Gurgaon-based health care firm Artemis Health Sciences Pvt. Ltd and Royal Philips Electronics plan to start three research studies using advanced medical technologies in a bid to find more efficient and cheaper ways of diagnosing diseases. Data from the studies will add to Philips research database while Artemis hopes to be able to use the high-end imaging and scan machines to detect blockages in the heart at a fraction of the cost and spot tumours early. The research collaboration is the first of its kind, said Kushagra Kataria, utive director at Artemis, who sealed the partnership 10 months ago and is readying clinical trials now. Artemis utive director Kushagra Kataria.A study done by consultant Ernst and Young for trade body Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry estimates the market in India for medical devices and equipment will more than double to $4.98 billion (Rs19,450 crore) by 2012 from $2.18 billion last year. Of this, radiology equipment such as MRI (short for magnetic resonance imaging), computed tomography or CT scan and ultrasound machines will account for a sixth of the market, the study said. Indian medical laws currently do not mandate testing of diagnostic devices here. Yet, given that “India has the largest variety of disease patterns, R&D on diagnostic devices is needed for Indians,” said Anjan Bose, senior director and business head, medical systems, Philips Electronics India Ltd. (In India, a proposed central drug authority will have powers for approving diagnostic equipment as well.) Philips is talking with health care chains about partnerships and Artemis, too, will look out for tie-ups with drug, biotech and medical device firms. The first study to be launched will be on heart patients. Philips’ 64 slice CT scan

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