< Back Digital Health Gains Still Out of Reach, BMJ Commission Finds Despite heavy investment, a BMJ Future Health Commission survey finds digital health has yet to ease workloads or cut costs, with EHR usability, interoperability, and training gaps undermining clinician trust. The BMJ Future Health Commission has published new findings suggesting that Europe’s rapid investment in digital health infrastructure is yet to yield the anticipated productivity benefits. Drawing on survey data from over 300 healthcare professionals (HCPs) and qualitative interviews across diverse care settings, the report documents a striking gap between optimism for digital transformation and its lived impact on clinical workflows. Fewer than half of respondents reported that digital systems had eased administrative burden (47%), reduced delivery costs (44%), or decreased clinical workload (38%). In contrast, a majority (80%) acknowledged improvements in care delivery, and 76% expressed optimism about healthcare’s digital future. Usability challenges with EHRs Electronic health records (EHRs), the most entrenched digital platform in European health systems, emerged as a paradoxical case. HCPs with the highest exposure to EHRs were significantly less likely to perceive efficiency benefits than their peers. This suggests that while EHRs have succeeded in digitising information, shortcomings in design, interoperability, and integration with clinical practice have limited their capacity to reduce workload. “These findings indicate that poor experiences with EHRs may erode clinician confidence in digital health more broadly, slowing adoption of emerging tools such as predictive analytics, patient-flow optimisation, and remote monitoring systems,” the Commission notes. Trust as a critical determinant The report positions trust as the decisive factor in digital health adoption. It distinguishes between: Foundational trust , established through transparent regulatory standards and certification processes. Operational trust , earned when frontline clinicians are actively involved in the design, selection, and training for new systems. Stephen McAdam, Segment Director for Digital Health at DNV, commented: “Trust is the critical currency of digital health. Rigorous standards ensure baseline safety, but confidence is ultimately secured on the ward, where usability and workflow fit determine whether technologies accelerate or obstruct care.” Five priorities for digital transformation The Commission sets out five evidence-based recommendations for closing the expectation–reality gap: Evaluate organisational confidence in EHRs , addressing usability deficits before scaling. Implement interoperability standards to facilitate secure, seamless data exchange. Commit to longitudinal training programmes that extend beyond deployment and target both clinical and non-clinical staff. Institutionalise clinician and patient involvement in procurement and design decisions to align systems with real-world practice. Strengthen risk management frameworks for data quality, security, and emergent threats. Implications for research and policy The findings arrive as European governments, including the UK, advance long-term digital strategies aimed at alleviating workforce shortages and rising demand. Yet, the Commission cautions that investment in infrastructure alone is insufficient. “Digital health’s promise will only be realised through rigorous implementation science, participatory design, and systematic evaluation of outcomes,” said Dr Helen Surana, Editor in Chief of BMJ Innovations. “Without these, digital transformation risks remaining a policy ambition rather than a clinical reality.” For researchers and policymakers, the report highlights a pressing need for translational studies that evaluate not only the technical capabilities of digital systems but also their impact on workflow, safety, and sustainability in practice. Author BioFocus Newsroom Previous Next

< Back 17th March, 2026 Philadelphia, PA Patient Assistance & Access Programs Championing patient access, affordability & support across the healthcare ecosystem. The Patient Assistance & Access Programs (PAP) Conference is the leading industry event dedicated to advancing patient access, affordability, and support strategies within the life sciences and healthcare community. Taking place March 17–19, 2026 (with pre-conference workshops on March 16) at the Sheraton Philadelphia Downtown, PAP unites pharma, patient advocacy organisations, health clinics, policy experts, and technology innovators to tackle today’s most pressing access challenges. Attendees will engage in robust keynotes, benchmark discussions, expert panels, and collaborative sessions focused on program optimisation, shifting policy landscapes, cutting-edge technology, and enhancing patient outcomes. PAP serves as an essential platform for sharing best practices, building cross-stakeholder partnerships, and accelerating equitable access to therapies and support services. Previous Register now Next

< Back GE HealthCare & MediView Launch AR Headset for Image-Guided Procedures GE HealthCare and MediView have now for the first time implemented the OmnifyXR, an augmented reality (AR) headset designed to facilitate image-guided medical procedures. After first announcing their collaboration back in November 2022, GE HealthCare and MediView have now for the first time implemented the OmnifyXR, an augmented reality (AR) headset designed to facilitate image-guided medical procedures. This innovative system equips surgeons with a wearable heads-up display, capable of showing up to four information feeds, including X-ray fluoroscopy, ultrasound imaging, and blood flow data, in real-time. By projecting 3D anatomical holograms directly into the surgeon's field of vision, the headset enables more precise and focused operations. Key Features and Benefits: 3D Anatomical Holograms: The headset provides detailed 3D visualizations of patient anatomy, enhancing spatial awareness and precision during procedures. Multi-Feed Display: Integrates various imaging modalities like X-ray, ultrasound, and blood flow data into a single view. Enhanced Focus and Sterility: Surgeons can interact with holographic models without diverting their gaze or compromising sterility, as hand gestures can manipulate the 3D images. Remote Collaboration: The system supports remote viewing and collaboration, allowing clinicians to consult in real-time from different locations. Initial Deployment: The OmnifyXR has been successfully deployed at North Star Vascular and Interventional in Minneapolis. In its initial use, the headset has aided in procedures to address problematic arteries, demonstrating its potential to improve surgical outcomes and operational efficiency. Future Prospects: The introduction of the OmnifyXR marks a significant step forward in medical technology, potentially setting a new standard for image-guided procedures. Its ability to merge advanced imaging with AR technology could lead to widespread adoption in various surgical fields, enhancing the precision and safety of medical interventions. This collaboration between GE HealthCare and MediView represents a significant advancement in the integration of AR technology within the medical field, promising improved patient outcomes and streamlined surgical procedures. Author BioFocus Newsroom Previous Next

