AIA, Konica Minolta call out to startups to develop integrated healthcare delivery

INSURER AIA Group Limited and digital imaging, printing and medical diagnostics group, Konica Minolta Inc, on Tuesday jointly launched a 12-week programme here to support entrepreneurs and businesses in developing an integrated healthcare delivery system in Singapore.

Called the "AIA - Konica Minolta Digital Health Accelerator", the programme will be run by Nest, an investment incubator that has successfully worked with large corporations to operate customised accelerator programmes.

Startups with innovative ideas and technology around digital healthcare are invited to apply for the programme. Participating startups will be able to take advantage of the vast access to resources, expertise, markets and mentor networks.

Up to 10 companies will be guided through their business growth and development plans, and they will demonstrate in Singapore their progress and seek investor support in June 2016.

Applications will be accepted between Dec 1 and Jan 31. The programme will start on Feb 22 next year.

Said Patrick Teow, AIA Singapore's CEO: "This launch is yet another extension of AIA's strong belief in the power of Collaborative Innovation to help manage healthcare costs in Singapore and create value for families here. The protection gap in Singapore is estimated to be US$305 billion, and healthcare spending is expected to increase with government health spending expected to increase to S$12 billion annually by 2020."

The move comes on the back of the government's push towards a Smart Nation and using digital means to improve healthcare services and outcomes.