Synthetic Food Safety: A peer-reviewed study warns synbio “animal-free milk” may contain 93 uncharacterized compounds and 236 fungal proteins never tested for human consumption, raising questions about FDA safety testing and prompting calls for mandatory testing. Medicare Advantage Scrutiny: HHS OIG reports show high denial rates for MA prior authorization in long-term care, rehab and SNF admissions—though many denials are overturned on appeal—spotlighting how access can hinge on paperwork. CMS Tech Push: CMS announced a new Office of Health Technology and Products to modernize Medicare/Medicaid digital platforms, claims systems and interoperability policy. AI in Healthcare: UK Health Secretary James Murray urged the NHS to take “right risks” on AI and digital tools while limiting resident doctor pay changes. Pharma R&D Shift: Eli Lilly’s $2.75B AI deal for anti-aging drug discovery signals longevity as a core pipeline priority. Clinical Trial Setback: Bial discontinued pariceract for GBA1 Parkinson’s after Phase 2b ACTIVATE missed efficacy endpoints. Device Update: Penumbra’s Thunderbolt clot-removal tech received FDA clearance, a boost for Boston Scientific ahead of its acquisition close. Workforce & Cost Politics: California’s health worker union and hospital association are backing competing ballot initiatives tied to affordability and executive pay. Public Health Emergency: A major fire destroyed a large medical supply warehouse in Tracy, California, with reported sprinkler and hydrant failures complicating response.