Telstra Health has confirmed having acquired United Kingdom-based firm Dr Foster, a key development in its global health analytics capability.
Dr Foster works with healthcare organizations to achieve sustainable improvements in their performance through better use of data. It uses risk adjusted methodologies to compare the outcomes of individual hospital patients, allowing adjustment for individual factors such as medical history, age or other background factors.
Telstra Health had previously secured the exclusive rights to provide Dr Foster products and services in Australia in December 2013, with agreements now in place with 15 health services in Australia.
Shane Solomon, Telstra Health’s managing director, said the acquisition will provide Telstra Health with cutting-edge analytical capability and is a natural addition to its health analytics stream.
“We have had a successful relationship as the exclusive reseller of Dr Foster in Australia and when the opportunity arose to purchase the company we saw it as a logical next step, acquiring not only a leading and innovative business but also the experience and skills that will help us compete on the global stage,” said Solomon.
“Health analytics is a key ingredient to improving efficiency, safety and outcomes for patients, providers and health insurers,” added Solomon. “The acquisition aligns with Telstra Health’s strategy to create a truly connected health care system and become a leading provider of integrated eHealth solutions.”