GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Supply chain issues are continuing to impact industries in waves.
The medical device industry, as well as area hospitals are struggling to supply people with products like canes, crutches, and scooters.
“There’s supply chain issues starting in the orient, coming this way. Especially with our scooters, the bath aid, so much in our industry the products are made overseas,” Independent Mobility Plus store owner Evan Parker said.
Time delays, unavailable products, and significant surcharges are just a few of the problems the Independent Mobility store faces.
Parker tells FOX 11 they’ve also seen significant delays in the delivery of power chairs and scooters, as well as associated parts.
“When somebody’s equipment is not working, for instance maybe a complex wheelchair, somebody who’s confined to a chair, and we’re having difficulties getting the products to keep that chair in service but trying to be creative, we may have another new unit in stock, we may have to take a part off of that just to keep them up and running.”
Area hospitals are also experiencing issues.
In a statement from Bellin Health, a spokesperson says:
“Bellin Health continues to encounter supply shortages in certain areas — this includes equipment such as crutches, walkers, canes and other rehabilitation products. The health system continues to manage these shortages to meet our patients’ needs and ensure they experience no issues with their care.”
So far, Independent Mobility says its been able to supply items like walkers, canes, and crutches.
“When we find those products, we do see shortages, we do see products unavailable. But we will order typically in a little bit larger quantities trying to span those gaps,” Parker said.
Parker says they’ve also had to adjust their ordering habits.
“They’re different, we have to order well ahead of what we used to. It’s no longer a seven-day window to get product. It now may be two, or three, or four months.”
Parker encourages customers to continue to be patient.
Bellin Health says it’s working with its vendors and clinical partners to ensure it can provide patients with what they need.
