2019 Merit Garden Accomplishments
When Merit Medical Founder and CEO Fred Lampropoulos established the Merit Garden at our Salt Lake City global headquarters in 2016, he envisioned a place that improves employee health, boosts morale, and ensures team members have access to fresh and nutritional food. Since then, it has also become a place where sustainability and philanthropy intersect.
Each year, the Merit Garden Program undertakes a number of initiatives designed to benefit employee and community well-being. This harvest season, we compiled garden accomplishments into one exciting video. Join us as we take a look back.
FARM-TO-TABLE PROGRESS
For the past year, gardening at Merit has become an important part of the company’s collective sustainability plan to feed employees farm-to-table style with foods grown right on the premises, supplying healthier meals that contribute less to Merit’s overall carbon footprint.
As society becomes more environmentally conscious, the phrases “farm-to-table” or “farm-to-fork” seem to be popping up everywhere. Restaurants, school cafeterias, and now more and more corporate eating establishments are joining the movement that supports food systems, from production to consumption, that better the environmental, social, economic, and nutritional health of a particular place or community.1
“We sat down with the Merit Café team and estimated how much produce the café uses per week and then calculated how many plants we would need to at least cover a percentage of that produce,” says Laura Flower, Merit Garden Program Coordinator.
From late July to early October, the Merit Garden Program team harvests two to three times each week and delivers the produce to the Merit Café based on planned quantity goals. In 2019, 1,370 lb of produce from the Merit Garden was grown and used for healthy meals for our employees.
“By using our own produce, we lowered the amount we’d normally have to order from our food supplier, which saved money and was better quality, too,” says Lindy Whitley, Sous Chef at Merit Medical. “We used Merit Garden produce daily as part of an entrée or in soups. We’d turn tomatoes into fresh salsa. We also used the produce to make fresh veggie cups and to stock the salad bar. It feels good being able to cook with the best ingredients.”
Merit’s Chief Wellness Officer and on-site nutritionist have also joined the program, working with the Merit Café team to provide menu options that are both healthy and appealing. Home-grown garden items are clearly labeled with a Merit Garden sticker, so employees can easily identify them.
Because produce is harvested at peak maturity, it’s more nutritious than food trucked in from far away. Nutrients begin to break down as soon as a vegetable or fruit is harvested and continues to do so until the food is eaten.2 Throw in lengthy transit times, time spent on store display, and then in-home storage, and the nutrient levels of foods consumers buy can diminish significantly.3
What’s more, the United States Environmental Protection Agency reports that transportation is one of the primary sources of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States, making up 28.9% in 2017.4 Emissions from transportation, they write, largely come from burning fossil fuel for our cars, trucks, ships, trains, and planes.4
“Only two percent of Utah’s vegetables and three percent of fruits are actually grown within the state,” Ms. Flower says. “Adding this component to our garden has allowed us to invite employees to participate in urban agriculture, an effective way to keep food local and sustainable while reinvigorating the community and economy.”
LOOKING FORWARD
With one year under their belt, the Merit Garden and Merit Café teams are now fine-tuning the program by growing more of what the kitchen needs and planting a greater diversity of produce—in essence, dedicating every last inch of garden space to feeding people and striving for zero food loss.
New this season, the Merit Garden Program team has dedicated a portion of growing space to a U-Pick section, where employees can exchange a bit of weeding for a basket of produce. “It allows employees who do not have time for a garden box to still enjoy the garden and receive free produce in exchange for weeding,” Ms. Flower says.
This year, there were more than 200 visits to the U-Pick Garden, with more than 1,100 lb of produce taken home by employees to share with family and friends. “We’re excited to make the garden more accessible to the greatest number of people here at Merit,” Ms. Flower says.
FEEDING THE COMMUNITY
With a zero food-loss policy, leftover produce isn’t ever a problem. “We donate surplus produce to a local mobile farm stand that helps senior centers and feeds the larger community,” Ms. Flower continues. This year, 400 lb of produce was donated to local low-income senior centers.
In addition, 120 lb of significantly damaged or inedible produce was donated to a local animal rescue facility to help feed resident farm animals.
“We’re hoping these practices all will have a great ripple effect,” Ms. Flower says.
HELPING FELLOW EMPLOYEES
Plant sales occur throughout the year at Merit. These include a summer and autumn sale as well as one dedicated to holiday poinsettias. All proceeds from these sales and other fundraising opportunities benefit Merit’s Candy Cane Program, which helps employees in need during the holiday season. So far this year, we’ve raised $8,800 with a goal of reaching nearly $10,000 by the end of 2019.
