Some of May's most popular stories examined long-term trends in the world of cardiovascular care—declining reimbursement rates and changing employment models, for example. Other top stories were more focused on the present, including a direct warning from the FDA to transition away from certain devices. That makes this list feel like an accurate representation of our goal here at Cardiovascular Business. We aim to write about what cardiologists and other cardiology professionals see on a daily basis while also looking ahead to the future.

Are we covering the right things? Please let us know. As always, thank you for reading. | Michael Walter - Editor

Physician payments are down slightly across the board, but they've fallen significantly for a handful of specialties. Researchers examined the long-term impact this trend could have on patient care.

The agency is urging healthcare providers to transition away from these devices and seek out alternatives. It is even working with other manufacturers to try and get similar products on the market as quickly as possible. 

Hospital employment models, reimbursement policies and private equity have all led to a massive reduction in the number of cardiologists working for a private practice, ACC President Cathie Biga, MSN, told Cardiovascular Business.

According to a whistleblower, Cape Cod Hospital performed hundreds of TAVR procedures without following specific government requirements.

The recall includes specific lots of five different medical devices used to treat stroke and other neurovascular diseases.

The alleged sex crimes involve a young child. According to a judge, the 61-year-old cardiologist could face life in prison if convicted.

The use of radial access during PCI procedures is increasing throughout the United States, and new data presented at the SCAI's annual meeting suggest that could be beneficial for patients. 

The popular AI chatbot's performance highlighted both its strengths and its weaknesses. It can answer multiple-choice questions, for example, but it struggles with consistency. 

The new device is believed to be the first of its kind, using both aspiration and mechanical clot disruption to remove blood clots.

The recall was put in place due to a leak risk that could make the therapies less effective and potentially lead to an infection.