Provider celebrates decade of service

NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. - In upstate New York, where economic development is big news, Health System Services is making headlines. The company celebrated its 10-year anniversary Oct. 18 at its new headquarters. The family-owned company began as a supplier of HME and billing services to long-term care facilities and hospitals before branching into the retail market in 2001. Expanding its presence made sense because HHS was already handling a lot of product, said Doug Mooradian, account executive. "It's a nice marriage," he said. "We are serving the local community, but also the (facilities) we are contracted with." HHS now has over 30 employees and serves 2,000 individuals and 110 healthcare facilities in 12 states. HME comprises about 25% of overall sales. The company offers a full line of HME, along with enteral, ostomy and wound care supplies. Jeff Rose, vice president , said part of HHS's growth strategy has been to stay diversified. "We won't say no even if, in the short term, it's not profitable," said Rose. "Buffalo is a very competitive market and we will do what no one else will." The new space has a 3,000-square-foot retail showroom, warehouse and offices. HHS was able to take advantage of low interest loans and tax breaks to revitalize a long-vacant furniture store. "We have a development agency that is supportive of young, growing companies," said Mooradian. "We have too many companies going in the other direction." The new headquarters is located in a burgeoning medical corridor, with a hospital satellite office, labs, doctor's offices, physical therapists and five senior apartment complexes located within a half mile. A full slate of hot topics for seniors, like Alzheimer's, identity theft and long-term care insurance, is planned in the company's new meeting space. Mooradian said community involvement is a key part of the company's success. "It sounds hokey, but we're a big business with small-town values," said Mooradian. "Our clients feel they matter."