#United States #Washington, D.C. #Cala Health #TAPS Therapy #Elizabeth Dole Foundation

Cala Partners with Elizabeth Dole Foundation at 10th Annual Convening

On May 20, 2025, in Washington, D.C., Cala Health, recognized as a leader in bioelectronic medicine, gathered with the Elizabeth Dole Foundation for its 10th Annual Convening. This significant event, themed _A Blueprint for Action: Mapping the Future of Caregiving in a Changing World_, aims to empower military and veteran caregivers who support those who have served the nation.

Cala's participation as a proud sponsor highlights its commitment to raising awareness about the benefits of its innovative Cala TAPS™ Therapy. This therapy is particularly valuable to members of the veteran community who face the daily challenges of essential tasks, including managing hand tremors caused by essential tremor (ET) and Parkinson's disease (PD).

The capabilities of the Cala kIQ™ System—the only FDA-cleared neuromodulation device—were showcased at the event. This wrist-worn device plays a crucial role in alleviating action hand tremors, providing veterans with the independence necessary to engage in everyday activities like eating, writing, and self-care. The therapeutic approach signifies a transition from traditional methods, which often involve medications that can induce adverse side effects such as fatigue and nausea.

Cala Health's Chief Executive Officer, Deanna Harshbarger, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "We are so honored to partner with the Elizabeth Dole Foundation and participate in the 10th Annual Convening." She emphasized the collaborative effort to support veterans, caregivers, families, and survivors. The gathering not only reinforced community connections but also helped highlight the societal need for improved caregiving resources.

In the United States, over 7 million individuals are affected by ET and PD, which lead to challenges in completing daily tasks due to uncontrollable movements. While conventional drug treatments exist, they do not always guarantee desired effects and can lead to unwanted side effects including depression. Additionally, more invasive surgical options, such as Deep Brain Stimulation, introduce risks that many patients may prefer to avoid.

The technology behind the Cala kIQ System employs Transcutaneous Afferent Patterned Stimulation (TAPS) Therapy. It utilizes a unique method of stimulating nerves in the wrist, which communicates with the brain to counteract tremors. Notably, the device is prescribed by doctors and has a robust clinical validation for its efficacy in reducing action hand tremors.

As part of its commitment to the veteran community, Cala Health ensures that the Cala System is accessible at no cost to qualifying members of the Veterans Affairs (VA) Health System and through Medicare for those meeting specific criteria. They continually advocate for expanded coverage to include Medicare Advantage and various commercial payor plans, ensuring more patients can access their groundbreaking technology.

About Cala Health

Cala Health is revolutionizing chronic disease management through its bioelectronic therapies. The San Francisco Bay Area-based company effectively merges neuroscience and technology to offer personalized peripheral nerve stimulation. Their groundbreaking products, the only FDA-cleared noninvasive devices, empower individuals suffering from hand tremors, allowing them to reclaim meaningful moments in their lives.

As Cala Health looks forward, its research and development pipeline includes therapies addressing various conditions beyond neurology, particularly in cardiology and psychiatry. Founded in 2014, the company is committed to reshaping how prescription therapies are delivered and experienced.

The Cala kIQ device is specifically designed to provide temporary relief of hand tremors due to ET and PD, promoting improved daily functioning for those impacted. Importantly, federal regulations dictate that the sale of this device must occur through a physician's order, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care.

For more details on Cala’s offerings and ongoing developments, visit Cala Health's website.