Respect for People Everywhere
Using the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights as our precedent, Canon Medical Systems respects the human rights of all stakeholders involved in our business activities, including employees and business partners.
Policy on People
The Canon Group Human Rights Policy is based on its corporate philosophy of Kyosei - living and working together for the common good. This philosophy supports the belief that all people can live harmoniously and work together to contribute to a prosperous society. Respect for and protection of human rights is deeply embedded into all of Canon's policies and procedures.
We respect internationally recognized human rights, including prohibition of child labor, prohibition of forced labor and unreasonable restrictions on movement, prohibition of overwork, and respect for freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining. We undertake measures to conduct due diligence (DD) and develop and operate redress mechanisms where necessary. And we also carry out educational activities and engage in dialogue with stakeholders.
We respect internationally recognized human rights, including prohibition of child labor, prohibition of forced labor and unreasonable restrictions on movement, prohibition of overwork, and respect for freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining. We undertake measures to conduct due diligence (DD) and develop and operate redress mechanisms where necessary. And we also carry out educational activities and engage in dialogue with stakeholders.
Working to High Standards
Canon Group companies created the Canon Group Code of Conduct in 2017 to establish standards for its executives and employees to follow in their daily work. Canon Medical Systems has also created its own Standards of Conduct. Both of these rulebooks underpin the foundation of our daily work and prioritize life, safety, and compliance.
Within Canon Medical Systems Group, human rights initiatives are managed and promoted by our own human rights officers, legal, human resources, and procurement departments.
Within Canon Medical Systems Group, human rights initiatives are managed and promoted by our own human rights officers, legal, human resources, and procurement departments.
Addressing Concerns
We also have a human rights response plan in place to address any concerns about human rights that also extends to our suppliers. Through this, any important matters can be swiftly reported and appropriate measures taken.
The Canon Medical Systems Group has established internal reporting hotlines (Risk Hotline), through which employees can report specific human rights concerns if they arise. We promote awareness of the reporting desk through our intranet and training. In addition, we have developed a website for external stakeholders that might have human rights concerns (Clean Partner Line).
The privacy and anonymity of whistleblowers is protected both inside and outside the company. Any reports are investigated, facts determined and appropriate action taken if required to correct any problem and prevent it from happening again.
The results of our efforts in addressing concerns are evaluated annually and reported to the CEO and Board of Directors through our Risk Compliance Committee.
The Canon Medical Systems Group has established internal reporting hotlines (Risk Hotline), through which employees can report specific human rights concerns if they arise. We promote awareness of the reporting desk through our intranet and training. In addition, we have developed a website for external stakeholders that might have human rights concerns (Clean Partner Line).
The privacy and anonymity of whistleblowers is protected both inside and outside the company. Any reports are investigated, facts determined and appropriate action taken if required to correct any problem and prevent it from happening again.
The results of our efforts in addressing concerns are evaluated annually and reported to the CEO and Board of Directors through our Risk Compliance Committee.
Ensuring Continuous Compliance
We continuously monitor compliance with the Canon Group Human Rights Policy, and continually improve identification and evaluation methods for human rights due diligence. This helps us review and assess our human rights initiatives, alongside consideration of social demands, dialogue with stakeholders, and the business status of Canon Medical Systems.
Proactive in Protecting People
We maintain zero tolerance for "forced labor" and "child labor" within our group's primary suppliers, including domestic and overseas suppliers.
Through our human rights due diligence system, we identify negative impacts on human rights that occur through our business activities, and work to prevent, reduce, and otherwise correct them.
In addition, measures taken to reduce potential risks in the supply chain include the use of the Supplier Code of Conduct by our production bases to ensure thorough compliance with procurement policies.
Monitoring of the status of compliance with our ethics standards is conducted through annual ethics surveys.
Canon Medical Systems Group discloses information in accordance with the Modern Slavery Act, which requires companies to confirm that their companies and supply chains are free of risks of forced labor, human trafficking, and child labor and to publish annual reports.
Through our human rights due diligence system, we identify negative impacts on human rights that occur through our business activities, and work to prevent, reduce, and otherwise correct them.
In addition, measures taken to reduce potential risks in the supply chain include the use of the Supplier Code of Conduct by our production bases to ensure thorough compliance with procurement policies.
Monitoring of the status of compliance with our ethics standards is conducted through annual ethics surveys.
Canon Medical Systems Group discloses information in accordance with the Modern Slavery Act, which requires companies to confirm that their companies and supply chains are free of risks of forced labor, human trafficking, and child labor and to publish annual reports.
