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Vol. 13
ADVANCING THE BIOMEDICAL / HTM PROFESSIONAL
MARCH 2022
Right to Repair Update A MOVEMENT GAINING MOMENTUM PAGE 56
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Professional of the Month: John Mouhanna
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20th Anniversary MD Expo Celebrates 20 Years
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Biomed 101 Gaining Organizational BuyIn for RTLS Asset Tracking
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The Other Side You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know
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TechNation (Vol. 13, Issue #3) March 2022 is published monthly by MD Publishing, 1015 Tyrone Rd., Ste. 120, Tyrone, GA 30290. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to TechNation at 1015 Tyrone Rd., Ste. 120, Tyrone, GA 30290. TechNation magazine is dedicated to providing medical equipment service professionals with comprehensive, reliable, information concerning medical equipment, parts, service and supplies. It is published monthly by MD Publishing, Inc. Subscriptions are available free of charge to qualified individuals within the United States. Publisher reserves the right to determine qualification for a free subscriptions. Every precaution is taken to ensure accuracy of content; however, the information, opinions, and statements expressed in the articles and advertisements herein are those of the writer and/or advertiser, and not necessarily those of the publisher. ©2022
EMPOWERING THE BIOMEDICAL/HTM PROFESSIONAL
MARCH 2022
TECHNATION
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CONTENTS
PUBLISHER
John M. Krieg
VICE PRESIDENT
Kristin Leavoy
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Jayme McKelvey Megan Strand
ART DEPARTMENT
Karlee Gower Taylor Powers Kameryn Johnson
EDITORIAL
John Wallace
CONTRIBUTORS
Roger Bowles K. Richard Douglas Jim Fedele Joie Marhefka Manny Roman Connor Walsh David Witt Steven J. Yelton
DIGITAL SERVICES
Cindy Galindo Kennedy Krieg
EVENTS
Kristin Leavoy
WEBINARS
Jennifer Godwin
HTMJOBS.COM
Kristen Register Sydney Krieg
ACCOUNTING
Diane Costea
EDITORIAL BOARD
Jim Fedele, CBET, Senior Director of Clinical Engineering, UPMC Carol Davis-Smith, CCE, FACCE, AAMIF, Owner/ President of Carol Davis-Smith & Associates, LLC David Francoeur, CBET, CHTM, Service Zone Vice President Midwest Imaging - Siemens Healthineers Jennifer DeFrancesco, DHA, MS, CHTM, System Director, Clinical Engineering, Crothall Healthcare Rob Bundick, Director HTM & Biomedical Engineering, ProHealth Care
INSIDE Departments P.12 SPOTLIGHT p.12 Department of the Month: The Children’s Mercy Kansas City Biomedical Engineering Department p.14 Professional of the Month: John Mouhanna p.18 Association of the Month: The North Central Biomedical Association (NCBA) P.20 MD Expo Celebrates 20 Years P.24 p.24 p.32 p.34 p.36 p.38
INDUSTRY UPDATES News & Notes Welcome to TechNation Ribbon Cutting AAMI Update ECRI Update
P.41 p.41 p.42 p.44 p.47
THE BENCH Tools of the Trade Biomed 101 Webinar Wednesday Shop Talk
P.63 EXPERT ADVICE p.63 Career Center p.64 20/20 Imaging Insights: Is it 3D, 4D, or 3D/4D, and what is 5D Ultrasound? p.67 Cybersecurity: Hardening your Medical Inventory: Let’s Get Physical p.69 The Future: Education Shifts Gears Amid COVID-19 p.71 The Other Side: You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know P.74 p.74 p.76 p.78 p.80 p.86
BREAKROOM HTMA-OH Expo The Vault HTM Jobs MedWrench Bulletin Board HTM Strong
p.83 Service Index p.83 Alphabetical Index MD Publishing / TechNation Magazine 1015 Tyrone Rd., Ste. 120, Tyrone, GA 30290 800.906.3373 • Fax: 770.632.9090 Email: info@mdpublishing.com www.mdpublishing.com
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SPOTLIGHT
SPOTLIGHT
DEPARTMENT OF THE MONTH: The Children’s Mercy Kansas City Biomedical Engineering Department
BY: K. RICHARD DOUGLAS
T
he recent Omicron variant has affected more children than previous COVID-19 strains. This has impacted many pediatric hospitals. It is another reminder of how important these institutions are to the health care needs of the patients who rely on them; especially the youngest patients.
During more normal times, when the nation is not struggling with a contagious virus, the work of pediatric hospitals is especially important. In Kansas City, Missouri, one of these critically important facilities is Children’s Mercy Kansas City. Children have been treated at Children’s Mercy for more than 120 years. The nonprofit treats a half-million patients annually. In addition to the hospital, there are outpatient clinics and urgent care centers throughout Kansas and Missouri. The Biomedical Engineering Department at Children’s Mercy is comprised of its clinical engineering team and its medical equipment management services (MEMS) team. Clinical Engineering Shop Manager Kevin Johnson leads a talented team.
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“Our clinical engineering department consists of Tony Orlick, diagnostic imaging/remote clinics team lead; Harold Golden, CBET, projects/IT team lead and Dominick Pritchard, general team lead. Including team leads, our three teams consist of the diagnostic imaging/ remote clinics team with four members, our projects/IT team consists of four members and our general team consists of 13 members,” Johnson says. He adds that the department also includes its MEMS team, which is managed by Barry Vogelbacher, MEMS operations manager. “The MEMS department consists of about 24 medical equipment technicians and respiratory equipment technicians. A variety of our technicians have CET, CBET, networking certifications and other types of credentialing and degrees or are actively working towards these,” Johnson says. Overseeing the entire biomedical department is Director Karl McCombs. “The Biomedical Engineering Department includes clinical engineering as well as our MEMS department, which provides low-level equipment disinfection
and distribution of medical equipment. The collaboration with MEMS helps in the equipment rotation process for capturing items due for PM. Our imbedded cybersecurity technicians help bridge the gap between conventional IT and biomedical technicians and keeps us on the forefront of cybersecurity vulnerabilities and threats,” Johnson says. The department supports medical equipment in two primary care hospitals, one located in downtown Kansas City, Missouri and the other located in Overland Park, Kansas, which consist of a combined 366 patient beds. “We also have numerous urgent care facilities and specialty clinics located throughout the metropolitan Kansas City area as well as Kansas and Missouri. We are the only pediatric Level-1 trauma center and Level-4 NICU in the region, and we are the largest stand-alone pediatric hospital between St. Louis, Missouri and Denver, Colorado. In addition, we have the only pediatric CICU capability in the region. Finally, we have our new 10-story Children’s Mercy Research
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Institute which specializes in pediatric illnesses, medication and treatment research,” Johnson says. Contracts are managed by the department’s clinical engineering department in conjunction with the internal contract services supply chain department. “We coordinate our contract coverage with our customer departments. While we support many items with our staff, we also have contracts on a variety of products that are OEM-only supported, and we also have first-look agreements in place,” Johnson says. He says that data collection is obtained through a CMMS database that is also used for determining staffing productivity, planned maintenance and corrective maintenance work order statistics, for assisting customer departments in the capital budgeting and life-cycle process as well as for tracking cybersecurity and equipment recall remediation matters. “We use the MediMizer as our CMMS database, Medigate for our cybersecurity purposes, and Cetani for our RTLS tracking purposes,” Johnson says. Members of the teams cover a wide array of specialties. “We support a wide variety of products at our facility with OEM training for our technicians, either at an OEM training facility or we sometimes have the OEMs provide onsite technical training for our
technicians,” Johnson says. He says that as a pediatric hospital, some examples of critical care equipment the team services include anesthesia machines, the ventilator fleet, all infant care products, monitoring systems, lab and research areas and imaging products. “We support over 98 percent of our installed base internally,” he says. Putting these specialties into practice, the department members provide planned maintenance, corrective service and recall remediation oversight for medical equipment at the facilities located in the Kansas City metropolitan area as well as the remote clinic locations in Kansas and Missouri. Collaboration and cooperation with IT are easier when you have expertise within the biomed team. “As mentioned above, our department includes three imbedded IT technicians on our Projects/IT team who collaborate with the Children’s Mercy IS/IT and cybersecurity groups. Our IT technicians also work with our equipment integration into the EMR,” Johnson says. INVOLVED BIOMEDS Along with day-to-day responsibilities, the department members have also addressed many special projects and are involved with their local association and assist in the training of new biomeds. “Some of the projects that we have been recently involved with include a house-wide transition of our defibrillators
EMPOWERING THE BIOMEDICAL/HTM PROFESSIONAL
and AEDs units to a different manufacturer, we have a dedicated cybersecurity that are part of the clinical engineering department, replacement of imaging rooms, the creation of the first pediatric CICU in our area, doubling the size of our NICU to 84 bays, and the involvement with our new 10-story research tower expansion,” Johnson says. Away from the workplace, the team is involved in the larger HTM community, as well as helping new biomeds to start careers. “We are very involved with our local HTM association (HTMA-MW), and we also participate in advisory capacities to our local community colleges and State Tech in Linn, Missouri for their HTM program. In addition, we also provide internship programs for State Tech as well as other military sponsored internships, for people interested in getting into the HTM career field,” Johnson says. The health of children in the greater Kansas City area isn’t only achieved through great clinicians but also the dedicated HTM professionals at Children’s Mercy Kansas City. Through expertise and specialization, they keep the medical equipment maintained while serving the greater good of the HTM community. At the time of writing, the department had some open positions. Learn more: https://www.childrensmercy.org/careers.
MARCH 2022
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SPOTLIGHT
SPOTLIGHT
BIOMETRICS FAVORITE BOOK: “The Greatest Generation” by Tom Brokaw
PROFESSIONAL OF THE MONTH: JOHN MOUHANNA Software Glitch to Lifelong Career
BY: K. RICHARD DOUGLAS
T
he Y2K concern at the end of the 1990s was characterized as something that could disrupt life as we knew it. The concern was that the internal clocks on computers, medical devices and other electronics would not be able to transition to the year 2000 and the new millennium.
This international concern with a technology bug led one biomed to his first gig. John Mouhanna, HTM III/lead tech at University Hospitals St. John Medical
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Center in Westlake, Ohio, changed career fields and got his break in HTM because of Y2K. “I was in the automotive field at the time and visiting a very sick family member at a hospital. A tech walked into the room to check the patient monitor; I remember it was a Spacelabs model. After he left, my family member mentioned that I should get into that field as it’s clean and I’d be good at it,” Mouhanna says. He says that after a while, he decided to do some research and see if the Healthcare Technology Management
(HTM) field was right for him. “I called Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) in Cleveland, Ohio and requested information and course curriculum. I looked over all the courses I would need to take and said to myself; I can do this. I started taking night classes, and as they say, the rest is history,” Mouhanna says. During his early training, Mouhanna spent three months doing a clinical internship at Parma Community General Hospital in Parma, Ohio. “After my internship, I shadowed the biomed techs at Parma on my days off
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from my regular job to gain as much experience as possible. It paid off as I was offered a PRN job and got my foot in the door,” he says. After he graduated in 1997, Mouhanna stayed in contact with the clinical engineering team at Parma Community Hospital. “I received a call mid-summer in 1999 from Parma Hospital to help with Y2K testing of clocks on medical devices where I began as a PRN employee,” he says. “Soon after, I was hired on full time as a biomed one and did that for two years. Job titles began to change and I was moved up to a biomed II level. After 12 years, I left Parma Hospital and took a senior BMET position and lead tech at Elyria Memorial Hospital in Elyria, Ohio. After nine and a half years, I transferred to University Hospitals St. John Medical Center to take on the role of HTM lead tech III,” Mouhanna adds. In terms of specialization, Mouhanna says that early in his career he focused on critical care and life support equipment. “I grew along with it and have trained in patient monitoring and telemetry through factory training with OEMs. I also trained in ventilators and anesthesia units with OEMs, so they are my strong points,” he says. GIVING BACK Like most biomeds, Mouhanna has faced some challenges, which often turned out to be a learning experience. On many occasions he has worked with an OEM removing or installing new patient monitoring devices while patients were being monitored. He says that not having patient care disrupted is vital as well as following infection control guidelines for cleanliness that have to be on a high level. “On a few occasions, the hospital purchased new anesthesia units and patient monitoring for surgery rooms. Working with the OEM to set up and switch units, without any disruption in surgery cases, I also set up training for anesthesia and surgery staff,” Mouhanna says. He says that one of his biggest challenges was being involved in surgery room renovations. He worked to get rooms ready for cases while construction was being done on other rooms. “I worked with IT, facilities, construction crews, vendors and supply to get new rooms equipped and ready for use on a scheduled timeline. I learned so much about rules, regulations, inspections, infection control and all in getting renovated rooms ready for use to start surgery cases,” Mouhanna says. “I was also part of another great team at University Hospitals Elyria Medical Center; there we were awarded department of the month through TechNation in a February
EMPOWERING THE BIOMEDICAL/HTM PROFESSIONAL
FAVORITE MOVIE: “The Godfather”
FAVORITE FOOD: Italian Food
HIDDEN TALENT:
This comes from my automotive background. The ability to know what I need, as in parts, tools before I go to a department to do repairs, or PMs. I also plan in my mind all scenarios, as in what I may need, or a plan of action for an emergency call. When a biomed gets such a call for surgery or critical care areas, all eyes are on you entering a room to help the staff, so being prepared is very vital.
WHAT’S ON MY BENCH?
Coffee mug, Rolodex, cellphone/charger, daily calendar/ meetings, reading glasses.
FAVORITE PART OF BEING A BIOMED?
“My favorite part of being a biomed are many, but having a hand in helping patients and staff is important to me. I also love the interaction with staff, listening to their ideas and concerns in how to help make their environment better and efficient.”
2021 article,” he adds. Mouhanna describes himself as a humble person and says that he loves his career and could not see himself doing anything else. “I feel so fulfilled giving back to my school by helping yearly interns as I was one once. Watching them grow and when internships are complete, it is a pleasure to see them begin their careers. I feel strongly that giving back to your school is something everyone should do,” he says. In terms of hobbies, Mouhanna says that he has always loved cars. He did once work in the automotive field for 20 years. He says he grew up a huge muscle car lover. “I enjoy going to drag racing strips and classic car shows. I also love going to shooting ranges as I have a group of friends who share the same interest,” he says. On the home front, time with family is important. “I’m very close with my family and they mean the world to me as I spend as much time as possible with them,” Mouhanna says. Who would have thought that a software bug would have been the entry to a lifelong career? This biomed has made the most of that opportunity and given back to the field that he enjoys.
MARCH 2022
TECHNATION
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SPOTLIGHT
SPOTLIGHT
ASSOCIATION OF THE MONTH:
The North Central Biomedical Association (NCBA)
BY: K. RICHARD DOUGLAS
A
lthough North Dakota and Minnesota have been ranked in the top 10 for quality of life, for those who have a cold intolerance, they may not be the best choices. January can be downright intolerable.
The Dakotas are a part of the U.S. region known as the Northern Plains. Biomeds in that region have to be rugged and be able to deal with snow and ice as well as medical devices. Serving those biomeds in the Northern Plains and beyond is the North Central Biomedical Association (NCBA). The group’s website states, “The NCBA is an organization of BMETs, Clinical Engineers, students, and other Healthcare Technology Management (HTM) professionals.” The NCBA serves the HTM community in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and Iowa. The organization was officially started in 1989 by Neil Greninger, Deborah O’Leary, John Roth and Jim Skipper, according to President Michael Walker. By 1990, the groups’ numbers had grown nearly five-fold. Three years later, NCBA held its first conference.