< Back 29th – 30th January, 2025 Philadelphia, PA 5th Risk-Based Quality Management Summit Clinical operations teams must always be prepared with the latest strategies for monitoring and managing risk. The 5th Risk-Based Quality Management Summit features all-new insights on building a quality culture, maintaining compliance throughout change management, and securing buy-in and support from executive leadership for your risk planning strategy. Join us in January 2025 for the most in-depth industry event on this subject! Previous Register now Next

The introduction of ISO/IEC 17025-accredited methods for oils and tinctures reflects rising expectations for analytical robustness as cannabinoid formulations diversify and regulatory scrutiny intensifies. < Back Broughton Expands Accredited Cannabinoid Testing The introduction of ISO/IEC 17025-accredited methods for oils and tinctures reflects rising expectations for analytical robustness as cannabinoid formulations diversify and regulatory scrutiny intensifies. An independent partner in regulated life sciences Broughton is an independent UK-based life sciences contract research organisation and scientific consultancy, supporting companies operating in highly regulated markets where confidence in data is critical. From its GMP-compliant, ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratories in Lancashire and North Yorkshire, the company provides analytical testing and regulatory support to clients across pharmaceuticals, healthcare, consumer health and emerging life science sectors, working with organisations at every stage of the product lifecycle. Over nearly two decades, Broughton has built its reputation on scientific rigour, regulatory credibility and transparency, combining in-house analytical capability with regulatory and scientific insight. This integrated approach has positioned the company as a trusted partner for organisations navigating complex development pathways and increasing regulatory scrutiny. Expanding accredited cannabinoid analytics Broughton has begun 2026 with the introduction of ISO/IEC 17025-accredited analytical methods for the quantitative determination of cannabinoids in oils and tinctures, marking a significant expansion of its capabilities in one of the life sciences sector’s most technically demanding and closely scrutinised areas. The methods, based on high-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS), also apply to selected e-liquids and reflect the growing need for accredited measurement as cannabinoid product formats continue to evolve. Oils and tinctures have diversified rapidly in both concentration and formulation complexity, driven by innovation across medicinal, wellness and adjacent regulated markets. In these oil-based matrices, cannabinoid content can vary depending on raw material source, extraction technique and intended application, making reliable quantification essential for product characterisation, quality assurance and regulatory documentation. Analytical approach and measurement range Broughton’s accredited approach involves dilution of the oil or tincture in solvent, followed by quantitative analysis using calibration curves and internal standard correction to support accuracy. Results can be reported in multiple formats, including milligrams per millilitre, percentage concentration, or milligrams per container, with quantification of Total THC and Total CBD available. This flexibility supports a range of requirements, from formulation development and batch verification through to regulatory submissions. The method also accommodates defined analytical ranges aligned to product strength. For formulations containing up to 20 per cent CBD, quantitation is supported from approximately 2.5 mg/g to 245 mg/g, while higher-strength products above 20 per cent CBD can be measured from around 8 mg/g to beyond 800 mg/g. This enables consistent, accredited measurement across both lower- and higher-dose oils and tinctures. Supporting confidence in formulation and compliance For Development Scientist Rowan Baxendale, the significance lies in the confidence such data provides. The availability of validated, accredited cannabinoid measurement in oil-based products strengthens the evidence base that informs formulation decisions, quality control processes and regulatory compliance, particularly in a market where analytical robustness is under increasing scrutiny. Chief Executive Officer Chris Allen places the development within a broader strategic context. As product formats evolve and regulatory expectations continue to sharpen, having established measurement frameworks in place brings clarity and consistency to how cannabinoids are assessed, supporting both innovation and compliance. Integrated science across the product lifecycle This latest capability builds on Broughton’s long-standing position within the life sciences sector, providing integrated analytical, toxicological and regulatory services to clients worldwide. From early development and analytical strategy through to routine quality control, stability studies and post-market support, the company supports products across their full lifecycle. What has consistently set Broughton apart is the way scientific delivery and regulatory understanding are embedded together. In an environment where regulatory scrutiny is intensifying across pharmaceuticals, medical devices and emerging life science technologies, data must not only be scientifically sound but demonstrably reliable, traceable and generated within systems that can withstand sustained inspection. A sustained record of regulatory compliance That expectation is reflected in Broughton’s compliance record. In 2024, the company successfully completed inspections by both the United Kingdom Accreditation Service and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, with no major or critical observations. These outcomes extended Broughton’s unbroken record of dual ISO 17025 and GMP compliance to 19 years, placing it among a relatively small cohort of UK laboratories to have maintained such consistency over time. The UKAS audit assessed adherence to ISO 17025, the international benchmark for laboratory competence and data