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DTx Podcast with Eugene Borukhovich

DTx Podcast with Eugene Borukhovich

Part of Digital Health Today

Ep82: Special Episode: Digital Therapeutics Tailwinds

Welcome to another insightful episode of the DTx Podcast, where we dive into the evolution and expansion of digital therapeutics. As we discussed in our previous episode with Mike Pace, 2023 was a really tough year for DTx. With the significant developments in the industry so far in 2024, we felt it was important to update our community on the positive tailwinds we’ve seen in advancing much-needed digital therapies for patients. Host Eugene Borukhovich engages in a thought-provoking discussion with esteemed guests Dr. Jenna Carl, Andy Molnar, Marty Culjat, and Kirsten Tullia. The panel delves deep into the positive advancements and potential challenges within the DTx industry, offering their unique expertise and perspectives. [00:30] How is the expanding distribution channel in the US, including health systems, expected to impact the accessibility of digital mental health programs if new codes are finalized? [05:15] What are the tactical questions and nuances surrounding combining software with wearables or medical devices, and the potential consequences on commercial models? [12:45] What impact do the proposed expansion of coverage for digital mental health technology devices (DMHT) have on Medicare, Medicaid, and other healthcare systems, and what changes are expected in terms of operational plans for distributing and reimbursing digital mental health programs? [18:10] How is the transition to using digital therapeutics expected to continue evolving, and what are the anticipated challenges in terms of reimbursement and coverage policies? [23:30] What key factors contribute to the perceived impatience of investors in the market, and how does this influence the R&D cycles and push for further investments in new innovative digital therapies? [28:00] How important is Medicare reimbursement in attracting investor interest, and what are the potential proof points needed to bolster confidence in personalized and integrated solutions within the digital therapeutics industry? Tune in to the DTx Podcast to gain valuable insights into the evolving world of digital therapeutics and stay updated on the latest trends, legislative impacts, and entrepreneurial advice from industry leaders. If you’d like to learn more about sponsorship opportunities across Mission Based Media assets, visit our website at https://missionbasedmedia.com/ Guest Links and Resources: Connect with Dr. Jenna Carl on Linkedin Connect with Andy Molnar on Linkedin Connect with Marty Culjat on Linkedin Connect with Kirsten Tullia on Linkedin Listen to the episode with Mike Pace Host Links: Connect with Eugene Borukhovich: Twitter | LinkedIn Connect with YourCoach.health: Website | Twitter Check out Shot of Digital Health with Eugene and Jim Joyce: Website | Podcast App Follow Digital Health Today: Browse Episodes | Twitter | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram Follow Health Podcast Network: Browse Shows | LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
August 27, 2024

Ep81: Lessons Learned and Future Trends: 2023 – Year In Review with Mike Pace

In this episode of the DTx Podcast, Eugene Borukhovich sits down with Mike Pace, CEO and founder of PalmHealthCo, to delve into the latest developments and insights from the DTx industry from 2023 and to discuss what may be in store for 2024. Eugene and Mike cover various aspects of the DTx landscape, including the growing importance of FDA authorizations, the shift towards non-prescription solutions, and the maturation of the industry into operations and pricing. Learn more about the impact of FDA authorizations on scalability in the US healthcare system, the strategic integration of digital therapeutics with virtual care models, market consolidation, and the effects of decreased venture funding on the industry. 1. [04:00] What has the industry learned from Pear Therapeutics' initial growth and scaling and, ultimately, its bankruptcy? 2. [10:45] Mike mentions the importance of FDA authorizations for scalability in the US healthcare system. How does he foresee potential FDA approvals shaping the landscape for digital therapeutics in the near future? 3. [15:20] PalmHealthCo has been involved in integrating DTX with virtual care and pushing for a virtual first go-to-market model. How has this approach impacted their journey and success in the DTx space, and what are the potential implications for the industry as a whole? 4. [20:10] What is the importance of high-quality clinical evidence for achieving permanent listing under regulatory laws? How critical is this evidence generation for the future of digital therapeutics, and what challenges does Mike anticipate in this regard? 5. [25:40] Considering the rise of aggregators in the healthcare industry influencing the market for digital therapeutics, what strategies can DTx companies employ to navigate this evolving landscape? 6. [30:15] With the current state of venture funding and market consolidation in digital health, what advice does Mike have for startups in terms of maintaining a focus on positively impacting patients and families while navigating the industry's challenges? Tune in to the DTx Podcast to gain valuable insights into the evolving world of digital therapeutics and stay updated on the latest trends, legislative impacts, and entrepreneurial advice from industry leaders. Guest Links and Resources: Connect with Mike Pace on LinkedIn Host Links: Connect with Eugene Borukhovich: Twitter | LinkedIn Connect with Chandana Fitzgerald, MD: Twitter | LinkedIn Connect with YourCoach.health: Website | Twitter Check out Shot of Digital Health with Eugene and Jim Joyce: Website | Podcast App HealthXL: Website | Twitter | Join an Event Digital Therapeutics Podcast would not be possible without the support of leading DTx organizations. Thank you to: > Presenting Partner: Amalgam Rx > Contributing Partners and Sponsors: LSI | Bayer G4A | Lindus Health Follow Digital Health Today: Browse Episodes | Twitter | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram Follow Health Podcast Network: Browse Shows | LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
December 29, 2023

