Ascent Strategy Group

Ascent Strategy Group is a public relations and communications agency based in Chicago, United States, that focuses exclusively on the healthcare and life sciences sectors. Founded in 2023 by healthtech marketer John Digles, the agency was built to address the unique communications challenges presented by healthcare's ongoing digital transformation. Ascent Strategy Group offers a range of services including corporate communications, media relations, reputation management, issues management, and geopolitical counsel. The agency also provides specialized capabilities in influencer marketing, social listening, market research, and digital marketing. Their work is particularly centered on narrative development and C-suite counsel, helping clients navigate complex regulatory landscapes while advancing their strategic goals.

Services and Specialties

Ascent Strategy Group's service offerings are tailored to the intersection of healthcare innovation, regulation, and reputation. The agency has developed proprietary tools and methodologies to support clients in this space. Their services include:

• Reinvention and brand repositioning
• Reputation management via The Equipoise Method
• Culture tapping and influencer collaborations
• Storytelling and thought leadership
• Marketing communications and digital marketing
• Social media strategy and influencer marketing
• Research and market analysis
• Creative services and content development

Notably, Ascent Strategy Group has introduced the Digital Health IQ tool, a proprietary AI-supported communications algorithm that gauges medical professional perspectives and patient insights alongside clinical research. This tool is designed to promote adoption of emerging technologies such as AI, telemedicine, remote patient monitoring, quantum computing, and medical robotics. The agency is also developing the first communications protocols for health AI, positioning itself at the forefront of medical device marketing and healthtech communications.

Who They Help

Ascent Strategy Group works with a diverse client base that includes global brands, pioneering startups, and research hubs. The agency's expertise is particularly relevant for organizations operating in digital health, medical devices, life sciences, and healthtech. Clients often seek support for issues management, healthcare partnerships, and navigating regulatory scrutiny. The agency's team of strategists and writers collaborate with key opinion leaders and physician creators to provide clients with deep subject matter expertise. Ascent Strategy Group is especially suited for companies involved in remote patient monitoring, AI in healthcare, and healthcare AI protocols, as well as those looking to leverage influencer marketing within the medical field.

Approach and Methodology

The agency's approach is rooted in active listening, competitive analysis, and a relentless focus on optimizing budgets and maximizing ROI. Ascent Strategy Group has developed an award-winning advanced reputation management methodology called The Equipoise Method, which guides clients through sensitive communications challenges. Their team thinks differently about healthcare storytelling, paving a new path that combines clinical research with patient and professional insights. The agency's mission is to advance health equity, and they work at the zeitgeist of healthcare transformation ignition points. Ascent Strategy Group has been recognized by Modern Healthcare as Best in Business, received an In2 SABRE Storytelling Award nomination, and was named by Provoke Media as one of the Best New Agencies in North America.

Location and Credentials

Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, United States (60601), Ascent Strategy Group operates at the heart of a major healthcare and business hub. The agency's Chicago location allows it to tap into a rich network of medical institutions, research hubs, and corporate partners. Ascent Strategy Group's credentials include an In2 SABRE Excellence in Innovation nomination, reflecting its commitment to pioneering new tools and methods in public relations. The agency's team is composed of healthcare marketers and communicators with deep experience in medical device marketing, healthtech, and life sciences communications.

Ascent Strategy Group is a good fit for healthcare organizations—from startups to global brands—that need specialized PR and communications support during digital transformation. The agency is particularly suited for companies dealing with AI in healthcare, remote patient monitoring, or medical devices, as well as those seeking to build reputation through influencer marketing and strategic narrative development. With its proprietary tools and methodologies, Ascent Strategy Group offers a focused approach for clients navigating the complex intersection of innovation, regulation, and public perception in healthcare.