Health Ministry buys 1.309 ambulances

In the framework of implementing the State centralized program to provide ambulances for medical institutions, Ukraine's government has initiated purchase of 1,309 vehicles costing 860 million UAH,the Information-Analytical Bulletin of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine informs.

According to bids received by Ministry of Health of Ukraine from regional state administrations, 206 Class A (line therapy) ambulances, 1.063 Class B (intensive care) ambulances, and 143 Class C (reanimobile) ambulances will be purchased.

Specifically for this tender, new requirements for vehicles were developed, the DSTU was amended, and additional consultations with experts were held. Also, opening of bids for purchase of such socially-important and necessary items as ambulances was held in conditions of maximum openness and transparency. Results of the tender were broadcast across the country at official MHU website, which proves the openness of the Ukrainian government.

Following the tender, the Ministry of Health shortlisted 3 companies: "AIS-Stolitsa," "Ilatanmed" and the Scientific-Production Association "Praktika" (all from Kyiv). All three submitted ambulance designs meeting European and Ukrainian technical standards.

Experts say Ukraine applies extremely high quality requirements to ambulances. Other than the implemented European standard, the country also utilizes the more strict national MHU requirements for upgrade quality and medical equipment. Exactly these requirements, which are clearly prescribed in terms of reference and documentation, ensure that only good quality goods are supplied.

Ministry of Health experts say the award was determined by two key factors: the first one is involvement of domestic medical equipment plants and arrangement of efficient production-technological cooperation between them.

The second factor involves requirements for long-term warranty for corrosion protection of the vehicle body, efficient operation of the vehicle, and extensive network of service centers for maintenance of the vehicle and its equipment.