Digital Health Companies: Scaling Up in a Regulated World

Digital health technologies (DHTs) have surged over the last decade, boosted by advancements like electronic health records and the COVID-19 pandemic. More funding and regulatory backing have also fueled this growth. Yet, many DHT companies hit roadblocks when trying to expand. For instance, Pear Therapeutics and Proteus Digital Health both filed for bankruptcy after early wins. This spotlights the hurdles in sustaining growth in a heavily regulated healthcare sector. While general success factors are known, we don't fully grasp the particular challenges growth-stage DHT companies face. Why do some digital health companies struggle to grow? One reason could be the complex regulatory environment. Healthcare regulations are strict to ensure patient safety, but they can slow down innovation. Another challenge is the need for continuous funding. Digital health startups require substantial investment to develop and launch their products. If they can't secure enough funding, they might not be able to scale effectively. Moreover, the healthcare industry is known for its slow adoption of new technologies. Doctors and patients might be hesitant to switch to digital solutions, even if they offer benefits. This resistance can hinder the growth of digital health companies. Additionally, these companies often need to integrate their technologies with existing healthcare systems, which can be technically challenging and time-consuming. To overcome these challenges, DHT companies need to navigate the regulatory landscape skillfully and secure adequate funding. They also need to build strong relationships with healthcare providers and patients to encourage the adoption of their technologies. Understanding these challenges can help these companies plan better for sustainable growth.