Govt and IT spurs medical imaging mkt

CALIFORNIA, USA: The global medical imaging industry is experiencing a digital revolution, driven largely by strong government programs, as per a research study.

GIA points that continuous technological advancements are also playing a pivotal role in the healthcare digitization movement by catalysing the evolution of digital images from a mere diagnostic tool into a powerful instrument used for the prevention of medical conditions and more importantly as a pre-surgical tool.

The long fabled ability to painlessly and accurately visualize the human anatomical structure and offer diagnosis within seconds and with as little radiation exposure as possible, has finally become a reality enabled largely by digital radiography (DR). Given the magnitude of advantages offered by digital radiology, radiology will become a leading field where numerous technology solutions, and digital initiatives will be implemented. This therefore provides digital radiography substantial opportunities for growth in the coming years, as Global Industry Analysts, Inc alluded in a recent study.

Technological advancements in terms of hardware, including sources, detectors, tubes as well as software, have immensely contributed towards enhancing cost-effectiveness, efficiency as well as user-friendliness of DR systems. Launch of newer, more compact and powerful DR equipment models is expected to encourage widespread use.

In addition, the introduction of highly advanced DR systems, which provides enhanced image resolution along with radiation dose reduction is also expected to add to the strength of the market in the coming years. wireless, portable DR detectors are growing popularity. Wireless Digital Radiography, is forecast to gain momentum in the long-run as hospitals begin to wield information systems as a tool to leverage the advantages of DR systems.

The global digital radiography market is dominated by the United States largely due to the existence of a robust healthcare infrastructure. As stated by the new market research report on Digital Radiography, the United States represents the largest market worldwide.

Growth in the country is driven the rapidly aging population which requires twice as much radiographic examination. Asia-Pacific and Latin America are forecast to emerge into the fastest growing markets worldwide. China, India, and Brazil present ample opportunities for growth led by growing awareness over the importance of quality healthcare, economic growth, governmental support, greater emphasis on improving healthcare infrastructure, and better access to high quality, affordable healthcare services.