers on its proprietary Triple Activated Mesenchymal Stem Cell (MSC) platform, being developed as a treatment for acute alcoholic hepatitis and other liver-related conditions. The deal, expected to close in the second half of 2026 pending shareholder and regulatory approvals, will support clinical progression, regulatory submissions, and potential commercialization. PrimeGen’s leadership emphasized that the transaction marks a major step toward scaling its two-decade foundation in stem cell innovation into transformative therapies for critical diseases. (Link)
  7. Eikon Therapeutics (NASD: EIKN) raises $381M in upsized Nasdaq IPO, the largest biotech listing since 2024, led by former Merck executive Roger Perlmutter
    Proceeds from the public offering will fund the clinical advancement of Eikon’s oncology pipeline, notably EIK1001, a toll-like receptor 7/8 agonist currently studied with Keytruda in melanoma and lung cancer. Additional programs include PARP1 inhibitors EIK1003 and EIK1004—targeting ovarian, breast, prostate, and pancreatic cancers—and EIK1005, a WRN helicase inhibitor in early-stage development for solid tumours. The company, founded in 2021, continues to build momentum on its immunotherapy and precision oncology strategy, backed by prior multimillion-dollar financing rounds that have supported rapid progression from preclinical research to multiple active phase 1/2 and 2/3 trials across critical cancer indications. (Link)
  8. SpyGlass Pharma (NASD: SGP) launches $150M Nasdaq IPO for advancing long-acting eye drug delivery innovation
    Funds from the IPO will advance SpyGlass Pharma’s lead candidate, the Bimatoprost Drug Pad-IOL System, a long-acting intraocular lens designed to deliver sustained treatment for glaucoma and ocular hypertension. The device, implanted during cataract surgery, provides years of drug release, potentially eliminating the need for daily eye drops. Proceeds will support two phase 3 clinical trials already underway and a potential commercial rollout upon successful results. Early studies demonstrated significant intraocular pressure reduction, affirming the platform’s promise. SpyGlass joins a wave of biotech companies reinvigorating the IPO market as investors renew interest in ophthalmic and drug-delivery innovations. (Link)
  9. Agomab Therapeutics (NASD: AGMB) raises $200M in Nasdaq IPO to support development of ALK5 inhibitors for fibrostenosing Crohn’s disease and pulmonary fibrosis
    Proceeds from the IPO will fund Agomab Therapeutics’ next-stage clinical programs, including a global phase 2b trial for ontunisertib, its leading oral ALK5 inhibitor targeting fibro stenosing Crohn’s disease. The company also plans to advance AGMB‑447, another ALK5 inhibitor in phase 1 studies for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, toward midstage development. Both candidates were obtained through Agomab’s 2021 acquisition of Origo Biopharma. The IPO proceeds will also bolster operational growth and global research capabilities as Agomab pursues fibrosis-modifying therapies aimed at halting disease progression in patients with chronic intestinal and respiratory conditions. (Link)
  10. Veradermics (NYSE: MANE) raises $256M in NYSE IPO with investment interest from Eli Lilly and Wellington Management to advance oral minoxidil hair regrowth therapy
    The Connecticut-based biotech’s IPO marks a strong debut, with shares more than doubling in their first trading session. Veradermics focuses on developing VDPHL01, an extended-release oral version of minoxidil, intended to overcome limitations of topical Rogaine. The funds will support phase 3 trials evaluating its efficacy in treating pattern hair loss. Eli Lilly expressed interest in acquiring up to 4.9% of issued shares, while Wellington Management indicated plans to invest up to $30 million. The company seeks to capture a major share of the expanding global hair loss market and lead innovation in convenient, effective hair restoration therapies. (Link)
  11. Kaiser Permanente and Renown Health complete joint venture to jointly own Hometown Health and expand integrated care access in northern Nevada
    The finalized partnership marks Kaiser Permanente’s entry into northern Nevada through the joint ownership of Hometown Health and collaboration with Renown Health’s established provider network. The venture aims to expand access to affordable, value-based care while integrating insurance coverage and clinical delivery across the region. Kaiser Permanente will open two new medical centers in 2026, adding to its existing Reno location, and plans to introduce its digital health platform and in-house pharmacy network by 2027. The collaboration combines Kaiser Permanente’s national capabilities with Renown’s strong local presence to enhance clinical outcomes and improve patient experience across northern Nevada. (Link)
  12. NuvemRx acquires 340B referral technology company par8o from R1 RCM, via its financial sponsors Parthenon Capital Partners and Rainmaker Strategic Capital to enhance specialty care coordination and expand pharmacy network capabilities
    The acquisition integrates par8o’s AI-powered referral capture technology with NuvemRx’s pharmacy management and third-party administration services, enabling covered entities to more efficiently manage 340B referrals and specialty prescriptions. The combined platform now supports over 800 covered entities and impacts more than 70 million patients nationwide. By automating up to 85% of the referral and eligibility process, the integration reduces administrative burdens, enhances compliance, and increases savings opportunities for safety-net providers. The move strengthens NuvemRx’s mission to simplify pharmacy operations, expand access to affordable care, and improve coordination across community health and specialty care networks.  (Link)
  13. MedRisk to acquire Horizon Casualty Services PPO Network business from Horizon Mutual Holdings, via its financial sponsors CVC Capital Partners and The Carlyle Group to expand managed care capabilities in workers’ compensation and auto casualty markets
    The acquisition enhances MedRisk’s reach and service offerings within the casualty claims industry by integrating Horizon Casualty Services’ PPO Network business. The move aligns with MedRisk’s strategy to deliver improved patient outcomes, streamlined claims management, and optimized payment solutions. The integration supports faster recovery times, smarter spending, and enhanced client value while reinforcing the company’s commitment to innovation and superior service across workers’ compensation and auto casualty markets. (Link)
  14. Coloplast discloses definitive agreement for Uramedica acquisition in Q1 2025/26 earnings Report
    Coloplast US signs definitive merger agreement to acquire all outstanding shares of Uromedica, a privately held US medtech company specializing in minimally invasive treatments for stress urinary incontinence, making Uromedica a wholly owned subsidiary. The acquisition is expected to close in February 2026, subject to customary closing conditions and requisite Uromedica shareholder approval. The move aligns with Coloplast’s strategy to bolster growth in urology through targeted additions, amid strong organic performance in the division. (Link)
  15. Konovo acquires Rare Patient Voice, via its financial sponsors Bain Capital Credit, Frazier Healthcare Partners, GV Investment Managers and Leavitt Equity Partners to expand access to 200,000+ patients and caregivers The acquisition strengthens Konovo’s healthcare intelligence platform by combining its data-driven capabilities and healthcare provider network with Rare Patient Voice’s extensive, community-driven database of patients and caregivers. This integration enhances the ability of researchers to access hard-to-reach populations and capture real-world patient insights across therapeutic areas. Konovo plans to scale these efforts globally while integrating patient and clinician perspectives into unified, technology-enabled research solutions. The partnership drives faster, more informed decision-making for healthcare organizations advancing innovation in complex diseases. (Link)
  16. RadNet (NASD: RDNT) acquires Northwest Radiology in Indiana, adding six imaging centers to expand Midwest footprint and enhance AI-powered diagnostic services
    The acquisition marks RadNet’s entry into Indiana, extending its national imaging network into the Midwest through six outpatient centers in the Indianapolis region. Northwest Radiology’s 18 radiologists will continue providing contracted professional services, ensuring continuity and maintaining strong local physician relationships. The integration will leverage RadNet’s advanced imaging technologies and AI-driven workflows to improve early disease detection and overall population health management. With the addition expected to generate approximately $18 million in annual revenue, RadNet aims to expand its proactive diagnostic approach while strengthening patient access to high-quality, cost-effective imaging care across Indiana. (Link)
  17. Nautic Partners completes growth investment in KabaFusion as Novo Holdings exits, supporting expansion of home infusion care services
    The partnership marks a new phase for KabaFusion, a national leader in home and alternate site infusion therapy. With operations covering 45 states through 33 pharmacies and 21 infusion suites, the company will leverage Nautic Partners’ investment to accelerate its growth and innovation initiatives. KabaFusion’s management team, which remains significant investors, will continue leading the organization to enhance patient access and clinical excellence. The investment underscores Nautic’s strategy of backing mission-driven healthcare providers delivering high-quality, patient-centered care, marking the exit of Novo Holdings following its successful tenure supporting KabaFusion’s nationwide expansion. (Link)
  18. Black Pearl Equities Announces Intention to Commence Tender Offer to Acquire Selectis Health, Inc.
    Black Pearl Equities, LLC announces intention to commence an all-cash tender offer to acquire all issued and outstanding shares of common stock of Selectis Health, Inc. (OTC: GBCS) at $4.00 per share. The proposed transaction is subject to negotiation and execution of definitive transaction documentation as well as customary closing conditions.  Selectis Health operates skilled nursing and transitional care facilities, and this unsolicited proposal follows the company’s recent asset sales and operational streamlining efforts. (Link)
  19. Vanderbilt Health acquires Tennova’s Clarksville Hospital, Tennova ER-Sango, and physician clinics from Community Health Systems to expand regional care network
    The acquisition expands Vanderbilt Health’s footprint across Middle Tennessee, adding the 270-bed Clarksville hospital, freestanding Sango ER, and multiple physician practices to its growing regional system. Vanderbilt Clarksville Hospital (VCH) will serve as a hub for expanded emergency, surgical, and specialty services, with new paediatric and adult programs planned in collaboration with Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital. The integration brings nearly 1,100 staff and over 30 physicians into Vanderbilt’s network, reinforcing its commitment to delivering high-quality, community-based care. The move marks Vanderbilt’s fourth regional hospital acquisition, extending its reach beyond Nashville and strengthening access to advanced health services statewide. (Link)

