Are you wondering how health startups are revolutionizing the way we approach wellness and healthcare? You’re in the right place. I’ve immersed myself in the world of health startups, exploring their innovative approaches and transformative technologies. This article is your one-stop resource for understanding the impact of these startups on the health industry.
23 Best Health Startups
1. connectRN
connectRN is revolutionizing the way nurses find work by offering them the flexibility to set their own schedules. Initially focusing on staffing for skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), the company has since expanded into home health.
With over $95 million in funding, connectRN aims to improve the lives of clinicians through better access, opportunities, and support. Despite experiencing company-wide layoffs, a common adjustment within the tech industry, connectRN is ambitiously aiming to have 2,000 home health clinicians on its platform by the end of the year reported.
2. Included Health
Included Health, founded by Owen Tripp, who also co-founded Reputation.com, is a healthcare solution provider for employers and health plans, focusing on virtual care and navigation. The company was formed through the merger of Grand Rounds Health and Doctor on Demand and later expanded by acquiring a care concierge platform for LGBTQ+.
Known for its integrated navigation and virtual care, Included Health aims to improve clinical and financial outcomes. The company offers access to board-certified doctors, specialists, and mental health care.
Despite experiencing a workforce reduction as part of a restructuring move, Included Health remains a key player in the healthcare industry, especially in providing comprehensive virtual healthcare solutions.
3. DispatchHealth
DispatchHealth, founded in 2013 by Dr. Mark Prather and Kevin Riddleberger, is transforming healthcare delivery, particularly for underserved populations, by providing in-home medical care. With a $3.6 million investment for expansion, DispatchHealth offers a mobile healthcare delivery model with equipped vehicles and acute care clinicians.
The company has successfully treated a significant number of patients in their homes, achieving high customer satisfaction rates. DispatchHealth predicts a 25% increase in home care over the next decade and aims to be at the forefront of this revolution in healthcare delivery.
4. Maven Clinic
Maven Clinic, a virtual clinic focusing on women’s and family health, was founded in 2014. The clinic offers continuous, holistic care for fertility and family building, providing an extensive online network of services covering fertility, pregnancy, adoption, parenting, and pediatrics.
With over $200 million raised in funding and a valuation of $1 billion after its most recent funding round, Maven Clinic supports over 30 provider specialties in 30 languages.
The clinic has been instrumental in supporting more than 15 million members in over 175 countries. The increased demand for its services post-Roe v. Wade and during the Covid-19 pandemic underscores its vital role in women’s and family health care.
5. Tempus
Tempus is a leading AI-enabled precision medicine company that is reshaping personalized treatment options in various medical fields, notably oncology, neurology, psychiatry, cardiology, and radiology.
Through its extensive library of clinical and molecular data, Tempus derives critical insights that are pivotal in personalizing patient care.
The company offers innovative solutions like a care pathway solution and EHR integration for healthcare providers, enhancing the efficiency and efficacy of treatments.
A notable product from Tempus is xM, a tumor uninformed MRD assay for ctDNA detection in colorectal cancer, demonstrating their cutting-edge approach in cancer treatment.
Separate from its primary focus, Tempus Unlimited operates as an entity dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities.
This branch of Tempus offers programs and internships, showcasing their commitment to inclusivity and support for diverse needs in the community.
6. Komodo Health
Komodo Health stands out in the healthcare industry with its software applications that utilize extensive healthcare data to tackle various challenges. The company skillfully combines patient-encounter data with a detailed view of the U.S. healthcare system, providing valuable insights for healthcare delivery.
Komodo Health offers a suite of software applications built on the Healthcare Map, aiming to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare services.
Their partnerships with various healthcare organizations are integral in bolstering support for community-based healthcare providers, underlining their commitment to improving healthcare access and quality.
7. Calm
Calm, a leading app and online platform, promotes mental wellness through an array of services including meditation, sleep, and relaxation. As the #1 app in its category, Calm has garnered over 100 million users worldwide, a testament to its effectiveness and popularity.
The platform offers guided meditations, Sleep Stories, music, movement exercises, and more. It comes highly recommended by mental health professionals and is known for its content designed to manage stress, balance moods, and enhance focus and sleep quality.
Calm’s widespread adoption and endorsement by experts highlight its significant role in the growing field of digital mental wellness.
8. Circulo Health
Circulo Health, a provider for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), has undergone significant transformations in its operational focus.
Initially starting as a technology insurance line and primary care provider, the company faced business challenges that led to the shutdown of these lines.
Now, Circulo Health concentrates solely on home- and community-based programs for individuals with IDD. Despite experiencing difficulties, including layoffs and restructuring, the company continues its operations in New York state, having legally and financially separated from Huddle Health.
Circulo Health’s commitment to providing care for individuals with IDD remains evident in its continued efforts to adapt and serve this community.
9. Trusted Health
Founded in 2002, Trusted Health, based in San Francisco, has made significant strides in the nursing sector with its innovative staffing platform, Works.
