Merge Offers eFilm Software Amnesty Program

October 9, 2008 - Merge Healthcare is now offering the implementation of Authentic eFilm, a software amnesty program to help organizations comply with license agreements for eFilm Workstation and to address unauthorized use of the software.

Merge is first healthcare firm to join the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA), a software and digital content industry’s principle trade association that works with members to successfully thwart software piracy.

eFilm Workstation (an FDA-approved Class II Medical Device) is widely used among clinicians to view digital MRI, CT, X-ray and other images to diagnose and recommend patient treatment. Merge modifies and enhances the solution as environments change, and provides updates to customers. These updates may not be reaching users of pirated or unsupported copies, which could increase the risk of individuals using software that does not meet the high standards of the medical imaging industry.

In additiona, on January 1, 2009, SIIA will begin auditing organizations that are reported to the SIIA as being non-compliant with eFilm licenses. The SIIA will seek damages against organizations with illegal copies of eFilm Workstation or copies exceeding those allowed by license.

Under the Authentic eFilm program, Merge requests eFilm users with license validity concerns to complete a software audit form by December 31, 2008. Forms and information are available at www.authenticefilm.com. Participation in this process will enable organizations to validate compliance with end-user licenses, including verification that they are not using pirated versions, shared software, multiple installations or expired licenses. Users who discover they are non-compliant have the opportunity to purchase a license without penalty during the amnesty period, which expires on December 31, 2008. Academic and charitable organizations may apply for discounted eFilm software from Merge by completing an application from the www.authenticefilm.com web site.

For more information: www.merge.com and www.siia.net