Venture and Other News  

  1. Midi Health closes $100M Series D in Goodwater Capital–led round with Foresite Capital, Serena Ventures, Advance Venture Partners, GV, Emerson Collective, SemperVirens and McKesson Ventures to scale national women’s health platform
    The virtual women’s health clinic now serves over 230,000 patients across 50 states through a network of 500 providers, treating 25,000 patients weekly. Founded in 2021 to address perimenopause and menopause care, the company is expanding into metabolic health, weight management, and musculoskeletal health. The platform uses AI-powered tools for chart analysis, scheduling, and care protocols while offering insurance-backed services reaching 45 million women. The company reports improved screening adherence rates and up to 13% lower total cost of care, with plans to expand Medicare and Medicaid coverage. (Link)
  2. Chamber raises $60M Series A led by Frist Cressey Ventures with General Catalyst, AlleyCorp, American Family Ventures, Company Ventures, Optum Ventures, Healthworx Ventures and Black Opal Ventures to scale cardiology value-based care
    The funding will accelerate Chamber’s mission to modernize cardiovascular care through value-based models that improve outcomes while lowering costs. The company’s platform integrates AI-driven insights to help cardiologists identify high-risk patients, close care gaps, and streamline workflows within existing systems. Partnering with both payers and practices, Chamber supports data-informed, proactive management of chronic heart disease. With more than 500 cardiologists across seven states already on its network, the company plans to expand its national footprint and strengthen partnerships with health plans. The investment underscores growing momentum behind value-based innovations addressing cardiovascular care delivery and patient experience. (Link)
  3. Alaffia Health raises $55M Series B led by Transformation Capital with FirstMark Capital, Tau Ventures, and Twine Ventures to expand AI-driven health plan operations
    The latest funding round accelerates Alaffia Health’s mission to reduce healthcare’s $570 billion in administrative waste through advanced, clinically informed AI for health plan claims management. The company’s platform combines physician oversight with agentic AI to enhance accuracy, speed reviews, and achieve measurable cost savings for national and regional payers. Delivering over 20% savings on high-cost claims and fivefold ROI, Alaffia plans to use the new capital for R&D, product innovation, and scaling adoption across the healthcare ecosystem. The investment supports ongoing efforts to create transparent, compliant, and efficient claims infrastructure that strengthens affordability and systemwide operational performance. (Link)
  4. Third Arc Bio raises $52M Series A extension led by Andreessen Horowitz with Omega Funds, Goldman Sachs Alternatives, BVF Partners, T. Rowe Price, Galapagos NV, AbbVie Ventures and Alderline Group to advance oncology and immunology pipeline
    The funding strengthens Third Arc Bio’s efforts to expand its multifunctional antibody programs in oncology and immunology. The capital will accelerate clinical development of the company’s lead asset, ARC101—a bispecific T cell engager targeting CLDN6 in advanced solid tumours—while advancing next-generation inflammation and immune modulation candidates toward human trials. Leveraging its ARCTag (Tethered Agonist) platform, Third Arc Bio aims to localize immune activity precisely at disease sites, enhancing efficacy and reducing systemic toxicity. Supported by a seasoned scientific team, the company continues to validate its platform approach to develop targeted biologics addressing major unmet medical needs. (Link)

Market Rumours

  1. Seed Health reportedly retains Centerview Partners to explore potential sale amid strong financial performance
    Seed Health has reportedly hired Centerview Partners to advise on a potential sale as it attracts strong interest from strategic and private equity buyers. Generating about $200 million in revenue and over $50 million in EBITDA, the company aims to leverage rising global demand for premium probiotics and wellness products.
  2. HHAeXchange reportedly explores sale with Centerview Partners advising; backed by Cressey & Company and Hg Capital
    The company, generating about $100 million in recurring revenue, develops software that streamlines compliance and operations for Medicaid homecare providers. Having expanded through acquisitions of Sandata Technologies, Generations Homecare Systems, and Cashe Software, it reflects growing investor interest in post‑acute healthcare tech consolidation during ongoing strategic review discussions.
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Healthcare News, Deals, and Investments Update Feb 2nd, 2026

