SOUTH AFRICA — Life Healthcare, one of South Africa’s leading private hospital groups, has made a significant move by acquiring the non-clinical operations of TheraMed Nuclear Benoni, a prominent player in the field of nuclear medicine and molecular imaging.
This strategic acquisition bolsters Life Healthcare’s commitment to advancing healthcare services, particularly in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases like organ dysfunction and cancer.
Located adjacent to Life The Glynnwood Hospital, TheraMed Nuclear specializes in cutting-edge medical scanning services.
Their arsenal includes advanced technologies like positron emission tomography (PET) and computed tomography (CT), known as PET-CT, as well as single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and computed tomography (CT), known as SPECT-CT.
These technologies provide a comprehensive view of both the structural and cellular functions of cells and tissues in a single scan.
The acquisition of TheraMed Nuclear Benoni marks the completion of a significant transaction that began with the acquisition of two other TheraMed sites in Midstream and Honeydew in June 2023.
This move aligns with Life Healthcare’s broader strategy, as outlined in its 2022 integrated report, to advance oncology care.
Moreover, this acquisition complements Life Healthcare’s collaboration with AXIM, announced in 2021, aimed at developing two cyclotrons in South Africa.
Cyclotrons are pivotal in supplying radiotracers for nuclear research and radiation treatment, primarily benefiting cancer patients.
Life Healthcare’s purchase of TheraMed Nuclear is an integral part of its comprehensive South African diagnostics strategy, encompassing diagnostic imaging and nuclear medicine.
Notably, TheraMed Nuclear operates three sites in Gauteng in collaboration with one of South Africa’s largest multisite diagnostic radiology practices, ensuring the continued provision of associated clinical radiology services.
CEO of Life Healthcare South Africa, Adam Pyle, emphasized the significance of this acquisition, stating, “The acquisition of the non-clinical operations means that Life Healthcare now owns and manages the infrastructure and equipment and employs the radiographers and support staff.”
At the same time, the nuclear physicians and radiologists continue to provide clinical services in their independent capacities.
This technological advancement holds promise for clinicians, offering enhanced accuracy in the management and treatment of diseases, especially cancer.
PET-CT scans utilize low-dose radioactive nuclear medicine injectables (radiopharmaceuticals) to assess cellular activity and metabolic processes in various parts of the body.
These scans provide more detailed insights into cancer or abnormal areas compared to traditional X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans.
Life Healthcare’s Group Chief Medical Officer, Mark Ferreira, highlighted the importance of PET-CT scans in clinical practice, stating, “PET-CT scans are instrumental in helping clinicians determine the nature of tumours, the extent of cancer’s spread, and the efficacy of treatment.”
This information aids in precise cancer management, preventing both over-treatment and under-treatment.
Studies have shown that PET-CT scans can positively impact patient outcomes, improve survival rates, and reduce the overall cost of care.
For all the latest healthcare industry news from Africa and the World, subscribe to our NEWSLETTER, and YouTube Channel, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn, and like us on Facebook.
