Sidekick Health today announced a collaboration on an integrated digital therapeutics solution in conjunction with Eli Lilly (NYSE:LLY).
The collaboration between the companies will mark the first phase of a relationship between Sidekick and Lilly, which starts with a digital therapeutic offering for patients battling breast cancer.
According to a news release, the first phase will consist of the integrated digital therapeutic offering rollout in Germany. Reykjavik, Iceland-based Sidekick said the further expansion of its portfolio of digital therapeutics into the treatment of breast cancer will be tailored to support the needs of patients within Lilly’s oncology treatment programs.
“We are extremely excited to be announcing our collaboration with Lilly,” Sidekick CEO and co-founder Dr. Tryggvi Thorgeirsson said in the release. “Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide and is sadly a disease that will likely affect everyone’s lives at some point, whether directly or indirectly. Breast cancer is one of its most prevalent forms. At Sidekick, it is our goal to empower patients to take real steps toward better managing their disease and alleviating the negative side effects of treatment. Cancer treatment often leaves patients physically and emotionally drained and, as a result, we are making it as easy and convenient as possible to access life-saving guidance by bringing healthcare into people’s homes.”
Sidekick’s platform will give patients access to a tailored digital treatment plan that engages in health-improving tasks, which promote behavior modification and overcome barriers to change. The solution focuses on physical activity, tailored diet, sleep, stress management and medication adherence.
Patients will also be given access to educational content that has been created in close collaboration with clinical experts and patient advocacy groups, helping to provide unique insights into living with cancer.
The launch in Germany is scheduled for July of 2022, with next steps for the collaboration being considered, including forays into other international markets.
“Breast cancer takes a toll on an individual’s physical and mental health, making support of both extremely important during the treatment journey,” Eli Lilly Chief Digital Officer Rich Carter said. “This collaboration combines Lilly’s expertise in digital health and medicine development with Sidekick’s deep knowledge in behavioral research and digital therapeutics to work towards better outcomes for people with breast cancer. This platform will allow us to extend the reach of our digital solutions and bring on-demand and in-the-home solutions to patients when and where they need them most.”
Sidekick Health was recognized as one of 50 startup companies selected by MedTech Innovator for its flagship four-month showcase and accelerator program in 2020. MedTech Innovator recently announced the 50 companies selected to its cohort for 2022.