OTHER NOTEWORTHY MERIT GARDEN PROGRAM ACCOMPLISHMENTS
- 796 Total Merit Gardeners | Since its start in 2016, the Merit Garden has had a total of 796 employees participate, with 38% returning each year and 62% new to the garden. Out of the approximately 2,000 employees at Merit Salt Lake City, 25% of employees have taken advantage of this benefit.
- 20 Workshops/Cooking Classes Offered | The Merit Garden Program offers monthly educational gardening workshops and cooking classes to employees. Topics include fruit tree pruning, patio gardening, food preservation techniques, healthy cooking skills, and more. In 2019, we hosted nearly 20 workshops and cooking classes.
- 80 Flower Arrangements Prepared | The Merit Garden Program also grows many decorative plants for employees to enjoy. In 2019, 80 flower arrangements were prepared for employees to purchase and put in their offices, take home, and give as gifts.
- 700 Plants Grown for Campus Flower Beds | Hundreds of plants are grown each year to help keep our Salt Lake City facility beautiful. This year, the Merit Garden Program grew 700 plants specifically for campus flowerbeds.
- 7,500 Plants Grown in the Greenhouse | All of the plants at the Merit Garden start in the on-site, state-of-the-art greenhouse. From produce for employees and senior centers to plants for our annual sales, 7,500 plants were grown in the Merit greenhouse this year.
The Merit Garden Program is one more way we put employee health and happiness first. Visit our Employee Wellness, Health & Safety page to learn more about how we care for our team.
REFERENCES
- Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey. (n.d.). From farm to fork. Retrieved from https://njaes.rutgers.edu/food-nutrition-health/farm-to-fork.php
- Cooperative Extension Service, University of Kentucky College of Agriculture. (2000). Retrieved from http://www2.ca.uky.edu/hes/fcs/factshts/FN-SSB.006.PDF
- Barrett, D. M. (n.d.). Maximizing the nutritional value of fruits and vegetables. Retrieved from http://www.fruitandvegetable.ucdavis.edu/files/197179.pdf
- United States Environmental Protection Agency. (n.d.). Sources of greenhouse gas emissions. Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/ghgemissions/sources-greenhouse-gas-emissions
Merit Medical Employees Featured on KSL TV (NBC) for Saving Coworker’s Life
Three Merit Medical employees were featured recently on KSL TV (NBC) for responding to the sudden cardiac arrest of a fellow coworker. Debra Pressley, Teresa Salazar, and Andrew Williamson performed Hands-Only CPR and used an automated external defibrillator, or AED, to revive Jack Rakes and save his life.
According to the American Heart Association, when a person has a cardiac arrest, survival depends on receiving immediate CPR, yet only about 46% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest victims receive CPR from a bystander.1 What’s more, a person who suffers a cardiac arrest in public has more than twice the chance of surviving if a bystander steps in to restart the heart with an AED device before an emergency crew arrives.2 Sadly, about 90% of people who experience an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest die.1
“It was just a normal day, everybody said I was my normal self,” Rakes told KSL TV, referring to the incident. “There was no warning. I was just gone in an instant.”
“I heard this sound that you just don’t normally hear, and it had been his head hitting the back of the table,” Salazar added.
“He was gray, he was going gray,” Pressley recalled in the KSL TV interview.
In response to an emergency alarm, Williamson immediately rallied his coworkers to help. “It went, ‘Code blue, we need to get going. Let’s go! Let’s go!’” he said.
Watch the full KSL TV interview here.
To be prepared for such an emergency and keep employees safe, Merit Salt Lake City conducts on-site training in Hands-Only CPR and the use of an AED device. More than half of Merit’s workforce in Salt Lake, approximately 1,100 employees, signed up for trainings this past spring. To ensure emergency device accessibility, AED’s are located throughout Merit’s Utah facility, and after the incident, Merit added an additional eight AEDs.
In addition to telling their stories on KSL TV, Pressley, Salazar, and Williamson received the American Heart Association’s Heartsaver Award, a recognition given to people who perform the heroic act of CPR. The employees were also honored at a South Jordan City Council meeting.
“Oftentimes people don’t think that they need to learn CPR,” said Laura Western, Executive Director of the American Heart Association Utah Division, at the South Jordan City Council meeting. “But this is a case where the activation was quick, and the folks at Merit were trained. Their immediate reaction saved this man’s life.”
