Bayer ( OTCPK:BAYZF ) ( OTCPK:BAYRY ) acquired strategic imaging artificial intelligence (AI) platform provider Blackford Analysis to strengthen its radiology and medical imaging portfolio.
Blackford, which has a presence in the U.K. and the U.S., provides infrastructure and access to a clinical application (ClinApp) ecosystem focused on imaging and analytics.
Bayer said the acquisition is part of its strategy to drive innovation in radiology, including the development and adoption of AI within the clinical workflow, to improve patient care and advance the company's position in digital medical imaging.
"Adding Blackford and its AI technology to our radiology portfolio secures Bayer an excellent position in the fastest growing segment within the overall global radiology industry," said Stefan Oelrich, member of the board of management, Bayer and President of Bayer's Pharmaceutical division.
The acquisition follows a development and license agreement between the two companies in 2020 that led to Bayer's recently launched medical imaging platform Calantic Digital Solutions.
The German conglomerate noted that Blackford will continue to operate as an independent organization on an arm's length basis to preserve its entrepreneurial culture.
The transaction is expected to close later this year, subject to closing conditions.
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Bayer acquires AI imaging company Blackford Analysis to bolster radiology portfolio