Crucial Business Model Elements for Medical Device Startup Companies in Emerging Markets

Medical devices that suit the needs and challenges of low- and middle-income countries are desperately needed. To provide sustainable access to such devices, business approaches must be developed to meet the demands of individual economic, healthcare, and innovation ecosystems. Currently, there is a gap in the literature regarding business models for medical devices in low- and middle-income countries. A multimodal approach using literature review and key informant interviews was performed to determine critical components of business models for medical device organizations operating in LMICs, specifically focusing on models in emerging markets. The search resulted in 4,674 articles, of which 31 were determined to be relevant and were reviewed. Additional sources included 1 government website, 5 nongovernmental organization websites, 2 private enterprises, and 6 publicly available, non-peer reviewed websites and 1 video. From these sources, four major criteria were found to be necessary for successful development of medical device business models in emerging markets: value proposition, partnerships, strategic pricing, and funding models. Innovators must custom tailor their business model when implementing these elements to the regulatory, cultural, and economic landscapes of each setting. This will improve access to safer, affordable medical care and successfully bring innovative technologies to emerging markets.