The 10 Companies Booming in Healthcare Sector

2019 Vol.6/ Issue-2
www.insightscare.com
THE
10
COMPANIES
BOOMING
IN HEALTHCARE
SECTOR
Dr. John Moller
CEO
NOVOTECH
A Catalyst for Growth and a
Better Tomorrow

THE TOMORROW OF
HEALTHCARE
he landscape of healthcare has noticeably changed compared to what it was a few years ago.
TThe global expenditure of healthcare has been on a spree, rising at the rate of 5.7 percent
annually, between the years 2017 to 2022. This growth is driven by various factors including
the rise in the population of people in older age groups, increased chronic disease rates, new demands
of the care receivers and newer approach of care givers, and many more. Based on the scenario of the
global healthcare industry in 2019, we can predict a few possibilities that will drive the market in the
years to come.
The two big trends that have emerged in the past few years are the shifting of this industry towards
personalized, outcome-based care and the developments in diagnostic and preventive care. These
trends will continue to gain popularity and many new startups as well as well-settled business players
are seen to focus on them. The advancements in healthcare have come with huge investments and
there is a rising need to bring in better solutions at affordable prices. Many new researches and
funding for drug development and treatments, along with technological advancements, are seen and
are expected to increase further. The future holds a promise for various disruptive innovations to make
this a reality. We will also owe it to mergers and collaborations among various healthcare and nonhealthcare
organizations to attain financial sustainability.
Technological innovation is another key factor driving the steering of tomorrow for healthcare niche.
With emergence and wide-spread acceptance of developments in wearable devices, remote healthcare,
telemedicine, patient management apps, digital healthcare, and more, myriads of companies are seen
to invest in these areas. The consumer demands have changed with their increased role in the system
and therefore, the focus should be shifted to patient engagement and building of more personal
relationships. Additionally, technologies like AI, VR, 3D printing, medical imaging, etc. have entered
the healthcare sector and are assisting the providers in offering more accurate and enhanced care to the
patients.
With increase in the number of changes the industry is witnessing, there is increase in the need of
regulatory policies and compliances as well. Other than that, patient data has become the new
currency in healthcare. Along with this comes the need of cyber-security for protecting the highly
sensitive and critical healthcare data. Additionally, the trend of health food habits and self-care has
grown tremendously. The industry will be focusing on these aspects as well.
The stakeholders of healthcare, including providers, investors, and consumers, have newer demands
and the ecosystem is, therefore, shifting towards better and sustainable solutions. The industry is
expected to grow further, market as well as development wise. Preventive care, financial
sustainability, digitalization, and so many other popular factors may take us towards an enhanced,
affordable, and accessible tomorrow!
Aishwarya Nawandhar
Editor

Editor’s Column

Cover Story
10
NOVOTECH
A Catalyst for Growth and a Better Tomorrow
Interview with Insights Care
Sanomics
Improving Healthcare
with Innovation and
Compassion
16
22
Industry Insight
What Digital Startups
Need To Succeed In The
Healthcare Space
CXO

CONTENTS
24 32 34
David
Health Solutions
Movement as
Medicine
Accutest
Research Laboratories
The Preferred CRO
Partner for Healthcare
Companies
SpineMark
Corporation
Transforming Care
Delivery Through
Exceptional Care Services
28
In-house Opinion
Social Media Marketing
A Necessary Trend to
Pick for Healthcare
Professionals
Articles
36
Novel Discoveries
Top Health Tech
Innovations in 2019
that are Breaking
the Barriers

Market Leaders
Driving Development
in Care Industry
evelopment is a continuous process in any sector. It brings in more comfort, more precision, and more
Denhanced way of living. Almost all the industries have and will continue to witness extensive
developments in their respective niches and healthcare sector is not aloof of this process. The health
and medical industry has grown through the years with technological and device developments, pharmaceutical
advancements, process enhancement, and more. It owes this to various organizations and people that have
dedicated their resources and expertise to improve several areas of healthcare.
Acknowledging the remarkable contribution of the leading companies in the care sector, we bring to you the
special issue of “The 10 Companies Booming in Healthcare Sector”. This edition portrays the inspiring
stories of the listed pre-eminent organizations that are shaping the future of healthcare through innovation and
dedication.
Featured on the cover is the internationally recognized leading regional full-service contract research
organization (CRO), Novotech. The company has been delivering CRO services in the Asia-Pacific region for
more than 23 years.
Apart from the engaging cover story, the issue encompasses the prominent leaders of the industry including
David Health Solutions, a world leader in rehabilitation solutions for musculoskeletal problems; SpineMark
Corporation, a premier global spine service company for the development of Spine Destination Centers and
Spine Research Organizations (SRO); Accutest Research Laboratories, a top-notch independent and
internationally accredited India-based Contract Research Organization (CRO); an interview by Sanomics, a
fast-growing company contributing relentlessly to the future of healthcare with novel gene therapy solutions;
Youshow AI tech Development; Pacific Healthcare; Paradigm Pharma; Teleme Technology; and Meditech
Solution.
This edition also includes few interesting articles by our in-house editors and industry expert.
So, walk through the pages and enjoy a good read!

Editor-in-Chief Pooja M. Bansal
Senior Editor Anish Miller
Managing Editor Ashwini S. Deshpande
Executive Editor Aishwarya Nawandhar
Contributing Editor Shambhavi Mhetre
Visualiser David King
Art & Design Head Amol Kamble
Art & Design Assistant Poonam Mahajan
Co-designer Paul Belin
Art & Picture Editor Karan Gaikwad
Business Development Manager Peter Collins
Marketing Manager Marry D’Souza
Business Development Executive Mark Williams
Sales Executives Pooja, Amy, John
Technical Head Jacob Smile
Assistant Technical Head Pratiksha Patil
Technical Consultants David, Robert
Digital Marketing Manager Alina Sege
Assistant Digital Marketing Manager Prashant Chevale
SME-SMO Executives Manoj, Gemson
Research Analyst Eric Smith
Circulation Manager Tanaji
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June, 2019
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Dr. John Moller
CEO

Cover Story
NOVOTECH
A Catalyst for Growth
and a Better Tomorrow
”
A leading regional CRO in the Asia-Pacic region and the
Biotech sector, offering full service clinical trial services
”

