Ambient intelligence and bioprinting are some of the big technologies that researchers predict may become "game changers" in healthcare over the next year, according to a recent CB Insights report.

Recent survey data showed 42 percent of consumers said they would spend less or switch completely from brands that haven't delivered a satisfying digital experience during the pandemic, incentivizing healthcare organizations to ramp up their digital platforms. 

Columbus will become the third city in Ohio to establish a state-funded medical innovation district, according to a Feb. 17 report from local radio station WOSU.

University of California San Diego researchers have created a skin patch that is worn on the neck to continuously monitor blood pressure and heart rate while measuring the user's glucose, lactate, alcohol or caffeine levels.

Cleveland Clinic is building a biorepository slated to start operations in June, which it hopes to incorporate into the newly-founded Cleveland Innovation District, Cleveland.com reported Feb. 17.

Sharecare, an Atlanta-based digital health company, recently announced it will merge with special purpose acquisition company Falcon Capital Acquisition in a deal that will value the company at about $3.9 billion. 

Kroger Health announced Feb. 16 that it plans to offer a smartphone-enabled, at-home rapid COVID-19 antigen test kit to patients across the country.

Minneapolis-based University of Minnesota partnered with Google Cloud to create an education program for students pursuing healthcare careers, the university announced Feb. 12.

More than three-fourths of American workers want their employer to offer online mental health services as a part of their benefits, according to research released Feb. 16 by online mental health services provider SilverCloud Health.

Hospitals and health systems across the U.S. have accelerated digital transformation efforts in order to maintain communication and relationships with their patients while promoting safety from COVID-19.

In recent weeks, big tech companies have been lending their expertise, money and labor to the country's COVID-19 vaccination effort.

Here are nine recent health IT vendor contracts and go-lives accelerating digital transformation efforts at healthcare organizations.

Facebook is developing a smartwatch that will integrate the platform's messaging and social features with health and fitness products from companies such as Peleton, according to a Feb. 12 Business Insider report.

Ask almost any healthcare consultant what it is they wish they had access to, and nine out of 10 times, they’ll say extensive clinical and financial data.

Bethlehem, Pa.-based St. Luke's University Health Network is deploying a new automated scheduling system next week that will call individuals eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine and let them self-schedule their appointments over the phone. 

Equip, a company that delivers virtual eating disorder treatment, on Feb. 10 closed a $13 million series A funding round led by Optum's venture capital arm, bringing its total amount of funds raised to $17 million.

Tech giants and healthcare software companies have developed more voice-enabled features in recent years to make clinical workflows more efficient and bring greater convenience to at-home care.

Little Rock, Ark.-based Baptist Health and Mercy Fort Smith said Feb. 9 they will invest $1 million in a healthcare sciences innovation center for students in the Fort Smith, Ark., area.

Patients don't want to navigate different web pages and apps to manage their healthcare responsibilities — they expect a one-stop shop.

Hospitals and health systems across the U.S. are pushing digital transformation efforts forward by creating new tools and launching innovative programs.