Interview
In conversation with
Saemundur Oddsson
Saemundur Oddsson is building Sidekick Health, a digital therapeutics company delivering evidence-based programs across oncology, cardiovascular, metabolic, inflammatory and other chronic conditions—working with insurers and pharma and active in Germany’s DiGA pathway. A former internist and cardiologist, he brings clinical rigor and behavioral science to product design so engagement, outcomes, and cost efficiency move together.
In God we trust. All others must bring data.
Oddsson’s pivot from clinic to DTx began with a simple observation: advice fails when daily life wins. Behavioral economics and mobile-first design became Sidekick’s differentiator—meeting people where they are, then proving value with outcomes and real-world evidence. The operating model partners with payers and pharma, leverages regulated routes like DiGA, and aligns product teams around adherence, clinical impact, and cost reduction. Policy, he argues, must reward prevention and standardize reimbursement so innovations scale across borders without reinventing themselves market by market.
Lessons from Digital Therapeutics at Scale:
Behavior First, Evidence Always
What we cover
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How Sidekick’s payer–pharma model and DiGA access translate engagement into measurable outcomes
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Why behavioral economics and mobile-first design close the gap between clinical advice and everyday action
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What evidence beyond RCTs—real-world data, digital biomarkers, user metrics—matters for credibility and scale
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Where reimbursement standards and cross-border coordination can unlock prevention and DTx adoption
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Which leadership moves sustain momentum—partnering inside systems, designing for adherence, and measuring what matters
Saemundur “Sam” Oddsson is a physician-turned-digital health entrepreneur and one of two co-founders of Sidekick Health, a rapidly growing digital therapeutics (DTx) company transforming chronic disease management in over a dozen countries. With a background in clinical research, digital innovation, and a medical career in internal medicine and cardiology, he has been at the forefront of healthcare digitization. He leads strategic initiatives that bridge medical expertise and business development, positioning Sidekick as a leading partner in the digital therapeutics space. Backed by a strong publication record and an extensive network of key opinion leaders (KOLs), he champions evidence-based solutions that drive better adherence, improved outcomes, and lasting health impact.
About
Dr. Saemundur “Sam” Oddsson