Diversity and Inclusion
Based on the philosophy of "Kyosei", the Canon Group believes that it is important that each employee, with their diverse personalities and values, is able to demonstrate their full potential without being limited in their opportunities. Based on this idea, we respect diversity in culture, customs, language, and ethnicity, and actively promote fair recruitment and utilization of human resources, regardless of gender, age, disability, etc.
Sponsorship of Women Working in Interventional Radiology (IR)
Canon Medical Systems Canada is a proud sponsor of the Canadian Associations of Interventional Radiology (CAIR) ‘Women in IR’ Program. Currently, only one out of ten Canadian Interventional Radiologists are female. Through awareness, education, and promotion, CAIR members, along with Canon’s assistance, aim to change that. In 2023, the Women in IR program included a cocktail reception and a webinar.
Canon’s ambassador to the Program, Tara Utley, Canon Medical Systems Canada’s Business Unit Manager, X-ray was part of both initiatives. Tara started her career as an IR technologist and is passionate about seeing females flourish in this specialty.
“During the cocktail reception in May 2023 at the CAIR annual meeting, female members and potential members got the opportunity to learn, share, and converse about the profession", she said.
And during the ‘Women in IR’ webinar in June 2023, Canadian female IR doctors gave their perspectives of the IR profession.
“Together, we outlined the benefits and challenges of the profession from a female perspective. The five speakers provided encouraging words to the 41 attendees to the audience of students and interns but also the reality. I was also able to provide some words about the Program and Canon’s sponsorship,” remarked Tara.
Canon’s ambassador to the Program, Tara Utley, Canon Medical Systems Canada’s Business Unit Manager, X-ray was part of both initiatives. Tara started her career as an IR technologist and is passionate about seeing females flourish in this specialty.
“During the cocktail reception in May 2023 at the CAIR annual meeting, female members and potential members got the opportunity to learn, share, and converse about the profession", she said.
And during the ‘Women in IR’ webinar in June 2023, Canadian female IR doctors gave their perspectives of the IR profession.
“Together, we outlined the benefits and challenges of the profession from a female perspective. The five speakers provided encouraging words to the 41 attendees to the audience of students and interns but also the reality. I was also able to provide some words about the Program and Canon’s sponsorship,” remarked Tara.
Image of Tara Utley (left) and Alanna Supersad (CAIR committee member, IR Intern)
Fairness for Everyone
We provide equal opportunities based on ability regardless of gender and ensure fair treatment. We continue to formulate action plans based on relevant legal tools, for example, in Japan, as stipulated by the Act on Promotion of Women's Participation and Advancement in the Workplace.
The Canon Medical Systems Group launched the ‘Canon Medical Women's Network’ in 2023, which became a global team in 2024, with the aim of influencing change towards an inclusive and diverse organizational culture inside the Canon Medical Group through sharing role models and building networks among women.
The Canon Medical Systems Group launched the ‘Canon Medical Women's Network’ in 2023, which became a global team in 2024, with the aim of influencing change towards an inclusive and diverse organizational culture inside the Canon Medical Group through sharing role models and building networks among women.
Employment of people with disabilities
Canon Medical Systems Corporation works proactively to promote diversity and create an inclusive environment for people from all backgrounds. As part of this initiative, it has partnered with an indoor hydroponic vegetable farm to bring employment opportunities to individuals with disabilities.
Crops harvested from the farm are donated to a children's cafeteria, which provides free or inexpensive meals to children, their guardians, and local residents in need. The cafeteria is located nearby Canon Medical Systems Corporation Headquarters.
In 2023, the farm employed two farm managers and six individuals with intellectual or mental disabilities. The farm managers strive to create a supportive environment for the employees and aim to expand the range of tasks they can perform. All employees enjoy working together, feel rewarded by the harvests, and are pleased to contribute to the children's cafeteria.
Crops harvested from the farm are donated to a children's cafeteria, which provides free or inexpensive meals to children, their guardians, and local residents in need. The cafeteria is located nearby Canon Medical Systems Corporation Headquarters.
In 2023, the farm employed two farm managers and six individuals with intellectual or mental disabilities. The farm managers strive to create a supportive environment for the employees and aim to expand the range of tasks they can perform. All employees enjoy working together, feel rewarded by the harvests, and are pleased to contribute to the children's cafeteria.
Creating a Healthy and Safe Workplace
Canon positions health and safety at the core of corporate management and believes that: ‘There is no business without safety’. In addition, Canon Medical Systems actively promotes health management on the basis of our ‘Health First’ guidelines, because we have a strong conviction that: ‘A healthy body and a healthy mind are essential in order to do a good job’.