The cost of research for new drugs has almost
tripled over the last 25 years and new models are
emerging to face these increasing expenses.
Multinational pharmaceutical companies are deriving an
even larger share of their revenues from biotech
acquisitions or external discovery, and an increasing
focus is put on clinical development operational
improvements and optimization.
Novotech is internationally recognized as the leading
regional full-service contract research organization
(CRO) in Asia-Pacific and is dedicated to supporting
biotech companies in their drug development by tapping
into the benefits of the region. With a focus on clinical
monitoring, it has been instrumental in the success of
hundreds of Phase I - IV clinical trials in the Asia Pacific
region.
Headquartered in Sydney, Novotech has been delivering
CRO services in the region for more than 23 years. It has
offices in twelve countries, including two customerfacing
offices in the US, and more than 550 staff to
accommodate increased demand from international
biotech companies for specialist clinical services.
Strong Focus on Asia-Pacific with a Global Reach
Novotech delivers clinical development services across
all clinical trial phases and therapeutic areas. These
include feasibility assessments, ethics committee and
regulatory submissions, data management, statistical
analysis, medical monitoring, safety services, central lab
services, report write-up to ICH requirements, and
project and vendor management. The company’s strong
Asia Pacific presence allows them to run clinical trials in
all key regional markets. It also has worldwide reach
through the company’s network of strategic partners.
Full Service for Biotechnology Companies
Novotech is known as the leading regional CRO in the
Asia-Pacific region and the biotech sector. The company
and its employees have won numerous awards and
recognitions in the CRO industry over the last several
years and has been dedicated to delivering consistently
high-quality service for its clients. In addition, the
company ensures that the customer satisfaction is closely
and objectively monitored across a range of KPIs
throughout the lifespan of each project.
Speaking of what sets them apart in today’s highly
competitive global world, Dr. John Moller, the CEO of
Novotech, said, “Novotech is focused on delivering
world-class clinical services in the Asia-Pacific region
for the biotech sector. We offer the very latest in Oracle
and Medidata technology, and all our projects are
measured on quality of service and customer satisfaction
throughout every stage of our engagement.”
The customers of the company value its leadership as a
regional CRO specialist, who can understand local
cultures, customs, regulations, and have developed deep
relationships with the key investigators in the region.
Novotech follows a unique strategy for all its clients’
projects. When discussing a new potential project with a
client, the company brings in its senior clinical staff,
country managers, and potentially investigators into the
discussions as early as possible. Through this, it ensures
that the sponsor can gain the confidence that their project
will receive the attention they may not otherwise have
with global CRO players.
In addition to this, Novotech has a significant focus on
appointing and retaining the best people and is strongly
passionate about developing its employees. In fact, in the
year of 2018, 30% of the company’s employees were
promoted.
Focused on Client Satisfaction
Novotech has implemented a systematic mechanism of
monitoring customer and investigator satisfaction across
a range of items. It has invested in new technology and
established clear processes to systematically reach out to
its customers after key milestones for each project. The
company finds this initiative very important as it nurtures
relationships with its clients to address potential issues
well in advance and ensures continuous improvement in
the services it provides. Validating the success of this
approach is Novotech’s excellent levels of client
satisfaction - mostly 8 and 9 out of 10 - and especially
project communications which consistently scores above
9 out of 10.
Following are some feedback comments from from
Novotech clients.
“We’re delighted with the way our project was managed.
The structure of having the study team together with the
governance team was effective. The team was very

”
We maintain and
monitor the quality
of service and client
satisfaction at every
step of our
engagement
”
responsive, and issues were resolved within expected
timeframes.” - Senior Clinical Project Manager of a
Swiss Biotech company
Key Highlights of 2018
Novotech’s acquisition of Australia specialist CNS last
year was one of the major milestones in its journey. This
acquisition has further strengthened Novotech’s presence
in the region and has allowed the company to offer all
clients a ‘BioDesk,’ capability that provides early stage
product development advice including toxicology, CMC
and FDA/EMA regulatory consulting.
Moreover, Asia-Pacific was the fastest growing region
for biotech-sponsored trials again last year, with an
increase of about 35% compared with 2017. In the year
2018, Novotech maintained its focus on bringing in and
retaining the best people, nurturing relationships with
clients, investigators and partners, and brand
development initiatives. The organization also made an
important investment in relation to technology
improvements with the next generation of Oracle’s Trial
Management system.
Novotech has further reinforced its position of leading
CRO for the biotech sector in the Asia-Pacific region in
2018 with a very strong performance in key markets
such as ANZ, Hong Kong, Thailand, Taiwan, and South
Korea where Novotech estimates its market share has
increased to over 30% in key territories.
Foundational Values
Values are the roots of any company. The core values lay
the foundation of an organization and helps define its
vision and shape its culture. Novotech abides by the
following values:

Ÿ
Ÿ
Ÿ
Ÿ
Performance Passion – According to Novotech, an
attitude of making it happen drives a dedicated focus
on engagement, quality, accountability, and
performance results
Open Engagement – Novotech’s style of working
recognizes the value of everyone involved
Uncompromised Integrity – It follows the belief that
one should never to hesitate to say or do the right
thing
Unlocking Talent - Novotech seeks and nurtures
people with exceptional talent
Novotech’s Take on Latest Developments
Novotech believes that clinical data quality is considered
the key priority for 2019. According to a recent survey
conducted by J.P. Morgan amongst life sciences’
investors this is especially true given the increasing
complexity of trials and trial designs.
Novotech has driven an increasing investment in upfront
clinical development strategy, including the use of
carefully designed protocols. These include multi-arm,
multi-stage designs with adaptive randomization.
According to Novotech, an efficient approach to clinical
trial design will have the greatest impact in containing
the escalating cost of drug development. It also believes
that the effectiveness of clinical trials also relies on the
selection of the right investigators and excellence in
CRO study management. The company, therefore,
invests heavily in building formal partnerships with
major hospitals and medical specialist sites through
formal site partnership agreements, as well as site
management services which facilitate rapid start-up
activities and patient recruitment to meet the sponsor’s
goals.
Bringing in More for a Better Tomorrow
With biotech companies investing in more complex and
global programs, Novotech sees that biotech sponsors
are increasingly considering locations outside of the US
for their trials, such as Eastern Europe and Asia-Pacific.
The company’s clinical staff numbers have grown by
more than 20% in Asia over the last quarter of 2018 and
50% over the last twelve months. This growth in the
number of staff members is fuelled by demand for a
regional CRO with international accreditation and
reputation, combined with local knowledge,
partnerships, and expertise in the region. Furthermore,
the company’s initiative of integration of capabilities,
such as BioDesk, will bring tremendous support to
biotech companies looking for global regulatory
services.

