A small gain in attendance at this year’s Medtrade in Atlanta has the event’s organizers hopeful that the much-challenged DME industry is now on the rebound.
The long-time educational conference and product/service expo took place Oct. 26-29 at the Georgia World Congress Center. On Nov. 4, Medtrade announced that the number of non-exhibitor attendees was up 1 percent versus last year.
In addition, Medtrade said registration for educational sessions held throughout the event was up 17 percent.
Organizers hope the positive numbers signal progress for a DME industry seriously challenged on many funding fronts, from Medicare’s competitive bidding program to multiple layers of audits that make it more difficult for DME suppliers to hold onto the payments they’re able to collect.
“Ultimately, Medtrade is a reflection of the industry, and the many challenges that providers faced were felt at the show in recent years,” said Group Show Director Kevin Gaffney in a news statement. “I hope these numbers represent a turning of the corner, with providers adjusting to the new realities and learning how to capitalize on opportunity.”
Gaffney said Medtrade officials were “pleased” with the modest increase in attendance, which occurred as DME suppliers continue to experience intense funding pressures. The next Medtrade group event is Medtrade Spring, Feb. 29-March 2 in Las Vegas. Next year’s Medtrade will again be at the Georgia World Congress Center, with a two-day exhibit hall Nov. 2-3.
