Ascertain — a healthcare AI company creation platform formed last year by Northwell Health and Aegis Ventures — has launched its first startup. New York-based Optain, which has gained an initial seed investment of $12 million, is an AI company meant to enable earlier disease detection and prevention through retinal imaging.

The financial outlook for the digital health sector is less than ideal, characterized by lower funding amounts, shrinking valuations, dwindling profitability and the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank. During a recent conference panel, four healthcare VCs discussed their reactions to this. They explained why the market has switched its focus from growth to value, as well gave advice to startups about what they need to know in this changing environment.

Aegis Ventures launched a new startup with Northwell Holdings, the venture capital arm of Northwell Health. The New York City-based company, named Upliv, focuses on virtual menopause care. It will partner with employers to provide its services to their employees at no cost.