In the ever-evolving landscape of women’s healthcare, a new player has recently emerged with a unique approach to addressing the longstanding gaps in care. Radiant Health Partners, founded by Stanford MBA graduates Sasha Pines and Emily Powers, is setting out to redefine the standard of care for women, particularly those navigating the complexities of menopause.
Both Pines and Powers bring personal motivations to their venture. Pines, growing up in a Middle Eastern family, witnessed firsthand the impact of enforced gender norms and developed a passion for empowering women. Powers, on the other hand, experienced firsthand the frustrations of being “kicked around the healthcare system,” dealing with dismissive doctors and a lack of comprehensive care.
These experiences, combined with their professional backgrounds in healthcare, consulting, and venture capital, led them to a shared mission: to create a healthcare model that truly serves women’s needs. As Pines explains, “The inequities women face in society are reflected in the healthcare system. This new venture is an energizing intersection of personal passion tackling this systemic challenge and a huge market opportunity.”
The Search Fund Model: A Different Approach to Healthcare Entrepreneurship
What sets Radiant Health Partners apart is not just its mission, but its unique capital structure. Unlike many healthcare startups that rely on venture capital funding, Pines and Powers have opted for a less common approach: the search fund model.
Search funds, pioneered in the 1980s, allow entrepreneurs to raise capital to acquire and grow an existing business. This model differs significantly from both traditional venture capital and private equity in several key ways. As Powers explains, “We’re not approaching this with a prescriptive view. Our goal is to find the best doctors delivering the highest quality care, scale that care, and collaboratively shape the future of women’s healthcare.”
The search fund model isn’t pressured to deliver rapid growth or quick exits, allowing for more sustainable, patient-centric growth. The entrepreneurs become deeply involved in the day-to-day operations of the acquired business, rather than just providing capital or managing multiple portfolio companies.
Pines and Powers chose this model for several reasons. The search fund model aligns well with healthcare needs, allowing for a more measured, careful approach to scaling healthcare services, prioritizing quality over rapid growth. It also offers flexibility in approach. As Pines noted, “While our focus is women’s health, we remain open to the specific application. Whether it’s menopause or another need, our direction will be guided by the needs we uncover.”
The model also allows for deep collaboration with healthcare providers, combining clinical expertise with business acumen. Powers emphasizes, “Our commitment is to high-quality, science-based care. We aim to set a new standard in women’s health services.”
The Vision for Radiant Health Partners
While the specifics of their model are still taking shape, Pines and Powers have a clear vision. As Pines articulates, “We’d like to build a comprehensive experience where women receive the highest quality care by leading experts in women’s health, ensuring every woman feels genuinely cared for and championed.”
They’re currently in the process of identifying a physician partner who specializes in menopause care and takes a holistic, patient-centered approach. Powers explains their criteria: “We’re seeking physician partners who are trained in menopause care and can provide comprehensive, personalized treatment. Our goal is to support women throughout their health journey, not just during brief consultations.”
The founders also acknowledge the challenges ahead, including the scarcity of menopause-certified physicians and the fragmented nature of women’s healthcare. However, they see these challenges as opportunities to make a significant impact. As Powers notes, “Women’s healthcare is often segmented, but our vision is to provide holistic care that addresses all aspects of a woman’s health in one place.”
By focusing on evidence-based care, longer appointment times, and ongoing support throughout a woman’s health journey, Radiant Health Partners aims to address the gaps many women experience in their healthcare.
Looking Ahead
While Radiant Health Partners is still in its early stages, its innovative approach to improving women’s healthcare makes it a company to watch. Pines emphasizes their long-term commitment: “We’re entering into long-term partnerships with physicians. This isn’t a short-term venture; we’re committed to sustainable, lasting change in women’s healthcare. Our priority right now is finding the right partners who share our vision for transforming women’s healthcare. Quality and alignment matter more than speed.”
