The Valais start-up HealthMe Technologies has been creating a stir in recent weeks, not least as it has been selected for the Future of Health Grant programme run by CSS and EPFL. This is an excellent award for the early-stage business, which benefited from support from Switzerland Innovation Park Network West EPFL, Greater Geneva Bern Area (GGBa) and Economic Promotion Valais to set up in Valais. It has developed software which enables patients to better understand and assess information given by medical staff during consultations. Interview with Mohamed Alibashe, CEO of HealthMe Technologies.
Mohamed, you have had another career, as a doctor. What made you move into entrepreneurship and start-ups?
I have always been passionate about research and the discovery of new ways to improve patients’ health and well-being. This is a natural extension of my commitment as a doctor, where the patient is always central to any decision or action. My clinical experience also enabled me to see the challenges and obstacles encountered by patients in today’s healthcare system. Technological development has created many opportunities, and the potential for developing innovative solutions for health also motivated me to make the move.
What was the catalyst for you to set up in Valais?
Valais offers exceptional local expertise in digital health, with a high concentration of entrepreneurs, digital health experts, and research groups specialising in artificial intelligence (AI). This has created a dynamic ecosystem with access to a pool of very highly qualified labour.
What support have you received in developing your business in Valais?
We have had substantial help from The Ark Foundation and its start-up incubator to develop our business in Valais. We benefited from funding, advice and access to a network of experts and partners.
Have you been able to create partnerships with local businesses and what were the benefits of doing so?
Absolutely! We have established partnerships with two local companies: Recapp IT and Tokiwi. Their contribution to our development has been extremely valuable. Their cutting-edge expertise in their respective fields has enabled us to develop our product and overcome the technical challenges we have encountered.
What are the next steps in the development of HealthMe Technologies?
The next important step for our company is to place our new product on the market, using the new distribution channels we have identified and the strategic partnerships we have established. It is also essential for us to pursue the second phase of our technological development, so that we can improve and enrich our offer, remain competitive in this market and, finally, ensure long-term growth for our business.
Further information: HealthMe Technologies