IQVIA (NYSE: IQV) Expands Early-Stage Drug Discovery Capabilities with Acquisition of Charles River Discovery Assets IQVIA Holdings Inc. (NYSE: IQV) announced an agreement to acquire select discovery services assets from Charles River Laboratories, strengthening its early-stage R&D capabilities. The assets include five sites offering in vitro drug discovery, AI-driven small molecule platforms, and advanced non-animal research methods backed by over 20 years of scientific data. These capabilities will enhance IQVIA’s integrated platform across drug discovery, from target identification to early safety assessment, covering key therapeutic areas like oncology, neurology, and immunology. The move positions IQVIA to support clients earlier in the drug development lifecycle. The transaction is expected to close in Q2 2026. (Link)
GSK (NYSE: GSK) Agrees to Acquire 35Pharma for $950 Million to Bolster Cardiopulmonary Pipeline GSK announced an agreement to acquire 35Pharma Inc., a Canada-based clinical-stage biopharma company focused on novel protein-based therapeutics. The deal gives GSK full ownership of 35Pharma and its lead asset HS235, a potential best-in-class activin receptor signaling inhibitor targeting pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and pulmonary hypertension due to heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (PH-HFpEF). The acquisition strengthens GSK’s Respiratory, Immunology and Inflammation portfolio, addressing unmet needs in a high-burden disease with a growing market projected to reach $18 billion by 2032. GSK will pay $950 million in cash for 100% equity, subject to regulatory approvals, with closing expected thereafter. (Link)
Exa Capital Expands Healthcare Software Portfolio with Acquisition of StaffReady, a Leader in Clinical Workforce Management SaaS Exa Capital, a long-term investor specializing in enterprise software, has acquired StaffReady, a SaaS platform for clinical workforce management in healthcare. Founded in 1995, StaffReady provides cloud-native tools for staff scheduling, compliance, and inspection readiness across hospital departments and life sciences organizations. The deal strengthens Exa Capital’s healthcare technology portfolio and marks its entry into clinical workforce optimization, a sector critical to operational efficiency and patient safety. StaffReady will continue to operate independently under Exa’s decentralized model, with its leadership team remaining in place to drive innovation and sustainable growth backed by Exa’s strategic support. (Link)
Numantec Expands Infusion Therapy Portfolio with Acquisition of DualCap® Product Line from Merit Medical financed by Banco BPM and Muzinich & Co Numantec, a global infusion therapy device manufacturer, has acquired the DualCap® product line from Merit Medical Systems through its U.S. subsidiary, Health Line International Corp. The DualCap® is an established antimicrobial cap used in vascular access and infusion therapy, enhancing infection prevention and clinical efficiency. The acquisition strengthens Numantec’s vascular access portfolio and creates growth opportunities across Europe and the U.S., where DualCap® already has a strong customer base. Health Line, which has manufactured DualCap® since before 2017, will ensure continuity of supply. The transaction was financed by Banco BPM and Muzinich & Co. (Link)
Healthcare Triangle (Nasd: HCTI) Announces $3.96 Million Registered Direct Offering Priced at-the-Market to Support Growth Initiatives Healthcare Triangle, Inc. (Nasdaq: HCTI), a digital transformation leader for healthcare and life sciences, announced it has entered into definitive agreements to sell 681,553 shares of common stock (or prefunded warrants) at $5.81 per share in a registered direct offering priced at-the-market under Nasdaq rules. The gross proceeds are expected to total approximately $3.96 million before fees and expenses. The offering, conducted under the company’s effective Form S-3 shelf registration, is expected to close around February 27, 2026, subject to customary conditions. (Link)
The HWP Group Acquires Global Market Access Solutions to Strengthen Market Access and Health Economics Expertise Backed by NMS Capital The HWP Group, a leading medical communications and strategic consulting firm for the life sciences sector, has acquired Global Market Access Solutions (GMAS), a global consultancy specializing in market access and health economics. The acquisition expands HWP’s capabilities in HEOR, pricing and payer insights, evidence synthesis, and lifecycle value strategy, enhancing support across the entire product lifecycle—from early development to sustained patient access. CEO Jani Hegarty said the deal reinforces HWP’s mission to bridge science and real-world access. Backed by NMS Capital, the move positions HWP as a fully integrated partner for pharmaceutical and biotechnology innovators. (Link)
