Crowdhelix has introduced the Smart Medtech Helix, a novel coalition aimed at accelerating innovation within the smart medical technology sector. This initiative focuses on uniting a diverse array of professionals, including designers, engineers, researchers, and investors, to enhance the development and application of smart medical devices.
Market Growth and Innovation Drivers
Anticipating a surge in the smart medical devices market, projections suggest a value increase from €51 billion in 2021 to €111 billion by 2026. This significant growth is fueled by a 16.8% annual expansion, highlighting the critical role that smart technology plays in advancing healthcare.
Challenges and Global Healthcare Impact
Despite the potential, the healthcare sector faces hurdles, particularly in limited-resource settings where sophisticated medical solutions are less accessible. Notably, low-income regions, which house a third of the global population, benefit from merely 6% of surgical interventions, underscoring the necessity for affordable and high-quality medical devices.
To address these challenges, the Smart Medtech Helix facilitates interaction and knowledge transfer among its members. This community is granted access to a worldwide network of experts and funding opportunities, enabling collaborative research to push the boundaries of medical innovation.
Michael Browne, Crowdhelix CEO, envisions the Helix as a catalyst for convergence among medical innovators and industry leaders. This convergence is aimed at crafting cost-effective solutions with substantial societal benefits, necessitating cross-disciplinary collaboration beyond traditional medical device development.
The TARA project, anchored by the Smart Medtech Helix, exemplifies the power of multidisciplinary partnerships. Spearheaded by the University of Pisa, this European collaboration aims to devise an innovative, non-surgical treatment for chronic migraine, potentially revolutionizing care in resource-constrained settings by enhancing accessibility and reducing costs.