Canon Medical Systems has established a Central Safety and Health Committee, which formulates central safety and health activity policies and plans, and promotes initiatives that can help prevent industrial accidents, maintain and promote personal health, support traffic safety, fire prevention and disaster prevention, and create a comfortable workplace. In addition, our labor department and management work together to create and maintain a workplace environment in which everyone can function with peace of mind, for example by stipulating health and safety in employment contracts. Canon Medical Systems Corporation and its domestic group companies have established a safety and health committee at each site. Overseas, we are promoting group-wide initiatives centered on our production bases, which take into account the circumstances of each region and group company.
Canon Medical Systems has established a Central Safety and Health Committee, which formulates central safety and health activity policies and plans, and promotes initiatives that can help prevent industrial accidents, maintain and promote personal health, support traffic safety, fire prevention and disaster prevention, and create a comfortable workplace. In addition, our labor department and management work together to create and maintain a workplace environment in which everyone can function with peace of mind, for example by stipulating health and safety in employment contracts. Canon Medical Systems Corporation and its domestic group companies have established a safety and health committee at each site. Overseas, we are promoting group-wide initiatives centered on our production bases, which take into account the circumstances of each region and group company.
Canon Medical Systems Occupational Safety and Health Management
The Canon Medical Systems has obtained ISO45001 certification, an international standard, and conducts safety and health activities based on the requirements of the occupational safety and health management system.
| Number of companies with ISO45001 certification
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Five companies
・Canon Medical Systems Corp. ・Canon Medical Systems Asia ・Canon Medical Systems ANZ ・Canon Medical Systems UK ・Olea Medical |
|---|
Preventing Accidents
If a work-related accident occurs, we investigate the root cause and take measures to prevent recurrence through both education and equipment. Information about any accidents is promptly shared with group companies towards preventing similar accidents from happening again.
Healthy Minds
We are developing programs for our staff that combine four types of care (self-care, care provided by managers, care provided by industrial health staff, and care provided by external organizations) as well as mental wellbeing. We are also developing support mechanisms, including return-to-work programs, and training to improve the skills of human resources and health support personnel in areas such as mental health.
Canon Medical Systems' stress check participation rate has maintained a high level, reaching 96.3% in 2023. For people with high levels of stress, we provide individual support, such as health consultations in addition to interviews with industrial physicians. In addition, we distribute a ‘health report’ which shows the health status of each division based on group analysis, and we hold meetings with individual staff in their workplaces. We are also focused on providing mental health training for managers so that they can provide additional support to their teams in the workplace.
We conduct stress checks and follow-up for Japanese employees assigned overseas, just as we do in Japan, and work with local human resources personnel to implement mental health measures.
Canon Medical Systems' stress check participation rate has maintained a high level, reaching 96.3% in 2023. For people with high levels of stress, we provide individual support, such as health consultations in addition to interviews with industrial physicians. In addition, we distribute a ‘health report’ which shows the health status of each division based on group analysis, and we hold meetings with individual staff in their workplaces. We are also focused on providing mental health training for managers so that they can provide additional support to their teams in the workplace.
We conduct stress checks and follow-up for Japanese employees assigned overseas, just as we do in Japan, and work with local human resources personnel to implement mental health measures.
Engaging With Stakeholders
The OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Business Conduct emphasizes the importance of companies engaging with stakeholders to identify actual or potential negative impacts of their activities. Canon Medical Systems Group is guided by the business purpose "Made for Life," aiming to contribute to the advancement of medical care. The company's activities are based on relationships with various stakeholders, and it is vital to communicate ideas, listen to their voices, and engage in dialogue to deepen mutual understanding.
To achieve this, relevant departments of group companies worldwide serve as points of contact and strive for close communication with stakeholders. Issues are identified based on stakeholder feedback, and regional needs are addressed accordingly. Canon Medical has also established a point of contact on its website for inquiries from external stakeholders. Opinions and requests received are promptly shared with relevant departments for appropriate action.
The company is committed to finding solutions and sharing important global management matters with the entire group to resolve issues effectively.
To achieve this, relevant departments of group companies worldwide serve as points of contact and strive for close communication with stakeholders. Issues are identified based on stakeholder feedback, and regional needs are addressed accordingly. Canon Medical has also established a point of contact on its website for inquiries from external stakeholders. Opinions and requests received are promptly shared with relevant departments for appropriate action.
The company is committed to finding solutions and sharing important global management matters with the entire group to resolve issues effectively.
Social and cultural support activities
Community Activities
Extending Made for Life Beyond Human Lives
Veterinary healthcare presents a potential market for medical equipment. In the charity sphere, this might be another option to refurbishment or recycling. In 2023, Canon Medical Systems Asia developed an initiative that combined donation of medical equipment and veterinary healthcare by donation of an ultrasound to an avian hospital in Mandai Parks, Singapore.
