logo
Just two visits a year: Longer ARV scripts, shorter clinic lines

Just two visits a year: Longer ARV scripts, shorter clinic lines

News2428-07-2025
'I can plan my life now' — Neliswa Nkwali, living with HIV for 25 years, says 6MMD has brought her freedom from clinic queues.
6MMD (six multi-month dispensing) allows stable HIV patients to collect medication only twice a year, cutting down clinic visits.
Western Cape clinics began 6MMD last year, easing pressure on staff and improving retention in care through ARV clubs for stable patients.
From August, clinics countrywide will issue patients who are doing well on their ARVs, a six-month supply, twice a year. 6MMD is widespread in Africa and started in the Western Cape last year. How will it work? Health Beat catches up with two Cape clinics.
newsletter.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

AI and Molecular Diagnostics Set to Revolutionize Endocarditis Management
AI and Molecular Diagnostics Set to Revolutionize Endocarditis Management

Yahoo

time27 minutes ago

  • Yahoo

AI and Molecular Diagnostics Set to Revolutionize Endocarditis Management

Endocarditis, a heart infection caused by bacteria in the bloodstream, is experiencing growing incidence due to rising healthcare-associated infections, intravenous drug use, and aging populations with prosthetic valves. Advances in diagnostic imaging, AI-assisted echocardiography, and minimally invasive cardiac procedures are improving detection and patient outcomes. However, challenges like early detection difficulties and antimicrobial resistance persist. North America leads in the endocarditis market, with significant growth seen in the Asia-Pacific due to increased cardiovascular cases and healthcare investments. Key players like Pfizer and Teva Pharmaceutical are driving innovations in the sector. Dublin, Aug. 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Endocarditis Market - A Global and Regional Analysis: Focus on Type, Treatment Type, and Region - Analysis and Forecast, 2025-2035" report has been added to an infection of the heart's inner lining and valves, is primarily caused by bacteria entering the bloodstream. Diagnosis and treatment involve prolonged antibiotic regimens, blood cultures, imaging, and in severe cases, valve replacement surgery. Technological advancements in diagnostic imaging and minimally invasive cardiac procedures are significantly improving detection and recovery the rise in healthcare-associated infections, intravenous drug use, and an aging population with prosthetic valves are amplifying disease incidence challenges remain in early detection due to nonspecific symptoms, rising antimicrobial resistance, and management complexity in comorbid patients. The integration of AI-assisted echocardiography, molecular diagnostics, and next-generation antibiotics is expected to redefine the landscape of endocarditis management in the coming innovations in imaging (such as 3D echocardiography), real-time pathogen detection, and antibiotic therapy optimization are reshaping clinical management. Increased focus on infection control, early intervention, and precision medicine is also enhancing patient outcomes and reducing treatment America is projected to lead the market owing to advanced healthcare systems, high prevalence of risk factors, and early access to diagnostics and surgical interventions. Europe holds a significant share due to strong infectious disease monitoring and public health programs. The Asia-Pacific region is witnessing the fastest growth, driven by rising cardiovascular burden, increasing access to tertiary care, and government investments in infectious disease control. How can this report add value to an organization? Product/Innovation: This report provides comprehensive insights into the current trends in endocarditis, helping companies identify opportunities for drug and technology development. Organizations can leverage these insights to design therapies, medications, and platforms tailored to the needs of patients suffering from endocarditis, improving outcomes and enhancing market A detailed competitive landscape analysis helps organizations benchmark their market standing against key players. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of competitors, companies can position themselves more effectively in the global endocarditis market. Key Market Players and Competition SynopsisThe companies profiled in this report have been selected based on their market presence, product portfolio, and competitive positioning in the global endocarditis market. Demand Drivers and Limitations Demand Drivers for the Global Endocarditis Market: Increasing incidence of bloodstream infections and valve-related complications Advances in diagnostic modalities including imaging and molecular testing Expansion of minimally invasive cardiac surgeries Aging population with higher susceptibility to cardiac infections Limitations for the Global Endocarditis Market: Diagnostic delays due to symptom overlap with other cardiac conditions Increasing antimicrobial resistance complicating treatment High cost and complexity of long-term therapy and surgical management Leading players in the global endocarditis market include: Pfizer Inc. Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. Viatris Inc Fresenius Kabi Basilea Pharmaceutica Ltd Phaxiam Hikma Pharmaceuticals PLC Advacare Pharma Sandoz AG Key Topics Covered: 1. Global Endocarditis Market: Industry Analysis1.1 Market Overview and Ecosystem1.2 Epidemiological Analysis1.3 Key Market Trends1.3.1 Impact Analysis1.4 Patent Analysis1.4.1 Patent Filing Trend (by Country)1.4.2 Patent Filing Trend (by Year)1.5 Regulatory Landscape1.6 Ongoing Clinical Trials1.7 Market Dynamics1.7.1 Overview1.7.2 Market Drivers1.7.3 Market Restraints1.7.4 Market Opportunities2. Global Endocarditis Market, by Type, $Million, 2023-20352.1 Infective Endocarditis2.2 Non-Infective Endocarditis3. Global Endocarditis Market, by Treatment Type, $Million, 2023-20353.1 Antibiotics3.2 Antifungal Medications3.3 Surgery3.4 Others4. Global Endocarditis Market, by Region, $Million, 2023-20354.1 North America4.1.1 Market Dynamics4.1.2 Market Sizing and Forecast4.1.3 North America Endocarditis Market, by Country4.1.3.1 U.S.4.2 Europe4.2.1 Market Dynamics4.2.2 Market Sizing and Forecast4.2.3 Europe Endocarditis Market, by Country4.2.3.1 U.K.4.2.3.2 France4.2.3.3 Germany4.2.3.4 Italy4.2.3.5 Spain4.3 Asia-Pacific4.3.1 Market Dynamics4.3.2 Market Sizing and Forecast4.3.3 Asia-Pacific Endocarditis Market, by Country4.3.3.1 Japan5. Global Endocarditis Market, Competitive Landscape and Company Profiles5.1 Competitive Landscape5.1.1 Mergers and Acquisitions5.1.2 Partnership, Alliances and Business Expansion5.1.3 New Offerings5.1.4 Regulatory Activities5.1.5 Funding Activities5.2 Company Profiles5.2.1 Overview5.2.2 Top Products / Product Portfolio5.2.3 Top Competitors5.2.4 Target Customers/End-Users5.2.5 Key Personnel5.2.6 Analyst View For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900

