Highlights & Happenings

Cornell Tech’s 2025 HealthNext Summit set the stage for an inspiring exploration into how AI is shaping the future of healthcare. From “AI’s Breakthrough Potential in Human Biology” to “How AI Will Shape Mental Health Around the World,” the sessions highlighted the profound impact AI can have on both physicians and patients.

Panel discussions addressed the advancements and challenges of AI in healthcare, emphasizing the importance of data, collaboration, and humility in innovation. Speakers explored opportunities for AI to streamline drug development, enhance patient enrollment in clinical trials, and improve communication between patients, sponsors, regulators, and payers. Attendees dove deeper into the current state of healthcare and the innovations poised to shape its future. Collaboration, partnerships, and ecosystem-building were recurring themes throughout the day.

medara’s Founder and CEO, Dr. Kendra Batchelder, was honored to speak on the panel “Startup Spotlight: Perspectives on Early Stage Ecosystem Development.” The panel offered valuable perspectives for startups on cultivating supportive early-stage ecosystems for maximum impact.

“It was an honor to share the stage with such a diverse group of innovators and discuss how early-stage companies can build networks that drive meaningful change,” said Dr. Batchelder.

As the HealthNext Summit continues, we’re energized by the conversations happening around AI innovation, healthcare transformation, and the opportunities ahead for improving patient outcomes.