Interview with Insights Care
Mr. Sy Ming Yiu
CEO
SANOMICS
Improving Healthcare with Innovation and Compassion
The healthcare industry is looking for better answers to diagnose and treat various life-threatening diseases we hear of
today. One of these diseases that the industry is trying to combat since long is cancer. Although there have been
various advancements related to cancer treatment, no specific solution is reached yet. By far, the best possible
solution comes from gene therapy. Apart from cancer treatment, gene therapy has showed a lot of potential to improve the
treatment of number of deadly diseases.
Sanomics is a fast-growing company, which is contributing relentlessly to the future of healthcare with novel gene therapy
solutions. It is remarkably revolutionizing cancer treatments for the patients with safe and efficient liquid-based and tissuebased
genomic tests. To know more about the story of this ingenious company, we at Insightscare bring to you an exclusive
interview with its CEO, Mr. Sy Ming Yiu, Stanley.
1. Tell us in brief about Sanomics Limited.
Established in Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation in 2015, Sanomics Limited is a Hong Kong based
biotechnology start-up that specializes in liquid biopsy and tissue-based genomic diagnostics for cancer patients, so as to
help doctors decide personalized cancer solutions for patients. Since 2015, Sanomics’ service covers 20 countries and
regions and it has completed more than 7,000 patient cases over the world. Sanomics (Thailand) Limited was founded in
October 2018 in Bangkok, which is the first Hong Kong biotechnology start-up launched in Thailand.
Focusing on lung and women cancer, Sanomics’ comprehensive cancer genomic screening services covers both somatic
mutation and germline mutations, adopting Droplet Digital Polymerase Chain Reaction (ddPCR), Next Generation
Sequencing (NGS) technology to complete Comprehensive Genomic Profiling (CGP), and Real-time Polymerase Chain
Reaction (Real-time PCR).
16
| June 2019 |

2. What were the motivating factors that led towards the inception of the company?
“Patient first” is absolutely the most motivating factor. An accurate genomic test result is critical for helping doctors to
design a personalized treatment for cancer patients. We strive to provide the genomic tests which are of higher quality,
cheaper price, and quicker turnaround time to help cancer patients to save time and medical expenses.
3. Which is your flagship product? Also, tell us how Sanomics stands tall and differentiates itself from others in this
competitive world.
®
Requiring only 20ml of blood and 2 working days of turnaround time, p-EGFR liquid biopsy test detects the EGFR gene
mutation which causes lung cancer. Comparing with traditional tissue biopsy which is an invasive operation, costly, and
® ®
time consuming, p-EGFR is non-invasive, affordable, and quick. Since the launch of p-EGFR in August 2015 in Hong
Kong, it has become the market leader in Hong Kong within just 8 months.
What makes Sanomics stand out is our dedication to execution. We always emphasis the innovation of Sanomics is in
execution. Ranging from test request, specimen collection to release report, we try our best to keep the process as simple
as possible, so that physicians’ precious time can be spent on treating patients instead of dealing with clumsy procedures.
For example, we simplify the process of requesting Sanomics’ tests to 3 steps only and keep our form and test report in 1
page to save time of physicians. Also, we launched Sanomics Portal mobile app for doctors to keep posted.
4. What are all the products and services that Sanomics Limited provides?
®
The pEGFR test screens for the presence of Exon 19 deletions, Exon 21 L858R,
Exon 20 T790M, C797S mutations in blood specimens using droplet digital PCR
technology. This test is useful for assessing and monitoring whether TKI therapies
would be effective mostly for lung cancer patients.
The pBRAF V600ETM test screens for the presence of BRAF V600E mutation in
blood specimens using droplet digital PCR technology. The test targets lung, thyroid,
colorectal, and melanoma and it is useful for assessing whether the indicated
therapies would be useful. It is suggested that if the test results are positive,
dabrafenib, and trametinib can be used as targeted therapy.
Guardant360® identifies somatic mutations of 73 genes, proven to be clinically
relevant, and reports on microsatellite instability (MSI) status through the detection
of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in blood specimens using NGS technologies. The
test is suitable for patients with advanced solid tumors. The report would present
targeted treatment options including approved therapies and therapies undergoing
late-stage clinical trials, as well as immunotherapy options. The test would be
performed in the US.
BRCA Zoom® identifies germline mutation of BRCA1 and BRCA2. The test is suitable
for patients who have been diagnosed with breast, ovarian, prostate, and pancreatic
cancer; people with family history of the above mentioned cancer and other cancer
high-risk groups.
Each person carries BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. These two genes are mainly
responsible for repairing damaged DNA and maintaining stable cell growth.
If a person carries a mutation of the BRCA gene, the risks of developing breast, ovarian,
prostate cancer or pancreatic cancer in a lifetime also increases. Also, the family
members of that person would also have a possibility of carrying the mutated BRCA
genes.
| June 2019 | 17

OncoSnap® is a pioneering tumor tissue profiling test which screens for clinically
relevant somatic mutations of 130 genes in solid tumor tissues by using NGS
technologies, and offers FDA-approved therapies undergoing clinical trials.
Able to detect single nucleotide variations (SNVs), insertions and deletions (indels),
selected fusions and copy number alterations
OncoSnap BRCATM is a pioneering NGS-based tumor tissue profiling test which
screens for somatic mutations of BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes in solid tumor tissues.
This test is useful for assessing patients who are diagnosed with breast cancer,
ovarian cancer and prostate cancer on whether they could be benefited from selected
PARP inhibitor treatments.
OncoSnap NonetTM screens for 9 genes in tumor tissue samples, intending to aid
physicians to identify multi-genetic biomarkers for potential treatment options for
primary diagnosed non-small-cell lung cancer patients.
PD-L1 IHC 22C3 pharmDx is a qualitative immunohistochemical assay using
Monoclonal Mouse Anti-PD-L1, Clone 22C3 to detect PD-L1 protein in FFPE tissue
specimens using EnVision FLEX visualization system on Autostainer Link 48. It
detects PD-L1 expression with a dynamic range of tumor-positive (TPS) 0-100% and
combined positive score (CPS) 0-10+.
Cancers include lung cancer, gastric cancer, urothelial cancer, cervical cancer, etc.
EmbryoSafeTM screens all 24 chromosomes of IVF and ICSI embryos to detect
pathogenic chromosome copy number changes, including aneuploidy, mosaicism,
unbalanced translocations, and microduplications/microdeletions (> 10 Mb).
5. With respect to your distinctive products and services, how have you helped bring positive developments in the
healthcare industry?
Sanomics contributed to provide genomic tests to help doctors decide personalized cancer solutions for patients. We keep
providing solutions to tackle with the pain points in current cancer management process. For example, Sanomics is the
first local private company in Hong Kong to adopt liquid biopsy, a non-invasive cancer screening technology that spares
patients from the painful tissue biopsy, a traditional procedure of collecting tissue samples from tumors. Another example
is that tissue samples often run outs before answering all the clinical questions that guide treatment selection, therefore,
TM
by launching OncoSnap Nonet , this test can screen for 9 genes in tumor tissue samples to make best use of tissue.
6. Are there any social activities that your company organizes to uplift healthcare space?
To raise the public awareness of adopting genomic test in cancer management, Sanomics organizes workshops and
seminars for healthcare professionals and general public. We also co-operate with our strategic partners, such as
18
| June 2019 |

