The Siberian unicorn once roamed among humans and survived in Eastern Europe and Western Asia until at least 39,000 years ago, around the same time as Neanderthals and early modern humans.

| Archeaology
October 24, 2024

The Sierian unicorn once roamed among humans, emerging in eastern Europe and western Asia until at least 39,000 years ago, around the same time as Neanderthals and early modern humans.

An extinct giant rhinoceros, sometimes described as a “Sierian unicorn,” lingered on the planet far longer than scientists previously thought, new research shows.

A study published Monday in the journal Nature Ecology & Evolution says the furry creature once roamed among humans, emerging in eastern Europe and western Asia until at least 39,000 years ago — around the same time as Neanderthals and early modern humans.

The report’s authors have not responded to a request for comment.

The latest findings used radiotracer dating and genetic analysis of 23 rhino specimens to reveal the life of the mysterious 3.8-tonne Elasmotherium siƄiricum, previously thought to have gone extinct around 200,000 years ago.

They suggest that the “Sierian unicorn,” which is believed to have existed in present-day Russia and had a range that extended into areas of Mongolia, northern China and Kazakhstan, became extinct because of environmental changes that affected the types of grasses and pastures it used to eat, the study authors wrote in Conʋersation.

The animal, whose horn could measure up to a meter in length, found it difficult to give up its grass-based diet, the authors wrote.

“Relatives like the woolly rhino had always eaten a more balanced variety of plants and were much less affected by a change in habitat,” they wrote.

They added that humans were not the cause of their extinction.

“In addition to this, Elasmotherium’s persistently restricted geographic range (also proƄnally linked to its specialized habitat), as well as its low population size and slow reproductive rate associated with its large body size, would have predisposed it to extinction in the face of the threat of environmental change,” the authors wrote in the study.

Scientists say the loss of SiƄer’s unicorn offers a useful case study that “shows the poor resilience of rhinos to environmental change.”

Review: Top 10 Healthcare Services in the USA

The U.S. healthcare industry is a complex ecosystem of providers, insurers, and technology-driven services, delivering critical care to millions. In 2025, the sector is shaped by rising costs (projected at $4.9 trillion in 2023), technological innovation, and a focus on patient-centric care. Below is a detailed review of the top 10 healthcare services in the USA, based on market presence, patient outcomes, and industry impact.

1. HCA Healthcare

HCA Healthcare, based in Nashville, Tennessee, is the largest health system, operating 220 hospitals and over 40,000 staffed beds across 20 states. Known for comprehensive services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialty treatments, it generates significant net patient revenue. Its scale and advanced technology adoption ensure high-quality care, though accessibility varies by region.

2. Universal Health Services (UHS)

UHS manages 183 hospitals across 40 states, with over 21,000 beds, focusing on acute care and behavioral health. Its facilities in Texas, Florida, and California provide diverse services, from trauma care to psychiatric treatment. UHS’s emphasis on mental health integration aligns with 2025 trends, though high costs can be a barrier.

3. Encompass Health Corporation

With 164 hospitals, Encompass is the largest operator of rehabilitation hospitals, offering specialized post-acute care for stroke, brain injury, and spinal cord injury patients. Based in Birmingham, Alabama, it operates in 37 states, delivering measurable outcomes through therapy-focused programs. Its niche focus limits broader service scope.

4. CommonSpirit Health

A Catholic-affiliated system with 142 hospitals, CommonSpirit provides acute care, outpatient services, and telehealth across 21 states. It excels in community health programs and equitable access, serving underserved populations. Its integration of AI for diagnostics enhances efficiency, but merger-related challenges can affect consistency.

5. Ascension Health

Ascension operates 139 hospitals, focusing on primary care, oncology, and cardiology. With a mission-driven approach, it serves low-income communities through charity care programs. Its adoption of value-based care (VBC) models, projected to cover 90 million lives by 2027, improves outcomes but faces staffing shortages.

6. Kaiser Permanente

Kaiser Permanente is a leading integrated healthcare provider, combining insurance and care delivery for 12.5 million members. Its ACA marketplace plans are top-rated for affordability and quality, with low deductibles and strong preventive care. Operating in eight states, its HMO model ensures coordinated care but limits patient choice.

7. Aetna (CVS Health)

Aetna, under CVS Health, provides health insurance and healthcare services, covering 39 million lives. Its ACA plans offer competitive premiums and broad networks, with telehealth and pharmacy integration via CVS. Aetna’s focus on chronic disease management and AI-driven care navigation boosts outcomes, though rural access is limited.

8. Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic, based in Rochester, Minnesota, is renowned for specialized care in oncology, cardiology, and neurology. With 70,000 staff and three major campuses, it serves 1.3 million patients annually. Its research-driven approach and high patient satisfaction earn it top rankings, but costs and geographic reach are drawbacks.

9. Cleveland Clinic

Cleveland Clinic, with 23 hospitals, is a leader in cardiac care and medical innovation, serving patients across Ohio, Florida, and Nevada. Its adoption of cloud computing and AI for diagnostics enhances precision medicine. High costs and limited national presence restrict accessibility for some.

10. Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)

BCBS, a federation of 34 independent companies, insures 115 million Americans, offering PPO, HMO, and EPO plans. Its ACA marketplace plans are widely available, with strong provider networks and wellness programs. BCBS’s focus on digital health tools and equitable access is notable, though premiums vary by state.

Choosing the Right Service

Selecting a healthcare service depends on location, medical needs, and budget. HCA and UHS offer broad hospital-based care, while Kaiser and Aetna excel in integrated insurance and delivery. Mayo and Cleveland Clinic are ideal for specialized treatments, and BCBS provides flexible insurance options. Compare costs (e.g., average ACA premium: $635/month), provider networks, and patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades or U.S. News. With 26 million uninsured Americans and rising costs, prioritize services with telehealth, preventive care, and VBC to maximize value.

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