Stellenbosch University confirms student died of meningitis, starts contact tracing
Stellenbosch University confirms student died of meningitis, starts contact tracing

News24

time30 minutes ago

  • News24

Stellenbosch University confirms student died of meningitis, starts contact tracing

A Stellenbosch University student has died of meningococcal meningitis. He was found dead in his residence room over the weekend. The university has started contract tracing. The death of a Stellenbosch University student, whose body was found in his residence over the weekend, was due to meningococcal meningitis. In a statement, Stellenbosch University said: 'To this background, the university confirms that it has been informed that the Matie student, who passed away over the weekend, Chris Scheffers, died of meningococcal meningitis.' Meningitis is endemic to the Western Cape, where it circulates more commonly during the winter months. Most cases occur without a clearly identifiable source of contact. The university said that detailed contact tracing of people who were in close contact with Scheffers over the past 10 days was under way. A chemoprophylaxis (a preventative medication) will be issued within the next 24 hours to reduce the risk of infection. 'In this regard, Campus Health Services will directly engage with and medically advise those identified as close contacts over the next 24 hours. These include both students and staff,' the university said. READ | 'I am so broken' - Foster mom after Maties student, 19, found dead inside campus residence 'As this strain of meningitis can spread in close-contact environments and is considered serious, the protocols of the university's Campus Health Services have been activated – guided by provincial and national health policies – with the university working in close partnership with the Western Cape government: Health and Wellness to ensure all relevant protocols and preventative measures are adhered to. 'Detailed contact tracing of people who were in close contact with Mr Scheffers over the past 10 days is under way so that chemoprophylaxis (a preventative medication) can be issued within the next 24 hours to reduce [the] risk of infection. In this regard, Campus Health Services will directly engage with and medically advise those identified as close contacts over the next 24 hours. These include both students and staff.' The university said that no further confirmed cases had been reported, but that it 'will continue to monitor the situation and contacts very closely over the next few days'. It continued: If there are any concerning symptoms experienced by close contacts after receiving their chemoprophylaxis, they are advised to seek medical assessment urgently. In accordance with protocol, identified close contacts are encouraged to only attend lectures if asymptomatic, and wear masks in lectures and avoid gatherings (for example singing in groups) and not take part in contact sport. 'As a precautionary measure, all general meetings and gatherings in the Dagbreek residence (where Scheffers resided) have been postponed until the weekend.' According to Campus Health, the bacterial infection initially presents itself with flu-like symptoms – headaches, muscle pains, joint pains and photophobia (sensitivity to light) – which then become steadily worse: high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, vomiting, diarrhoea or stomach pains, painful joints, cold hands and feet, seizures; and/or drowsiness that can deteriorate into a coma. A red or purple rash may also appear, which does not disappear when pressed. News24 previously reported that the second-year theology student was found dead inside his room at the Dagbreek student residence on Saturday afternoon. Western Cape police spokesperson, Captain FC van Wyk, said when police arrived at the residence, they were escorted by security to a room on the second floor, where they found the body of the student 'lying on his back on the bed'. Police said an inquest docket had been opened for further investigation. The head of the Dagbreek residence, Grant Leukes, described Scheffers as an 'energetic young man' who played a 'big part' in Dagbreek's serenade group over the past two years. 'He loved the community he stayed in. We will all miss him dearly, and we send our heartfelt condolences to his family," he said.

Hims & Hers Health Inc (HIMS) Q2 2025 Earnings Call Highlights: Robust Revenue Growth Amid ...
Hims & Hers Health Inc (HIMS) Q2 2025 Earnings Call Highlights: Robust Revenue Growth Amid ...

Yahoo

timean hour ago

  • Yahoo

Hims & Hers Health Inc (HIMS) Q2 2025 Earnings Call Highlights: Robust Revenue Growth Amid ...

