Imaging Moves to the Center of Connected Care

GE HealthCare’s Intelerad deal highlights the shift toward cloud-based, connected hospital systems

6 Jan 2026

GE HealthCare has agreed to acquire imaging software group Intelerad for $2.3bn, a deal the company says will strengthen its push towards cloud-based imaging and more connected hospital systems. The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2026.

The acquisition comes as hospitals face rising patient volumes, staff shortages and tighter budgets, increasing pressure to run services more efficiently. Imaging plays a central role in clinical decision-making, but imaging systems have often operated separately from scheduling, electronic records and operational tools.

GE HealthCare said bringing Intelerad into its portfolio would help close that gap by expanding its cloud imaging capabilities across hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics. Faster and more flexible access to scans can help clinicians make decisions sooner and reduce delays in treatment, while improving the use of staff and facilities.

The deal also reflects a broader shift in healthcare technology. Health systems are increasingly seeking fewer suppliers that can offer integrated platforms rather than a patchwork of standalone products. As hospitals grow through mergers and regional expansion, standardising technology has become a priority.

Analysts say cloud-based imaging is gaining momentum because it allows clinical data to move more easily across organisations and care settings. For providers, this can improve coordination and resource planning. For patients, it may translate into shorter waiting times and smoother transitions between stages of care.

GE HealthCare executives have described the acquisition as part of a wider effort to simplify care delivery through digital tools. The company already has a large presence in medical imaging hardware, and the deal would deepen its exposure to software and data services.

Execution risks remain. Integrating a fast-growing software business into a large industrial healthcare group will require careful management, particularly around product development, customer support and data security. Hospitals and regulators are also likely to scrutinise how systems handle sensitive patient information.

Even so, the transaction underlines a clear direction of travel. Imaging is becoming a core component of connected, digital-first healthcare operations rather than a standalone function. The technology choices made by providers and suppliers now are likely to shape how care is delivered in the years ahead.