| Name of Transformer |
| Gloria Lau |
| Context of Transformer |
| Gloria is the Founder and CEO of Alpha Medical |
| Why are transformations important? |
| I think about transformation beyond “baby steps”. For me, it’s putting in the work to define a new industry category. My industry is healthcare, and in a climate today where many patients are un- or under-insured, transformation at scale is necessary for people to access basic care. At Alpha Medical, our entire business is modeled around this central industry transformation. Instead of requiring multiple, time consuming medical office visits, we provide patients with careful online screenings within 24 hours, and ship prescription medications they need straight to their doorsteps. Shepherding change with one business model (in any industry) can create layers of transformation – from systemic cost savings to overall changes in consumer behavior patterns. |
| How can you make transformations a success? |
| The primary way we can make a complete, successful transformation is by leveraging technology. At Alpha, we adopt new tech tools from electronic health record integrations to smart online forms and photo submissions to achieve a higher quality level of care. When both the business and the patient base are willing to adopt new technology, fast medical intake processes and 24/7 service become possible, catalyzing transformation. This holds true in so many industries – utilizing new technology, which can be intimidating and/or a major departure from what’s “been done” before, is key. |
| What advice would you give to someone embarking upon a transformation? |
| By definition, category development is extremely difficult. Transformation takes determination, and a willingness to push through the inevitable roadblocks and hesitation from stakeholders along the way. Transformation is never trivial, especially where health is concerned, and it involves building out effective teams and new business infrastructure. The best advice I can give is to stick with it, see it through, and rely on sheer grit when the going gets tough. |
