Member Article

British Business Embassy launch assistive medical firm initiatives

Advanced medical technology companies that supply high-tech prosthetics and aids to disabled people have joined together at London’s British Business Embassy today.

Businesses have gathered to announce new initiatives in the UK assistive medical industry.

The global summit was held alongside the Paralympic Games, and business initiatives released today will advance and expand the capabilities of firms that work with innovative prosthetic limbs, specialist all terrain wheelchairs, and the technology behind assistive products.

Attending the summit, Universities and Science Minister David Willetts commented: “The UK’s strong commitment to research and development, low taxes for business and world class higher education have nurtured one of the world’s largest and most productive life science industries.

“British assistive medical technology firms exemplify how innovation and technology can be harnessed to boost prosperity and change lives – and today’s event is a great opportunity to promote their extraordinary potential to an international audience.”

Visitors to the summit will hear from the Medical Director of the NHS, Ian Stevens, Professor Sir Bruce Keogh KBE FRCS, as well as business leaders from advancing medical firms.

The summit focussed on approaches to rehabilitation and assistive equipment through solutions such as computer controlled artificial limbs, for people who have disabilities, illnesses and injuries.

Initiatives launched today included prosthetic technologies firm Touch Bionics’ announcement of a joint £385,000 grant, which will allow for research into Pattern Recognition carried out alongside the University of Strathclyde.

Prosthetics provider, Blatchford, released details of its investment in machining centres which hope to meet the demand for products worldwide after a 60% sale increase during 2012.

Wheelchair manufacturer Trekinetic All Terrain joined the companies to announce plans to provide technical support to manufacturers overseas, to help the production of one of its new generation wheelchairs.

Later this week, business leaders will congregate at a Global Sports Summit to discuss ways to capitalize on the legacy of both the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Miranda Dobson .