However, both sides have vastly different guidelines that will pre-empt a settlement in the near future. European regulations require that devices perform according to product specifications. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration insists on documentation that proves that products have the ability to improve the health of the patient. Baby Boomers are Aging. The aging baby boomer population should be a big bonanza for the health device and supply industry.
Medical devices have a tendency to be used more by the elderly in disproportionate amounts.
Another factor is the increase in the life expectancy of the U.S population. Women have an average life expectancy of 78 years while men have a life expectancy of approximately 69 years. However, people will not be free from health problems because they engage in unhealthy lifestyles such as alcohol and drug abuse, obesity, poor diet, smoking, and poor dieting. Managed Care Changes. Medical device companies must adapt to the sweeping changes in the managed care industry.