(Associated Press via NewsEdge) Philips Electronics and Intel will launch a wireless handheld device to assist doctors and nurses in recording and storing patient information.
Philips, one of the world's largest makers of medical equipment, said in a statement the device will be used 'to reduce medication errors, positively identify staff and patients, fill out charts, capture vital signs, write up reports and validate blood transfusions, as well as (give) the ability to closely monitor the healing of wounds.'
The company said it believed there was a market for the device, which will allow the medical professionals to relay and store data back to a patient's file on the spot, based on extensive research and interviews with hospital staff.
Philips spokesman Ian Race said it made sense for the two companies to collaborate, given that Philips makes many of the machines used in hospitals such as MRI scanners, while Intel has a specialization in making chips and technology surrounding mobile devices. Philips, which used to be a maker of both chips and mobile phones, has sold its mobile operations and licensed its brand and technology to a Chinese electronics maker.
Philips sold an 80.1% stake in NXP Semiconductors BV, its former semiconductor division, to a group of private equity investors led by Kohlberg Kravis Roberts for 4.3 billion euros ($5.58 billion) in August.
But Race said the divestment of the semiconductor division was not necessarily the reason for entering the joint venture with Intel. 'We've always been agnostic in terms of technology,' he said. 'We're going to use what makes the most sense.'
The product is due to come to market in the fourth quarter, and contains a touch screen and digital camera. A price has not yet been set.
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