The University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health at UW?Madison and GE HealthCare announced a 10-year strategic collaboration that builds on an iconic relationship spanning more than 40 years. The new research collaboration expands the existing scope beyond medical imaging to new frontiers in digital technologies and disease-focused solutions. Combining UW?Madison?s world-class team of physicians, scientists, and researchers with GE HealthCare?s expertise in modernizing medical technology, the new collaboration augments foundations in imaging and medical physics with future plans that could drive improved diagnosis and disease management through developments in magnetic resonance (MR), computed tomography (CT), ultrasound, interventional radiology (IR), Theranostics and molecular imaging (MI) modalities, as well as patient care solutions.

The collaboration is aimed at shaping the future of medical imaging, to improve the standard of care and patient outcomes. Furthermore, it has the potential to advance artificial intelligence (AI) and digital solutions across the care continuum to enhance clinical workflows and the delivery of more precise, personalized care with greater value. Over the past decade, UW-Madison and GE HealthCare have conducted more than 130 research studies, leading to numerous scientific and technological advancements.

For example, a landmark study using quantitative MRI to map iron concentration in the liver showed the potential for early liver disease detection and management. Additionally, in a study using GE HealthCare?s TrueFidelity deep learning reconstruction technology for CT imaging, the research teams optimized CT image quality and minimized radiation exposure to the patient. The UW?Madison Department of Radiology and Department of Medical Physics are playing instrumental roles in establishing an Institute of Theranostics and Particle Therapy within UW Carbone Cancer Center.

With the goal of developing new curative cancer therapies, the effort demonstrates how research is quickly translating into patient care.