The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act, focusing on improving services for veterans with bipartisan support. Key provisions include expanding job opportunities, enhancing the Veterans Affairs community care program, and streamlining the disability benefits process. However, significant elements related to the VA’s electronic health record modernization, outlined in the EHR Program RESET Act, were excluded from the final legislation, prompting concerns among lawmakers about data protection and EHR performance oversight. House VA Committee Chairman Rep. Mike Bost has expressed the need for a reassessment of the VA's modernization efforts due to adverse effects on employees and veterans stemming from the current EHR system.

House Passes Veterans Healthcare Bill, Omits Key EHR Modernization Provisions Healthcare IT News

Microsoft has announced the Zero Day Quest, an in-person hacking event aimed at addressing high-impact security vulnerabilities in cloud and AI technologies. This event will supplement Microsoft's bug bounty program by offering an additional $4 million in rewards for researchers who identify significant flaws. The initiative, beginning now with submission acceptance, culminates in a gathering at Microsoft's headquarters in 2025, where participants can engage directly with AI engineers and the specialized AI Red Team. Microsoft also intends to enhance transparency by sharing information about fixed vulnerabilities to promote industry learning.

Microsoft Launches Zero Day Quest: $4 Million for Cloud and AI Security Researchers The Verge

TailorMed has secured $40 million in equity and debt financing to enhance its healthcare technology platform that facilitates medication access and affordability across the U.S. The investment, led by Windham Capital Partners, targets the critical issue that only 55% of U.S. adults can afford necessary healthcare, contributing to medical debt. With the nation's largest affordability network, TailorMed connects patients, providers, and pharmacies to streamline care and reduce costs, aiming to create a more efficient healthcare ecosystem while improving patient experiences and outcomes.

TailorMed Secures $40 Million to Revolutionize Medication Access and Affordability Business Wire

The rise in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) post-COVID-19 has underscored the vital role of cybersecurity in these transactions, as companies seek to strengthen their market positions while facing integration challenges. A key risk involves inheriting cybersecurity vulnerabilities from acquired entities, which can lead to significant financial and reputational damage, as exemplified by Verizon's acquisition of Yahoo. Challenges include merging disparate IT systems and security protocols, which can expose organizations to increased cyber threats. Reports of a rise in phishing attempts directed at acquired companies further highlight the importance of prioritizing cybersecurity during M&A. Companies are advised to conduct thorough cybersecurity assessments pre-acquisition and implement strong integration strategies post-acquisition to mitigate potential risks.

M&A Surge Post-Pandemic: Cybersecurity Risks Demand Urgent Attention Forbes