Ep80: Deciphering the DiGA Law and Germany’s Digital Therapeutics Landscape

In this episode of the DTx Podcast, Eugene Borukhovich hosts Philip Heimann, CEO of Vivira, a prominent player in the DTx landscape in Germany. "The genesis of Vivira was the need for personalized movement therapy - we wanted to provide people with a solution that was made just for them," says Philip.  This necessity led to the development of an innovative digital therapeutic solution that has made a significant impact in the market. Eugene and Philip dive into the profound impact of the DiGA law in Germany, passed in 2019, on Vivira's market growth. This legislation enabled general reimbursement and physician involvement in prescribing the app, marking a pivotal turning point for the company and the broader DTx landscape in Germany. In addition, Philip sheds light on the challenges faced by DTx startups in understanding the market complexities and securing suitable funders. He stresses the importance of selecting investors who can offer long-term support and emphasizes the significance of focusing on long-term goals and building high-value companies. 1. [05:30] What challenges did Vivira face in the early stages, being almost exclusively angel-funded, and how did this contribute to the development of their DTx solution? 2. [10:45] What pivotal role has the DiGA law played in enabling Viveira's growth in the market, and what are the implications of this legislation for other DTx companies in Germany? 3. [15:20] How has Vivira's approach of not starting in the direct-to-consumer market and focusing on the DIGA prescription model influenced its journey and success in the DTx space? 4. [20:10] What is the significance of high-quality clinical evidence, particularly RCT studies, for achieving permanent listing under the DiGA law? 5. [25:40] What are the challenges and potential solutions regarding the activation of digital therapies prescribed by doctors? 6. [30:15] As a serial entrepreneur, what critical advice does Philip have for DTX startups in navigating the complexities of the market and choosing investors? Join us on the DTx Podcast for valuable insights into the world of digital therapeutics, covering topics from legislative impacts to entrepreneurial advice. Subscribe now to stay updated on the latest episodes and continue exploring the dynamic realm of DTx. Guest Links and Resources: Connect with Phillip Heimann on LinkedIn Visit Vivira Host Links: Connect with Eugene Borukhovich: Twitter | LinkedIn Connect with Chandana Fitzgerald, MD: Twitter | LinkedIn Connect with YourCoach.health: Website | Twitter Check out Shot of Digital Health with Eugene and Jim Joyce: Website | Podcast App HealthXL: Website | Twitter | Join an Event Digital Therapeutics Podcast would not be possible without the support of leading DTx organizations. Thank you to: > Presenting Partner: Amalgam Rx > Contributing Partners and Sponsors: LSI | Bayer G4A | Lindus Health Follow Digital Health Today: Browse Episodes | Twitter | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram Follow Health Podcast Network: Browse Shows | LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
December 26, 2023

Replay: Virtual Reality for Chronic Pain Management

In this episode, we hear from Josh Sackman, President and Co-founder of AppliedVR. AppliedVR, in their own words, provide virtual reality-based treatments that represent a comprehensive approach to chronic pain that empowers patients with accessible digital tools self-managed in their own home. In this episode, we cover: The origin story of AppliedVR Transitioning from an app store for health VR to focus pain management market Patient experience and the pain management pipeline Funding journey and key funding milestones The scientific hypothesis of "mind over matter" behind AppliedVR's approach and evidence generation journey The FDA approval process for AppliedVR and lessons learned for entrepreneurs. AppliedVR's current business hypothesis and scaling plan Market channels and scaling VR Guest Links and Resources: Connect with Josh Sackman on LinkedIn Visit www.appliedvr.io Host Links: Connect with Eugene Borukhovich: Twitter | LinkedIn Connect with Chandana Fitzgerald, MD: Twitter | LinkedIn Connect with YourCoach.health: Website | Twitter Check out Shot of Digital Health with Eugene and Jim Joyce: Website | Podcast App HealthXL: Website | Twitter | Join an Event Digital Therapeutics Podcast would not be possible without the support of leading DTx organizations. Thank you to: > Presenting Partner: Amalgam Rx > Contributing Partners and Sponsors: Akili | Big Health | Click Therapeutics | Lindus Health | Orion Pharma Follow Digital Health Today: Browse Episodes | Twitter | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram Follow Health Podcast Network: Browse Shows | LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
December 19, 2023

