November 7, 2008 - Richard Atkin, President and CEO of Sunquest Information Systems, Inc., answers questions about Sunquest’s acquisition of Anglia Healthcare Systems, Ltd.

 1) Can you describe Sunquest’s strategy and philosophy for international growth?

A year little over a year ago, when Sunquest was re-launched as a private company, I made a commitment to Sunquest customers, employees and the global market that we would invest to deliver growth globally, combined with a mission to fulfill customers’ needs for information technologies that are interoperable and integrate vital laboratory data cross the continuum of care.

As we move forward, I would say that our international growth plans are balanced - aggressive, proactive, and planned with our customers’ long-term interests at the forefront.  Our customers in the UK, EMEA (Europe. Middle East, Africa), and in North America should be assured that we are planning and executing very carefully.

2) What are some of the reasons Sunquest acquired Anglia Healthcare Systems?

Last year, I articulated a strategy for the newly re-launched Sunquest based on international growth, physician / general practitioner connectivity – or outreach as it’s called in North America – and the up-and-coming field of personalised medicine.  We recognised that Anglia’s ICE and Sunquest’s Laboratory solutions are very complementary, and we have many mutual customers.  With this acquisition, Sunquest gains innovative products designed for the international market, strong competitive advantages in the UK and EMEA, and a significant international presence which includes leading Trusts and hospitals in the UK and Western Europe.  The Anglia business gains a strong partner who can provide stability and a reliable future.

Anglia and Sunquest share many common cultural attributes.  Both companies have innovative solutions and a reputation for outstanding customer service.  Nearly 90% of Sunquest’s staff are in customer-serving roles; in Anglia, we saw the same dedication and customer commitment.

3) What effect will the acquisition have on your customers? 

Sunquest and Anglia already have several joint customers in the UK and EMEA; the feedback they have given us is that they are very excited and pleased at the news of the acquisition.  They were satisfied with each company individually, and appreciate the synergies we have together.

We are committed to providing all of our customers with the same high level of support and service that they have come to expect over the years, and anticipate adding even more value in the future.

4) How will the acquisition impact operations and employees in the UK and EMEA?

The Anglia employees are truly one of the greatest assets Sunquest has gained from this acquisition.  We want and expect them to continue their excellent job performance  now that they are part of the Sunquest team.   

Our headquarters will remain in the UK, and the Norwich offices will become our centre.  Our international opportunities will continue to grow, , providing new employment for professionals in the region, and creating opportunities for advancement for the talented and experienced employees we have gained and will need to rely on in the future. 

5) What is Sunquest’s vision for the future, and what is driving this vision? 

We see the future of diagnostic information technology being driven by our customers’ needs for efficient workflow, combined with concern for quality care and patient safety, access to pathology results, and expanding interest in the fields of digital pathology and personalized medicine.  Our vision for the future really comes from listening to our customers and understanding the needs and requirements of their operations, medical practices, business concerns, and service needs for patients and communities.   

Many of our customers are recognised worldwide as innovators and thought leaders in their fields of discipline, and we’re working right by their side to innovate and create the next generation of diagnostic information systems.  The field of personalised medicine is one of the most exciting new areas for the diagnostic laboratory, and one where Sunquest will play a key role.