integrity, while the MHRA inspection examined GMP compliance across laboratory operations, quality systems and documentation. Together, these frameworks underpin trust in analytical science and regulatory decision-making, particularly where data supports high-value or high-risk development programmes. At Broughton, inspections are approached as part of an ongoing process rather than isolated events. Associate Director of Quality Emmet Tilley describes a culture grounded in openness, where engagement with inspectors is used to refine systems and strengthen practices. Sustained compliance, he notes, reflects an organisational mindset that values rigour and continuous improvement rather than short-term audit success. Consistency under global scrutiny Broughton’s laboratories are routinely inspected not only by UKAS and the MHRA but also by international authorities including the US Food and Drug Administration, reinforcing confidence in data generated for global submissions. For organisations operating across multiple jurisdictions, this consistency can translate into faster decision-making and greater regulatory assurance. As Chris Allen, CEO at Broughton, notes, when development teams trust the integrity of their data, they are able to move forward with greater speed and confidence. That assurance continues to drive Broughton’s investment in technical expertise, digital infrastructure and accredited capability, including its latest expansion in cannabinoid analytics. “Providing accredited analytical methods for oils and tinctures reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting organisations with reliable data,” added Chris Allen, CEO at Broughton. “As product formats evolve, having validated measurement frameworks in place helps ensure consistency and clarity in how cannabinoids are assessed.” In a sector where innovation is advancing rapidly but regulatory tolerance for uncertainty is diminishing, Broughton’s trajectory illustrates how sustained quality management and scientific rigour can act as enablers rather than constraints. By combining accredited analytical science with deep regulatory insight, the company has positioned itself as a long-term partner in development rather than simply a service provider. Author BioFocus Newsroom Previous Next

In-vivo results from both oncology programmes support lead candidate selection, as the UK biotech charts a path toward clinical trials. < Back Laverock Therapeutics Advances CAR-T and Macrophage Programmes with Solid Tumour Data In-vivo results from both oncology programmes support lead candidate selection, as the UK biotech charts a path toward clinical trials. A London-based biotechnology company has reported a set of functional milestones that bring its cancer treatment pipeline meaningfully closer to the clinic. Laverock Therapeutics , which builds therapies around a programmable gene control platform, announced results this month from in-vivo studies across two oncology programmes targeting solid tumours, a disease setting that has long resisted the advances made elsewhere in cancer treatment. The more mature of the two, LVK201, is a CAR-T cell programme. CAR-T therapies have transformed outcomes in blood cancers over the past decade, and the technology is increasingly demonstrating its reach beyond oncology entirely. As BioFocus reported earlier this year , a single administration of CD19-targeted CAR-T therapy induced sustained, treatment-free remission across three severe autoimmune conditions simultaneously, pointing to a broader capacity for immune system recalibration that researchers are only beginning to map. But translating CAR-T success to solid tumours specifically has proven stubbornly difficult. The tumour microenvironment suppresses immune activity, engineered T-cells struggle to persist, and the safety profile of approaches that keep those cells permanently activated has been a persistent concern. Laverock's platform attempts to address all three problems at once. Data from ovarian cancer models, presented at the American Society of Cell and Gene Therapy Annual Meeting in May, showed the technology can improve solid tumour control by hitting three distinct immunomodulatory pathways simultaneously. Crucially, because the system is designed to act only when T-cells are activated rather than continuously, the company says safety is significantly improved compared to alternative approaches. The logic is straightforward: a switch that responds to context causes less collateral damage than one left permanently on. The second programme, LVK301, takes a different biological route. Rather than engineering T-cells, it engineers macrophages, a class of immune cell that plays a central role in how solid tumours defend themselves. Many solid tumours maintain what immunologists call a "cold" microenvironment, essentially an immunosuppressive state that prevents the body's own defences from mounting a meaningful attack. Laverock's macrophage programme has shown it can both restrict tumour growth directly and convert that cold environment to a "hot" one, reopening the tumour to immune attack. If that holds up in further studies, it would represent a meaningful contribution to one of the harder problems in oncology. David Venables, Laverock's CEO, said the results provide "a clear route to lead programme selection and progression into non-clinical studies," adding that solid tumours "remain an area of huge unmet need for cancer patients." Both datasets now inform the company's lead programme selection process. Laverock says it is working with partner organisations to map out non-clinical and clinical strategy, and plans to apply AI and single-cell analytical approaches, backed by over £2.2 million in recently awarded innovation grants, to accelerate platform development. The combined milestones are a credible step forward for a relatively early-stage company. Whether the in-vivo results translate through non-clinical studies and into patients remains to be seen, as it does for all programmes at this stage. But the platform's ability to demonstrate activity across both T-cell and macrophage biology in the same tumour context is notable, and the broader momentum in CAR-T research, spanning oncology and now autoimmune disease, gives companies like Laverock a growing scientific foundation to build on. Laverock Therapeutics is based in London, UK. Further information on the ASCGT data is available via the company's LinkedIn and website. Author BioFocus Newsroom Previous Next