QC Capital Invests in My Pediatric Doctor to Expand Nationwide 24/7 Urgent Pediatric Telehealth Platform QC Capital Group, a Charlotte-based alternative investment firm, announced a strategic investment in My Pediatric Doctor, a nationwide 24/7 pediatric telehealth platform offering on-demand access to board-certified providers. Led by CEO Eric Doherty, the company aims to modernize pediatric care by reducing emergency room visits and improving accessibility for families across all 50 states, Guam, and Puerto Rico. The platform integrates with healthcare systems to relieve pressure on hospitals while maintaining high clinical standards. QC Capital CEO Chris Salerno called the partnership a key step in delivering trusted, affordable pediatric care nationwide. (Link)
HCAP Partners Leads Follow-On Acquisition to Expand Integrated Diagnostic Services Platform with Core Analytics Lab & Radiology other partners include California Bank & Trust, along with co-investment from St. Cloud Capital and Southfield Mezzanine San Diego-based private equity and impact investor HCAP Partners has completed a follow-on acquisition for its Integrated Diagnostic Services (IDS) platform with the addition of Santa Fe Springs-based Core Analytics Lab & Radiology. The deal expands IDS’s footprint into Northern California and adds mobile laboratory diagnostics to its service offerings. Financing was provided by HCAP Partners, California Bank & Trust, along with co-investment from St. Cloud Capital and Southfield Mezzanine. Post-acquisition, IDS will serve over 440 facilities, offering bundled radiology and lab services to skilled nursing, long-term care, and home health providers across California. (Link)
Gemspring Capital Expands Spinal Device Platform as Portfolio Company Zavation Medical Acquires ChoiceSpine Zavation Medical Products, a Gemspring Capital portfolio company and manufacturer of spinal implants and biologics, has acquired ChoiceSpine Holdings, a Knoxville-based spinal implant designer. The transaction broadens Zavation’s product portfolio and national reach, leveraging its vertically integrated manufacturing to accelerate innovation. ChoiceSpine will keep its brand and operations during integration. Concurrently, Zavation appointed Derek Kuyper as CEO of the combined entity. Gemspring Capital said the acquisition strengthens Zavation’s market position and supports its strategy to build a scaled, innovation-driven spinal platform. (Link)
Fulcrum Equity Partners Leads $10M Growth Round in MedScout to Advance AI-Driven MedTech Sales Execution with participation from Live Oak Venture Partners and Stage 2 Capital Austin-based MedScout has raised $10 million in a growth funding round led by Fulcrum Equity Partners, with participation from Live Oak Venture Partners and Stage 2 Capital. The funding more than doubles MedScout’s valuation since its Series A in July 2024. The company also launched “Strategies,” a suite of AI agents designed to help MedTech commercial teams translate strategy into field-level execution. MedScout plans to use the capital to expand its AI capabilities amid surging enterprise demand. The company reported tripled enterprise revenue and rapid adoption growth as investors back its data-driven approach to commercial alignment in MedTech sales. (Link)
Chapters Health Expands West Coast Footprint with Housecall Providers Deal, Strengthening Nonprofit Hospice Network and Growth Potential Chapters Health System, the nation’s largest nonprofit hospice network, has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Housecall Providers from CareOregon, pending approval by the Oregon Health Authority. The move expands its Pacific Northwest presence and adds to its 2025 West Division growth, which includes affiliates in California, Nevada, and Oregon. The integration aligns two nonprofit leaders in community-based chronic and homecare, reinforcing Chapters’ national scale, operational synergies, and value-based care capabilities—key drivers for investors tracking nonprofit healthcare consolidation and sustainable care delivery models. (Link)
Dovida Enters U.S. Market with Acquisition of A Place At Home, Expanding Global Home Care Footprint to Seven Countries Global home care provider Dovida has entered the U.S. market through the acquisition of A Place At Home, a nationwide home care franchise network. The move marks Dovida’s seventh international market and first presence in North America, extending its person-centered care model across the United States. A Place At Home’s leadership will remain in place to ensure continuity for franchise owners and caregivers. The deal aligns with Dovida’s strategy to expand amid increasing demand for high-quality in-home care for older adults, reinforcing its mission to deliver personal, dignified, and relationship-based care on a global scale. (Link)
