The partnership revolves around multiple areas of cooperation, including the introduction of a state-of-the-art, automated, AI-based image analysis workflow for digital pathology built upon Visiopharm’s Oncotopix® and Qualitopix® platforms. This comprehensive workflow includes automatic slide quality assessment, continuous stain quality assessment, and biomarker quantification with the overarching objective of enhancing precision within laboratory operations.
A key initiative of this partnership is the establishment of the UMCG as a reference center. This center is not just a hub of technological innovation but also a living showcase demonstrating the significant impacts of AI-driven precision pathology on the standardization of diagnostic processes and the subsequent elevation of patient care standards. The UMCG is committed to not only adopting these advanced practices but also to meticulously quantifying their benefits and sharing these insights with the global clinical pathology community. The partnership with Visiopharm is in complete alignment with UMCG’s objective of data-driven research, data quality, and, ultimately, improved patient outcomes.
"By joining forces with Visiopharm, we are set to demonstrate the concrete benefits and transformative power of AI in precision pathology," said Dr. Bert van der Vegt, Clinical Pathologist and lead of the Digital Computational Pathology Unit at UMCG. "As a reference center, we're excited about the opportunity to share our journey and experiences, showcasing the tangible improvements in standardization and patient care that this technology brings."
Visiopharm, a trusted name in the field of digital pathology, is equally enthusiastic about this partnership. "UMCG's dedication to advancing precision pathology, and thereby optimal treatment decisions, perfectly aligns with our corporate mission. We look forward to our partnership and the opportunity to further document the benefits for diagnostic pathology laboratories seeking to implement precision pathology," commented Dirk Vossen, Chief Diagnostic Officer at Visiopharm.
For clinical pathology laboratories considering the adoption of digital pathology, this private-partnership represents the epitome of innovation and progress. “UMCG and Visiopharm are working collaboratively to usher in transformative changes by offering enhanced data accuracy, operational efficiency, and improved patient care” adds Jacko Duker, project leader Digital and Computational Pathology at UMCG.
Visiopharm® is a leading provider of AI-driven precision pathology software for research and diagnostics. In research, it is a technology leader providing tools that help scientists, pathologists, and image analysis experts produce accurate data for all types of tissue-based research. In diagnostics, it is a leader in clinical applications, with no less than nine diagnostic algorithms cleared under IVDR for EU and UK customers. These applications provide diagnostic decision support and can be easily activated and integrated into existing lab workflows.
Founded in 2002, Visiopharm is privately owned and operates internationally with over 750 customer accounts in more than 40 countries. The company’s headquarters are located in Denmark’s Medicon Valley, with offices in Sweden, the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, and the United States, and local representation in France and China.
The University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG) is one of the largest hospitals in the Netherlands. More than 12,000 employees work together on care, research, training, and education with the common goal of building the future of health. The UMCG offers complex, academic hospital care. It strives to do this better every day, constantly pushing the boundaries of diagnostics and treatments. The UMCG makes use of knowledge, research, and innovative solutions, as well as offering future-oriented education and training for healthcare professionals. Long-term partnerships build a healthcare landscape that is ready for the future.
The UMCG researchers are pioneers in research who work on relevant research topics and are provided with a broad range of top-notch research facilities. The groundbreaking work of leading national and international researchers makes the UMCG a pioneering center for medical research.
The UMCG Innovation Center has been instrumental in setting up the partnership, facilitated the work on innovative pathology solutions, and continues to support the collaboration.
