GE Healthcare, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of medical technology and equipment, is adding production lines, hiring workers and expanding output to help arm hospitals and medical professionals with the equipment they need to diagnose and care for patients suffering from COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. “As the global pandemic evolves, there is unprecedented demand for medical equipment, including ventilators," said Kieran Murphy, GE Healthcare’s president and CEO. "We continue to explore all options to support this increased need.”
Murphy said GE increased manufacturing capacity and output of computed tomography scanners (CTs), ultrasound devices, mobile X-ray systems, patient monitors and ventilators. He stressed the company was “taking steps to ensure safe operations for GE employees.”
To help speed production of ventilators, which are essential for treating some of the most critical COVID-19 cases, GE Healthcare is adding manufacturing lines and increasing the number of shifts to help factories assemble equipment around the clock. To meet demand, the company is hiring workers and moving current employees to shift work.
GE also is working closely with suppliers to manage global supply chains to help mitigate any shortages and minimize effects on customers.
GE is also partnering with global regulators and offering the company’s clinical and technical expertise to address questions from customers on how to better meet patients’ needs. “Our dedicated teams are working around the clock to ensure that our customers and partners on the front lines have the equipment and servicing needed to diagnose and treat patients with COVID-19,” Murphy said.
GE is also boosting its remote service and repair capabilities. “As we continue to support our customers and partners, the health and safety of our employees remain our top priority,” Murphy said. “I am deeply proud of the work the GE Healthcare team is doing to tackle this global challenge.”
Top image credit: GE Healthcare.