Health Hero Network

In 1992, long before the digital health boom, Health Hero Network was founded with a forward-thinking mission: remote patient monitoring. The company developed a technology platform centered around the Health Buddy, a simple appliance for patients at home. This device allowed them to communicate with caregivers, answer daily questions about their symptoms, and learn about their chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes. The system was designed to help providers manage patient populations effectively by triaging data and identifying who needed intervention most. This approach aimed to improve care while reducing healthcare spending. The company secured patents and raised capital, including a significant $16 million Series B round in 2006, to expand its technology that served hospitals, health plans, and pharmaceutical companies. A major turning point came in late 2007 when the German industrial giant Bosch acquired Health Hero Network. The acquisition was a strategic move for Bosch to grow its telehealth portfolio and expand the Health Buddy's reach into European markets. While terms were not disclosed, the deal marked a significant exit for the Palo Alto-based innovator, integrating its remote monitoring technology into a global technology powerhouse.