Replay: The App Preventing Cognitive Decline

In this replay episode, we hear from Sylvain Piquet, COO and Co-founder of Five Lives, the app that leverages the new science of brain aging, neuroplasticity, and cognitive reserve to help people improve their brain health and prevent cognitive decline and dementia. In this episode, we cover: The origin story of Five Lives and the motivation behind focusing on dementia and cognitive decline. The demographics benefitting from using Five Lives Gamifying behaviour change Evidence generation and funding journey The advantages of direct-to-consumer distribution through the app store How digital therapeutics can fit within the NHS The challenges of implementing DTx across UK, French, and German markets Guest Links and Resources: Connect with Sylvain Piquet on LinkedIn Visit www.fivelives.health Host Links: Connect with Eugene Borukhovich: Twitter | LinkedIn Connect with Chandana Fitzgerald, MD: Twitter | LinkedIn Connect with YourCoach.health: Website | Twitter Check out Shot of Digital Health with Eugene and Jim Joyce: Website | Podcast App HealthXL: Website | Twitter | Join an Event Digital Therapeutics Podcast would not be possible without the support of leading DTx organizations. Thank you to: > Presenting Partner: Amalgam Rx > Contributing Partners and Sponsors: Akili | Big Health | Click Therapeutics | Lindus Health | Orion Pharma Follow Digital Health Today: Browse Episodes | Twitter | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram Follow Health Podcast Network: Browse Shows | LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
December 12, 2023

Replay: Harnessing the Power of Light: The Digital Solution for Myopia Treatment

In honor of Gift of Sight month we're replaying this insightful episode with Mark Wuttke, CEO of Dopavision. In their own words, Dopavision is pioneering the development of innovative solutions that target the eye’s innate dopamine pathway to address unmet needs in ophthalmology using digitally delivered light.  Topics include: The background to Dopavision The pediatric Myopia vs adult Myopia markets Patient experience using Dopavision Changes to clinical trials and the mechanism of action Plans for commercialization Potential future applications to other ophthalmological conditions and neurological conditions  The future of OTC vs Rx Guest Links and Resources: Connect with Mark Wuttke on LinkedIn Visit Dopavision Listen to Digital Therapeutics for Pediatrics, Oncology and Managing Pain with Francesca Wuttke Episode PDF Host Links: Connect with Eugene Borukhovich: Twitter | LinkedIn Connect with Chandana Fitzgerald, MD: Twitter | LinkedIn Connect with YourCoach.health: Website | Twitter Check out Shot of Digital Health with Eugene and Jim Joyce: Website | Podcast App HealthXL: Website | Twitter | Join an Event Digital Therapeutics Podcast would not be possible without the support of leading DTx organizations. Thank you to: > Presenting Partner: Amalgam Rx > Contributing Partners and Sponsors: LSI | Bayer G4A | Lindus Health Follow Digital Health Today: Browse Episodes | Twitter | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram Follow Health Podcast Network: Browse Shows | LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
December 5, 2023

Ep79: Learning Critical Skills Through Immersive Experience: Utilizing VR Therapy for Adolescent Autism Spectrum Disorder

In this episode, we hear from Vijay Ravindran, founder and CEO of Floreo. Floreo allows therapy to be more engaging and happen anywhere, assisting people in practicing critical social skills at their own pace through immersive experiences, starting with adolescent Autism spectrum disorder. In this episode, we cover: The founding story of Floreo Market for autism and neurodiversity The child and caregiver experience using Floreo Funding journey and key milestones User and caregiver experience using Floreo Scientific hypothesis and evidence generation journey Scaling virtual reality in healthcare Guest Links and Resources: Connect with Vijay Ravindran on LinkedIn Visit floreovr.com Host Links: Connect with Eugene Borukhovich: Twitter | LinkedIn Connect with Chandana Fitzgerald, MD: Twitter | LinkedIn Connect with YourCoach.health: Website | Twitter Check out Shot of Digital Health with Eugene and Jim Joyce: Website | Podcast App HealthXL: Website | Twitter | Join an Event Digital Therapeutics Podcast would not be possible without the support of leading DTx organizations. Thank you to: > Presenting Partner: Amalgam Rx > Contributing Partners and Sponsors: LSI | Bayer G4A | Lindus Health Follow Digital Health Today: Browse Episodes | Twitter | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram Follow Health Podcast Network: Browse Shows | LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
November 28, 2023