The pharmaceutical industry accounts for almost 5% of the world's total greenhouse gas emissions. We dive into the strategies companies are putting in place to reduce their environmental impact. < Back Top Trends in Pharmaceutical Sustainability for 2025 The pharmaceutical industry accounts for almost 5% of the world's total greenhouse gas emissions. We dive into the strategies companies are putting in place to reduce their environmental impact. Sustainability is becoming a growing focus in the pharmaceutical industry, highlighted by initiatives emerging from UN Climate Change Conferences. With the global pharmaceutical sector producing 55% more greenhouse gas emissions than the automotive industry, it is crucial to tackle these environmental challenges. The industry must prioritise innovative solutions to reduce its carbon footprint and build a greener, cleaner future. Below, we explore the top predicted trends for sustainability in the pharmaceutical industry in 2025. 1. Carbon neutrality and net zero goals One of the primary aims of the Paris COP agreement is to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. Many pharmaceutical companies are making significant progress in addressing scope 1 and scope 2 emissions, which include the direct and indirect production of greenhouse gas emissions from operations. However, 80% of emissions by the industry stem from scope 3, which are those that come indirectly from supply chains, such as raw material extraction, transport, and product disposal. According to The Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI), companies are now assessing their entire life cycle of medicine manufacturing to tackle scope 3 emissions. Many companies, such as Merck, aim to achieve carbon neutrality for Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2025 through sustainable building standards, transitioning from fossil fuels, and using high-quality carbon offsets. Roche and Novo Nordisk already operate on 100% renewable energy , setting a high bar for the industry. Moreover, seven global companies, including AstraZeneca, GSK, Merck KGaA, Novo Nordisk, Roche, Samsung Biologics and Sanofi announced a joint action to reach emission reduction targets and accelerate net zero health systems. By switching to renewable power, green heat solutions, and communicating with various stakeholders including health policy makers and regulators, they have c ommitted to a common framework to reduce greenhouse gases in phase 2 and 3 clinical trials. Despite these goals, further changes are required such as improving supply chain visibility and collaboration with external stakeholders to reduce scope 3 emissions. 2. Water Stewardship Pharmaceutical manufacturing is often water-intensive, but studies show significant opportunities for optimization through solvent recovery, cooling systems, and advanced cleaning operations. Emerging technologies such as reverse osmosis and membrane filtration are gaining popularity due to their ability to both purify and reuse wastewater efficiently. Sanofi has implemented water recycling systems, including rainwater harvesting and optimised cooling systems, which helped reduce its global water withdrawals by 18% in 2023, surpassing its 2030 target of a 15% reduction. Similarly, Novartis uses r everse osmosis units in Singapore to recycle water, highlighting the growing adoption of innovative solutions. Some studies suggest these technologies can potentially reduce water consumption by up to 50% in certain manufacturing facilities. However, scaling these efforts across the industry remains a challenge. 3. Using AI for sustainability Artificial Intelligence (AI) is playing an increasingly prominent role in enhancing sustainability. By capturing real-time data and creating predictive models, AI can optimize energy systems, potentially reducing energy consumption by up to 20% in manufacturing facilities . Companies including Merck have introduced AI tools such as myGPT Suite, an AI digital assistant to aid employees' daily tasks. Similarly, Johnson & Johnson Vision has introduced an AI virtual assistant to provide guidance and resolve queries to consumers interested in wearing contact lenses . While AI can help improve sustainability goals, it relies on immense amounts of electricity and water, further accelerating the emission of greenhouse gases and water scarcity. Additionally, AI systems rely on minerals like cobalt and lithium which have unsustainable and sometimes unethical extraction methods . Hence, the environmental footprint of AI needs to be considered, and whether the benefits outweigh the environmental costs. 4. Focusing on a circular economy A circular economy focuses on reducing waste by reusing and recycling resources, minimizing waste, and decreasing our dependence on the use of finite resources. Pharmaceutical companies are adopting Lean manufacturing principles, integrating technologies like AI, digital twins, and IoT to improve productivity and reduce waste. By adopting circular solutions, companies aim to achieve goals such as decarbonising supply chains and developing resource efficient packaging . While progress is being made, it remains complex to implement circular principles across the entire value chain. 5. Green Chemistry Green chemistry, or sustainable chemistry, involves designing products and processes that reduce or eliminate hazardous substances that cause harm to the environment. Green chemistry procedures include harnessing AI and machine learning for predicting and optimising chemical reactions to become more sustainable, increasing efficiency in late-stage molecule modification, and innovating sustainable catalysts . These procedures are becoming more adopted by companies, as they allow the streamlining of manufacturing processes with reduced environmental impacts and greater efficiency. Boehringer Ingelheim and Pfizer have adopted green chemistry processes for developing drugs, in solvents for research, and in manufacturing. Studies have shown that the application of green chemistry has been linked to a 19% reduction in waste and 56% improvement in productivity in comparison to past production standards. However, challenges include scaling and overcoming both technological and financial barriers. 6. Environmentally friendly packaging Packaging waste, especially single-use plastics, is a significant problem in the pharmaceutical industry, with laboratories sending more than 5.5 million tons of plastics to landfills annually. In the UK, medicines account for 25% of the total NHS carbon footprint . Hence, pharmaceutical companies are shifting towards biodegradable and reusable packaging materials, including bio-based packaging such as sugarcane-derived PET to create pill boxes and silica-based containers for protecting sensitive medications. There is also a push to reduce the number of layers used and enhance package design to use limited materials whilst ensuring the safety of the product. Companies like Pfizer and GSK have adopted paper-based packaging solutions to address sustainability issues. Others are also e xploring the use of 3D-printed packaging as an innovative solution, offering waste reduction and enhanced design flexibility. Smart packaging solutions, such as sensor-enabled bottles that track doses and connect with mobile apps, are also emerging. To reduce the reliance of single-use plastics and therefore reduce energy usage, water consumption, and carbon emissions, the industry must reduce its usage and swap to alternatives and focus on becoming more circular. This widespread adoption will depend on regulations and investment in R&D of new materials and alternatives. 