Bridging gaps to build a more sustainable healthcare system
Healthcare in Japan, especially the caregiving sector, is facing serious challenges due to a rapidly aging population. The growing demand for medical care is outstripping the supply of healthcare workers. In particular, rural areas suffer from a shortage of doctors, raising concerns about growing healthcare disparities.
In line with SOMPO’s Purpose of striving “for a future of health, wellbeing and financial protection,” SOMPO Light Vortex is developing new products and services through digital transformation (DX). A major part of these efforts is the introduction of a diagnostic support kit that allows remote video-based consultations with medical professionals. TytoCare is the first medical equipment service provided by the Sompo Group, and we are excited to be able to bring it to Japan.
What is TytoCare?
TytoCare is a medical device kit equipped with tools for online video consultations, alongside features for remote stethoscope examinations, temperature checks as well as ear, throat, and skin examinations. It supports doctors making informed diagnoses remotely by providing multifaceted data, all from the comfort of the patient’s home.
Overcoming challenges through determination and teamwork
Launching the TytoCare service in the domestic market came with significant challenges. We faced hurdles such as negotiating contracts, obtaining permits and approvals for a medical equipment business, and gathering evidence that would justify its commercialization in Japan by the company.
Fueled by our strong belief in Tytocare’s potential, we listened closely to practitioners in the medical and caregiving fields and built strong relationships with internal and external partners to overcome the challenges. Through a collaboration with a medical institution, we were able to run pilot programs at elderly care facilities which helped demonstrate the value that TytoCare can provide, leading to the eventual full-scale rollout.
For example, when a resident at the elderly care facility wasn’t feeling well, staff were able to use TytoCare to share the data with a doctor to assess whether a hospital visit was necessary. This reduced the burden on both residents and caregivers, creating a more comfortable healthcare and caregiving environment.
The Sompo Group nurtures a culture that supports this kind of bold challenges. Thanks to this spirit, our efforts were recognized with the “SOMPO Value Creation” Category Grand Prize at the SOMPO Awards 2024. Motivated by this success, we will continue delivering the Sompo Group’s unique value to society.
Shaping the future of healthcare through digital innovation
Through TytoCare, we envision a future where telemedicine is a familiar and trusted part of everyday life. We are exploring diverse use cases through test programs, such as mobile telemedicine in partnership with local clinics, implementation in elderly care and childcare facilities, and support for home medical care.
Looking ahead, we plan to expand into parenting support, caregiving, and disaster medical care, with the same aim of creating a society where everyone can access healthcare safely and securely, no matter where they are. Through the combined power of human capabilities and digital technology, we are contributing to a future where health, wellbeing, and financial protection are better assured. We believe in “bringing the human touch to remote care.” This is the future we’re building.
