The International Express Freight Service, which is part of the Department of Health and Social Care’s National Supply Disruption Response (NSDR), has launched to deliver products to the UK rapidly to guarantee patients can access to the treatments they need in the absence of the suppliers own logistical problems.
The aim of the service is to collect and deliver parcels within 24 to 48 hours and pallets or shipments within 2 to 4 working days. The new services will ensure minimal disruption to the supply of crucial medical goods.
According to the government, medicines and other medical supplies that are at risk of a shortage will be transported and delivered to the UK rapidly using the new freight system.
Health Minister Edward Argar said: ‘Our absolute priority is to help ensure NHS patients can always access the treatments they need without delay.’
‘Global supply chains are unpredictable, and our new International Express Freight Service will rapidly transport medical products in shortage to the UK within days.’
‘We are committed to building back stronger from the pandemic, and more resilient supply chains are a crucial part of that.’
On behalf of the UK government, Kuehne+Nagel International will be running the freight services. Stuart Innes, Air Logistics Director UK, Kuehne+Nagel International, said: ‘Kuehne+Nagel are committed to ensuring the UK public continue to receive the treatment they need, when they need it most.’
‘We are immensely proud to be providing the logistical support behind the International Express Freight Service for the Department of Health and Social Care, applying our expertise, capabilities and robust global network to transport critical medical supplies.’