Ally Bridge Group Backs Creation of Precision IO Group as Quantum Surgical Acquires NeuWave Medical to Advance Robotic Cancer Care Quantum Surgical has acquired NeuWave Medical, Inc., combining expertise in robotic and microwave ablation technologies under a new parent entity, Precision IO Group Inc., led by medtech veteran Kurt Azarbarzin. Supported by investment from Ally Bridge Group, the group aims to expand access to minimally invasive, AI-driven, and remote cancer treatments worldwide. Both companies will continue operating independently, ensuring ongoing product availability. The Epione robotic platform and NeuWave’s microwave system will together drive broader adoption of next-generation interventional oncology procedures across global healthcare markets. (Link)
HIAAH Expands Mental Health Footprint with Strategic Acquisition of Broward Center for Counseling to Strengthen Market Presence in Broward County HIAAH, a U.S.-based integrated health care and mental health services provider, has acquired the Broward Center for Counseling as part of its expansion strategy in Broward County. The move reinforces HIAAH’s mission to broaden access to high-quality, compassionate mental health care while improving operational efficiency and client experience. The newly branded Broward Center for Counseling by HIAAH will continue providing individualized therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues, now supported by enhanced infrastructure and a holistic, multidisciplinary care model. The acquisition aligns with HIAAH’s growth objectives and positions it for stronger long-term value creation in the behavioral health sector. (Link)
UConn Health Finalizes Waterbury Hospital Acquisition from Prospect Medical Holdings UConn Health is set to complete its acquisition of Waterbury Hospital from bankrupt for-profit Prospect Medical Holdings at midnight on Saturday, marking a major expansion of its health network. The facility will operate under a new entity, UConn Health Community Network, beginning Sunday at 12:01 a.m. Immediate changes include new signage, updated processes, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 4. UConn Health plans to assess Waterbury’s healthcare needs, modernize information and safety systems, and introduce new specialists and services from its flagship John Dempsey Hospital in Farmington to strengthen local medical care and patient outcomes. (Link)
Bradford Health Expands into Midwest with Acquisition of Parkdale Center, Strengthening National Footprint in Specialized Professional Addiction Care Bradford Health Services, a nationally recognized addiction treatment provider, has acquired Parkdale Center, a leading Indiana-based facility specializing in confidential addiction recovery programs for healthcare providers, attorneys, executives, and other licensed professionals. The deal extends Bradford’s geographic reach into the Midwest and enhances its portfolio of evidence-based treatment offerings. Parkdale’s expertise in professional recovery, career reentry, and collaboration with licensing boards complements Bradford’s mission of clinical excellence and sustainable outcomes. Both organizations will maintain their brands while integrating operations to deliver expanded, high-quality care for professionals nationwide. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. (Link)
Zemantics Ventures Strengthens Healthcare Portfolio with Acquisition of Consilium360 and MedWell360 Zemantics Ventures, a strategic investment and operating platform, has acquired Consilium360 and MedWell360 to expand its presence in healthcare services and workforce solutions. The move enhances Zemantics’ capabilities in enterprise HR optimization, patient access, and technology-enabled operational performance. Consilium360 provides data-driven workforce and HR strategy solutions for healthcare systems, while MedWell360 specializes in scheduling and access center services. The acquisitions support Zemantics’ strategy of scaling founder-led, service-driven businesses through strategic capital, shared infrastructure, and technology. John Brown, Founder and Healthcare HR Executive, will continue in a leadership role to ensure continuity and growth. (Link)
Epiphany Dermatology Expands Kansas Presence Through Partnership with Resolute Dermatology Epiphany Dermatology, a leading national dermatology network, has expanded its presence in Kansas by partnering with Resolute Dermatology, LLC, founded in 2020 by Dr. Daniel Christiansen. Based in Leawood and Shawnee, KS, Resolute Dermatology is recognized for high-quality patient care in the greater Kansas City area. The partnership brings Dr. Christiansen and his team—Drs. Julie Green, Elizabeth Spenceri, and PAs Judy Ky and Kylie Witham—into Epiphany’s growing network. Through this collaboration, Resolute gains operational and clinical support while sharing expertise across Epiphany’s 123 locations in 18 states, strengthening access to exceptional dermatologic care in the region. (Link)
Venture and Other News:
