Our most popular stories for the month of June highlight some of the biggest issues impacting today’s healthcare providers. Salaries continue to rise, for example, though they are climbing much more for some specialties than others. We also learned that surgeons are frustrated by the use of outdated technology in their operating rooms. If health systems don’t start investing in more new equipment, could an exodus of sorts be on the horizon? Another top story examined the rising influence of private equity in healthcare. The FTC asked stakeholders to share their opinions about this trend, and the public comments suggest many are not yet on board.

That’s just a small taste of what we explored last month. I’m excited to see what July will bring. As always, thank you for reading. | Michael Walter - Editor

Cardiology's gains are far less than some specialties—pay for dermatologists went up more than 10%, for instance—but still ahead of the consumer price index.

A majority of U.S. surgeons, including those who treat heart patients on a daily basis, say their operating rooms use outdated technology. It is having a negative impact on patient care. 

The FTC and other federal agencies launched a public inquiry to see how physicians, patients and other stakeholders felt about the rising influence of private equity in healthcare. Based on the public comments available online, many in the industry are concerned about the trend's long-term impact on patient care. 

Matthew Reynolds, MD, Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, explains data from the EXCALIBER and CAMELOT studies that show ambulatory cardiac monitoring usage among more than 300,000 patients.

The new-look diet was linked to significant weight loss and reductions in HbA1C levels. Researchers see it as a potential alternative to immediately putting patients on new medications. 

This move represents a pivot of sorts for Edwards; instead of pursuing a spin-off of its critical care business, the company is now doubling down on its commitment to develop new structural heart technologies. BD, meanwhile, says the transaction will deliver significant value. 

Individuals with underlying heart disease may want to avoid energy drinks going forward, according to a new Mayo Clinic analysis.

The new surgical valve from Foldax was designed to limit calcification and make it so patients do not require long-term anticoagulant therapy following treatment. 

Medtronic’s TAVR technology received a significant amount of attention during the very first New York Valves conference in New York City. Research focused on patients with small annuli as well as how five-year outcomes compare to surgery. 

Based on positive results from two different trials, Eli Lilly and Company hopes to secure a new FDA approval for tirzepatide in the months ahead.