CompuMed Inc has signed a five-year distribution agreement with National Imaging Resources (NIR). Based in Willoughby, Ohio, NIR is one of the largest distribution organizations in the medical imaging field.

Under the new agreement, NIR's network of sales representatives will sell CompuMed's patented OsteoGram system to the growing U.S. market for conventional and digital radiography products.

"We are delighted to be associated with NIR and the world-class sales and service professionals that comprise its membership," stated CompuMed CEO, Jerry McLaughlin. "Their focus on selling capital equipment, combined with their commitment to serving the market for digital radiography and PACS network servers, fits nicely with CompuMed's strategy to develop digital medical imaging applications."

The OsteoGram is a software-based computer imaging system that enables healthcare providers to screen, diagnose and monitor osteoporosis using either a conventional, film-based hand x-ray or a digital image from filmless x-ray equipment. CompuMed recently developed a DICOM version for use on digital imaging platforms, which have become a high growth segment of the medical imaging market.

"We believe the OsteoGram can be distributed effectively as a value-added product that will help NIR's reps enhance sales of radiography platforms," added McLaughlin. "Under the new agreement, NIR's customers will be able to upgrade their capital equipment and provide patients with valuable point-of-care osteoporosis testing by using the OsteoGram reimbursement to offset equipment acquisition costs."