Dermatologist Dr Alice Martin is the co-founder of dermatology app dermanostic, one of Düsseldorf's most dynamic healthcare startups. At dermanostic, she provides digital care for people with skin conditions - from diagnosis and treatment recommendations to prescription of medication. As a passionate communicator of dermatology issues, she shares the story and benefits of telemedicine with the outside world - via social media as well as on stage and at events.

What characterises Düsseldorf?
Düsseldorf inspires me with a fantastic mix on so many different levels. The food scene is a real highlight and offers a great selection of restaurants, especially if you like Japanese cuisine. There are a lot of parks in the city and the perfect connection to the Rhine means there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The city centre also has its own charm. The old town is cosy and vibrant, while the Königsallee is full of high-end shops.

Düsseldorf in three words:
Lively. Versatile. Stylish.

Düsseldorf is a good location for the healthcare industry because...
...we have a huge university hospital very close to the city centre, which is heavily involved in research. There are also large companies and management consultancies that conduct studies in the healthcare sector. This shows that the healthcare sector is not just 'trendy', but is increasingly becoming the focus of business. We have many events and networking opportunities in the startup scene in Düsseldorf. It's great to see that more and more companies are starting up in the healthcare sector, and we're happy to be part of it.

Here in Düsseldorf, I get in a good mood.
Definitely at the 'Unbehaun' ice cream parlour. They serve incredibly delicious ice cream in six flavours at a great price, which is very unusual for Düsseldorf. My husband and I treat ourselves to a visit almost every day in the summer.

Here in Düsseldorf, I get my inspiration.
I really appreciate the combination of traditional charm and modern flair in Düsseldorf. The city and its people are a colourful mix of different styles and cultures, which provides a lot of inspiration! This authentic diversity is reflected in the many cafés and restaurants. There is something for everyone!

Here in Düsseldorf, I meet interesting people in Düsseldorf
The city is full of people from different cultures who will provide invigorating inspiration - in many different ways, depending on the district you are in. Of course, personal interests also play a big role. I met many of my friends while studying at the Heinrich-Heine-University, and I also made a lot of new acquaintances while boxing (my favourite hobby).

Places like the Startplatz in Düsseldorf, where dermanostic started, are a real hub for creative minds. Ideas just bubble up here and the exchange with others is incredibly enriching. •

INTERVIEW TOM CORRINTH
PICTURES PATRYCIA LUKAS

Why Düsseldorf?