GI Dynamics, a leader in non-surgical, endoscopic treatments for type 2 diabetes and obesity, today announced it has entered into a new agreement with Elemental Healthcare, based in Hungerford, Berkshire, for the distribution of the EndoBarrier™ Gastrointestinal Liner in England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Ireland. The limited agreement provides Elemental Healthcare the rights to sell and distribute the EndoBarrier within these territories. The EndoBarrier, an innovative, non-surgical therapeutic, has received CE mark approval in Europe for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity and will be commercialized in certain markets later this year.
“Elemental Healthcare's proven sales track record, and experience in the diabetes and obesity markets and with bringing minimally invasive products to healthcare providers and surgeons, will be invaluable as the EndoBarrier becomes commercially available in select markets later this year.”
"GI Dynamics is very pleased to establish this partnership with Elemental Healthcare, a premier medical device distribution organization in the U.K.," stated Stuart A. Randle, chief executive officer of GI Dynamics. "Elemental Healthcare's proven sales track record, and experience in the diabetes and obesity markets and with bringing minimally invasive products to healthcare providers and surgeons, will be invaluable as the EndoBarrier becomes commercially available in select markets later this year."
In preparation for the European launch of the EndoBarrier, GI Dynamics and Elemental Healthcare are identifying, training and designating Centers of Excellence and expanding clinical experience with the EndoBarrier. The Centers of Excellence participating in this effort in the U.K. include St. Anthony's Hospital, Imperial College/St. Mary's Hospital, National Obesity Surgery Center (Manchester) and Southampton University Hospital. Designated Centers of Excellence will have exclusive access over the next several months to the EndoBarrier as a cornerstone of an overall patient care program to treat patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity.
Adam Power, managing director, Elemental Healthcare commented, "The epidemic of type 2 diabetes and obesity is an issue that cannot afford to be ignored and EndoBarrier addresses both of these concerns. We are excited about our partnership with GI Dynamics and proud that we can now offer U.K. and Northern Ireland-based physicians the most advanced non-surgical technology available on the market."