The International Biomed Cross (IBC), a new global initiative aimed at supporting the maintenance and repair of medical devices during disasters and health emergencies, was officially launched on 23 May at the MedTech Policy Mahotsav held at the Constitutional Club of India in New Delhi.
The IBC has been initiated by the Andhra Pradesh MedTech Zone (AMTZ) with support from the Universal Clinical Engineering Federation (UCEF). It aims to build a global network of biomedical and clinical engineers who can provide technical assistance to hospitals, clinics, and emergency units—particularly in regions lacking adequate biomedical infrastructure.
Dr Jitendra Sharma, Managing Director and Founder CEO of AMTZ, formally launched the initiative in the presence of stakeholders from India’s health and medical technology sectors.
Speaking at the event, Dr Sharma said, “In times of disaster, broken equipment is as deadly as unavailable equipment. The International Biomed Cross is our answer to that gap. This is India’s humanitarian and technological response to global healthcare disruptions.”
The IBC will rely on a volunteer force of biomedical engineers and healthcare technology experts who will provide repair, maintenance, and remote technical support during crises. Beyond emergency response, the initiative also seeks to build long-term healthcare resilience in underserved areas by facilitating the donation of medical equipment and promoting knowledge exchange.
AMTZ has invited volunteers, donors, and healthcare institutions globally to participate in the IBC mission, which aims to ensure that malfunctioning medical equipment does not become a barrier to patient care during critical times.