Vitalchat Bets on AI & People Power to Tackle Nursing Crisis & Build 'Smart Hospitals'

Raleigh, N.C. – November 9, 2025 – As healthcare systems nationwide struggle with unprecedented staffing shortages and escalating costs, technology firm Vitalchat is strategically investing in both its platform and its people. The company recently announced the promotions of Brady Keeter to Senior Vice President of Product and Mackenzie Laughridge to Senior Vice President of People – moves industry observers say signal a commitment to scaling innovation while solidifying a resilient organizational foundation.

Vitalchat is rapidly becoming a key player in the virtual care space, focused on transforming hospitals into “smart” facilities leveraging AI-powered audio and video technology. The company’s platform addresses critical challenges like nursing shortages, procedural telehealth, and care coordination, with the goal of improving nurse efficiency, enhancing patient care, and driving measurable return on investment for health systems.

Addressing the Critical Nursing Shortage
The timing of Vitalchat’s expansion couldn’t be more crucial. The American Nurses Association (ANA) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) paint a stark picture: a projected shortfall of over 200,000 registered nurses by 2025, exacerbated by burnout and an aging workforce. This shortage is driving up labor costs, impacting patient access, and creating unsustainable pressures on existing staff.

“Hospitals are facing a perfect storm,” explains a healthcare administrator familiar with Vitalchat’s technology. “They need to do more with less, and that means embracing technology that can augment their workforce and streamline processes. Virtual care isn't a replacement for nurses, but it’s a vital tool to help them focus on the most critical aspects of patient care.”

Keeter’s Vision: Elevating the Platform for ‘Smart Hospitals’
Brady Keeter’s promotion to SVP of Product reflects Vitalchat’s commitment to innovation. Keeter has spearheaded a comprehensive overhaul of the platform’s user interface and user experience (UI/UX), improving usability for clinical teams. Her team also developed the ProConnections Conversion Kit, designed to seamlessly integrate with existing telehealth infrastructure and unlock the full potential of virtual care data.

“The goal isn’t just to deliver video and audio,” Keeter explained in a statement. “It’s about turning that data into actionable insights. We're using AI to continuously analyze everything happening in the care setting – from vital signs to patient interactions – to identify trends, predict risks, and alert clinical teams to potential issues before they escalate.”

The company is increasingly focused on “ambient intelligence” within the hospital environment. This involves leveraging sensors, cameras, and AI to create a more responsive and proactive care experience. For example, AI algorithms can detect falls, monitor patient movements, and automatically adjust environmental controls to optimize comfort and safety.

Laughridge Building a Culture for Scale
While technology is at the core of Vitalchat’s offering, the company recognizes that its success depends on attracting and retaining top talent. That's where Mackenzie Laughridge comes in. As SVP of People, Laughridge is responsible for building a high-performing, engaged workforce capable of supporting the company’s rapid growth.

“Scaling a company is about more than just hiring more people,” Laughridge says. “It’s about creating a culture where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to do their best work. We've invested heavily in training and development programs to ensure that all of our employees have the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.”

Under Laughridge’s leadership, Vitalchat’s headcount has grown by over 200% – a testament to the company’s attractive culture and growth opportunities. She also spearheaded the company’s first audited financials, establishing a new level of organizational rigor and transparency – crucial for building trust with investors and partners.

Beyond the Hype: Real-World Impact
While the virtual care market is crowded with competing solutions, Vitalchat is differentiating itself through its focus on AI-driven insights and a holistic approach to hospital transformation. Industry analysts suggest that the company’s ability to integrate with existing infrastructure and deliver demonstrable ROI is a key competitive advantage.

“There’s a lot of hype around virtual care, but Vitalchat is focused on solving real-world problems,” says one healthcare IT consultant. “They’re not just selling technology; they’re delivering a solution that can help hospitals improve patient outcomes, reduce costs, and create a more sustainable care model.”

The Road Ahead
Vitalchat’s recent executive promotions signal a clear commitment to both innovation and people. As the healthcare industry continues to grapple with the challenges of staffing shortages, rising costs, and evolving patient expectations, companies like Vitalchat are poised to play a critical role in shaping the future of care. The company is actively expanding its partnerships with health systems across the country and exploring new applications for its AI-powered platform.

The key, according to industry observers, will be maintaining a balance between technological innovation and a commitment to creating a supportive and empowering work environment. Vitalchat’s leadership appears to recognize this, positioning the company for continued growth and success in the rapidly evolving healthcare landscape.