Derma Sciences has entered into a distribution agreement with Medline Industries (Medline) for sales of Bioguard Barrier Dressing into the acute care market. The sales of the product are expected to begin this month.
Medline said that along with over 800 sales representatives, the contract will allow it to place Bioguard products on its current traditional wound care group purchasing organisation agreements.
In addition to that Derma Sciences will be become a key new product introduction in 2010 for Medline, adding to its list of proprietary wound care products in the US.
Ed Quilty, CEO of Derma Sciences, said: “This is a key milestone for us as we continue to build our proprietary wound care franchise. While we will double our direct sales force in 2010 from 10 to 20 sales representatives, our sales efforts are focused on areas outside of acute care. The company is a perfect partner to help Derma Sciences maximise Bioguard sales.”
Jack Bowser, president of the division within Medline that is responsible for sales of its gauze-based line of products into acute care, said: “We view the antimicrobial gauze market as an enormous potential for us, and are excited to have negotiated for the rights to Bioguard in acute care. After 2008, hospitals are no longer reimbursed for costs associated with treating many infections that are acquired within their facilities. As such, there is a much greater focus on prevention.