On 21 October, the International Health Cooperative Organisation (IHCO) held its General Assembly. The IHCO President reviewed the achievements of the past year, while delegates outlined the operational challenges and accomplishments of their respective member organisations.
Delegates approved a Work Plan for 2027 that aligns with the ICA 2026–2030 strategy. The plan is based on three pillars: Practice, Promote, and Protect. It sets four objectives: support the creation and growth of health cooperatives, strengthen the member network and inter-cooperation, increase recognition by public and multilateral bodies, and advance supportive public policies. This framework aims to help health cooperatives deliver quality, equitable, and sustainable healthcare and create jobs with fair working conditions.
The assembly officially admitted i+Med as a full member. i+Med is a cooperative of scientists built on democratic principles. Its researchers share directly in the organisation’s success, which strengthens local ties, community engagement, and collective decision-making.
As a European leader in biomedical devices based on nanohydrogels and controlled-release systems, i+Med uses its innovative technology to manage the complete pipeline from research to commercialisation across areas like traumatology, ophthalmology, dermatology, and aesthetics.
Supported by over 200 professionals, its track record boasts 14 technological patents, 25 clinical trials, and 20 medical devices on the market. By combining cutting-edge biotechnology with cooperative values, i+Med demonstrates how democratic enterprise models deliver transformative solutions for global health.