Siemens Healthineers' partnership sets sights on point-of-care testing for athletes
Through a new partnership, Siemens Healthineers is aiming to help medical teams make faster, more informed care decisions for athletes competing in demanding endurance events.
The medical technology giant recently teamed with World Athletics to bring point-of-care testing to large athletic events. This includes access to its epoc Blood Analysis System and the Acuson Sequoia ultrasound system, both of which provide vital insight into athletes’ health nearly instantly.
The on-site testing these tools provide could be especially useful in remote settings, where endurance competitions often take place. Point-of-care imaging can be used to determine if athletes might be treated effectively on-site or whether they require transfer to a medical center for additional care.
“The benefit of point-of-care testing is being able to care for people in need wherever they are, as soon as possible, to make the biggest impact,” Bob Stowers, head of point of care diagnostics for Siemens Healthineers, said in a news release.
In 2025, the Acuson Sequoia ultrasound system was deployed at three large endurance events. It was used to address musculoskeletal issues for over 1,200 athletes and often reduced the need for hospital transfers. Its also minimized wait times for diagnoses and ensured athletes and their teams received quick, accurate information regarding the extent of their injuries.
Stéphane Bermon, MD, director of health and science at World Athletics, described this sort of point-of-care testing as a “game changer” for athletes, helping providers more effectively address heat- and hydration-related emergencies.
“This evidence generation will help support our effort to share best medical practice and standardize point-of-care testing across the world-renowned endurance events we support,” Bermon said.
Data acquired during athletic events will be used to inform the advancement of point-of-care imaging in the future, Siemens Healthineer noted.
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In addition to her background in journalism, Hannah also has patient-facing experience in clinical settings, having spent more than 12 years working as a registered rad tech. She began covering the medical imaging industry for Innovate Healthcare in 2021.