Microsoft and GE officially agree on Caradigm acquisition

Back in 2012, Microsoft and GE hooked up to create a joint venture in healthcare, Caradigm, that was intended to create data solutions for that industry and was where Microsoft migrated most of the staff belonging to its Health Services Group. As is usual with such endeavors, a number of other Microsoft acquisitions went into creating Caradigm, and the entity represented the thrust of Microsoft’s efforts to penetrate the healthcare market.

Now, according to ZDNet, the company is divesting itself of its stake in Caradigm, a move that was confirmed by a Microsoft spokesperson:

“Microsoft and GE Healthcare are proud of the progress that Caradigm has made since its inception in 2012,” the Microsoft spokesperson said. “This decision is consistent with both parties’ business strategies and their continued commitment to the healthcare industry. Microsoft continues to deliver new technologies and work with partners across the industry to empower health organizations, communities and people to improve care. Microsoft will continue to work with Caradigm as a partner.”

This doesn’t mean that Microsoft isn’t interested in healthcare, of course, but rather that the company’s approach to the market will be in working with its various partners rather than maintaining its own healthcare-specific organization. Microsoft’s dedication to health remains obvious with its HealthVault service, Microsoft Health, and of course products like the Band 2.