#USA #Valencia #PoNS System #Bioness #Antonella Favit

Bioness Medical Welcomes Dr. Antonella Favit-Van Pelt as CMO

Bioness Medical, Inc., a prominent player in the realm of functional electrical stimulation (FES) and advanced rehabilitation technologies, has announced the appointment of Dr. Antonella Favit-Van Pelt, M.D., Ph.D., as Chief Medical Officer. With an impressive credentials profile that features board certification as a neurologist and a Ph.D. in pharmacology, Dr. Favit-Van Pelt brings over 20 years of critical experience spanning both pharmaceutical industry and academic landscapes.

Dr. Favit-Van Pelt transitions to Bioness from her previous role as the Chief Medical Officer at Helius Medical Inc., where she played a pivotal role in the development and commercialization strategy of the Portable Neuromodulation Stimulator® (PoNS). Her contributions at Helius were instrumental in leading the development programs for PoNS—culminating in the 510(k) submission for chronic stroke use. Moreover, her advocacy for reimbursement strategies became a significant factor in securing Medicare coverage for the PoNS system.

“Dr. Favit-Van Pelt offers a remarkable blend of scientific acumen, regulatory experience, and a heartfelt commitment to enhancing the lives of patients grappling with mobility challenges,” remarked Todd Cushman, President and CEO at Bioness Medical. He further emphasizes the importance of her joining at a critical juncture in the organization's growth trajectory. “I’m eager to see the positive influence she will have on our patients and our company.”

Equipped with a profound understanding of the PoNS clinical data and its regulatory history, Dr. Favit-Van Pelt's role will encompass supporting several strategic initiatives that Bioness is keen to undertake. This includes pushing forward with future developmental and regulatory endeavors, as well as expanding reimbursement initiatives that will enhance access to the company's product offerings for those facing motor function challenges—a testament to why she is deemed an extraordinary fit for Bioness.

“As a neurologist who has spent decades observing the transformative effects of Bioness technology on individuals suffering from functional mobility issues, I’m excited to contribute my expertise to such a meaningful cause,” Dr. Favit-Van Pelt shared. Her focus will extend not only to broadening the therapeutic applications of Bioness technologies but also engaging with payers to guarantee increased access to these rehabilitative therapies for all individuals with mobility impairments.

Understanding PoNS and its Significance in Rehabilitation

The PoNS® device is a non-invasive medical product that offers gentle neurostimulation via a mouthpiece that is applied orally. It works in conjunction with a physical rehabilitation program that patients can conduct at home. By addressing branches of the trigeminal and facial cranial nerves, PoNS effectively stimulates direct pathways to the brainstem. This activation encourages neuroplasticity that aids in developing new neural connections, which are vital in compensating for compromised corticospinal pathways, ultimately leading to substantial improvements in walking abilities.

In the United States, the PoNS device is specifically indicated for short-term treatment for gait deficits resulting from mild-to-moderate symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Importantly, it is intended to be used as an adjunct to supervised therapeutic exercise programs for patients over 22 years of age, and it is available strictly via prescription.

Bioness Medical: A Leader in Rehabilitation Innovations

Bioness Medical stands at the forefront of delivering innovative rehabilitation solutions aimed at restoring mobility, functionality, and independence among patients. Their extensive portfolio not only encompasses functional electrical stimulation but also includes robotic gait training and neuromodulation technologies. Bioness is dedicated to providing healthcare professionals and systems worldwide with evidence-based solutions designed to enhance patient outcomes. As Dr. Favit-Van Pelt steps into her role, the organization is poised for an exciting chapter of growth and innovation that promises to benefit countless individuals living with mobility impairments.