Hospitals and group purchasing organizations (GPOs) have been trying for over twenty-five years to have a sole source orthopedic implant supplier for economic reasons. Huge corporations such as Zimmer, Stryker (Howmedica) and Biomet have pitched sole source proposals. Here is the problem: the orhopedic surgeons have a comfort level and a success rate with certain companies. One company may have the best hip, another the best knee, and yet another the best revision ststem. The surgeons also have certain allegiances with the manufacturers based on long term reationships and other factors. The result is that the surgeons rule and multiple systems are used.
The fact that The Villages Hospital has a sole source agreement with Exactech, a minor player in the industry, is incredible. Perhaps their proximity (Gainesville) played in the decision. Who knows? But what this says is that the orthopedic surgeons that OK'd this are weak and to be avoided. Exactech's annual sales don't approach Zimmer's R and D budget. I guarantee that the better orthopods will find a way to have their implants brought in on a case by case basis or they will do their cases at another hospital.
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