The Amalthea Trust recently provided an exciting opportunity for final year Biomedical Engineering students, from Evelyn Hone College in Zambia, to join an online workshop focused on medical equipment maintenance.

Run in partnership with Hilditch Group and The Tropical Health Education Trust (THET), this comprehensive workshop focused on ventilators, patient monitors and anaesthetic machines, allowing the students to learn about fault finding and preventative maintenance. With an expert team online, they were able to ask lots of questions, while getting hands on experience thanks to having similar equipment their end.

Overall, it was considered a great success, thanks to those involved and the experts on the day; Andy Barrow (Kent Hospitals NHS Trust), Jas Bilkhu (Amalthea Trust and Ex- New Cross Hospital, Wolverhampton) and Roger Sanders (Head of BME Dept. at Hilditch Group).

The Amalthea Trust would always prefer volunteers to visit in person, however the online workshop allowed them to conduct some really meaningful work, so this will continue until travel is permitted again. In the meantime, a repeat workshop is already being planned for a group of BMEs from some of Lusaka’s major hospitals.

Visit the Amalthea Trusts website to find out more on what they do, projects they are working on and how you can get involved - www.amaltheatrust.org.uk

To our European Union buyers

With new customs declaration requirements increasing complexity for those purchasing our UK sales goods and exporting to the EU, our teams are working to assist you in all possible ways. These are some current options we offer to support the process:

• We provide our EORI number on invoices and can, on request, sign a ‘Direct Representation Form’ to assist your customs clearance.

• If you require, we can produce commercial invoices. The commercial invoice will include: Incoterm EXW 2020, commodity codes, country of origin, weights, dimensions (if we pack the goods) and our EORI number. This should be sufficient for your transport company to be able to make the customs declarations.

• If you have any difficulties finding a shipping company/transporter to collect your equipment, please contact us to see how we can help.

• Where you may face temporary delays in moving equipment across UK borders, we have reduced our late collection storage charges and are allowing 4 weeks free storage (to be arranged in advance). We are also looking into offering buyers longer term local storage options.

• In the near future we are hoping to produce customs declarations or refer you to a customs broker.

Please be aware that we continue to sell under Incoterms Exworks 2020.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at transport@hilditchgroup.com where our accounts and logistics teams will be able to offer assistance and advice.

Nick Tait joined us in July as Managing Director to take Hilditch to its next level, driving growth in strategic industry partnerships and focusing on key growth areas in the UK and Europe.  He has 10+ years’ Director level experience in Medical Supplies & Engineering services business, selling into Primary and Secondary care in the UK. He has also worked extensively with Medical Device manufacturers and brings a wealth of experience and industry contacts.  Earlier career roles include a number of senior Commercial roles at GSK Consumer health working in the UK, the Pan European territory and Russia.

On the rare occasion when he isn’t working he enjoys an idyllic life at home in South Wales with family, the dog and a medicinal glass of claret.

Our Medical Engineering department have again been awarded as a supplier on the NHS Supply Chain framework for the maintenance, repair & calibration of medical equipment.

This allows NHS Trusts to easily draw on our Medical Engineering services where required at market leading rates.

Our Engineers have extremely broad knowledge of the maintenance and repair of the majority of medical devices, in part due to our work in selling medical devices for NHS Trusts and the medical industry, but also our ongoing investment into Medical Engineer training.

Our ISO:13485 (Management of Medical Devices) certified Department continues to grow and offer additional services, now including ultrasound scanner servicing and repairs.

When do I need to replace my medical equipment?

The question of when to replace your medical assets is not an easy one and there are a lot of factors to take into account. For every piece of equipment there is invariably a fine balance between annual maintenance costs, what the item would be worth if it was sold and the price to replace the item new.

A medium-sized hospital of around 200·400 beds will often possess more than 20,000 medical devices, with a lifespan per item on average of 5-10 years. Obviously, equipment is not replaced all at the same time, which means that there is a constant flow of equipment coming into a hospital and a similar sized river going out. This is, however, a very generalised estimation, as bed count is not a good rule of thumb to estimate the value of medical assets and establishment possesses. Take into account specialist clinics like eye hospitals, for example, that have no beds, but a lot of high value equipment.

The tipping point

A fine financial threshold resides between; the item costing you more to repair than it would to buy new and sell the old. That is assuming that your health care organisation has the funds and the inclination to regularly replace medical equipment. Here are a few red flags to look out for that indicate your organisation should start to think about replacing your device:

Age: Based on regulations and guidance, you will have guidelines on when you should start to replace your equipment and this will differ with the type of device.

Maintenance cost: If your annual maintenance costs exceed 15% of the initial purchase price, then this is a good indicator that the item is becoming inefficient. Preventative Product Maintenance Contracts are usually renewed every 3-5 years and if you notice that your provider is negotiating a higher rate, then this usually indicates that they estimate a longer service time for one of your items. It is not unreasonable to discuss with them which item it is and whether they recommend its replacement.

Frequency of repair and down time: If your device is disrupting patient services with the time that it is out of service or the amount of errors it is creating during service, it can start presenting a danger to your patients and it is time to think about other options.

The model stops being manufactured or replacement parts stop being made: Good quality models of medical devices enjoy longevity in the market, as a brand’s reputation is built upon its equipment being known for being ‘a workhorse’, but if that model stops being produced then there is likely to be a sudden depreciation in the value of the item. If this is of no importance to your organisation, you will still have to bear in mind the consequences a few years down the line. Needless to say, if you cannot obtain the parts to keep your equipment being maintained, then the item is destined for obsolescence. Bear in mind that you may still get half a decade of useful life out of the item before it heads for the WEEE pile, so consider contacting a resale agent to make the most from your redundant equipment.

There are other factors to take into consideration when deciding that your devices are obsolete, including:

Equipment type: The type of device will have a direct effect on the general perception of when it should be replaced. Life support devices, such as; dialysis machines, defibrillators and incubators, are perceived to need replacing sooner, as they are critical to patient life and newer units offer greater clinical efficiency.

Equipment specification: For example, a 64 slice CT-scanner will obviously be preferential over a 16 slice CT, as it provides a direct diagnostic benefit and give a direct improvement on patient care.

In a private healthcare situation, it is also worth noting:

Brand values and marketing objectives of your healthcare organisation: It would be obvious to assume that these directly influence the spend allocated for new equipment; the higher the desired perception of the brand or the frequency that a competitor replaces their equipment, then the more frequently medical devices will be renewed to give the impression that the organisation is a market leader. However, more often than not private hospitals have a more relaxed approach to replacing their equipment as they don’t fall under the same guidelines as the national health service.

Forecasting and budgeting

It is important that you carry out a cost-benefit analysis for all of your assets. The merits of medical devices existing within an organisation’s structure should be evaluated on the Total Cost of Ownership for a reasonable length of time, to be able to work out fluctuations and averages in costs; 5 years is a good standard term as a rule of thumb. Evaluating the cost of medical equipment over time will identify the total cost of operating the devices and how it affects profit in a healthcare organisation. Whatever the number of items that your organisation is in possession of, you should have a database of all your assets that contains all of the essential information for the assets, including; age, physical condition, service history and the annual costs of repair. Most importantly you should have estimated replacement dates in the calendar to be able to project capital expenditures over at least the next five-years.

Valuation and asset management software solutions

There are software-as-a-service systems on the market that can calculate how much your old medical equipment would be worth if sold it now and how much it would be worth if you sold it in X number of years. These systems are especially useful if you have to plan the management of a large number of medical assets, for instance if you are a private healthcare organisation or a lease company. However, if you only have a couple of items that you are replacing then any reputable medical resale agent will happily give you a free valuation of your items. As we are all aware, from the depreciation of items like motor vehicles the same amount of depreciation is not lost each yeah. A car is likely to depreciate more in the first few years and less as it is nearing the end of its life. Good residual value prediction software will give you a smooth curve. Beware of lease companies and medical asset resale agents that calculate depreciation in essence as a straight line, from price new to zero value at the end of its life. As long as the item is still working there will be someone out there willing to buy it.

Disposing of your medical devices

There are various options to consider when removing redundant equipment from site. Some manufacturers will happily buy back old equipment to keep the value of their new equipment high. Disposing of medical devices is not as simple as throwing the device in the skip, sending it to the scrap yard or putting it up on eBay when it is considered to be obsolete. As all electrical bio-medical devices have the potential to contain patient identifiable data and the data protection act of 2018 decrees that any potential for the data to be passed on must be removed. Even putting items in the skip, you will have to follow the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment recycling (WEEE) directives to make sure everything is accounted for. Items that could possible hold data have to have data wiping certification before disposal. It can be often perceived that it is too much hassle to dispose of equipment, however, this usually is due to lack of resources within the organisation. Even though your organisation may perceive the item to be obsolete, the item or its parts may still be of use to someone else. Many healthcare organisations from other countries cannot afford £60,000 for a brand-new ultrasound, but they are willing to pay £8,000 for your functional second-hand one; giving you funds that you can re-invest back into your patient services. In addition, selling your redundant medical devices through a resale agent removes the hassle of organising data wiping, WEEE disposal, removing the devices from site and presents your organisation with a cheque at the end of it all.

Why the Data-Wiping of End of Use Healthcare Equipment is So Important.

Ethics

The likelihood that data will be used unlawfully is extremely slim, but there is still a chance. So why is safeguarding personal data so important? Whatever size of organisation that you have worked for you are bound to have heard of the General Data Protection Regulation or GDPR. Any organisation can be liable for any data breaches and face a potential penalty of up to £500,000 from the ICO. It has been widely regarded as a European law by many of whom with which I have spoken. However, each member of the EU had to sign their own copy of GDPR law and the United Kingdom’s is called the Data Protection Act 2018. All legislation indicates that it is vital to ensure that all data is adequately wiped before an asset changes hands between businesses and it is the owners’ responsibility to make sure that this is carried out in full.

In my experience working for the largest medical device resale agent in the UK, I have heard about bio-medical equipment arriving on to site, where the hospital’s details were clearly visible on adhesive labels and Patient Identifiable Data was discovered on some of the items’ hard drives. On contacting the hospital in question, we able to ascertain from a very concerned employee that the whole consignment had been data-wiped by another provider. This just serves to illustrate that is essential to source a reputable data-wiping provider.

Before I even mention the various types of data wiping, the first thing that you should do is to make sure that you have the original operating system software, application software and all the associated licenses that accompany the item. This point is especially important if you want to be able to resell them and expect to recoup a decent proportion of your initial outlay. Any organisation that manages electrical assets of value should have all of this saved in a secure location and copies kept with the device. This is essential because data-wiping will require the device's hard drive to be partially, but more likely, totally wiped or removed and operating system reinstalled. The application software will also have to be reinstalled, which will require the license keys to activate it. However, you would be surprised how many large reputable organisations aren’t that organised! Experienced data-wiping providers who have handled a wide variety of different makes and models of medical equipment and they are more likely to have a back-up copy of the operating system and application software for that obscure piece of kit, that you are expecting to be worth tens of thousands of pounds.

There are a variety of ways to eliminate data permanently and this depends on whether you want to reuse the media where the data is stored. Here are a few techniques to securely delete your data:

1. Physical Destruction of the Hard Drive

The slightly over dramatic method of taking a drill to your mechanical hard disk is one of the most effective ways of stopping the retrieval of data from it, and it can be immensely cathartic as well. This is when making sure that you have that copy of the operating system handy, is especially important as you will have to install a new hard drive to the device, with the operating system and application software. Solid State Drives (SSDs) and optical media like DVDs and CDs should be destroyed physically, which usually involves a large shredder.

2. Over-Writing the Data Using Software

Data stored digitally is simply made up of 1's and 0's. Over-writing the data turns the sequence into regular or completely random sets of these, generally just a recurring sequence of 0's. This is the most common method of wiping data from a system, as it is the fastest and least destructive. However, this method is not the most secure if the data is only over written with a single-pass wipe. Most organisations that are wiping a large number of pieces of equipment will only carry out a minimal number of passes to save on time. So, make sure that you use a reputable organisation to that carries out at least a three-pass overwrite, you can even request a seven-pass overwrite if you want complete peace of mind.

Data cleansing is not a one size fits all process; it is recommended that you find an organisation that can employ all of the methods above to provide a bespoke solution to your project. Remember, do not be afraid to ask. All of the clinical engineers that I know are always more than happy to discuss at length the pros and cons of the various methods at their disposal, maybe sometimes a bit too happy!

Data-Wiping Certification

As an organisation you should be able to provide an audit trail of devices that may contain data and you should always make note of the serial number of the hard drive. Where ever data erasure takes place, in-house or by a third-party, certification should be provided to prove that the data has been overwritten effectively, hidden areas have been erased, a defects log list and list of areas that could not be overwritten. You will be provided at the end of the process with a ‘Certification of Sanitisation’ which presents a clear end to the audit trail. The loss of a hard disk from this audit trail could represent a clear data breach. It is thoroughly recommended that a data destruction specialist be employed who follows the applicable government standards such as HMG Infosec in the UK or the DOD standards in the USA. A good indication of whether a medical engineering and data-wiping provider is if they hold the BS EN ISO 13485 certification. This is the gold standard for clinical engineering services.

External Labels

Items that are not electronic can be easily overlooked, as they may have labels on that can identify the previous owner, for example a label stating that it is the property of hospital trust X. This is not a legal requirement for it to be removed, however, most publicly funded healthcare organisations will not relish any possibility of a discussion with the media on why are they selling equipment that is still working. If you trawl through eBay you will be sure to find medical equipment that has hospital labels still attached to them. Build a relationship with your data-wiping supplier and make sure that you enquire whether they carry out this level of detail. The higher quality medical equipment auctioneers have in-house clinical engineering departments and they will understand the importance of removing all any identifying labels.

Mobile Devices

A lot of hand held devices use fixed internal flash memory, which cannot be wiped without destroying the whole device. The revenue made from the sale of the item may not cover the cost of the data-wiping. It is very tempting to simply throw the item away at the end of its life, however, this would technically constitute a ‘data breach’ and reasonable measures would have to be taken by the healthcare organisation to let all parties know that their data may have been compromised. The item has to be cleansed of all data and a certificate issued, prior to disposal. To try to recoup some of the data-wiping costs, many organisations find it more cost effective to sell all items through a resale agent with sufficient clinical engineering capabilities.

Technological developments have rapidly moved towards the design of devices becoming more portable, which means the biggest threat to data is the theft of such a device. Mobile management device software controls all data across many devices and can ask a device to remove the data remotely. The data is rendered inaccessible on the device by overriding or purging the data. Other systems will wipe out the software encryption keys, making data impossible to be unencrypted. As discussed previously, these methods of overwriting data are not infallible, however, this provides an extremely effective first line of defence against theft, and offers peace of mind when handling large amounts of equipment.

Medical Equipment Leasing & Manufacture

Data protection is extremely important for manufacturers and distributors when moving on ex-demonstration stock. As well as for lease companies when medical equipment reaches the end of its lease cycle, as it will then either be moved to another leasee or sold. Return conditions on lease equipment generally include a clause stating that it is the customers’ responsibility to data-wipe all equipment prior to return, and to ensure that a valid data erasure certification is returned along with the item. Healthcare establishments have many administrative functions, however, organising data-wiping for an end of lease agreements is quite often overlooked. It is therefore advisable for the lease company to arrange for this themselves or use an asset manager who has in-house data-wiping capabilities. In some countries, lease companies offer the customer the choice of adding an ‘IT Asset Disposition services and data wiping’ service into their lease contract. Lease items need regular maintenance to keep them operational as part of any lease agreement. The company that carries out these Planned Preventative Maintenance Contracts (PPMCs) are often skilled in the data-wiping of the electrical bio-medical devices that they service. The required data-wiping at the end of the lease term can be written into these PPMC contracts and if this organisation is a medical equipment resale agent then you have a complete asset management solution for the item’s lifespan.

30 Years of The Hilditch Group
The Longest Running Medical Equipment Auctioneer In Britain

The Hilditch Group celebrate its 30^th anniversary this Summer, making it the longest running medical equipment auctioneer in Britain. Established in June 1990 by Mike and Nicky Hilditch, it has grown to be the largest auctioneer of healthcare equipment in Europe.

Working as a freelance auctioneer in the UK and South Africa, Mike was struck that the standards of professionalism varied considerably across auction houses, that anyone can call themselves an auctioneer with no formal training and no qualifications, leading to a disparity between companies and the level of service that they offered. Mike and Nicky made it their aim to establish the most professionally managed commercial auction house in the UK. Professionalism is very much still part of the company’s ethos today. The organisation was originally set up as a general and commercial salesroom; offering sales in plant and machinery, general household and antiques and commercial catering equipment. In the early days the organisation even held sales in horses, a throwback from Mike’s days working in livestock auctions. Starting with a modest 5 staff members, this quickly grew to 8 in the first year and now employs almost 50.

It was during the second year whilst clearing a kitchen for a local hospital, Mike noticed that whilst the hospital was happy to sell the catering equipment, they would, however, not permit the sale of redundant surgical trolleys, instead these were simply thrown into a skip. From that moment the seed of an idea was planted and the Hilditch Group started researching the medical market. At that time the majority of hospitals disposed of all their medical equipment, regardless of condition, due to a general fear of liability. It took several years for Hilditch as an organisation to persuade a handful of hospitals to consider the resale of their redundant medical equipment as an option. The equipment was sold to a large number of overseas buyers, who normally would not have been able to afford new equipment. As a result, huge quantities of equipment were given an extended life, landfill and recycling was reduced. These days the reasons for resale of medical equipment have taken on even more pertinence as we are all much more aware of the waste in our society. The expansion of the company was initially slow as NHS trusts took a long time to consider the implications of resale. The introduction of the WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) legislation sped the process up, as hospitals considered how they could reduce waste and fulfil their obligations.