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  1. Boston Scientific (NYSE: BSX) completes $600M acquisition of Nalu Medical to deepen neuromodulation portfolio for chronic pain The deal adds Nalu’s miniaturized, battery‑free implantable pulse generator for spinal cord and peripheral nerve stimulation, wirelessly powered by an external wearable disc and controlled via smartphone, with an expected 18‑year service life. Nalu’s system, cleared initially by the FDA in 2019 and later for whole‑body MRI use, delivers neuromodulation for chronic neuropathic pain with capabilities comparable to larger IPGs. Boston Scientific projects Nalu revenue above $60 million in 2025 with more than 25% growth in 2026 and expects the transaction to become increasingly accretive to earnings after 2027. (Link)
  2. Laborie acquires JADA System for $465M, backed by Patricia Industries to strengthen its global maternal health and postpartum haemorrhage care portfolio The acquisition brings an FDA-cleared device for rapid control of abnormal postpartum uterine bleeding into Laborie’s comprehensive obstetrics portfolio spanning antepartum through neonatal care. JADA uses low-level vacuum to stimulate natural uterine contractions, helping stop postpartum haemorrhage quickly and effectively and has already been used in more than 136,000 mothers across over 20 countries, supported by multiple safety and effectiveness studies. Laborie will onboard over 90 primarily commercial team members as part of a long-term strategy to back innovations that improve maternal outcomes and support sustainable growth. (Link)
  3. Halozyme Therapeutics acquires Surf Bio for up to $400M to expand hyperconcentration capabilities in subcutaneous drug delivery The transaction, closed in late December 2025 and announced January 28, 2026, includes $300M upfront (subject to adjustments) and up to $100M in development/regulatory milestones. Surf Bio’s platform enables high-concentration formulation of monoclonal antibodies, small molecules, and biologics using spray drying, a novel protective excipient, and polymer-based surface tension reduction for protein stability and low-friction delivery via auto-injector. Complementing Halozyme’s Enhanze hyaluronidase and recent Elektrofi/Hypercon acquisition, the technology extends IP into the mid-2040s, opens non-exclusive partnerships across autoimmune, neurology, nephrology, cardiovascular, nucleic acids, and ADCs, and supports rapid home-administration innovations, positioning Halozyme for durable royalty growth and next-generation delivery leadership. (Link)
  4. Illumina (NASD: LMN) acquires SomaLogic and assets from Standard BioTools for $350 million plus milestones to expand proteomics and multiomics leadership The acquisition strengthens Illumina’s position in the fast-growing proteomics market by integrating SomaLogic’s data-driven protein analysis technologies with Illumina’s next-generation sequencing (NGS) and multiomics solutions. Customers will gain access to enhanced tools, including SomaScan assays, DRAGEN software, and Illumina Connected Multiomics, enabling large-scale, flexible, and cost-efficient analysis of complex biological data. The combination supports faster drug discovery and deeper insights into human health. Illumina will maintain continuity for existing SomaLogic customers while expanding global access to the unified platform, investing in scalable growth and innovation across its sequencing and proteomics ecosystems. (Link)
  5. Sword Health acquires Kaia Health in $285M transaction backed by General Catalyst, Khosla Ventures, Transformation Capital and Founders Fund to scale AI-first MSK and pulmonary care in the U.S. and Germany The transaction adds Kaia’s digital musculoskeletal and pulmonary programs and its coveted position in Germany’s reimbursed digital health pathway, giving access to more than 70 million publicly insured individuals. Sword plans to migrate Kaia’s U.S. members to its own AI Care platform, unifying client relationships while extending a wider range of AI-enabled remote services that blend automation with clinician oversight. The combined organization aims use of AI care manager agents to automate administrative tasks and support more accessible virtual care. (Link)
  6. Premise Health acquires Crossover Health, via its financial sponsors OMERS Private Equity, Ares Management, and Ares Capital Corporation BDC creating unified advanced primary and occupational care company The combined organization will operate nearly 900 onsite, nearsite and virtual wellness centers, serving more than 400 employers, unions, tribes and health plans across the U.S. Its integrated model spans advanced primary care, occupational health, behavioral health, care management and navigation, physical therapy and chiropractic, with Premise’s pharmacy services adding chronic condition support and virtual dispensing. Both companies will continue developing alternative payment models, including a primary‑care‑centered health plan, with leadership from both executive teams retained to drive a shared vision of scalable, team‑based primary care that lowers costs and improves outcomes. (Link)
  7. Spring Health to acquire Alma in deal backed by Generation Investment Management, Tiger Global, Thoma Bravo, Cigna Ventures, Optum Ventures, Insight Partners, Tusk Venture Partners, Primary Venture Partners, and Sound Ventures to build AI-enabled lifelong mental health platform and expand nationwide care access The acquisition unites two major digital mental health innovators, combining Spring Health’s AI-driven precision care platform with Alma’s strong national payer relationships and provider infrastructure. The deal will integrate advanced technology, data-informed personalization, and in-network clinician enablement to improve patient outcomes while easing administrative burdens. Both leverage shared resources to advance quality, accessibility, and value across the evolving mental healthcare ecosystem. (Link)
  8. Resonetics to acquire Resolution Medical in a Carlyle, GTCR and Arcline Investment Management–backed deal to expand neuromodulation and structural heart device capabilities The acquisition will add Resolution Medical’s integrated design, engineering and cleanroom manufacturing capabilities for complex Class II and III devices, significantly deepening Resonetics’ presence in neuromodulation, structural heart and interventional cardiology markets. More than 240 employees, including over 100 engineers, will join Resonetics, enabling it to support customers from early product design and NPI through high‑volume production on a larger global footprint. Both organizations emphasize continuity for existing customers while positioning the combined company as a more comprehensive development and manufacturing partner across the full medical device lifecycle. (Link)
  9. Kodiak Solutions acquires BESLER, via its financial sponsor TPG to strengthen revenue recovery and reimbursement capabilities The acquisition brings BESLER’s revenue integrity tools, including Transfer DRG underpayment detection software and managed reimbursement services, onto Kodiak’s existing analytics and automation platform for hospitals and medical practices. Kodiak aims to give health system CFOs deeper, more actionable insight into net revenue, benchmarking, and reimbursement performance while simplifying complex business office workflows. BESLER’s leadership and subject-matter experts, including former CEO Jonathan Besler, are joining Kodiak to help support more than 2,300 hospitals and 350,000 physicians, while founder Philip Besler retires after four decades building the firm. (Link)
  10. Nuwellis (NASD: NUWE) to acquire Rendiatech to expand real-time kidney function monitoring and advance cardiorenal care portfolio The acquisition advances Nuwellis’ move beyond fluid management into continuous renal diagnostics, enhancing its precision cardiorenal care capabilities. Rendiatech’s Clarity™ system provides automated, continuous urine-output monitoring, offering improved accuracy and efficiency over manual methods. The integration of this technology will support earlier kidney stress detection and data-driven clinical decisions in critical care. Nuwellis plans to use its existing commercial and clinical infrastructure to bring Rendiatech’s innovation to market without new sales channels. The transaction, approved by both companies’ boards, marks a key milestone in establishing a more comprehensive cardiorenal platform once customary closing conditions are met. (Link)
  11. Wisp acquires TBD Health to build women-focused national PrEP and sexual health enterprise and hybrid care platform The deal adds a 50‑state sexual health and diagnostics infrastructure, including routine STI/HIV testing, virtual clinical support and deep partnerships with hospital systems and public health organizations. TBD Health’s TelePrEP and diagnostics capabilities, already integrated with partners like Mount Sinai Health System, San Francisco AIDS Foundation and Planned Parenthood Direct, will underpin Wisp’s move beyond direct‑to‑consumer into enterprise and hybrid care models. Together, the companies plan to close major gaps in preventive sexual health—particularly for women—by offering turnkey PrEP and testing solutions that plug into existing clinical workflows and broaden access across consumer, employer and public health channels. (Link)
  12. NOCD acquires Rebound Health, leveraging Noto AI platform to scale virtual OCD and PTSD specialty care The combined organization will expand virtual, evidence-based therapy for OCD and trauma-related disorders nationwide using Noto, an AI-powered infrastructure that supports payer operations, member identification, enrolment, and clinical workflows. NOCD contributes a large, W‑2-employed therapist network delivering more than 1 million OCD sessions annually, supported by tools like AI-assisted notetaking, outcomes tracking, and peer support between visits. Clinical studies of NOCD’s virtual exposure and response prevention model show meaningful symptom reductions for children and teens, while peer interventions increase engagement, and Noto will now also be used to scale Rebound’s PTSD and complex PTSD services across the U.S. (Link)
  13. Premier Radiology Services to acquire National Radiology Solutions (NRAD) to strengthen nationwide teleradiology network and clinical coverage The merger combines two established teleradiology providers to create a stronger national network with enhanced clinical coverage and streamlined operations. By integrating technological infrastructure, administrative systems, and subspecialty expertise, the unified organization will deliver faster, more accurate diagnostic interpretations. NRAD’s team, including founder Robb Kolb, will join the combined company to ensure seamless service for existing clients. The partnership places emphasis on physician autonomy, innovation, and expanding access to high-quality radiology services. Together, the organizations aim to advance patient care standards and improve efficiency for outpatient healthcare providers across the United States. (Link)
  14. Choice Health at Home to acquire Cy-Fair Health Care and Alliant, via its financial sponsor Trive Capital to expand home health and hospice services across key Southwestern markets The acquisition builds on Choice Health at Home’s strategy to enhance integrated home-based care across key Southwestern markets. Both Cy-Fair Health Care in Texas and Alliant in Colorado bring strong clinical reputations and deep community roots, which will now be supported by Choice Health’s broader operational infrastructure and resources. The move strengthens continuity of care for patients and families, with existing staff retained and services uninterrupted. By combining expertise, technology, and compassionate clinical teams, the expanded organization will improve home health and hospice delivery while advancing Choice Health’s mission to provide accessible, patient-centered care across its seven-state network. (Link)
  15. ncgCARE to acquire Broadstep of North Carolina through Carolina Outreach to expand statewide behavioral health services The acquisition broadens ncgCARE’s community-based behavioral health network across eastern and southeastern North Carolina, reinforcing its commitment to accessible, high-quality mental health and substance use care. Broadstep’s existing staff, leadership, and programs will remain in place, ensuring continuity for patients and families. By integrating Broadstep’s operations into Carolina Outreach, ncgCARE will provide expanded operational, clinical, and compliance support to strengthen long-term sustainability and service delivery. The partnership emphasizes stability, quality, and local engagement while enhancing capacity to meet growing behavioral health needs in communities across Gastonia, Lumberton, Jacksonville, Supply, and Wilmington, North Carolina. (Link)