NewSpring Healthcare Leads $140 Million Investment in Honest Health to Accelerate Value-Based Care Expansion included participation from K2 HealthVentures and existing investors Rubicon Founders, Oak HC/FT, WCAS, and Durable Capital Partners Honest Health, a physician-led value-based care enablement firm, raised $140 million in a funding round led by NewSpring Healthcare, the healthcare-focused arm of NewSpring Capital. The round included participation from K2 HealthVentures and existing investors Rubicon Founders, Oak HC/FT, WCAS, and Durable Capital Partners. Proceeds will support national expansion and partnerships with health systems and payers. NewSpring will leverage its sector expertise to guide Honest Health’s growth in risk-based care models. (Link)
NantWorks Leads $240 Million Investment in SHINE Technologies; Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong Joins Board to Advance Fusion and Cancer Therapies SHINE Technologies, a leader in fusion-based technology, has raised $240 million in new equity funding led by NantWorks, founded by Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, who also joins SHINE’s Board of Directors. Other investors include Fidelity, Sumitomo, Pelican Energy, Deerfield, and Oaktree. The funding supports SHINE’s commercial fusion initiatives in neutron testing, medical isotope production, and nuclear waste recycling, while accelerating Lu-177 radioisotope supply for precision cancer therapies. The strategic partnership gives NantWorks priority access to Lu-177, aligning SHINE’s fusion expertise with Soon-Shiong’s mission to transform oncology. With this round, SHINE’s total funding surpasses $1 billion. (Link)
BrainCheck Secures Additional $13 Million Series A to Scale AI-Enabled Cognitive Care Platform and Embedded Assessment Workflows Across Value-Based Health Systems BrainCheck, a digital platform for cognitive assessment and care, has raised an additional $13 million in Series A financing led by Next Coast Ventures, with S3 Ventures and UPMC Enterprises participating. The capital will expand its enterprise cognitive care infrastructure, including deeper EHR integration, longitudinal monitoring, AI-assisted population health analytics, and deployment across primary care and specialty settings. BrainCheck is partnering with collaborative care organizations to operationalize scalable cognitive care pathways in time-constrained, value-based environments. Used by 500+ providers, its FDA Class II BrainCheck Assess™ has powered over 640,000 assessments and 14,000 care plans to date. (Link)
YOU(th) Health Tech Raises $4.5M to Expand Smartphone-Based Preventive Health Screening Globally round led by Callisto Health, with support from caesar., adesso Ventures, Antler, Moonstone, and 1024 Ventures. Digital health startup YOU(th) has raised $4.5 million in a funding round led by Callisto Health, with support from caesar., adesso Ventures, Antler, Moonstone, and 1024 Ventures. Angel investors include Jean-Charles Samuelian (Alan, Mistral AI) and Patrick Andrae (HomeToGo). The company aims to democratize preventive healthcare by turning everyday smartphone data—such as facial videos, voice, typing patterns, and step counts—into quick health assessments detecting over 50 biomarkers across 10 organ systems. The funds will support product development and expansion of engineering, data science, and medical research teams to make preventive care accessible worldwide. (Link)
General Catalyst Leads $6.5M Seed in Baba to Build Continuous AI‑Enabled Patient Advocacy for Aging Americans General Catalyst has led a more than $6.5 million seed round in Baba, a patient advocacy startup founded by Connor Sweeney to help seniors and families navigate complex healthcare logistics. Inspired by his grandparents’ experience after his grandmother’s stroke, Sweeney built Baba to pair older adults with dedicated human advocates, augmented by AI tools for daily check-ins, medication management, and insurance and benefits navigation. With advocacy reimbursed by Medicare for over 70 million beneficiaries, Baba aims to scale continuous, preventive support through partnerships with home health, nursing homes, and post-acute care providers. (Link)
Coral Care Raises $13M Series A Led by Haymaker Ventures, Joined by FCA Ventures, Peterson Ventures, Alleycorp, Reach Capital, Jefferson River Capital, Greymatter Capital, Mother Ventures, and Charge Ventures to Expand In-Home Pediatric Therapy Nationwide Coral Care, a platform providing in-home pediatric speech, occupational, and physical therapy, has raised a $13 million Series A round led by Haymaker Ventures, with participation from FCA Ventures, Peterson Ventures, Alleycorp, Reach Capital, Jefferson River Capital, Greymatter Capital, Mother Ventures, and Charge Ventures. The funding will fuel national expansion in Dallas, Houston, Chicago, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh, bringing operations to five states. Founded in 2023 by Jen Wirt, Coral Care supports over 400 licensed clinicians through its technology platform that streamlines administrative tasks and enables accessible, insurance-covered, in-home therapy for children across the U.S. (Link)
