Global Scans · Health Futures · Weekly Summary

• [New] The chronic disease epidemic is reshaping Australia's healthcare landscape in ways that create massive opportunities. Journal
• [New] By 2025, telehealth will cover a broad range of services, including primary care, follow-up visits, and specialty consultations. Brain Health USA
• Novo invested $220 million in Denmark to build a raw materials plant scheduled 2027, as chronic-disease drug demand rises. IntuitionLabs
• Risk factors such as obesity, smoking, and air pollution play a major role in driving chronic disease - and if they were addressed, nearly half of all deaths and disability globally could be prevented. Euronews
• As telehealth becomes integral to healthcare delivery systems equipped with robust remote-care functionalities will be instrumental in shaping the future of medical services globally. Market Data Forecast
• Proposed rules pending before the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and the Drug Enforcement Agency could further expand telehealth access. National Law Review
• Novo Nordisk plans to expand access to Wegovy through a collaboration with WeightWatchers, days after ending a partnership with telehealth firm Hims & Hers to sell the weight-loss drug. Morningstar, Inc.
• 47% of accountable care organizations in the U.S. will rely on ML for long-term chronic disease management plans in 2025. SQ Magazine
• In Florida, digital equity means a future where every Floridian benefits from a connected economy through the meaningful use of high-speed Internet - to enhance educational and employment opportunities, access telehealth, and engage with families, and local communities. Benton Foundation
• The integration of telehealth services is projected to increase patient engagement by over 30% by 2025, thereby improving health outcomes for residents in premium care communities. openpr
• The US government shutdown could lead to telehealth, ambulance payment, and insurance cost disruptions. AJMC
• If Congress does not extend the telehealth flexibilities, Medicare beneficiaries could be on the hook for payment. Mondaq
• Originating sites are now required, so Medicare patients will no longer be able to receive telehealth services in their homes. American College of Cardiology
• While Medicare telehealth flexibilities are terminated, most commercial plans (including Medicare Advantage plans) and Medicaid still provide coverage for telehealth under CMS's telehealth flexibilities framework. McDermott
• ATA Action announced it has endorsed the Telehealth Modernization Act that would extend telehealth flexibilities through fiscal year 2027. MedicalEconomics
• Audio-Only Telehealth Permitted: Medicare will continue to cover audio-only behavioral telehealth services without requiring video. National Law Review
• Telehealth could represent up to 30% of U.S. medical appointments, pending regulatory decisions by Congress. MedicalEconomics

Last updated: 25 October 2025