ANDOVER, Mass., Dec. 2, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) today announced the initiation of a Consortium of health care leaders that will drive the creation of mobile ultrasound solutions, highlighted by the demonstration of a new app-based ultrasound proof-of-concept. Launched at this week's Radiological Society of North America (RSNA meeting) in Chicago, Ill., the Consortium will consist of experts from across the health continuum, including bioengineers, radiologists, clinicians and payers, who will conduct research and explore ways to extend the reach of ultrasound applications into the hands of more health care professionals as they guide patients from diagnosis to treatment and recovery.

This Consortium builds on Philips' momentum in the development of technology that opens new opportunities to connect care across the health continuum using app-based ultrasound solutions designed to interface with the Philips HealthSuite Digital Platform.

"We see the value of broadening the use of ultrasound across the health continuum. It is often the necessary handshake from a patient to a clinician, or a paramedic to an emergency medicine doctor to determine the next step in treatment," said Vitor Rocha, CEO and Senior Vice President of Ultrasound for Philips Imaging Systems. "We believe collaboration around the most innovative technology is the best way to solve the industry's problems, and our Consortium and proof-of-concept will enable us to test a number of new uses for ultrasound that will help clinicians make better, faster diagnoses and ultimately reduce healthcare costs."

Philips is actively recruiting members for the Consortium and will convene the multi-disciplinary group two times a year to gain insights to create the future of mobile ultrasound innovation. During RSNA, Philips is hosting a Listening Room to begin the conversation on this topic. Qualified attendees, including physicians, radiologists, scientists, educators, etc., can visit the Philips booth (#6742) for appointment availability. For more information on the Consortium, visit www.philips.com/UltrasoundConsortium.

Inaugural Consortium members include:

• Jagat Narula, M.D., Ph.D., Associate Dean for Global Affairs, Professor of Radiology and Medicine, Cardiology, at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and Director of Cardiovascular Imaging Program of Mount Sinai Heart at The Mount Sinai Hospital
• Norman J. Beauchamp, M.D., M.H.S., Professor and Chair, The University of Washington Department of Radiology
• Michael B. Stone, M.D.,  FACEP, Chief, Division of Emergency Ultrasound, Department of Emergency Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Assistant Professor, Emergency Medicine, Harvard Medical School

"Ultrasound is a critical tool in diagnostic imaging and general healthcare, and it will become even more essential as technology advances by providing improved data to physicians anywhere, faster, and enabling us to focus on what's most important – patient care," said Dr. Narula of Mount Sinai. "This Consortium enables true collaboration and encourages the exchange of innovative ideas to address specific needs within the medical community."

Philips is also showcasing its full suite of ultrasound solutions at RSNA in booth #6742. Visit www.philips.com/rsna and follow @PhilipsHealth for more information on Philips' presence at #RSNA14.

For further information, please contact:
Kathy O'Reilly
Philips
Tel: +1 978-659-2638
Mobile: +1 978-221-8919
Email: kathy.oreilly@philips.com
Twitter: @kathyoreilly

About Royal Philips:
Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) is a diversified health and well-being company, focused on improving people's lives through meaningful innovation in the areas of Healthcare, Consumer Lifestyle and Lighting. Headquartered in the Netherlands, Philips posted 2013 sales of EUR 23.3 billion and employs approximately 115,000 employees with sales and services in more than 100 countries. The company is a leader in cardiac care, acute care and home healthcare, energy efficient lighting solutions and new lighting applications, as well as male shaving and grooming and oral healthcare. News from Philips is located at www.philips.com/newscenter.

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SOURCE Royal Philips