Terumo BCT and Hemex Health Collaborate to Improve Access to Testing for Hemoglobin Disorders

Millions of people worldwide living with sickle cell disease and other hemoglobin disorders experience delayed diagnosis and limited access to effective care, particularly in regions where testing is scarce. Early detection of hemoglobin variants is critical for timely treatment and ongoing disease monitoring, yet diagnostic gaps persist in many low-resource settings. Now, a new strategic collaboration aims to expand global access to accurate testing and strengthen the continuum of care for these patients.

Terumo Blood and Cell Technologies (Terumo BCT, Lakewood, CO, USA) and Hemex Health (Portland, OR, USA) have entered into a collaboration to improve access to hemoglobin variant testing using Gazelle, an advanced point-of-care diagnostic platform. Terumo BCT has also made a strategic minority investment in Hemex Health to support innovation and accelerate the adoption of this portable testing tool. The partnership focuses on expanding clinical research, digital integration, and regional pilot programs designed to make diagnostic services more widely available in underserved communities.

Image: The collaboration aims to improve access to Hb variant testing with the Gazelle POC diagnostic platform (Photo courtesy of Hemex Health)

Gazelle is a compact, rugged, battery-operated in vitro diagnostic platform that uses artificial intelligence, optical technology, and miniaturization to deliver rapid and accurate test results. Designed for affordability and ease of use, the device can be operated by entry-level healthcare workers in areas lacking infrastructure or electricity. The system captures and stores digital patient data for review or transmission, enabling early diagnosis of sickle cell disease and other hemoglobin disorders even in remote settings.

Currently, Gazelle is CE-marked and available in more than 40 countries across Africa, India, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. It has already conducted over 3 million tests and will soon seek U.S. FDA clearance to further scale access. The tool not only identifies and quantifies hemoglobin variants in blood but also supports ongoing patient monitoring, helping clinicians assess treatment outcomes over time.

The collaboration builds on Terumo BCT’s global expertise in medical technologies and Hemex Health’s mission to democratize diagnostics. Together, the companies aim to deliver a more connected and comprehensive patient journey, from diagnosis through treatment and follow-up. This approach aligns with growing efforts to bridge healthcare gaps and improve clinical outcomes for populations disproportionately affected by genetic blood disorders.

“Our investment in Hemex and continued exploration of potential areas of collaboration is about meeting patients where they are, especially in communities that have long been underserved. By bridging monitoring and treatment, we’re changing that narrative and delivering timely, life-changing care to those who need it most,” said Antoinette Gawin, President and CEO of Terumo Blood and Cell Technologies.

“Knowing the treatment pathway, from diagnosis to care, is key for patients,” said Terumo BCT’s Chetan Makam, General Manager, Global Blood Solutions, who has been appointed to Hemex’s Board of Directors. “At Terumo BCT, we endeavor to build a portfolio of tools that support patients and caregivers every step of the way. Our partnership with Hemex reflects our deep commitment to delivering real-world solutions that empower both providers and patients. By connecting every step of the patient journey, we aim to reshape the sickle cell ecosystem and improve outcomes at every stage.”

Related Links:
Terumo BCT
Hemex Health