AI Healthtech Startup Lexi Raises $1.4M Pre-Seed Round Led by Informed Ventures, Backed by HBS Alumni Angels, Stanford Angels, Alumni Ventures, and Van Wickle Ventures Lexi, an AI-native communication platform for healthcare, has raised an oversubscribed $1.4 million pre-seed round led by Informed Ventures, with participation from HBS Alumni Angels, Stanford Angels, Alumni Ventures, and Van Wickle Ventures. Founded by Linh Pham and Siddharth UR, Lexi tackles language barriers affecting 30 million U.S. patients by providing secure, instant AI interpretation within clinical workflows. A successful pilot with Lowell Community Health Center delivered over 60,000 minutes of interpretation, reduced costs by 60%, and improved privacy and efficiency. Lexi plans to expand deployments across health centers while broadening language coverage and patient partnerships. (Link)
Trump’s Section 122 Tariffs Hit UK, EU Hardest as Supreme Court Strikes Down IEEPA Levies, Benefiting Brazil, China, India The U.S. Supreme Court ruled 6-3 that President Trump wrongly used IEEPA for tariffs, prompting a shift to 15% global duties under Section 122 of the 1974 Trade Act. Trade-weighted averages rise for UK (+2.1 points), EU (+0.8), Japan (+0.4), South Korea (+0.6), while plunging for Brazil (-13.6), China (-7.1), and India. Experts note heaviest IEEPA-hit nations gain most relief; early deal-makers suffer hikes. EU seeks clarity on prior 15% cap deal. China assesses; India delays trade talks. (Link)
Blue Owl Capital Shares Slide Again as Debt Fund Liquidity Changes and $1.4B Asset Sale Heighten Private Credit Concerns Blue Owl Capital’s stock extended its recent selloff as investors reacted to the firm’s strategy to return capital from one of its private debt funds following a $1.4 billion loan portfolio sale. The alternative asset manager adjusted redemption mechanics for Blue Owl Capital Corp II, opting to return capital through asset sales rather than traditional quarterly liquidity windows. The developments have fueled broader concerns around liquidity, valuation transparency, and structural risks within retail-oriented private credit vehicles. The market reaction underscores growing scrutiny of private credit managers as fundraising slows and pressures rise. (Link)
Cristiano Ronaldo Invests $7.5 Million in Herbalife’s (NYSE: HLF) Pro2col AI Wellness Tech, Secures 10% Stake in Key Subsidiary Herbalife Ltd. (NYSE: HLF) announced soccer superstar Cristiano Ronaldo’s $7.5 million investment in HBL Pro2col Software, LLC, gaining a 10% equity stake. The deal includes service and sponsorship commitments, highlighting Ronaldo’s faith in Pro2col’s AI-driven, personalized wellness platform. Since partnering with Herbalife in 2013, Ronaldo endorsed products like Herbalife24 CR7 Drive. Pro2col uses data for custom plans, tracks habits via Pro2Score, and aids distributors. Now in U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico beta and expanding to EMEA, boosting their data-centric strategy. (Link)
True North PE Injects INR 150Cr ($16.5M) into High-Growth ACN Healthcare RCM; $20M More Eyed as India’s Outsourcing Boom Accelerates True North Private Equity’s Credit Opportunities Fund I invests Rs 150 crore in ACN Healthcare RCM, a top Revenue Cycle Management provider with India operations and US clients. ACN boasts 68% CAGR growth over three years, employing 3,000+ professionals across four centers. Funds will fuel service expansion, strategic moves, and new facilities. More PE funds eye up to $20M in the round. India’s RCM market surges at 15-17% CAGR, driven by outsourcing, AI, and global demand, with India holding 50% of worldwide talent amid healthcare complexities. (Link)
Danaher (NYSE: DHR) to Acquire Masimo (NASDAQ: MASI) in $9.9 Billion Cash Deal at $180/Share, Boosting Diagnostics with Pulse Oximetry Leader Amid Expected Synergies Danaher Corporation (NYSE: DHR) has agreed to acquire Masimo Corporation (NASDAQ: MASI) for $180 per share in cash, valuing the deal at $9.9 billion enterprise value. The acquisition bolsters DHR’s Diagnostics segment with MASI’s pulse oximetry and patient monitoring tech, expecting high-single-digit revenue growth, $530M+ 2027 EBITDA, $125M cost synergies, and $50M revenue synergies by year five. Deal closes H2 2026 pending approvals; accretive to EPS by $0.15-$0.20 year one, $0.70 by year five. (Link)
Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ) Explores $20 Billion Sale of DePuy Synthes Orthopedics Unit Amid Spinoff Plans Johnson & Johnson (JNJ.N) is preparing to sell its orthopedics unit, DePuy Synthes, in a deal potentially exceeding $20 billion, targeting private equity firms as top buyers, Reuters reports. The unit, which generated $9.3 billion in 2025 sales from hip, knee, and shoulder implants, was slated for a standalone spinoff within 18-24 months to focus on high-growth segments. J&J is assembling financials for upcoming buyer meetings; large PE firms may team up, with interest from medical device rivals possible. This follows resolutions of most ASR hip lawsuits. CFO eyes tax-free spinoff but open to sales. (Link)