Venture and Other News  

  1. Vaxcyte prices $550M public offering at $50 per share to fund pneumococcal and infectious disease vaccine pipeline The offering includes 11,000,000 shares with a 30-day underwriter option for up to 1,650,000 additional shares, expecting gross proceeds of $550M (before discounts/expenses), closing February 2, 2026. Proceeds will support clinical advancement of lead next-generation pneumococcal conjugate vaccine VAX-31 (Phase 3 adult/Phase 2 infant), VAX-24, plus prophylactic programs for Group A Strep (VAX-A1) and Shigella (VAX-GI). Leveraging its XpressCF cell-free protein synthesis platform for high-fidelity conjugates, Vaxcyte aims to address serious bacterial diseases with broader, more effective immunizations, accelerating late-stage trials, manufacturing scale-up, and progress toward preventing unmet infectious threats. (Link)
  2. Veradermics and Eikon Therapeutics file for IPOs targeting up to $181M and $318M amid biotech market reopening Veradermics (NYSE: MANE) seeks approximately $181M to advance Phase III VDPHL01 (extended-release oral minoxidil) for pattern hair loss in men and women, supporting approval, commercialization, physician education, brand awareness, supply chain, and infrastructure in dermatology. Eikon Therapeutics (Nasdaq: EIKN), led by former Merck executive Roger Perlmutter, targets up to $318M (with overallotment) primarily for clinical progression of TLR7/8 agonists EIK1001 (melanoma) and EIK1003 (non-small cell lung cancer), plus selective PARP1 inhibitors and WRN helicase assets in challenging oncology indications. The January 2026 filings signal renewed investor confidence post-2025 slowdown, enabling late-stage advancement, pipeline expansion, and public-market capitalization for these high-potential biotechs. (Link)
  3. Cellares raises $257M in Series D round led by Eclipse and BlackRock with participation from T. Rowe Price, Gates Frontier, Duquesne Family Office, Intuitive Ventures, DC Global Ventures and DFJ Growth to scale global cell therapy manufacturing The new funding supports Cellares’ global expansion as it prepares for commercial-scale cell therapy production by 2027. The company will build new manufacturing facilities in the Netherlands and Japan, complementing sites in New Jersey and South San Francisco. Its automated “Cell Shuttle” system enables end-to-end cell therapy production, addressing industry bottlenecks through scalable, high-tech infrastructure. With increasing demand and regulatory validation, Cellares is positioning itself as a leading integrated developer and manufacturer supporting global biopharma partners, including Bristol Myers Squibb. The financing advances its mission to industrialize cell therapy and move toward a public listing. (Link)
  4. Tenpoint Therapeutics raises $235M from Janus Henderson, EQT Nexus, Hillhouse, British Business Bank, EQT Life Sciences, Sofinnova Partners, F-Prime, Eight Roads, Qiming Venture Partners USA, AdBio, Wille, and Hercules Capital to accelerate commercialization of YUVEZZI™ The financing strengthens Tenpoint Therapeutics’ position for the commercial launch of YUVEZZI™, the first FDA-approved dual-agent, once-daily eye drop for presbyopia. The funding includes an $85 million Series B round and a $150 million credit facility, providing the capital needed to scale manufacturing, distribution, and marketing. Tenpoint aims to meet the needs of millions affected by age-related vision decline while delivering a differentiated treatment backed by strong clinical data and safety performance. The company’s leadership is focused on driving YUVEZZI™’s successful rollout and expanding access to innovative ophthalmic solutions. (Link)
  5. Breakthru Medicine emerges from stealth with $60M Series A financing to advance disruptive cancer therapeutics The funding, supported by investors including Dave Morehead (Baylor University endowment), Fred Eshelman (Eshelman Ventures), and Mark Gergen, enables Breakthru Medicine to build its tumor-agnostic platform targeting hard-to-drug cancers through small molecules, next-generation antibody-drug conjugate payloads, and a novel molecular glue approach. The company prioritizes patient-first development by rigorously selecting breakthrough candidates early and eliminating non-viable programs. The capital accelerates pipeline progression and platform expansion to redefine therapeutic possibilities for oncology indications. (Link)
  6. TRexBio raises $50M from Janus Henderson Investors, Alexandria Venture Investments, Avego BioScience Capital, Eli Lilly, Johnson & Johnson Innovation JJDC, Pfizer Ventures and SV Health Investors to advance tissue-targeted Treg immunology pipeline The financing supports TRexBio’s ongoing clinical and preclinical programs focused on tissue-specific regulatory T cell therapies for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.. Leveraging its Deep Biology Platform, TRexBio maps tissue Treg behavior to uncover novel therapeutic targets. The investment underscores confidence in the company’s precision immunoregulatory approach aimed at delivering more effective, durable treatments for diseases such as atopic dermatitis and other inflammatory disorders. (Link)
  7. Prenosis secures $20M Series A led by PACE Healthcare Capital with UC Investments, UCI Health Ventures, Labcorp Venture Fund, GHIC, Illinois DCEO, and Carle Health, plus $20M BARDA contract to advance AI diagnostics and therapeutics The combined $40 million will drive Prenosis’ development of biology-based, AI-powered diagnostic and therapeutic tools for critical care conditions such as sepsis, ARDS, and acute kidney injury. The BARDA-funded program will include a pivotal clinical trial evaluating an AI-enabled steroid companion diagnostic for severe respiratory infections. These initiatives strengthen Prenosis’ mission to personalize treatment by combining advanced diagnostics with targeted therapeutics, marking a major step in improving outcomes for critically ill patients through precision care. (Link)
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Q4 2025 Behavioral Health M&A and Investment Quarterly Newsletter

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Q4 2025 Highlights:
• Deal volume hit multi-year highs for the full year—but slowed sharply in Q4 as buyers turned cautious.
• Private capital is still flowing—but selectively, with outpatient mental health and autism platforms pulling ahead while safety-net providers fall further behind.
• Facility closures accelerated nationwide, cutting inpatient and residential capacity as Medicaid and federal funding tightened.
• Policy volatility is now an operating risk—January’s SAMHSA grant whiplash froze planning and investment for community providers.
• Telehealth survived the rollback (for behavioral health), quietly reinforcing its role as core infrastructure.
• Workforce shortages and burnout are worsening, even as demand keeps rising.

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Healthcare News, Deals, and Investments Update Jan 26th, 2026

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  1. Winter Storm Fern Cripples Half the Country This Weekend
    • CNBC: $100B expected economic loss and damages from storm (Link) 
    • CNBC: Transportation Sec. Duffy says air travel will return to normal by Wednesday (Link) 
    • The Weather Channel: Winter Storm Fern Turns Deadly In Louisiana, Outages For Hundreds Of Thousands Vulnerable To Ice, Snow (Link) 
    • National Public Radio: As the winter storm rages, here’s what to know in your state(Link)
  2. GSK (NYSE:GSK) pays $2.2B to acquire Rapt Therapeutics (NASD:RAPT) and Food Allergy Antibody Ozureprubart GSK is acquiring Rapt Therapeutics for $58 per share, gaining global (ex‑China) rights to ozureprubart, an extended‑half‑life anti‑IgE antibody being studied as a 12‑weekly prophylactic treatment for food allergies. Unlike currently approved IgE inhibitors that require injections every 2–4 weeks, ozureprubart aims to offer sustained protection with less frequent dosing while targeting the same validated pathway as Xolair. The deal follows Rapt’s strategic pivot away from its CCR4 inhibitor program after clinical setbacks and positions ozureprubart for phase 2 readout in 2027 and a planned phase 3 program, backed by GSK’s global development and commercialization infrastructure. (Link)
  3. BioCryst (NASD: BCRX) acquires Astria Therapeutics (NASD:ATXS) in $700M deal to Build Comprehensive Hereditary Angioedema Treatment Platform The transaction adds Navenibart, a long-acting plasma kallikrein inhibitor in Phase 3, which is being developed as a prophylactic HAE treatment with every‑three or every‑six month dosing to improve patient convenience and attack control. BioCryst now pairs its existing oral therapy ORLADEYO with a potential injectable option to give clinicians more flexibility in tailoring care. The deal also brings STAR0310, an early atopic dermatitis program for which strategic options will be explored, and augments BioCryst’s leadership with Astria’s former CEO joining the board and a senior development leader taking charge of technical operations. (Link)
  4. Georgia ProtonCare Center, Inc. Files Chapter 11 to Facilitate Competitive Sale Process and Enters Into Asset Purchase Agreement With Emory Healthcare Georgia ProtonCare Center (GPCC), owner of Georgia’s only proton therapy cancer treatment facility in Midtown Atlanta, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy to facilitate a court-supervised sale process and ensure uninterrupted patient care. The company has signed an asset purchase agreement with Emory Healthcare (via Emory University Hospital Midtown) as the stalking horse bidder to acquire substantially all assets, with Emory clinicians already providing daily treatment at the center. GPCC aims to complete the competitive sale by Q2 2026, prioritizing seamless continuation of precision proton therapy services for cancer patients while operations continue as usual under court-approved funding. (Link)
  5. KidsChoice Announces Majority Investment from Aquitaine Capital to Support Growth and Clinical Excellence KidsChoice, an Oklahoma-based provider of clinic-centered autism and pediatric therapy services including ABA, speech, and occupational therapy, has secured a majority investment from women-owned private equity firm Aquitaine Capital to fuel expansion, enhance clinical excellence, and strengthen infrastructure. The partnership supports thoughtful growth through new clinic openings, strategic M&A, and complementary offerings while prioritizing individualized, outcomes-driven care for children and families. (Link)
  6. Community Health Systems Sells Crestwood Medical Center to Huntsville Hospital Health System in $450M Deal The transaction will transfer Crestwood Medical Center, a 180‑bed acute care hospital in Huntsville, Alabama, along with a freestanding emergency department in Harvest and multiple clinics and outpatient assets, to a regional nonprofit operator. Crestwood’s roughly 1,000 employees will continue normal operations with no planned changes to services or medical staff privileges during the transition. Huntsville Hospital Health System, already a major 14‑hospital network across northern Alabama and southern Tennessee, views the deal as a way to better coordinate local care as Huntsville’s population rapidly grows, while the seller continues its strategy of divesting assets to strengthen its financial position. (Link)
  7. BioStem Technologies (OTC: BSEM) and BioTissue sign Up to $40M Surgical and Wound Care Asset DealThe transaction adds BioTissue’s Neox and Clarix placental- and umbilical‑tissue allograft product lines, along with a national direct and independent sales force and key group purchasing organization contracts, giving BioStem an immediate presence in hospital inpatient and outpatient settings. The acquired surgical and wound care assets, which generated about $29 million in 2025 sales, broaden BioStem’s chronic and acute wound care portfolio and create entry into high‑value segments such as burns and soft‑tissue repair. Deal terms include an upfront $15 million cash payment plus up to $25 million in potential regulatory and commercial milestone payments. (Link)
  8. Harmony Healthcare IT acquires Blue Elm, via its financial sponsor Novacap to build Comprehensive MEDITECH Data Lifecycle Platform Harmony Healthcare IT has acquired Blue Elm to offer MEDITECH hospitals a single, end-to-end partner for data extraction, conversion, migration, archiving, optimization, and real-time access across all MEDITECH versions. The combined capabilities help hospitals retire costly legacy systems, strengthen data integrity, and improve accessibility as they upgrade or transition EHR platforms. By unifying services under one organization and relying on U.S.-based resources instead of offshore outsourcing, the company aims to shorten complex project timelines, enhance security and quality, and better support hospitals under pressure to improve care quality while reducing operating costs. (Link)
  9. PhaseWell Research acquires Bio Behavioral Health Partner, via its financial sponsor Shore Capital Partners to expand Community-Based Neuropsychiatric Clinical Trials The acquisition will strengthen PhaseWell’s national network of community clinical research sites focused on neurologic and psychiatric disorders. The collaboration aims to broaden patient access to neuropsychiatric trials by leveraging BBH’s experience in community-based studies and PhaseWell’s nationwide platform and infrastructure. Together, the organizations plan to support sponsors with reliable patient enrolment, strong operational execution, and high-quality data while advancing next-generation CNS therapeutics across complex therapeutic areas, including oncology, cardiovascular/metabolic conditions, and dermatology. (Link)
  10. Pair Team acquires Town Square to Advance AI-Enabled Community Care for Medicare and Medicaid Beneficiaries The acquisition combines an AI-driven medical group with a social care coordination platform to better integrate clinical, behavioral, and social services for underserved populations. Technology will orchestrate complex, cross-setting care tasks so human teams can concentrate on clinical decisions, hands-on support, and relationships with patients and local organizations. Town Square’s founder will lead network expansion and community partnerships within the new structure, which emphasizes responsible AI, robust outcomes measurement, and investment in community-based infrastructure to extend whole-person care to people historically excluded from the healthcare system. (Link)
  11. Aspen Surgical expands Infection Prevention Portfolio with acquisition of Ruhof Healthcare, via its financial sponsors Linden and Audax Private Equity The buyer is adding enzymatic detergents, cleaning verification tools, and automated and manual instrument and endoscope reprocessing solutions to deepen its presence in operating rooms, sterile processing, and endoscopy settings. Ruhof’s portfolio, including Endozime detergents, ScopeValet single-use consumables, CleanRead ATP contamination monitoring, and instrument refurbishment services, will bolster the SPD360 Performance Solutions platform and complement existing brands such as Symmetry, Bookwalter, and Precept. The transaction covers all Ruhof operations, brands, and product lines, with integration set to begin immediately and no near-term disruption expected for customers, suppliers, or employees. (Link)
  12. TridentCare acquires DispatchHealth Imaging Unit to Grow National Portable Diagnostics Network The acquisition adds a multistate mobile X‑ray and ultrasound operation that serves patients at home, in post‑acute facilities, and in correctional settings, expanding TridentCare’s reach and capacity. By integrating these imaging teams and customers into its national infrastructure, TridentCare aims to speed response times, improve scheduling flexibility, and deliver more consistent service quality for clinicians and patients. DispatchHealth will continue focusing on providing complex care in the home and will coordinate imaging through technology and partnerships so patients and providers experience seamless, integrated services. (Link)
  13. Morris & Dickson Completes Transaction to Acquire Prodigy Health Morris & Dickson (M&D), the nation’s largest independent wholesale and specialty pharmaceutical distributor, has completed its acquisition of Prodigy Health, a specialty pharmaceutical distribution and services company focused on plasma-derived therapies. The transaction expands M&D’s specialty portfolio, broadens access to plasma therapies for hospitals, clinics, infusion centers, and alternative care sites nationwide, and strengthens its independent platform for manufacturers through a compliance-first approach. (Link)
  14. Main Post Partners and HomeWell Leadership acquire HomeWell Franchising to Accelerate Senior In‑Home Care Growth The deal pairs a national non‑medical home care franchisor with a private equity firm experienced in franchising and consumer service brands, aiming to fuel the next phase of expansion. The partners emphasize a “partnership, not ownership” philosophy, focusing on close collaboration with franchisees and caregivers to scale services while preserving mission and culture. Building on several years of rapid revenue growth and record franchise development, the company plans to invest in tools, resources, and support that help local agencies grow and better serve seniors and homebound individuals in their communities. (Link)