"Mandai Parks approached us about the possibility of donating one of our ultrasounds to aid in specialized veterinary healthcare for its smaller birds. Fortunately, we were able to locate a system that, after a thorough quality check, met the requirements for donation. We believe it is our duty to protect the environment and conserve wildlife, and this donation allowed us to make a meaningful contribution. By extending the lifetime of our products, we are staying true to our corporate philosophy "Made for Life," and with this initiative we showed that our philosophy even goes beyond human lives. We are delighted to have made this possible together," said Hiroshi Tani (Managing Director) and Ms. Isabel Cheng (Senior Director, Partnership Development, Mandai Wildlife Reserve).
"Mandai Parks approached us about the possibility of donating one of our ultrasounds to aid in specialized veterinary healthcare for its smaller birds. Fortunately, we were able to locate a system that, after a thorough quality check, met the requirements for donation. We believe it is our duty to protect the environment and conserve wildlife, and this donation allowed us to make a meaningful contribution. By extending the lifetime of our products, we are staying true to our corporate philosophy "Made for Life," and with this initiative we showed that our philosophy even goes beyond human lives. We are delighted to have made this possible together," said Hiroshi Tani (Managing Director) and Ms. Isabel Cheng (Senior Director, Partnership Development, Mandai Wildlife Reserve).
Partnership With Assistance Dogs
In line with our enduring Made for Life philosophy, Canon Medical Systems ANZ Pty Limited extends its support beyond medical imaging to nurture resilient and thriving communities. One of our key partnerships is with Assistance Dogs Australia (ADA).
Since 2015, in collaboration with our service agreement customers, we proudly sponsor the training of assistance dogs. Our service philosophy, ‘service tailored to your needs’, echoes ADA's commitment to customizing dog training to meet the unique requirements of their clients. By sponsoring the training of six assistance dogs to date, Canon Medical remains committed to empowering individuals, reducing dependency on caregivers, and addressing social isolation. Together with ADA, we're dedicated to fostering a more inclusive and supportive world.
Assistance Dogs Australia is a leading non-profit organization, which plays a pivotal role in providing freedom and independence to both children and adults with disabilities. Their specialized training of Labradors and Golden Retrievers provides invaluable physical and emotional support, enhancing the lives of those with diverse needs.
Each assistance dog undergoes a rigorous 12–18-month training program, followed by advanced training at the National Training School. Training is meticulously tailored to the dog's personality, learning style, and the specific needs of their future companion. From retrieving dropped items to providing emotional support during anxiety episodes, these dogs are carefully prepared to serve their clients.
This service, offered free to clients, provides independence, self-esteem, improved health, and stronger relationships for individuals and families, resulting in more successful communities.
Since 2015, in collaboration with our service agreement customers, we proudly sponsor the training of assistance dogs. Our service philosophy, ‘service tailored to your needs’, echoes ADA's commitment to customizing dog training to meet the unique requirements of their clients. By sponsoring the training of six assistance dogs to date, Canon Medical remains committed to empowering individuals, reducing dependency on caregivers, and addressing social isolation. Together with ADA, we're dedicated to fostering a more inclusive and supportive world.
Assistance Dogs Australia is a leading non-profit organization, which plays a pivotal role in providing freedom and independence to both children and adults with disabilities. Their specialized training of Labradors and Golden Retrievers provides invaluable physical and emotional support, enhancing the lives of those with diverse needs.
Each assistance dog undergoes a rigorous 12–18-month training program, followed by advanced training at the National Training School. Training is meticulously tailored to the dog's personality, learning style, and the specific needs of their future companion. From retrieving dropped items to providing emotional support during anxiety episodes, these dogs are carefully prepared to serve their clients.
This service, offered free to clients, provides independence, self-esteem, improved health, and stronger relationships for individuals and families, resulting in more successful communities.
Tatum
Gordon
Faith
Supporting Art Workshops for Hospitalized Children
Canon Medical Systems France has been supporting the NOC! Nous on crée! Association for six years. This non-profit organization runs art workshops for hospitalized children with serious illnesses who face long hours of waiting between treatments. In 2023, Canon Medical Systems France sponsored the workshops during school vacation periods, as we believe that when living becomes complicated, creating becomes a necessity. The weeks of workshops are privileged moments of creation, eagerly awaited by the mostly young, hospitalized patients, their families, and healthcare people. These are precious moments of exchange that enable our students to come to the workshop every day and work a little differently than usual. The result is highly accomplished creations, imbued with patience and perseverance, which help them to blossom and feel valued. In addition to the workshops, we organized public events and exhibitions to showcase the creative work of our young artists.
Donating to Children’s Charities
Over the past 37 years, the Activities Committee of Canon (ACT) has been supporting local children's charities through a partnership with Orange County Social Services (OCSS) in the USA. It all started in 1986 with a bake sale that raised $631 and helped 10 children. Since then, employee donations from the auction have grown to over $407,500, assisting 2788 children in Orange County by providing clothes, shoes, food, and toys for the holidays.
