In a significant step towards advancing its healthcare infrastructure and reducing dependency on imported medical equipment, the Kazakh government has entered into a landmark partnership with GE Healthcare, a leading American multinational medical technology company. The collaboration, marked by a framework agreement, outlines a substantial investment plan exceeding $60 bn, encompassing various critical areas, including the localization of medical equipment production.
The agreement was formally inked during a meeting on September 19, held in New York between the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, and Rob Walton, President of GE Healthcare for Europe, Middle East, and Africa, in the presence of distinguished officials from both sides.
As per Kazakh Minister of Healthcare Azhar Giniyat, the framework agreement outlines investments of over $60 bn, signifying the commitment of both parties to bolster Kazakhstan's healthcare sector and enhance self-reliance in medical equipment production.
Rob Walton, representing GE Healthcare, outlined the company's ambitious plans, which begin with the localization of ultrasound machine production. Subsequently, they aim to establish manufacturing facilities for CT scanners, angiographs, and mammographs within Kazakhstan. This development aligns with President Tokayev's vision of increasing domestic pharmaceutical and medical equipment production to 50% by 2025.
President Tokayev lauded the partnership, stating that it perfectly aligns with the national goal of bolstering domestic production capacity. He expressed his optimism that this venture would contribute significantly to the advancement of Kazakhstan's healthcare industry.
Walton also unveiled GE Healthcare's plans to establish a Centralized National Digital Archive of Clinical Images within Kazakhstan. This innovative archive will streamline the management of patient data and reduce the overall cost of healthcare services, enhancing patient care and accessibility.
In addition to equipment production and data management, GE Healthcare will play a pivotal role in the development of healthcare personnel in Kazakhstan. The company intends to launch educational programs aimed at improving the qualifications of healthcare professionals. To facilitate this, the GE Healthcare Academy will be established, with its base at Astana Medical University. The educational institution is slated to commence full-fledged operations this October, ushering in a new era of healthcare education in Kazakhstan.
GE Healthcare, a global leader in the medical technology sector, currently operates in more than 140 countries. In 2022, the company reported impressive revenues of $19 bn and boasted a market capitalization of $34.5 bn. This partnership signifies a significant stride in advancing healthcare capabilities in Kazakhstan, ultimately benefitting the nation's citizens with improved healthcare services and greater self-sufficiency in medical equipment production.
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