A Medical Device Daily

Siemens (Munich, Germany) reported launch of a project to achieve what it called "sustainable improvements" in healthcare in rural areas of China and that it will invest $10 million in the project over the next five years. It said that the project is a contribution to the Clinton Global Initiative to support poorer regions in threshold countries.

Siemens said it will initially outfit pilot hospitals with diagnostic equipment including ultrasound and X-ray systems in a facility in the Shaanxi Province. Not far from each rural hospital, Siemens will equip six urban health centers with X-ray and ultrasound systems. Siemens will maintain the technical infrastructure once in place.

The project, headed by China's Ministry of Health, is part of the Clinton Global Initiative linking politics and business, as well as wealthy individuals and philanthropists, to tackle challenges faced by societies.

The project agreement was signed yesterday by Siemens and the Shaanxi Bureau of Health.

"All people, regardless of their status or origin, should have access to high-quality healthcare. This is an important prerequisite for a peaceful and just society. We are especially pleased when leading companies like Siemens provide their competence for such efforts," commented Zhang Huaixi, vice chairman of the Chinese People's Consultative Conference.

"Participation in the Clinton Global Initiative underscores Siemens' efforts and commitment to give people worldwide access to better healthcare," stated Dr. Richard Hausmann.