White Pine Systems preps for big expansion in 2010

White Pine Systems spent 2009 biding its time, building its product and preparing for a big year. The Ann Arbor-based firm’s CEO thinks that year could be 2010, a year that could enable his start-up to double its staff. “We’re starting to see an increase [in business],” says Doug Dormer, president and CEO of White Pine Systems. “We’ve seen one through the first quarter. We saw interest but hesitation in late 2009.”The company gives its customers access to their medical records, allowing them to become more knowledgeable about their conditions so they can work with their doctors more effectively. The idea is to help patients get a better picture of their health, thus eliminating unnecessary medical procedures and ensuring they get the right treatment.This goes beyond people struggling with chronic illnesses who regularly visit hospitals. White Pine Systems works with all sorts of organizations, like long-distance race organizers, who may need to provide first responders with important medical information if a situation were to arise during a marathon.The medical records company is looking to capitalize on that bump in business by releasing SPINNphr Basic, a low cost re-packaging of its SPINN personal health record (PHR) solution intended for smaller physician’s practices and clinics. American Specialty Health and its 15 million patients already use the standard version.That has allowed White Pine Systems to maintain its staff of 10 employees and a couple of independent contractors. The firm is looking at starting an internship program this summer. It does hope to double its employee base within the next year as it capitalizes on the expected increase in business.”The evidence it right in front of us,” Dormer says. Source: Doug Dormer, president of White Pine Systems Writer: Jon Zemke