Former Googler Adrian Aoun raises $100 million for walk-in AI healthcare pods
Forward Health's CarePods blend AI and medical expertise, offering a futuristic approach to healthcare.
In 2017, Forward Health embarked on a transformative journey, led by CEO Adrian Aoun, to redefine healthcare delivery. Their vision? To replace traditional medical staffing with advanced technology solutions like body scanners, smart sensors, and diagnostic algorithms. Fast forward to 2023, and this vision has crystallised into the CarePod – a standalone, AI-powered medical station designed to bring healthcare to the masses.
But what exactly are these CarePods? Imagine walking into a self-contained pod, located conveniently in malls or office buildings, to undergo medical tests typically performed in primary care offices – all without the physical presence of a doctor or nurse. This is the reality Aoun and his team have created. The CarePods, powered by custom AI, offer various diagnostic services, from blood tests to blood pressure readings, with real-time doctor prescriptions available almost instantly.
The Tech-First Approach: A Glimpse into Forward Health's Facilities
Forward Health's journey began with establishing high-tech medical facilities across major U.S. cities. These facilities, blending the aesthetics of healthcare and retail giants like Apple, provided a unique patient experience. Patients underwent comprehensive biometric assessments, generating up to 500 data points to aid diagnosis and treatment. This tech-first approach laid the groundwork for the development of the CarePods.
The Intersection of AI and Human Medical Expertise
The CarePods are not just about technology; they represent a harmonious blend of AI and human medical expertise. Patients interact with a large touchscreen, guiding them through various health checks. From heart health to diabetes screening, the CarePod offers a plethora of diagnostic options. Blood tests, skin scans, and even STD testing are conducted with state-of-the-art equipment, all within the privacy of the pod. Behind the scenes, Forward Health's team of doctors oversees the process, ensuring accurate diagnoses and appropriate treatment plans.
Accessibility and Affordability
One of the most striking aspects of Forward Health's CarePods is its business model. For a monthly fee of $99, users can access all the tests and features the CarePods offers. This subscription-based model not only makes healthcare more accessible but also more affordable. It's a significant departure from traditional healthcare models, particularly in countries where insurance and healthcare costs are perennial concerns.
A Visionary's Dream
Adrian Aoun's vision for Forward Health and the CarePods is not just about the present; it's a glimpse into the future of healthcare. Aoun, a computer scientist specialising in AI, envisions a world where healthcare is not confined to the walls of a doctor's office. His ambition extends to integrating the latest medical research into patient care plans, using AI to distil and apply cutting-edge findings. This approach not only democratises access to the latest medical knowledge but also ensures that patient care is continually evolving with the advancements in medical science.
Forward Health was founded in 2016 by Adrian Aoun, Erik Frey, Ilya Abyzov and Robert Sebastian. The company has since raised $657.50 million, including a $100 million round announced yesterday. Read more at TechCrunch.