PE-backed Elevate Patient Financial Solutions acquires Centauri Health Solutions’ health systems services unit, expanding Medicaid eligibility, enrolment and complex revenue cycle capabilities across U.S. hospital clients Private equity–backed Elevate Patient Financial Solutions has agreed to acquire Centauri Health Solutions’ Health Systems Services (HSS) unit, a Phoenix-based provider of specialized eligibility and enrollment services for Medicaid and disability programs, out-of-state Medicaid billing, and complex revenue cycle solutions for hospitals and health systems. The deal strengthens Elevate PFS’s position in patient financial engagement and government program eligibility, broadens its national footprint, and is expected to drive cross-selling opportunities across existing provider relationships while supporting uncompensated-care and Medicaid-reliant populations. (Link)
TriSalus Life Sciences (Nasdaq: TLSI) Prices $40M Common Stock Offering at $4.10/Share with 15% Over-Allotment Option, Closing February 23, 2026 TriSalus Life Sciences, Inc. (Nasdaq: TLSI) priced its underwritten public offering of 9,756,100 common shares at $4.10 each, expecting $40 million in gross proceeds before expenses. The oncology-focused medtech firm granted underwriter Lake Street Capital Markets a 30-day option for 1,463,415 additional shares (15% of the offering). Closing is set for February 23, 2026, subject to conditions, via an effective S-3 shelf registration. Funds will support general corporate purposes, amid devices like TriNav for tumor drug delivery and nelitolimod immunotherapy research. (Link)
CenterWell, the healthcare services division of Humana Inc. (NYS: HUM) Expands Florida Footprint with Acquisition of MaxHealth from Arsenal Capital Partners CenterWell, the healthcare services division of Humana Inc., has completed its acquisition of MaxHealth from private equity firm Arsenal Capital Partners and the company’s founder-shareholders. The deal strengthens CenterWell’s presence in Florida, adding a network of 54 owned primary care clinics, four specialty centers, and 24 affiliate clinics across West and South Florida. MaxHealth serves over 120,000 patients, including more than 80,000 in value-based care programs. The acquisition aligns with CenterWell’s strategy to expand its integrated, patient-centered care delivery network and enhance access to high-quality, coordinated healthcare services for seniors and other patients across the region. (Link)
CSD Acquires New Mexico’s Leading Autism Provider BCI in Strategic Merger to Boost Southwest Access, Innovation, and Evidence-Based Behavioral Care Nationwide via its financial sponsors NMS Capital, CD Private Equity, and Goldman Sachs Asset Management Center for Social Dynamics (CSD), a top national autism therapy provider, has acquired Behavior Change Institute (BCI), New Mexico’s premier autism care organization known for clinical expertise and equitable access. Announced February 19, 2026, the deal unites research-driven models, shortening wait times and blending in-person, virtual, and tech-enhanced therapies. CSD CEO Kelly Bozarth hailed it as a “values-driven union” for faster breakthrough care. BCI leaders emphasized scaling their mission nationally while preserving clinical culture. Families retain teams with added CSD tools; the merger advances research, clinician training, and outcomes in underserved areas. (Link)
VB Spine LLC Acquires Exclusive Rights to Augmedics’ FDA-Cleared xvision Spine System®, Bolstering AR Navigation Leadership in Spine Surgery with Nearly 13,000 Cases of Proven Use VB Spine LLC, the largest privately held spine company, announced a definitive agreement to acquire exclusive rights to Augmedics’ groundbreaking xvision Spine System®, the first FDA-cleared AR navigation platform for spine surgery. This move enhances VB Spine’s visualization portfolio, following its recent SpineHawk™ acquisition, and positions it as a global leader in AR-enabled solutions. xvision offers direct-patient visualization, precision, workflow efficiency, and radiation reduction, with nearly 13,000 procedures completed. The deal, expected to close soon pending approvals, supports VB Spine’s strategy to redefine spine care. (Link)
St. David’s HealthCare Acquires Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgeons, Strengthening Central Texas Cardiovascular Expertise in Strategic Integration Austin-based St. David’s HealthCare, part of HCA Healthcare and local nonprofits, has acquired Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgeons (CTVS) on Feb. 15. The system, with nine hospitals, 190 care sites, and over 12,600 employees, will keep CTVS’s name, operations, physicians, providers, and 45 staff intact while aligning them under St. David’s. “This integration builds on decades of collaboration to elevate care and innovation,” said CEO David Huffstutler. The move advances cardiovascular standards in Central Texas. (Link)
