American Heart Association Honors Two Health Tech Innovators Addressing Addiction and Oxygen Monitoring
The American Heart Association awarded its 2025 Impact with Heart honors to Sober Sidekick and OxiWear, recognizing innovative solutions in addiction recovery and medical monitoring that could help reduce cardiovascular health disparities.
As heart disease remains the leading cause of death both in the U.S. and globally, the American Heart Association (AHA) has recognized two healthcare technology companies for their contributions to improving health outcomes through innovative solutions. During the third annual Impact with Heart celebration in New York City, Sober Sidekick and OxiWear received awards for their groundbreaking work in health technology and community impact.
The recognition comes at a critical time, as the AHA's 2025 Heart Disease & Stroke Statistics report reveals alarming increases in health risk factors contributing to cardiovascular disease, particularly among underrepresented groups. These risk factors include obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
Sober Sidekick, based in Marina Del Ray, California, has developed a digital health platform that uses an 'Empathy Algorithm' to support addiction recovery. The platform has already assisted over 341,000 people in their recovery journey. The company has received equity-based venture capital funding through the AHA's Social Impact Funds.
Arlington, Virginia-based OxiWear earned recognition for its FDA-approved wearable device that provides continuous oxygen monitoring and emergency alerts for individuals with pulmonary conditions. The technology represents a significant advancement in preventive care for at-risk patients.
These innovations are particularly significant as they address critical gaps in healthcare delivery and accessibility. The AHA's support of these ventures through its Social Impact Funds and EmPOWERED to Serve Business Accelerator program demonstrates a strategic shift in how healthcare solutions are being developed and deployed to address health inequities.
The recognition of these companies signals a growing emphasis on technology-driven, community-focused solutions in healthcare, particularly those targeting underserved populations and addressing social determinants of health. This approach could help accelerate the adoption of innovative healthcare solutions and improve health outcomes across diverse communities.