Alberta invests $800M in Siemens’ cancer technologies

EDMONTON – Alberta’s government is partnering with Siemens Healthineers and the Alberta Cancer Foundation to improve health outcomes for cancer patients. Alberta will invest $800 million over eight years to support early detection, reduce wait times and establish Alberta as a leader in cancer research and innovation.

In addition, Siemens Healthineers will invest $175 million to support establishing two centres of excellence as well as research.

Danielle Smith (pictured), premier of Alberta said: “This investment will position our province as a leader in cancer care by leveraging artificial intelligence, attracting healthcare professionals, and supporting researchers in developing innovative cancer care solutions. From prevention to detection to treatment, we are ensuring Albertans facing cancer receive the best care available.”

Alberta’s population is growing and aging, cancer cases are rising, and patients are facing longer wait times. To address these issues, Siemens Healthineers will replace existing oncology treatment and imaging equipment while introducing innovative technologies along with consulting and additional solutions to improve overall healthcare delivery. This work will begin, and start benefiting Albertans, almost immediately.

Arthur Kaindl, head of Varian at Siemens Healthineers, said: “Together, we will advance care for Albertan cancer patients through AI, education, research, and innovation. By addressing the entire cancer care continuum, we are working toward a world without fear of cancer.”

Adriana LaGrange, Alberta’s minister of health said: “This partnership will reduce wait times and patient expenses while increasing capacity across the healthcare system. It will also provide a significant return on investment into targeted oncology areas like education, research, artificial intelligence and machine learning to better support patients and our workforce.”

The Value Partnership will create two centers of excellence in cancer care: one focused on oncology training and one focused on artificial intelligence and machine learning.

In addition, a medical-research and innovation fund managed by the Alberta Cancer Foundation will be established to attract and retain global talent. In total, Siemens Healthineers will invest $175 million in these three projects.

“We’re proud to be part of this transformative initiative, advancing outcomes and expanding access to care for cancer patients in Alberta while making a positive, lasting impact on communities across the province,” said Sevket On, head of Canada at Siemens Healthineers.

Wendy Beauchesne, chief executive officer of Alberta Cancer Foundation, said: “This is a major leap forward for cancer care in Alberta and will fuel vital cancer research. We’re proud to be a partner in moving the needle here at home and a catalyst for bringing more effective, personalized treatments to patients sooner.”