Vancouver, B.C. — WelTel Inc. has been named Top Innovator by the Fraser Health Innovation Academy (iCademy) pitch competition.

The event was the culmination of a challenging program created by Fraser Health to foster collaboration with external partners and advance innovative solutions that significantly improve health services in the region.

WelTel was one of 60 B.C. companies that applied in 2019 to be part of the Innovation Academy’s inaugural cohort. Nine were shortlisted to present ideas, and four were selected to participate in the program, which was then interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The pitch competition was finally held June 30, when the judging panel selected WelTel’s proposal for a project aimed at improving engagement and health outcomes for chronic disease patients.

“WelTel is grateful for the opportunity to participate in the Innovation Academy and kudos to Fraser Health for creating such an innovative program,” said Dr. Gabby Serafini, WelTel CEO. “We look forward to working with Fraser Health to deploy WelTel and to extend primary care services and improve the patient journey for people living with chronic illnesses, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and COPD.”

During the six-month project, general practitioners, behavioural health coaches and a clinical psychologist will use WelTel’s SMS texting-based platform to strengthen patient-caregiver relationships, promote positive lifestyle changes and help patients set and track their health goals.

To learn more, visit the WelTel website.