Sharp HealthCare has joined forces with local incubator EvoNexus to assess cutting-edge medical technology emerging from San Diego's startup scene. This collaboration offers Sharp the advantage of an initial look at the most recent technology innovations, while EvoNexus startups benefit from the opportunity to refine their products in conjunction with healthcare professionals.

Rory Moore, CEO and co-founder of EvoNexus, highlighted the rapid advancements in healthcare technology, including sensors, wearables, diagnostics, and artificial intelligence, which hospitals like Sharp struggle to keep up with. EvoNexus, a nonprofit organization, assists Sharp in vetting early-stage technologies that may become viable options in the future.

Since 2010, this nonprofit incubator has supported over 250 startups through mentorship, fundraising, and acquisitions, and has also been instrumental in helping San Diego-based medical technology companies like Carlsmed, known for customized spinal surgery devices.

EvoNexus' incubator offers structured mentorship and local expert guidance to startups. The collaboration with Sharp connects startups with medical professionals and clinicians, providing crucial feedback during growth phases, according to Moore.

Furthermore, Moore emphasized that this partnership expands opportunities for entrepreneurs venturing into the healthcare sector.

Rick LeMoine, M.D., who serves as the Chief Medical Information Officer at Sharp HealthCare, expressed that this collaboration establishes an encouraging pathway for early-stage solutions to reach the hands of medical professionals who will integrate these innovations into their daily practice. Notably, earlier this year, Sharp HealthCare introduced Sharp Ventures, a dedicated investment division committed to participating in cutting-edge technology advancements.

LeMoine explained that Sharp made a deliberate choice to proactively embrace technological advancements, aiming to actively participate in shaping the future of healthcare rather than merely reacting to changes.

As part of its commitment to the healthcare of the future, Sharp has significantly increased its investment efforts. This includes the establishment of the Sharp Prebys Innovation and Education Center, which serves as a hub for research, workforce training, and the development of cutting-edge technologies.

Accessing a real intensive care unit within a hospital is often restricted due to patient privacy and safety concerns. However, as EvoNexus startups continue to evolve, LeMoine noted that the innovation center provides simulated emergency, intensive care, and delivery rooms where proof of concept and pilot projects can be conducted.

While many academic institutions have their own innovation divisions, LeMoine emphasized that the collaboration between the healthcare system and EvoNexus represents a novel offering in San Diego County.