LG, traditionally known for its consumer electronics, is venturing deeper into the healthcare sector as a solutions provider rather than merely a display vendor. According to Jim Salamon, the national sales leader for LG’s medical division, the company is broadening its offerings to include products that enhance clinical workflows. This shift was highlighted during an interview at the Radiological Society of North America annual conference held recently in Chicago.
LG’s contributions extend beyond display systems, which assist surgeons and radiologists with improved visibility during procedures and scans. The company also produces lightweight laptops for mobile radiologists and nursing station units. Salamon emphasized that LG’s innovations are driven by direct feedback from clinicians, ensuring that the products address real clinical needs.
Innovations Tailored to Clinical Demands
In the surgical field, LG has made significant strides in image quality, transitioning from standard HD to 4K and now to mini-LED technologies. Salamon noted that enhancements in gamma and color ranges allow for more lifelike visualizations, providing clearer and more accurate representations of the human body. “Clinicians have expressed a desire for higher resolution images and colors that closely resemble what the human eye perceives,” he explained.
The demand for flexibility in workspaces is also shaping LG’s product development. Salamon remarked that an increasing number of radiologists are opting for remote work or require the ability to manage multiple tasks across different hospitals, some of which operate on varying PACS systems. To address this, LG has created workstations that consolidate multiple systems into a single diagnostic display. This approach supports the growing trend of home reading while ensuring that the hardware remains lightweight and portable.
Cost Efficiency and Integration in Digital Health
LG’s competitive edge in the crowded digital health market lies in its cost efficiency and integration capabilities. The company manufactures its own panels, which can lead to cost reductions for hospitals of approximately 20–30% compared to its competitors, according to Salamon. This is particularly significant as large healthcare systems often need to replace numerous workstations on a rotating basis.
Another key aspect of LG’s strategy is the design of products that are IT-agnostic. Salamon explained that the goal is to seamlessly integrate LG’s technology into existing healthcare standards without imposing proprietary requirements. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, LG remains committed to exploring new technologies that cater to the changing needs of clinicians. Current prototypes in development include innovative curved display monitors and 3D imaging tools aimed at enhancing diagnostic precision.
While the precise impact of these advancements on clinical practice and patient care remains to be fully assessed, Salamon underscored the importance of listening to clinicians and adapting quickly based on their insights. This responsive approach is viewed as essential for creating impactful healthcare technology that meets the demands of today’s medical professionals.