AstraZeneca and Bio-Rad to organize large scale symposium, to discuss about the latest development of genomic
diagnostics and provide a platform for intellectual exchange in the healthcare industry.
7. Tell us some interesting things about your leader (CEO, CFO, COO or any other personality which you want to
highlight in this issue).
“Keep moving, keep thinking and keep solving”, this is the common value that we share in Sanomics.
8. Mention the notable awards and accreditations Sanomics has received so far.
So far, Sanomics has won 19 awards. Some highlighted awards include:
2018 The Top 50 Innovative Biotechnology Enterprises in Guangdoug-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area by
ZDVC Research Institute, KPMG & Guangdoug Medical Valley
Innovative Business Gold Award 2018 by The Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited and Hong
Kong Economic Times
Caring Company Award by The Hong Kong Council of Social Service
9. Can you share with us your upcoming projects?
Big data will be our next step. Big Data is everywhere in our daily life, actually DNA big data can also be digitalized to
assist scientists and doctors to analyze and make advances in cancer treatment. Currently, there is no existing DNA
database of Asian cancer patients. To address the need for building Asian cancer patients’ big data, we initiate to establish
a DNA Big Data Centre in Hetao district at Lok Ma Chau. By doing so, we aim to attract more genetic related start-ups to
set up their offices in Great Bay Area, so as to create an ecosystem of biotechnology companies in Great Bay Area.
The initial design of this DNA big database is by subscription base. The meta data of the database will be open for public
access. However, to get full access, users must register and pay certain amount of subscription fee, as well as unveiling
their data model to sustain the platform. The three main roles of the owner of this DNA Big Data Centre are - first, to
provide basic legal support and protection to the DNA data supplying and demanding sides; second, to set up a rating
scheme and payment scheme for DNA data transaction; and thirdly, to be the DNA big data manager. The idea of this
Asian DNA big data base is like a combination of Asian DNA eBay and DNA cloud.
We believe that more valuable studies and commercialized applications of DNA data will be generated once this Asian
Big Data sharing platform has been launched. We foresee that ultimately this will enhance the overall life quality and
improve the cancer solution for
Asian.
Fig.: Important Milestones in the Journey of Sanomics
| June 2019 | 19

Tania Martin-Mercado
Chief Technology Ofcer
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Tania Martin-Mercado, PhD, is the Chief Technology Ofcer of YGEIA,
a digital healthcare company focused on home healthcare and chronic disease
management. She holds various degrees in IT, healthcare, as well as biotechnology and
is seasoned with a lot of experience at various prestigious posts throughout the years. Being a
curious soul and always been fascinated with technology, Tania has been a part of various
healthcare innovations.
22
| June 2019 |

Industry Insight
WHAT
DIGITAL STARTUPS
NEED TO SUCCEED IN THE
HEALTHCARE SPACE
e hear a lot of buzz in the industry and in the
Wmarketplace about the latest in digital
healthcare. From artificial intelligence, machine
learning, remote patient monitoring and wearable
technology to home monitoring and data, data, data –
digital healthcare has morphed into one of the most
transformative healthcare trends.
While this is one of the most exciting times to be in the
digital healthcare market, startups focused on this space
need to make sure their product and service have three-fold
impact: Improved patient outcomes, reduced cost of
delivery, and quality of care. Cost, quality and patient
experience often go unnoticed or ignored in favor of
technical functionality. The latest and greatest digital
healthcare technology will fail if the patients don’t
understand how to use it, providers can’t implement it into
their workflow, and payors won’t reimburse for its use.
By starting with a patient-centered focus, digital startups
will find they may need to slow down and get a better
understanding of the healthcare industry, which operates
differently than the tech world. There are more stakeholders
in healthcare that need consideration: doctors, patients,
insurers, regulators; each of these stakeholders holds a
unique perspective on the technology being adopted.
Healthcare is complex because patients are complex. As
digital startups focus on one area, such as a particular
disease, they may stumble onto the multiple factors that
contribute to that disease, what insurers do and don’t cover
related to that disease and its symptoms, and more variables
that directly or indirectly affect their product or service.
The development of a product or service requires research
into clinical practice, medical study, patient and doctor
interviews, and several focus groups. Digital healthcare
startups need to have patience – something that is
unattractive to some investors, causing digital healthcare
startups to rush into product development too quickly.
Instead, involving key stakeholders early in the
development process and fully understanding the concerns
and perspective will allow these startups to impact the
healthcare space where it matters most – patient care.
The Medical Futurist published a fantastic article earlier
this year that highlights why healthcare startups fail.
Forgetting about the patient, not including the provider,
difficulty creating clinical value and overclaiming what the
technology can do area just a few of areas discussed in this
article.
Another area often overlooked by digital healthcare startups
is the need to integrate. Healthcare data is massive, and
there is no “central repository” to draw from. By
understanding and embracing the need for shared services,
integration with other startups or providers in the healthcare
industry can foster innovation and better meet patient need
or demand. Instead startups may focus on siloed solutions
that make it difficult for providers to implement into their
practice, thus not offering value to the patient. By
understanding how patient data is viewed from a provider
and payor perspective, digital healthcare startups will find
out how their product or service will be most useful.
This is such an exciting time to be in the healthcare space.
The satisfaction of making a positive impact in
communities by improving patient care is why many
startups dive into the healthcare space. By taking a few of
these points into consideration, digital healthcare startups
will find their endeavors bearing fruit.
| June 2019 | 23

‘‘
‘‘
eadquarter in Helsinki, Finland; David Health Solutions Ltd.
His a rehabilitation solutions provider for musculoskeletal
problems. Established in the year 1981 by Arno Parviainen,
the CEO, the company has its operations on a global platform. The
company is transforming spine and orthopedic care with a data-driven,
device-based exercise therapy solution that is directly in consensus with
the latest guidelines. It promotes exercise and cognitive support as the
first line treatment for most chronic musculoskeletal problems.
Exercise combined with the body’s ability to regenerate is a powerful
tool. Unfortunately, it is underutilized in healthcare. However, times are
changing. What DHS found out over 30 years ago is becoming the
norm now. Indeed, its solution used to be the last remedy in the
toolbox; now, it is the first. Decades ago, Arno was convinced that the
best way to treat musculoskeletal pain was targeted and controlled
exercise therapy using specially designed devices. Having started small,
David Health Solutions has now set up more than 350 centers around
the world using its intelligent solutions for spine and orthopedic care.
The Journey of Innovation & Intelligence
Several years were spent on intense research and development in
building biomechanically optimal training devices for each joint. David
Health Solutions quickly found out that with this approach it was
possible to start movement and training, even for the patients suffering
from severe pain. The key was to design devices that were gentle for
the joints, but demanding for the muscles. The company visualizes
becoming the torchbearer in one of the biggest changes in healthcare,
covering the most costly and debilitating healthcare problem.
“In anything we do, the well-being of the patient is always the most
24
| June 2019 |

