I applaud the sentiment Paul, but (sadly) if you were to apply that criteria across the board you wouldn't have a lot of new kit in a British hospital these days, would you?
A few more thoughts occur:-
1) You could get a "company" to import the stuff for you (especially if you're after a "reasonable quantity")
2) Second-hand equipment is always available
3) If all else fails - there's always eBay!
Let us know how you get on in your quest!
