Virtuoso Surgical Robot Helps Enable Innovative ARPA-H Project on Artificial Intelligence

Virtuoso Surgical, Inc., a Nashville based medical device company, is pleased to announce their role in a landmark, multi-institution award from the federal Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H) program to advance Autonomy at a Less Invasive Scale in Surgery (ALISS) (https://arpa-h.gov/research-and-funding/mission-office-iso/awardees) and enable fully autonomous surgical procedures. The award provides up to $12 million in funding and is being led by Vanderbilt Engineering Professor and Virtuoso Surgical Co-founder and President, Robert J. Webster, III, Ph.D.

The award brings together robotics and artificial intelligence experts from Vanderbilt, Johns Hopkins University, University of Tennessee (Knoxville) and University of Utah. World-renowned expert robotic surgeons from Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) and Johns Hopkins lead clinical development efforts in the project. The award supports placement of the Virtuoso Surgical System at three of the participating research sites, and all artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML)  development will take place using this platform. The project also creates a team of embedded AI/ML experts within Virtuoso Surgical to support the university research teams.

“Fully autonomous surgical robots will transform medicine,” Virtuoso Surgical President Robert Webster said. “Not only will they make routine procedures safer and more affordable, but they will also address the worldwide shortage of surgeons and expand global access to lifesaving surgeries.”

Virtuoso Surgical is a surgical robotics company co-founded by Webster and Duke Herrell, M.D., Professor of Urology and founder of VUMC’s Minimally Invasive Urologic Surgery and Robotics Programs, who now serves as Virtuoso’s CEO. The Virtuoso Surgical System serves as an ideal platform for development of autonomous surgery facilitated by artificial intelligence, machine-learning and computer vision.

The key to the team’s novel approach is demonstration-based learning. “By enabling robots to learn from, and be coached by, human surgeons, we will create brand new machine learning algorithms beyond anything that exists today,”  Webster said. “Surgeons will literally train robots just like they train residents and fellows today. The result will be systems that initially help surgeons be more accurate and efficient, and eventually fully automate surgical procedures.”

By initially having human surgeons teleoperate the Virtuoso Surgical System as the human performs surgery, the robot can “shadow” the human’s decision-making, learning more generalized skills. “Our algorithms are watching the commands the surgeon sends to the robot and what they were looking at through the robot’s camera at the time,” said Alan Kuntz, Ph.D., Assistant Professor at University of Utah, and one of the key leaders of the artificial intelligence algorithm development.

“By looking at the history of those commands, the algorithms can infer how what the surgeons did changed based on what they saw. The robot can then apply these learned strategies to new surgical decisions that it hasn’t encountered before. We will further enable the robot to understand its own uncertainty, knowing what it doesn’t know,” Kuntz elaborates, “so that it can ask a human surgeon for input, clarification or to take over when it is unsure of how to proceed. That’s a key building block for robust autonomy.”

Within the next three years, the research team plans to demonstrate a robotic surgical device capable of removing tumors from the trachea and prostate without the direct intervention of a surgeon. These will initially be demonstrated in simulated conditions and not on live patients. The team also foresees this research having future application to uterine fibroids, bladder tumors, spine procedures and brain cysts, among other clinical applications in the future.

“Creating a system that can learn from human surgeons — and continue to improve performance — will be a game changer,” Duke Herrell said. “Our vision is not to replace surgeons, but to vastly expand the work they do to improve patients’ lives and long-term health outcomes.”

The team includes advanced robotics, imaging and artificial intelligence researchers from many of the top surgical robotics and computer science labs in the U.S. with 14 PhDs, 22 post graduate researchers and 5 leading surgeon scientists forming the research team.

About Virtuoso Surgical

Virtuoso Surgical has developed a groundbreaking robotic surgery system that radically improves minimally invasive endoscopic surgery. The Virtuoso Surgical system features a pair of instrument delivery arms made of concentric nitinol tubes that mimic a surgeon’s hand motions to offer unprecedented control and dexterity to a full range of endoscopic applications. The system uses patented technology developed by Virtuoso’s founders at Johns Hopkins University and Vanderbilt University with funding from the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health. For additional information about Virtuoso Surgical, visit www.virtuososurgical.net. This device has not been approved by the FDA and is not for sale in the United States.

