Have no fear. The magazine you know and love has not gone away. (Admit it, you were panicking.) Instead, the 19th year of Home Health Care Dealer/Provider will say good-bye to its venerable name in favor of the catchier HME Today. Why? Well, it's always been a mouthful to be sure, and the evolution of DME/HME reflects a mentality that "dealer" does not fit. Furthermore, we like the way "Today" brings us into the present with a full recognition that times are changing fast and excellent information is the way to stay ahead.
Along with a new name comes a new focus on "tools and tactics" for success. You'll find these words in our new tagline on the cover, and they are words we take seriously.
Starting in the February 2007 issue, you will also find distinct categories that will appear in each and every issue. Those categories are: accreditation; CPAP/sleep; diabetes; rehab/mobility; respiratory; and software.
Meanwhile, we will not neglect the other myriad issues you care about such as competitive bidding, marketing tips, and retail sales.
Oh, and about competitive bidding—we're still waiting for the final rule as of press time. As I mentioned last month, these dilemmas are precisely why we have moved breaking news exclusively to the Top News section on the home page. If the rule is out as you read this, you can get all the latest info there.
But first things first—the annual buyer's guide awaits your attention. You and the manufacturers represented in this issue know that those oft-mentioned Baby Boomers are going to need medical equipment. And no matter how the madness of competitive bidding shakes out, those Boomers are going to want good stuff.
As the new year dawns, now is the perfect time to evaluate your inventory and reconsider adding that new gadget. Fortunately, this issue can help you do just that. Keep it handy all year long and give those manufacturers a call when the time is right. If you happen to lose the print issue, just check our online buyer's guide.
Greg Thompson