Siemens Medical Solutions Diagnostics Introduces MicroScan WalkAway

DEERFIELD, Ill., Dec. 20 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Siemens Medical Solutions Diagnostics today announced the introduction of the MicroScan(R) WalkAway(R) plus Systems for mid- and high-volume clinical diagnostic microbiology laboratories.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070904/SIEMENSLOGO )

The systems are the only instruments in the market that offer simultaneous automation of overnight, rapid and specialty panels that test for both gram negative and gram positive bacteria. The WalkAway plus Systems also offer advanced automation features that improve laboratory productivity by decreasing system maintenance activity. The two new instrument models - a 40- panel capacity model for medium-volume laboratories and a 96-panel capacity model for high-volume laboratories - will replace the current WalkAway SI 40 and 96 Systems.

“We remain committed to addressing the challenges of today’s clinical laboratory,” said Jim Reid-Anderson, president and CEO, Siemens Medical Solutions Diagnostics. “This new innovation for the microbiology laboratory allows customers to improve laboratory workflow and productivity while helping them to continue advancing the quality of patient care in their facilities.”

The Siemens’ MicroScan technology was introduced as the first advanced technology based on the sound microbiology principles of true minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) testing. This principle remains the most sensitive method to determine bacteria’s susceptibility to antibiotics. The new WalkAway plus Systems combine proven MIC technology with new automated features, including automated maintenance and dial-up system diagnostics capability.

Siemens Medical Solutions Diagnostics has nearly 60 MicroScan panels of tests, with up-to-date antibiotics including overnight, rapid and specialty panels. The Company was the first to offer an automated identification and susceptibility testing system cleared for improved detection of the emerging resistant bacterium Vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (VRSA).

About Siemens Medical Solutions Diagnostics

Siemens Medical Solutions Diagnostics is the leading clinical diagnostics provider in the world. The company offers healthcare providers the broadest range of diagnostic products and services that are used for diagnosing medical conditions, monitoring patient therapy and providing quality health care. Siemens’ comprehensive portfolio of solutions and highly responsive service are designed to improve clinical outcomes, streamline workflow and enhance the operational efficiency of clinical laboratories around the world. Visit www.siemens.com/diagnostics.

About Siemens Medical Solutions

Siemens Medical Solutions is one of the world’s largest suppliers to the healthcare industry. The company is a renowned medical solutions provider with core competence and innovative strength in diagnostic and therapeutic technologies as well as in knowledge engineering, including information technology and system integration. With its laboratory diagnostics acquisitions, Siemens Medical Solutions will be the first fully integrated diagnostics company, bringing together imaging and lab diagnostics, therapy, and healthcare information technology solutions, supplemented by consulting and support services. The company delivers solutions across the entire continuum of care -- from prevention and early detection, to diagnosis, therapy and care. Siemens Medical Solutions employs more than 49,000 people worldwide and operates in 130 countries. According to IFRS, in the fiscal year 2007 (Sept. 30), Siemens Medical Solutions reported sales of euro 9.85 billion, orders of euro 10.27 billion, and group profit of euro 1.32 billion (preliminary figures, unaudited). Further information can be found by visiting http://www.siemens.com/medical.

CONTACT: Amanda Naiman, Siemens Medical Solutions, +1-610-448-4531,
amanda.naiman@siemens.com

Web site: http://www.usa.siemens.com/medical/

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