As many new hospitals were built over subsequent years as part of the PFI initiative, resulted in large numbers of redundant assets being surplus to requirements. The Hilditch Group was invited to work with the Department of Health to promote the re-use of equipment as part of the NHS’ waste management strategy, as the Hilditch Group was able to offer a complete site clearance service, managing the sale and disposal of the entire contents of the old hospital sites.

Innovation has always been key to the company’s success, they were one of the first auction houses to offer Timed Online Auctions, developing their own bidding system years before any other auction house.

Mike also was involved in establishing the National Association of Auctioneers and Valuers (NAVA), an organisation dedicated to improving the professional status of auctioneers and upholding the highest standards of service delivery. Now a Fellow of the Association, he is very keen that his valuers take the NAVA exams and carry out regular CPD courses to improve their skills.

In the past 10 years the company has grown exponentially, expanding its customer base in the United Kingdom to include, not only most of the public and hospitals, but also manufacturers, banks and lease companies. The organisation has expanded into western Europe with offices in Spain (Hilditch Iberia), France and Germany.

The latest addition to the Hilditch stable is Hilditch Connect, bespoke valuation and asset management software for the healthcare sector. Hilditch Connect uses sales data generated from the thousands of individual sales carried out each month by the Hilditch Group and provides accurate residual values for 160 categories of equipment and it is peer reviewed by a specialist panel of Hilditch valuers. You could say it is the pinnacle of Mike and Nicky’s vision of developing the company to the height of professionalism.

Mike and Nicky have just stepped back from day-to-day running of the company, but are delighted that children Henry, Hugo and Prue have taken up the auctioneer’s gavel, continuing the Hilditch lineage within the organisation. Mike remarks; “there are exciting times ahead both in the UK and Europe and there are some excellent young staff rising up through the ranks to take the company forward for the next 30 years, I wish them all the best”.

The Hilditch Group continues to operate by staying within government guidelines. Here is a brief summary of how we continue to ensure a safe auction process:

Visitor - All visitors will be asked to wear a mask whilst on site. If you do not have your own mask, then a CE approved facemask will be provided to you. All visitors must sign in at reception, where details will be taken and held for 21 days, in line with Government guidelines for track and trace protocol. We ask that all visitors respect the 2-metre social distancing guidelines, even when wearing masks.

Online auctions – We are allowing a limited number of visitors onto site to place bids in person. Visits must be arranged prior to arrival to ensure the safe distancing of staff and customers. All of our auctions are held online, either via timed on-line or live webcast, and will remain unaffected, as will payments and billing. To ensure uninterrupted bidding on your items, we recommend that you please place all bids on-line.

Viewing –  Is by appointment only and must be arrange prior to arrival to ensure the safe distancing of staff and customers.

Collections – We have implemented a number of procedures to eliminate any possible contact between our staff and those in receipt of lots for collection. Please inform us in a timely fashion when you will be arriving to collect your items and make your presence is known at reception on arrival as normal.

We thank you for your cooperation and patience during this time.

Go Awards - The Show Must Go Online!

Communal gatherings and events have changed, at least in the short term, have had to adapt and utilise modern digital conferencing methods, however, through persevering indomitable spirit, they will continue!

The Hilditch Group are category sponsors for the Government Opportunities (GO) Excellence in Public Procurement Awards Wales 2020. The organisers have worked hard to ensure that this year’s ceremony will be live and online as a ‘virtual event’. The awards ceremony will be taking place this Friday, 19th of June, and will be completely on-line due to the current coronavirus restrictions, heralding the dawn of the new age. Sales Manager Barney Greig, will be presenting the award via web link. The Hilditch Group is proud to be taking part in one of the first steps towards the enlightened future.

The Hilditch Group have proudly worked with NHS Wales for almost 30 years to aid in the sale of their medical assets and help generate income to reinvest back into patient services.

The GO Awards Wales 2020, recognises the best in public procurement and will be showcasing some outstanding entries and the stories behind them. The Hilditch Group has sponsored the category of ‘Procurement Project of the Year with a project value above £20m’. The awards cover a wide range of healthcare procurement categories including:

• Social Value
• Best Service – Medium and Large Organisations
• Best Service – Micro and Small Businesses and Third Sector Organisations
• Best Environmental Impact
• Procurement Innovation of the Year–Taking the procurement function forward
• Procurement Project of the Year (sub £20m value)
• Procurement Project of the Year (above £20m value)
• Procurement Leadership of the Year
• Procurement Team of the Year
• GO Excellence Award

To find out more about the GO Awards please visit: https://www.goawards.co.uk/wales

The GO awards are in association with Procurex Wales 2020, which is Wales’ leading public procurement event and takes place at the Motorpoint Arena Cardiff on 24^th September. The Hilditch Group are also a sponsor of Procure Wales and will be also be exhibiting, so be sure to come and find us at stand 13.

Procurex Wales provides buyers across the public sector with an invaluable opportunity to meet with leading suppliers, who are actively delivering a diverse range of innovative products and services. The exhibition has always been a great opportunity for procurement teams from around Wales to get together to meet informally with key suppliers. The Hilditch Group have greatly enjoyed previously exhibiting at sponsoring Procurex Wales, and meeting with the contacts that they deal with day to day within NHS Wales for a relaxed chat.

The Hilditch Group is regularly contacted by clinics, both public and private, when they are expanding or upgrading their equipment. The Hilditch Group was approached by a private ambulatory eye surgery centre as they were upgrading their patient services and needed to get rid of their redundant equipment. Like many private clinics, this clinic was established by a group of hospital consultant surgeons, and it provides specialist advice, eye care and surgery for its patients.

The clinic was replacing the equipment in 3 of its consulting rooms and had already booked the installation of the new equipment. The clinic had arranged to be closed to the public for 1 day, creating a very specific time constraint for the de-installation of the redundant equipment and installation of the new equipment.

The Hilditch Group carried out an initial site visit to accurately value all of the equipment for sale, as well as to assess the engineering services required for de-installation.

Each room contained a full ophthalmic suite, comprising; chair, refractor and slit lamp, as well as OCTs and other specialist ophthalmic devices. The Hilditch Group’s medical engineers after arriving on-site had all the equipment de-installed and removed by mid-morning, allowing the new equipment to be installed in the afternoon and the clinic to resume patient services as normal the following day.

The equipment was transported by the Hilditch Group’s vehicles to the Hilditch warehouses in Malmesbury, where the items were lotted ready for sale. The devices that contained patient identifiable data were forensically data-wiped by the Hilditch Group in house medical engineering department, and certification provided to the clinic. To maximise the potential to advertise such specialist equipment to the correct audience, the equipment was listed alongside other ophthalmic equipment and sold through a timed online auction.

The Hilditch Group take no money up front, instead deduct any costs incurred once the lots have sold. The de-installation, collection and data-wiping charges came to £1,350, however, even with this amount deducted from the final auction value the clinic received over £2,000 in under 2 months from the date of the initial site visit.

“Our experience with the Hilditch Group went really smoothly. For this particular project we were bound to a tight one-day window for removal of the old equipment, with the new kit being installed on the same day to reduce down time. On the day the Hilditch engineers removed all of the equipment safely and well within the time constraints, even though there were some tight spots to negotiate! The sales process was very easy for us, from initial valuation and a site visit, all the way through to receiving the profits of the sale a few weeks later. We will be looking to use Hilditch’s services again in the near future, and will be recommending them to other clinics across the wider group.” Reports the Operations Manager.

The health care sector of any country is in a constant state of flux, as even in countries with a public health care system machinery and facilities have a finite life span and need to be routinely replaced. The worldwide average of money being spent on healthcare is 10% of a country’s Gross Domestic Product. The United Kingdom conforms to this average, the Republic of Ireland spends 8% of its GDP and with Germany tops the bill at 12% of GDP. Maintaining and replenishing a country’s medical estates and facilities is a highly grossing industry with £6.5 billion (€7.6 billion) being spent per in the UK alone.

There seems to be unlimited ways to spend money on building new facilities and the latest technological developments in bio-medical engineering. However, there does seem to be a shortage of advice on methods for sensibly reusing and recycling old medical devices and especially large imaging equipment and site facilities. This is not a highly grossing industry and one can only assume that this is not a glamorous one to be in either.

Even relatively small site clearances are expensive, but if you are clearing an entire hospital site the cost could easily be in the millions; with appropriate planning these costs can be moderated, and even off set, by the sale of any redundant assets. Every site clearance is different, there is no one single tried and tested method to ensure that everything runs smoothly.

We have compiled a list of our tops tips to help you replace old healthcare facilities, complete a successful site clearance and install large medical equipment:

Public Relations

The first step is always the most important, as this dictates the direction of the whole project and likelihood of a successful profitable out-come, as opposed to a project fraught with miscommunication and firefighting. The first step is not necessarily what you might think.

Before the first piece of equipment has been moved, plan or contract been put out to tender, public opinion should be taken fully into consideration. Strangely, the general public can be very attached to their old crumbling Victorian Hospital, with its draughts and dodgy plumbing. We have all seen countless cases in the media over the years where members of the public are up in arms, as they do not understand why the hospital needs to move to a new super-efficient site on the outskirts of town. It is highly recommended that a PR plan of action is created, to handle public relation issues. Now is the time for focus groups on which press release to go with!

Assessing The Project

When assessing what is coming out of a site, take the holistic approach and take stock the number of assets, their size, the logistics and time scales involved compared to their total worth. From this you can highlight the risks, potential liability issues, areas for potential financial returns. It is then possible to work out what the potential outcomes, objectives and key performance indicators the project will have, so that you can work out a rough budget to achieve your objectives.

Use an asset management company - Yes, this can be carried out by your team; however, this is often found be a very daunting prospect to orchestrate, as public hospitals generally do not have a dedicated project management team and this part is so pivotal to the entire project. Most health organisations use an asset management company to carry out an initial site assessment, they will provide broad recommendations at little or no cost.

Segment items early on - Divide both electrical biomedical equipment and all other other non-hospital specific equipment into categories; hospital owned useable, hospital owned redundant, non-transferring lease, donated and loan equipment. It is very easy to lump loaned and leased electrical bio-medical devices in with working equipment, only to find that the lease company is asking for their equipment back when you are in the middle of moving locations.

Create a framework - After all factors of the project have been considered a dedicated framework can be created for how the project will be carried out, by whom and tender specification drawn up.

Do not waste time and money on inventory compilation - Trusts waste hundreds of thousands of pounds every year on employing consultants to carry out inventories that are of little practical use when clearing old sites. If the assets are of minimal worth then this cataloguing of equipment is rendered null and void.

Get rid of all potential waste - Ascertain what is green waste, what is potentially hazardous waste, what has to be recycled, waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) as you will be disposing of potentially tons of equipment and furniture, much of which should be recycled.

Decontaminate - Are there areas that will need decontamination before contractors can come in? Decontaminants like asbestos and a leaky anaesthetic machine can pose life threatening hazards to an unsuspecting contractor.

Take into consideration ALL assets – All projects comprise of non-medical items, and every item, not just those of a medical nature, has to be taken into account of how it has to be dealt with or disposed of. Sufficient time will need to be allocated to sell or dispose of any additional assets, such as boilers, plant or radiography equipment and the hospital’s Estates Department will have to decommission these services.

Transferring Locations

A physical move of any description is complicated, and often reported as the most distressing event in any person’s life. It is often easy to focus on planning how patients and staff will transfer, and clearing the old site and equipment can be over looked.

Do not leave anything out of the Scoping Document - If you are clearing an old site and transferring over to a new site, then include the site clearance project in the initial scoping document of the new facility.

Emptying wards takes time - A clearance cannot commence until wards are empty; so, factor in contingency for potential delays with the new build that can result in staff not transferring when planned.

Buy only essential new equipment - Not all equipment can be transferred in the move as patient services need an uninterrupted service. New equipment will have to be purchased and old equipment left behind at the old site. This is especially relevant to fixed equipment such as magnetic resonance imaging machinery.
The old equipment left at the old site can then be sold.

Use the old site for storage – Once the last patient has moved successfully to the new site, you can take stock of what now needs to be done. The essential processes of the move have been done, so use the old site for the warehousing of the residual disused equipment.

Contracts

Contingency, contingency, contingency - If the site is being sold, then it is prudent to factor in a LOT of contingency when it comes to estimating delivery target dates. Not allowing enough time to vacate a site is a common occurrence and may well incur large penalty charges to the hospital. Do not, in any case, hand over the building to the demolition crew or its new owners the day after the last patient has left. You will have old equipment to sell, and this takes time, as auctions have to be held and buyers have to collect their items.

Be careful of the small print - Contracts often contain unrealistic expectations of what the hospital Trust has to deliver when vacating a site. There have been reports that include the sterilisation of areas that would normally not be considered hazardous and inaccurate definitions of what fixtures and fittings are included when selling on redundant assets, that can lead to time consuming disputes.

Clearing the site

Appoint a Clearance Manager – Someone who has sufficient seniority is essential to either make decisions or ensure that decisions are made quickly, as time is of the essence with clearances. The Clearance Manager should be someone who knows the site well, preferably from the Estates Department so that they can easily access information on the site services. A good coordinator, who can work with the clearance contractors and liaise with the appropriate hospital managers to resolve problems, is essential. It is highly recommended that the Project Manager NOT undertake this task, as they often have a multitude of responsibilities; a separate individual should be appointed whose sole purpose is to oversee the clearance of the site.

Appoint a dedicated clearance agent – Find a company that can remove items that have no worth, sell items that have worth and has the experience to know the difference between the two. Be wary of agents who offer to buy equipment out right for a single price, as you will receive far under the residual market value for the items. These agents will buy the items cheap from you and sell the items on at a profit for them selves.

OJEU - In order to take on a clearance agent you will probably have to issue an Official Journal of the European Union tender (OJEU), unless the value of the clearance is quite low. You should allow yourself plenty of time to evaluate the applicants; always ask for a minimum of 3 references. Always follow these references up as competition is stiff and, sad to say, there are unscrupulous traders out there. All Clearance Agents will tell you they are the best, but it is past results that really matter. Once you have signed with the agent you are stuck with them, so make sure that you are stuck with the right one.

Tip: Remember the contingency rule, if you want the best price for your redundant CT scanner then the longer the clearance and/or resale agent has to sell it, the higher the potential price as other hospitals may be interested in your equipment. This equipment may still have to be removed from site, so remember to factor in extra contingency time, and then double it.

Do not devalue your assets

Staff can save the project a great deal of money by following a few simple rules:

Keep track of ALL keys - Make sure that any keys to drugs cabinets, mobile x-rays etc. that are not transferring to the new site are securely taped to the item; without keys many items are worthless, but in almost every site clearance we have carried out, keys are not left behind. Attach any manuals or service records to the items.

Internal doors – Leave all internal doors unlocked unless it is essential that they are locked for safety reasons, other wise you will be scrabbling around for keys at the last minute.

Refrigeration – Things often are overlooked in closed refrigeration units and drugs cabinets are frequent recidivists. Mortuary clearance is large enough to be obvious, but don’t be the first.

Brief the IT department – At some point they will be going around the site removing hard drives from computers, and unless you are very careful they will remove the hard drives from all your redundant equipment, making it worthless, so brief them early. The realisation usually kicks just after you have just sold the item for thousands of pounds!

Work as a team

When one link in the chain of events breaks it has repercussions on everyone, from the staff nurse, to the patient transport manager, to the patients, the patients’ families and, of course, further down the line the clearance contractor and Facilities Department.

Focus on the task in hand

In order to cope with changes to the schedule, regular meetings with key personnel are essential. These should take place every day when the move is in full swing. However, the meetings should include those directly responsible for each relevant department and should be focused purely on the task in hand.

Be flexible

‘Plan for change’ rather than ‘change the plan’. Keep control of any change in circumstances ahead of time, rather than trying to muddle through, as this often leaves the project vulnerable to unpredictable cost escalations. Your team needs to be flexible as well, do not include anyone in your Project Team who is known to be difficult and doesn’t like change, you need Doers!

Security

You may feel the project is over and that you can move on, but any buildings and equipment is still your responsibility.

Breaking and entering - The site and the old disused buildings will attract much unwanted attention. We actually bore witness to a large number of people descending on the site designated for clearance and set up camp. In the 5 days that it took to get a court order to evict them, they had managed to strip most of the lead off the roof, tried hacking through a live cable to remove a generator and endangered the £200,000 sale of an MRI by cutting the power to the coil refrigeration. This was an extreme case, however, every single empty hospital site is an easy targeted,
so be prepared.

Hire security from the outset - External security is always an issue, but managing the removal of a large quantity of equipment, personnel and patients also creates issues that managers may not be anticipating. Trying to oversee so many contractors makes it difficult to stop theft, as it is easy either for a contractor to purloin equipment or, more likely, thieves masquerading as contractors, to take advantage of the increased activity and vehicle movements. Close supervision is imperative and this is not something that you want to have to manage yourself on a daily basis.

This far from exhaustive check list takes no account of the myriad of issues that will have to be resolved, however, we hope that we have steered you away from the major pitfalls that we have seen befall hospital site clearances and projects over the decades.