important factor. No technology alone can solve these
problems unless there are unified minds at all levels to
bring the benefits to the patient,” asserts Arno. The
company is strictly a ‘school medicine’ company,
meaning that it makes no unsubstantiated claims and
bases its philosophy on data and science. Therefore, to
keep up with technology, it is now developing an AI
system that can learn from the hundreds of thousands of
patient cases to provide better and more individualized
care for each patient.
David Health Solutions works on the core value of
‘patient wellbeing’, this is also the reason it is
transforming itself from a device company to a service
company. “This is the only way we can ensure the best
quality and operational efficiency. We have centers
under the “Nordic Health” brand, either owned by us or
under our management in Finland, Netherlands, Saudi
Arabia, and now coming to USA. Our first Nordic Health
Spine and Ortho Center will open in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in
partnership with neurosurgeons. The next ones will open
in California and New Jersey,” says Arno. There is a
great need for integrated services providing the whole
continuum of care, believes DHS.
curves, guaranteeing safe and pain-free training
experience. Its cloud based, state-of-the-art IT system
guides and motivates the patient and simultaneously
collects all relevant data automatically for easy
reporting.
Every device is also a testing device for strength and
mobility. Based on these test results, the software will
automatically provide individualized training weights
and movement ranges. All parameters of the exercise are
digitally controlled this way. Nordic Health clinic, which
is equipped with the full system, is frequently visited by
the staff of the clinic for exercise and preventative care.
“It is great to see everyone, from our COO to our
Marketing Associates, so enthusiastic to utilize the
technology for both rehabilitation and preventive care,”
he says.
The company’s medical rehabilitation system is unique
because it is the only fully equipped solution in the
market. The DAVID product portfolio includes
intelligent devices that specifically target the spine, hip
& knee, and shoulder joints. This is great news for
rehabilitation clinics because the practice can offer
Distinctive Services and Solutions
The David Exercise Therapy Solution utilizes specially
designed devices with joint-specific isolation and loading
| June 2019 | 25

patients care for a variety of musculoskeletal problems
with a turn-key solution that has been validated in a
number of studies and in use in hundreds of centers.
Distinguishing Itself from Others
Typical services in this area are run by therapists on a
one-to-one basis, using poor and outdated tools. This is a
very consuming work for the therapists and the work is
typically quite random. There are no standardized and
structured programs and due to high costs, most
programs are cut short before the patient is well.
DAVID’s innovative solution uses advanced training
technology and cloud-based software for guidance,
control, and data-gathering. This has dramatically
changed the role of the therapists from manual workers
to that of a coach, expert, and motivator. After a few
sessions with the therapists, a patient learns to use the
system independently and is empowered to take care of
his/her own health. This frees the therapists to
concentrate on the more difficult cases, while the
technology guides the other patients through the
program. “Up to six patients can be treated by one
therapist,” says Arno.
This has also opened a completely new market for
medical centers, the on-going prevention care with a
membership model. Most of the patients that went
through the program are willing to continue once a week
in the maintenance program. This requires very little
personnel resources and provides steady income stream
for the clinic.
Awards and Appreciations
The company and Parviainen have been awarded tens of
different patents in connection to technical solutions and
methods. The company’s production has an ISO 13485
certificate which is GMP in Europe, covering production
of medical devices. All the devices are also separately
medically certified. The praise it receives form its
26
| June 2019 |

customers speaks leaps and bounds of the company’s excellent
service.
“We at St. Lucas in Bruges, Belgium, adopted the use of device-based
back treatment already in 1998. Due to the evidence of its efficacy, a
national insurance code was issued for this method. In December of
2015, we moved to a new phase in our operation when we changed to
a fully integrated DAVID Solution with automatic adjustments,
patient guidance, and tracking of all critical variables. Our
experience is that patients are more motivated, results seem to be
better, and integration to the hospital’s electronic patient record
system saves a lot of administrational work.”−Dr. Marc Soenen, AZ
Sint-Lucas Hospital
“Having been a neurosurgeon for over thirty years, I have always
maintained the desire to explore conservative, non-operative options
for my patients. In 2015, we became acquainted with the DAVID
Spine Concept. We have been so impressed with the DAVID Solution
that we are on our third set of DAVID Spine equipment and have now
integrated DAVID’s hip and shoulder therapy as well. It is rewarding
to see that active rehabilitation can dramatically change people’s
lives for the better and help them avoid surgery.” −Luke Knox M.D.
F.A.C.S, Northwest Arkansas Neurosurgery Clinic
Bright Future of DAVID
The fact that device-based exercise therapy is going to gain ground in
the medical world is already clear. National level insurance
reimbursements and contracts with health ministries in different
countries are a proof of that, believes Arno. “When people become
more familiar with these ideas and have a chance to personally try in
practice how the system works, attitudes will change,” he says. The
company strives to improve its operations and offerings to continue to
provide the world’s most comprehensive solution for musculoskeletal
rehabilitation.
The next major jump forward will be when David Health Solutions
will put its AI engine in clinical use. This system will provide the
most accurate and individualized care of any system available. It will
consider all background factors of the patient, like diagnosis, pain
level, education, psychological profile, test results, and so on. It will
well understand that musculoskeletal problems are complex, and not
only physical, and therefore it is critical to incorporate all success and
failure factors in the program.
To know more, visit www.davidhealth.com
Mr. Arno Parviainen
CEO & Founder
“Life is a Marathon”
Arno Parviainen knows the power of
exercise firsthand. A er mul ple
injuries in water skiing, cycling, and
tennis, he could have been disabled
with any of those incidences. But he
was fortunate to know the possibili es
device-based training can offer. The
most serious injury caused a caudaequina
with total nerve block and
paralyzed his calves. It took him five
years of persistent training and running
before he was able to run same
distances and at same speeds as before
the accident. His experience is well
documented in his blog: “Life is a
marathon”.
Parviainen has a degree in economics,
but his knowledge in how to build
biomechanically correct devices is very
rare in the industry. He started his
interest a er travelling in the US at the
age of seventeen and got acquainted
with devices in the market there. He
built his own set of devices at the age
of eighteen and from there on his
passion has been to develop
technologies that can help pa ents
suffering in back and joint pain.
| June 2019 | 27

