Bariatrics
By HME News Staff
Updated Wed September 30, 2009
Heavy duty problem
• Obesity out of control: Based on statistics alone, the bariatric market will continue to grow as 32% of men and 28% of women aged 60 or older are classified as clinically obese. Additionally, about 13 million U.S. children and adolescents have a body mass index above the 95th percentile. This growth, coupled with the fact that the products stretch across many different product categories, dictates that bariatric products will play a very important role in the industry for a long time to come.
bone up on bariatrics
• A lot to learn: Providers interested in becoming specialists in bariatrics should immerse themselves in all the dynamics of the market, including reimbursement, regulations, product specifications and clinical information on obesity. They should also develop a marketing strategy that includes awareness campaigns and counseling services for bariatric patients and caregivers.
Product evolution
• Modern manufacturing: Advancements in technology, such as motors, electronics, batteries and chargers, improves the function, performance and serviceability of products and results in fewer service calls on the back end. Weight capacities have gradually been raised, with some chairs reaching maximums of 650 pounds to 700 pounds and patient lifts handling up to 1,100 pounds.
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