We realise a healthcare organisation's priority at this time is maintaining continued and uninterrupted patient services, we are offering you our uninterrupted support where we can in this challenging time. Our qualified and accredited medical engineering staff have extensive experience and provide a wide range medical engineering services and support for both on and off-site requirements. Our clinical engineering services include:

Long Term Maintenance of Medical Equipment

Our Planned Preventative Maintenance Contracts (PPMC's) provide clinics with the reassurance that their medical equipment is free of fault and working to the manufacturer's specification, reducing equipment downtime. PPMC’s are essential to ensure the smooth running of any medical establishment including GP, dental, veterinary practices, medical equipment lease companies and lease holders.

Equipment Testing & Condition Reporting

Using the most up-to-date test equipment our team of medical engineers will test all types of medical equipment and will provide a condition report accordingly to provide you with all details that you need to make an informed decision about your medical devices. This service is particularly useful for medical equipment lease companies and lease holders themselves to maximise financial return and minimise extraneous expense.

Medical Equipment Repair

We repair most types of medical equipment, offering a 72-hour turnaround on equipment brought to the Hilditch Group’s medical engineering department. Our engineers can also repair medical devices on location. Repairs follow a two-stage process; equipment is first assessed by our engineers and a report produced with a quote for the repair itself. Once the work is agreed by the client then the repair can be carried out. All of our repairs are guaranteed for 3 months.

Data Wiping

Our data cleansing service securely removes confidential patient identifiable data (PID) from medical equipment that complies with ICO Guidelines. Many medical devices have data stored on their hard drives. Simply destroying the hard drive renders the equipment unusable and hugely decreases the resale value. The Data Protection Act applies stringent rules to the sale of assets that may contain personal data therefore all devices that hold PID must be data wiped prior to any sale that we hold. We provide full certification for the data wiping services that we provide and we also offer secure collection and storage of equipment prior to processing.

Inventories & Assessments

Our medical engineers and valuers provide a complete inventory service, or can simply verify your current inventory and is designed to keep an over view on large amounts of medical equipment. Using our asset management system, we compile an inventory and barcode all your equipment, ensuring quick and accurate identification. Our system stores all test results for individual items of equipment and can automatically schedule our engineers to visit, ensuring that your equipment is always regularly serviced. Our inventory service includes the collation of large amounts of condition reports on equipment, useful life and current values.

Decontamination

We can carry out the decontamination of most types of medical equipment and facilities. This service has proven useful in the past for institutions such as nursing homes. Our fully certified contamination services comply with the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA DB2003(05)) standard.

Our medical engineering services are extensive so contact us at any time to discuss the variety of solutions we have for your medical engineering needs.

+44 (0)1666 822 577

sales@hilditchgroup.com

The Hilditch Group is a dynamic organisation and continues to adapt its services to meet the needs of all of our trusted buyers and vendors in line with guidance from the United Kingdom Government’s Department of Health and Social Care, Public Health England and the World Health Organisation. We will be keeping everyone abreast of the evolving situation as it unfolds.

As a specialist medical equipment provider that has grown over the decades, we are robust enough to have extensive systems in place to provide an uninterrupted service. We have implemented the following procedures to minimise the amount of potential physical touch points to negate any risk of cross contamination and infection:

• The collection of items for sale from vendors will carry on. We understand that every site has its own logistical idiosyncrasies, therefore, we will be liaising directly with each individual institution to agree specific collection requirements and work with hospital policies, respectively. We will strictly adhere to all protocols to ensure there can be no contamination brought into, or to leave the site. We understand that healthcare institutions are extremely busy at this time, therefore, we will try to operate with the utmost sensitivity.
• All of our auctions are all held online, either via timed on-line or live webcast, and will remain unaffected, as will payments and billing.
• Live webcast actions will carry on as normal, however, unfortunately we will not be allowing any one onto site to bid. So make sure that you log in on-line early to ensure that you have plenty of time to bid on the items that you want. Please remember to telephone in advance when leaving commission bids.
• The viewing of lots prior bidding unfortunately will not be allowed and all items are ‘sold as seen’. Therefore, be sure to email well ahead of time to liaise with our helpful staff who will be more than happy to give a description of selected items, answer queries or have the items checked by our medical engineers. These services are subject to the human resources being available. In certain instances, it may be possible to ‘facetime’ with our staff to get a live video of select items.
• The collection by buyers of purchased lots from site will carry on as normal, with a few minor alterations. We have procedures in place to eliminate any possible contact between our staff and those in receipt of lots for collection. Please inform us in a timely fashion when you will be arriving to collect your items and make your presence is known at reception on arrival as normal.
• We are offering additional storage for purchased lots until the restrictions on movement have been relaxed, as we understand that the transportation of large items can prove extremely difficult at present. Please contact us to find out more.
• We offer a wide range medical engineering services and support for both on and off-site requirements. Our experienced engineers can provide repair, maintenance and installation services, including the servicing of ventilators and other electrical bio-medical equipment. Our medical engineering team can conduct decontamination of stock and issue certification if required. Contact us for further information.

Please be considerate; we ask that when you do intend to collect your purchased lots that you abide by the Public Health England advice of social distancing.

Please contact us with any questions or concerns that you may have on:

+44 (0)1666 822 577

sales@hilditchgroup.com

Due to the growth in our business in the UK and Europe the monthly general medical equipment auction has been increased to a three-day live web cast auction.

Live webcast auctions will commence at 9am. Viewing of items is by appointment only and must be pre-booked, these are available from 8am on the day of auction.

Our first three-day medical auction starts on Monday the 13th of January.

The Hilditch Group - Re-Use Champions For 28 Years 

On the 30^th October 2019 the Building Better Healthcare magazine held their awards ceremony in London. This annual event recognises and rewards the amazing efforts being made to improve health and care services worldwide.

There were a plethora of categories covering innovation, architecture, people, products and services that are helping to transform patient care. The Hilditch Group came second in the ‘Best Recycle or Reuse Project’, narrowly missing out to this year’s winners the West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust and their ‘Return, Recycle, Reuse’ initiative.

The Hilditch Group was recognised for its achievements in changing the view on how hospitals handle their redundant medical equipment over the last 3 decades. Since 1990 the Hilditch Group has been at the forefront of the resale of redundant specialist medical devices which largely prior to this would have been sold for scrap. This has helped vastly reduce environmental impact; not only for reducing the amount of biohazardous material entering public and environmental circulation, but also helps companies fulfil their responsibility to the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive. This saves on the number of items headed for the landfill, and also saves waste managers’ time having to organise where this surplus equipment is stored or disposed of. This can also generate significant return for the health trust concerned to be able to plough back into patient services.

The Hilditch Group was praised for its involvement in charitable work over the decades, which is included in its business model. Particularly of note was Mike and Nicky Hilditch’s founding of the Amalthea Trust in 2006, with the specific aim to improve medical engineering projects in developing countries through training programmes, and the provision of test equipment and workshop facilities. The charity assists in developing training programmes by a number of means, either sponsoring UK engineers to visit hospitals in order to develop training programmes and train personnel, or providing funding for existing medical engineering departments to upgrade training facilities, as well as offering apprenticeships and sponsoring training in situ. Since its inception, the Amalthea Trust has grown to provide training programmes for bio-medical engineers in both Uganda and Ethiopia. Securing regular funding, the Amalthea Trust now only requires administrative support and a few charitable auctions from the Hilditch Group to keep the training going.

The West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust is a long-standing user of the Hilditch Group’s medical equipment resale services. Their ‘Return, Recycle, Reuse’ project promotes the return of community equipment. This social care equipment amnesty has saved around £3.5m in returned items, and was developed following patient feedback. The Trust’s excellent patient/hospital relations also gained them a win in the ‘Patients’ Choice’ category.

To find out more about the organisations mentioned in this article, please follow the links below.

Graduating from Swansea University in June of this year Henry joins our expanding team as an enthusiastic well-qualified medical engineer. After a brief stint over the summer working in Cheltenham Hospital’s medical engineering department he will be working with us full time. Producing condition reports and providing regular maintenance on bio-medical equipment, Henry is a vital addition to the Hilditch Group to help continue to provide our expert services to our ever-increasing client base of hospitals and lease companies.

To find out more about how the Hilditch Group can keep your bio-medical equipment serviced, contact the medical engineering department directly and consult one of our highly experienced engineers:

Email: medeng@hilditchgroup.com

Telephone: +44 (0)1666 822 577 

Sales representatives, Olga Zachary and Joanne Clark, from the Hilditch Group will be attending Medica on Monday and Tuesday 18^th and 19^th November. If you are attending Medica and belong to an organisation that uses medical equipment, then this is an ideal opportunity to arrange a meeting to discuss how you could reclaim residual value in your old medical equipment.

Located at the Düsseldorf Messe/Arena, in Germany, Medica is the largest medical trade fair in the world and attracts more than 5,100 exhibitors, from 70 countries across 17 halls. Medica promises to be a comprehensive conference covering all aspects of the medical sectors, there will be talks and forms hosted by leading industry professionals. Forums, presentations and discussions cover a variety of topics including; disaster and military medicine, connected healthcare, economy, technical aspects and laboratory.

To find out more about how the Hilditch Group can facilitate the resale of your disused medical equipment, contact us:

For more information on the conference, follow the link:
https://www.medica-tradefair.com/

Dumfries & Galloway Hospital Old Site Generating Income
From Old Disused Medical Equipment

Hundreds of patients and staff relocated from the former Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary to a new state-of-the-art facility with the same name over four days in December 2017.

This was a well-planned operation, and in order to ensure minimal disruption to the care that the Royal Infirmary provides a lot of the services, amenities and equipment needed to be in place before the movement of people began.

This method presents both problems and opportunities alike. A purpose-built site kitted out with new equipment, purchased specifically for the application, means that the highest standard of care can be given to the patients. This method also means that procurement of new equipment could be factored into the budget for the new site. On top of this, the resale of the equipment at the former hospital site, which has since been redeveloped as Mountainhall Treatment Centre, will generate significant revenue to support patient services.

A lot of equipment cannot be moved across to the new site as some of it has been installed in situ , such as dental suites that are fixed into a room. Some equipment is very fragile and the chances of it getting damaged with the move are quite high. Equipment like beds have a short lifespan and don’t retain material value, as buying new with delivery costs included is so cost effective. Also, all of the patient suites at the new Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary site are private single occupancy rooms, designed with the patients’ wellbeing in mind. The old ward style beds simply have no place in the new system. Some equipment has resided at the old site because essential services had to remain, right up until the last patient left the premises on Monday the 12^th December 2017. Along with the large variety of medical and nursing home equipment there is a large variety of high-quality commercial catering equipment that has provided sustenance for the patients, staff and visitors over the years.

The question is what to do with the surplus equipment that cannot be transferred across to the new site following the move? The Hilditch Group will be holding a public auction of this equipment on Wednesday the 13^th of November. Customers will not only come from Scotland, but all around the globe to purchase this vast quantity of quality equipment.

The medical equipment being sold from the old site will generally find its way to small hospitals and private trusts. Private distributors will buy used medical equipment, export and resell it to hospitals in countries where relatively cheap equipment is in high demand. As there is a large number of high-quality beds, furniture and fittings, this is ideal for smaller nursing homes to fit out their facilities. The large quantity of high-quality commercial catering equipment is ideal for fitting out small chains of restaurants and public houses as there is a range of similar items. For example there are several 10-grid combi-ovens, different types of refrigeration solutions and commercial serveries.

The four-day migration of staff and patients in 2017 was undertaken through a partnership involving NHS Dumfries and Galloway, the Scottish Ambulance Service, Dumfries and Galloway Council, police and fire services. It has been the biggest undertaking in the history of the Health Board.

With its honey coloured façade and stone finishes, the award-winning design of the new £212 million Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary the new site has successfully met its initial aim of satisfying the increasingly sophisticated healthcare needs of the region's ageing population. The concept was to keep the feel and atmosphere of that of a ‘garden hospital’, to fit in with the rural surroundings of the greenfield site it is situated on. The new site has 63,500sqm of space scientifically designed to emphasise the outdoor space to promote wellbeing of its patients. The new design ensures positivity of mind for staff and patients alike as there are 17 courtyards and gardens.

This holistic approach to patient respite continues through to the 344 en suite single-occupancy bedrooms, created to ensure privacy, allowing each patient to recover at their own rate. Social spaces are open and light, and have been designed to encourage public circulation and exercise, allowing interaction between staff and patients. The single occupancy rooms have allowed the new Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary to have a more flexible approach towards visiting hours. As such, there are no specific visiting hours and visitors are able to come and go as they wish.

The design of Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary houses day case and inpatient surgical suites, an emergency care centre, ambulatory care centre, specialist oncology, maternity and paediatric facilities. Sitting harmoniously amongst its surroundings, no wonder it won the Design Excellence Award at the Health Facilities Scotland conference.

98 Fully Equipped Dental Suites Available
Auction Ends Monday 7^th October

The Hilditch Group is hosting the auction of a huge number of dental suites from the Eastman Dental Hospital in North London. Bidding starts on Thursday 26^th of September and the auction ends on Monday the 7^th of October.

Of the 98 suites available, a large range comprise of market leading brands such as Belmont and A-dec, many of which are under 15 years old. As well the dental suites there are a large range of wall mounted dental microscopes, dental X-rays and orthopantomographs (OPGs).

This auction will be an unprecedented opportunity to purchase quality used dental equipment at a fraction of the costs that it would be to purchase new. As there are a large number of virtually identical dental suites available this auction is ideal for small and medium dental practices who are looking to expand or open practices on new sites. For those that are looking to cheaply replace old tired equipment with top of the range kit that shows brand continuity for your practice, this auction is ideal.

Please Note: Auctioned items are sold as seen; however, viewing is available upon request, please contact the Hilditch Group for more information.

This rare opportunity to pick up a large range of similar dental items is due to the services provided by this large University hospital being relocated to a new site with newly equipped facilities.

The equipment is located at the Eastman Dental Hospital at Gray’s Inn Road, North London. The Eastman Dental Hospital has been one of the UK's largest secondary and tertiary care providers of dentistry and treats around 85,000 outpatients annually. The Eastman Dental Hospital is world-renowned for its specialist services, which include cleft restorative clinics, ortho-perio clinics, orofacial pain, orthognathic clinics. 

The Eastman Dental Hospital will cease practicing at the Gray’s Inn Road site on the 25^th September and clinic will resume at their new location in Huntley Street on the 1^st of October, to be closer to their other University College London Hospital sites. The Hilditch Group are holding the Dental Clearance Auction from the 26^th of September until the 7^th of October. After this the site will be taken over by the University College London.

Once again, The Hilditch Group were principal sponsors of the Malmesbury Carnival, with residents and visitors lining the streets, it was a fun packed day enjoyed by all.

The theme for this year’s carnival was ‘television’! The Hilditch Group have been specialist auctioneers for the last 30 years, synonymous with the resale of medical equipment, our head of carnival operations thought it fitting that we maintain our medical mischief with a ‘Carry On Doctor’ themed float.

For the trusty Hilditch team the day started early, loading the float and making sure everything was safely secured. While the barbeque was being fired up, our team of tiny helpers decorated the float with fake blood and fancy-dress hospital themed paraphernalia. I am not sure these little helpers quite knew who Kenneth Williams or Frankie Howard were, but they Carried On Regardless all the same. With a belly full of barbeque grub, we were off to join the other floats for judging. Facing some stiff competition, we thought that we were not in with a chance of winning anything. First prize went to Crudwell Primary School for their excellent entry entitled ‘Pirates of The Curry Bean’, a pirate ship, decorated by the pupils from the primary school, and pulled by a tractor. With first place out of sight we hung our heads in shame and returned to our float. Only to find 5 minutes later that we were being presented with the Paul Dove Award for the ‘Most outstanding entry in the spirit of Carnival’, and we have an actual real live trophy to show for our efforts.

Jubilant with our success we began the procession with a new found festival spirit, joy in our hearts and with fat beaming smiles on our faces. The Malmesbury streets were packed with carnival revellers eager to see all of the wacky floats. We passed out sweets to the children of Malmesbury while coming under fire from a deluge of donations from the public.

The carnival has been a regular fixture on the streets of Malmesbury for over 100 years, receiving donations from principal sponsors, like The Hilditch Group, and donations in the form of mountains of money thrown onto the floats on the day. Last year the Malmesbury Carnival raised £17,000 for various local charitable causes around the Malmesbury area. To find out more about The Malmesbury Carnival and the wonderful charitable causes that they support, please visit their website: www.malmesburycarnival.co.uk

Over all the outcome was great and to see such huge volumes of crowds enjoy the fun packed day was even greater. We only had to dodge one shower, which didn’t dampen our spirits as the barbeque was still alight once the rain had passed. Needless to say, The Hilditch Group would like to thank all that participated and assisted in any way, shape or form; we could never have done this without you all. A huge thankyou goes out to the Hilditch Group staff, family members, their children and volunteers for their help and time in preparing the float. Good team effort! An extra special thankyou goes to all the carnival visitors, who lined the streets and created such a great atmosphere making this carnival an honour to be part of, the festival organisers and volunteers who made this a fun and safe festival for onlookers and participants alike. You all made this a momentous day of magical medical mishaps for the Hilditch Group’s staff and family members.

I am not sure whether The Hilditch Group can match the success of this year’s carnival next year, but we certainly will try!

Follow this link to take a look at the proud winners of the Paul Dove award featured in the Wiltshire and Gloucestershire Standard: https://www.wiltsglosstandard.co.uk/news/17873578.75-brilliant-photos-weekend-39-s-malmesbury-carnival/#gallery48

As the Hilditch Group continues to expand into the resale and auctioning of equipment from ever more diverse industry sectors, it has meant that June has been a busy month with 3 new staff members joining the sales and marketing department.