Replay: Transforming Health Care with Virtual Reality

We're seeing a broader consolidation of digital health solutions this year to bring together the amazing talentand the scientifically validated assets to drive scale in the market and improve unit economics. On the heels of last week's announcement of the merger between Fern Health and BehaVR tune into this replay episode to hear Eugene Borukhovich's conversation withwith Aaron Gani, Founder and CEO of BehaVR. BehaVR translates proven science into immersive and engaging XR therapeutics for mental and behavioral health. In this episode, we cover: Origin Story: Aaron Gani shares the origin story of BehaVR, starting from its inception in 2016 and the inspiration behind creating immersive XR therapeutics for mental and behavioral health. Funding Journey and Milestones: Walk through BehaVR's funding journey, uncovering the key milestones achieved with each funding round and how it has shaped the company's growth and impact in the digital therapeutics landscape. Patient Journey Using VR: Gain insights into the end customer experience offered by BehaVR, highlighting the effectiveness of immersive therapeutics in supporting mental well-being. Scientific Hypothesis and Evidence Generation: Explore the hypothesis that BehaVR is built upon and learn how their evidence generation journey is proving the effectiveness of their immersive XR therapeutics, showcasing the power of mind-body connections. Merging with OxfordVR and FDA Approval: Discover the decision-making process behind BehaVR's merger with OxfordVR and their journey towards FDA approval. Business Hypothesis and Scaling Plan: Delve into BehaVR's current business hypothesis and explore their scaling plan. Partnership with Sumitomo Dainippon: Aaron expands on BehaVR's partnership with Sumitomo Dainippon and discusses the commercial arrangement that led to this collaboration. Access to Care: Explore the accessibility of virtual reality therapy and its role in improving access to care for patients. Pear Therapeutics and the Future of PDTs: Aaron shares his thoughts on Pear Therapeutics and discusses the future of Prescription Digital Therapeutics (PDTs), providing insights into the evolving landscape of digital therapeutics and its potential to revolutionize mental health care. Guest Links and Resources: Connect with Aaron Gani on LinkedIn Visit BehaVR Episode PDF Host Links: Connect with Eugene Borukhovich: Twitter | LinkedIn Connect with Chandana Fitzgerald, MD: Twitter | LinkedIn Connect with YourCoach.health: Website | Twitter Check out Shot of Digital Health with Eugene and Jim Joyce: Website | Podcast App HealthXL: Website | Twitter | Join an Event Digital Therapeutics Podcast would not be possible without the support of leading DTx organizations. Thank you to: > Presenting Partner: Amalgam Rx > Contributing Partners and Sponsors: Akili | Bayer G4A | Lindus Health Follow Digital Health Today: Browse Episodes | Twitter | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram Follow Health Podcast Network: Browse Shows | LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
November 21, 2023
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About DTx Podcast with Eugene Borukhovich

Learn about the rapidly evolving field of Digital Therapeutics, its history, the evolving regulatory and reimbursement frameworks, and the trailblazers creating and advancing this industry.

Team

Eugene Borukhovich

Eugene Borukhovich

Eugene is a serial intra and entrepreneur, executive, venture builder, speaker & board advisor with a focus in digital health. Eugene is a Chairman and Founding Board Member at YourCoach Health and founder of Initium Impact Ventures. Prior to YourCoach, Eugene served as a Global Head of Digital Health at Bayer. He has also co-founded and sold a doctor rating startup and a consulting company. Eugene enjoys running, writing, traveling and spending time with his family.
Chandana Fitzgerald, MD, Chief Medical Officer & GM at HealthXL

Chandana Fitzgerald, MD, Chief Medical Officer & GM at HealthXL

Chandana is a medical doctor with work, research and educational experience across European, American and Asian markets. After a stint in clinical practice at hospitals and in primary care, Chandana has engaged in leadership positions in the digital health space to bring innovations that bridge gaps in healthcare, including help build new businesses for digital health start-ups.

She is currently driving global collaborations in digital health and medicine as HealthXL's General Manager & Chief Medical Officer.

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