DOJ forces major divestitures in UnitedHealth-Amedisys deal; L.A. wildfires linked to hundreds of hidden deaths; VR therapy helps calm the heart – Morning Medical Update

DOJ forces major divestitures in UnitedHealth-Amedisys deal

The Justice Department will require UnitedHealth to divest at least 164 home health and hospice facilities to resolve antitrust concerns over its $3.3 billion acquisition of Amedisys. The settlement, announced Thursday, includes a $1.1 million civil penalty for Amedisys' false HSR certification and marks the largest outpatient healthcare divestiture in a merger challenge to date. The DOJ says the move protects patients, nurses, and healthcare competition across 19 states.

L.A. wildfires linked to hundreds of hidden deaths

While officials reported 30 direct deaths from Los Angeles’ January 2025 wildfires, a new JAMA study estimates the true toll at 440 excess deaths — nearly 7% more than expected — likely driven by smoke exposure, delayed care and stress. The analysis underscores the broader health risks of climate disasters and calls for improved mortality surveillance during wildfire events.

Virtual reality therapy helps calm the heart

A UCLA Health pilot study finds that virtual reality may ease stress in cardiac patients, showing measurable reductions in anxiety and heart rate after a 30-minute immersive session. Participants with depression or anxiety reported a calming “escape” from stress, and physiological data supported the psychological benefits. Researchers say VR could become a low-risk, accessible tool to support heart health alongside conventional care.