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In addition to education, one of the association’s primary goals is to help replenish the diminishing numbers of biomeds in the region. “Currently, the focus is on finding enough qualified workers to support the growing need, due to baby boomers retiring and contracts being brought in house. The schools are not turning out enough students to support the need. Many different ideas are currently being kicked around on how best to fill the void,” Walker says. The association hosts regular meetings to keep members engaged. The group will make use of technology to further allow participation. “NCBA meets quarterly at different hosting sites. Typically, the hosting sites have been hospitals or schools that offer HTM programs. Our last outing was with a supporting HTM vendor. We are looking to increase our visibility and attendance with members by offering online participation, thus keeping HTM engaged throughout the year (as opposed to just the yearly seminar),” Walker says. NCBA has awarded scholarships as a tool to help bring new biomeds into the field. “NCBA has had a scholarship
program from time to time over the years,” Walker says. He says that last year, the group was able to award “scholarships again due to the generosity of our vendors wanting to give back. These scholarships will be awarded by a written essay on why they want to be a biomed.” With the diminishing number of colleges and technical schools offering biomed curriculums, many HTM associations have tried to connect with these institutions or involve students in association activities. “I would not say we have a special relationship with any specific school. We welcome any and all schools that are interested in NCBA and HTM. We do try and cultivate relationships with schools to support employing their students upon graduation, as this is a common goal (need and supply). The students we see most at our NCBA event are from Winona State College Southeast, Dakota County Technical College, [and] Western Technical College,” Walker says.
the pandemic, the NCBA still brought biomeds together for an event last year. The group held its 2021 conference at the Arrowwood Resort in Alexandria, Minnesota. “The annual NCBA Conference is hosted each September somewhere in Minnesota. This three-day event brings HTM vendors, students, and hospital leadership together under one roof. We offer seminars, meals and outings such as (karaoke and golf). It’s a great opportunity to bond and network with people in the HTM industry,” Walker says. He says that toward the end of the conference, the association offers a vendor show that allows everyone to get a look at new equipment and to meet local and national vendors. “This conference is a great venue to network, learn and engage,” Walker adds. He says that the 2021 event was “a bit smaller than in the past” since so many hospitals are still battling COVID-19 concerns. “We had great keynote speakers,
excellent meals, and outings such as golf and karaoke. Seminars typically included Joint Commission changes, AAMI (Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation), tips on interviewing for hospitals, and vendor-related training. We also held our business meeting where we elected new officers such as vice president, treasurer, secretary, etcetera,” Walker says. He says for 2022, the group will be moving to Southeast Minnesota for its conference. “Treasure Island Casino is on tap for late September (keep your calendar open). We want to keep building this organization to its full potential,” Walker says. As mentioned earlier, the focus of NCBA has been a central focus of many HTM associations; to find new biomeds to replace the departure of retiring baby-boom-aged biomeds. “So, this is really an all-hands-on-deck multifaceted approach at this point. Most hospitals are struggling to find enough
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trained employees to hire. The approaches to this are many,” Walker says. He says that some hospitals are offering to pay current employees to change careers if they meet a certain skill set. Also, some hospitals are working with on-the-job training to get people into the field “Others are trying to get kids right out of high school to mentor into roles. The NCBA will continue to have ongoing discussions with schools on how to grow their student rates. AAMI has an HTM in a box link that tries to get kids involved early (middle school, high school, college),” Walker says. During the cold winters in the central portion of the country, the rugged HTM professionals who brave the winters, have a unifying association to keep them educated, informed and their departments staffed. The NCBA only slowed down slightly during the pandemic as it helps bring more HTM professionals into the field in the years to come.
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20th ANNIVERSARY
20th ANNIVERSARY
MD EXPO CELEBRATES 20 YEARS Signature HTM Conference Dives Into Third Decade BY JOHN WALLACE
T
wenty years ago, MD Publishing Founder John Krieg decided to go for a swim workout. As the laps ticked by, inspiration struck. Before we examine the ripple effects, let’s look at the preparation that led up to Krieg’s dive into the medical device industry and, eventually, healthcare technology management (HTM).
STARTING BLOCKS The 1990s witnessed the fall of the Soviet Union, ending the decades-long Cold War, and the rise of the Internet. It was also the decade that a new trade magazine called Medical Dealer was first published. MD Publishing printed the first issue in 1996. Krieg, who had a newborn at home, was a one-man shop in the beginning. He sold ads, wrote articles and designed the pages while working from a desk within arm’s reach of a baby crib. His home office was in his first child’s nursery. The magazine enjoyed early success as readership grew. It was a magazine about medical device sales, service and repairs. The advertisements in the magazine told readers about the companies that could help them provide quality patient care via the latest devices. It shared how to service the vital equipment hospitals used daily. DEEP DIVE Krieg’s swim workout six years later in
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June of 2002 provided a moment of clarity. He was in “the zone” as a thought began to swim around in his mind. “How can I bring the readers of Medical Dealer together with its advertisers?” Krieg asked himself. The answer was a trade show. Not just any trade show, but the first-ever MD Expo (which its inaugural year was called the Medical Dealer Expo) was held in October of 2002 with education offered
“I think that it has been accepted as THE place to be” - Manny Roman by DITEC. MD Publishing did not dip its toe into the water. Krieg and company dove in headfirst making a splash heard and felt throughout the industry. SPRINGBOARD As the expo and magazine grew, they fed off each other spring boarding both to new heights. MD Publishing grew and continues to grow to this day. The magazine lineup now includes three monthly magazines — TechNation, OR Today, Imaging Community Exchange (ICE) — as well as websites, webinars, the HTM Jobs career site and sister-company, MedWrench. MD Expo is now held twice a year
with a conference each spring and fall. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the U.S. the company shifted gears and held regional HTM Mixers that were smaller and safer than large gatherings. MD Expo now includes additional features including a leadership summit, reverse expo and launched its Young Professionals at MD Expo (aka YP@MD) in 2019. THE EARLY YEARS DITEC founder and longtime MD Expo supporter Manny Roman recalls the early conferences were held in the Atlanta area, including the very first conference held at Callaway Resort & Gardens in Pine Mountain, Georgia. Roman and Krieg first met at a North Carolina Biomedical Association conference. When Krieg decided to launch the inaugural MD Expo, he contacted Roman to see if DITEC could help coordinate educational sessions. “There really was a need for somebody to put something together that encompassed the whole industry and John was in a position to do that,” Roman recalled. “We tried to help any way we could. We initially started helping with putting together the presenters. I think it was two or three years down the line and MD Publishing was ready to take on that task on their own. They had established enough relationships with the whole industry that they were ready to make it what it is today.”
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The Georgia Biomedical and Instrumentation Society (GBIS) also played a role in MD Expo’s origins. GBIS Executive Director Horace Hunter and Board of Trustee member Mike O’Rear recalled their first interactions with MD Expo. Hunter said that GBIS supported MD Expo very early on in connection with its annual conference. O’Rear taught a CBET Review class at one of the first MD Expos. He talked about how MD Expo has changed over the years and said he encourages HTM professionals to attend. “It is a place where you have a chance to meet other people in the field, expand your base, and also you get to look at some new medical devices and innovations,” O’Rear said. “It’s always been a very good conference for me. I always learn a lot and meet people.” Dave Scott, CBET, works in Colorado and is a key member of CABMET. He almost had to pull out a calculator when asked about MD Expo. “I was trying to add these up. I’ve been to every MD Expo from 2015 to present plus a few more,” Scott said. “I think it’s 19 total. This one coming up in Atlanta will be 20 for me! Not counting HTM Mixers.” BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS Maull Biomedical Training LLC President Steve Maull said the MD Expo is a “can’t miss!” event. “The educational opportunities and the networking are top notch. Other shows also have training and networking, but the folks that put on MD Expo twice a year do a remarkable job of making the social aspect of the show top notch; the contacts and personal relationships you create here
A. Ray Dalton representing PartSource
John Krieg President/CEO are the most valuable part of the MD Expo,” Maull explained. When asked how MD Expo has changed since the early years, Roman said the conference has grown to be one of the largest for HTM professionals. “I don’t know that the focus has changed. I think the focus has always been to provide an opportunity for people – industry professionals and suppliers – that work with products and services to get together and establish relationships which is the main focus,” Roman said. “We are in a relationship business, whether people realize it or not, and the main focus is to help people establish relationships that enhance the industry and in their businesses. I think that has always been the goal. At MD Expo there is a lot more participation, a lot more varied venues where people get the opportunity to attend as if it were regional but it’s national. I think that it has been accepted as THE place to be and one thing that’s always been part of it is that with the education and with the whole package comes the ability to actually get together and have some fun.” Steve Kelley, regional director of biomedical engineering at Piedmont Healthcare, said every MD Expo he has attended was a home run. “They have all been fantastic. The thing I like about MD Expo’s training sessions is they are more focused for me … most of the ones at MD Expo are real life guys who have been through it and are sharing good information,” Kelley said. Scott, who has taught a CBET review class at previous MD Expos, said he and his wife usually arrive early or stay late and
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turn the trip into a mini vacation. It is fitting considering he described MD Expo as “fun mixed with learning and networking.” “I don’t know if it’s a goal of the MD Expo staff for everyone to have fun, but I always do! It’s something I look forward to and I feel it energizes me for my job when I get back to work,” Scott said. “Sharing what I learned with others I work with and passing out all the goodies I gather from the trade show. It’s refreshing to meet so many people that are as excited about biomed as I am. I like listening to others and hearing them share their stories and experiences.” The InterMed Group CEO and Founder Rick Staab also shared MD Expo memories and what the biannual conference means to the HTM field. “There’s always an element where you get to mingle with other people in the industry, we always call it “coopertition” (combination of cooperation and competition) because we try to work with the same
“It is a place where you have a chance to meet other people in the field, expand your base, and also you get to look at some new medical devices and innovations” - Mike O’Rear people who we are competing with,” Staab said. “John did a remarkably good job. It (the first MD Expo) was like a time to go have fun with the people you knew in the industry that you could also do business with, but unlike some other conferences – that are all about business – there’s got to be a fun element to what you do as well. I think that’s what MD Expo has really done is made it fun for everybody to be involved in this business.” “Everybody always says, ‘Work hard, play hard’ and MD Expo is a time where you could do both. You have to get business done in face-to-face meetings with these people, but it’s in a relaxed atmosphere. It’s like a weekend or a week of playing golf with your potential customers
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LONGTIME SUPPORTER AIV or clients – your coopertition,” he added. MD Expo brings people together and creates relationships. The conference features specifically designed social events to help people network and expand their professional network. These events are often praised, but more than one longtime attendee said multi-million dollar deals also happen by chance when two individuals from the industry bump into each other in the hotel’s fitness center, bar or one of the common areas. “Just being there was where business got done because you would be sitting at the bar or something and it was a way to make the connectivity happen,” Staab said. “Otherwise, how are you ever going to find out about that person or their needs if you’re not there face-to-face with them? Sometimes it just happens when you’re not trying to make it happen so hard.” Kelley agreed. “There is nothing stuffy about MD Expo. It is very open and very welcoming,” he said. “It is designed to be entertainment as well as learning and a chance to have camaraderie. They do a really good job of creating opportunities to connect with others and enjoy yourself.”
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BUSINESS BOOST Southeastern Biomedical’s Greg Johnson shared how MD Expo helps businesses. “It has been tremendous. It has provided us such a great opportunity to network with our industry. I think this became really obvious during the last MD Expo in Las Vegas,” Johnson explained. “Since COVID started, attendance at
“Everybody always says, ‘Work hard, play hard’ and MD Expo is a time where you could do both.” - Rick Stabb recent MD Expos and state shows have been off. And, of course, AAMI has canceled the last two meetings. From my perspective, this last MD Expo in Vegas really seemed like old times and was almost back to normal.” “Being able to see so many of our customers and business associates at one time in the same place is really a good
thing. This is probably the best aspect of attending,” Johnson added. When asked how MD Expo has helped Southeastern Biomedical grow, Johnson said, “I have left every Expo feeling like it was a very good use of my time and travel expense to attend.” Johnson added, “The MD Expo provides world-class education to the biomedical/HTM industry and also enables attendees and vendors the opportunity to network all in one place at the same time.” Maull is not sure where his business would be without MD Expo. “To be honest, it has truly enhanced how much I love doing what I do for a living. It’s given me the opportunity to meet and, in many cases, become friends with a great number of people that I do business with in this industry. The MD Expos give us a place to meet face to face, have a drink or go out to dinner and truly become friends with many people in the industry that would otherwise just be faceless names we know of only through email,” Maull said. “Many of the people I have gotten to know through the MD Expos I consider good friends; the personal connections we have made at the shows have truly enhanced our ability to do business in this
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industry. The great Manny Roman always said, ‘People like doing business with people they like doing business with.’” When asked to estimate what it has brought to his company, Maull said, “That is almost impossible to answer because it is cumulative. I went to the very first MD Expo way back and over the years I think I’ve only missed three or four. In any one year it may generate $20K to $40K, but then the next year we will still be getting business from those contacts we made last year, but then we will get new business from the shows this year. And then the next year we build upon that even more, and so on, and so on. I hate to miss a show because it feels like I’ve disrupted the flow to new business.” MEMORIES Johnson is one of many who counts the “hurricane party” among his favorite MD Expo memories. “One of the most memorable to me was the year we had the hurricane come through at Stone Mountain. I remember the power being out and the hotel had put glow sticks out on the floors to provide light in the hallways,” Johnson explained. “I also remember having the hurricane party in a large tent outside of the hotel. I remember looking up at the very center of the ceiling in the tent and seeing a chandelier swinging back and forth due to
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the wind. I stayed away from underneath it because I just knew it was going to come crashing down at any time.” He found some humor in the situation. “I remember laughing (and still do from time to time) thinking about how the Atlanta news headlines were going to read about the so-called ‘educated idiots in the medical equipment industry’ being killed at a party in a temporary tent during the hurricane,” Johnson said. Looking back over two decades of MD Expo conferences is fun. The event has
For 20 years, MD Expo has been bringing HTM professionals together for professional development.
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grown and continues to shift as needed to serve the HTM community whether that be a new HTM Mixer, the addition of a reverse expo or something no one has thought of … yet. USOC Medical’s Amy Hobbs has too many found memories to pick a favorite. “I don’t think that I can have just one great memory because I have hundreds. Every time I go [to an MD Expo] a new one is created which make this show better every year. The staff and the memories they create have been priceless,” Hobbs said. Staab shared his thoughts on what MD Expo means to HTM. “It has made the journey enjoyable. It makes our industry seem like a big family. It’s perfect and nobody else does that,” Staab said. “To me, MD Expo is like a big think tank where you bring in the people from all these different institutions or companies and you allow them to put down their guards so they’re not working in silos. You can take the lessons learned and apply them to our industry and you can’t do that with these other groups. John and MD Expo are all for making our industry better.” See for yourself what MD Expo is all about. Registration is open online at MDExpoShow.com for the upcoming conference in Atlanta, Georgia April 11-13.
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HTMA-SC ANNOUNCES MAY 6 SYMPOSIUM
NEWS & NOTES Updates from the HTM Industry
HTMA-SC President Dan Paladino announced the date for the association’s 2022 symposium dates and more in a recent email. “I’m happy to make a few announcements for 2022,” the email reads. “First, save the date! The HTMA-SC will be having our annual symposium on May 6, 2022. We are working on an exciting agenda which will be released in detail as we get closer to the event.” “Secondly, we have a new venue for the symposium,” the email continues. “This year we will meet at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, 1101 Lincoln St, Columbia, SC 29201. (https://www.columbiaconventioncenter.com/). A second correspondence will be coming out with symposium registration details, but for now please make note of the new location.” The email also shared a few leadership updates.
TEST TECHNOLOGY ENSURES CRITICAL PERFORMANCE OF AEDS Advanced biomedical test technology is helping to ensure that essential lifesaving equipment is maintained in full working order so that it performs reliably during those vital emergency situations in which it is needed. The specialist biomed engineering team at Deaconess Midtown Hospital in Evansville, Indiana is using a Rigel UniPulse 400 defibrillator analyzer for the planned maintenance and troubleshooting testing of the 55 defibrillators located around its facilities. The UniPulse 400 is specifically designed to comprehensively test all defibrillators accurately and efficiently. The lightweight, battery-powered and portable unit is capable of analyzing all monophasic, biphasic, standard and pulsating waveforms and is also equipped with a special pacer function for comprehensive testing of defibrillator functionality. In previous years both the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Department of Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in the UK have highlighted the importance of the lifesaving treatment provided by automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) and the need to ensure against unexpected component failure or other technical problems that might affect their reliability. Midtown Hospital Biomed Team Lead Brian Pierce recognizes the essential role that AEDs play and the critical need for them to perform efficiently and accurately when needed. “We never know how often or when a defibrillator will be needed, so it is very important that when they are required, they function properly,” Pierce said. “In this respect, the UniPulse 400 has all the common features needed to perform full preventative maintenance on a defibrillator. As well as being lightweight and easily carried around the hospital by our technicians, the crisp color display and simplicity of use means new staff members can quickly learn how to use it. An analyzer is no good to us if we cannot rely on its proper operation and accuracy. I feel the UniPulse 400 is very durable and enables us
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“Third, we have two leadership changes and a new addition to the 2022 HTMA-SC Board,” it reads. The leadership updates include: • President – Dan Paladino • Vice President – Shawn Lease • Board Member – Aaron Brengelman Returning board members include Treasurer Mary Coker, Secretary Howard Scarver, Andrew Stiles, Nathan Tucker, Scott Keker, Ed Desmond, Steven Helms, Joe Howe, Paul Mundy and Mark Warren. The email concluded by reminding members that Corporate Membership renewal will begin May 1 of each year and will be tied to the symposium. Existing Corporate Members will remain current until then. “We’d like to thank each of you for your support, and we’re looking forward to seeing everyone in May!” Paladino said.