In-house Opinion
Social Media
Marketing
A Necessary Trend to Pick for Healthcare Professionals
Today, we don’t know if we are conquering the digital world or the digital world is
conquering us. Living in an era like this, we need to ensure we are abreast with all the
trends and developments that directly affect us. One trend that has moved all the
industries and all parts of the world is the extensive use of social media. The millennial
generation has embraced various social platforms with open arms and it is now a major part of
their lives. On the top of this generation is the next, generation Z. Generation Z, also known as
the iGeneration, is immersed in technology. They spend most of their time on social media.
It has, therefore, become very important for all types of businesses in all the sectors to leverage
the technique of social media marketing to attract the millennials and genzers. This will not only
increase the sales but help you build a chain of loyal customers.
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| June 2019 |

| June 2019 | 29

Healthcare industry is also affected by this trend, but it lags
behind in exploiting it to the fullest. Let’s understand what
benefits it brings to you.
The idea of searching and following a doctor on some
social platform would seem absurd if you thought about it a
few years back. But, time has changed and so has the trend.
When it comes to health, although people won’t shop
around, they will still look for the best. Advertising
everything that a provider has to offer on a platform
reaching anyone and everyone is a great idea to mark
him/her in the minds of people.
Additionally, users, all around the globe, surf their social
media feeds number of times a day. If one makes sure to
update their account regularly, users are likely to come
across their post number of times. This leaves an impact on
the users. Where else can one make their presence felt so
frequently?
It also allows a company to connect with their patients in
real-time. And this can be done from anywhere and
everywhere!
With social media, you can ensure customer-centricity.
Putting up health tips and staying in touch with the patients
through social platforms are some ways to do this.
Moreover, healthcare providers can put up about the
practices, services, and products that they provide and the
stories of how they have helped others for better. This will
help them build a sense of trust in the clients as well as the
audience visiting their account.
Other than this, social media marketing comes with a lot
more advantages. To stand out and make it fun, here are a
few ways that will help.
Educational Posts
A healthcare brand can educate their clients or patients
through their social media feed. This can include posting
health tips, a video of successful surgery carried by a
hospital, awareness and precautions for particular disease,
short description of a new device or technology, and many
more. Being connected with the brand, the patients will
look out for such tips and probably implement them as well.
Not only will it help the brand in building better
relationship with its clients, but also help improve the
patients’ lifestyle.
30
Start a Campaign, Use Hash tags
It is a very good idea for a healthcare company to start its
own campaign on social media. The campaign can be about
anything from awareness about a disease to encouraging
audience to share their success stories to starting a social
initiative and calling out audience to join in. Using hash
tags to promote such campaigns brings a lot of benefits. Say
for example, a company starts a campaign for the patients
of aids, calling out people to share the success stories of
themselves or their loved ones in conquering aids. Hash tag
like #companynameforaids can be used by everyone joining
in the campaign. This helps improve the company’s
branding alongside a good cause.
Interactive Communication
Clients/patients do not usually indulge in the interactive
communication with the healthcare providers. On a social
platform, this can be initiated. This will help the patients
feel more close to the company and hence, build a long,
trustful relationship.
Leverage Infographics
Infographics can help one provide highly informative
content in very short time. Without taking up a lot of the
audience’s time, a company can portray its strengths with
the help of infographics. A step further is infographic
videos. They say a lot of things in matter of seconds. Also,
the combination of an audio, video, content, and colors is
easier to remember and leaves a high impact on the
viewers.
These are just some of the ways to leverage social media
for marketing by healthcare brands. The scope for ideas is
wide, as when it comes to creativity, the sky is the limit. It
is the need of the hour to walk with the trends of the world
and use them for your benefit. Social media marketing
brings in a vast opportunity for healthcare companies to
brand and advertise their strengths and connect to the
clients better.
- Aishwarya Nawandhar, Editor
| June 2019 |

Accutest Research
Laboratories
The Preferred CRO Partner for
Healthcare Companies
he healthcare industry in India
Thas caught pace and is moving
ahead with continuous
developments. CROs are playing a
major role in this and have witnessed a
positive growth in the past few years.
Through outsourced R&D services to
the pharma, clinical device, and
biotechnology companies, CROs bring
in the promise of further developments
in the healthcare space. From clinical
research to product development, these
companies provide the processes and
services on contract basis. One of the
leading companies contributing to the
future of Indian healthcare industry
through its comprehensive services is
Accutest Research Laboratories (I)
Pvt. Ltd.
Headquartered in Navi Mumbai,
Accutest is a top-notch independent
and internationally accredited Indiabased
Contract Research Organization
(CRO). Incepted in 1998, it offers bestin-class
services along the whole drug
development process to
pharmaceutical, generics, and
biotechnology companies. The
company operates out of three facilities
viz. Navi Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and
Baroda. Accutest has emerged to be the
undisputed leader in BABE segment
for over two decades now.
Dr. Satish Sawant
Founder & CEO
The Sculptor of Accutest
Dr. Satish Sawant, the Founder and
CEO of Accutest, is a very down to
earth technocrat and a cricket
enthusiast. He has completed his
doctorate in analytical chemistry. He
has spearheaded and shaped the
incredible journey of Accutest as one
of leading CROs in the industry
through his sheer grit, farsighted
business strategies, and zeal to
consistently add value to research
industry. His business acumen has
rightly led him to exploit the huge
demand in the market for BABE
studies conduction as a mandatory
regulatory requirement for the generic
pharma manufacturers.
Dr. Sawant has been instrumental in
manifold growth of Accutest by setting
up a friendly and inclusive work
culture, which does not compromise on
quality while serving the clients with
utmost integrity and efficiency.
Journeying to the Top
The idea of Accutest Research
Laboratories was on the mind of Dr.
Sawant since he completed his Ph. D in
Pharmaceutical Sciences. After serving
Indian pharma industry for about 15
years in the areas of drug research
related to pharma testing using various
modern chromatographic techniques,
Dr Sawant set on a path to turn his
long cherished dream into reality. In
1998, Accutest entered the industry as
a small startup. Initially taking up
small projects, the company gradually
consolidated its position in the CRO
industry.
When Accutest had started making its
mark, there were not many USFDA
accredited laboratories available to
outsource clinical research
requirements for pharma organisations.
Pharma market was opening up and
Indian Pharma Industry was gearing up
to launch their products in developed
countries like US and Europe. Thus, in
2004, the company got the approval
from USFDA. After this initial step,
there was no looking back whether it
was to add new facilities, increase
capacities or subsequent audits and
approvals from prominent regulatory
bodies across the world.
Under steady leadership of Dr Sawant,
Accutest kept on innovating itself by
adding range of diverse services.
Accutest and its leadership have
consistently been recognized for its
success and constant good work with
prestigious awards and accolades
throughout its journey of 21 years so
far.
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| June 2019 |

