Dear IFHE Members, Friends, and Colleagues,
As the year comes to a close, I find myself writing this Christmas letter with a deep sense of gratitude and reflection. This marks my final Christmas message as the General Secretary of the International Federation of Healthcare Engineering (IFHE), a position that has brought me immense joy, challenges, and fulfillment over the years.2024 has undoubtedly been a turbulent year for us all, filled with changes and new
directions. Among the most significant shifts, we undertook the monumental task of
moving IFHE’s business operations to Switzerland. This transition required a
tremendous amount of planning, coordination, and resilience. I am immensely proud
of our team and the support from our membership, who ensured that this change
strengthened our foundation and prepared us for future growth.
One of the year’s highlights was the incredible IFHE Congress in Cape Town. It was
an inspiring gathering, bringing together experts and passionate professionals from
all corners of the world. The energy, ideas, and collaborations that emerged from our
time together remind me of why healthcare engineering is such a vital field—and why
IFHE’s mission matters now more than ever.
Throughout the year, our close collaboration with the World Health Organization
(WHO) has also been instrumental in advancing healthcare engineering globally.
Working together to address critical healthcare needs has been both challenging and
rewarding. I am grateful for WHO’s commitment to this partnership and for the
dedication of everyone involved in our joint projects.
Additionally, 2024 saw the launch of a comprehensive review and update of IFHE’s
standing orders—a project essential for aligning our organization’s governance with
the evolving needs of our members and partners. This process has been extensive,
but it is essential for ensuring that IFHE remains adaptable and forward-thinking in its
role as a leader in healthcare engineering.
As I prepare to pass the torch, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all our
members around the world. Your contributions, whether large or small, fuel our
organization and make it possible for us to thrive in challenging times. It has been an
honor and privilege to work alongside such dedicated individuals, and I am excited to
see what the future holds for IFHE under new leadership.
Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful Christmas and a healthy, prosperous New
Year. May 2025 bring continued success, collaboration, and innovation for us all.
Warmest regards,
Gunnar Baekken
IFHE General Secretary