Philips, Swisstec Analytics, NT Govt sign MOU with bold plans for hi-tech health hub

Global giant in health technology Philips has plans to design and produce deployable healthcare modules in the Territory.

GLOBAL giant in health technology Philips has plans to design and produce deployable healthcare modules in the Territory that will increase access to health services for remote and regional Northern Australia and Southeast Asia.

The rapid-built health modules will offer primary care ­services.

Philips says it plans to position Darwin as the hub for its technology delivery across the near northern neighbours, as well as the training of Australian and regional technicians who work on Philips diagnostic equipment.

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It says it will develop deployable modules that can be rolled out across the near North, bringing advanced manufacturing opportunities to the Northern Territory and creating jobs in adjacent sectors such as learning, teaching and ongoing CPD.

The Territory will act as the design hub, test bed and training base for the joint deployable healthcare modules project to kick off this year.

Chief Minister Michael Gunner signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Tuesday with Royal Philips and Swisstec Analytics as a first step towards a strategic partnership that will see the delivery of an operational model tested and evaluated in Australia.

Matt Moran, Managing Director Australia & New Zealand at Philips General Manager Health Systems Australia & New Zealand, NT Chief Minister Michael Gunner, Gary Hogan NT Security Advisory Group (representing Swisstec). Picture: SUPPLIED

“This would leverage the Northern Territory’s strategic geographic location as a gateway hub into the Indo-Pacific region,” Philips says.

“Philips will lead the project design in addition to development of training courses. Swisstec will support with co-ordination throughout the length of the project and carry out the management function for the deployable healthcare module once it is deployed.”

Chief Minister Michael Gunner said the DHM project aligned with the recommendations of the Territory Economic Reconstruction Commission (TERC) report, released in November, which identified advanced manufacturing as an industry the Territory government should aim to foster and grow.

“Collaborations with global companies like Philips and its partner Swisstec can lead to improved health outcomes,” Mr Gunner said.

Philips Australia and New Zealand managing director Matt Moran said its global reach, deep insights and innovative strength uniquely positioned it to drive digital health solutions in support of the Territory’s broader social and economic goals.

“We’re proud to partner with the Northern Territory government and Swisstec to develop innovative solutions to expand access to quality healthcare,” he said.