OSF's most impactful innovation projects of 2022

In 2022, OSF Innovation and OSF OnCall, the digital health divisions of Peoria, Ill.-based OSF HealthCare, launched 10 different initiatives using digital technologies and data with the aim of providing more convenient access and improved patient outcomes. 

Here are the health system's 10 most notable projects, according to a Jan. 3 press release from OSF:

1. Digital hospital at home: In 2022, OSF HealthCare began using new care models, including launching a new hospital-at-home program. The health system is looking to expand this program in 2023.
   
   
2. OSF OnCall: Launched under the Medicaid Innovation Collaborative, this remote monitoring program uses telehealth paired with digitally-enabled community health workers and community organizations to create improved access to care.
   
   
3. Artificial intelligence-based diabetic eye exams: OSF Innovation researched and found an artificial intelligence-based platform that helps diagnose retinopathy within minutes. The platform has found 20 percent of OSF primary care patients have some damage to the blood vessels that lead to the retina.
   
   
4. "FlightPath" app: OSF's innovation arm is testing an app that can help diagnose a concussion within minutes by having patients follow a hummingbird in flight and catch it by manipulating the screen and their own body.
   
   
5. Misinformation app: OSF, along with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the U of I College of Medicine in Peoria, are developing an app that alerts healthcare providers about misinformation on social media.
   
   
6. Simulations: OSF Innovation launched simulation training at every one of its hospitals, using manikins that helped identify problems within a pregnancy.
   
   
7. OSF HealthCare and Bradley University partner: OSF and Bradley University, also in Peoria, will work together to create new breakthrough innovations including new medical devices, digital solutions, improved work processes and new service models.
   
   
8. Venture capital investments: OSF Ventures, the venture capital arm of the health system, snagged $100 million in funds.
   
   
9. "Shark tank" studio: OSF created its own ecosystem with a venture startup studio dedicated to innovation ideas that can be vetted, developed and eventually commercialized for use by OSF and other health systems.
   
   
10. Grant program: OSF created a Community Health Advocacy grant program to support research and pilot projects.