American Heart Association Announces Finalists for Health Tech Competition

The American Heart Association's Center for Health Technology & Innovation has announced five finalists for its 7th annual Health Tech Competition, showcasing innovative solutions for treating and preventing cardiovascular diseases and stroke. The competition, supported by the Laerdal Million Lives Fund, aims to drive technological advancements that could potentially transform patient outcomes in heart and brain health.

The finalists, selected from a pool of healthcare technology startups, include Flow Medical (Chicago), Heka Heart (San Mateo, California), Powerful Medical (New York City), Proton Intelligence (Vancouver, Canada), and Rheoxtech, Inc. (Chicago). These companies will present their innovative technologies during the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2024 in Chicago on November 16-17.

The competition's focus on technological solutions for cardiovascular health is particularly significant given that cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States. With high rates of risk factors such as high blood pressure and obesity contributing to heart disease and stroke worldwide, there is a pressing need for accelerated advances in healthcare technology to bridge the gap between clinical recommendations and daily habits.

Finalists' presentations will be evaluated based on validity, scientific rigor, and potential impact on patient outcomes. The competition will be conducted in two parts – business and science pitches – each assessed by a panel of expert judges including prominent figures in healthcare, technology, and cardiovascular research.

The winner of the competition will receive membership in the Center for Health Technology & Innovation Innovators' Network, a consortium that connects entrepreneurs, providers, researchers, and payers. This membership offers valuable opportunities for collaboration, access to the Association's digital guidelines and recommendations, and support in developing clinical outcome studies.

Dr. Robert A. Harrington, chair of the American Heart Association's Health Tech Advisory Group, emphasized the importance of the competition, stating, "The Center for Health Technology & Innovation is dedicated to fostering impactful solutions for global health challenges. Through their network, members can collaborate, access valuable resources and accelerate advancements that address critical issues through cutting-edge science and technology."

As cardiovascular diseases continue to pose significant health challenges globally, this competition represents a crucial step in harnessing technology to improve patient care and outcomes. The innovative solutions presented by these finalists have the potential to revolutionize how we approach heart and brain health, ultimately contributing to the American Heart Association's mission of creating a world of longer, healthier lives for all.