Bendigo is set to benefit from a new acceleration program to fast-track the development of medtech products thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Industry Support and Recovery Ben Carroll announced a new $260,000 partnership between the University of Melbourne and Bendigo Health to boost medtech innovation.
It will be the first time the program expands to regional Victoria, following successful partnerships led by the University of Melbourne with Western Health and the Royal Melbourne Hospital.
Previous partnerships led to the creation of the 'McMonty by MediHood', a personal ventilator hood for hospital beds and the 'Stroke Rapid Diagnostic Test' - a tool that allows paramedics and clinicians to quickly determine the cause of a stroke and help them decide whether to administer life-saving treatment.
Backed by the Labor Government's Australian Medtech Manufacturing Centre, the program will bring together clinicians, researchers, engineers and manufacturers to support medtech projects across the hospital - it will be fully run by Bendigo Health after 12 months.
The Australian Medtech Manufacturing Centre is a $20 million Government initiative to support the growth of medical technology manufacturing in the state.
As stated by Minister for Industry Support and Recovery Ben Carroll
"We will continue to back Victoria to become a global centre for medtech innovation and are proud to be expanding this fantastic program to Bendigo."
As stated by Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan
"This investment is recognition of the skills and talent we have to develop innovative healthcare products right here in Bendigo."
As stated by Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards
"It's important that regional communities like Bendigo share the benefits of our investments in medtech innovation that are creating jobs and improving the lives of people worldwide."
As stated by Bendigo Health Director of Research and Innovation Doctor Angela Crombie
"Our regional clinicians understand the unmet health needs of our community and this collaboration offers the chance to translate their ideas into practical care solutions."
As stated by University of Melbourne Head of the Melbourne Medical School Professor John Prins
"Our colleagues in Bendigo and across the regional health network do an exceptional job and I'm looking forward to seeing all of the fantastic ideas from our healthcare workers on the frontline."
