Get All Access for $5/mo

How His Personal Battle With Cancer Inspired This Founder's Solution for Patient Care On this episode of "The Founder CEO," Michael O'Neil, founder and CEO of Get Well, discusses his inspiring journey as a leader and the transformative role of AI in healthcare.

By Christopher Salvi Edited by Dan Bova

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

For this compelling episode of "The Founder CEO," I had the privilege of interviewing Michael O'Neil, founder and CEO of Get Well. Michael shared the extraordinary inception story of the company, born out of his personal battle with cancer. We delved into his evolution as a business leader, his work with mission-driven investors, and the transformative role of AI in personalized healthcare. Michael's insights on navigating the complexities of the healthcare system and the profound impact of patient engagement technology are truly inspiring. Don't miss this dynamic conversation that highlights the future of healthcare.

Watch the full Founder CEO video interview here and see the takeaways below.

1. Inception and Evolution of Get Well

  • Personal Cancer Battle: Michael O'Neil's diagnosis with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma during his JD MBA at Georgetown.
  • Idea Conception: The concept for Get Well was sketched on a napkin while hospitalized.
  • Initial Challenges: Limited early funding, with only $1 million raised to last four years for a small team.
  • Growth Journey: Transitioned from surviving on instinct and passion to incorporating data-driven decision-making.
  • Investor Relations: Raised venture capital, went through multiple recapitalizations and dealt with investor expectations and pressures.

2. Healthcare System Challenges and Innovations

  • Misaligned Incentives: Financial models in healthcare often lead to inadequate service for lower reimbursable patients.
  • Equity in Healthcare: Addressing disparities, such as higher mortality rates among black women, through targeted programs and patient engagement tools.
  • Role of AI: Use of AI for precision medicine and engagement, personalizing treatment plans, and improving patient adherence.
  • Patient Engagement: Get Well's tools enhance patient care by providing personalized, digital-first experiences and supporting care teams' efficiency.

3. Leadership and Organizational Growth

  • Leadership Evolution: Michael's growth from a passionate founder to a data-driven CEO, balancing innovation and commercialization.
  • Talent Management: Recognizing the need to evolve the team as the company grows, anticipating strategic and talent needs.
  • Cultural Values: Emphasis on rooting for each other, sharing openly, striving for world-class standards, and valuing diversity.
  • Staying True to Mission: Maintaining focus on the core mission of helping people take an active role in their health journey despite changing investor landscapes and business pressures.
Christopher Salvi

Entrepreneur Leadership Network® VIP

CEO of Salvi

Christopher Salvi is CEO of Salvi Media, an executive branding and content agency. He advises high-performing clients on building trust, executive branding and leading teams to execute at the highest level. He is executive producer of The CEO Series, facilitating guests and partnerships.

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Editor's Pick

Leadership

Visionaries or Vague Promises? Why Companies Fail Without Leaders Who See Beyond the Bottom Line

Visionary leaders turn bold ideas into lasting impact by building resilience, clarity and future-ready teams.

Marketing

5 Critical Mistakes to Avoid When Giving a Presentation

Are you tired of enduring dull presentations? Over the years, I have compiled a list of common presentation mistakes and how to avoid them. Here are my top five tips.

Science & Technology

5 Automation Strategies Every Small Business Should Follow

It's time we make IT automation work for us: streamline processes, boost efficiency and drive growth with the right tools and strategy.

Business News

Former Steve Jobs Intern Says This Is How He Would Have Approached AI

The former intern is now the CEO of AI and data company DataStax.

Side Hustle

'Hustling Every Day': These Friends Started a Side Hustle With $2,500 Each — It 'Snowballed' to Over $500,000 and Became a Multimillion-Dollar Brand

Paris Emily Nicholson and Saskia Teje Jenkins had a 2020 brainstorm session that led to a lucrative business.

Green Entrepreneur®

How Global Business Leaders Can Build a Sustainable Supply Chain

Businesses can build sustainable supply chains by leveraging technology to reduce environmental impact, optimize resources and track emissions while balancing operational efficiency and sustainability goals.