ADVOCA software allows patients to learn about their upcoming medical and surgical procedures by viewing an animated program that provides current medical information and checks their comprehension with interactive questions. The software was developed by Grand Rapids-based INFORMD, with assistance from the West Michigan Science and Technology Initiative at Grand Valley State University.
Test results are printed for the physician to personalize discussions and plans with each patient. This system streamlines the informed consent process, may reduce liability and significantly increases the quality of patient care.
"Patients learn about the benefits, risks, alternatives and procedural steps in a non-threatening way so that they can make the best and most informed decision whether or not they want to undergo the procedure," said INFORMD founder and CEO, Dr. Richard Towbin. "It is exciting to see our idea of animated informed consent come to life."
The company launched ADVOCA in the offices of Dr. David Moore, of Plastic Surgery Associates, PC, Grand Rapids.
"We are very pleased with the acceptance of ADVOCA. More than 87 percent of patients prefer our system with their physician compared to traditional informed consent," INFORMD founder and president Ian Fellows said.
With the support of the West Michigan Science and Technology Initiative (WMSTI), INFORMD uses a combination of technologies to bridge patient education, communication and the increasingly complex legal and administrative challenges facing health care providers and insurance companies. WMSTI provides facilities for product development, access to clinicians, university resources and assists with introductions to investors.
The West Michigan Science and Technology Initiative is a life sciences business incubator and research center dedicated to growing and diversifying the region's economy by creating an environment that inspires innovation and supports the commercialization of science and technology. WMSTI provides commercialization and new business development services to establish a seamless collaborative network of researchers, entrepreneurs, business service providers, and capital.
WMSTI is one of 11 SmartZones created by the Michigan Economic Development Corp. in 2001 as part of an effort to promote and attract high technology business development in the state. Grand Valley was the only university in the state to be granted two SmartZones -- one in Grand Rapids and one in Muskegon.
Contact: Patricia Mathews, (616) 638-8553