Epiphany Dermatology Expands Missouri Footprint with Strategic Partnership Joining Regional Dermatology’s St. Louis Clinics in Chesterfield and Festus Epiphany Dermatology has partnered with Regional Dermatology, LLC, founded in 2010 by board-certified dermatologist Sarah Jensen, M.D., to boost its presence in Missouri’s St. Louis market. The deal integrates Jensen’s team—including two advanced practice providers—at two locations: Chesterfield (West) and Festus. This enhances access to high-quality dermatology services like general care, skin cancer treatment, and Mohs surgery. Jensen praised Epiphany’s patient-focused values, while CEO Gheorghe Pusta highlighted the cultural fit and shared expertise. Epiphany now supports operations, marketing, and recruiting, operating 121 locations across 18 states from Austin, Texas. (Link)
Gilead to Acquire Arcellx for Up to $7.8 Billion, Expanding Oncology and Cell Therapy Pipeline Gilead Sciences has agreed to acquire Arcellx in a transaction valued at up to $7.8 billion, strengthening its position in next-generation cell therapies for cancer. Arcellx’s lead programs focus on innovative immunotherapy approaches designed to improve durability and safety in hematologic malignancies. The acquisition builds on Gilead’s broader oncology strategy and deepens its commitment to high-growth, high-innovation therapeutic areas. The deal underscores continued large-cap biopharma appetite for differentiated oncology assets amid competitive cell therapy development. (Link)
Viventium Acquires Apploi to Launch Unified HCM Platform Revolutionizing Post-Acute Care Workforce Management Amid Labor Crisis via its financial sponsor LLR Partners Viventium has acquired Apploi, creating a category-leading human capital management (HCM) platform tailored for post-acute and long-term care providers. The unified system integrates recruiting, credentialing, onboarding, payroll, scheduling, and compliance across all 50 states, addressing labor shortages and fragmented software silos. Viventium CEO Navin Gupta highlighted ending “fractured systems,” while Apploi CEO Adam Lewis emphasized full employee lifecycle support. Serving thousands of providers and hundreds of thousands of employees, the deal closed January 30, 2026. Financial terms undisclosed. (Link)
Invo Fertility (Nasdaq: IVF), Acquires Indianapolis’ Family Beginnings for $760K, Bolstering Midwest Presence and Projecting $9M Clinic Revenue in 2025 Amid Growth Pivot Invo Fertility Inc. (Nasdaq: IVF), based in Sarasota, has acquired the nonclinical assets of Midwest fertility clinic Family Beginnings in Indianapolis for $760,000 in cash and preferred stock. The deal preserves Dr. James Donahue’s leadership and the existing team, with Invo providing operational support and tech investments. Family Beginnings reported $1M revenue and $200K net income for the nine months ended Sept. 30, 2025—18% of Invo’s clinic revenue. Now with four clinics, Invo eyes $9M combined 2025 revenue, up from 2024’s $6.5M total (with $9.1M net loss). CEO Steve Shum calls it an “inflection point,” targeting acquisitions, organic growth, and 2026 expansion via marketing and tech. (Link)
Northwell Health Bolsters South Shore Presence with $9.5M Off-Market Acquisition of Merrick Orthopedic Office Building from Berkeley Capital Northwell Health has expanded its real estate holdings by acquiring a 17,714-square-foot medical office building at 1728-1732 Sunrise Highway in Merrick for $9.5 million in an off-market deal. The property, on 0.46 acres, houses Northwell affiliate Orlin & Cohen Orthopedic Group, with about three years remaining on its lease. Northwell, self-represented, bought from Berkeley Capital LLC, represented by North Village Realty’s Tom Bigansky. The move secures long-term healthcare delivery in South Shore communities, reflecting generational planning and market confidence, Bigansky noted. (Link)
Sensei Biotherapeutics (Nasdaq: SNSE) Acquires Faeth Therapeutics in $200M-Backed Deal to Advance PIKTOR Cancer Therapy Sensei Biotherapeutics (Nasdaq: SNSE) has acquired Faeth Therapeutics, gaining its lead asset PIKTOR—an investigational all-oral combo of serabelisib and sapanisertib targeting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway for endometrial and breast cancers. Concurrently, Sensei secured $200 million in Series B preferred stock financing from top investors like RA Capital, Vivo Capital, and Cormorant. Proceeds will fund Phase 2 topline data in endometrial cancer and a Phase 1b breast cancer trial by end-2026, plus ongoing solnerstotug studies. Post-deal, Faeth holders own 40.8%, investors 54.3%, and prior Sensei shareholders 4.9% on a fully diluted basis. (Link)