This platform is ingeniously designed to assist employers in creating an on-demand workforce sourced from both internal and external channels. It plays a critical role in predicting staffing needs and streamlining the onboarding process for staff.
Trusted Health’s financial journey is noteworthy, having raised a total of $175 million in funding. The latest funding round, a Series C, brought in $94 million, highlighting the strong market confidence in the company’s approach and potential.
As of December 2022, Trusted Health had over 236 employees, indicating its growth and the expanding impact of its staffing solutions in the healthcare industry.
10. HealthSherpa
HealthSherpa, co-founded in 2013 by George Kalogeropoulos, Ning Liang, and Cat Perez, operates out of Sacramento, California, with a team of 220 employees. The company’s focus is on simplifying the process of connecting individuals with health insurance.
Initially developed as an alternative for researching plans on Healthcare.gov, HealthSherpa has successfully enrolled over 6 million people in individual health coverage as of October 2021. This achievement demonstrates the platform’s effectiveness and user-friendly design in navigating the often complex health insurance landscape.
Furthermore, HealthSherpa’s partnerships with employers to assist their non-benefits eligible employees in finding health insurance is a crucial service, expanding access to healthcare coverage and supporting workforce health and wellbeing.
11. Akasa
Akasa, also known as Alpha Health and founded in 2018, operates from South San Francisco, California, as an AI-powered automation company. The company specializes in using machine learning to help health systems automate their revenue cycle operations, showcasing a significant technological advancement in healthcare administration.
Akasa’s technology, built specifically for healthcare, incorporates computer vision-based Robotic Process Automation (RPA) enhanced with machine learning.
This approach enables healthcare organizations to improve various operations, including the revenue cycle, thereby driving revenue, creating efficiencies, and enhancing the patient experience.
The focus of Akasa on healthcare-specific solutions underlines the importance of specialized technology in addressing the unique challenges of the healthcare industry.
12. Neurogene
Neurogene is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing genetic medicines for patients and families affected by rare, devastating neurological diseases. Their commitment to building a gene therapy pipeline addresses the high unmet need in the realm of rare neurological conditions.
Neurogene’s belief in the power of innovation, robust scientific execution, and a strong sense of purpose to turn the promise of gene therapy into reality is a reflection of their dedication and forward-thinking approach.
This focus is crucial in the biopharmaceutical field, especially for addressing complex and rare neurological diseases where traditional treatments might be limited or non-existent.
13. Fastic
Fastic is an innovative intermittent fasting app that was launched by Fastic GmbH in 2019, with the goal of helping users adopt and maintain a healthy fasting routine.
Available on both iOS and Android platforms, Fastic operates on a freemium model, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
The app offers an array of features, including fasting and meal plans, a nutrition tracker, and valuable advice on fasting and nutrition. Additionally, it provides support from coaches, catering to users in six different languages, which enhances its global appeal.
With over 30 million downloads, Fastic has gained considerable popularity worldwide. The app experienced a significant surge in downloads during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown in April 2020, highlighting its relevance in times when health and wellness became a primary concern for many.
The founders, Sebastian Wettcke and Phillipp Wayman, bring a wealth of experience in fasting advice and products, adding credibility and expertise to the app.
The decision to move Fastic GmbH’s headquarters to Berlin in late December 2019 reflects the company’s growth and evolving strategy in the health and wellness sector.
14. Cityblock Health
Cityblock Health, founded in 2017, is a healthcare technology company that is making a significant impact in underserved communities by providing a comprehensive range of services including medical, mental health, and social services.
Valued at $6 billion, Cityblock Health has raised $600 million, underscoring the importance of its mission to improve health outcomes for marginalized communities.
The services offered by Cityblock Health are typically included in a member’s health plan, with financial assistance programs available to help cover copays. This inclusive approach ensures that essential health services are accessible to those who need them most.
Beyond medical care, Cityblock Health offers support in various aspects of daily life, such as childcare support, setting up appointments, and assistance with groceries and housing.
This holistic approach to healthcare is a key differentiator for Cityblock Health, addressing the broader needs of individuals in these communities.
Operating Neighborhood Health Hubs in various cities, Cityblock Health provides a range of services under one roof, making it easier for members to access the care and support they need. This model reflects the company’s commitment to creating accessible, comprehensive healthcare solutions for underserved communities.
15. HiberCell
HiberCell, a biopharmaceutical company launched in 2019, has made significant strides in developing therapeutics for cancer patients. The company commenced with a robust start, securing a $60.75 million Series A funding round.
Its research, based at Mount Sinai’s Tisch Cancer Institute, focuses on innovative approaches to tackling cancer metastasis and recurrence.
HiberCell’s strategy involves targeting the vulnerabilities in cancer cells through therapeutic candidates like Odetiglucan and HC-7366. This approach represents a significant advancement in cancer treatment, focusing on areas like metastasis and recurrence that are crucial in improving patient outcomes.
