DUOS secures $130 Million to Revolutionize Social Needs Navigation for Health Plans
minneapolis, MN – October 10, 2025 – DUOS, a leading technology-enabled service provider, has announced a $130 million strategic growth investment led by FTV Capital, with participation from Forerunner Ventures. This significant funding round, bringing the company’s total raised capital to $163 million, will fuel the expansion of DUOS’ platform to a wider network of health plans nationwide and accelerate the progress of its cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities.
Addressing the Critical Gap in Healthcare: Social Determinants of Health
for years, the healthcare industry has recognized the profound impact of social determinants of health (SDOH) – factors like food insecurity, transportation barriers, and housing instability – on patient outcomes. However, effectively connecting individuals with the resources they need to address these challenges has remained a significant hurdle. DUOS is directly tackling this problem, offering a comprehensive solution that bridges the gap between health plans and their members.
DUOS operates as a vital extension of health plans, proactively reaching out to eligible members via their preferred communication channels – text, email, or mail – to inform them of available benefits. The platform then empowers members to easily identify and articulate their most pressing social and care-related needs. Leveraging a robust database and clever algorithms,DUOS connects individuals with relevant,localized resources and providers,ensuring access is tailored to their specific coverage,location,and individual circumstances.
AI-Powered Efficiency and Improved Member Engagement
What sets DUOS apart is its elegant request of AI. the company isn’t simply listing resources; it’s building an intelligent infrastructure that streamlines the entire process.
“Most health tech promises to improve engagement, but DUOS actually proves it, with real completion rates and measurable impact,” notes Alex Mason, partner at FTV capital. “At FTV, we’ve spent decades investing in healthcare innovation, and DUOS stands out for leveraging AI to build the critical infrastructure health plans need to operate efficiently and improve member outcomes at scale.”
According to Karl Ulfers, CEO and co-founder of DUOS, the new funding will be strategically allocated to further enhance the platform’s AI-driven capabilities. key areas of development include:
* Agentic AI for Automated Navigation: Expanding the use of AI to automate the complex process of navigating government programs, benefits enrollment, and appointment scheduling for preventative care.
* Predictive Modeling: Developing advanced machine learning (ML) models to proactively identify patients who woudl benefit from income-based programs, clinical care coordination, and improved access to quality care.
* Streamlined Access During a Time of Change: Positioning DUOS as a crucial resource for members navigating the evolving landscape of Medicare Advantage, prescription drug plans, and Medicaid, particularly in light of recent and anticipated budget adjustments. Ulfers previously emphasized to MedCity News the company’s commitment to providing “a voice of simplicity and access” during a period of potential confusion for older adults.
Strategic leadership and Expansion Plans
To support this enterprising growth trajectory,DUOS has promoted Jenn Kerfoot to President of Market Operations. Kerfoot, formerly the Chief Strategy and Growth Officer, will spearhead commercial success and solidify DUOS’ position as the essential operating layer for health plans seeking to drive both member engagement and measurable performance improvements through AI.
The company’s expansion strategy focuses on integrating with a diverse range of health plans, including Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, and Affordable Care Act marketplace plans. This broad reach will enable DUOS to impact the lives of millions, ensuring equitable access to vital resources and ultimately improving health outcomes.
Competitive Landscape
While DUOS is a frontrunner in this rapidly evolving space, other companies are also working to address SDOH. Key competitors include mPulse and Cleo, each offering unique approaches to connecting individuals with needed resources. Though, DUOS’ commitment to AI-driven automation and its focus on becoming an integrated operating layer for health plans position it for continued success.
Looking Ahead
DUOS’ $130 million funding round represents a significant vote of confidence in its innovative approach to addressing social determinants of health.As health plans increasingly prioritize member engagement and value-based care, DUOS is poised to become an indispensable partner, driving positive change and improving the well-being of communities across the contry.
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