The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) and GE Healthcare are collaborating to develop 25 cancer centers in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East over the next 10 years. UPMC will provide its cancer expertise while GE Healthcare provides the equipment for scanning, generating mammograms, and monitoring internal organs during operations.

The agreement leverages UPMC's strength in developing and operating oncology centers and GE's experience as a global provider of medical equipment. UPMC’s cancer program serves 30,000 newly diagnosed patients annually through more than 40 centers in western Pennsylvania. UPMC also manages two cancer centers in Ireland.

GE Healthcare will conduct assessments to determine which markets are most appropriate for cancer centers. Key factors will include the availability of a suitable local partner, regulatory requirements, and patient volumes. After selecting a market, UPMC will negotiate definitive agreements and take responsibility with local partners for the construction, ownership, and operation of the centers. The first centers are slated to open in Germany, Turkey, Greece, and South Korea.

Earlier this year, UPMC and GE Healthcare announced the creation of Omnyx LLC, a join venture for developing and marketing digital pathology systems.