'It's a life science powerhouse'
says David Furst, Director Life Science Industry, Israel Export and International Cooperation Institute
Israeli physicians, scientists, researchers and engineers have propelled the country's medical device industry to the leading edge of innovation and creativity, spanning all fields of medicine.
Quick facts:
l Israel is considered to be the second largest supplier of medical device solutions worldwide.
l Israel ranks number one for medical device patents per capita (number 4 in absolute figures).
l The country is home to over 900 life science companies; 55% of these produce medical devices.
Israel’s medical device industry receives strong support from the country’s highly sophisticated and internationally renowned electronics industry. Many of this industry’s advanced technologies, especially those related to electro-optics and lasers, find vital applications in medical devices. Furthermore, as a small country, Israel’s tight network of universities, research institutions and medical centres, and the creative fusion with industry, foster cooperation and the flow of ideas. This enables novel and innovative technologies to reach physicians, and their patients, faster than anywhere else in the world.
Several global medical corporations have found Israeli companies to be attractive business partners. Israeli companies have proven excellence in R&D, and in implementing breakthrough technologies in the medical device industry. Some of the leading multinationals holding equity positions in Israel include GE Medical, Philips, Siemens, Boston Scientific, Johnson & Johnson and Medtronic.
Key segments in the medical device industry include disposable and implantable devices, diagnostics, imaging, drug delivery, monitoring and telemedicine.
29.10.2008