WHAT MONTH ARE YOUR INFUSION DEVICE PM’S DUE? to carry out important testing with confidence.” The Rigel UniPulse 400 incorporates advanced measurement technology, including dedicated fast keys and automatic programs to enable biomed test engineers to select the relevant test function in seconds. The large internal memory and on-board results storage also helps to reduce test time and helps hospital teams work toward automated database record keeping systems. The UniPulse 400 forms part of the comprehensive Rigel Medical range of biomedical testing solutions for health care environments. As well as the UniPulse400, other Rigel equipment used by the biomed team at the Deaconess Midtown Hospital includes a Uni-Therm electrosurgical analyzer and SafeTest 50 and 288 electromedical equipment safety analyzers. For more information, visit rigelmedical.com.
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IBS CONFERENCE MOVED TO MAY The Indiana Biomedical Society Board recently issued an email announcing that the 2022 Indiana Biomedical Society Conference has been postponed. It is now scheduled to be held on Saturday, May 14, 2022. “After carefully considering the impact of the recent surge in the COVID-19 pandemic, the Indiana Biomedical Society has made the difficult decision to delay our annual conference, which was to be held on January 22, 2022 at the Sheraton Indianapolis City Centre Hotel. This decision was not easy to make, but our top priority is to protect the health and safety of our community,” the email states. “In partnership with the Sheraton Hotel, we have secured our new conference date of Saturday, May 14,
2022. Although we were looking forward to seeing everyone again in just a few weeks and share in your disappointment, we are excited for all the possibilities that having our conference in May brings,” the email adds. The email ends by saying, “We hope that you and your family remain safe throughout this health crisis, and we thank you for your continued support of the Indiana Biomedical Society. Look for more information to come over the next couple of weeks regarding our new conference date!”
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For more information, visit indianabiomedical.wildapricot.org.
SODEXO HEALTHCARE ANNOUNCES NEW CHIEF OF CLIENT RETENTION & STRATEGY Sodexo has announced the appointment of David Gillan as the new chief of client retention and strategy for Sodexo U.S. Healthcare. Gillan enters the role having previously served as group senior vice president for Vizient, where he led its non-acute focused business enterprise as well as its supplier management function. “Gillan’s leadership in the U.S. health care industry and his unique perspective will empower Sodexo’s strategic growth in the United States and ensure we provide an optimal experience for our clients as well as their staff and patients,” said Stuart Winters, Sodexo’s Healthcare CEO in the U.S.
The health care industry is transforming rapidly. With Gillan’s strategic direction, Sodexo will continue to develop new solutions to support patients across the continuum of care, leading to better patient outcomes, reduced costs and higher operational efficiency, according to a news release. “Gillan will be indispensable to Sodexo’s strategic direction, ensuring we provide the most connected, human-centered community of care givers and specialists, all focused around one mission — unlocking solutions to create a better care experience for each individual no matter where they are in their care journey,” the release added. For more infromation, visit us.sodexo.com.
MEDICAL IMAGING SOLUTIONS ANNOUNCES ACQUISITION, EXPANSION Medical Imaging Solutions, a provider of imaging services in the U.S., has agreed to acquire CER Technology, a national provider of healthcare technology management solutions. Upon closing the transaction, the combined company will offer comprehensive imaging, healthcare technology management (HTM) and information technology solutions servicing all regions of the U.S. The combined company will include three regional business centers in Woodstock, Georgia; Henderson, Nevada; and San Antonio, Texas. “Bringing together the capabilities of both organizations will add tremendous value to our customers,” said Arnold Bates, president and CEO of MIS. “The acquisition of CER Technology will contribute 20 years of successful HTM-specific experience with MIS’s established reputation as a formidable imaging solutions company. We will be able to offer our customers profound value, unlike any other imaging
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or HTM services solutions company – we have been preparing for this launch for a year and are excited to get started.” The merger includes CER Technologies’ expanded clinical technology service capacity integrating information technology, information systems and cybersecurity into a comprehensive HTM solutions approach. “Any company can provide the basic functions of IT; what sets us apart from others is our unique ability to mitigate problems before they occur,” said Bill Bassuk, president and CEO of CER Technology. “From an HTM perspective, 70% of all IT problems are related to business process issues. Our business-first approach is forward-thinking and emphasizes risk mitigation. We aim to help our customers utilize technology efficiently, identifying problems before they arise and in a manner that creates stable and predictable outcomes.” For more information, visit medicalimaginggroup.com.
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RESEARCH: CRITICAL MEDICAL DEVICE RISKS THREATEN HOSPITAL SECURITY, PATIENT SAFETY After a year of unprecedented ransomware attacks on hospitals and health care systems – and with health care now the #1 target for cybercriminals – critical medical device risks in hospital environments continue to leave hospitals and their patients vulnerable to cyberattacks and data security issues. In its 2022 State of Healthcare IoT Device Security Report, Cynerio found that security threats related to IoT and related devices within health care environments have remained sorely under-addressed, despite increased investments in health care cybersecurity. Data shows that 53% of connected medical devices and other IoT devices in hospitals have a known critical vulnerability. Additionally, a third of bedside health care IoT devices – which patients most depend on for optimal health outcomes – have an identified critical risk. If attacked, these vulnerabilities could impact service availability, data confidentiality or patient safety – with potentially life-threatening consequences for patient care. Additional report findings include: • IV pumps are the most common health care IoT device and possess a lion’s share of risk: IV pumps make up 38% of a hospital’s typical health care IoT footprint and 73% of those have a vulnerability that could jeopardize patient safety, data confidentiality or service availability if exploited by an adversary. • Healthcare IoT running outdated Windows versions dominate devices in critical care sectors: Devices running versions older than Windows 10 account for the majority of devices used by pharmacology, oncology and laboratory devices, and make up a plurality of devices used by radiology, neurology and surgery departments, leaving patients connected to these devices vulnerable. • Default passwords remain a common risk: The most common IoMT and IoT device risks are connected to default passwords and settings that attackers can often obtain easily from manuals posted online, with 21% of devices secured by weak or default credentials. • Network segmentation can reduce critical IoMT and IoT risk: Network segmentation can address over 90 percent of the critical risks presented by connected medical devices in hospitals and is the most effective way to mitigate most risks presented by connected devices. “Health care is a top target for cyberattacks, and even with continued investments in cybersecurity, critical vulnerabilities remain in many of the medical devices hospitals rely on for patient care,” said Daniel Brodie, CTO and co-founder, Cynerio. “Visibility and risk identification are no longer enough. Hospitals and health systems don’t need more data – they need advanced solutions that mitigate risks and empower them to fight back against cyberattacks, and as medical device security providers it’s time for all of us to step up. With the first ransomware-related fatalities reported last year, it could mean life or death.”
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RENOVO SOLUTIONS RECEIVES GROWTH INVESTMENT, ADDS NEW CEO Renovo Solutions has received a growth investment from strategic health care investor Water Street Healthcare Partners. “One of the only national providers focused exclusively on managing health care and life sciences equipment and technology, Renovo will collaborate with Water Street to expand its unique offering,” a news release states. “The company also announced that it has recruited Bill Newell, a longtime executive who has served in leadership positions with Cardinal Health, Baxter and Dentsply Sirona, to join its leadership team as chief executive officer.” Renovo Co-founder Sandy Morford said he is excited about Renovo’s future. “I’m very excited about the steps we’re taking to advance Renovo and our one-of-akind offering. My colleagues, Haresh Satiani, Joe Happ, Don Carson and I founded this company with a clear mission: to reinvent the concept of medical and life sciences equipment management,” Morford said. “We have accomplished this and so much more. Bill and the Water Street team are the ideal partners to help us build on our strong foundation, expand our innovative customer solutions and take Renovo to the next level.” Already growing at a double-digit pace, Renovo plans to leverage Water Street’s investment, health care expertise and network of resources to: • Expand its offering dedicated to supporting health care and life sciences organizations with managing their clinical and research and development equipment • Enhance the company’s proprietary computerized
management system that provides data and cost transparency to help customers manage their equipment assets • Extend its national footprint currently reaching 37+ states into additional U.S. markets and key international markets • Grow its customer base, currently comprised of 300+ hospitals, integrated health systems and biopharmaceutical organizations To spearhead the company’s expansion, Renovo and Water Street partnered to recruit Newell to serve as CEO. An experienced health care leader, Newell has a strong track record of growing global businesses and building high-performance teams. “I am very proud to work with Sandy, Renovo’s co-founders and the entire team to advance the company’s mission,” Newell said. “Renovo’s people, innovative technology solutions and commitment to going above and beyond on behalf of its customers are unmatched. Working together, we will invest to expand and enhance Renovo’s capabilities to address the full spectrum of customers’ constantly changing needs in managing their technology assets.” Newell will join Morford on Renovo’s board of directors. In addition, Morford will dedicate his time to working with Renovo’s national network of customers, serving as chief commercial officer. Joe Happ and Haresh Satiani will continue to serve in their leadership roles. For more information, visit renovo1.com
INTRAPRISE HEALTH HIRES NEW CEO Intraprise Health has announced that George Pappas has joined the company as chief executive officer. The company also announced a strategic growth investment from Health Enterprise Partners and Bluff Point Associates – two private equity firms that invest in health care companies. Pappas, a healthcare technology veteran, most recently served as chief customer officer and chief operating officer at DrFirst, a medication management company. Prior to his time at DrFirst, Pappas served as chief operating officer of Motionsoft, a fitness industry software company. “I’m thrilled to be joining Intraprise Health as it continues its
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upward growth in the health care risk management arena,” Pappas said. “The company’s deep roots in health care security services make their integrated risk management software compelling for organizations that struggle with the cost and effort needed to safeguard their operations from cyber-attacks. I am excited about our wide-reaching security solutions portfolio and the investment from both HEP and Bluff Point which will help lay the foundation for continued growth and innovation.” Pappas is active in CHIME and is a member of their CFCHE program. He holds a patent in sales risk management and is a graduate of Boston University.
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INNOVATUS IMAGING LAUNCHES TEE PROBE MAINTENANCE PROGRAM Trans-esophageal echocardiology, or TEE probes, used to create images of the heart via the esophagus, are among the most costly ultrasound devices imaging departments nationwide purchase in order to properly diagnose cardiac conditions. Each of these highly specialized probes cost $30,000 to $50,000 new from the original equipment manufacturer, making it hard for imaging departments to lower costs to patients and insurance companies. In some facilities, these probes can experience catastrophic failures every few months which further impacts costs for both facilities and patients. “SafeTEE, a preventive maintenance program offered by Innovatus Imaging is designed to help imaging departments offset the costs of owning and operating TEE probes, and ultimately pass on savings to patients. This new and one-of-a-kind program delivers timely preventive maintenance services and assessments to identify issues that could lead to catastrophic failures before irreversible damage occurs,” a news release states. “Exclusive to Innovatus Imaging, SafeTEE has been built around nearly 40 years of data from proprietary research to identify failure rates across makes and models, timelines for replacing parts before they start to fail, and best practices for sustainable repairs that extend the life of each device.” After repairing more than 40,000 TEE probes, Innovatus Imaging has extensive knowledge and proven processes for identifying points of wear, modes of failure, and model-specific characteristics and timelines in which
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anticipated damage most often occurs, the release adds. Data collected suggests that TEE probes have an annual failure rate of 65% to 100%. This translates to a catastrophic failure on each TEE probe every 12 to 18 months. Actual failure rates are dependent upon the practices in-place and the level of care and handling occurring at each facility. By addressing items of wear through preventive maintenance, TEE probe life cycles may potentially be extended, the release states. This proprietary program is available to all facilities and will be priced according to TEE probe inventory and estimated service volume for each client, the release states. Veteran ultrasound probe experts currently leading this program at Innovatus Imaging are Matt Tomory and Ted Lucidi. “Innovatus Imaging is not just in the business of restoring ultrasound probes and MRI coils, we are in the business of lowering health care costs for imaging departments and ultimately patients,” said Tomory. “Our ultimate goal is to improve access to critical diagnostic services by assuring the required devices are operating as intended, and at costs that are reasonable.” In addition to services provided under the SafeTEE program, Innovatus Imaging will provide educational webinars to facility staff employees, and process analysis reviews for individual imaging departments. For more information about SafeTEE, visit innovatusimaging.com/SafeTEE.
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NEW SENIOR EXECUTIVE TO DRIVE SEAWARD GROWTH Electrical test and measurement company Seaward Electronic has appointed a new vice president and chief operating officer to lead the expansion and growth of its U.S. operations. Sean Daley takes up the role after building a successful career working with businesses across the U.S. including a recent role as an international regional sales manager for an emergency power system manufacturer and supplier. A business management and marketing graduate from Lindenwood University in St. Louis, he brings considerable industry experience and expertise in lighting, surge protection and electrical products to the role. He has worked on both the manufacturing and distribution side of business as well as taking on commercial development, technical and sales management tasks and responsibilities in an extensive and varied career. In joining Seaward Group USA, Daley will be leading a team from the company’s Tampa Bay, Florida head office at a time when there are major opportunities to develop current and new markets across the country on the back of sector leading products, new launches and technical innovation. “Seaward’s history, reputation and leadership were major attractions to me and I’m excited to be working alongside people who share my vision for quality, customer service and innovation,” he said. “This is an exciting time for the business and the opportunities to develop it further are huge – our future is bright and Seaward’s reputation for technical innovation will be a
TECHNICAL PROSPECTS ANNOUNCES BIOMED TO IMAGING ACADEMY continuing part of our success. Together with creating products customers want, we will secure our position as a trusted industry adviser by becoming the gold standard for technical support and customer service.” Seaward is part of Metrawatt’s GMC Instrumentation Group, a collaboration of separate specialist test equipment manufacturing businesses based in Germany, Switzerland and the USA. Chris Callan, CEO at Seaward, said: “We would like to welcome Sean to Seaward and are very much looking forward to working with him. We believe that strengthening the U.S. management team with this new appointment provides the basis for continued growth for Seaward and benefit of our international customer base.”
MEDIPINES PLANS AGM100 GAS EXCHANGE DEVICE DISTRIBUTION Orange County, California-based MediPines Corporation has announced national distribution throughout the United States for its unique AGM100 device, the world’s first FDA-cleared, non-invasive pulmonary gas exchange analyzer system. Designated by the World Health Organization (WHO) as one of 15 notably innovative health technologies for the treatment of COVID-19 and other global priority diseases in its 2021 edition of the WHO Compendium of Innovative Health Technologies, the AGM100 is currently being used at hospitals, medical rehabilitation centers and outpatient pulmonary clinics around the United States. To meet growing demand, MediPines is making new units available nationwide. Rather than having to rely on surrogate measures for gas exchange, physicians using the AGM100 can directly measure patients’ pulmonary status at the bedside. The AGM100 is a medical device that rapidly detects respiratory impairment caused by conditions such as COVID-19, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, ARDS, pulmonary edema or embolism, etc. This gas exchange measurement is performed non-invasively from a two-minute patient breath-
ing sample method at the bedside, respiratory results are available instantly on the screen as the patient is breathing naturally through a specialized mouthpiece connected to the analyzer system, similar to a “breathalyzer” test. The AGM100 is a portable system that can be used at emergency room to respiratory to surgical departments throughout the hospitals or any qualified health clinics. With MediPines’ advanced, proprietary technology, clinicians can observe in real time how efficiently oxygen is being transported from outside air to their patients’ alveoli, where lung’s gas exchange takes place and to their circulating blood, without a single needlestick or blood draw; a crucial step forward in respiratory assessment and monitoring during the COVID pandemic. Once a patient breathes normally through a specialized breathing circuit, the AGM100 quickly calculates and provides a comprehensive panel of respiratory measurements including blood oxygen levels, oxygen deficit (aka A-a gradient), P/F ratio, and alveolar oxygen and carbon dioxide levels. So, a full view of the patient’s respiratory status is achieved instantly.
Technical Prospects, a leader in the medical imaging industry, has announced the launch of its BioMed to Imaging Academy as a new addition to its existing imaging service training programs: Integrated Training and Custom/Corporate Training. Development of the curriculum comes in response to industry demand for training specifically focused on biomedical technicians (biomeds) who are ready to take the next step into servicing medical imaging equipment. “In light of the ongoing shortage of qualified imaging engineers and the ever-evolving needs of the medical imaging industry, we knew we needed to develop a program that provides more than what traditional training can offer,” said Sam Darweesh, chairman of engineering and vice president of operations at Technical Prospects. Unique in its mentor-led approach, this two-year instructional program is designed to build confidence in novice engineers through one-on-one, dedicated training from industry-leading experts. Ongoing guidance is also provided by mentors who are carefully paired with students based on their specific learning needs and personality profiles, ensuring optimal retention of the subject matter and improved on-thejob performance. More importantly, for the next year, students gain readily available support and access to instructors and staff who bring decades of combined experience to the program, having worked on some of the most advanced
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imaging systems in the world. In order to better accommodate the needs of aspiring imaging engineers from around the country, the BioMed to Imaging Academy combines the flexibility of online virtual classroom instruction – through Technical Prospects’ exclusive Interactive Virtual Training Academy (IVTA) – with the confidence-building benefits of in-person training on state-of-the-art equipment at their Appleton, Wisconsin facility. Additional workshops and on-the-job training are scheduled throughout the coming year to round out the curriculum. “This training program offers advantages in flexibility, confidence, and certainty for students and health care providers alike, in that they can be assured they will get the most from the training and be able to service and maintain their medical imaging systems properly,” said Darweesh. As with all of Technical Prospects’ training programs, the BioMed to Imaging Academy courses were developed to meet the rigorous guidelines of the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI), which include proper instructor licensing and training, maintaining high-quality presentation skills, upholding an appropriate class format, utilizing a tailored approach and customer focus and more. For more information, visit https://www.technicalprospects.com/ resources/blog/press_releases/technical-prospects-announces-biomed-to-imaging-academy/.
