New Webinar series: Respironics takes providers to school

MURRYSVILLE, Pa. - Philips Electronics acquired Respironics for $5.1 billion in late 2007, and now that the dust has settled, it's full steam ahead.

Philips Respironics has launched an all out effort to expand beyond its traditional emphasis on obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). That could include solutions for insomnia, circadian rhythm issues and other sleep disorders, Don Spence, CEO of Philips Home Healthcare Solutions, told HME News TV recently.

Philips is well known for its flat screen TVs and other consumer products. It also has a lighting business and a hospital product division. The company's resources offer some exciting opportunities, Spence said.

"As we look at other areas to grow in, we have tremendous opportunity to leverage (Philips') deep insight and technology--everything from their extensive industry design capabilities to their pure research capabilities," Spence said. "We are looking for clinically validated projects, not gadgets--something that is a very clinically meaningful way to help patients improve their sleep."

And of course, Spence pointed out, Respironics continues to vigorously promote the importance of home care.

For more on how Philips Electronics has integrated Respironics into the company, log onto www.hmenews.com and watch Spence's interview on HME News TV.

New Webinar series

Philips Respironics has launched a series of free educational Webinars for home respiratory and sleep therapy professionals. Presented by clinical researchers, physicians, respiratory therapists or Philips Respironics experts, the "Know How" Webinars provide information on business and clinical issues, products and programs. Clinical sessions cover the latest findings in the field. These include: monitoring COPD patient oxygen levels while in flight; using automatic algorithms in

home ventilation; and identifying obstructive sleep apnea and related co-morbidities. Business Webinars cover topics such as reimbursement guidelines, cost-saving strategies, and equipment selection. For more information, go to http://knowhow.respironics.com.