A burgeoning population, health conditions and diseases that are merely treated — not cured — and more efficient diagnostic practices make the respiratory market a solid profit center that continues to increase. Jacquelyn McClure BS, RRT, director of Lubbock, Texas-based The MED Group’s National Respiratory Network, says home oxygen and treatment for sleep-disordered breathing are the segments of the respiratory market that are bringing providers the most revenues, but adds that information technology is also making a strong impact. According to McClure, technologies that can replace routine activities to free up labor for complex problem-solving and assessment activities are on the rise. Baby boomers are moving into an age group or category where they are needing or requiring supplementary oxygen, says Ron Richard, Poway, Calif.-based...

In a market driven by price and fierce competition, it seems unlikely that manufacturers of manual wheelchairs would be interested in improving current products and developing new ones. Fortunately for providers and end-users, manufacturers — while cognizant of the restraints placed on them — continue to look forward, envisioning better products that provide greater independence to end-users. Mike Serhan, vice president of Dr. K Healthcare Products, says manufacturers who are in the market for the “long-term” must differentiate themselves from others through innovation, faster response times and a commitment to serving their providers. As Serhan and others know, competition among home medical equipment providers is increasing, and cost is the best bargaining chip for some providers. “Smart providers understand quality, reliability and service, but they...