Revenue: $545 million, a 73% year-over-year increase. Adjusted EBITDA Margin: Over 15%. Subscribers: Increased by 73,000 quarter over quarter to over 2.4 million, a 31% year-over-year growth rate. Monthly Average Revenue per Subscriber: Declined quarter over quarter to $74 from $84. Gross Margin: Expanded 3 points quarter over quarter to 76%. Cash and Short-term Investments: Over $1.1 billion at the end of the second quarter. Free Cash Flow: Negative $69 million for the second quarter. Third Quarter Revenue Guidance: Expected between $570 million to $590 million. Full Year Revenue Guidance: Expected between $2.3 billion and $2.4 billion. Full Year Adjusted EBITDA Guidance: Expected between $295 million to $335 million. Warning! GuruFocus has detected 5 Warning Sign with HIMS. Release Date: August 04, 2025 For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript. Positive Points Hims & Hers Health Inc (NYSE:HIMS) reported a 73% year-over-year revenue growth to $545 million in Q2 2025, with an adjusted EBITDA margin exceeding 15%. The company is expanding its platform with new specialties, including hormonal health, which is expected to address significant health issues for both men and women. Hims & Hers Health Inc (NYSE:HIMS) successfully acquired ZAVA, enhancing its presence in the UK and establishing a foundation for further expansion in Europe and Canada. The company is investing in AI and technology to enhance personalized care, aiming to provide 24/7 support and improve patient engagement. Hims & Hers Health Inc (NYSE:HIMS) plans to offer lab testing as a standalone service, which is expected to empower customers with better health insights and proactive health management. Negative Points The company faced headwinds from off-boarding GLP-1 subscribers on commercially available dosages, impacting revenue recognition. There is a decline in the on-demand sexual health subscriber base, which is expected to continue affecting revenue in the short term. Hims & Hers Health Inc (NYSE:HIMS) reported a negative free cash flow of $69 million in Q2 2025 due to significant investments in inventory and working capital. The transition towards more premium daily offerings in the sexual health segment is causing temporary revenue declines. The company anticipates increased marketing and technology investments, which may pressure margins in the near term. Q & A Highlights Q: Why was now the right time to expand internationally, and what made ZAVA the right company to acquire? A: Andrew Dudum, CEO, explained that the acquisition of ZAVA is a strategic move to replicate Hims & Hers' personalized, high-touch, affordable precision medicine model in key international markets. ZAVA's ability to scale in unique regulatory environments was a key factor in the acquisition. The international market is seen as a focused effort, with a multibillion-dollar revenue opportunity in a few key markets. Q: How does the launch of at-home lab testing improve the business and support the broader mission of Hims & Hers? A: Andrew Dudum, CEO, emphasized that at-home lab testing is foundational for transitioning healthcare from treatment to prevention. It simplifies necessary tests, makes them affordable, and educates patients on optimal health metrics. This initiative is expected to open membership opportunities similar to Amazon or Costco, focusing on preventative health. Q: Can you provide insights into the core business dynamics and expectations for Q3, especially regarding the personalized GLP-1 offering? A: Oluyemi Okupe, CFO, noted material headwinds in the GLP-1 segment due to off-boarding commercially available dosages. The core business is experiencing a drag from the sexual health on-demand segment, but specialties like dermatology and weight loss are growing robustly. The transition to daily offerings in sexual health is expected to improve retention and customer lifetime value. Q: What are the expectations for the Canadian expansion and the impact of generic semaglutide pricing? A: Andrew Dudum, CEO, stated that the Canadian expansion will leverage ZAVA's expertise, with offerings under the Hims & Hers brand. The generic semaglutide is expected to be priced significantly lower than branded options, unlocking substantial market access in Canada, where a large portion of the population is affected by weight issues. Q: How is the Hers business performing, and what are the key growth drivers? A: Oluyemi Okupe, CFO, reported robust growth in the Hers business, driven by dermatology, weight loss, and mental health offerings. The upcoming launch of hormonal support for menopause is expected to further catalyze growth. Q: What is the approach to AI investments, and what impact is expected on the business? A: Andrew Dudum, CEO, highlighted a strategy focused on immediate, tactical improvements through AI. The platform's extensive patient interactions allow for rapid deployment of AI use cases, aiming to enhance efficiency and engagement across the provider, patient, and pharmacist interfaces within 3 to 6 months. Q: Can you discuss the marketing strategy and patient acquisition costs for the second half of the year? A: Oluyemi Okupe, CFO, stated that marketing investments will be robust but adhere to a capital allocation framework with a payback period of less than a year. The focus will be on specialty-specific investments and talent acquisition to support new specialties and international expansion. Q: What are the expectations for inventory levels and supply chain management? A: Oluyemi Okupe, CFO, explained that inventory levels increased to ensure a durable supply for new specialties and to leverage the strong balance sheet amid global uncertainties. This is seen as an anomaly, with future inventory adjustments expected to stabilize. For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript. This article first appeared on GuruFocus. Sign in to access your portfolio

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store