Cohen Veterans Network Partners with Artificial Intelligence Company Raiven Healthcare to Serve Veterans and their Families

The Cohen Veterans Network (CVN), a national nonprofit clinically integrated mental health system for post-9/11 veterans and their families, today announced its partnership with artificial intelligence (AI) company Raiven Healthcare. The Raiven AI Engine helps healthcare providers to determine in real-time the clinical treatment path that delivers the best outcome at the optimum cost for a specific patient.

“We are pleased to work with Raiven Healthcare to support our mission of improving the quality of life for post-9/11 veterans and their families by focusing on improving mental health outcomes,” said CVN President and CEO Dr. Anthony Hassan. “As a first step in our partnership, Raiven is assisting us in building a data warehouse which will be beneficial in identifying opportunities to improve and optimize care to meet the needs of post-9/11 veterans and their families.”

The rapidly growing Cohen Veterans Network launched in 2016, opening clinics in New York City, San Antonio, Dallas, Los Angeles and Philadelphia. The network has recently expanded to Fayetteville, North Carolina; El Paso, Texas; and Washington D.C. At least three additional clinic openings are planned by early 2018: Denver; Killeen, Texas; and Clarksville, Tennessee.

“We are honored to serve a truly forward thinking organization like the Cohen Veterans Network and such a deserving group as our country’s veterans and their families,” stated Jim Stefansic, PhD, MBA, President and CEO of Raiven. “Raiven is excited to leverage its expertise in data warehouses, predictive analytics and artificial intelligence to positively impact the lives of veterans and their families.”

The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinics treat a variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, adjustment issues, anger, grief and loss, family issues, transition challenges, relationship problems and children’s behavioral problems. Support and referrals are offered for related needs such as unemployment, housing, finance and education. The high-quality care is confidential, accessible and provided at no or low-cost to the military families.

Individuals eligible for CVN care are post-9/11 veterans who served in the United States Armed Services, including the National Guard and Reserves, regardless of role while in uniform, discharge status or combat experience. Importantly, services extend to family members, including parents, siblings, spouses or partners, children and caretakers. More than 40% of CVN’s clients are non-veteran family members.
Raiven’s Chief Scientific Officer, Casey Bennett, PhD, a leading international expert on the use of artificial intelligence and predictive analytics in healthcare, is a featured speaker at the Cohen Veterans Care Summit on September 27 and 28, 2017 in Washington, D.C. The summit is the nation’s preeminent convening event for private and public sector leadership to gather and advance the Veterans Mental Health research agenda and clinical care delivery model. More information can be found at www.cohencaresummit.org.

About The Cohen Veterans Network
The Cohen Veterans Network is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit foundation whose mission is to improve the quality of life for post-9/11 veterans and their families by focusing on improving mental health outcomes. The goal of the Cohen Veterans Network is to build a network of free or low-cost outpatient mental health clinics for veterans and their families in high-need communities, in which trained clinicians deliver holistic evidence-based care to treat mental health conditions. Learn more about the Cohen Veterans Network at www.cohenveteransnetwork.org.
 
About Raiven Healthcare
Providers use the Raiven Healthcare real-time, predictive analytics platform for complex health treatments, accessing the artificial intelligence (AI) tools to help determine the clinical treatment path that will deliver the best outcome at the optimum cost for a specific patient. The company’s groundbreaking technology has increased outcomes by 40% while decreasing cost by 60%. Raiven’s solutions are ideal for those engaged in risk-based contracts, including accountable care organizations (ACOs) and providers in gainsharing agreements that require advanced algorithms to deliver actionable results that address specific problems. For more information about Raiven, visit www.raivenhealth.com.