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RIBBON CUTTING Arkmeds BY STAFF REPORT
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rkmeds is new to the HTM scene in the United States. The company believes that people’s lives in a hospital do not depend only on doctors. Healthcare technology management professionals are also essential.
Arkmeds has developed technological solutions for automating maintenance, calibration and the monitoring of medical and hospital equipment. The company has made a platform integrated with monitoring modules that helps to manage a team, equipment and processes in real time, with the main objective of helping professionals in the area to coordinate, in the best possible way, the hospital’s technology. For the clinical engineer/manager, the platform is an important ally, ensuring the management of devices and more. Arkmeds Group CEO Thiago Tiso shared more information about the company in a recent interview with TechNation magazine.
Q: WHAT ARE SOME OF THE SERVICES AND PRODUCTS YOU OFFER? IS THERE A SPECIFIC OR NEW ONE YOU ARE EXCITED ABOUT RIGHT NOW? A: We offer a complete solution for maintenance, calibration, training and data management for the medical equipment industry. We will be presenting the concept of the Arkmeds metaverse at MD Expo Atlanta. 34
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A fully virtual environment integrated with the Arkmeds solution.
Q: HOW DOES YOUR COMPANY STAND OUT IN THE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT FIELD? A: We use the pillars of Industry 4.0 to innovate in maintenance, data and asset management solutions in the hospital industry. We developed a solution integrating analysis equipment + CMMS + Augmented reality at the touch of a finger on a smartphone or tablet
Q: WHAT IS ON THE HORIZON FOR YOUR COMPANY? DO YOU HAVE ANY GOALS YOU WOULD LIKE TO ACHIEVE IN THE NEAR FUTURE? A: Our goal is to include the medical maintenance industry in the “technological fourth generation.”
Thiago Tiso, CEO of Arkmeds Group
Q: IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE OUR READERS TO KNOW? A: We will also be presenting traditional products at MD Expo. We manufacture six different types of biomedical analyzers, fully integrated into the Arkmeds CMMS. For more information, visit www.arkmeds.us or www.arkmeds.com.
Arkmeds Group Team • Mr. Thiago Tiso - CEO - Biomedical engineer with 25+ years of experience in the field of equipment technology and hospital medical products. • Mr. Thiago Bajur - Master Engineer – Mr. Bajur is a control and automation engineer. Studied Medical Systems Engineering at OVGU, Magdeburg Germany. • Mr. Júlio César Bragança da Matta Machado CFO - a Mechanical and Instrumentation Engineer, and also holds an MBA in Finance. • Ms. Erika Faria is Director of Operations. She holds a degree in Business Administration, specializing in Finance.
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AAMI UPDATE A World Safety Standard for Transcatheter Cardiac Occluders: Insights from AAMI Staff
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recently published standard is the first of its kind – in more ways than one. From the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), ISO 22679 is the first-ever international transcatheter cardiac occluder standard. One of more than 24,000 standards prepared by ISO, the new cardiac occluder standard is also the first such medical device standard to be based on a standard from China.
Director of Standards for the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) Cliff Bernier (recently retired) ran the ISO technical subcommittee for Cardiovascular Implants and Extracorporeal Systems (TC 150/SC 2) that developed the standard. “We were approached by the Chinese delegation, who already had a standard on cardiac occluders, and then wanted to bring it up to the ISO level and make it an international standard,” he explained. “They offered their document to TC 150/SC 2 … and were very involved.”
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Another first for the new standard? It was the first one convened by Dr. Bobak Mosadegh, associate professor of biomedical engineering in radiology at Weill Cornell Medicine’s Dalio Institute of Cardiovascular Imaging. “I think during the first meeting [I attended] my colleague Simon Dunham and I were asked if we would act as conveners for that meeting,” Mosadegh said. “I think because we were maybe the only academic professors there, we [appeared] very non-biased. And even though we felt like we knew nothing, we [joined] to learn … We very much acted like mediators and project managers, and it went very well. They eventually asked us to stay on, and I became the convener and Simon became the co-chair for the working group.” The most important first, of course, is the standard itself. While cardiac occluders have long been used, there has never been a formal standard for them in the Western world. “It was news to us that there was a standard and that there was a will to further develop it and make it international,” Bernier said.
Bernier explained that while there have been standards for numerous other cardiac devices – the cardiac valve standard, for example, was one of the earliest standards developed – cardiac occluders have never garnered much attention. The devices are incredibly simple, he noted, which may have been part of the reason for cardiac occluders not getting their own standard until now. However, between the Chinese standard being introduced and the FDA suggesting an occluder standard in the U.S., the time was right for ISO 22679. The process of developing the standard began in October 2017, when the project was officially proposed. Like many ISO standards, the proposal officially came from a country – in this case, China – though other standards have been proposed by device manufacturers, federal agencies or even the ISO’s secretariat. Often, Bernier noted, issues will be raised by an ISO working group, and then the secretariat will review the issue and, assuming it doesn’t raise any red flags as an attempt at a company to secure market domination, move it along to WWW.1TECHNATION.COM
an official ISO project. “The countries that have manufacturers that develop [medical devices] are usually more than happy to engage in standards work, so there hasn’t been a lot of contention,” Bernier said. “If there’s going to be a standard [countries and companies] want to be at the table to make sure nothing happens that’s going to compromise their product. There are always varying interests at the table … and they all bring their perspectives and requirements.” However, both Bernier and Mosadegh said the cardiac occluder standard went through a very smooth process. The Chinese standard, which formed the basis of the final standard, was translated and placed into the format of the ISO’s cardiac valve standard so it could be easily organized and drafted from its skeleton form. Once that happened, one of the biggest debates was about whether
there should be a clinical section of the standard. Luckily, said Mosadegh, a new member, Dr. Monica Tocchi, medical director of Meditrial, happened to be a physician, and she offered the answer the group needed. “She said, ‘Hey, you know what? You have to have a clinical section, and I’m going to go out and find a bunch of clinicians to come in and be part of a sub working group within this working group,’ and she did,” he explained. “Within a matter of days, we had a list of five or six people who, through both Zoom calls and in-person meetings, were able to generate the clinical section of the standard.” “It was a huge contribution that I think really made the standard well-rounded,” Mosadegh added. “It has really good guidance for medical device manufacturers, engineers and the clinicians.” With all the pieces in place, the standard as now published covers all
the necessary practitioners who are involved in the design, development and use of cardiac occluders. As Mosadegh explained, “This standard emphasizes risk management for all steps of producing a cardiac occluder, including all three stages of in vitro, preclinical, and clinical testing, and packaging, labelling, and sterilization. Furthermore, comprehensive informative annex sections are provided for topics such as hazard analysis, specific testing methods, pediatric devices, imaging protocols, delivery system evaluations and training.” Mosadegh and Bernier consider the final publication of the document a huge success. “It’s a big sense of accomplishment,” Bernier said. “It’s a good product, a good standard and the world is safer for it. That’s a good feeling.” The new standard can be found in full at iso.org.
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ECRI UPDATE A Look at the Top 10 Health Technology Hazards for 2022
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roviding high-quality patient care requires identifying possible sources of danger or difficulty with health technologies and taking proactive steps to reduce the risk of harm. ECRI produces its annual list of the Top 10 Health Technology Hazards to help in this effort, The report highlights technology management challenges that warrant high-priority attention and provides detailed recommendations for action.
THE CHALLENGE REMAINS Challenges associated with the COVID-19 public health emergency continue to dominate the health care landscape – a fact that is reflected in the 15th edition of ECRI’s Top 10 Health Technology Hazards list. ECRI’s 2022 report includes several topics that expand on the key theme from last year: the need to progress from crisis mode during the COVID-19 pandemic to building stronger and more resilient processes, leveraging the lessons learned along the way. Other topics on the list address emerging challenges, under-the-radar issues and persistent hazards that require renewed attention. 10 HIGH-PRIORITY HAZARDS ECRI identified the following topics as warranting high-priority attention in 2022.
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1. CYBERSECURITY ATTACKS CAN DISRUPT HEALTH CARE DELIVERY, IMPACTING PATIENT SAFETY This year’s No. 1 topic addresses what has become a persistent and critical challenge: the need to safeguard health care operations against near-certain cybersecurity attacks. For health care organizations, cybersecurity incidents can do more than just disrupt business operations – they can disrupt patient care, and thus pose a real threat of physical harm. Network-connected medical devices and data systems play an essential role in delivering safe and effective patient care. A cybersecurity incident that compromises those devices or systems could lead to the rescheduling of appointments and surgeries, the diversion of emergency vehicles, or the closure of care units or even whole organizations – all of which could put patients at risk. Cybersecurity incidents have become inevitable, but many can be thwarted or their effects can be minimized if appropriate measures are implemented before an incident, or in response to one. The bottom line? It’s not enough to defend against attacks. Organizations need a plan for maintaining patient care when an incident occurs.
2. SUPPLY CHAIN SHORTFALLS POSE RISKS TO PATIENT CARE The COVID-19 pandemic created a “perfect storm” for medical device supply chains: a crisis of international scale, with multiple product lines suddenly being in high demand, supported by insufficient supply chains designed around lean inventory models. Health care supply chains were vulnerable well before the pandemic. But the COVID-19 crisis forced them to the breaking point, leading to the unavailability of products that were needed to treat patients and protect staff. Looking to the future, strategies can be implemented to prevent product shortages and to maintain patient care when traditional supplies become scarce. 3. DAMAGED INFUSION PUMPS CAN CAUSE MEDICATION ERRORS ECRI continues to receive reports of damaged infusion pumps being used during patient care, a situation that can lead to dangerous medication administration errors. Pump damage can be hard to identify; it may not be visibly apparent or may not trigger an alarm. Too often, this leads to the use of a pump that should have been removed from service. Staff need to be alert to signs of infusion pump
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4. INADEQUATE EMERGENCY STOCKPILES COULD DISRUPT PATIENT CARE DURING A PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY An emergency stockpile helps organizations continue operations when normal equipment inventories or supplies become depleted or when supply chains become disrupted. But if the stockpile is insufficient to meet the needs of the community, health care organizations may be unable to care for the sick and the injured, or to protect their staff. Organizations should work toward the development – and, importantly, the ongoing management – of an emergency stockpile that can better meet future needs. 5. TELEHEALTH WORKFLOW AND HUMAN FACTORS SHORTCOMINGS CAN CAUSE POOR OUTCOMES Telehealth programs proved their value in recent years, allowing the continued delivery of care at a time when in-person visits weren’t always possible. However, some care providers are now feeling the strain of using telehealth programs that were rapidly implemented during a crisis, without time for full consideration of workflow and human factors. Poor outcomes – both for patients and providers – can result if such factors are not addressed. 6. FAILURE TO ADHERE TO SYRINGE PUMP BEST PRACTICES CAN LEAD TO DANGEROUS MEDICATION DELIVERY ERRORS Syringe pumps provide highly accurate fluid delivery and consistent flow for small volumes (≤60 mL) of pharmacologic agents. However, misconceptions persist about the practices required to accurately deliver low flows within the
confines of the technology’s limitations. Because these pumps are often used in the treatment of critically ill children, infusion errors could have tragic consequences. 7. AI-BASED RECONSTRUCTION CAN DISTORT IMAGES, THREATENING DIAGNOSTIC OUTCOMES Artificial intelligence is replacing the standard algorithms used to reconstruct images from data obtained during an MRI, CT or other scan. AI can help optimize the quality and speed of reconstruction. But as with any early-stage technology, AI image reconstruction has potential instabilities and limitations. Providers need to be acutely aware of the technology’s limitations – and its applicability to their specific patient population – before implementing AI for imaging applications. 8. POOR DUODENOSCOPE REPROCESSING ERGONOMICS AND WORKFLOWS PUT HEALTH CARE WORKERS AND PATIENTS AT RISK The failure to adequately reprocess contaminated duodenoscopes between uses is a well-known hazard, one that has led to the spread of deadly pathogens. Perhaps less well known are the risks of injury to the health care workers who perform this function, and the ways in which ergonomic and workflow factors can compromise reprocessing effectiveness, putting patients at risk. An ECRI survey of health care workers has helped clarify these risks. 9. DISPOSABLE GOWNS WITH INSUFFICIENT BARRIER PROTECTION PUT WEARERS AT RISK Health care workers and others depend on medical gowns, along with other
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forms of personal protective equipment (PPE), to provide protection from SARS-CoV-2 and other pathogens. Selecting an appropriate gown for the intended application, however, is not simple: The nomenclature used by suppliers to designate gown types and protection levels is inconsistent, not all gowns are tested to appropriate standards, and manufacturing flaws that compromise protection are occasionally seen. 10. WI-FI DROPOUTS AND DEAD ZONES CAN LEAD TO PATIENT CARE DELAYS, INJURIES AND DEATHS Wi-Fi functionality has become essential for transmitting clinical alarms to a nurse’s phone, for accessing the electronic health record (EHR), and for updating infusion pump drug libraries, to name a few workflow and patient safety benefits. But realizing such benefits requires reliable connectivity – and consistently achieving that level of connectivity throughout a facility can be a challenge. What’s more, failing to achieve it can create new avenues for harm, particularly if wirelessly connected devices lose communications at a critical moment.
To Learn More This article is adapted from ECRI’s Top 10 Health Technology Hazards for 2022. An Executive Brief version of that report is available for complimentary download at www.ecri. org/2022hazards. The full report, accessible to ECRI members, provides detailed steps that organizations can take to prevent adverse incidents. To learn more, contact ECRI at (610) 825-6000, ext. 5891, or by e-mail at clientservices@ecri.org.
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BIOMED 101 Gaining Organizational Buy-In for RTLS Asset Tracking BY JEANNE KRAIMER
I
n the daily fast-paced health care environment, clinical and biomedical staff often struggle to find equipment for patient care and preventive maintenance. Many health care leaders may believe this to be unavoidable and alternative solutions such as real-time locating systems (RTLS) to be too costly or too complex to implement. But when leaders from clinical and biomedical teams unite, they can form a powerful case for implementing RTLS asset tracking. The first step is understanding the far-reaching impacts that missing equipment has on a health system from a monetary and human perspective.
Providers have set out to quantify the components of operational waste related to missing equipment, including over-purchasing; asset write-offs; rental equipment costs; staff inefficiency and patient dissatisfaction. These financial and human components can form the basis of your justification for RTLS. While the largest impact on inefficiency relates to nursing time, first we’re going to focus on the financial aspects of waste, specifically write-offs, over-purchasing equipment, both as capital and operational expenses, as well as rental costs. The second largest driver of cost is lost asset write-offs, hitting a hospital’s bottom line. Whether the asset truly walked out the door or is simply hidden in the facility, equipment that can’t be
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inventoried requires financial write-offs, which quickly add up. We’ve seen numbers as high as $1.5 million annually for a 300-bed hospital.1 The finance department can help one understand how write-offs affect a facility. The next largest driver of cost is one that’s often cited when considering RTLS. Today, many hospitals compensate for missing equipment by simply purchasing more so it can be found when needed. When you can find equipment with RTLS, you can purchase less of it. You may think this only comes into play if you’re ready to replace your fleet of IV pumps. However, that cost can be annualized across your fleet of equipment to help visualize the overall financial picture. Another cost related to over-purchasing is one that may be flying under the radar in your hospital: the operational cost of replacing missing equipment. When approval is not needed to purchase a single asset below a certain value, equipment such as a missing bladder scanner can be re-purchased on nursing’s operational budget. These hidden purchases can add up to $100,000 annually.1 Team up with nursing to help quantify these costs. Finally, on the financial side, reduced equipment rentals can be a wild card cost impact, as they will be different for each hospital. This could be a minor or major contributor but should be factored in
when performing your financial analysis. With RTLS, your facility will likely purchase and rent less equipment, which is an obvious driver for implementing RTLS asset tracking. Now, let’s break down the human aspect of the analysis by talking about the value of time. While arguably a “soft value,” it is an important consideration. First, consider the time spent searching during preventative maintenance activities. In a recent TechNation webinar, biomeds told us they spend more than 10% of their time searching for equipment. You can calculate the value of that time for financial analysis, and you can also frame the discussion around how that time can be better spent. The same analysis, when applied to nursing time, can be one of the strongest arguments for adopting RTLS. Nurses across the country have told us they spend 10% of their time searching for equipment – that’s 208 hours per nurse per year. That can equate to over $5 million per year in non-value added wages for a 300-bed hospital.1 Beyond the dollar value of nursing time, the larger impact is on patients. Patient care and satisfaction suffer from time lost with nurses while they track down equipment. Decreased nursing time at the bedside and reduced access to care puts patient satisfaction scores and related reimbursements at risk.