IT’S MIDNIGHT! MOST PEOPLE ARE ASLEEP! BUT NOT US!

Our tireless team of 5 walkers successfully raised £1,614.52 for Action Medical Research. They completed the gruelling 40-mile trek, up hill and down valley, along the Cotswold Way, starting at Midnight in Dursley and finishing at 4:30pm in Cheltenham. A support team of 4 dedicated volunteers cheered them on along the way, driving to each checkpoint to keep them supplied with food and drink over tortuous 16 and a half hours.

To find out more about this wonderful cause visit: https://action.org.uk/events/trekking/trek-night

There is still time to donate to our Just Giving page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/hilditchhammers

The UK Imaging and Oncology Congress 2019

The Hilditch team are visiting UK Imaging and Oncology Congress, Tuesday the 11th June at The ACC & Exhibition Centre in Liverpool.

For your chance to talk to us about the re-sale of medical imaging equipment in the United Kingdom and across Europe contact us: barneyg@hilditchgroup.com and 07545 644400.

The UKIO is the premier conference for all individuals that are involved in the field of radiological science and radiation oncology. This annual three-day event attracts over 2,000 attendees and promises to be both innovative and varied, covering the widest range of related topics in the UK.

Paris Healthcare Week 2019

Hilditch France will be exhibiting at Paris Healthcare next week, 21^st to 23^rd May @ Paris Expo Porte de Versailles.

Pop by stand J40 to visit Robert Lewis, Frederic Poignon and Joanne Clark, they’ll be happy to answer any questions or just have a chat!

Paris-Roubaix 2019

Our very own Alex Willis is due to take part in the historic Paris-Roubaix cycling challenge this coming weekend!

The professionals will race on Sunday, but Saturday gives amateurs the chance to ride the course. The 178km, with over 50km of that on the cobbles, should take about 6-6.5 hours for the amateurs to complete. Thankfully, there’s no rain forecast for the weekend in Northern France!

Then, on Sunday, Alex will get to watch the professionals with some chips and a beer. Good luck Alex. Hopefully, you’ll come back injury free!

Hilditch Expands into France!

We’re delighted to announce that Hilditch France is now open for business!

Headed up by Robert Lewis, Hilditch France is based in Paris and includes two official auctioneers affiliated with Drouot, ensuring the legality and compliance of the auction sales process.

Joining Hilditch Iberia in Spain, and Hilditch Germany, Hilditch France is part of an ever-growing European presence by the Group.

The French company has its own website at www.hilditch.fr where both vendors and buyers can find out more about Hilditch, request free valuations, register to bid and contact the company.   

Hilditch France is now helping many French hospitals with their medical equipment disposals, as well as attracting more buyers to benefit from the new operation.

The first official Hilditch France sale is now live on our sale page and can be found here

We look forward to welcoming many more new vendors and buyers to our fast-growing client base in France.

Hilditch Walk for Charity

On June 1^st, four members of the Hilditch Group team will be taking part in the Trek the Night challenge.

Trek the Night is a 40-mile midnight walk across the Cotswold Way. Rob, Andrew, Danny and Jamie will be donning their walking gear and lacing up their walking boots to raise money for Action Medical Research for Children.

Action Medical Research for Children are a charity that seeks to help defeat diseases that devastate the lives for sick and disabled babies, children and young people. They have been battling since their inception in 1952 and have received support from thousands, including Paddington Bear!

Training has already started for the walk as the team met up recently to practice. It only took them a mile to get lost but they eventually found their way.

If you’d like to donate and help them reach their goal, you can follow this link. It will take you straight to the donation page. Thank you for the support!

Hilditch Support EBME Conference and Exhibition 10^th Anniversary

We’re proud to be sponsoring and exhibiting  at the 10^th anniversary of the EBME (Electronic and Biomedical Engineering) conference and exhibition in April this year. 

The EBME conference, which was first held in 2009, improves healthcare through the sharing and application of knowledge from experienced professionals involved in the management of healthcare technology.

The Hilditch Group will once again be at the show, which will this year be held in a larger venue, open for two days, and will focus on medical equipment and maintenance on day one, and medical equipment planning and connectivity on day two.  For more show information, please visit www.ebme.co.uk/home/press/ebme-expo-3rd-4th-april-2019

Hilditch Awarded Cyber Essentials Plus Accreditation

Following a rigorous assessment, The Hilditch Group has been awarded Cyber Essentials Plus, the higher of two government backed certifications to demonstrate IT security, protecting all information held within the business.

The Cyber Essentials Plus certification process comprises remote and on-site vulnerability testing, proving to be a far more rigorous assessment than required for the basic certification. An off-site external assessment looks for vulnerabilities within the scope of external threats, workstations on-site are examined along with mobile devices for protection, encryption and access, and other tests mean that completion of the assessment can be lengthy.

Holding this certification helps to prevent and minimise any potential cyber security breaches, and demonstrates to both vendors, buyers and business partners who work with Hilditch that the security of their information is taken extremely seriously.

The Cyber Essentials Plus certification is mandatory for government contracting and is a recognised symbol for safe businesses in the United Kingdom, providing reassurance to all clients working with Hilditch that their data is secure.

January 2019

The Hilditch Team Keeps Growing!

We have welcomed a new Trainee Auctioneer and Valuer at Hilditch HQ.  Alex Willis joins us from the world of cycling, where he managed a ‘tailor made’ bike fitting service.  Alex is passionate about customer care, and brings a huge amount of energy and charisma to Hilditch – he’s sure to be a great asset to the team!  He’ll become a familiar face on sale days, ensuring that our sales run smoothly and efficiently.

Hilditch Medical Engineering Keeps Growing!

Hilditch continues to expand as we welcome another engineer to our ranks. Marcus Nicholson joins us after spending just over two years as a lab technician at a college in Bermuda.

Marcus hails from Walsall and spent his university years at Swansea studying for a BEng in Medical Engineering, followed by an Msc in Nano Technology.

Marcus is a lover of music and a talented musician. He can play the drums, guitar, bass AND sing. On top of his music love, Marcus is a keen writer and is currently in the process of writing his own novel.

Two-Day Webcast Sale in January

The new year two-day medical sale starting on Monday 14^th January 2019 will feature live webcast bidding on both days, making thousands of lots even more accessible to our buyers. We're also adding more webcast sales into the diary, and have an additional sale for nursing home equipment coming up, so watch this space.

We understand that our buyers have busy lives, and sometimes find it difficult to attend sales in person. By allowing both sale days to be available online, we can make the entire sale more accessible and convenient for you. This means you will have more control over your bidding options and you won’t miss out on items if you aren’t able to visit.  Webcast sales do tend to be faster paced than live sales, so please be prepared for speedy bidding and updates if you're taking part.

The saleroom will still be open on both days for people who would like to bid in person and viewings can still be arranged prior to the sale.

Helping Your Auction Purchase Run Smoothly             

Auctions can be a hectic environment, so we’ve put together some points for you to consider before, during and after the sale day. So, whether you’re a seasoned bidder or a relative newcomer to the world of auctions, read on for a few handy hints. 

Research what you want to bid on before the auction begins. Sale days start at 10am, but we’re open from 8:30am. Get in early and have a look at the catalogue for the day, or just go online and have a look through the website. Items will be sold in order of lot number so you can keep track of which items are coming up.

If you can’t make it to the sale, you can always follow the auction on our website. If you can’t do either, you can leave a commission bid and we’ll bid on your behalf. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered for every eventuality.

It’s also worth remembering that we regularly host online only sales on our website. Typically, online sales feature higher value equipment, and items that are being sold from the vendors site. If you’re bidding in an online auction, you’ll need to register. Registration information is available here.

Online sales typically last at least a week, giving you more than enough time to get your bids in. You can also enter the maximum amount you are willing to pay and the system will bid on your behalf. Please keep an eye on your email, just in case you end up being outbid. Don’t worry about someone outbidding just seconds before the auction closes as the system will extend the finishing time to allow others to get their bids in too.

Before you win your item, it really is worth thinking how you’re going to transport it to where you need it. Medical, catering and even some general items are usually rather large and won’t just simply fit in the back of a car. Items need to be collected within five working days, so it’s worth having transport planning in mind while you’re bidding for an item. Items held by Hilditch for more than five working days will start to incur storage costs. We have a list of shipping companies on our website for those who don’t have a contact already.

Now you should be auction ready. Remember, planning is everything.

Buying Used Medical Equipment from Hilditch Just Makes Sense!

Unlike other auction sites and web portals, Hilditch Medical Auctions offer buyers the chance to buy medical equipment that has been checked by our experienced medical engineers. All items at auction are sold as seen, but at Hilditch you can get added peace of mind by checking that the item has a full Condition Report, supplied by a qualified medical engineer.  

Hilditch offer a range of medical equipment, from anaesthetic machines and defibrillators to CT scanners and X-ray equipment. Whatever you’re buying, it’s reassuring to know it’s been checked. And that’s where Hilditch go the extra mile. Condition Reports are often available for medical equipment and can be requested prior to purchase, giving buyers additional information about the item they're interested in. We can even supply a condition report post-purchase and we recommend that if you are seeking this, that you contact our Sales or Engineering Department at your earliest opportunity. The Condition Report will detail the extent of the checks – it does not guarantee the equipment in any way.

Please let us know if you are looking for a particular piece of equipment, and take a look at the full range available on our sale pages. 

Why You Should Buy Catering Equipment at Auction

Catering equipment is said to be the second largest expense of any food outlet – not surprising when you consider what the start-up cost for a new restaurant might be, and this will vary considerably depending on the size and type of restaurant that is planned. So how can these costs be reduced?

The restaurant trade is challenging and extremely competitive, with new sites opening and existing sites closing on a daily basis. This churn in the hospitality trade makes it possible to access some great products at auction.

Buyers can benefit from being able to purchase goods which might previously have been outside of their budget, accessing catering equipment which is in perfect working order – anything from an industrial mixer to a professional coffee machine. At Hilditch we often have items available which are previously unused, such as pan and cutlery sets, and a wider offering such as furniture and storage kit.

Please let us know if you are looking for a particular piece of equipment, and take a look at the full range available on our sale pages. 

Hilditch.de is Now Live!

Hilditch are proud to have launched a new website for German speaking vendors and buyers. We have been working with contacts in Germany for a number of years, and have established ourselves as a key partner for selling and buying used medical equipment.

Please take a look at the new German website here.

Come and See Us in Berlin!

Hilditch are exhibiting at the Beschaffungskongress der Krankenhäuser in Berlin this week. Olga Zachary and Keeley Vernon will be happy to welcome you to the Hilditch stand to discuss your medical equipment, and will be at Hotel de Rome on 5^th and 6^th December.

More information about the event can be found here.

Hilditch Pen Donation

Hilditch have donated a box of our freshly designed pens to the GL11 Community Hub.

These pens will come in handy for the organisation, that is looking to seek out responses to their feedback forms. Hopefully, these responses will provide GL11 with vital information about their services.

GL11 offer a wide variety of services to the community. These range anywhere from seated yoga sessions, to tablet computing. They run sessions for families as well as individuals and more information can be found at http://www.gl11.org.uk/. When you're over there, be sure to check out their autumn what's on guide. It'll give you everything you need to know about their upcoming events.

Braving the Weather for Children in Need

Sponsored by Hilditch, our intrepid Accountant Rhiannon and friend Jodi took on a challenging climb this month.

Fundraising for Children in Need, Rhiannon and Jodi set off to scale the heights of Pen y Fan in the Brecon Beacons National Park. The weather closed in and unfortunately, Rhiannon and Jodi were forced to return to base before they could reach the summit – the wind and fog made staying upright and visibility very tricky!

Rhiannon and Jodi won’t let a small set back put them off the challenge – they have already committed to completing it in April 2019, so watch this space. Congratulations for taking on the challenge and raising money for such a good cause!

Hilditch Join Forces with Malmesbury River Valleys Trust

Hilditch are really proud to announce that we are sponsoring the bird feeding stations at Conygre Mead for Malmesbury River Valleys Trust.

We are always looking for new ways in which to help our community and sponsoring the bird feeding station will allow for our local aviary population to continue flourishing. Staff from Hilditch will regularly be visiting the stations to refill them.

Hopefully, the birds of the area will benefit over the colder winter months.

Malmesbury Fireworks 2018

For the third time, Hilditch are sponsoring the Malmesbury fireworks display which is being held at St Aldhelm’s Mead.

It promises to be an enjoyable occasion for all. The date for your diaries is Saturday 3^rd November. Proceedings will kick-off at 6:15pm with the lighting of the bonfire by our very own Andrew Metcalf. The fireworks are expected to start around 7:00pm.

Tickets can be purchased on the door. We’re looking forward to seeing you all there.

London Vet Show 2018

Hilditch are pleased to be exhibiting at this year’s London Vet Show at Excel London. This event is Europe’s largest veterinary exhibition and this year, the show is bigger than ever.

We’re lucky enough to be showing over both days on Thursday 15^th and Friday 16^th November. Please come and visit us at stand G42, situated in the heart of the main hall. We're excited to see you there.

Procurex Wales 2018

Hilditch are looking forward to exhibiting at Procurex Wales 2018 on 8^th November. This event is Wales’ Premier Public Procurement Event of the Year, and promises to be a great opportunity to meet with existing and new contacts from public procurement in Wales and beyond. You’ll find us on stand 86 as you enter the exhibition – we look forward to meeting you there.

Hilditch Sponsors Winning Rugby Club!

Dursley Ladies Rugby Football Club triumphed as overall winners in the ladies category at the Barcelona Rugby Festival in Spain last week. The team, sponsored by The Hilditch Group Ltd, beat tough international competition, finishing first overall.

Rhiannon Smith, a member of the Accounts team at Hilditch, plays in the all-important fullback position in the team, and commented on the intense competition in which over 1,000 players took part “it was fantastic to compete in the festival, and even better to win! All the team are delighted – we couldn’t do this without the kind support of our sponsors”.

Congratulations to Rhiannon and the rest of the team!

Click here for more information about the festival, and Dursley Ladies Rugby Football Club.

02.10.18

Hilditch Achieves Cyber Essentials Certification

Hilditch are committed to ensuring that their systems are fully guarded against common cyber threats. This not only applies to the systems themselves, but also the way in which the teams at Hilditch operate within these systems.

The commitment to protecting the Hilditch Group against cyber-attack has been demonstrated and acknowledged by achieving the Cyber Essentials Certificate, awarded by the Government’s National Cyber Security Centre.

Vendors and buyers alike have always been reassured by the measures that Hilditch takes to protect their data, and this is now formally recognised through the certification. This, along with our commitment to Information Governance and high scores achieved for the NHS Information Governance Toolkit, make Hilditch a safe choice for both vendors and buyers alike.

Hilditch Entertain at the Malmesbury Carnival

On Saturday 1^st September 2018, Team Hilditch joined in with the annual Malmesbury Carnival procession with their float entry ‘Hilditch Around the World’.

The Team showcased their entry of a float decorated to depict various landmarks around the world, and dressed in outfits from different countries – representing the varied nationalities of buyers and sellers that Hilditch works with. The team were joined by family members, creating a great atmosphere for all.

Besides being the main sponsor of the Malmesbury Carnival, the Hilditch Team collected money during the carnival procession for local good causes, giving back to the community in which the business, and many of the team members live.

Hilditch Sponsor Town Flower Festival

Hilditch are delighted to be sponsors of the annual Malmesbury in Bloom event, supporting the town where the headquarters are based.

This year sees a stunning display of flowers right across the town, from roundabouts to flower baskets and dedicated areas of colourful flowers and plants.  The event provides enjoyment for locals and visitors alike each year, complementing the already scenic town which is popular with tourists.

Danny O’Brien Receives IOSH Award

Danny O’Brien, Online Sales Supervisor at Hilditch, has recently been awarded certification validated by IOSH, the Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, for ‘Managing Safely’.

IOSH Managing Safely is a risk management health and safety certificate allowing managers to demonstrate their understanding of the practical actions needed for the health and safety of their teams.

This certification supports the commitment of Hilditch to health and safety standards and demonstrates recognition of the importance it plays in the workplace.

The Hilditch Group App is Live!

With service to our vendors and buyers at the heart of everything we do here at Hilditch, we’ve developed an App to showcase available lots to buyers on the go. This new innovation sets us apart from competitors, strengthening our reputation for streamlining the process of asset disposal and purchase, and making information more easily accessible to all involved.

The mobile app makes it simple for vendors to track the sale of products and allows users to sign in and effortlessly select a sale category. Users are then able to search lot listings, bookmark and ‘watch’ lots to monitor progress, and bid online. Along with ‘Watched Lots’, ‘Recently Viewed Lots’ can be seen in the Activity tab, and additional information can be found in the Hilditch Information section – these options, along with Account information, are all accessible using the menu bar at the foot of each page.

Please take a look at the App and let us know what you think – we’d love to hear your feedback.

Reassuringly Governed Information

Hilditch works with the majority of NHS Hospital Trusts throughout the UK, and since its inception in 1990 has built a reputation for responsible data management. As the market leader in the resale of medical and healthcare assets, we treat the identification and wiping of any residual patient and confidential data with the utmost care.

Since February 2016, we have consistently achieved an extremely high score for compliance with The NHS Information Governance Toolkit - a Department of Health (DoH) Policy delivery vehicle that the Health and Social Care Information Centre (HSCIC) is commissioned to develop and maintain.

The toolkit draws together the legal rules and central guidance set out by DoH policy and presents them in in a single standard as a set of information governance requirements. Assessments are available online for anyone to check.

