New board leadership for medical device manufacturer OptiScan Imaging with the appointment of former Healthscope CEO Robert Cooke.
OptiScan, which was established in 1994, is a global leader in the development of microscopic imaging and related technologies for surgery and medical research. It has developed and patented endomicroscopic technology that enables real-time, 3D, ‘in vivo’ imaging of human tissue at the cellular level for cancer screening, diagnoses, and treatment.
“I am excited to be joining the Board as Chair, and to support the team at OptiScan in the next stage of its dynamic growth plans,” said Mr Cooke.
“The ability of OptiScan’s unique confocal technology to provide instantaneous, live imaging at a cellular level has the opportunity to revolutionise cancer screening and surgical practices with the resulting benefits for patient care.
“With its collaborations with world-class research and medical institutions, OptiScan is well-placed to embark on the global commercialisation of its world-leading technology in oral cancer screening and surgery, as well as pursuing additional clinical applications.”
Mr Cooke brings over four decades of health industry experience to his new position. He has extensive experience leading both publicly listed and private healthcare companies, and management of private and public hospitals in Australia, Asia and the UK.
Mr Cooke served as managing director and CEO of Healthscope from 2010 to 2017. Healthscope is one of Australia’s leading private hospital, medical centre and pathology operators. He is currently a non-executive director of Icon Group and Evercare Group. Icon Group is an operator of cancer centres, specialist services, pharmacy management, compounding, remote care, research and health screening services in Australia, Singapore, Hong Kong and Mainland China, Vietnam and New Zealand. The Evercare Group is a leading impact-driven healthcare group in emerging markets. The Group operates across South East Asia and Africa with 30 hospitals, 16 clinics and 82 diagnostic centres.
Optiscan managing director Darren Lurie said the company looks forward to continuing its growth under Mr Cooke’s leadership.
“We are excited to have someone of Robert’s capabilities and track record to lead our Board. His knowledge of international corporate activity and multiple aspects of the healthcare sector including private health, pathology, pharmacy, radiology and IVF will provide enormous benefit to OptiScan,” said Mr Lurie.