7. Minimising waste Many companies have manufacturing facilities that produce large amounts of waste. However, by minimising factory waste via adopting digital Lean principles, companies such as Cipla achieved a 28% decrease in carbon . Moving towards paperless quality solutions in quality control can significantly reduce the environmental impacts of paper-based processes, which are carbon-intensive, water-heavy, and cause habitat destruction. Furthermore, companies have started to convert waste into commodities. By changing the processes in which these are presented for disposal before collection, waste disposal could be turned into a revenue stream , further contributing towards circularity. 8. Enhancing sustainability in supply chains Pharmaceutical supply chains are energy-intensive and contribute significantly to carbon emissions. Balancing cost efficiency with sustainable practices remains a challenge, as initial investments in energy-efficient equipment can be high. However, these investments often lead to significant long-term savings . Strategies such as sourcing raw materials locally, using electric vehicles for transportation, and partnering with certified green energy providers are helping reduce environmental impact. Additionally, advanced tracking systems allow companies to monitor waste and resource usage effectively and identify areas for improvement. Conclusions As the pharmaceutical industry continues to evolve, these trends demonstrate a clear path towards a more sustainable future. However, the industry still faces significant challenges and has a long road ahead to achieve its sustainability goals. The pharmaceutical sector accounts for 4.4% of the world’s emissions and its footprint is predicted to triple by 2050 if urgent action is not taken, according to the world economic forum. Although companies such as Merck, Pfizer, STADA, Roche, and Novo Nordisk are all seen as leaders in sustainability , the whole industry faces problems including a lack of visibility into operations, challenges in balancing quality standards with sustainability goals, and being short-term oriented. To overcome these problems that are associated with unsustainable practices, companies require long-term organising and planning of sustainable strategies, collaborating with governments, institutions, and partners, and leveraging emerging technologies and investing in scientific innovation to drive change. Author Amrithavarshini Omprakash , freelance contributor Previous Next

< Back Kaia Health Joins Sword Health to Scale AI-Driven Musculoskeletal Care The acquisition brings together European digital therapeutics expertise and an AI-first care platform, signalling a new phase for evidence-based MSK care across public and private health systems. Kaia Health’s acquisition by Sword Health marks a notable consolidation in the digital musculoskeletal care market, bringing together two companies that have played influential roles in shaping how technology-enabled therapy is delivered across healthcare systems. The transaction reflects growing maturity in the sector, as scale, clinical credibility and platform depth become increasingly important to long-term impact. From digital challenger to established care provider Founded with the ambition of widening access to evidence-based care beyond traditional clinical settings, Kaia Health has spent more than a decade building a strong position in digital therapeutics for musculoskeletal and pulmonary conditions. Its growth has been underpinned by clinical validation and regulatory credibility, enabling the company to operate effectively across both European and US healthcare markets. In Germany, Kaia was among the early companies to successfully navigate the country’s digital health reimbursement pathway, helping to establish digital therapies as reimbursable care options for tens of millions of insured citizens. In the US, the company scaled through employer and health plan partnerships, reaching millions of covered lives and demonstrating that digital MSK programmes could deliver measurable outcomes while easing pressure on healthcare budgets. Strengthening an AI-first care platform By joining Sword Health, Kaia becomes part of a broader AI-first healthcare platform that has set benchmarks for engagement, outcomes and cost avoidance in physical care. Sword Health’s model is built around the use of advanced artificial intelligence to personalise and continuously adapt care delivery, enabling clinical-grade interventions to be delivered remotely and at scale. The integration of Kaia’s technology, clinical expertise and European market presence strengthens Sword’s ability to operate across diverse regulatory and reimbursement environments, while accelerating its expansion beyond its original US focus. Continuity and scale for existing partners For existing Kaia users and partners, continuity of care has been positioned as a priority. In the US, members currently using Kaia’s digital MSK programmes will transition onto Sword’s AI Care platform, gaining access to a system designed to optimise adherence and outcomes without disrupting established care pathways. From the perspective of employers and payers, the combined offering represents a more comprehensive approach to musculoskeletal health, supported by robust data, clinical evidence and a demonstrated ability to reduce downstream healthcare utilisation and costs. A European foundation for future growth The European dimension of the acquisition is a key strategic element. Germany’s digital health reimbursement framework has become a reference point for other countries considering how to integrate digital therapeutics into public health systems. Kaia’s established presence within this environment now provides Sword Health with a strong foundation for broader European expansion. This alignment with national health systems underscores a shared commitment to scalable, evidence-based care models that can operate within public reimbursement structures, rather than relying solely on private or employer-funded routes. Complementary strengths and a shared direction At a strategic level, the acquisition brings together complementary capabilities. Kaia contributes deep