Shoebox Audiometry: start-ups and innovation in the Canadian medical sector
Start-ups
As part of an article on the Canadian start-up ecosystem, which is a strong support to medical innovations in the country,
the Financial Post has taken a closer look at Clearwater Clinical’s hearing test solution, Shoebox Audiometry.
Shoebox Audiometry is not like conventional hearing tests conducted in sound booths. It is automated and consists of an iPad, headphones and specialized game-play software. According to the manufacturer, its aim is to harnesses the power, convenience, and economics of tablet and cloud technologies. The system makes use of a modified Hughson-Westlake protocol and is clinically validated to produce accurate results.
The results of audiometry testing are saved to a secure web portal, enabling users of the portable solution to easily archive, manage and view audiograms and patient information from a web browser. The monthly fee for hardware, software and cloud-based management services is reported to start at CAD 200.
This is one of the products that Mike Weider, an entrepreneur from Collingwood, ON, has helped bring to market. Since entering the entrepreneurial field, he has sold two start-up companies, is a member of the board for four others, and advises two venture funds, reports The Financial Post. Weider joined forces with Ottawa-based ENT physician Dr. Matt Bromwich, who had invented the mobile product, to help move Shoebox Audiometry into the commercial phase, through large-scale development.
“Our mission is to build a hearing test for everyone on the planet utilizing mobile technology to facilitate that and make it easier, more accessible and more affordable,” says Weider.
Source: The Financial Post – Entrepreneur; Clearwater Clinical – Shoebox.