The NHS has stringent procedures in place with regards to the handling of patient data and sensitive information, and the IG Toolkit accreditation assures them that we, as resellers, abide by their strict code of conduct and reflect those stringent procedures.

We are proud to say that Hilditch meet required criteria and are able to provide this reassurance to NHS Trusts who wish to sell equipment. Our commitment and participation in The NHS Information Governance Toolkit sets us apart from competitors and offers peace of mind to vendors, making Hilditch a preferred service provider to the NHS.

Hilditch Driver Teams Up For Cycling Fundraiser

Nick Lockett, one of Hilditch’s professional drivers, has completed a 24-hour bike ride as part of a team to raise funds for his local community. A total of 75 laps of almost seven miles each were completed in 24 hours - the highest number of laps in the events 27-year history.

Tetbury Velos cycling club raised over £2,000 for a local community centre and school, to benefit young people in the area. While this was a team effort, one member chose to cycle individually and completed 40 laps, the equivalent of 268 miles!

Hilditch were proud to provide sponsorship support to Nick and his team, and congratulate them on their achievement, cycling on one of the hottest weekends of the year.

URGENT APPEAL: VOLUNTEER ENGINEER PLACEMENT OPPORTUNITY IN UGANDA

The Amalthea Trust is seeking two volunteers to provide training in two separate projects. One engineer is needed to train engineers at The Ugandan Blood Bank in Kampala on the servicing of basic laboratory and pathology equipment, with another engineer required to Train The Trainers at a University in Ethiopia on ultrasound and anaesthesia.

Each of these courses run for two weeks in total - with a possibility to split the training into two, one-week courses if timing is an issue. The courses are due to take place mid-end July 2018.

The Trust’s work really does help to change lives for the better – providing much needed skills to communities who are in great need of reliable, properly maintained medical equipment to help deliver health care directly to those who need it most.

For more details, visit the Amalthea website and take a look at Current Projects. Whilst on the site, take a look at the Volunteering video and have a read of the feedback the Trust have had from some of their NHS engineer volunteers, it really is a life affirming experience!

Hilditch Gains MIA Accreditation

Hilditch have recently achieved Medical Industry Accreditation (MIA). This means that, for our work with the health care sector, our engineers hold ID cards to show they are qualified and professionally trained to work in the clinical environments of private and NHS hospitals nationwide.

This accreditation sets Hilditch apart from other service providers in our field and gives assurance to healthcare professionals that suppliers are properly trained and qualified for attendance on-site. The external training courses that make up the scheme have been fully accredited by established bodies including the Association for Perioperative Practice, Royal College of Nursing and BTEC.

The Hilditch Group’s commitment to vigorous levels of compliance enables NHS Trusts and hospitals to act with confidence when selling used medical equipment.

Medical Imaging Convention 6-7 June 2018

Exhibiting at the UK’s dedicated trade show for medical imaging professionals and senior management teams, Hilditch are once again showcasing how it can provide solutions to this group of professionals.

The Medical Imaging Convention is the UK’s dedicated event that offers a comprehensive program on the latest innovations in imaging diagnosis and treatment to UK-based medical imaging professionals and their senior management teams. The event provides the most up-to-date research, data and developments that can enable better patient outcomes, efficiency and cost-effectiveness in UK medical imaging.

Hugo and Andrew would love to welcome you to the Hilditch stand.

World Environment Day 2018

It's World Environment Day, and there is a lot of coverage about the problem with plastic. Though that's not the only material that we should be looking at.

The Hilditch Group Ltd facilitate the reduction of medical and commercial equipment waste, promoting re-use of products and re-cycling wherever possible. So, customers and vendors who deal with Hilditch are not only taking care of their budgets, they are also taking care not to provide additional environmental burden and stress.

Take defibrillators for example – older bulky models are replaced by smaller, modern kit, yet the original models still save lives, and do the job they’re meant to do. Large equipment such as mobile C-Arm imaging devices – the list goes on. Hilditch manages the sale of older models to create a revenue for the vendor and allows buyers to purchase products which may otherwise be beyond their budget. And it’s not just medical equipment – the resale of catering products allows downsizing business to help recoup their spend, and new businesses working within a tight budget to get their venture off the ground.

The process is good for the seller, good for the buyer, and good for the environment by helping to divert products away from landfill. Reduce, reuse, recycle – good for all.

Paris Healthcare Week

The Hilditch team are visiting Paris Healthcare week on Wednesday 30^th and Thursday 31^st May 2018 – Joanne Clark and Robert Lewis would be happy to meet and have a chat about your medical equipment requirements, whether you're selling or buying - just let the sales team know at sales@hilditchgroup.com and we’ll get back to you.

Hilditch Sponsor Local Cricket

The Hilditch Group are sponsoring James Smith, Online Sales Cataloguer, for the 2018 cricket season where he plays for Royal Wotton Bassett Cricket Club.

Royal Wotton Bassett have a first team which play cricket in the Wiltshire Division of the West of England Premier Cricket League and are a very well-respected team.

James plays in the third team, which is in division six of the Wiltshire Cricket League – he also occasionally plays in the second team, in division five. He is a very keen cricketer and all-rounder; batting in the top five, keeping wicket and occasionally bowling the odd over or two.

James is also highly involved in the club’s youth coaching set up, which helps bring on youth players to develop their skills and play senior cricket, opening up cricket to a wider audience and helping to secure the future of the club.

Hilditch Exhibits at NCRM

Hilditch Group Ltd are proud to be exhibiting at the 8^th National Conference for Radiology Managers (NCRM) on 24^th May this year.

Philips and the Society and College of Radiographers are collaborating to deliver the conference, bringing together radiology managers and clinical directors. A series of lectures and debates will centre around the theme “Leading the Way: bringing your workforce with you”.

Hilditch will be exhibiting as part of a full networking exhibition of companies who provide solutions and support to the imaging community, which is running alongside the programme. With our depth of knowledge and years of experience working with radiology and clinical professionals, Hilditch is able to provide a host of solutions to assist the function.

The conference is free to attend and we look forward to welcoming visitors to our stand.

Hilditch Group and Amalthea Trust Exhibit at EBME Seminar 2018

The Hilditch Group are proud to once again support, and exhibit at, the EBME Seminar 2018.

With over 27 years trading and relationships with the majority of NHS trusts, we always enjoy meeting with all the familiar faces at the seminar.

Do please call past the stand to discuss how we can assist you in the sale of your medical assets, or just to say hello. We work with the NHS as an impartial sales agent in the valuation and sale of used medical devices and imaging systems, and work closely with NHS Trusts to provide advice and market commentary.

The EBME Seminar brings together a great community of healthcare professionals that are responsible for the management of medical equipment, and the supporting industry for a day of learning about new developments and networking.

The Amalthea Trust will also be represented on our stand. Amalthea’s objectives are to help provide for the sustainable maintenance of medical equipment through the provision of training programmes for the recipients, including test equipment and workshop facilities. Do please call past to discuss the charity's work - they are always looking for volunteers to train engineers in their programmes or to assist the charity.

For more information on our services contact us today on 01666 822 577 or email sales@hilditchgroup.com, or come and see us at the EBME Seminar.

Our Secret Sales Weapon 

Great to see our medical engineering department in the spotlight - in the current issue of Scope, the membership magazine for the Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine (IPEM). 

Revealing why we’re so much more than an auction house, this feature highlights our unique capacity to improve upon the market value of used medical equipment, as well as manage and maintain these assets. 

Click on the magazine image to read how Hilditch has become a trusted and valuable service provider to private and NHS hospitals, thanks to our highly skilled team of medical engineers. 

Read by the top 4,000 physicists and engineers in the medical sector, Scope magazine provides an invaluable resource for news on cutting edge technology and procedures, with shared information and working knowledge between the physical science, engineering and clinical professions.

A Commitment to Compliance: Why Our Professional Standards Matter

The Hilditch Group has been audited and achieved accreditation for the very latest international quality standards, for ISO 9001 (2015), ISO 13485 (2016) and ISO 14001 (2015).

We are committed to providing a high level of service, ensuring all who work with us benefit from robust legal and professional compliance.

Setting the Bar

Following 28 years of high operating standards, we have become the market leading healthcare asset managers. Hilditch handles medical device valuations and sales, with our team acting as trusted equipment sales agents for NHS and private hospitals.

We’re very proud to be the biggest used medical device and imaging system auctioneer and sales agent in Europe, selling over 2,000 lots in more than 30 specialist auctions every month.

As the only auctioneers to offer a medical engineering department, we are able to add incomparable value to the sale of used equipment, by providing servicing and condition reports, which are ISO 13485 compliant.

Data Wiping

Alongside value, the issue of data protection is also crucial to medical vendors. Many pieces of medical equipment have data stored on their hard drives, which if not fully removed, could result in heavy fines.

We stand alone in being the only NHS IG registered auctioneers, offering a data wiping service using HMG Infosec: the highest security standard for government computer systems.

Working in Hospitals

As suppliers to the NHS, our medical engineering team carries Medical Industry Accredited (MIA) identification, meaning they are professionally trained to work in the clinical environments of private and NHS hospitals nationwide.

The Hilditch Group’s commitment to vigorous levels of compliance enables NHS Trusts and hospitals to avoid risk when selling used medical equipment.

To take advantage of our informed advice and valuation expertise, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Combien de lots d’une vente aux enchères de Hilditch pourrait-on lancer vers Mars dans une fusée ?

Nous avons plus de 1000 lots ce mois-ci !

Heureusement, c’est une question à laquelle nous n’avons pas besoin de répondre.

Préparez-vous au décollage à 9h lundi 12 février, quand il sera possible d’enchérir en direct via webcast dans notre vente aux enchères de matériel d’endoscopie (vente 1733).

Le lendemain, mardi 13 février, nous allons lancer directement notre vente aux enchères de matériel médical (vente 1734) avec la possibilité de remettre une enchère écrite, ou alors d’assister à la vente.

De plus, les lots suivants seront bientôt mis en ligne :

Scanner Siemens Somatom Sensation 16

Mammographie GE Senographe Essential

Tables d’Opération Eschmann T20A x 6

Amplificateur de brilliance OEC 9800 (mis en service 2005)

Notre vente aux enchères de plus de 100 lots de matériel médical est maintenant en-ligne, dont un Zeiss S7 OPMI 150 & 160, un GE Voluson S6, des Draeger Evita XL, des Hamilton Galileo et des Fresenius 4008. Cette vente prend fin le 15 février.

Pour nous tous les voyants sont au vert ! Ne ratez pas les appareils rares et très recherchés qui seront disponibles très prochainement.

Convention d’Imagerie Médicale

Nous sommes heureux d’annoncer que nous aurons un stand à la Convention d’Imagerie Médicale le 6 et le 7 juin 2018, en tant que l’un des principaux revendeurs d’équipement d’imagerie en Europe.

La Convention d’Imagerie Médicale est le plus grand salon des radiographes, des échographistes, des décideurs et d’autres professionnels dans le secteur d’imagerie médicale en Grande Bretagne. Cet événement répresente la meilleure opportunité de voir les innovations dans des secteurs tels que le cancer, l’AVC, la démence et le traumatisme majeur. Les visiteurs ont l’opportunité de voir non seulement les dernières technologies qui façonnent l’avenir de l’imagerie médicale, mais aussi de parler à leurs créateurs, qui sont les visionnaires de la santé. L’accès à cet événement est totalement gratuit. Visitez www.imagingconvention.com afin de réserver vos billets gratuits.

Nous vous invitons à venir rencontrer notre équipe. Nous serons situés au stand 9046 – venez nous voir !

L’équipe de Hilditch continue son expansion – bienvenue Vicki Disney!

Toute l’équipe souhaite la bienvenue à Vicki, qui vient de nous rejoindre. Avec l’activité de l’entreprise en croissance nous apprécions un coup de main supplémentaire !

Vicki a le rôle important d’Administratrice du bureau des ventes et elle possède une vaste expérience dans le service à la clientèle. Son rôle précedent était dans un projet de chemin de fer, alors on est sûr qu’elle va travailler à toute vapeur !

Si vous avez des questions concernant nos ventes, Vicki fait partie de l’aimable équipe qui répond aux téléphones, alors n’hésitez pas à nous contacter.

Une nouvelle arrivée dans le service technique – Benvenuto Lisa de Rome !

Venant de la Ville Eternelle, nous sommes ravis d’accueillir Lisa au service technique ! Diplômée d’un master en Ingénierie Biomédicale de l’Université de Rome La Sapienza, Lisa travaille avec nos ingénieurs afin de les aider à trouver des solutions à tous vos problèmes techniques.

Lisa se charge également de la rédaction d’outils pédagogiques pour the Amalthea Trust, ce qui sera très utile pour les bénévoles dans leur travail. Et comme si tout cela ne suffisait pas, elle a déjà acheté son billet d’avion pour l’Ouganda afin de donner quelques cours là-bas. Nous sommes convaincus qu’elle fera un excellent travail !

Comme toujours, si vous avez un défibrillateur qui est hors service, ou un bistouri qui ne fonctionne plus, Lisa et les autres ingénieurs sont là pour trouver des solutions le plus rapidement possible. N’hésitez pas à nous appeler !

We Have, Once Again, Passed Our ISO:13485 Medical Engineering Audit

We are delighted to announce that we have passed our latest surveillance audit for ISO:13485 certification, recognising our ongoing commitment to a comprehensive servicing of medical devices and technical support. 

It is important to us to keep up to date with the latest standards and to ensure we offer a quality service to our clients.

For more information on ISO:13485, please follow this link: https://www.iso.org/standard/59752.html

If you would like to take advantage of our highly qualified Medical Engineering Department, or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch!

Le nouveau site internet espagnol est en ligne

Comme vous le savez peut-être, nous travaillons en Espagne depuis quelques temps. Avec des activités au niveau mondial et une équipe multilingue, nous sommes les mieux placés pour vous aider à revendre votre matériel médical, de restauration et de machines et d’outillages.

Nous cherchons toujours à améliorer et à développer nos services et nous espérons que la mise en place de ce nouveau site internet espagnol facilitera la vente et l’achat de matériel dans des pays hispanophones. Notre responsable commerciale espagnole, Amelia Mainer Martos, et Laia del Alcazar, notre nouvelle employee, possèdent une grande expertise dans la vente et l’achat de matériel. Nous attendons de superbes ventes en 2018 !

Nous vous invitons à suivre ce lien et à nous dire ce que vous en pensez : https://www.hilditch.es/

C’est le jour du “Pull de Noël” à Hilditch – bonnes fêtes de nous tous !

Avec les fêtes de fin d’année qui arrivent à grands pas, l’esprit de fête est au rendez-vous chez nous.

C’est le jour du “Pull de Noël” aujourd’hui (21/12/17). Voici une photo de notre équipe habillée en pull de noël, afin de vous mettre dans l’esprit des fêtes !

Nous vous informons que nos bureaux seront fermés pendant les fêtes de fin d’année, du lundi 25 décembre, jusqu’au lundi 1 janvier 2018 inclus.

Toute l’équipe à Hilditch vous souhaite de très bonnes fêtes et une bonne année 2018. Nous vous remercions de votre soutien en 2017, et nous espérons continuer notre collaboration l’année prochaine.

Les Journées de l’Achat Hospitalier : Resah Conference, 7 – 8 décembre 2017

La conférence annuelle du Resah (Réseau des Acheteurs Hospitaliers) a eu lieu le 7 et le 8 décembre à Montrouge (Hauts de Seine). Cet événement rassemble des Acheteurs d’établissements hospitaliers de toute la France, et des présentations ont été faites par rapport aux différents aspects des Achats dans le secteur de la santé. Il y a eu aussi des présentations sur le travail des ingénieurs biomédicaux en France. Frances Thivet, qui développe le marché français à Hilditch, a été invitée par le Resah en tant qu’intervenante, afin de répondre à des questions des participants quant à la revente d’équipements biomédicaux suite à une présentation donnée sur ce même sujet. La présentation a été faite par une ingénieure biomédical d’un établissement français qui confie ses équipements à Hilditch pour revente depuis bientôt deux ans. Ceux qui ont assisté à cette intervention ont manifesté un grand intérêt pour le sujet et ont posé de nombreuses questions. C’était fascinant pour Frances de discuter avec des ingénieurs biomédicaux concernant la revente d’équipements et de répondre aux préoccupations exprimées par certains. Nous souhaitons remercier le Resah de leur invitation à cet événement et de promouvoir la revente d’équipements médicaux en France.

9eme Congrès des Achats à Berlin

Nous étions ravis de visiter le 9ème Congrès des Achats à Berlin le 6 – 7 décembre 2017 en tant qu’exposant et intervenant. Notre attachée commerciale pour l’Allemagne, Olga Zachary, a fait une présentation très intéressante sur le Programme de Gestion de Matériel Médical Réformé que nous proposons au secteur de la santé ici au Royaume Uni depuis plus de 25 ans. Olga et Keeley Vernon ont bien discuté avec des responsables des établissements hospitaliers allemands ainsi, qu’avec d’autres prestataires de soins, qui ont été impressionés par nos services. Notre entreprise a apporté de nouvelles idées concernant le processus des Achats, comme par exemple l’optimisation des coûts et la gestion de matériel biomédical. Nous remercions tous ceux qui ont visité notre stand et tous ceux qui ont assisté à la présentation au Arena of Solutions le 7 décembre. Nous assisterons sans aucun doute à ce congrès en 2018.