experience in regulated digital therapeutics, a strong European footprint and a proven clinical track record. Sword Health adds advanced AI capabilities, global scale and an expanding portfolio that already spans physical health and is moving into women’s and mental health. Together, the combined organisation is positioned to approach musculoskeletal care as part of a broader, integrated view of chronic health management, rather than as an isolated digital solution. What it signals for the digital health sector As healthcare systems face rising demand, workforce constraints and ongoing cost pressures, this acquisition highlights the direction of travel for digital health. Scale, clinical validation and intelligent use of data are increasingly essential to delivering sustainable impact. Kaia Health’s transition into the Sword Health ecosystem points to a next phase for digital therapeutics, one shaped less by standalone point solutions and more by platforms capable of delivering continuous, adaptive care across populations and geographies. For industry professionals, the deal serves both as a validation of digital MSK care and as a signal of how AI-driven healthcare models are likely to evolve. Author BioFocus Newsroom Previous Next

< Back Sanome Expands NHS Rollout of AI Infection Detection Platform with Innovate UK £300k Hospital partnerships and £300k Innovate UK SMART funding grant accelerate national deployment of MEMORI for earlier HAI detection. Sanome is accelerating the NHS deployment of its AI-powered infection detection platform following two new hospital partnerships and the award of an Innovate UK SMART grant worth over £300,000. Part of the national innovation funding programme, SMART grants provide financial support for feasibility studies, industrial research or experimental development projects, typically backing early- to mid-stage R&D that has strong market potential and clear economic or societal benefit. The UK healthtech company’s platform, MEMORI, became the country’s first multimodal Class IIb CE-marked AI Software as a Medical Device for infection prediction last year. Designed to detect hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) sooner than standard practice, MEMORI analyses real-time patient data and integrates directly into electronic patient record (EPR) systems, bringing predictive insight into clinicians’ existing workflows. The current state of the NHS Although there is now very definitely light at the end of the tunnel, the winter of 2025 to 2026 has again tested NHS capacity. Delayed discharges have placed sustained strain on hospital flow, with the proportion of bed days occupied by patients medically fit for discharge rising from 10.1% in 2024 to 11% in 2025. That 9% increase equates to approximately 19,000 additional bed days, further limiting available capacity during peak seasonal demand. Reduced bed availability has a direct knock-on effect across urgent and emergency care, contributing to congestion in emergency departments and longer waits during periods of heightened activity. Yet the picture is not solely one of pressure. Despite battling what has been described as the busiest winter on record, NHS England recently reported that the elective care waiting list has fallen to its lowest level in nearly three years. The data signals steady progress in recovery efforts even as operational challenges persist. This dual reality, persistent system strain alongside measurable improvement, underscores the importance of tools that can prevent avoidable deterioration. Earlier identification of infection risk has the potential to shorten hospital stays, reduce complications, and ease pressure on constrained bed capacity. Furthermore, HAIs remain one of the most serious and costly challenges facing the NHS, contributing to over seven million additional patient bed days and £2.7 billion in annual care costs. Early detection is critical for preventing deterioration, easing clinical pressures, and improving patient outcomes. Two hospital partnerships extend national footprint Against this backdrop, Sanome has confirmed new partnerships with the Royal Hospital for Neuro-disability and East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust. Back in December 2025, the Royal Hospital for Neuro-disability became the first specialist neuro facility to embed MEMORI into routine care, first integrating with the PatientSource EPR to cover four wards. Patients with complex neurological conditions are among the most vulnerable to infection-related complications; more than six in ten intensive care patients contract at least one hospital-acquired infection during their stay. East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust, one of England’s largest acute trusts, will also deploy MEMORI within its EPR infrastructure. The collaboration is intended to establish a scalable model for secure, real-time NHS data access across multiple hospital sites. Hospital-acquired infections (such as pneumonia, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Clostridium difficile (C. difficile)) remain a major clinical and financial burden, accounting for more than 7.1 million excess bed days and an estimated £2.7 billion in annual costs. Research indicates that between 35% and 55% of infections may be preventable with earlier detection and intervention. MEMORI uses explainable clinical AI to identify emerging infection risk from multimodal data streams. Early studies associated with the certified product have shown the potential to surface life-threatening infection predictions up to three days earlier than standard practice. Preliminary data also indicate it outperforms the NHS-standard National Early Warning Score (NEWS2) system in detecting deterioration. “Partnering with leading healthcare organisations like the Royal Hospital for Neuro-disability and East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust marks another major step towards bringing earlier, data-driven infection detection into everyday care for every patient,” said Benedikt von Thüngen, Founder and CEO of Sanome. “Working closely with clinicians, we’ve co-created a platform that not only flags those at risk but fits seamlessly into existing workflows. Our aim is to equip frontline teams with the actionable insights they need to intervene sooner and protect patients, at the same time relieving pressure on already-stretched resources.” Beyond rollout at the Royal Hospital for Neuro-disability and East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust, additional NHS deployments are planned throughout 2026 with initial data suggesting MEMORI outperforms the NHS-standard National Early Warning Score (NEWS2) system in detecting deterioration. Innovate UK funding supports next-generation development Alongside the