More than two decades ago, a journey to China marked the beginning of a lasting connection for Dr. Marcin Sternicki, Founder of STERMED Clinic in Poland. At the time, he traveled from Xi'an and encountered not only a place, but a set of values that left a lasting impression.

Years later, that early connection resurfaced through collaboration. Dr. Sternicki returned to China through his work with United Imaging, headquartered in Shanghai. For him, the return was less about geography and more about continuity, reflecting how long-standing relationships can evolve into shared professional purpose.

Dr. Sternicki founded and built STERMED from scratch. He said the diagnostic clinic has supported 165,000 patients and conducted close to one million examinations. One early milestone was the launch of the first national breast cancer screening program in northern Poland, supported by the National Health Service. Despite what he described as humble beginnings, the clinic grew quickly and became the third largest in the region.

A major shift came with the clinic's move into digital imaging. Dr. Sternicki said the transition to digital technology changed daily practice, improving accuracy, speed, and patient care. At STERMED, this included the introduction of modern MRI and mammography systems from United Imaging, which played a key role in strengthening breast imaging capabilities. In his view, MRI is the most powerful tool available for breast imaging, particularly for women with dense breast tissue, where traditional methods may miss critical findings. When MRI is combined with mammography, he added, detection rates can reach up to 95%.

One patient's experience illustrates how speed and continuity can shape care. She came to STERMED for an examination and was told she had a tumor. The diagnosis, she said, was devastating. At the same time, access to efficient and timely follow-up testing allowed her to move forward and stay focused on what mattered most to her.

"I had to be strong so I can watch the lives of my granddaughter and son," said the patient.

Dr. Sternicki also highlighted the role of artificial intelligence in clinical work. He described innovation as "a change that unlocks new value".

"It's here to empower us. And that's exactly what I have experienced with United Imaging's technology, especially with their UAI platform in our clinic," said Dr. Sternicki.

Today, he said, systems are deeply integrated into the clinic. Beyond equipment, the collaboration has grown into a space for sharing knowledge, learning together, and continuing to improve.

"In my journey, United Imaging has truly embodied the spirit, serving as a partner from day one," said Dr. Sternicki.

Reflecting on the journey, Dr. Sternicki said it feels like a full circle. From early curiosity about the human body to building a clinic focused on care and continuous improvement, that motivation has remained constant. Trust, long term collaboration, and the willingness to keep learning, he said, continue to shape how the clinic moves forward.