ProMedica President and CEO Randy Oostra said the health system has been in talks with a Chinese genomic and genetic-testing company to open an operation in Toledo, according to The Blade.
While Mr. Oostra declined to name the genetics firm to The Blade, he said he plans to meet with the firm's executive leadership during his five-day trip to learn more about the Chinese healthcare system and explore additional hospital consulting and management opportunities.
ProMedica has made several investments in personalized medicine initiatives. For example, the health system is testing tumors for genetic signals to select the right chemotherapy treatments for patients.
"Having a better understanding of genetics is increasingly important to most appropriately treat diseases," Mr. Oostra said, adding that the firm ProMedica is wooing would also boost the health system's research and clinical care, as well as help improve Toledo's economy.
ProMedica already maintains several clinical relationships with Chinese hospitals, including a 1,000-bed children's and women's facility, Mr. Oostra said. An outreach facility in China could also give Chinese medical residents and research fellows opportunities to practice medicine at ProMedica in the U.S.
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