In recent years, technology has played a crucial role in revolutionizing the healthcare industry. From virtual doctor consultations to health tracking apps, advancements in health tech have made it easier for individuals to access and manage their health. In this edition of STAT Health Tech, we bring you the latest updates on fundraises by Talkiatry and Big Health, as well as the accuracy of Apple Watch’s hypertension feature.
Let’s start with Talkiatry, a mental health startup that has recently raised $20 million in a Series A funding round. The New York-based company offers virtual psychiatric consultations and therapy sessions, making mental health services more accessible and affordable for individuals. With the ongoing pandemic and its impact on mental health, Talkiatry’s services have become increasingly important. The company plans to use the funds to expand its team, enhance its technology, and reach more patients.
Leveraging technology to improve mental health is also the focus of Big Health, a digital therapeutics company that has raised $39 million in a Series B funding round. The UK-based company offers evidence-based digital programs for common mental health conditions such as insomnia, anxiety, and depression. Its flagship product, Sleepio, is a clinically proven digital sleep improvement program that uses cognitive behavioral therapy techniques. With the funds, Big Health plans to continue its research and development efforts and expand its reach globally.
Moving on to the accuracy of health tech, the Apple Watch has been making headlines for its ability to detect hypertension with its blood pressure monitoring feature. Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a common and dangerous condition that can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. With the increasing popularity of wearable health devices, the accuracy of their measurements has been a topic of concern. So, is the Apple Watch’s hypertension feature accurate?
A recent study published in the American Journal of Hypertension found that the Apple Watch’s blood pressure monitoring feature had an accuracy rate of 83%. While this may seem impressive, it falls short of the FDA’s standards for blood pressure monitoring devices, which require a minimum accuracy of 85%. The study also noted that the accuracy varied depending on the individual’s blood pressure levels, with higher accuracy for those with hypertension. However, for those with normal blood pressure, the accuracy was significantly lower.
Despite these findings, the study also highlighted the potential of wearable health devices in monitoring and managing hypertension. It noted that while the current technology may not be accurate enough for diagnosis, it can still serve as a valuable tool for tracking blood pressure levels and detecting any changes. This can be especially useful for individuals who have been diagnosed with hypertension and need to monitor their blood pressure regularly.
Apple has acknowledged the study’s findings and stated that the Apple Watch’s blood pressure monitoring feature is not intended for medical use. Instead, it is meant to provide users with an overall picture of their health and encourage them to seek professional medical advice if any abnormalities are detected. The company also stated that it is continuously working on improving the accuracy of its health features.
In conclusion, the latest fundraises by Talkiatry and Big Health highlight the growing importance of mental health and the role of technology in addressing it. With the ongoing pandemic and its impact on mental health, these companies are making it easier for individuals to access much-needed services. As for the Apple Watch’s hypertension feature, while it may not be accurate enough for medical diagnosis, it can still serve as a useful tool for tracking blood pressure levels and promoting overall health. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see more innovative solutions that will further improve healthcare for individuals around the world.