Venture and Other News  

  1. Zarminali Paediatrics raises $110M in Series A funding led by Healthier Capital, with participation from General Catalyst, K2 HealthVentures, and Boston Children’s Hospital to expand integrated paediatric care footprint The company will use the new capital to scale its proprietary tech platform, enter additional states and open de novo clinics while continuing to acquire established paediatric groups. Its model centers on a single branded multispecialty practice that co-locates clinics with urgent care, directly employing both paediatricians and specialists to coordinate care across the full continuum outside the hospital. Since launching in 2024, Zarminali has rapidly expanded to 28 clinics in eight states and plans at least 15 new sites in 2026, while laying groundwork for future value-based arrangements and building analytics to track clinician performance and patient outcomes. (Link)
  2. Mendra launches with $82M Series A co-led by OrbiMed, 8VC, and 5AM Ventures, with participation from Lux Capital and Wing VC to advance AI-driven rare disease therapeutics Mendra will use the oversubscribed financing to acquire and develop an initial portfolio of high-potential rare disease assets while applying AI to speed patient identification, trial enrollment and global market access. The company is built to modernize how rare disease medicines are developed and commercialized so they reach underserved patients more efficiently worldwide. A veteran leadership team with deep experience in rare disease drug development, global commercialization and AI—drawn from organizations such as BioMarin, Modis Therapeutics, Escient Pharmaceuticals, Palantir and Bayer—will guide strategy across asset selection, clinical execution and business development. (Link)
  3. AnswersNow raises $40M in Series B funding led by HealthQuest Capital, with participation from Left Lane Capital and Owl Ventures to Scale AI-Enabled Virtual Autism Therapy The company will use the new capital to expand its platform, double clinical headcount, add senior leaders and launch new service lines to meet surging demand for autism support. Its AI-driven model pairs families across the U.S. with Master’s- and PhD-level BCBAs for targeted, parent-mediated virtual ABA, cutting weekly therapy time from 30+ hours to about 4–5 while sustaining strong clinical gains. Outcomes data show high family-reported improvements, substantial cost savings for payors and a consistently strong satisfaction score, with forthcoming research in 2026 intended to further validate clinical and economic impact. (Link)
  4. BrightInsight secures $13M investment from Eclipse, General Catalyst, Insight Partners, Mayo Clinic and New Leaf Venture Partners to scale its AI-enabled medication adherence platform The company will deploy the capital to expand its AI-enabled persistence and adherence solutions, including a co-developed Patient App used across multiple diseases and therapies worldwide. By leveraging real-world data and advanced analytics, the platform targets chronically low adherence rates, aiming to predict churn and trigger personalized interventions that keep patients on therapy. BrightInsight reports strong patient engagement and one-year retention across programs and plans to deepen its product roadmap, broaden disease and biopharma partnerships, and add support for caregivers and nurse educators to ease pressure on health systems. (Link)
  5. McKinsey & Co Released their Annual Healthcare Outlook Report. To remain competitive in 2026 and beyond, healthcare leaders must improve performance, embrace technology and rethink traditional care models (Link)
  6. IPO Watchlist
    • Once Upon a Farm — Organic children’s food company co-founded by Jennifer Garner, is targeting a valuation of up to $764.4 million in its upcoming U.S. IPO on the NYSE under the ticker OFRM. (Link)
    • Kallyope — New York City-based biotechnology company specializing in novel therapeutics targeting the gut-brain axis and neural circuits.
    • Kardium — Vancouver area based medical device company focused on cardiac electrophysiology solutions; develops advanced catheter-based systems for the diagnosis and minimally invasive treatment of atrial fibrillation.
    • Tenpoint Therapeutics — London, UK-headquartered (with U.S. operations in Seattle and Irvine) ophthalmic biotechnology company dedicated to age-related vision restoration therapies.
    • Vensure Employer Solutions — Chandler, AZ -based professional employer organization (PEO) and provider of human capital management (HCM) technology serving the healthcare and broader employer ecosystem.
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Healthcare News, Deals, and Investments Update Jan 20th, 2026

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Healthcare Weekly News and Deals – January 20th, 2026

