#499 - Elli Kaplan, CEO & Founder at Neurotrack

Introduction: Elli Kaplan’s Journey to Neurotrack

Elli Kaplan, the CEO and founder of Neurotrack, has always been drawn to solving complex problems. Her career began in government, working at the White House, the State Department, and the Treasury Department during the Asian financial crisis. She later moved into finance and worked in private equity, investing in developing countries. Kaplan's career then took her to the United Nations, where she helped develop the Millennium Development Goals and lead the restructuring of the UN Development Program. However, her personal experience with Alzheimer's disease in her family ultimately led her to the healthcare sector.

Kaplan’s grandparents' struggles with cognitive decline made her realize the challenges in diagnosing Alzheimer's disease and the overwhelming lack of efficient diagnostic tools. This led her to found Neurotrack, a company focused on providing better tools for primary care providers to diagnose and manage Alzheimer's and cognitive decline.

NeuroTrack’s Innovative Approach to Cognitive Health

Neurotrack’s digital cognitive screening tools are a game changer in the realm of Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Developed by neurologists and neuropsychologists, these tools are validated through large-scale studies and published research. The technology allows primary care providers to screen patients for cognitive decline quickly and efficiently using an iPad during annual wellness visits. The screening starts with a simple three-minute test, and for those who are flagged, additional tests are unlocked to measure various cognitive domains like memory and executive function.

Kaplan emphasizes how these digital tools differ from traditional pen-and-paper tests, which are often inaccurate and difficult to administer. With Neurotrack’s technology, patients experience a stress-free testing environment, often comparing it to playing a game, which makes it far more acceptable to patients, especially older adults.

Overcoming Stigma and Addressing Patient Fears

One of the significant challenges in Alzheimer’s care, as Kaplan points out, is overcoming the stigma and fear associated with cognitive testing. Many patients are reluctant to take cognitive tests because they fear a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s. However, Kaplan believes this fear is gradually being addressed, especially as new treatments are becoming available. Early-stage Alzheimer's drugs are showing promise, and lifestyle interventions like diet and exercise can also help improve cognitive health. For patients, knowing early can make a substantial difference, allowing them to take preventive measures and receive treatment.

The Future of Digital Cognitive Health

Looking ahead, Kaplan sees a bright future for digital cognitive health. She believes that with the increasing adoption of digital tools, every person over 65 should receive a cognitive test as part of their annual checkup. The inclusion of Alzheimer’s disease screening in government policies and the expansion of reimbursement codes for Alzheimer’s care signal a positive shift in the healthcare system. Kaplan also highlights the Guide Program, an initiative by CMMI, that focuses on best practices for Alzheimer’s care, creating a path for better care delivery.

Leadership Challenges and Overcoming Market Hesitation

When asked about her biggest leadership challenges, Kaplan mentioned the ongoing stigma around Alzheimer’s disease and the healthcare industry's hesitation in fully embracing early-stage diagnosis and intervention. Despite these challenges, she remains optimistic, especially now that progress is being made both in clinical treatments and reimbursement for services.

Kaplan's vision for the future is a world where cognitive decline is managed with the same seriousness and urgency as other chronic diseases, with accessible tools, early intervention, and effective treatment options.

Conclusion

Elli Kaplan’s leadership in the healthcare space, particularly with Neurotrack, is breaking new ground in Alzheimer’s diagnosis and care. Her work is a testament to the power of innovation in solving some of the most challenging healthcare issues. Through Neurotrack, Kaplan is paving the way for a future where cognitive health is prioritized, and effective interventions are within reach for all.