Covid-19: Greece Joins rescEU Medical Equipment Reserve

Photo Source: @European Commission

Greece has joined the rescEU medical equipment reserve program, building up stocks of critical medical supplies to confront the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.

Following the European Commission’s approval, Greece – along with Denmark, Hungary and Sweden – has joined Germany and Romania in the rescEU scheme.

With financial support from the European Commission, the six EU member states are building up common European stocks of lifesaving protective and other vital medical equipment that can be distributed across Europe at times of medical emergencies, for example when national health systems are overwhelmed by coronavirus patients.

Total EU funding toward Greece will reach 55.5 million euros.

Photo Source: @European Commission

“With winter approaching and coronavirus cases increasing across Europe, building up stocks of critical medical equipment is crucial. With the further host states, rescEU is stepping up a gear. We will be much stronger in fighting the pandemic by working together,” said Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarčič.

The rescEU capacity can include different types of medical equipment, such as protective masks or medical ventilators used in intensive care, and is constantly replenished. The reserve is hosted by several member states who are responsible for procuring the equipment. The European Commission finances 100% of the assets, including storage and transport.

The Emergency Response Coordination Centre then manages the distribution of the equipment to ensure it goes where it is needed most, based on the needs expressed by countries requesting EU assistance under the Union Civil Protection Mechanism.