SKMC becomes regional showcase for Philips' Ambient Experience Cath Lab

The agreement will see Philips supplying and installing a Cath Lab solution which will include the Allura Xper FD 20/10 Witt, Philips' Hemodynamic system to SKMC. The site will be operational in August 2008.

The hospital's Department of Cardiac Sciences is an ultra-modern and all inclusive centre of excellence which provides cardiac services and specialties, including non-invasive Cardiology, interventional Cardiology, Electrophysiology, and Cardiac Surgery.

The department consists of seven divisions, including Adult Cardiology which has distinguished itself within the region by providing 24/7 primary angioplasty, electronic reporting solutions in invasive and non-invasive cardiology, and Electrophysiology studies and ablations. It is a testament to the commitment of SKMC, Abu Dhabi Health Services Company - SEHA and Cleveland Clinic to champion the on-going development of an accessible, comprehensive, sustainable, and fully integrated cycle of care for the population of the UAE.

Philips' Ambient Experience integrates architecture, design and enabling technologies, such as lighting, sound, projection and RFID, to allow patients to personalize their environment and wrap themselves in a relaxing ambience. The design also eliminates unnecessary physical barriers in the imaging suite for better patient and staff interaction. By installing the Ambient Experience Cath Lab, SKMC will be the first hospital in Abu Dhabi to be able to provide its patients with a more comfortable and personalised environment during a traditionally anxious surgical procedure.

The Allura Xper FD 20/10 bi-plane imaging system offers advanced positioning capabilities and includes integrated 3D imaging for intricate neurovascular procedures. Its technology allows clinicians to see the smallest of vessels and optimizes workflow by adjusting to individual needs. The system can also improve treatment planning through providing valuable 3D-vessel information in 'real-time' and can reduce procedure time, dose and contrast with its technology that allows teams to navigate through complex vasculature quickly and with ease.

The Sheikh Khalifa Medical City provides a network of comprehensive health care facilities and services for the Island of Abu Dhabi. The continuous development at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, being managed by Cleveland Clinic, demonstrates the commitment of the Abu Dhabi Health Services Company - SEHA to improve the delivery of healthcare and provide medical treatment, services and technology that are at the highest standards available around the world.

Commenting on the new agreement Dr Scott Strong, Acting CEO of Sheikh Khalifa Medical City said:

'With its combination of technology leadership and focus on the needs of the patient, our new Cath Lab is rightly being recognized as a groundbreaking installation in the region. We're looking forward to sharing insights on how we're improving the experience of both our physicians and our patients with our peers in the region.'

Dr. Wael Almahmeed, Chair of Adult Cardiology said:

'The new ambient cardiac cath lab will be another step to fulfilling our vision of leading the way in cardiovascular care.'

Dr. Nazar Albustani Director of Invasive Cardiology added:

'The new ambient experience cardiac cath lab will add to our excellence in Adult Interventional Cardiology by improving efficiency and patient comfort.'

'Hospitals can be at a competitive advantage if their patients' experience is pleasant, which is why we've create an experience that helps relax the patient,' commented Diederik Zeven, General Manager Middle East for Philips Healthcare.

'By incorporating leading-edge design elements, advanced medical technology, sophisticated lighting and consumer-friendly electronics, the Philips Ambient Experience creates a soothing and pleasing environment for hospital patients of all ages,' he added.

Demonstrating the value of the Ambient Experience
The Philips Ambient Experience was conceived on the premise of providing a positive environment for patients and healthcare professionals to enhance clinical processes and patient care. As part of the company's focus on ways people and technology can interact in a more comfortable, natural way, Philips paid special attention to patient-friendly environments for healthcare facilities.

Philips works with hospitals and healthcare facilities to customize ambient design aspects around their specific desires and needs. Ambient Experience also helps set hospitals apart from their competitors, allowing them to attract and retain not only patients, but also talented professionals.

Feedback from clinicians who have used the technology indicates that providing a positive environment makes a real difference for the patients. It speeds up the procedure as patients are more comfortable and relaxed and in some case it reduces the need for sedation - in particular among children.