SimonMed Imaging partners with AI mammography solution CureMetrix

CureMetrix's solution reads mammograms, detecting and localizing Breast Arterial Calcifications

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women in the United States, behind only lung cancer. Screenings are critical, yet the process has several inefficiencies, including the inconsistency in image quality and interpretation across different facilities, leading to variability in diagnostic accuracy.

Another major challenge is access to breast cancer screenings, as many patients can't afford care or in underserved areas face limited access to advanced screening technology, which can delay early detection, Dr. Sean Raj, Chief Innovation Officer of medical imaging provide and physician radiology practice SimonMed Imaging, told VatorNews.

One of the ways to solve this problem is through the use of artificial intelligence, he explained.

Through strategic partnerships with leading AI and technology companies, we’re tackling these issues by implementing state-of-the-art imaging technologies and AI-driven tools that improve diagnostic precision, reduce variability, and expand access to advanced screenings," said Raj.

"Our ultimate goal is to create a more personalized, patient-centered experience that benefits patients, radiologists, and the community."

On Tuesday, the company announced an agreement with CureMetrix, a provider of AI-driven mammography solutions, in which SimonMed will incorporate cmAngio, CureMetrix imaging solution, into its network of facilities nationwide.

FDA-cleared cmAngio is an AI-based software that reads mammograms and detects and localizes Breast Arterial Calcifications (BAC). It analyzes both full-field digital mammography (FFDM) and digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) screening mammograms in order to identify and mark these anomalies, thus allowing radiologists to use existing screening mammograms to identify women who have breast arterial calcifications and then refer them for additional evaluation. 

CureMetrix’s technology will be incorporated into SimonMed locations nationwide, allowing women to opt for CureMetrix’s technology in their breast screenings and scans.

"We’re excited to bring CureMetrix’s technology into our SimonMed locations and is a great fit for us because CureMetrix’s goals align perfectly with our core values of innovation, quality, and patient-centered care. Through our partnership with CureMetrix, we’re enhancing our women’s imaging services, enabling more accurate screenings and elevating patient care," said Raj.

"Unlike other solutions, cmAngio allows radiologists to identify BAC during standard screenings, enabling early referral for cardiovascular evaluation and adding an important layer of preventative care beyond traditional breast cancer detection."

Interested women will gain additional insights into both their breast and heart health, while radiologists will have access to AI tools that enhance diagnostic detail and preventative capacity. Patients, in turn, gain a more comprehensive, confidence-building screening experience that supports early detection and better health outcomes.

"This partnership will provide a significant return on investment by boosting diagnostic accuracy and fostering greater patient trust. With CureMetrix’s technology, we can identify issues sooner, supporting our goal of high-quality, patient-centered healthcare that prioritizes preventative care. We believe there will also be interest in our communities served to have the option of this unique value added to patient’s routine screening," said Raj.

CureMetrix has partnered with practicing radiologists, cardiologists, and institutions around the world to collect over 5 million images to train and validate their algorithms. In addition to breast cancer, its AI can also be used to detect heart disease to kidney disease; as such, while SimonMed will use CureMetrix's solution will be use in breast exams to start, the company sees a number of other areas where it may be expanded to. 

"We at SimonMed are excited to lead innovation in Radiology through strategic partnerships that emphasize early detection across all areas of imaging. The partnership with CureMetrix is just one of several groundbreaking projects in the pipeline as we pave a new path in Radiology," said Raj. 

Ultimately, this fits into SimonMed's mission, which centers on delivering accessible, affordable, and advanced care, and it's just one of several projects in the pipeline as the company paves a new path in radiology.

"We prioritize using cutting-edge technology to enhance preventative care for all patients. Our core values are rooted in patient-centered care, continuous technological innovation, and broadening access to high-quality healthcare - values that shape every aspect of our organization, " Raj explained. 

"By bringing CureMetrix’s AI-driven tools to SimonMed locations nationwide, we’re advancing patient care with leading-edge technology to deliver more accurate and preventive screenings for women across the country. Together, we’re setting new standards in patient-centered care, making a meaningful impact on women’s health.”

(Image source: radiologybusiness.com)