Vision Media Group International | News
14th February 2006 Launch of HealthFX division
ScreenFX plc (AIM: SFX), a leading provider of advanced digital advertising and communication systems, today announces the launch of an entirely new division for the Company called HealthFX. This follows a period of successful trialling in a number of test locations.
HealthFX addresses the increasing need for more modern methods of communication with patients throughout the health sector, both public and private, in the United Kingdom.
Effective communication has become an increasing priority for both hospitals and GP practices in not only promoting their services and facilities but also establishing the health environment as a safe and efficient place for treatment. The HealthFX system addresses this need by providing patient information, communication and a unique Way-Finding solution through a network of monitors and touch screens in waiting and reception areas. Customised content is broadcast through a network, allowing the hospital or GP practice local control and the ability to send real-time messages. Utilising split screen graphics, the monitors display a variety of advertising, positive health messaging, patient alerts, and national and local news.
HealthFX systems have already been installed and are fully operational in eight NHS locations throughout the UK, and the Company is in final negotiations to provide similar services for a further four NHS hospitals as well as seven private hospitals. Within the private healthcare sector, the first phase of the installation programme has recently been completed at two private hospitals in the same group. This phase involved the installation of LCD screens in both the outpatients and main reception areas, which display hospital treatments, services and other relevant facilities.
The installation of HealthFX systems are mainly funded by capital expenditure through NHS Trust financing programmes, including Private Finance Initiative (PFI), ProCure 21 and Local Improvement Finance Trust (LIFT), with some installations partially funded through advertising revenue generation.
The revenue model for HealthFX is still evolving, however, it is capable of generating a substantial income for the Primary Care Trust ("PCT") through advertising sales, whilst providing a fully integrated communication system around a healthcare environment. In turn, HealthFX manages and maintains the system through a management contract with each PCT Trust whilst also generating revenue from the advertising sales.
The Company estimates that the potential marketplace for healthcare communication systems in the UK could be worth up to £20 million per annum within the next five years and, as a lead player, HealthFX is targeting a 30% market share. Initial results suggest that the uniqueness of the HealthFX system will be attractive to advertisers due to the information-based content which its screens show.
David Clark, Chief Executive of ScreenFX plc, said: "Expansion into the healthcare sector is an exciting development for ScreenFX. With the recent introduction of Patient Choice, the public and private healthcare sectors are now having to increase their profile as they enter a more competitive environment. Positive communication is therefore key. The initial foothold that we have already built and the positive reaction to the initial product offering, mean that our HealthFX division is now well positioned to maximise this opportunity. We expect significant growth in HealthFX this year."
HealthFX systems have been installed at:
- Great Western Hospital, Swindon
- WhippsCross Hospital, Leytonstone
- Milton Keynes Treatment Centre, Milton Keynes
- Royal Victoria Hospital, Newcastle
- Freeman's Hospital, Newcastle
- Haywards Walk-in Centre, Stoke
- GP Surgeries in the South Worcestershire PCT
- BMI Beardwood, Blackburn
For further information:
| ScreenFX plc | |
| David Clark, Chief Executive | Tel: +44 (0) 161 428 5544 |
| info@screenfx.com |
Media enquiries:
| Abchurch | |
| Henry Harrison-Topham / Katherine Murphy | Tel: +44 (0) 20 7398 7700 |
| Katherine.murphy@abchurch-group.com | www.abchurch-group.com |