“I was lucky enough to have an AED and three amazing heroes to help me,” said Rakes at the meeting. “My example shows how unpredictable and sudden cardiac arrest can be. For myself and others, I am grateful that I work for a company, Merit Medical, and live in a city, South Jordan, that care about this issue.”
The South Jordan Fire Department also honored the three employees, and the city of South Jordan issued a proclamation, naming a day in recognition of their heroic act.
REFERENCES
- American Heart Association. (2019). CPR facts and stats. Retrieved from https://cpr.heart.org/AHAECC/CPRAndECC/AboutCPRECC/CPRFactsAndStats/UCM_475748_CPR-Facts-and-Stats.jsp
- American Heart Association. (2018 Feb 26). Bystander use of defibrillators can dramatically boost survival of cardiac arrest patients. Retrieved from https://news.heart.org/bystander-use-defibrillators-can-dramatically-boost-survival-cardiac-arrest-patients/
Merit Medical Receives UMA 2019 Manufacturer of the Year Award
Merit Medical is the proud recipient of the Utah Manufacturers Association (UMA) 2019 Manufacturer of the Year Award, recognizing manufacturing companies that demonstrate expertise and outstanding business practices as well as contribute to the communities where they do business.
We were judged on a number of criteria, including operational performance and best practices, economic achievement, workplace safety, community and state involvement and outreach, and fidelity to the principles of free enterprise.
Merit Founder and CEO Fred Lampropoulos attributes the company’s success to one thing. “It’s all about the people,” Lampropoulos told UMA in an interview. “You need a vision and a purpose. I think we have those things, but it’s all about the people.”
More than thirty years ago, we started our journey in South Jordan, Utah, offering one commercial product: a safer and stronger disposable syringe. Since then, we have continued this legacy of innovation, developing best-in-class devices and therapies. Although we have expanded our presence around the globe, employing approximately 6,600 people worldwide — our global headquarters remains in South Jordan.
“We’re here because it’s the best place to be,” Lampropoulos said. “With our universities, our workforce, and the international flavor of Utah, it’s a great place to live and to do business.”
The UMA is the leading trade association for the manufacturing community in the state of Utah. Founded in 1905, it has been the resource organization where industry leaders come together to solve relevant issues facing the local manufacturing industry.
“We’re so grateful for the Utah Manufacturers Association, for the interest it takes in businesses, and how it guides us and represents us,” Lampropoulos said. “We appreciate that.”
Read the press release for the full list of UMA 2019 Manufacturer of the Year Award recipients.
Neil Peterson — Merit Medical
Vice President, Operations
2019 Award Recipient
Manufacturer of the Year
For Nearly Two Decades, Merit Compression Devices Deliver Quality and Confidence
Merit Medical® has been innovating and delivering quality compression devices for nearly two decades. We launched our first hemostasis band in 2000, and since then it has been our goal to innovate and improve upon subsequent products, ensuring our customers finish each diagnostic and interventional procedure with confidence. Today we have a broad suite of hemostasis devices for each access site, including radial/ulnar, distal radial, and femoral. The PreludeSYNC EVO™, PreludeSYNC DISTAL™, and SafeGuard® are three such products, premium compression devices that help to achieve controlled hemostasis accurately, quickly, and comfortably.
PreludeSYNC EVO for Radial/Ulnar Artery Compression
To assist in gaining and maintaining hemostasis of the radial/ulnar artery following catheterization procedures, this year we launched the PreludeSYNC EVO, our latest compression device designed to elevate both the operator and patient experience through clarity, safety, and comfort. A clear balloon and curved backer plate provide optimal visualization of the puncture site, facilitating easy placement. It also features a new Slip-n-Lock™ Cap for safe and easy inflation and deflation. Available in two sizes (24 cm and 29 cm), the soft, adjustable band of the PreludeSYNC EVO fits securely and comfortably around a patient’s wrist.
Explore all the ways we have evolved achieving patent hemostasis with the PreludeSYNC EVO.
PreludeSYNC DISTAL for Distal Radial Artery Compression
Due to a growing trend of physicians performing distal radial access procedures, we combined a unique band configuration with the comfort and efficacy of the PreludeSYNC™ Radial Compression Device and created the PreludeSYNC DISTAL, the first-ever compression device for distal radial access sites. For a secure and comfortable fit, the PreludeSYNC DISTAL is designed with a material that provides adjustable placement and includes extension bands for larger hands if needed. It is also available in right and left hand devices. A clear balloon provides focused compression for up to 10 mL of air, and a large window area offers unobstructed site visibility that assists placement of the balloon accurately over the access site.
