STAT+: Oura’s acquisition of health tech startup raises conflict-of-interest questions for Eli Lilly, experts say

Intertwined relationships between drugmakers, telemedicine companies draw scrutiny Emilie Megnien/AP Nov. 13, 2026 Chen, a national biotech reporter, is the co-author of The Readout, a newsletter about the business, science, and politics of biotech. Elaine’s stories explore the boom in new obesity treatments, new drug payment models, the ways companies are affected by FDA changes, and the emerging psychedelics drug sector. She co-writes The Readout newsletter, and co-hosts STAT’s weekly biotech podcast, The Readout Loud. You can reach Elaine on Signal at elaineywchen.70. Pharma companies that make GLP-1 drugs have increasingly promoted telehealth companies that prescribe the popular treatments. With a new deal announced this week, one of those relationships is expected to grow more complicated. Eli Lilly has been featuring a telehealth company called Counsel Health on a list of providers for patients seeking a GLP-1 prescription. On Tuesday, Counsel said it would be acquired by the smart ring maker Oura, allowing Counsel clinicians access to the data gathered through the ring so they can help customers understand the data and then diagnose or treat any conditions. STAT+ Exclusive Story Already have an account? Log in This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers Unlock this article — plus daily coverage and analysis of the pharma industry — by subscribing to STAT+. Already have an account? Log in View All Plans To read the rest of this story subscribe to STAT+. Subscribe National Biotech Reporter Elaine’s stories explore the boom in new obesity treatments, new drug payment models, the ways companies are affected by FDA changes, and the emerging psychedelics drug sector. She co-writes The Readout newsletter, and co-hosts STAT’s weekly biotech podcast, The Readout Loud. You can reach Elaine on Signal at elaineywchen.70.