At Arab Health, Fujifilm Middle East was participating to spotlight its acquisition of Hitachi’s Diagnostic Imaging-related business to expand its healthcare business further.
In an interview, Michio Kondo, Managing Director, Fujifilm Middle East FZE, said that the acquisition was completed on April 1, and their presence at Arab Health was to show how these companies are collaborating with each other. Excerpts:
What has been the impact of COVID-19 on the medical imaging industry?
COVID-19 has impacted medical imaging in a big way. All of the investment now has shifted towards medical preparation towards prevention. We have put in a lot of effort to prevent COVID-19. But we recognise that patients will be hesitant now to come into the hospitals due to the pandemic and, therefore, some products and businesses have been impacted.
At the show, we are showcasing solutions in the diagnostic area and are displaying products, such as mobile X-ray and chest-X ray, which are helping in the prevention of COVID-19. We are also working with a pharmaceutical company, who are carrying out the R&D process, and we are supporting the production of the COVID-19 vaccines.
What has been the impact of AI in medical imaging?
We aim to incorporate AI in all our X-ray products. Currently, most of our products have already been combined with an AI function. We are also working towards incorporating these in CT and MRI. These functionalities are going a long way in helping radiologists.
How, in your opinion, can companies continue to operate in the new normal?
COVID-19 has accelerated the adoption of technology, which is excellent. But having physical contact is also essential. Thanks to the vaccine, people are ready to travel and have that physical connection again, which is a big motivation. So, we have to prepare for servicing the anticipated demand.
Are there any future plans you would like to highlight?
The partnership between Fujifilm and Hitachi is quite substantial, and the companies have now merged. We will continue to invest in the healthcare growth business. We are working towards exploring the synergy between the companies.
