Summary:
UPMC Enterprises invests in Optain Health, a startup using AI and robotic imaging for early disease detection.
The $26 million Series A round was led by Insight Partners with participation from multiple health systems.
Optain's technology detects eye diseases like diabetic retinopathy and can assess cardiovascular risks.
Part of the Aegis Digital Consortium, which includes 11 U.S. health systems co-developing AI healthtech.
UPMC's recent opening of the UPMC Mercy Eye Pavilion supports advancements in vision care services.
UPMC Enterprises Invests in Vision Startup Optain Health
UPMC Enterprises, the venture capital arm of the health system giant, has made a strategic investment in Optain Health, a New York-based company leveraging artificial intelligence and robotic retinal imaging for early disease detection. This move is part of a broader $26 million Series A funding round that was oversubscribed and led by Insight Partners, with participation from notable institutions like Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and Northwell Health.
Optain Health was co-created in 2023 by Aegis Ventures, which also established the Aegis Digital Consortium—a collaboration of 11 leading U.S. health systems focused on co-developing AI-driven healthtech companies. UPMC Enterprises joined this consortium last year, strengthening its commitment to innovation in healthcare technology.
The core of Optain's technology is a portable robotic camera that quickly captures retinal images. Integrated AI algorithms analyze these images to detect vision-threatening conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration. Remarkably, the platform can also assess risks for cardiovascular disease, showcasing its potential for broader health applications.
Dr. John Noseworthy, chair of the Aegis Digital Consortium, emphasized the importance of this innovation: "Early retinal screening for diabetic retinopathy and chronic disease closes a critical care gap. By deploying Optain in patient care and investing in the company, consortium members have shown strong confidence in its value for enabling early detection and better outcomes."
In a related development, UPMC opened the UPMC Mercy Eye Pavilion in May 2023, housing the UPMC Vision Institute. This facility offers a wide range of vision-related services, marking a first-of-its-kind center in Western Pennsylvania and underscoring UPMC's dedication to advancing eye care.
This investment highlights the growing trend of healthtech startups using AI to transform diagnostics and improve patient outcomes, with significant backing from major health systems and investors.
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