hospital rollouts, Sanome has secured an Innovate UK SMART grant in collaboration with the NIHR HealthTech Research Centre in Sustainable Innovation to advance MEMORI’s next phase of development (termed MEMORI v2). The 18-month programme will support enhancements to the platform, including integration of additional multimodal data inputs such as laboratory results, prescriptions and clinical notes. It will also focus on further scalable EPR integration, improved explainability, and optimisation of machine-learning performance. The project aims to increase predictability by a further 20%, extending the window for early intervention and ultimately increasing the chance of saving lives. MEMORI alerts clinical teams up to seven days before signs of infection, creating additional time to act before symptoms escalate. MEMORI v2 will undergo large-scale live validation across multiple wards at Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, targeting one of the NHS’s most persistent patient safety challenges. “Our mission is to prevent deterioration before it becomes life-threatening. MEMORI shows how real-world NHS data, when safely and securely unlocked, can be transformed into actionable bedside insights that change outcomes using the power of multimodal AI. Working with the Exeter HealthTech Research Centre, with support from Innovate UK, allows us to demonstrate both the clinical and system-wide benefits of AI in one of the UK’s leading NHS Trusts,” said von Thüngen. Dr Nick Kennedy, Digital Innovation and AI Theme Lead at the NIHR HRC in Sustainable Innovation and Consultant Gastroenterologist at the Royal Devon, added: “Hospital-acquired infections remain one of the biggest threats to patient safety, particularly for vulnerable patients with complex conditions. That means early intervention is vital. By co-designing MEMORI with the support of Innovate UK, we are proud to be among the first to test such technology and show how AI can support clinicians, transform patient care and ultimately save lives.” Chris Sawyer, Innovation Lead Digital Health, Innovate UK added: “Supporting the safe introduction of AI into frontline NHS care is a vital step towards building a more resilient and patient-centred health service. This partnership with Sanome and Royal Devon is a strong example of how innovation and clinical expertise can come together to tackle long-standing challenges like hospital-acquired infections.” The first impact data from the large-scale deployment is expected later in 2026, alongside further rollout across NHS and healthcare organisations in the UK. As NHS leaders continue to balance recovery targets with sustained operational pressure, technologies that promise to prevent avoidable deterioration are likely to attract growing interest. Now embedded in routine care at the Royal Hospital for Neuro-disability, and going live in NHS settings including East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust and Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust in the coming months, each new deployment will contribute to a growing body of real-world outcome data. Building on encouraging early findings, this next phase will generate the robust evidence needed to further validate clinical impact, refine integration across diverse NHS environments, and demonstrate system-wide cost-effectiveness. Frontline staff experience will remain central to that process, ensuring MEMORI continues to support clinical judgement, reduce cognitive burden, and enhance rather than disrupt the workflows of the teams it is designed to serve. Author BioFocus Newsroom Previous Next

< Back Impulse Dynamics Secures $158M to Accelerate Heart Failure Pipeline Financing follows major CMS coverage decision for CCM therapy and supports next-generation heart failure devices. Impulse Dynamics has closed a $158 million financing round to support strategic growth, expand commercialization, and advance its clinical and technology pipelines for heart failure therapies. The funding round was anchored by new institutional investors Sands Capital and Braidwell, with continued support from existing investors including Redmile, Perceptive, and Alger, as well as several prominent industry executives. The investment underscores growing confidence in Impulse Dynamics’ vision and its role in addressing unmet needs in heart failure care. The financing follows a major regulatory milestone for the company: a recent Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) National Coverage Determination (NCD) for Cardiac Contractility Modulation (CCM®) therapy. The decision expands access to CCM therapy for more than 66 million Medicare beneficiaries and formally establishes the therapy as no longer experimental or investigational. CCM therapy was also selected as one of only five technologies for inclusion in CMS’s Transitional Coverage for Emerging Technologies (TCET) pathway in 2025. To date, more than 12,000 patients have received CCM therapy worldwide. The NCD removes a significant reimbursement barrier, paving the way for broader adoption among heart failure patients who continue to experience debilitating symptoms despite optimal medical therapy. Impulse Dynamics plans to use the new capital to expand access to CCM therapy while accelerating development of next-generation technologies, including the investigational CCM-D® HF System. The single device is designed to deliver both CCM therapy for heart failure symptom relief and implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) therapy, which provides life-saving protection against sudden cardiac death. The company is also advancing several key clinical trials. These include the INTEGRA-D trial, which is evaluating the CCM-D HF System in patients who already require an ICD, and the AIM HIGHer trial, focused on patients with diastolic heart failure, an area with limited treatment options that represents approximately half of all heart failure cases. With a strengthened balance sheet, expanding reimbursement coverage, and a growing clinical pipeline, Impulse Dynamics is positioning itself as a leader in device-based therapies aimed at improving quality of life for people living with heart failure. Author BioFocus Newsroom Previous Next

