Consult Further About Donations of...

PAHO/WHO

· Used medical equipment. Specifications must be provided. If the value of the equipment justifies it, an on-site inspection may be arranged by a technician in the donor country or an international agency.

· New equipment. When considering these donations, take into account the cost of air freight, the continued availability of spare parts, and local availability of personnel who are trained in operation and maintenance of the equipment. Most manufacturers are willing to wait several days to allow technical consultation with the appropriate Ministry.

· Tents. Many countries stock a large quantity of locally manufactured tents. The funds that donors are willing to spend to purchase and air-lift tents could be put to better use by purchasing reconstruction materials locally.

· Vaccines. They are most often neither needed nor approved by the corresponding Ministry of Health. Check the presentation, dose, and expiration date and inform the Ministry of Health, or check with PAHO/WHO.