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Given this reality, clinical leadership can be your greatest advocate for bringing RTLS asset tracking to your hospital. Nursing and other clinical leaders are focused on delivering the best patient experience as health systems shift to value-based care and a patient-centric care model. Nurses have seen the value in RTLS asset tracking to help support the clinical team. In fact, recent Midmark research indicates that clinical leaders are twice as likely as biomedical leaders to have interest in purchasing an RTLS. By involving your chief nursing officer and other clinical leaders as key stakeholders in your RTLS asset tracking initiative, you create a stronger proposal. MAKING THE BUSINESS CASE FOR RTLS ASSET TRACKING Midmark RTLS has completed this financial analysis for many hospitals and can do the same for yours. Our RTLS
Specialists help you examine cost drivers to create your business case and determine return on investment for your specific situation. There are many options for different locating technologies specific to your situation. Midmark RTLS can help your organization gain buy-in for asset tracking while providing the best solution to support your analysis. We have decades of asset tracking, staff locating and patient flow optimization experience. We’ve been rated by Gartner as a visionary RTLS provider, and KLAS Research consistently rates us as one of the top three vendors for RTLS. With our continued innovation to reduce RTLS cost of ownership, we’ve launched Midmark RTLS Cloud and a new Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) locating technology to help modernize hospital asset tracking capabilities. Knowing the importance of keeping
patient care units operational, the Midmark RTLS BLE sensors simply and easily plug into standard electrical outlets. This is another plus mark in the clinician’s column since they will not have to shut-down a care unit for hardware installation. By calculating the financial and human costs associated with asset inefficiencies and aligning with your clinical colleagues, you can present a stronger case for implementing an RTLS asset tracking solution. – Jeanne Kraimer is a product marketing manager at Midmark RTLS. For more information, visit midmarkRTLS.com. 1 Ladd Insight Report: Voice of the Clinical Leader Regarding RTLS. February 2021.
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WEBINAR WEDNESDAY Continues in 2022 STAFF REPORT
T
he final count was 166 registrations for the first Webinar Wednesday presentation of 2022. The session “HTM and the Connected Hospital – How to Connect with the Teams, Projects, Applications and Data to Run a Modern HTM Department” was eligible for 1 credit from the ACI. The session was sponsored by Nuvolo.
In the webinar, HTM experts Heidi Horn and Dustin Smith discussed how HTM teams can learn to work smarter, not harder, when staff count and budgets are limited by creating their own connected hospital. A connected hospital is one where there are no silos, and departments that work together can share pertinent information in real-time to help them perform their jobs better and faster. In a connected hospital, the HTM, IT, Facilities, EVS and Construction departments have full visibility into tasks and projects requiring collaboration, as well as equipment issues they are collectively trying to troubleshoot. In a connected hospital, the information security team and the HTM department can collaboratively identify clinical device cybersecurity risks, mitigate them and respond to threats. Nuvolo Product Manager Nikki Reihle also shared what’s new at Nuvolo in 2022. She shared all the great new
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features, new user experience and new interoperability coming out from Nuvolo that will allow HTM departments to be even more connected to the data they need. Attendees also had the opportunity to ask the experts questions during the webinar. One question was, “Why would a hospital need Nuvolo OT security if they have a passive network monitoring tool?” Smith said this was an excellent question. “So, the passive monitoring solutions are phenomenal in terms of being able to recognize anomalies, understanding certain threats and vulnerabilities against devices,” Smith said. “Where the need for IOT security comes in is when it comes to triaging that work. You can ultimately get a large portion of the visibility and some additional contact context and technical information associated with your devices through the PaaS admiring solution.” “But, deploying those boots on the ground, that oftentimes may not even be the technical expertise of your cybersecurity team, that’s where IOT security comes into play. And even when we went through the risk assessment portion of our demo today, when we showed that procedure, and I was talking to the potential of somebody being able to do it like a port redirect. Those procedures are really where a lot of that value comes in.
It is being able to make things as simple as possible. So, frontline technicians can perform the work, rather than, we’ll say, the hightower’s cybersecurity. And that’s ultimately where the, where the difference lies. A recording of the session is available for on-demand viewing, which includes all of the questions and answers, at WebinarWednesday.live. Attendees provided feedback via a survey that included the question, “How will today’s webinar help you improve in your role?” “Communicating opportunities and sharing knowledge with regards to tools and resources to equip HTM and clinical engineering teams,” senior security consultant D. Woods said. “Yes, another perspective on the communication component amongst the silos,” said J. Jansen, director, clinical engineering and telecommunications. “I learned a lot and indeed it will improve my role,” said M. Vallarta, BMET II.
(HDOs) are challenged with getting the most out of their connected devices. Whether they’re spending valuable time looking for devices or manually inputting clinical data, these gaps make it difficult for healthcare technology management (HTM) and IT teams to do their jobs. Hill discussed how Medigate empowers HDOs with industry-leading visibility and accurate device data to inform operational workflows and maximize the effectiveness of teams and devices. In this webinar, attendees were able to learn how Medigate can help them connect with confidence. Attendees were able to gather additional information via a question-and-answer session following Hill’s presentation. One question was, “What if the device is not online? How do you track location?” Hill applauded the question and provided a thoughtful answer. “This is a very astute question asker. Whoever asked that question, thank you for it. It’s wonderful,” Hill said. “So obviously, if we’re tracking network
connection and network location for a device, that could be something that’s a challenge if the device is turned off, and is not connecting to the network. So, we are integrating and have integrated with some of the real-time location system vendors to incorporate that real-time location, whether it’s an RFID tag or some type of thing, the Bluetooth, whatever is on the device itself, to report into the system. So, we can get that real-time information about a device’s location.” Hill also fielded questions regarding hidden devices, device security, location accuracy and more. The webinar was well attended with 71 individuals tuning in for the live presentation. The webinar is also available for on-demand viewing at WebinarWednesday.live. Attendees provided feedback via a post-webinar survey that included the question, “What do you like best about the Webinar Wednesday series?” “The details about the devices and the high method of comprehension,”
Biomedical Technician R. El Ahmar said. “Webinar Wednesday helps keep me in the loop on what is new and happening in HTM. I also like that it is an easy way to keep up my CBET certification,” said J. Wilkolak, CBET. “Very interesting. Brought up several questions that I could forward on to our clinical engineer to see what our current capabilities are,” Biomed Supervisor Eastern Region D. Warmker said. For more information, visit WebinarWednesday.live.
Thank you sponsors:
DEVICE EFFECTIVENESS The January 26 Webinar Wednesday presentation “Effectiveness for Every Device” was sponsored by Medigate and eligible for 1 credit from the ACI. In this 60-minute webinar, expert Samuel Hill, director of product marketing at Medigate, discussed how health care delivery organizations
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We are having an issue with our Hologic Discovery system. The system will come up and will do the phantom calibration at start up but then, after a few minutes, the exam table with the scanner shuts down. It is giving the messages: “Error in function CCommonDevice :: WriteDevice 1” “OK” “CANCEL” “The X-ray controller is not generating A/C line interrupts. Please check that the instrument Power switch and the X-Ray Enablekey are on. - Fix the problem and press “OK”-OR-Press “Cancel” to start QDR without the scanner.” If anyone can point me in the right direction on fixing this issue it would be greatly appreciated.
How do you remove the data and power ports? Is there a certain type of screw driver to use?
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This requires a special tool from Moog. They call the ports LEMO connectors. Moog won’t sell them to you, I believe, unless you have been to their service class. There are actually two tools you need to remove the connector. There is a LEMO plier and a LEMO tool.
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The fix for your problem is: 1. Reinstall software APEX and device driver of the COMCOM or 2. COMCOM board replace.
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The biggest issue with “No AC line interrupt” errors is that the signal is daisy chained throughout the entire table. It could literally be any board, the computer, ComCon, and so on. I recommend calling Hologic Skeletal Health Support at 800-321-4659.
SHOP TALK
is compiled from MedWrench.com. Go to MedWrench.com community forums to find out how you can join and be part of the discussion. EMPOWERING THE BIOMEDICAL/HTM PROFESSIONAL
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ROUNDTABLE
ROUNDTABLE
TOMORY: Ultrasound systems have dramatically evolved, and the technology has matured to the point where there are many good systems in all market segments which will serve health care providers and patients well. First, the systems must be evaluated for features needed now and potentially in the future. Options are much less expensive at the point of purchase. Second, what is the longterm cost of ownership? Will the manufacturer offer training, service keys, etc.? And, are aftermarket parts and probe repairs available? This is why involving the HTM department in the decision is absolutely critical.
ROUNDTABLE Ultrasound Systems
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echNation reached out to several companies and industry experts in search of the latest information regarding ultrasound systems and devices. The following individuals agreed to share their insights with our readers in the healthcare technology management (HTM) field.
performance. This is especially the case for warranties. If warranties are a priority, you’ll probably want to look at new equipment that can offer one- to five-year warranties included with the purchase. But if image quality or top-name manufacturer is a priority, you may trade an extended warranty
Participating in the 2022 roundtable article on ultrasound are Probo Medical Vice President of Marketing Brian Gill, MW Imaging President Robert Grzeskowiak, Avante Health Solutions Ultrasound Specialist James Hawse, Summit Imaging CEO and CTO Larry Nguyen and Innovatus Imaging Vice President of Sales and Marketing Matt Tomory. Q: WHAT SHOULD HEALTH CARE FACILITIES LOOK FOR WHEN PURCHASING AN ULTRASOUND SYSTEM? GILL: The best way to start is to define your needs, then determine a budget/ price range. There are many versatile machines at good prices, but some are much better than others at certain specialties. By prioritizing your needs, the salesperson can offer systems that will provide the best solution. I always like the idea of price versus
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Brian Gill Probo Medical
for better overall performance. A good salesperson should be able to provide a few choices that include new/refurbished options with varying performance levels and warranty.
GRZESKOWIAK: Look for system applications (cardiac, vascular, abdomen, OB/GYN), meets the needs of the end user, access to service tools, system manuals, system service and applications training. HAWSE: A trusted resource that will engage with thought-provoking questions to best understand all facets of their imaging needs; ultimately providing the best and most reliable imaging device that meets the facility’s needs of today and allows for expansion into the future. In addition, it is extremely important to understand the resources that the vendor has invested that will be available post sale. NGUYEN: Health care facilities should assess the resources available to an ultrasound system and its transducers to maximize equipment uptime. These resources would include partnerships with independent service organizations that support in-house clinical engineering teams to work together and service the equipment quickly. Other resources to consider are if the transducers with the system are repairable to reduce the overall cost of ownership.
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Q: WHAT ARE SOME NEW FEATURES FACILITIES SHOULD CONSIDER WHEN PURCHASING ULTRASOUND DEVICES? GILL: From a service perspective, machines with Windows 10 (or Windows 10 IoT) have become a strong consideration for some, and a must for others. This is not because of advanced performance, however. This is a security measure. Windows 7 stopped providing security updates in 2019, which is scary for IT professionals. So, they demand Windows 10, but unfortunately Windows 10 is installed mostly in newer ultrasound systems that are more expensive. Also unfortunate: the only way you can upgrade the system is if the manufacturer can supply it. This is a rare case. The second new key feature: from a broad clinical perspective, I’d say single-crystal probes have been the biggest image-quality breakthrough in recent years. Yes, there have been some really great technologies for niche markets, but single-crystal probes are available to a much larger audience. GRZESKOWIAK: Original equipment manufacturers have gone to great lengths to lock out system diagnostics from biomeds and third-party service companies. Large hospital organizations have the buying power to demand
access to system diagnostics, service manuals, training and software. HAWSE: Artificial intelligence (AI) technology is advancing quickly and providing great tools for enhancing exam efficiency and accuracy. Shearwave technology and expanding beyond the liver in areas like MSK, thyroid, prostate and bowel. Ultrasound fusion is the combination of other imaging modalities (MRI, CT, PET) with real time ultrasound influencing diagnosis, monitoring and therapy. Microvascular flow allows for the visualization of lower velocities and small diameter blood vessel flow. The development of higher frequency transducers for exams requiring higher resolution and superficial imaging.
Robert Grzeskowiak MW Imaging
NGUYEN: A very common feature health care facilities are looking for in ultrasound equipment is matrix imaging capabilities. This feature enables physicians to more quickly assess and diagnose patients. This new, powerful imaging capability increases the accuracy and throughput of physicians.
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TOMORY: Several manufacturers have introduced artificial intelligence (AI) features which may improve diagnostic confidence, increase the speed of patient throughput and reduce administration time. Cybersecurity is a frequent topic when discussing AI as well as the modality in general and several OEMs have specific products to secure the system data and the system itself. Q: HOW DO YOU THINK THAT THESE ADVANCEMENTS WILL AFFECT TROUBLESHOOTING AND SERVICEABILITY? GILL: Windows 10 will help ease security measures a great deal. We’re seeing more hospitals demand Windows 10 in their facilities, and it has become an issue lately with the lack of ultrasounds available. Cost is a prohibiting factor, but there are GE and Philips machines available in the new and refurbished markets. While security attacks on ultrasounds are extremely rare and seemingly unproductive … it’s a potential risk and IT departments don’t like risk. GRZESKOWIAK: System diagnostics and technical service literature enhance biomeds/third-party service organizations repair capabilities. MW Imaging has the capability of enhancing the service abilities of biomeds/ISO field engineers by providing 24/7 tech support, same or next day part delivery, hero kits and over 100 years of technical expertise. HAWSE: New tools and software on ultrasound systems require continued training and education. Facilities need the right resources that have made the investments in a cohesive program from their customer service, tech support, field service, parts/probes, probe repair and training. This allows for an efficient, consistent message that provides the quickest resolution.
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ROUNDTABLE
NGUYEN: These advancements will nominally affect troubleshooting of image quality. Matrix transducers, commonly exhibit CW noise in scenarios where other standard transducers would not. Strong partnerships with transducer repair facilities to help identify these issues will help quickly diagnose problems and quick service of the equipment.
James Hawes Avante Health Solutions
TOMORY: Over the years, ultrasound systems have become much more software and less hardware based. When I entered this industry, I was trained on the Acuson 128 which had approximately 80 circuit boards, seemingly miles of wire and software was on EEPROMS. Troubleshooting these systems required electronics and hardware knowledge. Today, software and IT knowledge are important as well as access to the system’s software, hard drive and diagnostics. As always, I strongly recommend service engineers/HTM professionals back up the system’s drive in the event of a crash or corruption. Q: WITH TECHNOLOGY ADVANCING SO QUICKLY, DO YOU THINK THAT IT’S POSSIBLE FOR A SINGLE SERVICE PROVIDER TO ADDRESS SYSTEMS AND PROBES? GILL: Absolutely. Some companies specialize in one or the other, but a few larger companies address the needs.
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ROUNDTABLE
We provide both and have facilities around the U.S. that specialize in certain tasks. We have two probe repair facilities, one dedicated to TEE, a nationwide service team and a large parts department. GRZESKOWIAK: Yes, however research and design time is required to learn about new system/probe architecture, troubleshooting, circuit board, probe and system repair procedures. Purchasing systems, parts and probes to meet future customer demand is also a requirement. HAWSE: Yes, but it requires the combination of vision, investment and communication to create/obtain the tools required. A true partnership between vendor and facility allows for a deep understanding of the facility’s ever changing inventory and needs. As a result, the appropriate investments can be made to stay in line with the technology advancements and provide the resources required. NGUYEN: We think it’s critical that an ultrasound service provider provides both system and probe service. The ultrasound system and its probes are one ecosystem of technology, and failures that manifest in imaging can be either the system or the probe. From a troubleshooting perspective, it’s imperative to isolate the problem to the system or the probe. In instances where a clinical engineer has a problem and needs assistance to identify if it’s a system or probe issue, an organization that provides both will be the most effective partner. TOMORY: The cost of ownership of ultrasound systems’ balance has also shifted over the years. Today, with hardware being minimal and probes being much more complex and expensive, the bulk of the cost of ownership for ultrasound is probe related. Probes are evolving faster than the systems and health care providers need a reliable source who maintains a technology edge for probe
repair. When it comes to comprehensive probe repair instead of just exchanges, a repair organization needs a solid internal supply chain to repair all the various components of a transducer from the lens to the connector and everything in between – especially in today’s uncertain times. Q: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE FOR PROLONGING THE LIFE OF AN ULTRASOUND SYSTEM AND/OR TRANSDUCERS? GILL: Keep the system clean and give it appropriate power. High heat is an enemy of the system. We walk into facilities that have systems with no ventilation around the ultrasound and/ or is plugged into an overloaded power. This is bad, bad, bad. When your system overheats and/or it’s starved of power, your system will eventually have an expensive problem. Get dedicated power if you can and give the machine room to breathe. Clean the filters twice a year and vacuum out any dust that’s on the panels.