Every year, ACT collaborates with Orange County Social Services to identify families in the local community who are in the greatest need of assistance. Nominations are submitted by OCSS, and the ACT committee selects the families that will receive the proceeds from the auction. The auction has become an enjoyable event for all our employees, and ACT has embraced technology. With the help of our IT department, our annual Halloween auction is now entirely online, and bids are updated in real-time. Once the auction is finished and the proceeds are calculated, ACT shoppers start buying clothing, coats, shoes, and grocery store gift cards. Additionally, we organize a toy drive to ensure that each child receives a toy for the holidays. All the gifts are wrapped and delivered directly to the family or their social worker.
Every year, ACT collaborates with Orange County Social Services to identify families in the local community who are in the greatest need of assistance. Nominations are submitted by OCSS, and the ACT committee selects the families that will receive the proceeds from the auction. The auction has become an enjoyable event for all our employees, and ACT has embraced technology. With the help of our IT department, our annual Halloween auction is now entirely online, and bids are updated in real-time. Once the auction is finished and the proceeds are calculated, ACT shoppers start buying clothing, coats, shoes, and grocery store gift cards. Additionally, we organize a toy drive to ensure that each child receives a toy for the holidays. All the gifts are wrapped and delivered directly to the family or their social worker.
OCSS:
“On behalf of Children & Family Services, we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Canon for the generous Christmas gifts that you donated to our clients. Your kindness and generosity have made the holiday season truly special for so many families. Thank you for spreading joy and warmth during what can be a difficult time in the lives of children and families.”
“On behalf of Children & Family Services, we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Canon for the generous Christmas gifts that you donated to our clients. Your kindness and generosity have made the holiday season truly special for so many families. Thank you for spreading joy and warmth during what can be a difficult time in the lives of children and families.”
Olea Cares
As a socially responsible company, Olea Medical continuously develops initiatives to make a difference in our communities. Through the Olea Cares program, we partner with organizations dedicated to sustainable development and the well-being of people worldwide. For example, in 2023, we supported organizations such as the FairEmbo project, which aims to reduce mortality due to hemorrhage in emerging countries. We also worked with Athelia Entreprendre in 2023, sponsoring two beehives located near our premises. Another organization we sponsored is Bivouac et Moi, an association that offers outdoor adventures in the French mountains to people who have recovered from cancer.
Internally, we have implemented Olea Flex, a social innovation contributing to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It’s a new way of working that allows each of us to define the days we physically come into work, providing autonomy and harmony between professional and personal lives. In 2023, we also engaged in prevention and awareness-raising on environmental issues. Additionally, some employees have benefited from training, including the creation of a climate fresco.
Education, academic support, and joint research
Supporting Research
In 2023, Canon Medical Systems ANZ continued to collaborate with several leading clinical institutions and clinicians to assist with the development of improved clinical pathways for patients. All our Partnership Programs (CMPP) activities have an underlying link to our ‘Made for Life’ philosophy, as they all represent projects which seek to enhance the lives of patients through improved clinical outcomes driven by better diagnosis and treatment.
Contribution to Liver Research in Partnership with Fiona Stanley Hospital and the Raine Study, Australia
A key outcome in 2023 from our partnership with Fiona Stanley Hospital, Australia, was the development of an education and training video series consisting of a blend of theory and practical scanning across 24 modules. This teaching tool will provide training opportunities for sonographers, radiologists and more broadly help build awareness about using ultrasound as an effective non-invasive modality for the liver. Canon Medical Systems ANZ established a collaborative research agreement in 2016 and has continuously supported the radiology department at Fiona Stanley Hospital with the latest commercially available premium level ultrasound.
In 2023, Canon Medical Systems ANZ also initiated a partnership with the Raine Study group at University of Western Australia and Fiona Stanley Hospital. The Raine Study is a population that will provide knowledge that potentially identifies characteristics and modifying factors for adults at risk of complications of fatty liver at a stage where relevant interventions can improve health. Established in 1989, The Raine Study is one of the largest prospective cohorts of pregnancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood to be carried out anywhere in the world. As a multi-generational group, it provides a unique population with vast health data, physical assessments, biological, and genetic data from frequent assessments over more than three decades. This makes it the ideal population in which to examine the hepatic and cardiometabolic significance of fatty liver. There is no other community-based cohort with the length of follow up and detailed longitudinal characterization of participants as the Raine cohort.