Artificial Intelligence Company Unveils New Name – Faros Becomes Raiven Healthcare

Artificial intelligence company Faros Healthcare, based in Nashville, has changed its name to Raiven Healthcare, officials announced today. Healthcare providers use the Raiven real-time, predictive analytics engine for assistance with complex health treatments, accessing the artificial intelligence (AI) tools to determine the clinical treatment path that will deliver the best outcome at the optimum cost for a specific patient. Raiven’s groundbreaking technology has demonstrated improved clinical outcomes by 40% while decreasing costs by 60%.

“Artificial intelligence has the ability to truly transform healthcare organizations and support providers in making optimal treatment decisions for patients,” stated Jim Stefansic, PhD, MBA, President and CEO of Raiven. “The ‘AI’ in Raiven’s name highlights our industry-leading artificial intelligence engine, which is positively impacting the lives of patients as well as offering a tremendous competitive advantage to Raiven’s clients.”

The artificial intelligence and predictive analytics company lists among its clients Centerstone, one of the largest non-profit providers of behavioral healthcare services in the country.

“Although our name is changing, our mission is not,” Stefansic added. “We remain committed to helping healthcare organizations serve their communities by determining the most effective, most economical treatment for patients.”

Stefansic says that the Raiven AI Engine is more needed than ever for those engaged in risk-based contracts, including accountable care organizations (ACOs) and providers in gainsharing agreements that require advanced algorithms to deliver actionable results that address specific problems. In particular, Faros is focused on care beyond the clinic through care coordination and case management, since healthcare organizations must closely monitor and improve health on an ongoing basis for complex conditions such as behavioral health.

To learn more about Raiven, visit the company’s website at www.raivenhealth.com.

About Raiven Healthcare
Providers use the Raiven Healthcare real-time, predictive analytics platform for complex health treatments, accessing the artificial intelligence (AI) tools to help determine the clinical treatment path that will deliver the best outcome at the optimum cost for a specific patient. The company’s groundbreaking technology has improved outcomes by 40% while decreasing cost by 60%. Raiven’s solutions are ideal for those engaged in risk-based contracts, including accountable care organizations (ACOs) and providers in gainsharing agreements that require advanced algorithms to deliver actionable results that address specific problems. For more information about Raiven, visit www.raivenhealth.com.

Faros Healthcare to Provide Artificial Intelligence Tools to Behavioral Healthcare Leader Centerstone

Faros Healthcare, a provider of artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics solutions, today announced the addition of Centerstone, one of the nation’s largest nonprofit providers of behavioral healthcare, to the company’s growing customer base. Providers use the Faros real-time, predictive analytics platform for complex health treatments, accessing the AI tools to help determine the clinical treatment path that will deliver the best outcome at the optimum cost for a specific patient.

“We are honored that our technology is being used by Centerstone Tennessee to direct optimal care to chronically ill patients in the state − those with serious and persistent mental illness,” said Jim Stefansic, PhD, MBA, CEO of Faros. “As a data-driven organization that uses our technology, Centerstone will be well-prepared to thrive in the state’s behavioral health program known as Tennessee Health Link and other value-based reimbursement programs that will be prevalent in Tennessee.”

As one of the nation’s largest providers of behavioral healthcare, Centerstone offers a full range of mental health services, substance use treatment and intellectual and developmental disabilities services in Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky and Tennessee. Faros will be working with Centerstone Tennessee to assist with treatment of patients enrolled in TennCare, the state’s Medicaid program.

“As the State of Tennessee continues to advance value-based care, we are excited to use Faros’ technology to inform the best treatment options for the optimal clinical outcome and cost,” said Robert N. Vero, EdD, CEO, Centerstone Tennessee. “The Faros artificial intelligence platform complements the clinical judgement of our staff by helping to guide the right treatment for each specific patient.”

The Faros technology is ideal for those engaged in risk-based contracts, including accountable care organizations (ACOs) and providers in gainsharing agreements that require advanced algorithms to deliver actionable results that address specific problems. In particular, Faros is focused on care beyond the clinic through care coordination and case management, since healthcare organizations must closely monitor and improve health on an ongoing basis for complex conditions such as behavioral health.

