HealthSpot’s Pursuit to Provide Global Healthcare Access Through Telemedicine

Michael Kountze; Ryan Lunsford

doi:10.29086/JISfTeH.7.e19

Michael Kountze University of the Incarnate Word https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4667-5858
Ryan Lunsford University of the Incarnate Word https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4667-5858

DOI: https://doi.org/10.29086/JISfTeH.7.e19

Keywords: telemedicine, kiosks, videoconferencing, venture capital, business strategy, USA

Abstract

HealthSpot Station was a well-received business concept and revolutionary blend of healthcare and technology that minimised cost, hassle, and waiting time to see a doctor. Patients could visit their local pharmacy, enter a private, futuristic-looking, 40 square-foot, blue and white pod, be diagnosed by a doctor via video-conference and receive a prescription all within an average appointment time of 15 minutes. The HealthSpot Station had the potential to provide medicine to the masses, with the kiosks being deployed in developing countries and remote areas of the world. With ‘rave’ reviews from physicians and patients, $54 million in funding from corporations and other influential backers, and a contract with the number three pharmacy chain in the U.S, the HealthSpot Station was destined for success. So why did the company declare Chapter 7 bankruptcy after just five years? Understanding the process and causes provides cautionary insights for innovators within the telemedicine industry, and the lessons learnt may enhance the success of future endeavours. This case study will explore the factors that led to the demise of HealthSpot Inc.

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