10 Factors to Consider When Selecting Bariatric Equipment for Your Medical Practice

Today, it’s more important than ever for your practice to invest in bariatric equipment to make patient care more accessible.

According to recent studies, an estimated four in ten American adults are obese and obesity rates are continuing to rise nationwide. Having the right equipment to accommodate these patients can make a visit to your practice safer and more comfortable for everyone involved.

Of course, not all bariatric supplies are created equal. Read on for our best tips for selecting the best bariatric medical supplies for your medical practice.

What is Bariatric Equipment?

Simply put, bariatric equipment is specialized, durable medical equipment designed for obese or larger patients. Bariatric medical equipment is often more durable and designed with heavy-duty supports, increased weight capacities and wider widths than your average medical equipment.

Bariatric equipment can span everything from bariatric wheelchairs and transfer benches to hospital beds, phlebotomy chairs and treatment tables. And additional bariatric accessories like bariatric commodes, patient lifts and footstools can further improve the quality of care for bariatric patients.

Investing in the right bariatric equipment improves the safety of patients and caregivers across the board. It makes it easier for patients with bariatric mobility issues to receive the care they need and for staff to conduct exams or deliver the needed treatment or therapy. Providing patients with the appropriate furniture to utilize can also help reduce injuries for patients and staff.

In short, bariatric equipment creates a safer, more efficient cycle of care that benefits your patients, staff and bottom line.

Factors to Consider When Selecting Bariatric Equipment

With so many bariatric products out there, it can be difficult to determine which is best for your medical practice. Here are some of the most important considerations when choosing bariatric equipment.

Weight Capacity

First and foremost, it’s important to ensure your bariatric equipment has a higher weight limit. Look for bariatric medical equipment with a weight capacity of at least 600 pounds. At ExamTablesDirect, we offer bariatric power tables and mat platforms with weight capacities of up to 1000 lbs.

Cost

Bariatric equipment tends to be more expensive than your average medical supplies because of its size and additional heavy-duty support. However, the investment is worth it. It’s always important to know your budget to find bariatric supplies to meet your needs.

At ExamTablesDirect, we’re proud to offer the best selection of bariatric medical supplies, equipment, and more on the market so you’re sure to find something that meets the requirements of your practice and your budget.

Space Requirements

Since bariatric equipment is often larger than its average counterparts, it’s essential that you have the space for it. For instance, a large mat table can take up a lot of room in a small practice. Luckily, there are some ways to be savvy about your space.

Consider a Bariatric Wall Folding Therapy Mat Platform with a fold-away design to save floor space!

Durability

You want all of your medical furniture to be durable, but this is especially true when treating obese patients. Bariatric equipment should be designed to be durable with added legs, steel reinforced frames or H-braces.

Safety Features

Bariatric medical equipment should also be designed with safety features for both patients and caregivers. Restraints and non-slip surfaces are just a couple of features that can help prevent accidents and injuries.

Investing in bariatric equipment also inherently makes your practice safer. Since this equipment is more durable and created with features like wider seats it also creates a safer setting for staff and patients.

Ease-of-Use

You want your bariatric equipment to help make your practice more efficient. Look for power bariatric accessories and patient lifts that are easy for your staff to use. With bariatric power tables, your staff should be able to make height adjustments with the push of a button or easy-to-use foot control.

Adjustability

Speaking of height adjustments, you should always look for adjustable bariatric supplies. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 40.5% of adults with disabilities are also likely to be obese as well. They most often experience mobility issues that can make it difficult to walk, balance or climb stairs. Patient lift-friendly exam tables and bariatric power medical tables can make it easier for obese patients to safely receive treatment and for staff to access treatment sites.

Comfort

Patient comfort should be a priority for your practice. Choose bariatric medical equipment with comfortable padding, pillows and more that can create a more comfortable care experience.

Compatibility

Consider how your new bariatric equipment will work with your existing supplies and furniture. Make sure your equipment will easily integrate with what you already have.

Style

Finally, we can’t forget to mention style! Bariatric equipment doesn’t have to be an eyesore. At ExamsTableDirect, you can choose from various upholstery colors, including nylon-reinforced vinyl colors that are extra durable. You’ll never have to compromise style for functionality.

Ready to invest in new bariatric equipment for your medical practice? Browse our selection of bariatric equipment, supplies and tools today to help make your practice safer and more accessible. Learn more about our medical equipment delivery options!