Larry Nguyen Summit Imaging
GRZESKOWIAK: Six-month system and probe preventive maintenance is recommended. MW Imaging can provide on-site service, 24/7 tech support, next day delivery of parts, hero kits, full and preventive maintenance service contracts, in house probe evaluation, repair and loaner capabilities.
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HAWSE: Like any device, treating it well with routine maintenance will add years to the life. Complete annual PMs, frequent cleaning of filters, practice good high- and low-level disinfection on the system and probes with approved methods. Have approved probe care and handling training for relative departments/end users, inspect probes frequently and identify problems early to remedy before they become bigger issues. Any service needs should be handled by a trained professional utilizing approved parts that have been thoroughly tested.
where. Do not buy from brokers who can’t give you support. Make sure they have real facilities and real technicians on-staff. If they’re outsourcing, you’ll likely run into problems when you need parts, replacement probes, service or applications support. You’ll need those people, it’s inevitable, and time is money. In making such a large investment, you should be able to have someone readily available. They should have replacement probes and parts, as well as technical support, to reduce your downtime to a minimum.
NGUYEN: A common strategy for health care facilities is to utilize transducer repair services to avoid costly replacements. To give perspective, a basic repair of a transducer can cost as little as 5% of the replacement price. This method guarantees the attempt to save on transducer life cycle cost at virtually no risk to health care facilities. TOMORY: For an ultrasound system I would suggest proper shutdowns are important – follow the OEM process or you will corrupt software and damage hard drives. Regarding probes, I strongly recommend damage mitigation training for anyone who handles probes in any department. TEE probes are especially important which is why we recently launched our comprehensive SafeTEE programs and tools for TEE probes. Much of the damage we see daily is either preventable or able to be mitigated. Q: WHAT ELSE DO YOU THINK TECHNATION READERS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT PURCHASING AND SERVICING ULTRASOUND DEVICES? GILL: If you don’t think your salesperson knows what they’re doing, get a different salesperson or shop else-
etc. Align yourself with the vendor that spends the time to learn about your project and offers a solution based on your priorities. Warranty and service are extremely important, make sure and have a good understanding of what resources are available to you post sale. Have the vendor walk you through a service call and how that is handled and prioritized. There is big difference in a model that outsources all resources and one that is integrated with in-house customer service, tech support, field service, parts, probes, probe repair and clinical support. Lastly, if you are able, do a site visit with the vendor and learn first-hand of its resources.
Matt Tomory Innovatus Imaging
NGUYEN: The cost of repairing faulty equipment is much lower than the alternative cost of replacement and is a fruitful savings opportunity with virtually no risk. Opting to repair first rather than immediately replace the technology can maximize its useful life and save health care facilities as much as 95 percent relative to the cost of original equipment manufacturer replacements.
GRZESKOWIAK: The ability to repair systems quickly will enhance cash flow, reduce patient overflow and improved customer satisfaction. MW Imaging’s technical team can provide the necessary products and services to assure a quick turnaround time.
TOMORY: Most of the readers of TechNation are HTM professionals and understand the long-term costs and service limitations associated with new capital equipment. I would recommend HTM be involved in purchasing decisions so devices can be evaluated for long terms costs and service as well as features for patient care.
HAWSE: Have a clear understanding of your needs and prioritize all aspects of your project, like technology/ options required, identify imaging needs of today and tomorrow, budget, training needs, service needs,
For an informative video, visit 1TechNation.com/roundtable and select this month’s article!
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COVER SPOTLIGHT STORY
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Right to Repair Update A MOVEMENT GAINING MOMENTUM
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he last thing that biomeds need during an international pandemic is to have their hands tied. After valiant efforts to stand up hundreds of COVID-19 surge units, follow many additional protocols and face illness at home, HTM professionals are as exhausted as their clinical colleagues.
BY: K. RICHARD DOUGLAS
Making their jobs harder to do is just wrongheaded. That was the central message of an opinion piece that was featured on MarketWatch.com in May of 2020. The article was co-authored by Kevin O’Reilly of U.S. PIRG and Leticia Reynolds, president of the Colorado Association of Biomedical Equipment Technicians (CABMET). The right to repair activism effort has gained steam during the pandemic. HTM professionals like Reynolds have recognized that the frustration of having inadequate servicing documentation, service keys and test equipment, has been compounded by the pandemic. The tide may be slowly turning. While several bills have been pending in a number of state legislatures, there has been some momentum at the federal level recently. For many in the larger right to repair movement, the issue isn’t only about making repairs more accessible, but also about keeping electronic waste out of landfills. That concern may be one of many for biomeds, but hampering their ability to make repairs unobstructed, especially when conditions make the availability of an OEM field service engineer more chal-
lenging, is a big concern TechNation previously addressed the availability, or limited availability, of online repair manuals and the FDA perspective. At that time, there was pending legislation in 22 states that addressed the concerns of farmers, backyard mechanics and consumers, as well as those in the HTM community. In California, a valiant effort by local HTM professionals moved a bill very close to the goal line. Nobody can give the biomeds there anything less than an “A” for effort and persistence. With the help of a state legislator, the concern was exposed to the entire California legislative body. The right to repair campaign is not restricted to the U.S. In Europe, right to repair activists created the Right to Repair Europe organization. It is part of an advocacy network of 80 organizations based in 17 European countries. In Denmark, workshops are held where people with a talent for doing repairs as non-professionals, offer their skills to the public. The volunteer repairers ask for contributions to cover the cost of coffee. This is grass-roots activism, but for local residents it’s just a way to keep electronic devices they like. The European Union recently passed new rules requiring manufacturers to ensure that spare parts are readily available for up to 10 years after a product is brought to market. Appliances are required to allow for dismantling using conventional tools. Regulations in the United States continue to make slow, but steady progress. “I think overall this last year or so there have been significant strides in the
right to repair movement. I know that not everything has to do with the medical equipment field, but every step forward is a step in the right direction. There have been states across the country that have put forth some right to repair legislation which has been amazing. The U.S. Copyright Office removing some of the repair restrictions was also a huge move forward,” says Reynolds. She says that she is hopeful that these small changes and movement forward can help dispel the argument that these changes will cause a decrease in patient safety; that just isn’t the case. On October 27, 2021, the U.S. Copyright Office submitted its “new exemptions to Section 1201 of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act.” The latest exemption modifies an exemption from 2015, granting access to medical device data and adding wording to cover devices that aren’t implanted and allowing patients to grant authorization to third parties. GROWING MOMENTUM The momentum has been building in recent years with more focus being brought to legislators at the state and federal levels. Thanks to the efforts of groups like The Repair Association and U.S. PIRG, advocacy for HTM professionals and other interested stakeholders are being represented. “We had legislation under consideration in 27 states in 2021 – more than half the nation by any measure. Several of the bills included everything with a chip – which is our main intent. A variety of bills were filed that were specific to a particular category of equipment – such as farm and ranch
It’s crazy to think that a patient might be denied life-saving care simply because a biomed’s polo doesn’t have the manufacturer logo on it.
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COVER STORY
COVER STORY
“It also told us that ‘the continued availability of third-party entities to service and repair medical devices is critical to the functioning of the U.S. health care system.’ WE NEED TO PUT REPAIR TOOLS IN QUALIFIED
BIOMEDS’ HANDS, AND WE NEED TO DO IT NOW.”
- Kevin O’Reilly equipment, home appliances, mobile devices and hospital equipment,” says Gay Gordon-Byrne, executive director of The Repair Association. She says that the biggest change for everyone was the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) report released in May of last year titled “Nixing the Fix: An FTC Report to Congress on Repair Restrictions”. “The president then included right to repair in his list of pro-competitive rules he’s asked the administration to adopt, and the FTC rapidly voted as a commission to work on making new rules. The rule-making process is lengthy and not always applicable to right to repair and the FTC has been very clear that state legislation is the most practical way of guaranteeing consumers their legal rights,” Gordon-Byrne says. “Please read at least the executive summary and note that the FTC has evaluated all claims of danger, cybersecurity risk and privacy risk to consumers and found ‘scant evidence’ of support for the claims. The FTC states specifically in the body of the report that these problems also exist with medical equipment. Staff of the FTC has helped Congressman Joe Morelle (D-NY) with review of his right to repair bill and also helped our bill sponsors in state legislatures with polishing the language of our bills,” Gordon-Byrne says. She adds that the FTC has encouraged all of our sponsors to include medical equipment. “Several bills more recently filed – Illinois, Pennsylvania, Delaware – have
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included medical and are encouraged by the report. As more bills are filed and refiled or amended, we see increasing interest in making sure that medical equipment is also included,” Gordon-Byrne says. She says that California worked hard on a medical equipment bill under Senator Susan Eggman, and progressed through two committees before being put down by the third. “Due to legislative rules, Senator Eggman cannot refile the same bill this year, but can file something different which may (or may not) happen to include medical devices. For example, if she files a bill amending California law regarding warranties, that would be general enough to include medical devices,” Gordon-Byrne adds. SPECIFIC STATE INITIATIVES While there has been some progress at the federal level, activists in several states have been busy bringing this issue to the attention of local legislators to enact change at the state level. “Arkansas filed and passed a bill directed specifically at repair of hospital equipment and passed it rapidly through their state senate before AdvaMed even knew there was something afoot. Opposition focused on the house and made enough confusion to kill the bill in 2021. The lobbyist group that managed the work was not hired by us but informed us of the details. We do not know if they plan to refile in 2022 or if the rules in Arkansas prevent another attempt until 2023,” Gordon-Byrne says.
She says that Colorado fought a particularly painful battle for right to repair including medical equipment and got the full attention of the disability rights community. “Kevin O’Reilly believes there might be a new effort focused on wheelchairs and other assistive devices in 2022,” Gordon-Byrne says. She says that New York passed Digital Fair Repair through its Senate in June, and the matching bill in the assembly needs to be brought for a vote in 2022. “We expect the bill to be formally amended and get through consumer protection committees and to the floor in both bodies and presented for signature by the governor before end of session in June. The current version of the bill still exempts medical equipment,” Gordon-Byrne adds. The focus on medical devices in the California effort should be of special interest to the HTM community. “As Gay mentioned, our effort to pass Sen. Susan Eggman’s California Medical Device Right to Repair Act last year built momentum that we haven’t yet seen in the space. I worked with a group of talented biomeds, clinical engineers and HTMs who were fed up with manufacturer’s unnecessary and harmful repair restrictions, which they have been dealing with for years,” says Kevin O’Reilly, right to repair campaign director with U.S. PIRG. He says that the group
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brought the facts and stories of restrictions that were limiting hospitals’ ability to fix machines needed to save patient’s lives – particularly during the pandemic – to leadership in hospitals across the state and members of the state legislature. “That work convinced several major hospital networks and the California Hospital Association to endorse the bill, helping the bill to advance within one step of the state senate floor. Though our side’s arguments were able to overcome the intense opposition from industry groups in its first two committees, the industry’s lobbying power and influence led to the bill being killed in a back-room part of the legislative process,” O’Reilly says. O’Reilly says that it was frustrating to watch that bill go down in that fashion after they had clearly won the argument in committee. “But no right to repair bill of any kind had gained the traction that ours did. It’s a testament to the leadership of Sen. Eggman and the HTM professionals who made sure that decision-makers heard their story. If biomeds across the country continue to recruit their hospital leadership to support right to repair, I’m confident we can win this fight,” he says. The U.S. Constitution was written to vest more power at the local level and empower local citizens. For that reason, efforts at the state level reflect the interests of state residents and
allows for local activism and participation in the process. “With a new legislative session kicking off in states across the country, there’s a lot of hope that biomeds can continue to push forward in the crucial effort to eliminate manufacturer repair monopolies. Right to repair bills that include medical equipment are already active in both Pennsylvania and Illinois. More are sure to come as the states move forward,” O’Reilly says. YOUR VOICES MUST BE HEARD The clarion cry for reforms in right to repair will require the efforts of organizations like O’Reilly’s and Gordon-Byrnes’. But, it must be bolstered by the efforts of those in the HTM community to continue the momentum and effect real change. O’Reilly says that medical device manufacturers often argue that only they should service equipment because only they are regulated by the FDA. “This is true, but that is by design. Hospitals and ISOs have to meet rigorous reporting and procedural regulations implemented by the Joint Commission, the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services and more. The idea that non-manufacturer repair is not regulated is hogwash,” he says. Gordon-Byrne asks that we continue to publish the efforts made in favor of right to repair and reminds readers that they are the best resource for advocacy
in support of medical right to repair for legislators. “Even where a state bill is not currently afoot – bringing the need for legislation to every legislator is how bills get started and moved. Contact the chair of the committee and the leadership of the state hospital association. Between the BMETS and the hospitals, the legislature can educate legislators on how repairs are done and debunk AdvaMed and MITA,” she says. O’ Reilly says that it’s crazy to think that a patient might be denied life-saving care simply because a biomed’s polo doesn’t have the manufacturer logo on it. “Biomeds working for HDOs and ISOs are just as qualified, if not more qualified, to provide high-quality, safe and effective service. The FDA told us so in their 2018 third-party servicing report. It also told us that ‘the continued availability of third-party entities to service and repair medical devices is critical to the functioning of the U.S. health care system.’ We need to put repair tools in qualified biomeds’ hands, and we need to do it now,” he concludes. REFERENCES: https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/documents/ reports/nixing-fix-ftc-report-congressrepair-restrictions/nixing_the_fix_report_ final_5521_630pm-508_002.pdf https://www.fda.gov/media/113431/download
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CAREER CENTER
How to Overcome ‘Imposter Syndrome’ BY KATHLEEN FURORE
R
ecently, I learned that two young adults – both doing extremely well in their chosen careers – have been experiencing “imposter syndrome.” It is hard for me to understand, given their success. How can someone who feels like they’re not as competent as others think they are overcome that feeling so they can relish their accomplishments?
Today’s HTM teams play an important role in medical device cybersecurity—but to do the job well, you need the right tools. See how the Nuvolo OT Security solution can help protect your hospital:
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Are you attending HIMSS this month in Orlando? If so, contact us at 1-844-4-NUVOLO and reference “NUVOLO AT HIMSS” to set up a meeting with us.”
It can be challenging – but it is possible to overcome imposter syndrome and ultimately flourish with self-confidence, industry experts say. “Many people have a freeze response to it, almost like they’re being bullied and don’t know what to say or do,” says certified career coach Gracie Miller, founder of Live Life Purpose Coaching & Consulting, who has nine years of experience working with people at all professional levels who suffer from this syndrome. “Some assume this feeling is the truth, so why question it? The trick is to first notice you are limiting yourself, or your perception of yourself. You’ll know because of the thoughts or feelings that make you feel insignificant or anxious. Once you’ve noticed it, you have some options,” Miller says. What are some of those options? Here, career experts weigh in with suggestions. • Visualize the offending thought and erase it. “Replace it with a more positive thought, allow that thought to repeat a few times until it settles in your body, then continue with your task,” Miller suggests. • Write down your skills. This, says
Kathleen Furore Miller, will help you remember why you aren’t an imposter. “From typing 70 words a minute to writing code to running a 9-minute mile to baking the best blueberry pie anyone’s ever tasted – it can be work-related, not work-related. There should be at least 50 things on this list,” says Miller. “If you feel like you’re bragging, you’re doing it right.” • Keep a file of specific, work-related accomplishments. It is what helped Leanna Serras, chief customer officer of online perfume retailer FragranceX, combat the syndrome early in her career. “When I was appointed as the chief customer officer at my company, it was a significant jump from my previous role and there were times where I felt like an imposter,” Serras recalls. “I decided to record my accomplishments to improve my self-image. For example, when the CEO sent me an email acknowledging my
EMPOWERING THE BIOMEDICAL/HTM PROFESSIONAL
excellent work on a project, I saved the email in a special folder. Over time I accumulated a folder full of positive feedback about my work. Every time I felt like an impostor, I would just open up the folder and remind myself about my accomplishments.” • Remember the past. According to career consultant Christopher Lee, founder of Purpose Redeemed, recalling past accomplishments can help banish feelings of inadequacy. “This helps us center ourselves on the truth, rather than a mindset of deficiency, and combats the self-fulfilling prophecies of negativity,” Lee says. “We remember that there’s a reason we’re in our roles; there’s a reason we’re at the table.” Keep things in perspective. Focusing beyond yourself is a good way to start, Lee notes. “I once confided in a mentor that I felt inadequate following a promotion. I’ll never forget his response: ‘I recommend that you keep a perspective on pressure. Are you doing anything that thousands of people haven’t done before? Probably not. Are you going to succeed or fail significantly more than others before you? Probably not.’” Lee says. “Ultimately, things are never as big a deal as we make them out to be.” – Kathleen Furore is a Chicago-based writer and editor who has covered business-related topics for a variety of trade and consumer publications. You can email her your career questions at kfurore@yahoo.com.
