Merck teams with NVIDIA, Microsoft, Dawn Health on AI support for rare tumors

The collaboration brings together Merck's pharmaceutical expertise with NVIDIA's AI models and tools, Microsoft's cloud and AI services, and Dawn Health's digital health development platform. The aim is to address gaps in existing Patient Support Programs by offering an AI-facilitated digital companion that provides clinically reviewed information and individualized guidance around the clock. The system is designed to include defined escalation pathways, traceability and audit capabilities, while maintaining access to nurses and healthcare professionals when additional support is required.

Merck's Head of Global Commercial Strategy for its Healthcare business, Miguel Fernández Alcalde, noted that patients with rare tumors often face challenges beyond clinical care, such as navigating multiple specialists and complex regimens. He said the goal is to transform how healthcare is experienced rather than add another tool. The collaboration expands Merck's existing partnership with Dawn Health and aligns with its Integrated Health and Medicines strategy, which combines medicines, digital technologies and healthcare professional support. The companies aim to improve continuity of care for geographically dispersed patient populations while preserving clinical oversight and human interaction.