  1. Takeaways from JPM 44th Annual Healthcare Conference 2026 The J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference 2026 reflected a turn toward cautious yet genuineoptimism, fueled by policy tailwinds, AI’s proven impacts, and robust activity in strategiccollaborations and consolidations. AI emerged as a core driver, transitioning from hype tooperational ROI via agentic systems, closed-loop workflows, and ambient tools that enhancediscovery, delivery, and administrative efficiency. Federal efforts, including outreach on quality andaccess alongside high-impact innovation programs, underscore a proactive stance on reducingbarriers and accelerating progress. Cross-border dynamics and emerging modalities added to theforward-looking tone, signaling diversified growth opportunities. The event highlightedhealthcare’s trajectory for AI-enabled reinvention, with widespread alignment on prioritizingefficiency, transparency, execution, and adaptive strategies to navigate global and regulatory shifts.
    ● PitchBook Analyst Note: Takeaways from the J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference (Link)
  2. OpenAI acquires Torch in ~$100M deal to accelerate ChatGPT Health OpenAI bought healthcare startup Torch, which aggregates users’ lab results, medications, visit notes, wearable data and consumer test reports into a unified health record, and will fold its team into efforts to expand ChatGPT Health. The year‑old Torch platform was built as a “medical memory” to unify fragmented records into a single context layer for AI. The acquisition follows OpenAI’s launch of ChatGPT Health, which links the chatbot to medical records and wellness apps for more personalized responses. OpenAI reports that about one in four of ChatGPT’s 800 million regular users asks at least one healthcare‑related question each week. (Link)
  3. Boston Scientific (NYSE: BSX) to acquire Penumbra (NYSE: PEN) in $14.5B cash-and-stock deal to expand vascular and neurovascular portfolio The transaction will be paid approximately 73% in cash and 27% in Boston Scientific stock, giving Penumbra shareholders the option of cash or shares subject to proration. Penumbra brings a portfolio that includes Lightning Bolt and Lightning Flash computer-assisted vacuum thrombectomy systems, peripheral embolization solutions, and neurovascular devices for stroke, aneurysms and other complex vascular conditions. Boston Scientific plans to fund the roughly $11 billion cash component with a mix of cash on hand and new debt and currently expects the deal to be modestly dilutive to adjusted earnings per share in the first full year after closing, turning neutral to accretive thereafter. (Link)
  4. Smith+Nephew (NYSE: SNN) to acquire Integrity Orthopaedics in Deal Worth up to $450M to Strengthen Rotator Cuff Portfolio The transaction includes an upfront $225 million cash payment plus up to $225 million in performance-based milestones over five years and is expected to close this month. Integrity Orthopaedics’ Tendon Seam rotator cuff repair system is designed with patented micro-anchors, individually locked stitches and an integrated implantation system to reduce re-tear rates and shorten procedures compared with traditional techniques, which can have structural failure rates of 20–40%. The acquisition supports Smith+Nephew’s RISE 2026 strategy and builds on prior shoulder investments, including the Regeneten bioinductive implant, Q-Fix Knotless All-Suture Anchor and the Aetos Shoulder System. (Link)
  5. Modella AI acquired by AstraZeneca (LON: AZN) to scale AI-driven oncology R&D globally The acquisition expands a multi-year collaboration by embedding Modella AI’s multimodal foundation models and agentic AI platform directly into AstraZeneca’s oncology research and development ecosystem. Modella AI’s technology, built at the intersection of pathology, clinical data and advanced generative AI, will be used to accelerate clinical development, enhance biomarker discovery and support data‑driven decision-making across AstraZeneca’s global oncology portfolio. AstraZeneca plans to deploy these AI agents and pathology foundation models to increase automation, scalability and consistency in data‑intensive workflows and to support the development of targeted therapeutics and companion diagnostics. (Link)
  6. Boston Scientific (NYSE: BSX) acquires Valencia Technologies to add eCoin ITNS device to urology portfolio The eCoin implantable tibial nerve stimulation system, placed under the skin near the ankle, is intended for urge urinary incontinence patients who do not tolerate or sufficiently benefit from conservative therapies, and received FDA clearance in 2022. In a pivotal study, 68% of treated patients achieved at least a 50% reduction in UUI episodes, underscoring its potential clinical impact. The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2026, positioning Boston Scientific alongside Medtronic’s Altaviva device in the growing neuromodulation market for overactive bladder–related symptoms as the company continues to expand its pelvic health and neurology device franchises. (Link)
  7. Abbott (NYSE: ABT) and AtaCor collaborate on Next-Generation Extravascular ICD System The partners are combining an investigational parasternal extravascular defibrillation lead (Atala) with a minimally invasive implantable defibrillator platform intended to keep hardware outside the heart and vasculature, aiming to avoid complications such as vascular injury, lead fracture and infections. The Atala lead is placed through a rib space beside the sternum and is designed both to deliver defibrillation shocks and to direct pacing energy efficiently toward the heart. A pivotal ALARION EV Investigational Device Exemption study is planned for 2026 to evaluate the system as a potential new option for patients at high risk of life‑threatening arrhythmias. (Link)
  8. Hippocratic AI acquires Grove AI to build end-to-end agentic AI platform for biopharma and medtech The acquisition adds Grove AI’s agentic platform, which has supported over 10 million patient interactions and powered more than 50 phase 2 and 3 clinical trials, into Hippocratic AI’s life sciences division focused on regulated biopharma and MedTech use cases. Grove’s “Grace” agent and participant relationship management tools will be used to speed recruitment, improve screening and streamline trial operations across top global pharma partners, while Hippocratic extends agents into commercial, direct‑to‑patient and HCP engagement. The company has appointed Ahad Wahid, M.D., as president of life sciences and formed a senior advisory council to ensure safety, compliance and large‑scale deployment. (Link)
  9. Agentis Longevity acquires Arete Wellness, via its financial sponsor Shore Capital Partners to build national precision longevity and recovery platform The combined company will offer personalized, preventative programs that integrate advanced diagnostics, hormone and peptide therapies, IV recovery, performance medicine and lifestyle-focused support for high-performing clients such as professional athletes, entertainers and executives. Arete contributes a concierge recovery model delivered by a team of more than 45 traveling nurses and medical professionals, while Agentis brings precision-based longevity medicine focused on individualized, science-backed care. Leadership from both organizations position the deal as a way to expand geographic reach, increase accessibility and set a new standard for evidence-based performance longevity without disclosing financial terms. (Link)
  10. Apollo Care acquires eStrat, via its financial sponsor Flexpoint Ford to expand copay and patient access capabilities Apollo Care is adding eStrat’s copay program design and execution expertise to strengthen its technology-driven patient access, affordability and analytics platform. The combined offering aims to enable faster copay program launches, tighter integration between operations and analytics, and more seamless execution for pharmaceutical manufacturers across multiple therapeutic areas. Key eStrat team members are joining Apollo Care to ensure continuity for existing clients, with co-founder Trond Waerness stepping into a leadership role focused on patient affordability strategy. The companies say the deal will help manufacturers reduce complexity while improving access and affordability for patients. (Link)
  11. Zelis acquires Rivet, via its financial sponsors Bain Capital, Parthenon Capital Partners, Valspring Capital, BPEA Private Equity, Edison Partners, Bain Capital Ventures, Norwest, Ergo Partners, HarbourVest Partners and Mubadala Investment Company, to expand AI‑enabled revenue cycle analytics for healthcare payers and providers The deal adds Rivet’s analytics platform to Zelis’ existing payments technology, giving providers deeper visibility into claim payment patterns and denial trends via insight‑rich dashboards and workflow tools. By reducing transactional back‑and‑forth, payers can shift focus to collaborative efforts that improve first‑time claim success and cut down on costly rework. Executives from both companies frame the combination as a way to address mounting margin pressure, rising administrative costs and regulatory complexity while pushing the industry toward a more transparent, efficient financial experience for providers, payers and patients. (Link)
  12. Genomate Health acquires Oncompass Medicine to build integrated precision oncology platform in Europe The deal gives Genomate Health a long-standing European base with established logistics, clinical operations and market presence in personalized oncology, particularly in Hungary and across Europe. Oncompass, founded in 2003, brings two decades of experience in companion diagnostics and next-generation sequencing-based tumour profiling in routine clinical care. Scientific and clinical leadership will be driven by Genomate Health Founder and CSO Istvan Petak, who will also serve as Managing Director of Oncompass Medicine, as the combined organization deploys Genomate’s computational reasoning technology to turn complex molecular data into scalable, actionable treatment decisions for cancer patients worldwide. (Link)
  13. Behavioral Framework partners with Autism ETC, backed by Renovus Capital Partners, to expand autism care platform Autism ETC, which operates five ABA therapy and autism diagnostic clinics in Tennessee and Arizona, will join Behavioral Framework while retaining its leadership team and clinical staff to ensure continuity for families and employees. The combination is intended to extend high-quality, individualized autism services across both center-based and home-based models in the Southeast and beyond, supported by Behavioral Framework’s operational infrastructure, technology and growth resources. Both organizations emphasize preserving Autism ETC’s culture and clinical integrity while scaling access and investing in clinician development as part of Behavioral Framework’s broader growth strategy. (Link)
  14. EnableComp acquires Health Resources Optimization via its financial sponsors Primus Capital and Welsh, Carson, Anderson & Stowe to expand complex revenue recovery for hospitals The acquisition brings H/ROI’s clinical denials and post‑bill DRG validation expertise under EnableComp, strengthening its focus on complex claims, DRG downgrades and medical‑necessity denials. The combined organization aims to capture more hidden revenue for providers facing intense margin pressure and payer scrutiny by pairing seasoned clinical judgment with an AI‑driven revenue cycle platform. Serving over 1,000 hospitals and recovering $3 billion annually, EnableComp is integrating H/ROI to deliver deeper clinical insights, earlier underpayment detection and faster resolution of intricate denials so health systems can safeguard margins and improve financial stability while maintaining patient care. (Link)
  15. Solis Mammography acquires Women’s Center for Radiology, via its financial sponsors Madison Dearborn Partners and TowerBrook Capital Partners to expand Florida breast imaging footprint The deal adds two Orlando centers to Solis Mammography’s existing nine Florida locations in Gainesville, Fort Lauderdale and Miami, marking the company’s entry into the Orlando market and broadening its statewide presence in specialized breast health services. The combined organization aims to deliver comfortable, convenient and compassionate breast imaging to more patients across greater Florida while maintaining personalized, community-focused care. (Link)

