Intuitive a global technology leader in minimally invasive care and the pioneer of robotic-assisted surgery, today provided an update on its efforts to support customers, communities, and its employees during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The COVID-19 pandemic presents unprecedented challenges to global health care systems, care teams, and communities,” said Intuitive CEO GaryGuthart. “Intuitive is focused on the health and safety of our customers, our communities and our employees, through policies and initiatives designed to help.”
Communities
Intuitive and the Intuitive Foundation are working to assemble, donate, and distribute personal protective equipment (PPE) to hospitals and healthcarefacilities. To date, more than 100,000 pieces of PPE have been sourced or built, and then donated for distribution throughout the U.S. The company’sgoal is to manufacture and donate 1 million more face shields globally.
The Intuitive Foundation is also connecting employees with opportunities to volunteer in their communities. This includes a DIY face mask initiativeand engagement with healthcare and essential service-oriented non-profits and organizations. The Foundation (established in 2018 with a $25 milliongift from Intuitive), has also started a COVID-19 specific employee matching donation drive.
Customers
Intuitive recognizes the economic toll that COVID-19 has taken on hospitals and healthcare systems, and is introducing a series of programs toprovide financial relief to customers. Informed by customer needs, and recognizing the unique challenges each customer faces, this financial supportwill be customized and may include service credits, warranty extensions, and more flexible payment terms. Intuitive expects that the estimated valueof this financial support will range between $90 million and $130 million, and will not exceed $205 million.
“As different regions move through various stages of recovery, we believe that da Vinci surgery is an important minimally invasive option for hospitalsand surgeons to offer their patients,” Guthart said. “Our patients-first focus translates into doing our part in helping our customers deliver the very bestcare.”
Employees
Intuitive has taken numerous measures to minimize the spread of COVID-19 while continuing to provide essential services and support to customers.Intuitive implemented a work-from-home policy for the majority of employees globally. For employees who cannot work from home, Intuitive hasimplemented additional health and safety measures, including maximizing working space, changing shift schedules, and instituting mandatoryscreening and temperature checks.
Intuitive has implemented an expanded paid and sick leave program to support employees who are unable to work due to family care responsibilities,underlying health issues, connectivity issues, or other unique circumstances. The company is also providing premium pay for essential team memberswho continue to supply customers with the products needed to care for patients. In addition, there are Employee Assistance Programs that have beendeveloped or expanded to provide services and resources specific to the needs of employees at this time.
Editor's Note: This article originally appeared on Intuitive's website.
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