Pour plus de renseignements concernant ce congrès, nous vous remercions de bien vouloir suivre ce lien : http://www.wegweiser.de/de/9-beschaffungskongress-der-krankenhaeuser

La 49eme Réunion Annuelle du British Medical Ultrasound Society

The Hilditch Group sera exposant au BMUS Technical Exhibition du 6 au 8 décembre 2017. Cet événement fait partie des conférences d’imagerie médicale les plus anciens au Royaume Uni. C’est un excellent endroit de rencontrer des personnes d’une grande variété de disciplines, dont les professions médicales et paramédicales, des physiciens, des ingénieurs, des infirmiers, des sages-femmes, des techniciens, des médecins traitants, des vétérinaires et d’autres professionnels qui sont intéressés par l’échographie médicale au Royaume Uni et ailleurs.

Plusieurs membres du personnel seront présents sur notre stand : Barney Greig (Business Development Manager), Clarissa Galloway (Sales and Marketing Executive), et Hugo Hilditch (Sales Executive & Valuer pour le Royaume Uni). Nous serons au stand 36. N’hésitez pas à nous contacter afin d’organiser une réunion ou venez tout simplement nous dire bonjour. Nous serons heureux de vous accueillir.

Suivez ce lien afin d’avoir plus de renseignements sur cet événement : https://www.bmus.org/ultrasound-2017/

Conférence d’Amalthea 2017 Très Réussie

Comme vous le savez peut-être déjà, Hilditch Group est un sponsor principal du Amalthea Trust. Cette association caritative a été fondée par Mike et Nicky Hilditch en 2007.

The Amalthea Trust a organisé une conférence le 19 septembre à Calcot Manor et Spa. Le lieu a été proposé gratuitement par notre Administrateur, Richard Ball.

De nombreux bénévoles ont assisté à la conférence, y compris des ingénieurs de Hilditch. Les donateurs qui financent actuellement le Kyambogo Programme étaient aussi présents. Anna Worm, la conférencière invitée, a fait une superbe présentation qui examinait l’ingénierie biomédicale au niveau continental, et mettait notre travail dans son vrai contexte. Elle est experimentée dans la formation des ingénieurs dans de nombreux pays en cours de développement. Elle est également conseillère pour le THET (the Tropical Health Education Trust) et l’Organisation Mondiale de la Santé. Il y avait d’autres présentations sur le travail effectué par Amalthea pendant les 12 derniers mois et sur la voie à suivre avec des conseils pédagogiques, donnant un cadre éducatif pour nos bénévoles.

Nous remercions tous les bénévoles qui ont pu venir à Wiltshire. Les idées partagées et les commentaires faits étaient très utiles pour nous.

Pour plus de renseignements concernant The Amalthea Trust, merci de suivre ce lien :

http://www.amaltheatrust.org.uk/

Sponsor Principal du Magnifique Feu d’Artifice à Malmesbury

Nous sommes ravis de sponsoriser le feu d’artifice à Malmesbury cette année. Hilditch est fier de sponsoriser des manifestations locales et de s’impliquer dans la vie collective, surtout lorsque l’argent recueilli sert à financer une bonne cause. Tout l’argent recueilli sera distribué parmi des groupes et des associations caritatives locaux.

Le feu d’artifice aura lieu le samedi 4 novembre à St Aldhelm’s Mead. C’est un superbe événement et nous l’attendons avec plaisir.

Voici un lien vers la page Facebook du feu d’artifice à Malmesbury, où vous trouverez plus de renseignements concernant cet événement : https://www.facebook.com/MalmesburyBC/

Vente de Bienfaisance

Nous avons organisé une vente de pâtisseries pour les associations caritatives Macmillan Support et Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation.

Le personnel de Hilditch a mis la main à la pâte et a apporté une variété de superbes gateaux. Comme vous pouvez imaginer, ils ont été vite mangés dans nos bureaux ! Les acheteurs fidèles qui assistaient à notre vente de matériel de restauration ont bien apprécié ces friandises !

Nous avons recueilli £139.02. Cet argent sera divisé entre ces deux associations caritatives.

Nous remercions tous ceux qui ont participé, ainsi que pour vos dons. C’est pour une bonne cause !

Medica 2017 – au plaisir de vous y voir !

Hilditch sera encore une fois exposant à Medica 2017, du 13 au 16 novembre à Düsseldorf, Allemagne. Medica est le salon international de référence pour le secteur médical. 

Nous nous réjouissons d’assister à cet événement. Notre équipe multilingue vous accueillera à notre stand et répondra à toutes vos questions concernant nos prestations.

Nous vous invitons chaleureusement à venir rencontrer l’équipe. Nous sommes situés au stand G30, Hall 10. Venez nous voir, ou alors contactez-nous dès maintenant afin d’organiser une réunion pendant le salon. 

Hilditch est le sponsor principal du Carnaval de Malmesbury cette année !

Hilditch est fier d’être le sponsor principal du Carnaval de Malmesbury cette année. Il s’agit d’un événement local exceptionnel qui rassemble toute la communauté. Le but du Carnaval est de recueillir autant de fonds que possible pour de bonnes causes locales.

Le Carnaval a lieu chaque année depuis 90 ans et cela fait très plaisir d’y participer. Nous sommes persuadés que le Carnaval de cette année sera un point marquant du calendrier d’événements de Malmesbury, et nous sommes impatients d’y assister !

Encore des places disponibles à la Conférence du Amalthea Trust

Vous savez peut-être déjà que Hilditch Group sponsorise le Amalthea Trust, et que nous fournissons des bénévoles qui aident dans la gestion de l’association et dans la formation des ingénieurs biomédicaux.

Le Amalthea Trust organisera une Journée Portes Ouvertes le mardi 19 septembre pour tous ceux qui seraient intéressés par la possibilité de faire du bénévolat, ainsi que pour des anciens bénévoles qui souhaiteraient partager leurs expériences avec nous !

Notre oratrice principale sera Anna Worm de THET, Engineering World Health, et d’autres organisations d’ingénierie biomédicale. Anna est experte dans le domaine de l’ingénierie en Afrique, et sa présentation donnera un aperçu fascinant des problèmes rencontrés par des ingénieurs biomédicaux dans les pays en cours de développement. Ce sera une expérience à ne pas rater !

Le séminaire tiendra lieu a Calcot Manor, Tetbury, South Gloucestershire. Il y aura plusieurs intervenants et des présentations sur un grand nombre de sujets concernant les projets actuels et futurs, ainsi que sur des méthodes d’enseignement pour nos bénévoles.

Il y a encore le temps ! Vous pouvez réserver votre place en cliquant sur le bouton qui se trouve en haut de la page, ou en prenant contact avec Alex au 01666 822 577, ou alors en envoyant un email directement à alexs@hilditchgroup.com.

Si vous ne pouvez pas assister à cet événement mais vous souhaitez en savoir plus sur l’association, contactez nous et nous vous enverrons une brochure.

Un Acheteur Satisfait – Le Matériel que Nous Vendons Fait Une Différence

Nous avons reçu un coup de fil d’un hôpital à Baden-Wüttemburg en Allemagne. Ils avaient réformé un échographe qu’ils pensaient avoir peu de valeur marchande. Nous leur avons fait une estimation gratuite de cet échographe et l’appareil a été mis en ligne dans une vente aux enchères.

Comme nous avons une grande base de données d’acheteurs de partout dans le monde, cet échographe a été vendu à un prix très raisonnable, ce qui a assuré un bon retour sur investissement pour l’établissement.

Après la réception du paiement et l’enlèvement de l’échographe, nous avons reçu une lettre de remerciement - avec cette photo - de la part de l’acheteur. Lana avait acheté l’échographe afin qu’il soit utilisé dans un hôpital en Ukraine concerné par le conflit dans la région et qui a un besoin urgent de matériel médical.

Le Vendeur ne pouvait pas savoir que cet échographe allait faire une telle différence dans un hôpital touché par la guerre en Ukraine. Il a été ravi d’apprendre que son ancien matériel peut encore servir pour une bonne cause comme celle-ci.

Cela nous fait toujours plaisir d’avoir des nouvelles du matériel vendu pour être ensuite utilisé pour ceux qui sont dans le besoin. Le Vendeur a eu un bon prix pour son vieux matériel médical, et ce matériel est utilisé pour aider la population en Ukraine.

Nous aimons bien cette photo des médecins et de l’échographe en service. Un grand merci, Lana !

NPAG Clinical Engineering Conference 2017

Nous aurons à nouveau un stand cette année au NPAG Clinical Engineering Conference qui aura lieu mardi 12 septembre 2017 au Ricoh Arena, à Coventry. Cette conférence donne un aperçu des technologies en cours de développement, et nous aide à comprendre comment les appareils médicaux sont connectés aux réseaux et comment protéger les systèmes dans le contexte des événements récents.

Hilditch a un stand régulièrement à ce congrès et nous attendons avec plaisir d’y participer à nouveau cette année. Si vous souhaitez organiser une réunion lors de cet événement nous vous invitons à nous contacter ; nous serons présents afin de répondre à toutes vos questions quant à la revente de matériel médical.

Nous vous attendons nombreux !

Goûter Goûteux pour la Vie des Tout-Petits

Un grand merci pour le Goûter Traditionnelle de L’Action Médicale (Cream Teas Action Medical)!

Aujourd’hui à Hilditch nous avons dégusté un goûter délicieux de Action Cream Teas au profit de L’Action pour la Recherche Médicale pour les Enfants (Action Medical Research for Children). En mangeant ces goûters traditionnels nous avons contribué au financement des projets de recherche qui pourraient sauver des vies.

Action Medical Research for Children aide à sauver des milliers de vies des enfants et aussi à changer des vies à travers la recherche médicale. Depuis 1952 cette association finance des avancées médicales tells que les premières vaccins contre la polio au Royaume-Uni, les échographies pendant la grossesse et le vaccin contre la rubéole.

Cette association est determinée de faire une différence pour les enfants. Si vous souhaitez en savoir plus ou si vous voulez aider cette association, merci de consulter https://www.action.org.uk/

Journée Caritative de Golf chez Rad Magazine au profit du British Heart Foundation

Hilditch Group a le plaisir de sponsoriser et d’assister à la Journée Caritative de Golf chez Rad Magazine le 29 juin. Il s’agit d’un événement annuel caritatif, et cette année il soutiendra le British Heart Foundation. Le British Heart Foundation est le plus grand bailleur de fonds de la recherche contre les maladies cardiovasculaires au Royaume Uni.

Cet événement rassemble des employés, des clients et des amis afin de faire connaître cette association caritative à l’occasion d’une très belle journée. C’est Neill Saint, expert en estimation principal, commissaire-priseur et amateur de golf qui assistera à cet événement. Neill a bien profité de cette journée l’année dernière et se réjouit d’y participer à nouveau.

Les Heart Awards de l’Hôpital de Barnsley

Nous sommes très fiers d’avoir été un sponsor des Heart Awards de l’hôpital de Barnsley cette année.

Cet événement, qui a été présenté par Harry Gration, journaliste de Look North du BBC, est un excellent moyen de reconnaître le travail et l’engagement infatigable du personnel et des bénévoles de cet établissement hospitalier.

Le but de l’association caritative de l’hôpital de Barnsley est de soutenir les soins qui vont bien au delà du devoir, et c’est ce grand dévouement qui est reconnu le soir des Heart Awards. Chaque année, les Heart Awards reconnaît le travail remarquable accompli par le personnel et les bénévoles.

Ayant travaillé en étroite collaboration avec l’hôpital de Barnsley pendant de nombreuses années, nous apprécions le fort engagement de son équipe, et nous soutenons la reconnaissance de leur travail et de l’association.

Déplacement en Allemagne pour le Salon de Wümek bien réussi

Notre Attachée Commerciale pour l’Allemagne, Olga Zachary, et notre Ingénieur Médical Nadine Gottschick ont assisté à l’exposition de Wümek, le Congrès Interdisciplinaire de Technologie et d’Hygiène aux Etablissements Hospitaliers, à Würzburg en Allemagne le 3 et le 4 mai.

Cette exposition a été une grande réussite et nous souhaitons remercier tous ceux qui nous ont rencontré et qui ont visité notre stand. C’était super de rencontrer des clients actuels et de faire de nouveaux contacts.

Cela fait plus de deux ans que nous développons nos activités en Allemagne, et nous avons plusieurs membres du personnel à Hilditch qui parlent allemand afin d’assurer que le processus de vente se déroule sans problème pour nos clients allemands.

Nous vendons du matériel médical pour des vendeurs à travers l’Europe et notre service fournit une source de revenus du matériel médical réformé. Notre site internet est le portail clé pour la revente du matériel médical en Europe.

Nous vous invitons à nous contacter afin d’avoir plus de renseignements concernant les différentes solutions et les valeurs marchandes de votre matériel médical réformé.  

Encore une autre séminaire EBME réussie et un super discours sur Amalthea!

Nous avons passé un très bon moment à l’exposition EBME le mercredi 26 avril 2017 avec l’Amalthea Trust. Le séminaire EBME est un événement annuel qui rassemble les professionnels de santé qui sont responsables de la gestion d’équipements médicaux.

Nous souhaiterions remercier tous ceux qui ont visité notre stand. C’était super de rencontrer nos clients actuels et de faire la connaissance de nouveaux clients potentiels.

Martin Worster, Chef de Projet de l’Association Amalthea, a fait une présentation sur “comment aider à assurer la maintenance durable de matériel médical à travers la mise à disposition des programmes de formation”. L’Amalthea Trust recrute toujours des ingénieurs médicaux bénévoles pour partir à l’étranger afin d’assurer des formations sur l’utilisation de matériel médical. Notre prochain déplacement sera en Ethiopie, tous frais payés. Si vous êtes intéressé, nous vous invitons à contacter Martin aujourd’hui : martinw@amaltheatrust.org.uk

Bienvenue à Hilditch Iberia – Agence en Espagne

Nos activités en Espagne et au Portugal se sont bien développées au cours de ces deux dernières années, avec de nombreuses ventes réussies, gérées par Amelia Mainer Martos, Attachée Commerciale Européenne. Par conséquent nous sommes en train d’ouvrir une agence à Barcelone qui sera gérée par Amelia. Nous vous prions de lui écrire à l’adresse suivante : ventas@hilditchgroup.com ou bien d’aller la voir à l’agence.

Nous avons développé des relations professionnelles avec de nombreux établissements hospitaliers publics et privés ainsi qu’avec des industriels dans la région ibérique. C’est pour cette raison que nous anticipons des ventes exceptionnelles en 2017. Les acheteurs de matériel médical d’occasion en Espagne et au Portugal auront également accès aux équipements dans leurs propres pays.

Nous continuons à innover et à mener le marché à travers l’Europe, avec des agences au Royaume-Uni, en Allemagne et aussi en Espagne. Nous restons le chef de file dans la vente aux enchères et la gestion des actifs dans le secteur de la santé, et nous sommes les premiers revendeurs de matériel médical en Europe.

Des clinics privés et des vétérinaires à travers le monde générent des revenus importants grâce à la vente de matériel médical d’occasion. Nous proposons une gamme complète de services de revente pour tous vos appareils. Si vous avez du matériel à vendre, pensez à nous consulter pour la revente !

Si vous cherchez à acheter du matériel médical d’occasion, nous avons une très large gamme d’appareils. Nous vendons plus de 2000 lots par mois, dont des instruments chirurgicaux et des tables d’opération, des échographes, des scanner et des IRM.

Consultez notre site internet afin d’avoir plus de renseignements.

Nous sommes ravis d’avoir ouvert cette agence en Espagne, et nous sommes à la disposition des vendeurs et des achteurs à travers cette région.

Interdisciplinary Congress for Technology and Hygiene in Hospitals

This year we will be exhibiting at the Interdisciplinary Congress for Technology and Hygiene in Hospitals, Wümek, in Würzburg Germany on the 3^rd and 4^th of May.  This show brings together medical professionals from hospitals in Germany, including engineers and management personnel.

We attend and exhibit at many different shows across Europe and look forward to Wümek. Our new European Sales Executive, Olga Zachary, will be there so please don’t hesitate to pop by. If you would like to arrange a meeting please contact Olga on: olgaz@hilditchgroup.com.

We will be on stand 25, come and say hello!

For more information on the show please visit - http://euritim.de/wuemek-kongress.html

Hilditch exposant au Séminaire EBME 2017 

Notre équipe sera à nouveau exposant au Séminaire EBME (Electrical and Biomedical Engineering) le 26 avril 2017. Il s’agit d’un événement pédagogique exceptionnel et rassemble les professionnels du secteur de la santé qui sont responsables de la gestion du matériel médical.

Mike Hilditch sera également présent afin de représenter The Hilditch Group et The Amalthea Trust avec un discours sur notre Association. The Amalthea Trust aide à prévoir la maintenance durable de matériel médical à travers des projets de formation. Les étudiants qui poursuivent ces formations ont accès à un atélier et au matériel médical pour faire des tests. Pour plus de renseignements concernant cette association caritative, nous vous invitons à consulter le lien suivant :  http://www.amaltheatrust.org.uk/.

L’équipe Hilditch sera ravie de vous rencontrer et de vous expliquer comment nous pouvons vendre vos appareils médicaux, ainsi que notre gamme de services de plus en plus élargie. Venez nous voir au stand B7.

A bientôt !

https://www.ebme.co.uk/

Nous avons une superbe équipe d’ingéniurs qui travaillent dans notre service technique médical.

Notre service technique propose de nombreux services aux établissements publics et privés partout en Grande Bretagne et dans d’autres pays européens, y compris :

•             Entretien Planifié Annuel sur la plupart d’équipement médical

•             Réparations de presque toute sorte d’appareil

•             Evaluations des Besoins et des Inventaires

•             Tests des appareils et Rapports sur l’état de tout type d’équipement médical à vendre

N’hésitez pas à nous contacter pour en savoir plus sur ces services.

