On November 3rd and 4th,
more than thirty representatives of Medical Surplus Recovery
Organizations (MSROs), donors of surplus medical equipment and
consumables, and academics met to explore the challenges and benefits
that building a working alliance may have for individual organizations,
donors, recipients, and the field of medical surplus recovery over all.
Our mission? Stop the flow of useless and inappropriate medical
supplies that are donated to developing countries where they become a
burden and cause more harm than healing.
Medical Surplus Recovery Organizations (MSROs)
are non-profits that collect quality medical donations from hospitals
and manufacturers to distribute to healthcare providers in developing
countries. MSROs are fueled by generous donors, skilled staff and
devoted volunteers working hard to provide hope and resources to
underserved populations during times of medical need. The conference
participants ship nearly 1000 40 ft. containers each year. Their work
benefits people and the planet by redistributing existing resources to
people and places that need them.
The MedSurplus Alliance was formed to support
MSRO operations and to change the hearts and minds of donors regarding
what can and should be donated. It’s a tough challenge, we know!
However, in
‘The Answer to How is Yes: Acting on What Matters”,
Peter Block asserts that when we are driven by clear and powerful
purpose, we find ways around the obstacles that arise. VisonLink also
believes that we’re better together than working alone. The MedSurplus
Alliance is committed to focusing on its mission and serving its
stakeholders while honoring the different strengths, operational
realities, and approaches among them.
Would you like to learn more or join us? Please visit
www.medsurplusalliance.org to read the
MSRO Code of Conduct and learn about the coming
MSRO Accreditation program.
Please share your ideas or suggestions to strengthen the conversation!
Lori Warrens
Senior Director of Community Solutions
VisionLink