Kinderhook Industries to Take Home Health and Hospice Provider Enhabit (NYSE: EHAB) Private in $1.1B Deal Private equity firm Kinderhook Industries has agreed to acquire Enhabit Inc., a Dallas-based home health and hospice services provider, in a transaction valued at approximately $1.1 billion. Under the terms of the deal, Enhabit shareholders will receive $13.80 per share in cash, representing a premium to the company’s recent trading levels. The transaction is expected to close in Q2 2026, at which point Enhabit’s shares will be delisted from the NYSE. The acquisition reflects continued PE interest in the home health and hospice sector amid demographic tailwinds and demand for at-home care services. (Link)
Venture and Other News:
Rainfall Health Secures $15M Series A to Supercharge AI Compliance Platform Amid CMS’s TEAM Mandate Launch, Unlocking $100M+ Revenue for Hospitals Rainfall Health, an AI-driven compliance platform for hospitals, closed a $15 million Series A round led by Two Bear Capital. The funding will expand AI and customer support teams to aid providers under CMS’s new Transforming Episode Accountability Model (TEAM), launched January 1, 2026. TEAM targets high-cost surgeries like joint replacements and spinal fusions, offering 20% revenue boosts—over $100 million per health system—for meeting quality metrics. CEO Eddie Qureshi emphasized high-quality post-acute care. Backed by experts like former VA Secretary David Shulkin, Rainfall sets a national standard for value-based reimbursement and patient outcomes. (Link)
ProSomnus Secures $38 Million Strategic Investment from Catalio Capital to Advance Next‑Generation Smart Sleep Medicine Platform ProSomnus Sleep Technologies, a leader in non‑CPAP Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) therapy, announced a $38 million strategic investment from healthcare investor Catalio Capital Management to accelerate global expansion and technology development. The funding will support next‑generation remote patient monitoring, proprietary sleep diagnostic devices, and comparative clinical studies. CEO Len Liptak emphasized that the partnership validates ProSomnus’s mission to deliver data‑driven, patient‑preferred OSA therapies. CFO Jason Orchard noted the investment will optimize infrastructure and enhance patient outcomes. Catalio’s Dr. Nicholas von Guionneau joins as Board Observer, highlighting ProSomnus’s leadership in connected, precision sleep solutions. (Link)
Dallas-Based SpendRule Exits Stealth with $2M Seed Round from Abundant Venture Partners, MemorialCare Innovation Fund, and Zeal Capital Partners to Automate AI-Powered Contract Compliance and Invoice Validation for Hospitals like OSF HealthCare, Kettering Health, MemorialCare, and MUSC Health SpendRule, founded by Chris Heckler and Joseph Akintolayo, automates contract compliance and invoice validation for health systems. Its AI software checks purchased services invoices against contract terms pre-payment, integrating seamlessly with ERP systems, contract management, and accounts payable workflows. The funding will expand the team and advance AI infrastructure. Backed by Abundant Venture Partners—a Chicago VC focused on healthcare innovation with a network of 22+ provider organizations—SpendRule serves major clients including OSF HealthCare, Kettering Health, MemorialCare, and MUSC Health. (Link)
Covetrus and MWI Animal Health Strike $3.5 Billion Merger Deal, Forming Tech-Enhanced Platform with Cencora Retaining Major Stake Covetrus and MWI Animal Health announced a blockbuster $3.5 billion merger on February 18, creating a unified “comprehensive animal health platform.” MWI’s owners, Cencora, will receive $1.25 billion in cash and equity stakes, retaining a 34.3% share in the new entity. Leaders hailed the deal for blending MWI’s supply chain prowess and customer ties in companion and production animal sectors with Covetrus’ tech-driven veterinary solutions. The combo promises enhanced logistics, cost savings, broader customer reach—from vets and producers to pet owners—and accelerated innovation to make animal care more affordable and accessible. (Link)
Grail’s Galleri Multi-Cancer Early Detection Blood Test Misses Primary Endpoints in Large Screening Trial Grail’s Galleri multi-cancer early detection blood test recently failed to meet its primary endpoints in a large clinical screening study, raising doubts about its effectiveness as a broad population screening tool. Following the release of these results, the company’s stock experienced a significant decline as investors reassessed commercial prospects. The data suggested lower than expected sensitivity for detecting certain cancers, which could complicate regulatory and reimbursement pathways. The outcome underscores ongoing challenges for next-generation liquid biopsy tests in proving clinical utility at scale. (Link)