In 2023, Canon Medical Systems ANZ also initiated a partnership with the Raine Study group at University of Western Australia and Fiona Stanley Hospital. The Raine Study is a population that will provide knowledge that potentially identifies characteristics and modifying factors for adults at risk of complications of fatty liver at a stage where relevant interventions can improve health. Established in 1989, The Raine Study is one of the largest prospective cohorts of pregnancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood to be carried out anywhere in the world. As a multi-generational group, it provides a unique population with vast health data, physical assessments, biological, and genetic data from frequent assessments over more than three decades. This makes it the ideal population in which to examine the hepatic and cardiometabolic significance of fatty liver. There is no other community-based cohort with the length of follow up and detailed longitudinal characterization of participants as the Raine cohort.
Contributing to Heart Procedures
Canon Medical Systems ANZ have had a long association with Waikato Hospital in the Midlands of North Island, New Zealand. In 2023, Canon partnered with medical staff at Waikato Hospital to develop AI-based imaging technology for improving complex structural heart procedures, such as paravalvular leak repair and mitral clipping. The technology will bring increased accuracy for echo fusion together with reduced examination time resulting in lower radiation dose and contrast usage.
In addition, Canon’s Dynamic Device Stabilization is a new type of stent enhancement technology utilizing AI that will bring improved stent visualization throughout any Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) procedure resulting in better outcomes for patients.
In addition, Canon’s Dynamic Device Stabilization is a new type of stent enhancement technology utilizing AI that will bring improved stent visualization throughout any Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) procedure resulting in better outcomes for patients.
Improving Access to Healthcare
Collaboration with RMI (Remote Medical Innovations), the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital in Queensland and Canon Medical Systems ANZ continued in 2023. The objective of the collaboration was to bring quality ultrasound examinations to remote and rural locations where these services are not available, using a collaborative robot. This robot, operated by health workers in Brisbane, is scanning patients' hearts more than 1,000 kilometers away in the Queensland outback. Sonographers sitting in a room at the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital (RBWH) operate a handheld controller - like those used to play computer games - to manipulate the robot on patients in remote areas.
RMI has developed a robotic system that allows Canon’s Aplio i700 ultrasound system to be remotely operated and controlled from a central location by specialists cardiac and general sonographers. The system utilizes Canon’s remote operating tablet to control the system commands. This product is designed to deliver a mobile, cost-effective, safe and rapid solution that seeks to overcome the inadequacies of existing processes. While this technology has a broad application, the initial focus will be to enable the capability for specialist services to be provided viably and efficiently to regional and remote areas of Australia, via remote operation.
In addition, because the robot incorporates a haptic controller requiring minimal force input, it provides sonographers with the ability to undertake existing “in-room” ultrasounds with limited physical impact and consequently a significant reduction in the adverse occupational health and safety (OH&S) outcomes currently experienced. 85% of sonographers experience significant injury within 10 years of starting their career.
RMI has developed a robotic system that allows Canon’s Aplio i700 ultrasound system to be remotely operated and controlled from a central location by specialists cardiac and general sonographers. The system utilizes Canon’s remote operating tablet to control the system commands. This product is designed to deliver a mobile, cost-effective, safe and rapid solution that seeks to overcome the inadequacies of existing processes. While this technology has a broad application, the initial focus will be to enable the capability for specialist services to be provided viably and efficiently to regional and remote areas of Australia, via remote operation.
In addition, because the robot incorporates a haptic controller requiring minimal force input, it provides sonographers with the ability to undertake existing “in-room” ultrasounds with limited physical impact and consequently a significant reduction in the adverse occupational health and safety (OH&S) outcomes currently experienced. 85% of sonographers experience significant injury within 10 years of starting their career.
Support for arts, culture and sports
Supporting Health in Rugby
Canon Medical Systems France shares values with the sport of rugby: a collective commitment based on the skills of each individual. We joined forces with the Rugby Club de Suresnes to create a Rugby Santé section that includes and welcomes members of all ages, whatever their physical or mental differences. Rugby Santé is specifically aimed at men and women with long-term health conditions and is guided by a team of specialized coaches and medical staff, with the support of Canon Medical Systems France. It promotes a special form of rugby that is safe to practice as it is played without tackling and delivers on activity that have been proven, both in terms of prevention and treatment. In addition to the benefits of sporting activity, Rugby Santé enables players to create and maintain strong social links.
Canon Medical Systems France also welcomed the rugby section at its offices and internal information meetings which enabled us to present the sponsorship with the Rugby Club de Suresnes. Also, other actions were organized, such as a collaboration of the RCS players at the Journées Francophones de la Radiologie, the most important congress for French-speaking radiologists. For the 2023 edition, RCS players were present at our booth, demonstrating our range of ultrasound scanners as models. The Canon Medical teams also came to the rugby stadium for a try-out of the rugby health workshops for teambuilding purposes.