In a phase 1 study, 81% of patients responded to IL18-boosted therapy, with over half achieving complete remission. < Back Breakthrough "Armoured" CAR T-Cell Therapy Shows Promising Results in Tough-to-Treat Lymphomas In a phase 1 study, 81% of patients responded to IL18-boosted therapy, with over half achieving complete remission. CAR T-cell therapy revolutionized cancer treatment by using a patient’s own immune cells to target blood cancers. However, its impact has been limited by relapse and resistance , especially in B-cell lymphomas—where more than half of patients do not achieve lasting remission after receiving current FDA-approved therapies. Researchers at Penn Medicine have developed a new, next-generation version of this therapy, called huCART19-IL18, designed to overcome these challenges. Unlike traditional CAR T cells, this “armoured” version not only targets cancer cells but also secretes interleukin-18 (IL18), a molecule that enhances immune activity and supports the engineered cells within the tumor microenvironment. In a recently published phase 1 study in the New England Journal of Medicine , the results were highly encouraging. Among 21 patients with aggressive, treatment-resistant B-cell lymphomas, most of whom had received multiple prior therapies, including earlier-generation CAR T products, 81% experienced tumor shrinkage, and 52% achieved complete remission. Some patients have remained in remission for over two years, suggesting durable responses may be possible with this approach. Importantly, the therapy did not introduce new or unexpected safety issues. Side effects such as cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity remained consistent with those observed in standard CAR T therapies and were manageable using existing treatment protocols. The strategy behind huCART19-IL18 centers on boosting the immune system’s ability to sustain its attack on cancer cells. Like most other CAR T therapies for B-cell lymphoma, the engineered T cells are designed to recognize the CD19 protein found on malignant cells. What sets this therapy apart is its built-in production of IL18, a pro-inflammatory cytokine that helps activate and recruit other immune cells, reinforcing the overall immune response. This addition appears to counteract common barriers to CAR T-cell effectiveness, such as immune suppression within the tumor environment and T-cell exhaustion. Early biological data collected during the study supports the idea that IL18 significantly contributed to the high response rates observed. One of the other major innovations of the Penn team is a streamlined manufacturing process that reduces production time for the CAR T cells from the standard 9–14 days down to just three. For patients with fast-growing cancers, this shorter turnaround can make a critical difference, allowing treatment to begin before the disease progresses further. There’s also evidence that this quicker manufacturing timeline may improve the therapeutic potency of the T cells. This study marks the first time a cytokine-enhanced CAR T-cell therapy has been tested in patients with blood cancer, and the implications extend well beyond lymphoma. The underlying concept, arming CAR T cells with immune-boosting cytokines, could be applied to other cancers, including those where CAR T therapies have historically shown limited success, such as solid tumors. Building on these results, the researchers are preparing additional clinical trials, including studies targeting acute lymphoblastic leukemia and chronic lymphocytic leukemia. A trial for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma using a similar IL18-enhanced CAR T product is already underway. Efforts are also ongoing to refine and scale the manufacturing process in partnership with a biotechnology spinout, with the goal of expanding access to these advanced therapies. Beyond clinical outcomes, the data generated from this trial is providing valuable insight into how and why CAR T therapies fail in some cases, helping guide future improvements in treatment design and patient selection. This therapy represents a significant step forward in the evolution of personalized cancer immunotherapy, offering new hope for patients with few remaining options, and potentially laying the groundwork for broader applications in oncology. Author BioFocus Newsroom Previous Next

BAFFR-targeted CAR T cell therapy shows promise in treating relapsed follicular lymphoma. < Back PeproMene Bio Reports Complete Remission in First Follicular Lymphoma Patient from Phase 1 Trial BAFFR-targeted CAR T cell therapy shows promise in treating relapsed follicular lymphoma. PeproMene Bio, Inc . (PMB), a clinical-stage biotechnology firm focused on developing innovative treatments for cancer and immune-related conditions, announced that the first follicular lymphoma (FL) patient enrolled in its Phase 1 PMB-102 study has reached complete remission just one month after receiving therapy. The ongoing PMB-102 trial is evaluating PMB-CT01, a BAFFR-targeted CAR T cell therapy, in patients with relapsed or refractory (r/r) B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (B-NHL). The company confirmed that this latest result brings the total number of patients achieving complete remission (CR) in the study to seven, all of whom have shown durable responses with a safety profile described as manageable. "We are excited to report that a patient with r/r FL has achieved complete remission after treatment with PMB-CT01, bringing the total to seven patients—all achieving a 100% CR rate with durable responses and a manageable safety profile. Notably, this patient had previously undergone 7 prior lines of therapy including chemoimmunotherapies, CD19 CAR T cells, an investigational trispecific antibody, and an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC). Remarkably, the patient experienced no CRS or ICANS," said Elizabeth Budde M.D., Ph.D., lead principal investigator for the study and associate professor of hematology at City of Hope, one of the country’s leading cancer research and treatment centers. Follicular lymphoma is recognized as the most prevalent slow-progressing type of B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma, accounting for roughly 20% of NHL cases in the United States. Although current therapies can help manage the disease, FL remains incurable, and relapse is common. With each recurrence, remission tends to become shorter, and the need for new treatment strategies becomes more urgent. "IFLI is dedicated to accelerating the development of innovative treatment options for patients with r/r FL," said Dr. Michel Azoulay, M.D., Chief Medical Officer at the Institute for Follicular Lymphoma Innovation. "I am very excited that PMB-CT01 has shown promising efficacy and safety in this first FL patient." Hazel Cheng, Ph.D., Chief Operating Officer at PeproMene Bio, added: "Most of the PMB-102 trial participants relapsed after CD19 CAR T therapy and/or presented with CD19 negative tumors. PMB-CT01 could present a viable alternative option for patients facing this challenging scenario. We are deeply committed to the development of this first-in-class BAFFR CAR T therapy and are excited to advance our study into a multi-site expansion phase that will include r/r MCL, DLBCL and FL patients." Author BioFocus Newsroom Previous Next