Eclectic Services
Accutest provides services across
various verticals like
Bioavailability/Bioequivalence
(BA/BE) studies for Generic Industry,
Clinical Development Services (CDS)
for New Chemical Entities, and Bioanalytical
Services to Biologics/Biosimilar
drug molecules. Speaking
about all that they offer to the clients,
Dr. Sawant says, “At Accutest, we
assist Pharma industries in their drug
development life cycle by evaluating its
safety, efficacy, ADME character, and
quality aspect before the product is
certified as appropriate for marketing.
As a CRO, we become a part of the
pharmaceutical organizations in their
research program to evaluate
medicines for their quality and test on
human population for the safety,
effectiveness, and blood levels of the
drug after they are consumed.”
Accutest has undoubtedly emerged to
be the preferred CRO for first-to-file
studies. The company also focuses on
Phase II-IV clinical trials services for
drug development companies in India
and abroad. It conducts clinical trials
as per Standard Operating Procedures
(SOPs) developed in-house, in
accordance with ICH GCP guidelines
and Indian GCP to accomplish and
efficiently cater to requirements of its
clients.
Accutest Biologics, its subsidiary, is a
one-stop solution for analytical and
bio-analytical services from early stage
characterization to the late stage
clinical evaluation of biologics.
Bioanalytical services include
Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics,
and Immunogenicity assessment of
biologics, bio-therapeutics, biosimilars,
vaccines, and non-biological complex
drugs using high-end assay formats
like ELISA, MSD, and GYROS. It also
provides in vitro activity/potency and
bioassays services for evaluating the
biological activities besides toxic
kinetics and related services.
What sets It Apart?
Being in clinical research field for 21
years now, Accutest is setting a niche
in the industry with its unmatched
expertise and services. The success
stories of Accutest and accreditations
from global regulators, like US FDA,
WHO, EMA, ANVISA, DCGI, MCC
and other prominent authorities, stand
as a testament to its unwavering
commitment to international quality
standards and operating procedures.
Recently, the company received the
prestigious OECD GLP certification by
NGCMA. Accutest is the first and only
independent biologics testing facility in
India to be honored with this
international accreditation. The
company constantly strives to reinvent
itself, along with providing advanced
services to its clients.
Incredible Team
Accutest takes great pride in its
dynamic team, which understands
customer requirements and gives
optimal solutions. Dr. Sawant asserts,
“We have a rich pool of well qualified
and dedicated professionals, these are
our assets. Their rich experience and
involvement during clients’ drug
development program gives clients the
confidence to outsource their clinical
development needs. Timely delivery,
our regulatory history, global reach,
staff and our ability to work hand-inhand
with the clients are some of our
value propositions which set us apart
from other competitors in the market.”
Perfect R&D Partner
Accutest is the partner of choice for
generic drug manufacturers looking to
execute BA/BE studies with a high
degree of quality and speed, at
competitive prices. It has one of the
largest data banks of 41,000+
volunteers along with strong regulatory
track records. The company’s state-ofthe-art
infrastructure comprises of
more than 400 beds, 38 LCMS-MS,
and 700+ validated methods, enabling
it to serve the clients with ease and
quality. Acutest is rendering numerous
benefits to its clients by catering to
their complete, complex, and cross
functional service requirements, under
one roof with ease and expertise.
‘‘ We offer an
umbrella
contract-based
R&D services to
our industry
partners with a
focus on quality
and quick
turnaround
time
‘‘
| June 2019 | 33

SpineMark
Corporation
Transforming Care Delivery Through
Exceptional Care Services
Spine injuries can be life altering
and fatal in some cases. A great
deal of perseverance and
dedicated physical exercise is required
to recover from spinal injuries or
surgeries. One such organization that is
built around the needs of spine patients
is SpineMark Corporation.
Headquarter in San Diego, California,
the company was established in 2011.
Its patient-centric, transparent, and
outcome-accountable services are what
set it apart from its counterparts.
The model of SpineMark’s spine
centers of excellence are built around
the needs of patients. The centers
advocate for their patients and cater to
the patients’ needs. The service
protocols for patients include an
integrated delivery system with a team
of multispecialty providers, including
personnel for diagnostic, operative,
non-operative care, and holistic or
conservative care modalities.
Every SpineMark center starts with the
physician and surgeon champions, who
recognize the need for collaboration, a
facility partner, and algorithms from
the least to most invasive type of care.
This is based on failure along a
cascading chain of modalities, team
conference staffing of patients, clinical
research activities, and a clinical
Marcy T. Rogers
President & Chief Executive Officer
operating committee of four or more
members of the team who provide
clinical oversight.
A nurse navigator and an intake
coordinator are recruited to provide
coordination of care and follow up. A
medical “gatekeeper” is recruited to
manage new and established patients
through their care needs and the system
itself. Outcomes data and process
measures as well as transparency are
the key components of SpineMark’s
system for patient care.
Thought Leadership
Marcy T. Rogers, M.Ed., is the
President and Chief Executive
Officer of SpineMark. Rogers has built
her executive career in the healthcare
industry through the development of
niche surgical centers of excellence
fueled by innovation and clinical
research. A proven leader, she has built
trust and rapport with physicians,
hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers,
and medical device manufacturers in
spine, orthopedics, biologics, and
interventional pain. She has dedicated
over 30 years of her life to delivering
results.
Through alliances, partnerships, and
collaborations in the field of spinal
care, Rogers is getting things done. Her
destination center model integrates and
aligns stakeholders in the delivery of
spine services, and she has successfully
demonstrated solid financial results as
well as strong returns on investment
for the hospitals, ambulatory surgery
centers, and physician groups she has
managed and counseled. She has
consulted and worked with over 300
hospitals and surgery centers on their
musculoskeletal and neurological
service lines, formation of new centers,
or expanding facilities on its campuses
in the US and abroad.
Through her recognitions and
endeavors, Rogers has established
herself as a key opinion leader in the
field of spine among her clients,
professional colleagues, and peers.
The Vision of SpineMark
The company strives to create a new
standard of care for patients suffering
from back pain. “Currently there is no
standard of care and the field of spine
is fragmented at best with many
different providers labeling themselves
as spine experts as naturopaths,
chiropractors, spine surgeons,
interventional pain specialists,
neurologists, et al.,” says Rogers.
SpineMark is working towards
building a network of dozens of sites
34
| June 2019 |