Partnering in Sports Medicine
Canon Medical partners with elite sports clubs to help prevent and manage musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries through cutting-edge imaging technology that supports accurate diagnosis and treatment. Our goal is to foster the sharing of important sports medicine knowledge and enable everyone, amateur or professional, to get the most out of their sport.
Creating new value
With a history of about 100 years since its launch, Canon Medical Systems Corporation has developed and expanded many technologies and products in response to potential needs through collaboration with customers in the medical industry.
As the global population ages, Canon boasts a leading share of the global market in the field of diagnostic imaging equipment, which is indispensable in the medical field, and supplies products to more than 190 countries and regions around the world.
Under the corporate slogan ‘Made for Life’, we will continue to create new value in a wide range of areas, from prevention to prognosis, and contribute to the development of medicine and the maintenance and improvement of people's health.
As the global population ages, Canon boasts a leading share of the global market in the field of diagnostic imaging equipment, which is indispensable in the medical field, and supplies products to more than 190 countries and regions around the world.
Under the corporate slogan ‘Made for Life’, we will continue to create new value in a wide range of areas, from prevention to prognosis, and contribute to the development of medicine and the maintenance and improvement of people's health.
Next Generation CT
Photon Counting CT
Interest in the early detection and prompt treatment of diseases has increased over the years. CT systems, which feature short examination times and widespread availability at many hospitals, are therefore attracting a great deal of attention. In particular, there are high expectations for photon counting CT, which promises to improve CT performance in many ways.
Interest in the early detection and prompt treatment of diseases has increased over the years. CT systems, which feature short examination times and widespread availability at many hospitals, are therefore attracting a great deal of attention. In particular, there are high expectations for photon counting CT, which promises to improve CT performance in many ways.
Innovating in Research and Development
CT scanner that allows you to take images while standing
CT devices use X-rays to capture cross-sectional images of the body and visualize lesions just a few millimeters in size inside the body. Until now, examinations were generally performed with the patient lying down (supine position), which made it difficult to diagnose diseases that cause pain when standing, such as knee osteoarthritis and hernias. A new CT that allows examinations while standing or sitting is attracting attention.
CT devices use X-rays to capture cross-sectional images of the body and visualize lesions just a few millimeters in size inside the body. Until now, examinations were generally performed with the patient lying down (supine position), which made it difficult to diagnose diseases that cause pain when standing, such as knee osteoarthritis and hernias. A new CT that allows examinations while standing or sitting is attracting attention.
Early Detection is Key to Saving More Lives Through Lung Cancer Screening
Early detection is crucial for improving lung cancer survival rates. In 2023, Canon Medical continued to provide advanced imaging technologies for low-dose CT lung cancer screening, aiming to alleviate concerns about radiation exposure and increase participation in screening programs. This is part of our commitment to contribute to society and combat lung cancer on a global scale.
Screening for early signs of lung cancer began in the 1950s with chest X-rays, following major developments in 1977 and 1996 and major trials in 2002 (NLST in the USA) and 2020 (NELSON in Europe), indicating that screening could lead to earlier detection and reduce lung cancer deaths. As of yet, lung cancer remains one of the most prevalent and deadly cancers worldwide, contributing to nearly 1 in 5 of all cancer deaths. Often, by the time symptoms appear, the disease has progressed to a stage where treatment options are limited, resulting in poor prognoses despite advancements in medical treatments.
As part of our Made for Life philosophy, Canon Medical is committed to offering advanced imaging technologies designed to deliver high-quality images at reduced radiation doses. Our AI-enhanced CT lung cancer screening solutions, including the combination of SilverBeam filter and AiCE, offer high-quality images with minimal noise and radiation exposure. This ultra-low dose chest CT removes a patient’s barrier of being afraid of radiation and proves to be a gamechanger.
Through our innovations and collaborations, we are dedicated to improving the patient experience and making lung cancer screening more accessible and acceptable. By reducing the fear of radiation exposure and bringing advanced imaging technology to underserved areas, we strive to increase participation in screening programs, leading to earlier detection and better outcomes for those at risk. In collaboration with Dr. Awai from Hiroshima University, we conducted research to investigate the effectiveness of low-dose CT lung cancer screening for the residents of Miyoshi City in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. Since January 2015, over 1,200 annual low-dose CT lung cancer screenings targeting heavy smokers aged 50 to 75 have been conducted in Miyoshi City. In five years, 27 lung cancer cases were detected, with 24 identified at an early stage.
As part of our Made for Life philosophy, Canon Medical is committed to offering advanced imaging technologies designed to deliver high-quality images at reduced radiation doses. Our AI-enhanced CT lung cancer screening solutions, including the combination of SilverBeam filter and AiCE, offer high-quality images with minimal noise and radiation exposure. This ultra-low dose chest CT removes a patient’s barrier of being afraid of radiation and proves to be a gamechanger.
