Abermed has increased its global presence by acquiring a 65% share in Kazanada, a medical care company in Kazakhstan.

The acquisition will provide a platform for Abermed’s expansion into Kazakhstan and the Caspian Sea Region, as well as exploring other business opportunities in the Former Soviet Union.

Kazanada provides private pre-hospital medical services and clinics, with a considerable amount of its work coming from the coal and uranium mining industries as well as oil and gas extraction and refining.

The company employs 120 people in 20 clinics across Kazakhstan, with plans for expansion into Western Kazakhstan.

It was set up in 2005 by Canadian Kevin Freake, who will continue as General Director.

As well as offering major growth opportunities, the partnership will see specialists from Abermed training local staff in Kazakhstan.

Donald MacKenzie, Commercial Director at Abermed, said: “We are delighted to have acquired a stake in Kazanada, which will continue to operate under this name – one which is recognised in Kazakhstan.

“This is a significant move for us and a key step towards further internationalisation. With a large percentage of our existing business coming from the North Sea, the Caspian Sea is one of the priority areas for us but without local contacts that may have proved to be very difficult.

“Working with Kazanada will have clear benefits for us both – giving us the chance to share our skills and expertise with the local employees in Kazakhstan while offering us a base to grow Abermed as a business in the Caspian and explore other opportunities in this region of the world - China is just two hours away from the eastern side of Kazakhstan.”

Kevin Freake said Abermed’s experience in occupational health services to industry made it a particularly attractive prospect.

“I went looking for partners and my first thought was the North Sea, so with its experience, Abermed was the obvious choice. Abermed’s progressive approach to occupational health sets it apart from other companies.

“I am very much looking forward to working with Abermed and raising the level of health care provided to the local area.

“We both share the same values in medical care provision and having Abermed on board will allow us to share knowledge and best practice. We will be able to use Abermed’s expertise to train our people and utilise the best aspects of both systems, while continuing to contribute to the local economy.”

Kazanada’s primary work is with a coal mine which employs 7,000 people, drilling companies, oil field services and an oil refinery, with an additional office in the financial capital of Kyzylorda.

As well as family doctor services and ambulance services, it also offers workplace inspections, staffed clinics at work places or in cities, medicals and first aid training, as well as audits of facilities.