About Faros Healthcare
Providers use the Faros Healthcare real-time, predictive analytics platform for complex health treatments, accessing the artificial intelligence (AI) tools to help determine the clinical treatment path that will deliver the best outcome at the optimum cost for a specific patient. The company’s groundbreaking technology has increased outcomes by 40% while decreasing cost by 40%. Faros’ solutions are ideal for those engaged in risk-based contracts, including accountable care organizations (ACOs) and providers in gainsharing agreements that require advanced algorithms to deliver actionable results that address specific problems. For more information about Faros, visit www.farosheath.com.

About Centerstone
Centerstone is a national, private, not-for-profit 501(c)(3) healthcare organization. It provides a comprehensive scope of behavioral health services to people and communities in Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky and Tennessee. Additionally, it offers specialized life skills development, employment and housing services for adults in southern Illinois with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The organization offers a range of services and supports nationwide to service members, veterans and their loved ones, helping them to lead healthy and fulfilling lives beyond military service. Centerstone also operates the Centerstone Foundation, Centerstone Research Institute, Advantage Behavioral Health, Centerstone Military Services and Centerstone Health Partners. For more information about Centerstone, please call 888-291-4357 or visit www.centerstone.org.

Artificial Intelligence Leader Faros Healthcare Names David E. Young Chairman of the Board

Faros Healthcare, a rapidly growing provider of artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics solutions, today announced that it has named healthcare thought leader David E. Young, MBA, as Chairman of the Board. Healthcare providers use the Faros real-time, predictive analytics platform for complex health treatments, accessing the AI tools to help determine the clinical treatment path that will deliver the best outcome at the optimum cost for a specific patient. Faros’ groundbreaking technology has increased outcomes by 40% while decreasing cost by 40%.

“David Young is a proven leader in the use of technology to deliver healthcare in a variety of settings. His expertise and guidance will be invaluable as Faros delivers our solutions to an increasing number of healthcare organizations,” said Jim Stefansic, PhD, MBA, President and Chief Executive Officer of Faros.

A seasoned healthcare leader, entrepreneur and educator, Mr. Young has more than three decades of experience in large and small organizations, as well as in developing many startup companies. His background includes telemedicine initiatives in Autism, child and adolescent behavioral care, as well as the corrections and long-term care fields. Most recently President and Chief Operating Officer of MindCare Solutions, Young has served in roles including CEO of the largest behavioral health authority in the state of Texas and Assistant Professor Health Services Administration at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. Mr. Young received his MBA from the University of Dallas and bachelor’s degree from Samford University.

“I am honored to be elected to Chair the Board of Directors of Faros Healthcare. Faros’ artificial intelligence software brings clear direction to healthcare entities as they seek to contain costs while ensuring quality of care is maintained,” said Young. “I have seen and employed various technologies used in healthcare to improve care, but I am convinced the use of artificial intelligence will create a sea of change in care delivery, and I am delighted to be part of that change.”

Faros’ customers include healthcare providers engaged in risk-based contracts, such as accountable care organizations (ACOs) and providers in gainsharing agreements that require advanced algorithms to deliver actionable results that address specific problems. In particular, Faros is focused on care beyond the clinic through case management, since healthcare organizations must closely monitor and improve health on an ongoing basis for complex conditions such as behavioral health.

About Faros Healthcare
Providers use the Faros Healthcare real-time, predictive analytics platform for complex health treatments, accessing the artificial intelligence (AI) tools to help determine the clinical treatment path that will deliver the best outcome at the optimum cost for a specific patient. The company’s groundbreaking technology has increased outcomes by 40% while decreasing cost by 40%. Faros’ solutions are ideal for those engaged in risk-based contracts, including accountable care organizations (ACOs) and providers in gainsharing agreements that require advanced algorithms to deliver actionable results that address specific problems. For more information about Faros, visit www.farosheath.com.