Oura acquisition of startup raises conflict-of-interest questions for Eli Lilly

Elaine’s stories explore the boom in new obesity treatments, new drug payment models, the ways companies are affected by FDA changes, and the emerging psychedelics drug sector. She co-writes The Readout newsletter, and co-hosts STAT’s weekly biotech podcast, The Readout Loud. You can reach Elaine on Signal at elaineywchen.70.

Pharma companies that make GLP-1 drugs have increasingly promoted telehealth companies that prescribe the popular treatments. With a new deal announced this week, one of those relationships is expected to grow more complicated.

Eli Lilly has been featuring a telehealth company called Counsel Health on a list of providers for patients seeking a GLP-1 prescription.

On Tuesday, Counsel said it would be acquired by the smart ring maker Oura, allowing Counsel clinicians access to the data gathered through the ring so they can help customers understand the data and then diagnose or treat any conditions.

STAT+ Exclusive Story