Richard Stockton sent me a press release issued by IAMERS (International Association of Medical Equipment Remarketers and Servicers) in which Diana Upton, president of IAMERS, states that IAMERS members are available to deliver pre-owned diagnostic imaging equipment in Africa.

The press release was in reaction to President Obama's "Doing Business in Africa Campaign" and his recent meeting with 50 African leaders.

As a founding member of IAMERS, I applaud this initiative. It is no secret that I would like to see more of IAMERS' resources invested in opening markets, which are closed and promoting the activities of IAMERS members.

I have heard estimates that over 50 percent of the world market forbids the sale of used medical equipment. This is, in part, reaction to a handful of less than reputable firms selling what can only be described as "junk" as well as efforts by manufacturers and local protectionist policies.

In the end, I believe that closed doors hurt the global market. There are entities that cannot afford to buy new equipment that would benefit from buying used. If you can sell your used machine and generate revenue, you are more likely to buy something new and on top of everything else, it is a waste for serviceable equipment to not be put to good use.

It is my belief that if pre-owned equipment remains salable in the open market, then everyone benefits.

Ironically, I believe there is probably greater demand in Africa for equipment more basic than gear that is sold by IAMERS members but I nevertheless applaud Diana Upton and the IAMERS board for their efforts. I hope this signals a new direction for IAMERS.

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