#Norway #Sectra #Linköping #Helse Nord #Digital Pathology

Norwegian Healthcare Expands Digital Capabilities with Sectra

In a pioneering move to enhance cancer care through improved diagnostic processes, the Norwegian healthcare region Helse Nord RHF has announced an expanded enterprise imaging contract with Sectra, a leading player in medical imaging IT and cybersecurity. This expansion incorporates digital pathology diagnostics, marking a significant step forward in the integration of advanced healthcare technology and collaborative practices.

Helse Nord RHF has been utilizing Sectra’s imaging solutions for over a decade, particularly in radiology. According to Kai-Sverre Fjellberg, Imaging Services Manager at Helse Nord RHF, the institution is excited about the potential benefits of adopting Sectra's digital pathology solutions. “We have used Sectra’s solution for many years to enhance our radiology operations and now look forward to realizing similar benefits in the diagnostic workflows in pathology,” he stated.

Why Digital Pathology Matters

The implementation of digital pathology offers numerous advantages that promise to enhance overall patient care. The digital workflow facilitates better collaboration among pathologists and other medical specialists, especially in complex cases where second opinions and expertise might be necessary. The transition from traditional glass slides to digital images allows pathologists to access and review tissue samples more efficiently and securely.

One of the most promising features of Sectra's digital solution is its scalability. This means that Helse Nord RHF can adapt and grow its usage across different medical specializations, enhancing the overall efficiency of the healthcare system. With this transition, pathologists will be able to handle cases with greater ease, offering quicker diagnosis and enhanced care strategies, especially crucial in cancer treatment where time can be a determining factor in outcomes.

A Long-term Partnership

The pathology contract, signed in November 2024, is an extension of the existing collaboration between Helse Nord RHF and Sectra, which dates back to 2011. The decision to expand this partnership into digital pathology highlights Helse Nord RHF's commitment to adopting innovative technologies that improve patient care. Petter Østbye, General Manager at Sectra Scandinavia, expressed enthusiasm about this development, noting that many healthcare providers are now adopting comprehensive digital imaging strategies as a vital component of enhancing patient outcomes.

The Future of Imaging Solutions

Sectra's digital pathology module integrates seamlessly into the enterprise imaging solution, providing a unified strategy for all imaging requirements within healthcare settings. This integration is not just about enhancing workflows but also about significantly reducing operational costs associated with manual image handling and review. Healthcare providers benefit from the vendor-neutral nature of Sectra's offering, allowing them to maintain data security while optimizing the efficiency of their diagnostic processes.

As digital pathology continues to evolve, it can be expected that more healthcare institutions will follow in the footsteps of Helse Nord RHF, adopting similar strategies to harness the power of technology in improving diagnostic accuracy and patient care.

About Sectra

Founded in 1978, Sectra is dedicated to creating a healthier, safer society by enhancing the efficiency of care systems globally. The company operates in 19 countries, delivering robust solutions in imaging and cybersecurity. With a fiscal year 2023/2024 revenue of SEK 2,964 million, Sectra is recognized as a leader in the healthcare technology space, consistently ranked among the best in class for imaging solutions processed through its enterprise framework.

For more information about Sectra’s innovative technologies and solutions, please visit their official website.