The German publishing group Bertelsmann is planning to develop new business lines in the health-care sector.
"One business area that we have been looking at for some time is digital health with a focus on the United States. We see great opportunities in this market," the group's chief executive Thomas Rabe told dpa on Tuesday.
Specifically, this could involve services for hospitals, such as billing systems.
"We are looking at what opportunities there are in the US. The entry would have to be made via a company acquisition," added Rabe.
Bertelsmann's chief executive did not rule out the possibility of a deal being finalized as early as this year. "It's about building up new divisions to give Bertelsmann an even broader base," he said.
Bertelsmann, with more than 80,000 employees worldwide, is primarily known for its media and book businesses.
Its portfolio includes the RTL Group's TV channels, and magazines such as Stern and Geo, as well as the international book publishing group Penguin Random House.
The group also includes divisions such as Arvato services, the BMG music division and education and investment activities.