The MR systems we manufacture utilize superconducting magnets, enabling physicians to peer inside patients without radiation exposure. New developments have also led to improved experiences during medical testing. From combatting claustrophobia to shortening the test’s duration, our plant is at the forefront of patient comfort and care globally. We are not just working to improve patient experience and care in South Carolina; annually, our plant ships approximately 1,000 magnets and MR systems to 85 countries, facilitating the delivery of advanced healthcare solutions across the globe.
In Florence County, we are a cornerstone of economic prosperity, providing jobs to highly skilled professionals like welders, advanced technicians, assemblers, and engineers. Nearly 750 employees and third-party contractors across SC – many of whom reside here in Florence – are the backbone of our production facility and they collectively generate about $1 billion in economic activity annually, a testament to our significant economic impact on the region.
One of the values of the Florence plant I am particularly proud of is our commitment to safety. We hold the Palmetto Star Voluntary Protection Program certification for safety performance from the State of South Carolina. Ensuring the well-being of our workforce isn't just a checkbox for us – it's a value that echoes GE HealthCare's global commitment to transforming healthcare delivery through innovation, partnerships, and sustainability.
Located in Florence since 1971, our commitment to SC doesn't stop at the factory gates. Our team contributes an impressive 3,600 volunteer hours annually to local charities and organizations. We also foster partnerships with educational institutions like Florence-Darlington Technical College and Francis Marion University, where we directly hire graduates and contribute to the development of future leaders.
We are proud of our footprint and commitment to SC, most recently bringing new products such as the SIGNA Hero 3T MRI system to our portfolio, which was developed and manufactured by South Carolinians. We are also working collaboratively with mild traumatic brain injury experts to develop new technology designed to explore advancements in neuroscience, which have been restricted by the performance limitations of conventional whole-body MR systems.
We are proud to be a global leader in MR systems, but more importantly, we are proud to be on the frontlines of fostering healthcare that is accessible, advanced, and deeply connected to the rest of the world. From peewee to college football, cancer to dementia, we work with individuals from around the world to ensure access to the highest quality imaging capabilities.
Our local story is one of shared success, and I am privileged to lead a team that embodies the spirit of community, progress, and innovation. From our plant in Florence, we are truly creating a world where healthcare has no limits.