The initiation of clinical trials for some of its therapeutic candidates demonstrates HiberCell’s progress in bringing these potentially life-saving treatments closer to realization. The company’s efforts in the field of cancer research are a beacon of hope for patients seeking more effective treatment options.
16. One Step Software
One Step Software, founded in 2017, provides outcome tracking software to addiction facilities. This software is designed to enhance client engagement, referrals, Net Promoter Score (NPS), and staff productivity, addressing key operational areas in addiction treatment facilities.
Receiving investment from sources like Palm Drive VC, One Step Software has garnered support and confidence from the investment community. The software’s impact spans various industries, with positive testimonials from clients affirming its effectiveness and utility.
17. Bicycle Health
Bicycle Health, a telemedicine company specializing in Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD), has established itself as the largest U.S. medical group providing MOUD treatment via telemedicine. Founded in 2017 by Ankit Gupta and launching its virtual care platform in 2020, the company has served over 32,000 patients.
Bicycle Health’s comprehensive care model includes medication management, behavioral health treatment, support groups, and care coordination. Operating across 32 states with a full-time medical team, the company’s reach and impact are substantial.
Notably, the care model has demonstrated an 80% patient retention rate at 90 days for insured patients, highlighting its effectiveness in retaining and supporting patients in their treatment journey.
18. Lark
Lark is a healthcare software solutions company founded in 2016, providing a chronic disease prevention and management platform. In addition to its healthcare offerings, Lark offers a suite of office collaboration tools, including messaging, schedule management, and online collaborative documents.
Lark Suite, launched by ByteDance in April 2019, is available on multiple platforms, including macOS, Windows, iOS, and Android. This multifaceted platform caters to the growing need for integrated healthcare and collaboration tools in the digital age.
19. Capsule
Capsule is a revolutionary pharmacy that offers direct-to-door prescription delivery. Operating a chain of pharmacy stores, Capsule is known for its same-day delivery service, managed via a mobile application.
The company’s approach to pharmacy services focuses on providing a friendly and caring experience, distinguishing it as a convenient and customer-centric option in the pharmaceutical industry. Capsule Corp, as it is also known, represents a significant shift towards more accessible and user-friendly pharmacy services.
20. Alto Pharmacy
Alto Pharmacy, a digital pharmacy launched in 2015 (originally known as ScriptDash), is revolutionizing the pharmacy experience from its base in San Francisco, California. The company aims to be the most patient-centric pharmacy, a goal that resonates in its approach to healthcare.
One of Alto Pharmacy’s significant achievements is the development of technology that streamlines the medication delivery process. This includes a user-friendly mobile application for efficient prescription management. Through this technology, Alto Pharmacy enhances the accessibility and convenience of pharmaceutical services for patients.
With a total funding of $708.61M over several rounds, Alto Pharmacy demonstrates strong financial backing and market confidence. This funding supports the company’s commitment to transforming the pharmacy sector with innovative and patient-focused solutions.
21. NexHealth
NexHealth, founded in 2017 by Alamin Uddin, is a patient experience management platform that has quickly grown to serve over 4,000 practices across the United States. The platform is utilized by dental and medical professionals to enhance their practice growth.
The system’s ability to segment marketing campaigns based on various dimensions, such as appointment count, no-shows, cancellations, patient satisfaction, and NPS score, is particularly noteworthy. This feature allows for tailored and efficient marketing strategies.
NexHealth’s analytics dashboard provides valuable data about practice and patient engagement, a key factor in practice management and growth. Despite being more expensive than other patient communication systems, NexHealth’s comprehensive solution justifies its cost for many practices. The platform has successfully raised over $7 million from investors, reflecting its potential and effectiveness in the healthcare sector.
22. Curology
Curology, an online skincare platform, offers personalized skincare treatments, making prescription skincare more affordable and accessible. Founded by Dr. David Lortscher, the service includes an online assessment, virtual consultation with a healthcare professional, and a personalized formula tailored to each individual’s skin needs.
The company’s core products, such as cleansers, serums, and moisturizers, are formulated to address various skin issues. Operating on a monthly subscription model, Curology has received a good customer rating on Trustpilot, indicating its effectiveness and customer satisfaction.
Curology’s approach to skincare reflects a growing trend in personalized and accessible health and beauty solutions, making professional skincare treatments more convenient and tailored to individual needs.
23. Devoted Health
Devoted Health offers Medicare Advantage plans with a focus on easier, more affordable, and caring healthcare. The company prioritizes quality healthcare and has established partnerships with trusted doctors, hospitals, pharmacies, and other providers.
Devoted Health’s aim to improve clinical outcomes and lower costs is achieved by providing a complete, coordinated, and customized healthcare experience. This approach is integral to their mission of transforming healthcare for their members.
Recognized as a great place to work, Devoted Health has received positive feedback from employees, highlighting its positive work environment and culture.
The company’s significant funding, including a $175 million Series E round, is dedicated to expanding its integrated healthcare solutions, demonstrating a commitment to improving healthcare delivery and accessibility.