Venture and Other News   

  1. JPM26: Anthropic launches Claude for Healthcare to Turbocharge AI efficiency at HealthSystems, Payers Anthropic introduced Claude for Healthcare at the J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference (JPM26), providing purpose-built, HIPAA-ready AI tools for health systems, payers, providers, and hospitals to accelerate administrative and clinical workflows including prior authorization, clinical documentation, claims management, care coordination, regulatory submissions, and patient message triage. The platform connects Claude to key data sources such as the CMS Coverage Database (Local and National Coverage Determinations), ICD-10 codes, National Provider Identifier Registry, and PubMed (with over 35 million biomedical literature entries), enabling natural language querying, surfacing coverage differences, reducing claim denials, and supporting FHIR interoperability via Agent Skills. It builds on the October launch of Claude for Life Sciences with additional connectors for platforms like Medidata and ClinicalTrials.gov, while offering consumer-facing features like medical history summarization and health metric pattern detection through beta integrations with HealthEx, Function, Apple Health, and Android Health Connect. Emphasizing AI safety through its Constitutional AI approach, the tools aim to minimize hallucinations, ensure reproducible and cited results, and amplify human capabilities in highstakes, regulated healthcare environments, with early adoption by organizations including Banner Health, Stanford Healthcare, Novo Nordisk, Sanofi, AbbVie, and Genmab. (Link)
  2. OpenAI Invests in Merge Labs’ $250M Seed Led by OpenAI with Bain Capital, Interface Fund, Fifty Years and Gabe Newell to Advance Noninvasive Brain‑Computer Interfaces Merge Labs, a brain-computer interface “research lab” co-founded by Sam Altman and collaborators from Tools for Humanity, Forest Neurotech and Caltech, raised $250 million at an $850 million valuation to pursue non-invasive BCIs that link biological and artificial intelligence using molecules and deep-reaching modalities like ultrasound. The startup aims to extend human capabilities and restore or enhance brain function by interfacing with neurons at scale, with applications well beyond current medical BCI use cases. OpenAI plans to collaborate with Merge on foundation models and AI operating systems that interpret neural intent and work robustly with limited, noisy brain signals. (Link)
  3. Proxima raises $80M Seed Led by DCVC with NVentures, Braidwell, Roivant, AIX Ventures, Yosemite, Magnetic Ventures, Alexandria Venture Investments and Modi Ventures to Advance Proximity-Based Medicines The AI-native biotech, formerly VantAI, is developing proximity therapeutics that modulate protein–protein interactions, including modalities like molecular glues and PROTACs, to reach historically “undruggable” targets across oncology, immunology and other diseases. Its NeoLink data-generation technology and Neo AI model series generate proteome-scale structural data on protein complexes to enable rational design of proximity-modulating small molecules, with aims to improve safety and shorten development timelines. The company has secured multibillion-dollar research collaborations with Johnson & Johnson, Bristol Myers Squibb and Blueprint Medicines, with multiple partnered programs progressing toward the clinic and the first expected to enter trials in 2026. (Link)
  4. Vista AI raises $29.5M series B with Cedars-Sinai Health System, Intermountain Health, University of Utah Hospital System, Temple University/Fox Chase Cancer Center, Tampa General Hospital, Khosla Ventures and Bold Brain Capital to Expand Automated MRI Imaging Platform The company’s AI software automates MRI scanning workflows to reduce complexity and variability, helping radiology teams keep up with rising MRI demand amid technologist shortages. Vista AI plans to expand from its FDA-cleared cardiac MRI platform into brain, prostate and spine imaging and add remote scanning services so sites without in-house expertise can offer advanced exams. Early adopters such as Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Radiology Regional report 50% more cardiac MRI slots, elimination of a 28-day backlog, and scan times cut by more than half without adding staff or scanners. (Link)
  5. Converge Bio raises $25M Series A Led by Bessemer Venture Partners with TLV Partners, Saras Capital, Vintage Investment Partners and Executives from Meta, OpenAI and Wiz to Accelerate AI-Driven Drug Discovery The Boston- and Tel Aviv-based startup builds generative AI models trained on DNA, RNA and protein sequences to plug directly into pharma and biotech workflows across target discovery, antibody design, protein yield optimization and biomarker discovery. Its customer-facing systems integrate generative, predictive and physics-based docking models so clients receive ready-to-use platforms rather than stitching tools together. In two years, Converge has completed more than 40 programs with over a dozen customers across the U.S., Canada, Europe and Israel, reporting up to 4–4.5X protein yield gains and single‑nanomolar affinity antibodies, and is now expanding into Asia. (Link)
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News Healthcare Deals, Investments & Update Week ending Jan 12th 2026

