Waukesha-based worker’s compensation software startup Consumer Health Connections LLC has received a significant investment from San Diego-based Mitchell International Inc., an established industry player.
The companies declined to discuss the terms of the transaction, which closed Sept. 15. Mitchell provides technology, connectivity and information services for property and casualty claims and collision repair.
CHC, founded in 2015, is a Software-as-a-Service firm that offers telemedicine and telepresence (video calling) services to help insurance companies and employers gather statements from injured employees for worker’s compensation claims.
Jill Allen, president and chief executive officer of CHC, had previously raised $3.25 million from about 20 investors over two rounds for the growing company.
“This next round was really critical for me to identify a strategic partner that understood the industry, understood disruptive technology and was fearless at driving it,” Allen said. “We were really grateful, we’ve had several companies that stepped up, expressed interest, and Mitchell has aligned with us. Obviously they’re a very big player and see significant value in what we have.”
Allen has about 27 years of experience in worker’s compensation, in case management, triage and other areas. She said the industry is far behind when it comes to technology and many worker’s compensation injuries are reported well after the fact, so she founded the company to change that. CHC’s cloud-based software allows injured employees to immediately have a virtual appointment with a medical provider, as well as participate in follow-up appointments, tele-rehab and virtual claim reviews.
“This is a big darn deal in the state of Wisconsin to have a company like this,” she said. “If we can improve that intake process and make it seamless, it’s really huge. The days of a telephonic recorded intake are being replaced now with a telepresence intake video.”
CHC has 11 employees who work virtually, serving a global client base of about 20.
“We absolutely will have to ramp up for growth,” Allen said.
“We are excited by the possibility of how Consumer Health Connections’ telemedicine technology could improve the way injured workers receive care,” said Nina Smith, executive vice president and general manager at Mitchell. “Our investment in this company that has the potential to help shape the future of health care in the property and casualty industry aligns with two of Mitchell’s core values – driving technology innovation and connecting our clients to services and partners that further enhance the claims process and improve the overall customer experience.”
