IMS Health Buys Patient Data Anonymizing Firm

Pharma data giant IMS Health has acquired a Canadian company called Privacy Analytics, which provides technology solutions for de-identifying and anonymizing structured and unstructured patient-level data. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Privacy Analytics' core offer consists of a suite of data governance software and advisory services allowing stakeholders to tap into complex datasets while protecting patient privacy. Following the deal, the firm's capabilities will be used across the IMS Health business to develop new approaches and enhance existing methods for ensuring the responsible use of anonymous healthcare information. IMS says the acquisition strengthens its position as a leading advocate of patient privacy and data protection.

Privacy Analytics founder and CEO Khaled El Emam (pictured) says his teams has 'pioneered the methodologies, software and services that enable responsible use of complex health information', and adds: 'We are excited to join IMS Health, which offers us a global platform and leading-edge technologies that bring our privacy compliance innovations to a broader client base across life sciences and healthcare'.

Web sites are at www.imshealth.com and www.privacy-analytics.com .