“We are very pleased to introduce this progressive client server solution into our portfolio. It will allow for a portable architecture to support larger image datasets derived from molecular imaging technologies,” said Michael Reitermann, chief executive officer, Molecular Imaging, Siemens Healthcare. “As clinical utilisation for molecular imaging procedures increases, a client server solution such as Symbia.net allows users to have more flexibility for information exchange.”

Symbia.net is part of Siemens Molecular Imaging’s ongoing commitment to innovation and access. In addition to the recent release of several new systems into the PET•CT and SPECT•CT markets, this new client-server solution will allow facilities that require reading from multiple locations to easily share and access patient imaging data. Symbia.net is designed for the specific needs of molecular imaging with a user-friendly interface and advanced automation features. It improves clinical workflow by providing hospital staff with easy, economical, access to all patient cases and applications.

Symbia.net provides users access to full processing, viewing and reading capabilities from anywhere for greater flexibility and instant access to patient data when it is needed. Symbia.net is configurable with Siemens standard and advanced clinical applications engines, as well as third-party cardiac packages. It supports remote network connections via WAN, LAN, or VPN and includes wireless access, as well. Symbia.net servers can accommodate up to five users working in parallel.

Symbia.net was designed for easy installation, operation and integration. It will work with any existing SPECT or SPECT•CT system, RIS and PACS infrastructure. Image uploads to the server database are performed automatically, making it easy to access patient information. Additional remote users can be added at any time and installed remotely to grow with the needs of the imaging facility.

Symbia.net is easy to maintain, service, and expand as needs dictate. The basic Symbia.net configuration requires less capital investment than two stand-alone workstations with comparable configurations. It is also compatible with any PC or MAC that has a network connection and minimum hardware requirements.

The Siemens Healthcare Sector is one of the world’s largest suppliers to the healthcare industry. The company is a renowned medical solutions provider with core competence and innovative strength in diagnostic and therapeutic technologies as well as in knowledge engineering, including information technology and system integration. With its laboratory diagnostics acquisitions, Siemens Healthcare is the first integrated healthcare company, bringing together imaging and lab diagnostics, therapy, and healthcare information technology solutions, supplemented by consulting and support services. Siemens Healthcare delivers solutions across the entire continuum of care – from prevention and early detection, to diagnosis, therapy and care. Additionally, Siemens Healthcare is the global market leader in innovative hearing instruments. The company employs more than 49,000 people worldwide and operates in 130 countries. In the fiscal year 2007 (Sept. 30), Siemens Healthcare reported sales of €9.85 billion, orders of €10.27 billion, and group profit of €1.32 billion. Further information can be found by visiting http://www.siemens.com/healthcare

About Siemens Southern Africa:

Siemens has had a presence in South Africa since 1860 when the company installed the first telegraph line linking Cape Town and Simon’s Town. Today, Siemens offers a balanced portfolio of technologies focusing on the Industry, Energy and Healthcare sectors, together with the cross-sector business of Siemens IT Solutions and Services. The unique ability to offer horizontal, customised, end-to-end technology solutions enables Siemens to keep its customers one-step ahead. As a committed corporate citizen, Siemens has active corporate social investment programmes as well as a comprehensive approach to local content, manpower development, skills and training. Further information is available on the Internet at www.siemens.co.za