To optimize workflows and clinical decisions with better image quality, GE HealthCare strengthens its commitment in the region with cutting-edge technologies such as C-arm, ultrasound with AI, advanced Magnetic Resonance systems and computed tomography platforms.
Faced with the current challenges of acquiring technologies that help optimize spaces, reduce waiting times, deliver accurate diagnoses and improve workflows, the company GE Healthcare presented the latest advances and innovation in its imaging and ultrasound business unitsintegrating cutting-edge digital solutions.
In interview with Adriana Franco, Country Manager of GE HealthCare and Colombiawe talked about some characteristics and benefits of these technologies, as well as the company’s future vision that contemplates constant innovation and alternatives for easy acquisition of equipment and adoption by health professionals.
According to the 2022 annual report, the financial results of GE Healthcare were around USD 18.3 billion. In the fourth quarter of 2022 alone, driven by growth in imaging, ultrasound and patient care solutions (PCS) business lines, revenue was $4.9 billion and increased 8% and 13% on an organic basis year-over-year. “These numbers reflect the company’s commitment to innovation and its prominent position in the health sector,” says director Franco.
“As leaders in medical technology and diagnostic innovation, GE HealthCare is committed to providing highly innovative, best-in-class solutions to help physicians and healthcare professionals make faster, more informed decisions,” expressed Adriana Franco, Country Manager of GE HealthCare in Colombia.
In the field of radiology, GE HealthCare offers advanced technologies that stand out for their quality and differentiating features compared to other available solutions. These are some of the most important equipment:
1. COMPACT AND ALL-IN-ONE C-ARCH
Among the most innovative technologies that drive the future of diagnostic imaging in the region, the multifunctional mobile C-arm OEC One. This team offers extensive imaging capabilities for a wide variety of procedures ranging from pain treatment to vascular applications.
This technology has five ranges of movement and incorporates a 27″ monitor that allows clearer and more detailed images to be processed. The Arco OEC One has an ergonomic design and reduced size to better maneuverability in the needs that arise in the operating room.
Viewing synchronized images, is another of its outstanding characteristics, since Provides effective communication and rapid response of clinical expectations with a synchronized view of the live imageboth on the main monitor and on the OEC Touch control panel.
2. HIGH PERFORMANCE ULTRASOUND
He LOGIQ Fortis is GE HealthCare’s affordable all-in-one solution to help specialists perform a broad spectrum of exams and procedures with greater speed, ease and comfort. This Ultrasound equipment provides images of the whole body with exceptional qualityoffering greater confidence across a wide range of clinical applications.
This team has artificial intelligence tools that help reduce the need for invasive procedures and provide valuable information for making informed decisions. Additionally, the Fortis ultrasound system is suitable for any patient from head to toe, from people with high or low BMI, neonates or the elderly in any type of institution.
3. MAGNETIC RESONANCE WITH LESS ENERGY CONSUMPTION
The MRI system SIGNA Travel it’s a equipment designed to maximize productivity and workflow in the area of diagnostic imaging, molecular imaging or tomography, while offering great comfort for the patient. This system has a smaller 1.5 T wide tunnel and “has one of the lowest energy consumption in the industry, which helps reduce installation and operation costs,” commented Adriana Franco.
On the other hand, MRI technology SIGNA Voyager has one of the most homogeneous magnets in the sector and therefore gives the health professional the freedom to choose the field of vision that best suits each specific case.. That is, whether you need to obtain a large, homogeneous field of view to visualize the entire abdominal cavity or whether you need to focus on the smallest lesions in an anatomical area, SIGNA Voyager offers guaranteed results.
4. COMPUTERIZED TOMOGRAPHY PLATFORMS
The equipment that uses the most advanced technology in all dimensions of the image processing chain are the CT platforms Revolution Apex y Revolution Apex Elite. They have a workflow model that allows fast and accurate acquisition of diagnostic imagesoptimizing the process. Additionally, they are designed to adapt to future technological advances, making them future-proof.
Some additional features of the Revolution system that make these CT machines stand out are: first, offers regular software updates with new features and workflow improvements, as well as image quality tools, dose management, cybersecurity and maintenance. Secondly, you can make updates on site of detector coverage from 4 cm to 8 cm or 16 cm without having to change the gantry. On the other hand, with the innovative integrated option PowerPrositing issues will no longer prevent the addition of technology powerful solution to the diagnostic imaging department or clinic.
GE HEALTHCARE STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESSFUL ADOPTION OF RADIOLOGICAL EQUIPMENT
GE Healthcare offers a wide range of solutions to guarantee the successful adoption of its equipment in countries like Colombia and others from Latin America. In the words of Adriana Franco, “these solutions are provided directly from the company, through its financial solutions area, or indirectly through its exclusive distribution channels”. In this way, access to cutting-edge equipment is facilitated despite budget challenges, hospital infrastructure challenges, and health system reforms.
The integration of artificial intelligence tools and the ability to obtain clearer and more detailed images are attractive aspects for health professionals. These features provide them with the opportunity to improve diagnostic accuracy and quality of medical care. According to the general director of GE HealthCare in Colombia, “the GE HealthCare commitment in providing solutions adapted to the needs of hospitals and diagnostic centers, Together with its experience and reputation in the market, it has generated trust among professionals, who value the ability of this equipment to improve efficiency and optimize clinical results.”.
Medical professionals know that the industry is constantly developing to improve the user experience and facilitate diagnoses. In this sense, medical directors, technicians, biomedics and other healthcare professionals have responded positively to GE HealthCare radiology equipment. The advances of these 4 technologies recently presented at the Colombian Congress of Radiology reflect the company’s commitment to providing highly innovative and high-quality solutions to improve decision making and optimize the efficiency of medical services.
GE HEALTHCARE INNOVATION PLANS IN RADIOLOGY
The director of GE HealthCare Colombia, Adriana Franco, told us that the company has concrete plans to continue innovating in the field of radiology and improving the quality and efficiency of its diagnostic imaging equipment. These plans focus on three key aspects:
1. Research and Development:
The company carries out constant research to understand the specific needs of each market, including the Colombian one. This allows them to develop personalized solutions adapted to the demands of health professionals and patients. Besides, GE HealthCare invests annually in research and development to stay at the forefront of the latest technologies and trends in radiology, including AI, machine learning and advanced analytics.
2. Image quality improvement:
GE HealthCare’s goal is to provide the highest quality images to improve the diagnostic process. To achieve this, they are working on the development of advanced algorithms that optimize image quality, reduce noise and improve resolution. This will allow radiologists to obtain clearer and more precise imageswhich in turn will lead to more reliable diagnoses and more effective treatments.
3. Improved efficiency:
GE HealthCare recognizes the importance of optimizing clinical workflows and increasing efficiency in the field of radiology. In that sense, they are developing solutions that streamline and automate processes such as image acquisition, data interpretation and diagnostic report generation. These solutions will reduce waiting time for patients and allow healthcare professionals to make faster and more accurate decisions.