Good Afternoon all,
Firstly - many thanks for the comprehensive response from all you - it's been very useful and informative already.
I'll try and address some of the questions/points that have been raised as best I can (please bear in mind that my knowledge both on ventilation and the current requirements is limited!)
1) This call is not for NIV, it's for ventilators suitable for intubation
2) I've seen the statistics from ventilated patients from Wuhan - doesn't make for good reading, but at least some lives have been saved
3) I'm developing my understanding of the machines used with anaesthesia vs standard ventilators, but any further pointers on this would be good - out of the "legacy machines" can you advise which would be the best to focus on for a starting point?
4) looks like some good work underway to get database (can't beat a spreadsheet!) of available equipment nationally, so that resources can be pooled - it's not the scope of what I'm looking at, but sounds great.
5) In terms of the initial spec that UK Gov has produced, I will PM it to each of you for your review - I'm not sure if I'm allowed to share in public domain directly, so that seems best (anyone else wanting a copy just send me note)
6) Completely agree that the simplest approach is the licencing of an older model for general manufacture - it's the equivalent of issuing Boer war rifles to the home guard in WW2 - certainly not ideal, but will definitely do a job. A design from scratch seems
7) Basic functionality, reliability and ease of use seem to be the order of the day
8) Within limits, there will be a relaxation of the medical device regulations
9) I believe that the existing manufacturers are being engaged with, hence my interest in older devices that might be from companies that are now defunct, or no longer manufacture ventilators.
Thanks M.