Nous serions ravis de venir vous voir afin de discuter de nos services quant à la maintenance de votre matériel, ou pour vous apporter plus de renseignements sur notre savoir-faire. Nous proposons un service sur mesure en fonction de vos besoins. Nous sommes à votre disposition pour organiser un rendez-vous, pour vous faire un devis ou pour répondre à vos questions.  

NHS Information Governance Toolkit

As the market leader in the resale of medical and healthcare assets, we have strict protocols for the identification, transportation and removal of patient and confidential data for clients. 

In addition to complying with all relevant guidelines, we are registered on the NHS IG (Information Governance) Toolkit, which is an online system which allows organisations to assess themselves or be assessed against Information Governance policies and standards. It also allows members of the public to view participating organisations' IG Toolkit assessments. This toolkit incorporates information governance policy, network security policy and guidelines in the use of portable equipment. We are currently graded at level 2 +, which means we have evidenced attainment on all information governance requirements, but don’t take our word for it, see for yourself by clicking the link below!

https://www.igt.hscic.gov.uk/ReportsOrganisationChooser.aspx?tk=424084737108526&lnv=3&cb=8d004e3b-ae61-43cd-b258-37f20e68069c&reptypeid=1&srch=yes&oid=12&stid=-1&val=hilditch&shcont=NO&shreview=

Please contact us for full details on our Information Governance Policy and Data Wiping Services.

C’est le jour du “Pull de Noël” ici à Hilditch !

L’esprit de fête est au rendez-vous chez nous, et le choix des habits du personnel était plutôt surprenant aujourd’hui, mardi 20 décembre.

Voici une photo de notre équipe habillée en pull de noël, afin de vous mettre dans l’esprit des fêtes.

Toute l’équipe Hilditch vous souhaite de très bonnes fêtes de fin d’année et une bonne année 2017 : avez-vous votre propre pull de noël ?! 

Successful Show in Spain!

Amelia Mainer Martos and Hubertus von Wietersheim greatly enjoyed meeting new contacts and old friends while exhibiting at ‘Asociación Española de Ingeniería Hospitalaria (AEIH)’ again this week.  

This show, the 34th Annual Congress of Medical Engineering, is the largest exhibition for all professionals within the medical engineering industry in Spain.

The exhibition took place over 3 days from Wednesday 19th October to Friday 21st October at the ADDA Conference Centre in Alicante. 

Thank you to everyone who stopped by. 

We look forward to the next one!

Nouveau site internet !!

Nous sommes heureux d’annoncer que notre NOUVEAU site internet est maintenant disponible ! Bienvenue à hilditchgroup.com, le nouveau portail de Hilditch Group Ltd.

Nous cherchons toujours à améliorer et à développer nos services. Nous avons donc décidé de mettre à jour notre site actuel afin de faciliter le travail de nos vendeurs et de nos acheteurs internationaux.

Le choix des langues comprend le français, l’allemand, l’espagnol et l’anglais. La traduction vers le russe et vers l’italien est aussi en cours et nous annoncerons plus tard la date du lancement de ces deux langues. La plupart du contenu sera adaptée aux différents pays et vous pourrez sélectionner la langue de votre choix en cliquant sur un bouton. Les pages qui présentent les lots en vente s’affichent toujours en anglais. N’hésitez pas à nous contacter pour toute question ; notre équipe multilingue est à votre disposition afin de vous aider si nécessaire.

Nous avons également changé le domaine de notre site ; maintenant c’est www.hilditchgroup.com au lieu de co.uk. Si pour autant vous tapez l’ancienne adresse, vous serez redirigé vers le nouveau site.

Notre site internet permet à nos acheteurs d’enchérir en direct. Il représente le portail de référence du marché des appareils médicaux d’occasion. Nous organisons de nombreuses ventes en-ligne tous les mois ainsi que des ventes aux enchères classiques. En plus de nos ventes regulières à notre siège en Grande Bretagne, nous faisons des ventes en-ligne et sur place des équipements dans toute l’Europe.

En outre des ventes de tous types d’équipements médicaux, nous organisons des ventes d’équipement de restauration, de machines et d’outillage et des véhicules.

Nous espérons que cette mise à jour vous sera utile. N’hésitez pas à nous contacter pour toute question.

Hilditch Group Fleets Grows

A new lorry has just joined the Hilditch fleet, increasing our transport capacity. Transport Coordinator Andrew Trybus was delighted to take delivery of his new vehicle, with the latest gadgets and barely believable fuel economy.

The vehicle’s low emissions and fuel economy will help towards lessening our environmental impact, and maintaining our ISO: 14001 accreditation.

We also continue to work to be flexible on small collections, utilising our large vans at low rates, thus offering an overall collection service to suit all requirements. 

The Hilditch Group are proud to be sponsoring the De Lage Landen Charity Golf Day on Thursday the 15th of September.

Hilditch is Looking Forward to Attending UK Radiology Conference (UKRC) 2016

Hilditch enjoyed exhibiting at the event last year and look forward to visiting again this year. If you would like to meet with us, please contact clarissag@hilditchgroup.com.

Engineering Department Continues to Expand- Two New Engineers Have Joined Us!

We are very pleased to announce that two new engineers have joined our team: Joseph Rodrigues and Nadine Gottschick. This increase in staff means that our Medical Engineering Department can provide an even more comprehensive service to our clients, and supports our growth and development.

Joseph has a strong background in electronics and software and will be working within our data wiping team, as well as conducting repairs. We are looking forward to seeing him put his skills to the test on some problematic software issues!

Nadine joins us with a strong background in engineering and, being a German national, will work closely with our German division. She has lived and worked in many different countries, and in her spare time her quieter interests include reading and yoga, whilst at the other end of the spectrum she’s a keen surfer!

We welcome them both! 

Yet Another Successful EBME Seminar!

Hilditch and Amalthea Trust had a great time exhibiting at EBME on Tuesday the 26^th of April. The EBME seminar is an annual event that brings together healthcare professionals who are responsible for the management of medical equipment. 

The event was a huge success and we would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who visited our stand. It was fantastic to meet our current customers and potential new ones.

Mike Hilditch, in his capacity as Chairman of The Amalthea Trust, gave a talk at the EBME Conference ‘Good Training is Better than Bad Donations’. Mike highlighted the huge amounts of money that had been pumped into Africa; in particular over the last 50 years, including many billions a year from the UK Government annually, with very few tangible improvements. He pointed out that other poor economies in particular in Asia had grown significantly without the benefit of large amounts of aid, and that perhaps the Aid was the problem in Africa. The talk went onto address what most agencies, such as WHO, now accept as good practice; which includes targeted small loans to business, help with education and infrastructure. However, Africa is improving and growth is excellent in some countries. This is due to better IT, web access etc. and the entrepreneurial spirit of the younger Africans; our job in the West is to encourage this and provide the tools so that they can increase their expertise. This is what Amalthea Trust is doing by running the Biomedical Technicians Course in Kyambogo University.

The talk was well received, and 11 engineers from the audience expressed an interest in volunteering for the Trust.

Mike would like to thank John Sandham for inviting him to talk at the conference.

Customer Feedback Required – Medical Auction Day Timings

Due to the ever increasing amount of Lots in our main monthly medical auction, we have acknowledged that the finish time, averaging around 7pm or later, is proving to be a problem for some of our buyers. For this reason, we are proposing that we will be open for viewing at 8.00am and will start the auction at the earlier time of 9am, which should hopefully mean an earlier finish for you all.

Should these changes go ahead it will mean less time for viewing on the morning of the sale; however you can take full advantage of our Medical Engineering Dept.’s condition reporting prior to the auction, and you are also able to visit us the Friday before the auctions from 12pm-5pm and Monday before the auctions from 10am-6pm.

Please contact us with any comments you may have regarding this; your feedback will assist us to make a final decision regarding these changes – simply email us on sales@hilditchgroup.com.  

EBME Seminar 2016 – Hilditch Exhibit and Present

We are delighted to once again be exhibiting at the EBME (Electrical and Biomedical Engineering) Seminar on the 26^th of April 2016 in Milton Keynes. This is an excellent independent educational event bringing together healthcare professionals, and the key annual event in most medical engineer’s calendars.

Mike Hilditch will also be presenting a paper on behalf of the Amalthea Trust entitled “Good Training is Better than Bad Donations” Don’t miss it! A representative from The Amalthea Trust will also be present on our stand to discuss opportunities to support and volunteer for the charity, whose aim is “to help provide for the sustainable maintenance of medical equipment through the provision of training programmes for the recipients”.

The Hilditch team would be delighted to meet you to talk about medical device sale options, and our growing range of services. Contact us today to arrange a meeting, or just pop in and visit Hilditch on Stand B1.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Malmesbury Beer and Sausage Festival

Hilditch were very happy to be a sponsor at Malmesbury beer festival this year, and the team had an excellent time!

Massive Congratulations to ‘Style Farm Butchers’ who won the competition and will be presented with the Hilditch Sausage Shield this Sunday 24^thApril 2016.

It was a very enjoyable festival with great live music, delicious food and drink. This is a yearly, two day festival and took place on the 8^th and 9^th of April this year in Malmesbury Town Hall.

The festival raised a great amount of money and the profit was divided equally between the three local schools, St Josephs RC Primary, Malmesbury Primary School, and Malmesbury Secondary School. All three schools received £1,000 each!

We look forward to the next one next year!

Hilditch Expand Sales to Finland!

We are pleased to announce a great new online sale in Finland.

We are expanding even further into Europe - not only do we sell equipment in Germany, Spain and France but now also in Finland. We are working closely with the Oy Yios Company and have a great variety of medical equipment for sale. The equipment in this sale ranges from sternum saws to patient monitoring units.

Don’t miss it!

European Expansion Full Steam Ahead!

We launched our new European service in 2015 with sales in France, Germany and Spain - but 2016 looks even more exciting; already we are cataloguing our first sale in Finland! Two new members of staff are joining the department to strengthen our German Office. Hubertus von Wietersheim-Kramsta will be our “Man in Germany”, building strong links with the Health Service he will be based at our new warehouse near Frankfurt. Hubertus, although a German national, is fluent in Spanish, having spent several years building an online business and managing the online presence of many Spanish companies.

Dieter Becker joins us from a career in business development for a number of high tech international companies. Dieter will be responsible for Northern Europe sales and valuations, and will be working closely with Hubertus developing the German market. Although a German national, Dieter has lived in the UK for many years and will be based at our Malmesbury office. 

Hilditch Group Go the Extra Mile with Information Governance!

Following on from the success of the Engineering Department achieving their ISO: 13485 Accreditation, we have now successfully been accepted onto the NHS Information Governance Toolkit. Maintaining exceptionally high standards has always been a priority of the Hilditch Group, because we think that it is important that hospital managers should be able to trust that only professionals manage the sale of their assets.  These days anyone can slap auctioneer after their name – surprisingly, the industry is completely unregulated!

Maintaining high standards is crucial; the fact that the Hilditch Group is IG compliant should reassure all our clients that they can truly trust that our processes of monitoring and disposal are world class.

ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE

The Hilditch Group has always accepted nothing less than excellence in the way it carries out its services, and we’re pleased to announce that we have been rewarded for this by achieving the ISO 13485 (Quality Management Systems) accreditation for our medical engineering department.

Needless to say, the engineers are thrilled that all 10,345,782 of the meticulously planned steps they follow when working on our clients’ medical equipment have been recognised, and you can be sure that we will continue to provide the highest quality of medical engineering services, as expected of organisations with this accreditation.

For more information on our medical engineering services, please contact alexs@hilditchgroup.com.  

Invitation to Hotelympia Event

We would like to invite you to join us at the upcoming Hotelympia catering exhibition, which runs from 29^th February 2016 to the 3^rd March 2016 at London Excel.  

The team are once again exhibiting and would be delighted to meet hospitality buyers and vendors, both new and old, to discuss the market and opportunities to buy and sell catering equipment.

Contact Henry Hilditch, our Catering Auctioneer, at henryh@hilditchgroup.com if you would like to arrange a meeting, or call past our stand no. 3600. 

Hotelympia is the UK’s largest foodservice and hospitality event and the most important event for any professional wanting to gain access to the latest products and thinking. 

We look forward to seeing you there!

A big thank you to Hilditch from Kenya!

With 1000’s of medical equipment lots leaving our salerooms each month, it is great to see what has been achieved, a fully equipped operating theatre with wards!  A fine example of creating a much needed resource to a community.

Here is what they have to say:

'Hello Hilditch team,

 Just to thank you again, I think you can all see how much Hilditch has done for Star Hospital and Langoni Nursing Home. Most of our equipment was bought there. In this part of the world, this will all go a long way in helping the local community. With Hilditch, our dream became a reality'!

National Performance Advisory Group Clinical Engineering Conference 2015

Hilditch were proud supporters of the NPAG: Clinical Engineering Conference this month where our Director, Mike Hilditch, gave a controversial yet thought provoking presentation named ‘Does Charity Save the World – or Destroy it’? The presentation put forward the argument that Big Spend charity by governments often has a negative effect of the recipients, and that a better approach is to encourage free trade. Mike also talked about how money could be better spent on education, business advice and small cheap loans for start up businesses; following which, many of the delegates also recounted their similar experiences.

Several engineers expressed an interest in volunteering to teach medical engineering classes for the Amalthea Trust. If we spoke to you at the event then you will be hearing from us shortly, but please don’t hesitate to contact us at sales@hilditchgroup.com to request more information should you desire it!   

Hilditch Visit the European Society of Cardiology Congress 2015

Joanna Maddams, Hilditch Marketing Executive, attended the European Society of Cardiology Congress last week, the largest and most influential cardiology event in the world.

Visiting the many major manufacturers exhibiting at the conference, including Philips, Siemens and GE Healthcare whom we sell medical equipment on behalf of, Joanna was also able to renew knowledge in this specialist field - in which we sell hundreds of items of cardiology equipment every year. Joanna said “it was great to attend such an exciting event, with attendees from around Europe and so many new developments and innovations”.

The European Society of Cardiology (ESC) represents over 85, 000 cardiology professionals, principally from across Europe and the Mediterranean basin, but also from the rest of the world. Providing an array of scientific and educational activities including the production and continuous updating of Clinical Practice Guidelines, the ESC also organises many educational courses and initiatives, as well as pan-European surveys on specific disease areas. As well as the ESC Main congress, several subspecialty congresses are also held and the ESC also edits and publishes 12 of the world's leading journals on cardiology.

Senior Ultrasound Engineer Joins Our Growing Medical Engineering Team.

Karan Korgaonkar, Senior Engineer,  is the latest addition to the growing Hilditch team, joining us with industry experience from leading players including TBS GB, Asteral Ltd and Siemens, as well as having worked in several NHS Trusts.

Karan's appointment significantly enhances The Hilditch Group's capability to maintain and repair ultrasound scanners, as well as supporting our industry leading resale programme. Karan will work with the team to maximise the resale value of ultrasounds by preparing them for sale with any required repairs and maintenance in liaison with vendors; and potentially supporting buyers in their maintenance after purchase (although all lots remain sold as seen).

Karan will focus on the continual development of our service offering with Roger Sanders, Medical Engineering Manager, both of whom conducted their MSC in Biomedical Engineering at Imperial College, London. Karan says “I am excited to be joining such an innovative and growing company, and in building on their specialist services to the NHS and private sector.”

Hilditch Promote Their Services at Care Show

As a specialist Nursing Home Auctioneer, Hilditch Group, recently visited the Care Show in Bournemouth to renew relationships with Care Homes and Equipment Manufacturers alike. In our 25 years of trading, we have sold thousands of Care Home Equipment items through our auctions, including wheelchairs, hoists, baths, walking aids, beds, mattresses and much more. 

Many care homes were not aware of the full service that we provide, including our site clearance and Asset Management Service; which takes unwanted stress away. A care home in Staffordshire have used us on a number of occasions to collect, auction and dispose of unwanted furniture and equipment from several closed properties. 

Michelle Hall, Asset Management Officer for Staffordshire County Council, said: “We have now held two on-site auctions, these were managed throughout to our complete satisfaction by the staff at Hilditch. I would have no hesitation in recommending Hilditch Group Ltd to anybody who is thinking of auctioning off furniture and equipment, and the disposal of items no longer required.”

Hilditch Celebrate 25 Years in Style! 

Hilditch celebrated their 25^th Year in business on Friday with a stylish event at Barnsley House Hotel, Cirencester. Guests included local councillor Ray Sanderson and a host of past and present customers, including Albert Maslin of Westend Catering who started working at Hilditch as a porter at the age of 16, before setting up his own successful business. He has been attending Hilditch Auctions for many years.

The event was held in the Grade II listed gardens of Barnsley House. The slightly damp weather did not dampen the festivities, which included afternoon tea and a speech with champagne toast by Mike Hilditch.

Founded in 1990 by Mike and Nicky Hilditch, the company is now the biggest resellers of medical equipment in Europe, with customers from all over the world. The Hilditch Group is expanding rapidly and has opened offices in Spain and Germany.  

Lean Ainscough, a former employee at Hilditch, commented “we had a fantastic day and it was so lovely to be able to catch up with so many old faces and to meet such a growing team.”