across the US and outside the US,
including in Kuwait, China, and
Europe. The company works towards
standardizing the treatment of patients
suffering from back pain via a
treatment protocol, quality service,
positive outcomes, efficacy, and quality
data.
The organization’s values are always
focused on the least invasive “do no
harm” approach to treating patients.
This starts with 4-6 weeks of
conservative care, which includes
interventional pain procedures to
minimally invasive spine surgery.
These are the first choices if supported
by the patient’s condition. “We want
the patient to have the right procedure
at the right time by the right doctor(s).
That is our mantra,” asserts Rogers.
Distinctive Services and Solutions
SpineMark is the premier global spine
service company for the development
of Spine Destination Centers and Spine
Research Organizations in partnership
with medical professionals, hospitals,
and industry medical manufacturers.
Its centers provide excellent medical,
operative, non-operative, and ancillar
services, all delivered under one
integrated delivery system. This
reduces patient chaos, cost, and
duplication of procedures.
The establishment of clinical research
units at each site, as well as
mainstreaming minimally invasive
spine surgery procedures at numerous
sites of the organization, is the most
distinct feature of its service. The
company’s model is built on diseasebased
medical management and is
measured for quality.
Communication is the key to success,
believes Rogers. Thanks to the use of a
nurse navigator and intake coordinator,
patients never fall through the cracks.
Speaking about the nurse navigator
support system, Rogers says, “We
support patients through our services,
model, management of their distinct
needs throughout the course of
treatment by using nurse navigators to
guide them through various phases of
care.” SpineMark also often links new
patients with existing patients who
have been treated by its team and have
similar pretreatment or surgical issues.
Hence, its post-operative patients are
the greatest advocates for proving
SpineMark’s model.
SpineMark holds itself accountable
through outcomes and quality data
collection, transparency, and a focused
approach on the identification of the
somatic origin of the pain. Diagnosis is
key; surgery is always the last resort.
Bright Future for SpineMark
“We are looking to expand our sites
throughout the US and abroad, with
centers locally, regionally, and
nationally,” says Rogers. There are 1.8
billion people disabled by back pain.
The company wants to be a resource to
as many of these patients as possible.
Advancement in Spine Treatment
“The new development in spine
treatment has been ‘through clinical
research’,” asserts Rogers. Minimally
invasive spine surgery techniques are
finally taking the field by storm and are
becoming mainstream. “A few years
ago, this was not the case,” she
continues. Technological advances in
robotics, instrumentation, fixation, and
implants combined with cell and gene
therapy biologics is changing the
treatment of spinal conditions.
Today, one can perform complex spine
procedures - both lumbar and cervical
fusion - arthroscopically, reducing
rehabilitation and recovery, and
allowing patients to return to normal
function in little time. Spine treatment
is becoming more holistic and
non-invasive with the advancement in
technology. SpineMark, with its
clinical research units, is making sure
it keeps up with the innovation.
‘‘ Our diagnostic,
conservative
care, holistic,
operative,
non-operative
care, and clinical
research units
are set up to
participate,
so that we
are always
advancing care
through research
‘‘
| June 2019 | 35

36
| June 2019 |

Novel Discoveries
Top Health Tech
I n n o vat i o n s I N 2 0 1 9 t h at a r e
Breaking
t
h
e
Barriers
“Every once in a while, a new technology, an old problem, and a big idea turn into an innovation.”
- Dean Kamen
very day, new technologies are emerging. Humans are using all their brains to invent something new,
Esomething unique, and something that helps mankind. With all the recent advancements, technology
in the healthcare and medical sector has geared up as well. The embedding of articial intelligence
and IoT is now done extensively in the healthcare sector. Various new techniques are being invented that
help society to grow in a self-sufcient manner. From electric cars to generating electricity through nuclear
energy, humans are advancing in all aspects.
Health has always been on the top priority for a person so it is essential that he/she is treated within time
and with perfection. Due to innovative minds, there have been various upgrades in the eld. There are
treatments for many diseases and disorders which were not thought of a few years ago. Various instruments
and facilities have become affordable to the healthcare service providers like hospitals and clinics.
Researchers are trying hard to provide everything for better treatment of the public. Various medicines have
been used to treat diseases successfully and many diseases have already been eradicated from the earth.
New types of equipment have helped the doctors in various complicated surgeries. In the following year,
there have been many new innovations for the betterment of the lives of people. Here are a few notable
technological innovations:
| June 2019 | 37

3-D PRINTING
Surgeries are very complicated and involve a lengthy process. Precision is
very important and practicing it beforehand is highly crucial. Doctors use
3-D models for practicing the surgeries. The 3-D printing machine
models are made in accordance with the patient’s anatomy. In recent
times, few important developments in 3-D printing have come in external
prosthetics, cranial or orthopedic implants, and custom airway stents. It
has also been helpful in surgical planning as well in complex open heart
surgeries. There are researches being carried out to print human tissue
that will make organ transplants possible.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
The biggest problem in making a drug for a rare disease is the huge data of
the patients and their compliance. Many researchers and pharmaceutical
companies are taking the help of AI to organize the data from the medical
records and nd commonalities with the diseases. AI has been a huge plus
point for doctors and general practitioners as it helps to collect and nd the
data of the patients whenever required. This technology is transforming all
areas of the healthcare industry, from work process control and diagnostics to
process automatization, productivity-enhancing, and enhancements in
diagnostics accuracy.
RNA-BASED
THERAPEUTICS
Recently, RNA-based therapeutics are being used where RNA is modied or
replaced before it forms into a protein. It allows the clinicians to detect any
genetic abnormality beforehand and treat the problem by replacing it
accordingly with functioning or non-functioning proteins. Advancement in
RNA therapeutics may even lead to solving the problems of rare diseases like
Huntington’s disease, neurologic disorders, and several forms of cancer.
NEW IMMUNOTHERAPY
TECHNIQUES
Basically, immunotherapy is a treatment for cancer. In this type of
treatment, white blood cells are increased in the patient’s body so as to
ght against various diseases. A variety of experiments are being carried
out in combination with joint therapy and engineered T-cells that can prove
to be effective against a wide range of tumor cells.
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| June 2019 |

ROBOTIC SURGERY
Robotics has been administered in various medical treatments. Nanobots are
being administered in bloodstreams of the patients that can diagnose and
prevent diseases. Movement disabilities can be monitored by exoskeletons
with the assistance of physical therapy. One of the major innovations of 2019
is robotic surgery. Now, robots can be useful in performing various
procedures during surgery. A robot can perform tasks and provide medical
assistance like giving an injection and gathering information. There are
supporting robots that manage to courier medical instruments and other
related supplies.
TELEHEALTH
With everything being digitized, there was a need to monitor a person’s health
through digital services. Now, this has become possible. Doctors can monitor
their patient's health even from a distance. The doctor can make a primary
conclusion from analyzing the report that is generated digitally. This way, the
expenses of the patients are reduced to a great extent.
HEALTH WEARABLE
As it is said in a famous quote, ‘Precaution is better than cure’, it is important
to maintain a healthy life. People have started to understand that being
healthy is really helpful in avoiding any future diseases or disorders. There
are various companies that have invented unique health wearable that help a
person track his/her own health. One can monitor the heart rate, glucose
level, physical activity, and also sleep timings with these. This way, the person
can analyze where he is lacking and work on it, accordingly.
GENOMICS
A person’s identity is from his/her genes. Even, what disease can affect a person
is decided by the genetic make of the body. Biotech companies have come up
with technology that can be helpful in decoding individual genomic makeup
and aid in enhancing the diagnosis and treatment for various genetic and nongenetic
diseases. These companies are further trying to develop a personalized
treatment with the help of this technology. In 2017, CRISPR, a gene editing tool
was used to successfully edit human embryos in which hypertrophic
cardiomyopathy, a complex heart disease, within 42 embryos was eradicated.
Technology has been proving to be working hand in hand with the healthcare industry for the betterment of the
quality of care provided. Every day, the world witness’s new developments and with this mankind is moving towards
more accurate and affordable treatment options.
- Shambhavi Mhetre, Editor
| June 2019 | 39