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California-based Sutter Health is entering into a seven-year partnership with GE Healthcare to integrate artificial intelligence technology into its healthcare system. operationsorganisms said this week.
Sutter and GE expect the partnership to generate about $1 billion in revenue, according to Bloomberg.
Known as the Care Alliance, the partnership focuses largely on imaging services and access to diagnostic care across the state. Care Alliance would enable faster appointment scheduling, accelerate diagnostic imaging scan results, earlier diagnoses and deliver more timely care, according to the companies.
WHAT IS THE IMPACT?
Sutter Health said the alliance will give it faster access to new equipment and technology, as well as an improved service delivery model.
The alliance will focus on a number of immediate goals, including expanded access to care, improved patient experience, greater consistency regardless of location of care, increased capacity for patients, greater integration and interoperability of systems, as well as timely updating of necessary equipment.
The Care Alliance’s first key focus area is an accelerated technology program across the Sutter Health system that will focus on AI-based imaging technology, including PET/CT, SPECT/CT, MRI, CT, X-rays, nuclear medicine and ultrasound. .
Imaging and ultrasound equipment will be implemented throughout the health system over several years, Sutter said.
The deal would also include a significant investment in Sutter Health’s workforce development programs, to include continuing education for technologists, nurses and physicians through Sutter Health University. GE HealthCare plans to help Sutter design a scalable workforce and talent development program that includes community outreach on the talent pathway, collaborations with radiology technologist schools, and acquisition , talent development and retention, including leadership and clinical learning pathways.
THE BIGGEST TREND
In 2023 Sutter Health in partnership with the Sansum Clinic in Santa Barbara, California, expanding Sutter’s presence in the state.
Sutter said he benefits from Sansum’s expertise, 102-year legacy and partnerships with local leaders and the community.
Sansum Clinic, also a not-for-profit system, operates patient care locations in Carpinteria, Santa Barbara, Goleta, Solvang, Lompoc and Santa Maria, California.
Jeff Lagasse is editor-in-chief of Healthcare Finance News.
E-mail: jlagasse@himss.org
Healthcare Finance News is a HIMSS Media publication.