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20/20 IMAGING INSIGHTS Is it 3D, 4D, or 3D/4D, and what is 5D Ultrasound? BY TED LUCIDI
Y
ou may be surprised to know that the first 3D ultrasound image was acquired back in 1986. Saying that 3D ultrasound technology has advanced over the last 30-some years is an understatement. In its infancy, 3D ultrasound images were acquired by sonographers manually moving a standard ultrasound probe across the anatomy, while sensors determined the probe’s relative change in position. Images were only static (single image), and they were not anywhere near real time. Fast-forward to 2010. We’re able to view a beating heart in 3-dimensions, rotate the live image in any direction, and non-invasively assess cardiac functions in real-time using 3D matrix array probes. But how did we get from point-A to point-B, and is that bridge technology still relevant?
In between the manually acquired 3D images of the 1980s and 1990s, and the live-3D images of the 2000s exist mechanically driven 3D probes.
Probes, such as the GE RIC5-9-D or Philips 3D9-3v, utilize a traditional 2D array, which is mechanically swept across, or oscillated back and forth, while multiple single images (or slices) are acquired by the scanner. The multiple images are then integrated with one another and assembled to render a 3D image. Volume data acquisition, analysis and display occur in, almost, real time. The scanner’s software interpolates any gaps in information between each slice to create a smooth image. Just like the images acquired by matrix array probes, mechanically acquired images can be sliced, diced or rotated in free space. Despite the popularity of high-tech matrix array probes, mechanically driven probes still maintain a strong market presence. The majority are used in ob-gyn, abdominal and small parts applications. In fact, the design of the mechanically driven probes of the late 1990s and early 2000s isn’t
Ted Lucidi much different than current models. One of the reasons for their continued popularity is cost per benefit. The applications, in which mechanical probes are used, do not merit the added costs associated with the technology needed to support matrix array probes. One of the reasons for developing matrix array technology was visualization of cardiac activity. Based on the amount of and the speed at which cardiac activity occurs, a mechanically driven probe would be unable to effectively capture cardiac volumetric data. In the time that a mechanical probe would perform one acquisitional sweep, the activity level within the heart would have changed considerably. Activity in the abdomen, small parts and womb occur at a very slow pace when compared to the heart. Existing, cost-effective technology is more than
EXPERT ADVICE able to provide radiologists with the image quality and volumetric data that is needed to make accurate diagnoses (and parents with a 3D image of baby). Another reason for their continued popularity is related to physical size. The most popular models of mechanical probes are used in intracavity studies. Current matrix array technology is quite sophisticated, and it does increase probe size when compared to 2D counterparts (ex. Philips X5-1 versus S5-1). Applying the same technology to an intracavity probe would make an already cumbersome probe that much more. Mechanical probes will remain in the marketplace until both the cost and physical size of matrix array probes and technology decrease. We’ve already seen new matrix array probes designed for abdominal and small parts use, but the cost of both the probes and the scanner technology makes it challenging for departments to justify the added costs. There is minimal increased reimbursement for a 3D ultrasound versus a traditional 2D ultrasound study based
on minimal added “clinical” benefit. So, what exactly is 3D, 4D, 3D/4D, and now 5D ultrasound? In general, it’s all the same, just with minor tweaks to the details. 3D ultrasound refers to a single static 3D ultrasound image. 4D ultrasound is the addition of time. Consider it live, or semi-real time, acquisition and display of 3D ultrasound data that allows for volume imaging and volume calculation. 3D/4D is a general term that refers to ultrasound probes that can be used to acquire both a 3D image and a live 3D (or 4D) volumetric image. 5D ultrasound is the latest buzzword. Also known as HD ultrasound, 5D uses software that makes images appear smoother, as if captured using higher resolution, and also gives the image a flesh-colored tone. 5D seems to be targeted at the obstetrics market. The purpose seems to be purely marketing in that the image of the in-utero baby appears more natural and more photogenic. Think of it this way. With 2D ultrasound, the length and width of an
artery can be visualized. Using 3D ultrasound, it is possible to visualize depth to the artery. 4D ultrasound enables live visualization of the artery and enables users to calculate the volume within the artery. 5D just makes the artery look pretty. Relative to 4D and 5D, there are no changes in probe or scanner technology that actually enables a fourth or fifth dimension of imaging. Innovatus Imaging supports the most popular 3D imaging probe models, whether mechanical or matrix technology. Multiple models are fully repairable, meaning that you’re not presented with costly options for replacement … just cost-effective repair solutions. All 3D probes are backed by a six-month warranty … one of the longest in the industry. For more information about probe repair and our capabilities, please reach out to Ted Lucidi at TedL@ innovatusimaging.com or visit www.innovatusimaging.com/ultrasound – Ted Lucidi, CBET, is a clinical marketing and commercialization specialist at Innovatus Imaging.
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EXPERT ADVICE
CYBERSECURITY
Hardening your Medical Inventory: Let’s Get Physical BY ANDREW AIKEN
F
oundational to the infrastructure (and the OSI model itself) are the physical components of the network. Firewalls, ASAs, IPS/IDS and network analysis tools are integral but rendered futile if the combination to the datacenter is 1-2-3-4-5. Less extreme and more likely are the number of mobile medical devices that contain sensitive information and could be compromised by malice, mischief or chance due to unsecured entry points or unsecured portable media. These include open consoles, ports, default/weak passwords and easily pilfered storage such as CompactFlash cards. For this exercise, the focus will be on patient-accessible areas of the medical facility.
The unintentional mishaps are not hard to imagine, as family members stricken with grief work to update loved ones and suddenly find that their phone is at 6% battery. Any open USB port in sight becomes fair game. In a recent ECRI finding, the direct effects of those actions could result in device shutdowns, compromises to device settings and performance, or devices failing to monitor or alarm. As a cost-effective protection, USB port blockers are a simple solution to these situations in concert with staff education and can even deter low-level opportunistic threats. Another point of exposure are open network jacks, which are less prone to casual contact since few people carry network cables with them but still offer an entry point.
Andrew Aiken Many facilities have “non-OIT” networks, which tend to be less secure and can usually house a variety of systems such as access controls, cameras, building automation (boiler/HVAC controls), elevator lift controls, nurse calls, etc. An open port in a lobby adjacent to a check-in kiosk or display board could provide a foothold on a weak network design. There is some comfort in that there are safeguards throughout the OSI ladder, but as Mr. Miyagi would counsel, the best defense is “no be there.” With such sage wisdom in hand, only run patch cables from panel to switch for documented devices where possible. Wireless endpoints are also vulnerable. They are comprising more and more of the inventory but are also much more appealing to both the casual and professional offender. How can these be weak from a physical standpoint, outside of outright theft or poor media sanitization habits? Enter the dreaded default passwords that vendors love and HTM personnel are sometimes averse to change.
EMPOWERING THE BIOMEDICAL/HTM PROFESSIONAL
It is easy to search online for a make and model to quickly find a default service password for a given medical device. From this, one could obtain the IP/MAC address, SSID, and possibly the wireless key in addition to the possibility of data exfiltration, alarm manipulation or other compromise of the device that could do serious patient harm. Even if you have changed the default password, you should always ask yourself “Is it strong and has it been reused?” Poor password hygiene can lead to hackers COMB’ing through your data. COMB, or the Compilation of Many Breaches, is a database that contains the combined usernames and passwords from previous exploits. To guard against this, many agencies offer secure password managers to ensure complexity and uniqueness. As with other layers of the OSI, unneeded services and ports should be eliminated wherever possible and have an appropriate mitigating control where it is not possible. Maintain the critical eye and secure the low-hanging fruit, most notably the SD or CompactFlash that usually accompanies portable EKG carts. Follow these simple rules and you will avoid having your networks or hardware get, in Mr. Miyagi’s words, “squish just like grape.” Now that you mastered the physical inventory security, I’ll see you at the All Valley. – Andrew Aiken is a VISN 9 Information Systems BESS with the VA MidSouth Healthcare Network.
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EXPERT ADVICE
THE FUTURE
Education Shifts Gears Amid COVID-19 BY JOIE MARHEFKA
I
t has been almost two years since our lives were disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Like everyone else, we had to quickly switch to online classes. This was, of course, particularly challenging in classes that have a major hands-on component, but, like everyone else, we adapted and found creative ways to teach courses online.
While I am glad that our classes are (mostly) back to normal now, teaching through the pandemic has forced me to come up with ideas that will enhance our courses and continue to benefit our students going forward. While everyone (including me) has stories of struggles caused by the pandemic, I am hoping to share some of the good things that have come out of the last few years and how these things will continue to help students in the future. During the period where our classes were online, as well as much of the 2020-21 school year, we were forced to conduct guest lectures virtually. While in many ways this was not ideal, it did allow us to easily expand the pool of guest speakers to include people who were not local as well as those who were not able to commit sufficient time to visit the campus. Even as we are now able to bring guests to campus, we have continued to use virtual platforms to allow students to hear from and talk with a wider variety of professionals. On a related note, this year our incoming students were paired with alumni mentors. Each student was matched with a recent graduate and
asked to talk with their mentor about various topics throughout the semester. The majority of our alumni volunteers are no longer in the local area. However, this did not seem to cause any problems for the students, since they are so used to using technology for video chats. They easily connected with their mentors. Hopefully these relationships will continue beyond the semester, and the students will benefit from mentoring as they begin their careers. Another challenge during the past two years has been limitations on touring hospitals. Typically, our students get to tour several hospitals (and sometimes device companies too) before starting their internships. This gives them a better idea of the work environment and allows them to see equipment that we don’t have on campus. Since these opportunities have been limited during the pandemic, I have been creating interactive 360-degree videos of different work environments, such as biomed shops, operating rooms and training facilities. Even as we are able to conduct more field trips, these videos will allow students to interact with environments, situations and devices that they would not otherwise be able to experience. In addition, these videos will be helpful for incoming and prospective students who are trying to decide if this is the right field for them. The videos can also promote the field to high school students or people looking for a career change. Finally, during the pandemic, with AAMI’s help and coordination, various
EMPOWERING THE BIOMEDICAL/HTM PROFESSIONAL
Joie Marhefka schools, programs and professionals shared material that they had created. It truly seemed like we were all in this together. I have collaborated with educators at other schools to share ideas and strategies during these challenging times. I hope that many of us can connect in person at conferences this year and that continuing to share will benefit our students as they complete their education and start their careers. While I hope that the COVID-19 pandemic is soon in the rearview mirror and that things can truly get back to normal, I will build on the positive things that we learned during these past two years. Continuing to use some of these technologies and ideas in my classes will benefit our students to start their careers and in the future. – Joie N. Marhefka, Ph.D., is the biomedical engineering technology program coordinator at Penn State New Kensington.
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EXPERT ADVICE
DIRTY POWER? IMAGING EQUIPMENT DOWN AGAIN?
THE OTHER SIDE
You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know BY JIM FEDELE
I
YOUR SOLUTION IS THE MEDICAL POWER FILTER THAT WILL EXTEND THE LIFE OF YOUR EQUIPMENT.
n my opinion, asset management is one of the top responsibilities biomeds have in an organization. Guiding and recommending purchases for our customers is probably one of the most frequent requests I get. Our processes ensure I know and have assisted (most of the time) in any equipment purchase. This ensures that we are purchasing equipment that we can service, that it is standardized throughout our facilities, and that it is from a partnering vendor.
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Being included in the process minimizes serviceability surprises and allows for an addition look at what is being requested. However, for the purpose of this article I would like to discuss the pro and cons of the standardization of equipment purchases from a specific vendor. I will always be a proponent of standardizing equipment purchases by vendor and model. The company that employees me vehemently drives standardization. Having the same patient monitor throughout facilities has many benefits. It eliminates the need for nurses to be trained on multiple devices which reduces user errors. It allows for better pricing, and serviceability issues are easier to manage and solve. Today, nurses do not always work on the same unit or even in the same facility, feeling the pressure to be efficient; nurses are often moved around where needed. When monitors are the same everywhere, a nurse can easily adapt and not have to worry about how to use the equipment. From a pricing perspective, everyone knows the more volume you purchase the better the pricing. Vendors always sharpen their pencils when they know that they will get all of your business. Service issues are easier to manage too, from spare parts to
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training. Having to only accommodate one type of monitor makes life simpler. As I think about some of the problems we have had lately, I can guarantee getting the vendor to solve them would have been more difficult if we only had five monitors instead of the 45 we have. The loyalty and cooperation that a vendor will provide when they know you have committed to only purchasing monitors from them is many times better than those on which you only have a couple of devices. To standardize makes sense and is the right thing to do, but there is a downside. The downside to standardization is, “You do not know what you do not know.” What I mean is that when you lock into a certain vendor and model you may be missing out. Competition is the greatest asset we have in this country; everyone is always trying to improve their products to be able to dethrone the market leader. That means if a competitor has “built a better mouse trap,” you may not even be aware. I have many priorities competing for my time. When a competing vendor wants to demo a new monitor that is not part of my standardization plan, I do not choose to meet with or talk to them. Really, who has the time to listen to someone’s product pitch when you know you won’t be purchasing it? However, after some reflection on this, I may be missing out on some knowledge. I have noticed, at times, that the market leader’s product development becomes stagnant, for whatever reason. Meanwhile, the competition is working hard to develop a product that mitigates the weakness of the leader. Vendors are very good at pointing out the other’s weaknesses, sometimes it is minor but sometimes it is not. It may not be something I even thought of as a weakness. I am learning that there is value in at least hearing what other vendors have to offer.
EMPOWERING THE BIOMEDICAL/HTM PROFESSIONAL
Jim Fedele Today, we live in a world where advances in technology come at a feverish pace. This makes the time right for a lot of big improvements in medical technology. Add in the necessity that equipment communicates to the electronic medical record (EMR) and there are a lot of new developments. I experienced this firsthand when we were trying to integrate our old monitoring standard to our EMR. Due to the age and lack of advancement from the vendor, it was going to be a very long and expensive process to get our monitors to talk to the system. This forced us to make a change to our “standard” company. Our new vendor can seamlessly dump into the EMR. The HTM manager’s world is full of multiple priorities and emergencies. It is hard to find time to listen to a vendor that, in our minds, has no chance of selling a product to us. However, in the future, I will be making time so I can learn what is new and question our “standardized” vendor when I see an advancement they do not have. – Jim Fedele, CBET, is the senior director of clinical engineering for UPMC. He manages six Susquehanna Health hospitals. He has 30 years of HTM experience and has worked for multiple service organizations.
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he 2022 HTMA-OH Expo enjoyed a great turnout from both attendees and sponsors with more than 100 individuals picking up badges for the event. The Top Golf event was the first of its kind for the association. Previous Reception/Happy Hour events have been held at the expo site the night before. Sponsored by PartsSource and reLink, had almost HTMA-OH had almost 70 people came to socialize and hit golf balls in the snow. The event also featured some fun giveaways.
1. The HTMA-OH Expo included an event at Top Golf sponsored by PartsSource and reLink. Approximately 70 people came to socialize and hit golf balls in the snow. 2. Lori Clifford from Renovo Solutions interacts with attendees in the HTMA-OH Exhibit Hall.
The first day of the expo started with breakfast and registration while exhibitors put the final touches on their booths. The expo hall opened before the morning educational sessions shared knowledge on a wide range of topics. Next, was the keynote presentation, “Your Service Minded Brain: Understand our Brain and Improve Service Related Outcomes” by John Walls with Calyx. Lunch was sponsored by PioBio/Adepto followed by some time in the expo hall with sponsors. During each session, a drawing was held for some smaller prizes, like Yeti mugs.
3. HTM professionals enjoyed networking at events hosted by HTMA-OH. 4. A door prize drawing was held in the expo hall. Several attendees took home great prizes donated by various companies and organizations.
During the open expo hall time, some bigger prizes like Bluetooth headphones, Visa gift cards and Yeti backpack cooler. The afternoon sessions covered additional topics of interest to HTM professionals. “Overall, it was a great event which the feedback seems to show that everyone agreed. We look to continue to grow and improve HTMA-Ohio and have already chosen the dates for our next expo, February 2-3, 2023 with more details coming in the spring,” HTMA-OH Treasurer Ken Mylar said.
5. HTMA-OH holds its annual expo to serve as a single-site resource for education and professional development of Ohio’s HTM community.
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Install, maintain, and service equipment within multiple product lines. Provide a high level of support for customers and field service operations by exhibiting a high degree of professionalism.
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Sodexo Clinical Technology Management seeks an HTM Supervisor at Blythedale Children’s Hospital Valhalla, NY. This position will oversee both biomedical and imaging services including vendor management, regulatory compliance and project management. This position is approximately 85% administrative and 15% hands on work. Position may require local travel to accounts and clinics in the area.
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HTM Supervisor
TRIMEDX is an established organization created on the principle of supporting hospital medical equipment service centers with excellence. Today, TRIMEDX is the largest independent medical equipment service provider with locations in over 40 states and 3,000+ employees. We share a common purpose of serving customers, patients, communities and each other with equal measures of caring and performance.
