Portable Tool to Diagnose and Monitor Sickle Cell Disease Receives U.S. Patent

A new tool will enable patients with sickle cell disease to reliably and conveniently monitor their disease in the same way patients with diabetes can monitor their disease using a glucometer. The goal of managing this inherited, lifelong blood disorder is to prevent acute, painful crises due to sickling and unsickling of red blood cells.

Healthworx and LifeBridge Health Launch Startup Incubator: 1501 Health

Healthworx, the innovation and investment arm of CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, is partnering with LifeBridge Health to launch 1501 Health, an incubator for healthcare startups. 1501 Health will provide investment and resources to help early-stage companies, located regionally or nationally, develop their healthcare solutions. Companies participating in the program will receive up to $100,000 in investment and have access to unique mentorship and support from payer and provider experts, along with networking and educational events with other startups, investors and stakeholders.

Middle-Aged Adults Worried About Health Insurance Costs Now, Uncertain for Future

Health insurance costs weigh heavily on the minds of many middle-aged adults, and many are worried for what they’ll face in retirement or if federal health policies change, according to a new study. More than a quarter of people in their 50s and early 60s lack confidence that they’ll be able to afford health insurance in the next year, and the number goes up to nearly half when they look ahead to retirement.