Regulatory and Washington

NEW YORK — New York City Economic Development Corporation and Health 2.0 last week announced the launch of the second annual Pilot Health Tech NYC, a program designed to dramatically increase innovation and collaboration within New York City’s health technology sector. Pilot Health Tech NYC helps pilot and advance new health technologies by partnering early-stage companies with key New York City healthcare service organizations and stakeholders - including hospitals, physician clinics, pharmaceutical companies, nursing associations, large employers and retailers.  

WASHINGTON — As many as 3 million people have enrolled in private health insurance as part of the Affordable Care Act. Enrollment has been up by more than one-third in recent weeks. 

SAN FRANCISCO  — McKesson late Thursday afternoon announced that it has reached an agreement with Franz Haniel & Cie. GmbH to acquire its entire holding of Celesio shares for 23.50 euros per share (US $32.24 per share). In a separate and subsequent agreement, McKesson also announced the acquisition of Celesio convertible bonds from Elliott. These agreements are not subject to any closing conditions and the transactions are expected to close within 10 business days. 

WASHINGTON — The United States Conference of Mayors announced winners of the 2014 Childhood Obesity Prevention Awards. The grant awards went to cities with outstanding programs that encouraged balanced diet choices and regular physical activity to maintain healthy weight.

The following cities were recognized:

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — Legislative relief that would result in a more balanced business relationship between Ohio community pharmacists and PBMs is critical, according to the National Community Pharmacists Association.

FORT WASHINGTON, Pa. — McNeil Consumer Healthcare on Thursday launched an enhanced consumer education website called GetReliefResponsibly.com to promote safety in using OTC medicines to help kick a cold. 

ARLINGTON, Va.  — The National Association of Chain Drug Stores Foundation announced on Friday the recipients of the Pharmacy Student Scholarship Awards.  

The NACDS Foundation awarded $5,000 each to four pharmacy students. The recipients were chosen for their work that shares the NACDS Foundation’s commitment to benefit patients, improve outcomes and advance public health.

LAVAL, Quebec — Valeant Pharmaceuticals International on Thursday announced the expiration of the tender offer by a subsidiary of Valeant Pharmaceuticals International to purchase all of the outstanding shares of Solta Medical for $2.92 per share in cash, without interest (less any applicable withholding taxes). 

The offer expired at midnight on Jan. 23, 2014.