September 10, 2024

Germitec Launches US Operations appoints Keith Koby as President North America

  • Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs) claim 99,000 lives annually1, making infection prevention a top priority for the US healthcare system.
  • US High-Level Disinfection for ultrasound probes represents an opportunity of 60,000 units driven by a rapid expansion of imaging exams ($4 billion2 ultrasound market).
  • In about 90 seconds³, Chronos® offers a user-friendly, traceable, and chemical-free disinfection solution with validated microbial kill efficacy.
  • Keith Koby, a seasoned commercial leader and expert in both ultrasound and infection prevention markets, will report to Vincent Gardès, CEO of Germitec, in his new role.

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Bordeaux, France, and San Diego, California – September 10, 2024 – Following the recent De Novo clearance for Chronos® automated disinfection device, Germitec, a pioneering French MedTech company specializing in High-Level Disinfection (HLD) for ultrasound probes through its proprietary UVC technology, has appointed Keith Koby as President North America.

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Keith brings over 30 years of experience in the North American MedTech industry, including leadership roles at GE Healthcare and Nanosonics. His extensive expertise in building commercial teams will be invaluable as Germitec rapidly expands its US presence. Most recently, Keith was instrumental in growing HeraMED’s business in the US, optimizing its go-to-market strategy and overseeing the largest deployment of their FDA-approved telehealth solution.

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As part of Germitec’s international growth strategy, Keith will lead the company’s entry into the US High-Level Disinfection market for ultrasound probes and its long-term commercial development.

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The ultrasound market is experiencing rapid growth, with increasing demand across various medical departments, including Gynecology & IVF, Urology, Radiology, and Emergency Medicine. When not properly disinfected, ultrasound probes can lead to cross-contamination and Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HAIs result in 99,000 deaths annually1, underscoring the importance of infection prevention in the US healthcare system.

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Chronos® uses patented UV-C technology, proven to be both safe and effective through the rigorous FDA De Novo process. In about 90 seconds³, this one-button, chemical-free, automated device significantly reduces cross-contamination risks. Designed for placement in exam rooms, close to ultrasound machines, Chronos® enhances patient workflow, allowing healthcare providers to see more patients while ensuring a high standard of care. The intuitive interface enables seamless data storage, viewing, and downloading, ensuring complete disinfection traceability.

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Its environmentally friendly technology reduces human error and enhances the safety of the High-Level Disinfection process by controlling key parameters such as dose, temperature, and time.

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With a market opportunity of 60,000 units in the US, Germitec is poised to quickly capture market share.

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Keith Koby, President North America, stated: "I am honored to join Germitec’s world-class team and lead the launch of Chronos® across North America. Starting now, we are offering healthcare facilities a groundbreaking, chemical-free cost-saving technology. Our goal is to have Chronos® in every department where ultrasound exams are conducted."

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Vincent Gardès, Chief Executive Officer of Germitec, added: "We are thrilled to welcome Keith as we launch our Chronos® automated disinfection device in the largest healthcare market. Keith’s experience and proven track record are tremendous assets to the Germitec team. With De Novo clearance, we are well-positioned to complete our next financing round and scale rapidly in the USA, while continuing to expand in other regions and lead the way in UV-C High-Level Disinfection technology."

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About Germitec

Founded in 2005 by the Deshays family, Germitec is an innovative French MedTech company specializing in High-Level Disinfection for ultrasound probes using proprietary UV-C technology. The company safeguards over 2 million patients annually across EMEA, APAC, and South America and is present in over 40 countries through an extensive network of distributors.

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References

1. Almeida S et Al., (2020) Health Care–Associated Infections (HAIs) 10.1016/j.jen.2015.01.006

2. https://www.novaoneadvisor.com/report/ultrasound-devices-market?trk=article-ssr-frontend-pulse_little-text-block

3. Germitec internal data: average cycle time of 90 seconds

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