Patient-centric solutions
Demographic change is sweeping the globe. In many parts of the world – in Africa and Asia in particular – populations are rapidly growing. The U.N. predicts that the global population, now about 6.7 billion people, will have surpassed the nine-billion mark by 2050. At the same time, societies are rapidly aging – not only in the industrialized countries but also in emerging countries like China and India. In 2050, there will be more people over 60 than under 14. As a result of these developments, the demand for healthcare – both preventive and curative – is expected to soar.
To make high-quality, patient-oriented, affordable healthcare a reality for growing numbers of people, efficiencies must be increased all along the healthcare continuum – from prevention, early detection and diagnosis to therapy and follow-up care. That’s why it’s critical to optimize the healthcare workflow, which means all activities associated with patient care. The strategy of Siemens Medical Solutions is to improve workflow along the entire supply chain. This can best be achieved through continued innovation in applicable technologies and through the optimization of relevant processes, for example, by implementing healthcare IT solutions.
Prevention and early detection are key factors in combatting disease. Treatment in the earliest stages is not only much more effective but also less costly than initiating therapy later. We’re unleashing great potential by coupling imaging technologies used for in-vivo diagnostics (such as CT and MRI scans) with in-vitro diagnostics (such as tissue and fluid analysis). This integrated approach to diagnostics is vital to improving patient outcomes.
Such advances in healthcare quality can be achieved only by leveraging clinical IT solutions that enable the seamless transfer of data between hospitals, laboratories and doctors’ offices. Our innovative IT systems not only support administrative processes like hospital room assignment, operation scheduling and physician invoicing. They also enhance patient care – for example, by monitoring medications and eliminating costly duplication of clinical procedures. In addition, computer-aided diagnostic systems can be used to evaluate imaging data, making data analysis and interpretation more efficient.
Over the last few years, we’ve expanded our portfolio through targeted acquisitions. By acquiring Shared Medical Systems (healthcare IT) in 2000, CTI Molecular Imaging in 2005, Diagnostic Products Corporation (DPC) and Bayer Diagnostics in 2006, and Dade Behring in 2007, we’ve created the world’s first and only fully integrated diagnostics company combining imaging diagnostics, laboratory diagnostics and clinical IT under one roof.
Integrated diagnostics are improving healthcare quality
Patients are destined to reap great benefits from the ever greater integration of imaging and laboratory diagnostics. Today, doctors can obtain razor-sharp three-dimensional images of the heart and its vessels from computed tomography (CT) systems such as our dual-source Somatom Definition CT scanner. However, the chances of detecting dangerous vascular changes (so-called vulnerable plaques) early on are often still limited – for example, in the case of young at-risk patients – since imaging diagnostics are not routinely performed at the pre-symptomatic stage. As laboratories and radiology departments become more closely networked, it’s conceivable that blood tests could be used to assess whether individuals may be prone to future heart attacks. CT scans could then be carried out on high-risk patients to obtain a precise diagnosis and initiate suitable treatment.
Integrated diagnostics has tremendous potential in the field of oncology as well. In the future, genetic testing could provide an initial risk assessment for various types of cancer, for example, breast cancer. High-risk patients could then be advised to have more frequent screenings. Laboratory diagnostics also help detect cancer at an early stage by uncovering disease-specific tumor markers such as cancer antigens. State-of-the-art imaging systems can then be used to pinpoint the disease and treatment can begin, improving patient outcomes while minimizing costs.
Innovation is our lifeblood
The innovations we introduced in 2007 are also part of our strategy to enhance the quality of care while cutting costs.
With our Magnetom Essenza and Magnetom Verio systems – two trailblazing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners based on Total imaging matrix (Tim) technology – we’ve once again proven our technological leadership. Priced well below conventional systems, Magnetom Essenza is the most affordable, all-new 1.5-tesla MRI system on the market. It was developed from the ground up to meet low budgets for purchase, installation and operation – through new innovations. The Magnetom Verio is the world’s first MRI system to combine 3-tesla technology with a 70-centimeter open bore. The enlarged opening accommodates patients who could not be examined with earlier 3-tesla systems, such as claustrophobic and obese persons and patients who require special positioning.
The Artis zee family, our next generation of interventional imaging systems, offers breakthrough versatility, enhanced imaging capabilities and streamlines workflow across an array of clinical environments. This makes it a further testimony to our power of innovation. The new revolutionary member of the family is Artis zeego, the first multi-axis system based on robotic technology. Featuring virtually unrestricted C-arm positioning from head to toe, the Artis zeego combines interventional imaging with maximum flexibility, making the system significantly easier for physicians to use and saving time and money.
Our Somatom Definition AS system is the world’s first adaptive computed tomography (CT) scanner. Not only can the system adapt to virtually any patient, including obese persons and emergency patients, who are often difficult to scan; it is also suitable for a wide range of clinical applications. In addition, the Somatom Definition AS provides an exceptional solution by adapting for complete radiation dose protection, eliminating clinically irrelevant doses. Thus, the new adaptive scanner is overcoming the drawbacks of conventional CT imaging.
We’re also meeting the clinical and economic demands for increased ultrasound performance with a completely new generation of ultrasound solutions, such as our Acuson S Class and the world’s smallest ultrasound system, the Acuson P10. The handheld Acuson P10 fits into a lab coat pocket and is primarily used for initial emergency and cardiac assessments as well as in obstetrics, most notably in labor and delivery.
Our new MAMMOMAT Inspiration* system was specifically developed as a digital mammography platform capable of handling large numbers of patients. With its innovative high-speed detector and a significant reduction in the number of mouse clicks required for setup, the system enables physicians to examine up to 15 patients per hour. By incorporating a new feature called MoodLight, we’re the first provider of mammography systems to support a relaxed atmosphere for patients and staff alike during examinations.
* CAUTION: Investigational Device. Limited by U.S. Federal law to investigational use. This product is not commercially available in the United States (USA). The information about the MAMMOMAT Inspiration is being provided for planning purposes. The product must be reviewed via the FDA PMA review process and its future availability cannot be ensured.
Setting trends in healthcare
With our broad portfolio of solutions, we’re ideally positioned to shape future developments in medical care – together with our customers and partners. Our nearly 8,000 researchers and developers worldwide are ensuring that we continue to drive innovation across the healthcare continuum – for the benefit of people all over the world.
Übersicht
- Integrated diagnostics are improving healthcare quality
- Innovation is our lifeblood
- Setting trends in healthcare
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