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Thoughts from our Chief Executive
Mr. Rod Bull
As I write, already a third of the year has rapidly slipped by. I am pleased to report that the Hospital Group is coping despite the financial downturn which is, as expected, having an affect on the donations we receive.
During the final quarter of 2008 we took urgent corrective action to reduce expenditure levels in order to limit anticipated operating losses. A major contributing factor to the problems we foresaw was the deteriorating sterling/shekel exchange rate, which significantly impacted on the purchasing power of funds raised. We remain extremely prudent in all areas and our Hospital Board continues to carefully monitor the situation.
Despite the gloom, we were thrilled with the response to our Gaza Clinic Appeal last year. Following this year’s hostilities, the Clinic was able to re-open in January and patient attendances quickly returned to normal levels. Elsewhere, clinical activity at the other units within the Group continues to rise. Our remarkable staff are, as ever, performing exceptionally well and are responding positively to each new challenge that presents itself. We are conscious there remains much more to be achieved if we are to make an impact on the increasing demands placed upon us.
Subject to funding being forthcoming, we would very much like to be able to increase the number of surgical sessions we provide at the Hebron Hospital, as well as the number of laser treatments for diabetic patients at the Anabta Clinic. Our Health education programmes within the West Bank and Gaza also are in need of enhancement.
However, I would like to take this opportunity to praise the efforts of our fundraising teams in London and Jerusalem, both of which are going that extra mile to secure donations and ensure the continuation of our Mission. As always I extend my gratitude to all our supporters around the world.
CEO, Rod Bull