Ukraine Conflict: ABHI Statement of Support for all Those Affected
If, like me, you have been closely following events unfold in Ukraine over the past week with a sense of immense sadness, I am sure you will join me in expressing your thoughts and support for all those impacted within the country.
The tragic consequence of any conflict, or indeed major global event, is the impact it has on civilians, and in particular, the provision of day-to-day services that we so often take for granted. We experienced this acutely over the past two years as hospitals around the world became overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients, and in response to the pandemic, our HealthTech sector was called upon to provide unprecedented support.
We do not yet know what the long-term impact of the Ukrainian crisis will be on the healthcare sector in the region, but there will likely be the need for our HealthTech industry to provide any support so that products can continue to reach those who need them. The ABHI secretariat have today written to government to request a formal route whereby donations of HealthTech products can be sent to healthcare facilities in the country, and as soon as we have more details on this process, we will communicate this to you.
In the meantime, please do continue to share with Eleanor any intelligence as to how the crisis is impacting your businesses, so that we can inform government as necessary. Thank you to those who have already done this.
If you have questions about trading with Ukraine or Russia you can use the Department for International Trade's dedicated Export Support Service, either through the online platform, or by calling 0300 303 8955. You will also have seen Eleanor's communication on Friday that highlighted guidance from the UK's National Cyber Security Centre on the steps to take when the cyber threat is heightened.
We will continue to keep you updated as the situation develops.
With best regards,
Phil Kennedy, Chair, ABHI