Lifts/Ramps/Transfers
VMI Courts the Cash Market
PHOENIX, Ariz. — In the wake of CMS' recently announced competitive bidding rates, HME providers are once again seeking to rely less on Medicare dollars. Converting vans to wheelchair accessible vehicles is one thriving business that is not entangled within the federal program, and officials at Vantage Mobility International (VMI) think it's worth a fresh look.
Consumer demand for such products, in fact, has led VMI to increase its workforce by 25 percent and hire additional people to support new projects at its Arizona manufacturing facility. The company is also capitalizing on the interest by expanding product selection.
Demand for Honda, Chrysler, GM and Ford-based wheelchair vans "continues to be strong," said Doug Eaton, VMI president and CEO. "While it was a tough year for many businesses, we've accelerated manufacturing to fulfill orders and we're adding specialists to help develop our next generation of vehicles."
So far this year, VMI has added 32 permanent employees and 18 contract workers in positions from production to skilled labor to quality inspectors and engineers. The company is also actively recruiting 40 people for the development of new products.
Known for its van conversions, platform lifts, wheelchair lifts and transfer seats, VMI produces lifts and conversion equipment primarily for occupied wheelchairs that carry people who spend virtually all their time in chairs. While this type of equipment may be relatively low volume, Eaton said providers who are looking will find ample opportunity to build cash business.
"Our modifications are not funded by Medicare," Eaton said. "I have always felt that when Medicare changes came to the DME business that providers would start looking more seriously at our model and see the growth that we have experienced, the margins we are creating and the customer satisfaction. Being super-reliant on Medicare is putting too many eggs in one basket."
