Neko Health, a Swedish body scanning company backed by Spotify co-founder David Ek, has officially entered the United States market with a new clinic in New York. The startup has raised nearly $1 billion in total funding and currently maintains a global waitlist exceeding 300,000 individuals.
The company’s technology utilizes advanced sensors and computer vision to screen for health issues related to blood, skin, and metabolism. Farooq Abbasi, a general partner at Preface Ventures and an early investor, views the expansion as a potential solution to the challenges facing American healthcare, particularly regarding low utilization of preventative services due to cost concerns.
Currently, Neko Health charges $500 for a one-hour scan. While the procedure is not covered by insurance, it is eligible for payment through Health Savings Accounts. Abbasi emphasized the need for accessible healthcare, stating, “I think preventative care and healthcare should be cheap and accessible.”
Since Abbasi’s initial scan, the company has significantly expanded its diagnostic capabilities. He noted that early versions tested only 15 biomarkers, whereas recent scans assess 55. He described the technology as a prime example of how artificial intelligence is transforming the medical sector, arguing that Neko provides “actionable insights” rather than serving as merely a wellness trend.
Despite its rapid growth, Neko Health faces hurdles in scaling operations and securing regulatory approval across the U.S. Nevertheless, Abbasi remains optimistic about the company’s future, suggesting that increased venture capital investment could help resolve longstanding systemic issues in American medicine.
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