Invitation to Join Hilditch Group at UK Radiology Conference (UKRC) 2015 

Hilditch will be exhibiting at the UK Radiology Conference (UKRC) Monday 29^th June – Wednesday 1^st July and would like to invite you to visit us on stand 85. We value and sell a huge variety of imaging equipment for the NHS, Lease Companies and Manufacturers, including CT and MRI scanners, and would be happy to discuss sale options for your current equipment that you may be replacing. Please let us know if you would like to arrange a meeting or just pop along to stand 85.

UKRC is aimed at all those involved in the field of radiological science, being the largest Diagnostic Imaging event in the UK. It is a three day multidisciplinary scientific conference and technical exhibition. This year promises to be a dynamic and exciting programme, covering all aspects of diagnostic imaging and oncology. 

We hope to see you there! 

Find out more at http://www.ukrc.org.uk/

Hilditch Launch Shop and Dealing Room 

Hilditch have just launched two major new sections to their website – The Hilditch Shop and The Dealing Room.

The Shop features a range of new and used catering and medical equipment, some with a UK Warranty, giving our buyers the opportunity to purchase selected items now.

The Dealing Room offers a more refined solution to buying and selling equipment. It gives our vendors the opportunity to display products in advance, maximising visibility to buyers. This allows buyers better preparation for purchases, giving them the chance to negotiate a price, arrange disconnection, de-installation, removal, and service agreements if necessary.

Both The Shop and Dealing Room are regularly updated with new products so check back regularly for new deals.

Happy Shopping!

Hilditch Exhibiting at Radiology Conference 

The Hilditch Group will be exhibiting at the 5th National Conference for Radiology Managers supported by the Philips Healthcare and the Society of Radiographers on 14th May 2015 at the Pullman Hotel, London.

The event attracts around 300 Managers and Clinical Directors across the UK to meet and share information and experiences. The 2015 theme is 'The Quest for the Holy Grail: Achieving Quality, Safety and Investment' - with a highly topical programme, it aims to support the leadership of managers as they work to deliver high quality imaging services in the rapidly changing National Health Service.

As the leading medical device reseller via auction in Europe with 25 years’ experience in the medical industry, Hilditch have sold an array of CT, MRI and X-ray rooms, as well as ultrasound scanners and general imaging equipment on behalf of 95% of NHS Trusts and private hospitals.

We hope to see you there on Stand 7!

Golf Event raises over £6,000 

Hilditch sponsored a Charity Golf Day held in their local town of Malmesbury which raised over £6,000 for Children’s Hospice South West. 

Organised by Malmesbury builder Paul Sparrowhawk and his wife Claire, the event also included an auction with a pair of signed Ricky Hatton boxing gloves, a players programme donated by Europe’s leading mind coach Karl Morris and a signed US Open flag from Justin Rose. 

Children’s Hospice South West make the most of short and precious lives, building memories for families whose children are living with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions. 

Paul Sparrowhawk said: “They do an amazing job there and it's inspired us to do even more for them. “Thank you very much for your kind sponsorship at Hilditch, it really is appreciated, and makes a big difference to this wonderful charity.”

The Great Hilditch Bake Off! 

Staff at Hilditch will be taking part in the Great Hilditch Bake Off to raise money for Help for Heroes.

Participants will bake an array of cakes, cookies or sweet treats ready for Tuesday 21^st April which is when their next live Catering Auction will take place.

Feel free to pop in throughout the day and sample these delicious treats! All proceeds will be donated to Help for Heroes.

EBME Conference 2015

Hilditch will be exhibiting at the EBME (Electrical and Biomedical Engineering) seminar and would like to invite you to meet with us on stand C10 to talk about medical device sale options and our growing range of services.

The conference is taking place in the Doubletree Hilton Hotel, Milton Keynes on Thursday 30^th April 2015.

EBME is an independent educational event bringing together healthcare professionals that are responsible for the management of medical equipment in areas such as procurement, maintenance, user training, and managing inventories.

Contact us today to arrange a meeting or just pop in and visit Hilditch on Stand C10. We look forward to seeing you.

Hilditch Veteran Runs Again!

Our veteran marathon runner, Danny O'Brien, will be running The Grand Union Canal Challenge this year in aid of Help for Heroes.

Danny will be running 50k from Watford to Bletchley hoping to raise at least £400. This is an annual event which normally features about 2,000 entrants. The entire course is 100k, starting from London, but entrants can either do 25k, 50k or the full 100k.

Danny says he'll do the 100k maybe next year...!

Please consider sponsoring him, the Just Giving site is www.justgiving.com/DannyOBrien1

Engineering Team Expanded to Improve Offering

Hilditch have increased the size of their medical engineering department with the inclusion of Biomedical Engineering Graduate Mufna Nihad. Mufna holds a 1^st Class Degree from City University, London. Before joining us, Mufna worked as a Trainee Biomedical Engineer for the NHS at Chase Farm Hospital, London. 

We are delighted to welcome Mufna, whose primary activities include performing Planned Preventative Maintenance, Servicing, and Electrical Safety Tests on the vast range of medical equipment sold in our auctions, including Ultrasounds, Radiography Rooms, CT Scanners, Endoscopy, Mammography and Anaesthetic Machines. 

With the ability to test and repair most types of equipment in a 72-hour turnaround time, and specialties in clearing patient data, along with carrying out post-lease condition and decontamination reports on a range of equipment for lease companies, we have seen an increase in throughput within the engineering department in recent months.

Hilditch Sponsor Food Event of the Year

Wimbledon, Ascot, The Boat Race and the Wiltshire Sausage Competition are all prestigious events in the British social calendar and The Hilditch Group are pleased to announce that this year we will be principal sponsors of the Best of the British Bangers! Butchers from all over Wiltshire and far beyond will be flocking to Malmesbury on 10^th and 11^th April 2015 to enter their meaty feasts in a competition that combines everything that is Great in Great Britain; namely fine ales and sausages.

The Malmesbury Beer Festival will showcase handcrafted ales and fine British cuisine, and, who knows, even a Morris Dancer or two. The event, which will raise funds for three Malmesbury Schools, is rapidly becoming almost unmissable, and the chance to win the Hilditch Challenge Cup for best sausage has got everyone literally slavering at the chops!

Thousands of Pounds' Lost in Site Clearances

In an article published by Health Estate Journal, Mike Hilditch, Managing Director of Hilditch Group Ltd gives advice about site clearances to prevent companies losing out on significant amounts of money. He states: “In summary, companies must be flexible- preparing for any eventuality and changing the plan if necessary. Keep in mind the security of the old site which can be overlooked when company focus is on the new site, and also recycling equipment which is essential.”

With 25 years’ experience selling equipment on behalf of the NHS, Hilditch Group have managed over 90 hospital site clearances. Mike continues: “Asset managers are essential for the initial site assessment; they can highlight liability issues and determine the real areas of value.”

Hilditch Group have a number of valuers to provide accurate quotes on what equipment is worth before it is sent to auction, along with trained engineers who can inspect equipment and undertake data cleansing on hard drives, enabling resale instead of disposal. 

Hilditch have just completed the clearance of Frenchay and Southmead Hospitals. Karen Shrimpton, Commissioning Manager at North Bristol NHS Trust said: “Our site clearance was executed to a very high standard thanks to the professional and skilful approach undertaken by Hilditch. I wouldn’t hesitate to use them again to manage our future site clearances.”

Read the full article here: www.healthestatejournal.com/story/13966/keeping-costs-down-and-revenue-up

Hilditch Group Expands Team Internationally

Leading medical equipment and healthcare asset auctioneers Hilditch Group are rapidly expanding with the appointment of three members of the sales and marketing team.

Amelia Mainer Martos has been taken on as Sales Executive for Spain, Portugal and Latin America. Amelia has extensive experience in marketing after working with HP for two years. Prior to this, Amelia gained a Master’s Degree at Barcelona School of Management.

After studying as an apprenticeship mechatronic technician with a dental market leader, Christiane Saupe joined MSI (Medical Service International) as a field service representative for North Germany. With vast experience studying medicine and repairing endoscopes, Christiane is well qualified to join Hilditch as Sales Executive for Northern Europe.

These appointments reflect the rapid expansion of Hilditch into Europe.

Joanna Maddams, Sales and Marketing Executive, will be using her Healthcare experience to maintain the Hilditch website as the key portal to the used medical equipment market in Europe. She will also continually maximise vendor medical device exposure to over 12,000 active buyers and thousands of prospects.

Hilditch offer excellent Hospitality at the Show in Birmingham NEC

Hilditch have had a presence at the Hospitality Show for a number of years and enjoyed renewing relationships with both buyers and vendors - several of whom knew us from when we started holding catering auctions 25 years ago.

Visitors were interested in the wealth of services Hilditch have to offer at the Hospitality Show, and the opportunity to buy low-priced used commercial catering equipment.

Discussions were based around the variety of equipment Hilditch sell through their auctions including new, ‘B’ grade, second hand or used catering equipment from major manufacturers and distributors.

Hilditch exhibiting at the Hospitality Show, NEC Birmingham

This month, the team will be attending the Hospitality Show at Birmingham NEC 19^th – 21^st January, Britain’s largest hospitality event of 2015.

We’d like to invite you to join us on stand 459 to discuss how we can be of service to you.

With 25 years’ experience, Hilditch are the UK's leading auctioneers of catering equipment; selling new, b-grade and used catering equipment.

Invitation to Medica Exhibition 2014, Dusseldorf, Germany

The team will once again be attending Medica and this year will be co-exhibiting with MSI Medserv International. We have assembled an expert team for Medica this year – Mike Hilditch (Director), Barney Greig (Marketing Manager), Joanne Clark (Valuer) and Hugo Hilditch (Sales & Marketing).

Medica is the world’s largest medical equipment trade exhibition - and we extend a warm invitation to meet the team. Hilditch Group will be exhibiting in Hall 13, stand D63 from the 12^th – 15^th November. Please call in and meet us; contact us to arrange a meeting during the show.

Artists Studio Sale -  Jon Woolfenden’s Vibrant Art

Connoisseurs of British Art might already be aware of talented painter Jon Woolfenden whose large oil painting exhibited in the Summer Exhibition at the Royal Academy of Arts sold within 20 minutes at the private viewing. Woolfenden’s subjects are often industrial; Shipping tankers, merchant vessels, chains, tyres and even an abandoned safety glove, but his use of colour imbues each scene with an electrical liveliness.

Inspired by dockyard life on the South Coast and his travels, Woolfenden’s paintings bring a dynamic, contemporary atmosphere to homes or offices alike, a devotee of the ‘Kitchen Sink’ style, his art features in many public collections, such as the Museum of Labour History. Jon’s paintings are reminiscent of John Bratby’s work with thick layers of paint applied to the canvas but the comparison belies the intensity of Jon’s art, unlike Bratby who could knock out a canvas in an hour or so, Jon applies layer after layer over days of intense work, using brush, knife and even hands, the canvases engulf the senses with rust , diesel , the sea, you can hear the clank of the chains and the cries of the seagulls and smell the brine in the air.

At Hilditch we’ve livened up our reception and meeting rooms with Woolfenden’s eye-catching artwork and, as big fans of the artist, we’ve agreed to hold an online auction of his paintings next month. Keep an eye on our website and take advantage of this unique opportunity to invest in stunning pieces by a contemporary British artist. 

Better still take a trip down to sunny Salcombe  visit Jon’s studio and meet the artist himself, no mere photograph can do his paintings justice.

Invitation to Join Us at the IHEEM Annual Conference 

We’re looking forward to attending the Healthcare Estates Exhibition on the 7th and 8th of October at the Manchester Central exhibition centre. As the leading specialist auctioneer and asset manager to the health service, Hilditch will once again have a stand at the exhibition this year, and we would love to have a drink and a chat while we’re there and update you on developments at the Hilditch Group. We have grown significantly in the last few years and now offer a host of services in addition to the sale of assets.

Should you require more information on the conference or exhibition, or simply need directions, please visit the Healthcare Estates Conference and Exhibition website: http://www.healthcare-estates.com/. We very much look forward to seeing you at our stand, number F30!

Hilditch Group Help Engalynx Charity Establish Health Centre in Mwulire Sector, Rwanda.

The Mwulire Sector is located in the Eastern Provence. Until recently there was no Hospital or Health Centre and residents had to walk 22 miles for medical aid. For people with serious health issues or women with birth complications, this was a bleak situation. After being offered two possible locations, the Engalynx charity chose Ntunga, the “sector capital”, which was suitable for a Health Centre. Engalynx Trustees visited the Local Authority and the need for a centre was confirmed.

In 2011, Maralyn Bambridge met a team of volunteers from the global design and engineering firm, Arup. Their plans were approved by the Local Authorities in 2012, and detailed plans went out to tender in Rwanda. Building began in May 2013 and the much needed Maternity Unit opened on September 2014. Originally, it was agreed that the Ministry of Health would provide the equipment, however, due to problems Engalynx had to purchase the equipment themselves. As a charity they needed the best equipment, but at an affordable price. Hilditch Group were delighted to work with the charity and we helped them source their medical equipment from our salerooms in Malmesbury.

Hilditch Group Host Online Auction with MSI MedServ International GmbH

Hilditch are delighted to announce the sale results of a recent collaboration with MSI MedServ International GmbH, Germany – a member of the TBS Group. MSI are a leading company in the supply, repair and maintenance of Endoscopes, TEE probes and ultrasound probes.

We were pleased to have overseen two online scope auctions, based in Germany. The first sale featured  5 ex demo ‘as new’ rigid and flexible scopes and the second sale 39 flexible scopes.  The sales were a great success with strong bidding from our global buyer base and with many of the lots reaching beyond the upper end of their estimate price.

Given the resounding success of these German sales, we anticipate more auctions in association with MSI MedServ International GmbH and look forward to further medical sales in Europe.

Mount Carmel Hospital, Ireland - Hospital Contents Liquidation Auction

The complete medical assets of the Mount Carmel Hospital (in liquidation) were recently sold in several online auction sales. The auctions were hosted on the Hilditch Group website on behalf of the appointed Dublin based Auctioneers McKay & Associates Ltd, on the instructions of Joint Official Liquidators.

Given the specialist nature of the sale, McKay’s requested the involvement of Hilditch, as experts in the field of medical equipment sales. The two companies worked together to significantly exceed pre-sale estimates.

The auctions further our growing medical equipment sales presence in Europe, with these sales conducted in Euros. Keep an eye on our website for further European sales!

We were delighted to act as primary sponsor for the De Lange Landen Charity Golf Day on the 4^th September 2014. The event was held to raise funds for Home Start, which supports families in need. Senior Valuer/Manager, Neill Saint represented Hilditch, club swinging with all the enthusiasm of a caveman bagging his lunch. Marketing Manager Barney Grieg was also on hand to offer support, but despite this winning arrangement, victory was snatched by the Microsoft team.

There was however, the consolation of raising a significant sum on behalf of Home Start. The evening’s sports-themed raffle was a great success and the event raised over £7500. Everybody had enormous fun on behalf of a worthy cause. If you would like to know more about Home Start and find out about the invaluable services they offer to families with complex needs, you can click on this link: www.home-start.org.uk ”

UKRC United Kingdom Radiography Conference

Barney Greig, our Marketing Manager, attended the United Kingdom Radiography Conference on Wednesday the 11^th of June and also took the opportunity to meet with several NHS Trust clients in the Manchester area. It was a great chance to see the latest imaging equipment such as ultrasounds, CT scanners and C-arms from the key manufacturers demonstrated. It also provided “professional development” for Barney who, in addition to managing the marketing of our sales and services, conducts equipment valuations.

For those who haven’t attended UKRC, it is an annual event which also hosts a three-day multidisciplinary scientific conference and a technical exhibition alongside this. It is relevant to everyone involved in the field of radiological science and is a key date in the calendar.

Hilditch Girlies Race For Life

Huge congratulations to Becci, Sally-Anne, Joanne, Kavita and Anna who ran, jogged and walked (in that order!) to complete the 5k Cancer Research Race for Life on Saturday 31^st May.

Between them they raised over £2,100, however you can still donate here:  www.justgiving.com/Hilditch-Girlies. Thank you to everyone who sponsored them!

R3 South West & South Wales Regional Golf Day Event

We were very proud to be the main sponsor at the R3 South West & South Wales Regional Golf Day (The Association of Business Recovery Professionals), on Thursday the 22nd of May 2014 at the lovely St Pierre Hotel & Country Club, Chepstow.

Everyone enjoyed the day greatly and didn’t let the changeable “Spring” weather, or the threat of a lightning strike, dampen their enthusiasm. It was a good opportunity to meet with local business recovery specialists in an informal setting and talk about current market conditions.

 4th National Conference for Radiology Managers

We greatly enjoyed exhibiting at the conference, and meeting new and existing customers, which was held at the stunning Kings Place venue in London on the 15^th of May.  The venue featured great works of art and excellent food. The conference was a chance for Radiology Managers to exchange new ideas and network, and has become a key event in many Radiology Managers' years.

Although we specialise in the sale of medical equipment including CT and MRI scanners and other imaging equipment, some customers did not realise our strengths in imaging equipment – do please get in contact if you have any imaging equipment to sell!

Marketing Manager, Barney Greig, will be attending Medica this week - the world’s largest medical equipment trade exhibition - and he extends a warm invitation to all to meet with him. Barney will be enjoying the native culture of Germany whilst attending, of which German beer is an integral part he assures us!

Hilditch Group have booked a meeting room at the ABHI stand in the UK Pavilion, Hall 16, stand G19-1 on Wednesday 20th and Thursday 21st November. Please call in and meet Barney, or collect his details to arrange a meeting during the show.

We are delighted to announce we have been awarded the above contract, which formalizes the close relationship we have had with Welsh NHS Trusts over a number of years.