GE Healthcare said Thursday that it’s ramping up production of CT scanners, mobile x-ray systems and other imaging technology in response to “unprecedented demand” for medical equipment during the coronavirus pandemic.
The Chicago-based imaging giant said the increase in manufacturing capacity will also include greater output of ultrasound devices, patient monitors and ventilators. Employee safety is top-of-mind for the company, with GE providing personal protective equipment to field service engineers. It’s also looking to increase employees’ ability to diagnose and repair imaging devices remotely, President and CEO Kieran Murphy said March 19.
“As the global pandemic evolves, there is unprecedented demand for medical equipment, including ventilators. We continue to explore all options to support this increased need,” he said in a statement. “As we continue to support our customers and partners, the health and safety of our employees remains our top priority,” Kieran added later.
GE’s announcement follows a similar message from fellow imaging giant Royal Philips on March 18. Both companies also said they’re hiring additional manufacturing employees, and shifting workers to high-demand service lines, to further address demand.
Marty Stempniak has covered healthcare since 2012, with his byline appearing in the American Hospital Association's member magazine, Modern Healthcare and McKnight's. Prior to that, he wrote about village government and local business for his hometown newspaper in Oak Park, Illinois. He won a Peter Lisagor and Gold EXCEL awards in 2017 for his coverage of the opioid epidemic.