Ryan James, CEO of Doppel Technologies, discusses revolutionary telerobotic ultrasound systems designed to enhance healthcare access for rural America. He outlines the need for investment to improve healthcare equity. Elizabeth Yin, an angel investor at Mercury, brings insights on how innovative banking solutions can support startups in this sector. Together, they explore the impact of 5G technology on remote medical procedures and the regulatory challenges foreign firms face in the U.S. healthcare market.
Doppel Technologies aims to democratize healthcare access in rural areas through its innovative telerobotic ultrasound system operated by remote specialists.
The company plans to strategically partner with critical access hospitals and leverage FDA clearance to establish a competitive advantage in the healthcare market.
Deep dives
Equal Access to Healthcare: The Mission of Doppel Technologies
Doppel Technologies aims to democratize healthcare access for individuals, particularly in rural areas where healthcare specialists are often lacking. CEO Ryan James highlights the alarming statistic that residents in these areas are at higher risk for mortality from common health issues due to limited access to specialists. By leveraging technology, Doppel is developing a telerobotic ultrasound system allowing remote specialists to conduct diagnostic exams over the internet, thereby extending healthcare reach. This innovative approach addresses the systemic barriers preventing equitable healthcare access, ensuring that no patient is overlooked based on geography or socioeconomic status.
Telerobotic Ultrasound System: A Game Changer for Rural Hospitals
Doppel’s telerobotic ultrasound system consists of a robotic probe operated by specialists from a remote location, thus simplifying complex diagnostic processes for underserved populations. This technology not only provides critical diagnostic capabilities but also allows specialists to work from home, relieving them from travel burdens associated with rural healthcare. The company aims to partner with critical access hospitals, where the majority of its initial customers are expected to be, and sell its systems at a competitive price with Medicare support for reimbursement. With an economic model designed around increased procedural volume, Ryan James anticipates significant opportunities in this market segment.
Building a Competitive Edge Through FDA Clearance
Doppel Technologies is strategically positioning itself to become the first to market with its telerobotic ultrasound system in the U.S., capitalizing on FDA clearance advantages from existing technologies. The company aims to replicate proven systems and demonstrate their equivalence to successfully navigate the regulatory landscape, significantly reducing barriers to entry. By securing early contracts and a foothold in rural hospitals, Doppel plans to create a sustainable competitive advantage and gather valuable data to enhance its offerings. As they prepare for expansion, their vision extends beyond ultrasound technology to other minimally invasive medical procedures, indicating a broader impact on healthcare accessibility.
*Disclaimer: No offer to invest in Dopl is being made to or solicited from the listening audience on today’s show. The information provided on this show is not intended to be investment advice and should not be relied upon as such. The investors on today’s episode are providing their opinions based on their own assessment of the business presented. Those opinions should not be considered professional investment advice.