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  1. 44th Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference 2026 Commences in San Francisco with Industry Leaders and Dealmakers The world’s largest healthcare investment symposium kicks off today, running through January 15, 2026, at the Westin St. Francis in San Francisco, bringing together global industry leaders, emerging companies, innovative technology creators, and the investment community. The conference features keynote addresses from JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon, CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz, and FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary. Key panel discussions include OpenAI in healthcare, federated AI in oncology, women’s health innovation, and ARPA-H initiatives. Major pharmaceutical companies including Eli Lilly, Novo Nordisk, Teva, AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Merck, Moderna, and Samsung Biologics are presenting throughout the four-day event. (Link)
  2. Anthropic Launches Claude for Healthcare at JPM26, Partners with Banner Health, Stanford Health Care, and Novo Nordisk The AI company debuted Claude for Healthcare, a HIPAA-ready platform designed for payers, providers, and health systems, extending its Claude model into regulated healthcare environments. It offers secure integrations with databases such as CMS Coverage, ICD‑10, PubMed, and the National Provider Identifier Registry, supporting workflows like medical coding, claims management, and prior authorization. The launch, following Claude for Life Sciences, adds specialized tools for interoperability, clinical documentation, and real‑time analytics. Existing users—including Banner Health, Stanford Health Care, Sanofi, AbbVie, and Genmab—use Claude to automate administrative workflows and improve clinical and operational efficiency. (Link)
  3. Eli Lilly (NYSE: LLY) to acquire Ventyx Biosciences (NASD: VTYX) for $1.2 Billion to Advance Oral Inflammatory Disease Therapies The Indianapolis-based pharmaceutical giant will pay $14.00 per share in an all-cash transaction representing a 62% premium to Ventyx’s 30-day volume-weighted average trading price. The San Diego clinical-stage company develops NLRP3 inhibitors targeting chronic inflammation across cardiometabolic disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and inflammatory disorders. Dr. Daniel Skovronsky emphasized the acquisition strengthens Lilly’s capabilities in delivering advances for patients with challenging diseases. Entities affiliated with New Science Ventures and all Ventyx directors and officers signed voting agreements representing approximately 10% of outstanding common stock. The transaction requires Ventyx stockholder approval and regulatory clearances, expected to close in first half 2026. (Link)
  4. Aktis Oncology (NASD: AKTS) raises $318M in Upsized IPO with backing from Bristol Myers Squibb, Merck’s MRL Ventures Fund, Eli Lilly and Pfizer to Advance Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Therapies The company sold 17.6 million shares at $18 each, exceeding its initial estimate of 11.8 million shares priced between $16-$18, making it the largest biotech IPO since last year’s offerings from Metsera, LB Pharmaceuticals, and MapLight Therapeutics. Proceeds could increase by $47.6 million if underwriters exercise their option to purchase 2.6 million additional shares. The biotech allocated $140-$150 million to fund its ongoing U.S. phase 1b study of miniprotein radiopharmaceutical Ac-AKY-1189 for Nectin-4 expressing tumours, with results expected first quarter 2027, and $70-$80 million for phase 1b launch of Ac-AKY-2519 targeting B7-H3 expressing tumours. Shares begin trading Friday on Nasdaq under ticker “AKTS.” (Link)
  5. Eli Lilly (NYSE: LLY) partners with InduPro in Deal Worth Up to $950M to Develop Cancer Therapeutics The Indianapolis-based pharmaceutical company will collaborate on up to three undisclosed cancer targets while making an equity investment of undisclosed amount. InduPro will lead early discovery using its AI/ML-enabled membrane interactomics platform to create bi- and tri-specific therapeutics. The Seattle and Cambridge-based biotech analyses tumour antigen proximity to discover disease-specific protein-target pairs for developing bispecific antibody-drug conjugates and multispecific T-cell engagers. This marks InduPro’s second major pharma partnership following December’s collaboration with Sanofi on bispecific PD-1 agonist antibodies. InduPro raised $85 million in series A financing in June 2024, with lead candidate IDP-003 currently in studies enabling human testing. (Link)
  6. Haemonetics (NYSE: HAE) acquires Vivasure Medical Limited for €100M Upfront Plus Contingent Payments The Boston-based medical technology company purchased the Galway, Ireland firm to expand its presence in large-bore closure markets for structural heart and endovascular procedures. Vivasure’s PerQseal® Elite system uses a proprietary bioabsorbable patch to seal arteriotomies and venotomies up to 26 F from inside the vessel. The ELITE arterial study showed 0% major complications at thirty-day follow-up with immediate median time to haemostasis. Additional contingent consideration of up to €85 million depends on sales growth and milestone achievement. CEO Andrew Glass emphasized joining Haemonetics provides global scale to accelerate technology availability worldwide. (Link)
  7. Merck (NYSE: MRK) Completes $9 Billion Acquisition of Cidara Therapeutics for CD388 Influenza Drug Merck finalized its acquisition of Cidara through a tender offer at $221.50 per share, with 85.96% of outstanding shares tendered. The deal brings CD388, a potentially first-in-class long-acting antiviral for influenza prevention, into Merck’s respiratory portfolio. The investigational drug-Fc conjugate shows broad activity against influenza A and B strains and is designed to provide season-long protection for high-risk individuals without requiring immune response activation. Cidara becomes a wholly owned subsidiary, with its stock delisted from Nasdaq. (Link)
  8. IntelyCare acquires CareRev to Expand Healthcare Workforce Management Platform The tech-enabled staffing platform purchased the acute care labour marketplace to create a comprehensive clinical labour solution addressing critical workforce shortages across healthcare settings. The combined entity will operate both brands, offering integrated services spanning job boards, recruiting, contingent labour, and internal resource pools through a single technology platform. CEO Matthew Levesque emphasized the merger helps facilities efficiently manage permanent staff and contingent workers while maintaining care quality. IntelyCare previously achieved unicorn status with a $115 million Series C round in April 2022. Investors LRVHealth and Transformation Capital praised the strategic combination’s potential to lead workforce transformation in the healthcare sector. (Link)
  9. Verana Health merges with COTA to Expand Real-World Data Offerings Across Oncology and Specialties The combined entity will serve 17 of the top 20 global biopharma companies with access to over 95 million patients and 20,000 clinicians, including network expansion to more than 30 Academic Medical Centers. COTA’s oncology focus complements Verana Health’s existing data platforms in ophthalmology, urology, and neurology. The portfolio supports clinical trials, drug submissions, health economics research, and market-access strategies. Existing institutional investors committed an additional $52 million in equity investment. CEO Sujay Jadhav emphasized the combination raises standards for clinical expertise, data quality, and transparency across multiple therapeutic areas. (Link)
  10. Veritas Capital to acquire Majority Stake in Global Healthcare Exchange from Temasek and Warburg Pincus Veritas Capital will partner with existing shareholders to accelerate GHX’s growth strategy in healthcare supply chain software. The cloud-based platform connects providers and suppliers, serving Gartner’s top 25 U.S. healthcare systems and top 30 global medical-surgical suppliers. Through AI-driven automation and intelligent decision support, the company has delivered over $27 billion in savings over three years. The investment will enable faster product innovation, organic and inorganic growth opportunities, and enhanced AI capabilities to improve supply chain efficiency and patient care delivery. The transaction is expected to close in Q1 2026, subject to regulatory approvals. (Link)
  11. RadNet (NASD: RDNT) acquires Radiology Regional from LucidHealth, Expanding to Southwest Florida The acquisition brings 13 imaging centers across Naples, Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Port Charlotte and Sarasota into RadNet’s network. Radiology Regional has provided multi-modality imaging services including MRI, CT, PET/CT, mammography, ultrasound and X-ray for half a century. The expansion adds approximately 400 employees and 44 contracted radiologists to RadNet’s existing five Florida locations. RadNet plans to deploy its DeepHealth AI-powered innovations to enhance clinical accuracy and streamline imaging processes. The deal is projected to contribute approximately $100 million in revenue during 2026, supporting growing demand for advanced imaging services in Florida’s rapidly expanding population. (Link)
  12. Corewell Health and Quest Diagnostics Form Joint Venture for Laboratory Services in Michigan The 51%-49% joint venture, Diagnostic Lab of Michigan, LLC, will establish a 100,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility at Corewell Health Southfield Center featuring automated microbiology and high-throughput molecular testing. Quest will provide Collaborative Lab Solutions including reference testing, professional management, workforce and supply chain services for all 21 Corewell Health hospital labs statewide, which will remain operational. The transaction is expected to close in Q1 2026, with most laboratory services beginning in 2026 and the new facility operational by Q1 2027. Existing patient service centers will continue operating under joint venture management until the new laboratory opens. (Link)

Venture and Other News  

  1. AirNexis secures $200M Series A Led by Frazier Life Sciences with OrbiMed, Goldman Sachs Alternatives, SR One; Licenses Haisco Pharmaceutical’s COPD Asset in $955M Deal Founded by Frazier Life Sciences, the California biotech obtained exclusive rights outside China to HSK39004 (AN01), a PDE3/4 inhibitor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, for $40 million upfront. Haisco will hold 19.9% equity and earn potential regulatory and commercial milestone payments plus royalties. The dual-mechanism inhaler launched three phase 2 trials in 2025, testing different dosage forms including inhalation suspension and powder designed to expand airways and reduce inflammation. The series A round included participation from OrbiMed, Life Sciences at Goldman Sachs Alternatives, SR One, Longitude Capital and Enavate Sciences. CEO Maria Fardis, former Lassen Therapeutics chief, leads the startup. (Link)
  2. Pomelo Care banks $92M Series C Led by Stripes with Andreessen Horowitz, PLUS Capital, Atomico, BoxGroup, and SV Angel to Expand Virtual Women’s and Paediatric Healthcare The startup, now valued at $1.7 billion, is expanding beyond maternity care to reproductive health, paediatrics, hormonal health, and menopause services. Pomelo partners with health plans and employers, covering over 25 million lives and supporting nearly 7% of U.S. births. Independent studies show the platform reduces total care costs, lowers NICU and ER utilization, and delivers 3-5x ROI through outcomes including 37% fewer preterm births and 46% reduction in emergency room visits. The company has raised  ~ $171 million to date and recently launched a midlife care program demonstrating 88% symptom reduction in 60 days. (Link)
  3. Ventaris Surgical raises $30M Series A Led by Longitude Capital and Vensana Capital with Atypical Ventures, Neotribe Ventures, and Boutique Venture Partners The San Carlos-based medical device company is developing a ureteroscopic system designed to improve complete stone clearance during kidney stone procedures. CEO Surag Mantri emphasized the technology removes unnecessary friction from surgeries, allowing surgeons to focus on achieving consistent outcomes. Varun Gupta of Longitude Capital and Justin Klein of Vensana Capital will join the Board of Directors alongside independent member Amir Abolfathi. Proceeds will support continued clinical development and advancement toward regulatory and commercial milestones. Maxwell Bikoff noted the technology addresses critical unmet needs in current standard of care for one of the most common urologic interventions. (Link)
  4. Canopy raises $22M Series B Led by 111° West Capital and ACME Capital to Expand Healthcare Staff Safety Platform The San Francisco-based company’s platform is deployed across 60 major U.S. health systems supporting over 300,000 healthcare workers in more than 1,200 buildings. The technology addresses workplace violence, which has increased 63% over the past five years, through discreet duress alerts and real-time situational awareness. Current clients include Boston Children’s Hospital, Thomas Jefferson University, and University of Michigan Health–Sparrow. CEO Shan Sinha emphasized the platform’s safety-first architecture as a core operational requirement. Bharat Sundaram, CEO of Hallmark Healthcare Solutions, joins the board. Funding will accelerate nationwide expansion and rollout of operational tools including Canopy Find and Canopy Track. (Link)
  5. Healthcare Investment and News Outlook for 2026 
    • LECO – 2026 Healthcare Investment Perspective (Link)
    • Pitchbook  – 2026 Healthcare Outlook (Link) 
    • Forbes – The Healthcare Industry Outlook For 2026 (Link) 
    • Deloitte – 2026 US Health Care Outlook (Link) 
    • E&Y  – Healthcare Sector Outlook: growing amid headwinds in 2026  (Link) 
    • PwC  – US Deals 2026 outlook Health services (Link)