Through our innovations and collaborations, we are dedicated to improving the patient experience and making lung cancer screening more accessible and acceptable. By reducing the fear of radiation exposure and bringing advanced imaging technology to underserved areas, we strive to increase participation in screening programs, leading to earlier detection and better outcomes for those at risk. In collaboration with Dr. Awai from Hiroshima University, we conducted research to investigate the effectiveness of low-dose CT lung cancer screening for the residents of Miyoshi City in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. Since January 2015, over 1,200 annual low-dose CT lung cancer screenings targeting heavy smokers aged 50 to 75 have been conducted in Miyoshi City. In five years, 27 lung cancer cases were detected, with 24 identified at an early stage.
A growing interest in lung cancer screening worldwide Lung Cancer Screening
AI Support for Sustainability
Our Commitment to Sustainability
As part of our Made for Life philosophy, we are committed to offering advanced imaging technologies designed to provide high-quality imaging and deliver seamless workflows. Our AI solutions powered by Altivity support sustainability by enhancing diagnostic accuracy, optimizing workflows, and conserving resources.
In 2023, we deepened our commitment to building a more sustainable future. By leveraging AI responsibly, we are not only improving patient care but also fostering a supportive work environment for medical professionals and contributing positively to environmental sustainability.
In today’s fast-paced medical environment, delivering excellent patient care relies on making quick and accurate decisions. However, this goal is often hindered by significant challenges, such as staff shortages, increasing workloads, and the overwhelming volume of data that must be assessed. These issues not only affect the quality of patient care but also contribute to staff burnout and environmental impacts through inefficient use of resources and energy. Additionally, repeated scans due to unclear images or misdiagnoses result in increased patient radiation exposure and resource wastage, further straining medical facilities.
“Altivity" AI-enhanced high-quality imaging and AI-driven workflow optimization
To address these pressing challenges, we have introduced Altivity, a suite of advanced AI-powered technologies aimed at improving the accuracy, efficiency, and consistency of medical imaging. For more detailed information, click below.
As part of our Made for Life philosophy, we are committed to offering advanced imaging technologies designed to provide high-quality imaging and deliver seamless workflows. Our AI solutions powered by Altivity support sustainability by enhancing diagnostic accuracy, optimizing workflows, and conserving resources.
In 2023, we deepened our commitment to building a more sustainable future. By leveraging AI responsibly, we are not only improving patient care but also fostering a supportive work environment for medical professionals and contributing positively to environmental sustainability.
In today’s fast-paced medical environment, delivering excellent patient care relies on making quick and accurate decisions. However, this goal is often hindered by significant challenges, such as staff shortages, increasing workloads, and the overwhelming volume of data that must be assessed. These issues not only affect the quality of patient care but also contribute to staff burnout and environmental impacts through inefficient use of resources and energy. Additionally, repeated scans due to unclear images or misdiagnoses result in increased patient radiation exposure and resource wastage, further straining medical facilities.
“Altivity" AI-enhanced high-quality imaging and AI-driven workflow optimization
To address these pressing challenges, we have introduced Altivity, a suite of advanced AI-powered technologies aimed at improving the accuracy, efficiency, and consistency of medical imaging. For more detailed information, click below.
Deep learning technologies (such as Advanced intelligent Clear-IQ Engine (AiCE) and Precise IQ Engine (PIQE)) are designed to deliver sharp, clear images quickly, while shortening examination time. These innovations enhance diagnostic accuracy, which significantly reduce the need for repeated imaging. By minimizing the need for repeat scans, these deep learning technologies help lower radiation exposure for patients and conserve essential resources such as electricity and medical imaging materials, contributing to environmental sustainability.
Additionally, the Automation Platform is an AI-based zero-click solution that leverages deep learning technology to streamline workflows and consistently provide prompt and practical results. By automating routine and time-consuming tasks, it helps alleviate the pressure on existing staff. Radiologists and clinicians can then focus on more complex tasks with higher value. Quick access to relevant information ensures that staff can make informed decisions without the stress of sifting through excessive data.
Additionally, the Automation Platform is an AI-based zero-click solution that leverages deep learning technology to streamline workflows and consistently provide prompt and practical results. By automating routine and time-consuming tasks, it helps alleviate the pressure on existing staff. Radiologists and clinicians can then focus on more complex tasks with higher value. Quick access to relevant information ensures that staff can make informed decisions without the stress of sifting through excessive data.
*The AI mentioned in this article refers to the use of AI technology at the design stage, and does not have a self-learning function.
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"Canon Medical Systems Corporation": Represents Canon Medical Systems Corporation alone.
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