Abbott's Robert Ford: Device Chief Looks Ahead After St. Jude Deal
• By David Filmore
In an interview with Medtech Insight at this year's JP Morgan Healthcare Conference, the executive VP of medical devices for Abbott Laboratories discussed the firm's recent mega-acquisition of St. Jude Medical, the opportunity in cardiovascular, value-based business models, cybersecurity, and more.
According to a survey of health care professionals by J&J, over 45% of surveyed respondents reported experiencing symptoms of burnout, including emotional exhaustion and reduced sense of personal accomplishment. This affects not just clinicians, but also the quality and safety of care they deliver. Most clinicians (72%) say that data and technology could significantly help alleviate this burden.
Abbott and J&J reassured investors they will maintain their 2025 profit forecasts. Abbott projects $5.05 to $5.25 per share and plans a new $500m investment in manufacturing and R&D sites. J&J anticipates $400m in tariff-related costs but committed $55bn in US investment over four years.