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The TRIMEDX Biomedical Engineering Intern gains on the job training by shadowing experienced clinical engineers, biomedical engineers, lab engineers, and radiology engineers under the close supervision of TRIMEDX management. Duties include understanding the typical day of an engineer and how to work in a hospital environment, how to respond to service calls, balancing workload, documentation of repairs and PM Work Orders, vendor management, learning how to calibrate equipment, troubleshooting techniques for various types of equipment, preventive maintenance procedures, electrical safety, and how to repair equipment.
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The Mobile Medical Equipment Representative is responsible for supporting the client’s Moveable Medical Equipment (MME) inventory requirements throughout the facility ensuring that the client’s needs are met in a timely manner. The person is primarily responsible for cleanliness and for the transfer of MME to designated areas of the facility. This employee must demonstrate company values, by exceeding the client and team expectations. Serve as a point of contact between the company and our customer.
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BREAKROOM
BREAKROOM
CONTINUING EDUCATION Visit www.MedWrench.com/Bulletin-Board/Continuing-Education for more details and to register for these upcoming classes.
BULLETIN BOARD
April 4-15, 2022 - RS C-Arm Training: OE TI - Multi-Product C 9900 & OEC 98 00
A
g? n i t a r b Cali n e B Who is is the
n online resource where medical equipment professionals can find all the information needed to help them be more successful! The easy to navigate Bulletin Board gives you access to informative blogs, expos and events, continuing education opportunities, and a job board. Visit www.MedWrench.com/Bulletin-Board to find out more about this resource.
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MARCH 2022
WWW.1TECHNATION.COM
MARCH 2022
TECHNATION
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ALPHABETICAL INDEX
SAVE THE DATE
A.M. Bickford…………………………
APRIL 11-13, 2022 | ATLANTA, GA
32
Healthmark Industries………………
55
MW Imaging…………………………
16
Adepto Medical………………………… 7
HERO…………………………………
49
Nuvolo…………………………………
62 33
AIV……………………………………
37
HTM Jobs……………………………
78
Probo Medical…………………………
ALCO Sales & Service Co.……………
75
Infusion Pump Repair…………………
48
Pronk Technologies, Inc. …………… 2,70
AllParts Medical………………………
19
Injector Support and Service…………
61
Renew Biomedical……………………
75
Avante Health Solutions………………
66
Innovatus Imaging……………………… 8
Rigel Medical, Seaward Group………
54
BC Group International, Inc…………
88
Interpower……………………………
87
SakoMED……………………………
17
BETA Biomed Services………………
77
Lexicon………………………………
70
SalesMaker Carts……………………
82
Cadmet………………………………
65
Mammo.com…………………………
40
Southeastern Biomedical, Inc………
31
Master Medical Equipment…………
75
SPBS, Inc……………………………
82
Maull Biomedical Training……………
College of Biomedical Equipment Technology……………………………
11
Cure Biomedical………………………
35
ECRI Institute…………………………
72
Elite Biomedical Solutions……………… 4 Engineering Services, KCS Inc………… 6
REGISTRATION
43
Summit Imaging………………………
68
Medigate………………………………… 5
Tri-Imaging Solutions…………………
46
MedWrench…………………………
60
TruAsset, LLC…………………………
27
Multimedical Systems………………
25
USOC Bio-Medical Services…………… 3
Multi Medix……………………………
45
Webinar Wednesday…………………
PC 294
WE’RE ON
FACEBOOK!
A.M. Bickford www.ambickford.com • 800-795-3062
SPBS, Inc www.spbs.com/ • (800) 713-2396
USOC Bio-Medical Services www.usocmedical.com • 855-888-8762
P
82 3
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Beds/Stretchers HERO
NEW!
Demtruk 2.0 & Lower Shelf
herobiz.com • 800-834-1122
LIKE US:
www.facebook.com/TechNationMag
X-Truk
1technation.com
www.alcosales.com • 800-323-4282
BC Group International, Inc www.BCGroupStore.com • 314-638-3800
Cure Biomedical www.cure-us.com • 775.750.7070
HERO herobiz.com • 800-834-1122
Master Medical Equipment MMEMed.com • 866-468-9558
Multimedical Systems www.multimedicalsystems.com • 888-532-8056
SalesMaker Carts
More Carts available at
www.salesmakercarts.com • 800-821-4140
SalesMakerCarts.com 1.800.821.4140 82
TECHNATION
MARCH 2022
SPBS, Inc www.spbs.com/ • (800) 713-2396
WWW.1TECHNATION.COM
Rigel Medical, Seaward Group www.seaward-groupusa.com • 813-886-2775
49
P P
54
Cardiac Monitoring MMEMed.com • 866-468-9558
75
P P
31
P P
Cardiology Southeastern Biomedical, Inc sebiomedical.com/ • 828-396-6010
CMMS Nuvolo
62
nuvolo.com • 844-468-8656
TruAsset, LLC
27
www.truasset.com • 214-276-1280
Computed Tomography
Biomedical ALCO Sales & Service Co.
Calibration
Master Medical Equipment 32
TRAINING
Anesthesia
SERVICE
TRAINING
SERVICE
PARTS
AD PAGE
Company Info
Company Info
PARTS
MDEXPOSHOW.COM
AD PAGE
SERVICE INDEX
NOW OPEN!
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75 88 35 49 75
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EMPOWERING THE BIOMEDICAL/HTM PROFESSIONAL
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AllParts Medical www.allpartsmedical.com • 866-507-4793
Injector Support and Service www.injectorsupport.com • 888-667-1062
Tri-Imaging Solutions www.triimaging.com • 855-401-4888
19
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61
P
46
P P P
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Contrast Media Injectors Injector Support and Service www.injectorsupport.com • 888-667-1062
Maull Biomedical Training www.maullbiomedicaltraining.com • 440-724-7511
43
P
Defibrillator Master Medical Equipment MMEMed.com • 866-468-9558
SakoMED sakomed.com • 949-529-8505
75
P P
17
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TECHNATION
83
multi-medix.com/us/ • 888-820-6003
Probo Medical probomedical.com/ • 317-494-7872
45 33
P P P P P P
Endoscopy
SPBS, Inc www.spbs.com/ • (800) 713-2396
www.cadmet.com • 800-543-7282
Healthmark Industries hmark.com • 800-521-6224
Multimedical Systems www.multimedicalsystems.com • 888-532-8056
65
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P
Fetal Monitoring Multimedical Systems
Mammo.com mammo.com •
www.multimedicalsystems.com • 888-532-8056
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General
USOC Bio-Medical Services
www.alcosales.com • 800-323-4282
Lexicon lexiconmedparts.com • 615-545-8587
SalesMaker Carts salesmakercarts.com • 800-821-4140
75
Innovatus Imaging www.innovatusimaging.com • 844-687-5100
Healthmark Industries hmark.com • 800-521-6224
HTM Jobs www.htmjobs.com • www.MedWrench.com • 866-989-7057
Webinar Wednesday
Adepto Medical
82
aiv-inc.com • 888-656-0755
AIV Avante Health Solutions avantehs.com •
BETA Biomed Services www.betabiomed.com/ • 800-315-7551
Infusion Pumps
SakoMED
Adepto Medical
sakomed.com • 949-529-8505
adeptomed.com • 833-423-3786
AIV aiv-inc.com • 888-656-0755
Elite Biomedical Solutions elitebiomedicalsolutions.com • 855-291-6701
Infusion Pump Repair www.infusionpumprepair.com • 855-477-8866
Master Medical Equipment MMEMed.com • 866-468-9558
Multimedical Systems www.multimedicalsystems.com • 888-532-8056
7 37 4
P P P P
48 75
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Infusion Therapy AIV aiv-inc.com • 888-656-0755
Elite Biomedical Solutions elitebiomedicalsolutions.com • 855-291-6702
Infusion Pump Repair www.infusionpumprepair.com • 855-477-8866 84
TECHNATION
MARCH 2022
Southeastern Biomedical, Inc sebiomedical.com/ • 828-396-6010
USOC Bio-Medical Services www.usocmedical.com • 855-888-8762
4
Interpower www.interpower.com • 800-662-2290
3
www.alcosales.com • 800-323-4282
P P
Elite Biomedical Solutions elitebiomedicalsolutions.com • 855-291-6701
Elite Biomedical Solutions elitebiomedicalsolutions.com • 855-291-6701
Engineering Services, KCS Inc
78
www.eng-services.com • 888-364-7782x11
A.M. Bickford
P
Cure Biomedical www.cure-us.com • 775.750.7070
37 66 77 17 31 3
87
P P P P
nuvolo.com • 844-468-8656
P P
www.truasset.com • 214-276-1280
P P
SPBS, Inc
P P
Surgical
P P P P P
P P
www.htmjobs.com •
HTM Jobs HERO herobiz.com • 800- 834-1122
Nuvolo TruAsset, LLC
www.spbs.com/ • (800) 713-2396
Cure Biomedical www.cure-us.com • 775.750.7070
Healthmark Industries hmark.com • 800-521-6224
75 4
P P
4
P P
6
P
adeptomed.com • 833-423-3786 aiv-inc.com • 888-656-0755
P
Elite Biomedical Solutions elitebiomedicalsolutions.com • 855-291-6701
Multimedical Systems 35
www.multimedicalsystems.com • 888-532-8056
78
www.usocmedical.com • 855-888-8762
49
A.M. Bickford
WWW.1TECHNATION.COM
P
USOC Bio-Medical Services
62 27
www.cbet.edu • 866-866-9027 www.ecri.org • 1-610-825-6000.
Probo Medical Tri-Imaging Solutions
P P
55
Cadmet www.cadmet.com • 800-543-7282
Tri-Imaging Solutions
37 4
AllParts Medical Avante Health Solutions avantehs.com •
Innovatus Imaging www.innovatusimaging.com • 844-687-5100
Multi Medix multi-medix.com/us/ • 888-820-6003
Probo Medical probomedical.com/ • 317-494-7872 www.mysummitimaging.com • 866-586-3744
SakoMED sakomed.com • 949-529-8505 www.spbs.com/ • (800) 713-2396
P P
AllParts Medical
25 3
P
P P
P P P
65
P
46
P P
19
P P
66
P P
8 45
P P
16
P P
33
P P
68
P P P
17
P P
Ventilators
P P P P
P
Ultrasound
SPBS, Inc 7
72
Tubes/Bulbs
Summit Imaging 35
P
46
www.mwimaging.com • 877-889-8223
82
11
33
probomedical.com/ • 317-494-7872
MW Imaging
Test Equipment www.ambickford.com • 800-795-3062
College of Biomedical Equipment Technology
www.allpartsmedical.com • 866-507-4793
5
P P
Training
www.triimaging.com • 855-401-4888
32
54 31
sebiomedical.com/ • 828-396-6010
www.triimaging.com • 855-401-4888
Telemetry Adepto Medical
www.seaward-groupusa.com • 813-886-2775
ECRI Institute
Sterilizers
AIV 35
P
Software www.medigate.io •
Recruiting
P P
www.ambickford.com • 800-795-3062
Medigate 7
4
Respiratory
60 73
66
Replacement Parts
8
Radiology
www.cure-us.com • 775.750.7070
48
ALCO Sales & Service Co.
Rigel Medical, Seaward Group Southeastern Biomedical, Inc
Repair
Power System Components
Cure Biomedical 37
elitebiomedicalsolutions.com • 855-291-6703
P P
Patient Monitoring
70
55
Elite Biomedical Solutions 40
Online Resource
adeptomed.com • 833-423-3786
Infection Control
avantehs.com •
MRI
www.1technation.com/webinars • 800-906-3373
ALCO Sales & Service Co.
P
Avante Health Solutions
Monitors/CRTs
MedWrench 25
82
Mammography
www.usocmedical.com • 855-888-8762
Cadmet
Rental/Leasing
P P
2,70
www.pronktech.com • 800-609-9802
37
TRAINING
Multi Medix
aiv-inc.com • 888-656-0755
Labratory
88
www.BCGroupStore.com • 314-638-3800
SERVICE
mammo.com •
AIV
BC Group International, Inc
PARTS
40
P
Info
Pronk Technologies, Inc.
Refurbish 82
AD PAGE
Mammo.com
70
www.spbs.com/ • (800) 713-2396
TRAINING
lexiconmedparts.com • 615-545-8587
P P
Info
SERVICE
Lexicon
66
Co m p a n y
P P
Co m p a n y PARTS
Avante Health Solutions
SPBS, Inc
SERVICE INDEX CONTINUED AD PAGE
IV Pumps
3
TRAINING
www.usocmedical.com • 855-888-8762
SERVICE
USOC Bio-Medical Services
Diagnostic Imaging avantehs.com •
Info
PARTS
TRAINING
SERVICE
PARTS
Info
AD PAGE
Co m p a n y
Co m p a n y
AD PAGE
SERVICE INDEX CONTINUED
82
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X-Ray www.allpartsmedical.com • 866-507-4793
Engineering Services, KCS Inc www.eng-services.com • 888-364-7782x11
Innovatus Imaging www.innovatusimaging.com • 844-687-5100
Tri-Imaging Solutions www.triimaging.com • 855-401-4888
19
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6
P
8 46
P P P
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EMPOWERING THE BIOMEDICAL/HTM PROFESSIONAL
MARCH 2022
TECHNATION
85
BREAKROOM
E
ach month, TechNation magazine will feature photos from throughout the industry on this page. Be sure to tag your posts with #HTMStrong and check the magazine each month to see which photos are included and what is happening in the HTM community.
Chris Issac, Clinical Engineer at Mar Sleeva Medicity Palai, India nado, MBA Anthony J. Coro chnology Te Area Clinical Permanente r ise Ka er ag Man
“We keep them educated for advanced patient comfort and safety with a better working atmosphere.” Joint Commission Another successful nTech at Downey Survey for Kaiser Cli Medical Center! at A2 Partner Masseur, s. Experienced y n o th n A on al Soluti Clinical Biomedic les, Service and a S l Medica ntative Represe Support
Suzane Candido Losacco, Clinica l Engineer, Brazil
One of Suzane’s goals is to improve communication amon g professionals involved in the process. This ensures the inclusion of the patie nt when marking the intervention site, invasi ve surgeries and procedures at the co rrect intervention site , as well as the correct procedure for the correct patient.
Interpower® North American hospital-grade replacement cords come with NEMA hospital-grade plugs bearing the “green dot.” They are continually tested to surpass UL 817 (18.2.4.1) and C22.2 No. 21-14 requirements for hospital-grade power cords and cord sets.
Our cords are manufactured in Lamoni and Oskaloosa, Iowa, U.S.A. All cords provide the end user with the correct North American connections to the local mains power—our cords are ready to use right out of the box.
@TechNationMag
/company/technation-magazine
U.S.A.-made Interpower Hospital-Grade replacement cords are manufactured well beyond minimum agency standards. Interpower NEMA 5-15, 5-20, 6-15, and 6-20 Hospital-Grade cords provide correct amperages and voltages for medical devices— portable CT Scanners, X-ray machines, medical-grade treadmills, and ECMO machines— essential machines demanding essential power.
Interpower cords and components are manufactured in accordance with Interpower’s product quality plan: hipot testing, continuity testing, ground testing, and inspections after each process.
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North American 5-15, 5-20, 6-15, 6-20 Hospital-Grade Replacement Cords
t and curren old school of ix m od “Had a go ay!!” PM list tod tech on the
• • • •
Value-Added Options available such as lengths, colors, packaging, & labeling Blanket and Scheduled Oders available Knowledgeable Customer Service No Minimum Orders
®
®
Order Online! www.interpower.com 86
TECHNATION
MARCH 2022
WWW.1TECHNATION.COM
INTERPOWER | P.O. Box 115 | 100 Interpower Ave | Oskaloosa, IA 52577 | Toll-Free Phone: (800) 662-2290 | Toll-Free Fax: (800) 645-5360 | info@interpower.com Business Hours: 7 a.m.–6 p.m. CST
ULT-2020 ULTRASOUND LEAKAGE TESTER The ULT-2020, designed and manufactured in USA by BC Biomedical, measures both the conductivity of the cleaning medium and the leakage current of the Ultrasound transducer.
Scan QR Code for information on our ULT 2000 Series, Transducer Adapters, Conductivity Probes and more.
ISO 9001:2015 Registered and Certified ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Accredited ISO 13485:2016 Certified
▶Test limits by Ultrasound transducer model ▶Meter mode for extended measurement periods ▶Simple PASS / FAIL mode - for non-technical users ▶Programmable meter source voltage & frequency
$1507
ULT-2020 is shown an ULT Adapter (Sold Separately), ULT-PC 15 ($503) and Soak Tray BC20-42200 ($411). See BCGroupStore.com for details.
+1 (314) 638.3800 (800) 242.8428 sales@bcgroupintl.com bcgroupstore.com