Learn more about the PreludeSYNC DISTAL and its many design features.
SafeGuard for Femoral Artery Compression
The SafeGuard is our original pressure-assisted device for femoral access sites and continues to be a trusted hemostasis band among our customers. Clinical trial data show the 24 cm SafeGuard reduces active compression time1 and has a lower complication rate1 versus manual compression.2 From recovery to positioning and transport, the SafeGuard provides consistent pressure throughout the patient care process. It also facilitates site assessment through a clear window without removing the device. Patients who have undergone a catheterization procedure also prefer SafeGuard, with 87% reporting it “much more comfortable” than any previous procedure.1 Given these advantages, SafeGuard use can reduce demands on staff, maximize valuable resources, and enhance patient comfort.
Discover more SafeGuard clinical benefits.
Whether you choose radial/ulnar, distal radial, or femoral access, we offer an extensive portfolio with many pathways to vascular hemostasis. Our field sales and clinical support teams are trained and ready to meet your facility’s patient hemostasis needs. With a strong history of hemostasis product offerings, you can feel confident in finishing each interventional procedure with a Merit Medical compression device.
To learn more about our compression devices, visit our diverse Hemostasis Product Portfolio.
REFERENCES:
1. Data on file.
2. Sanborn, T. A. (2004). Reduced vascular complications after percutaneous coronary interventions with a nonmechanical suture device: Results from the randomized RACE study (manual compression subset). Catheter Cardiovasc Interv, Mar;61(3):327–332.
Merit Medical Featured in ‘Medical Design & Outsourcing’ Big 100 List
The September 2019 Medical Design & Outsourcing Big 100 list is out, and Merit Medical is thrilled to be featured as one of Medtech’s 100 Largest Players. The annual issue provides a look at the world’s largest medtech operations and ranks them according to a number of categories. Here’s how we did.
#66 Largest Medical Device Company
For the fiscal year ending in December 2018, Merit was ranked as the 66th largest medical device company in the world based on revenue generated, up eight spots from 74th place the previous year.
#39 Top R&D Spender
Merit’s commitment to excellence shone through as we ranked globally in 39th place for the percentage of revenue invested in research and development (R&D). Merit operates its R&D in-house, with multiple facilities worldwide working together simultaneously to create new products and product lines as well as to enhance existing ones. This dedication to continual improvement has resulted in steady company growth, which in turn provides more funds for R&D. Merit currently dedicates 6.7% of every sales dollar to R&D. In the same category, we also ranked 45th in the world for R&D total spend.
#59 Revenue per Employee
Average revenue per employee is one way to measure company efficiency. With growth in both employee number and revenue generated, Merit experienced a year-over-year increase of 13.2% and took the 59th spot.
It’s an honor to place in this year’s Medical Design & Outsourcing Big 100 list. Not only does it show Merit’s high level of fiscal responsibility and what we’re achieving as a company, it also emphasizes our commitment to our customers through leading technologies and our dedication to the patient communities we serve.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2019
This year we exceeded our goals and efforts to recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month!
First, we exceeded our donation goal to Breastcancer.org and are pleased to announced a $32,000 donation to BreastCancer.org!
Merit’s facilities and employees around the world all participated enthusiastically in charitable awareness events, education efforts, and recognition activities, which encouraged employee engagement and raised awareness in our communities. In total, 121 photos were shared with us from employees around the world!
Please join us in celebrating a successful Breast Cancer Awareness month with a look back at the photos and memories from the month.
BREAST CANCER “FIGHT CLUB” WALL AT MERIT HQ
The Breast Cancer “Fight Club” wall at our Salt Lake City, UT HQ, was a place to acknowledge the bravery it takes to battle breast cancer and honored our sisters, mothers, daughters, friends, and even ourselves. We had one wall in each of two buildings and they filled up quickly throughout the month. It’s amazing to see how many people are affected by breast cancer.
Thanks for supporting #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth in Maastricht. Great job on the displays!
Great job, Aliso Viejo, for supporting #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth by painting pumpkins together and wearing your pink!
Way to go Melbourne on holding a Pot Luck Fundraiser to raise money for BCNA. It looks like you had a great time with amazing food and heard from a firsthand survivor on treatment and debunking common myths.
In honor of #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth, our team at Merit China held an employee breast health training that covered the importance of early detection, screening and diagnosis, and treatment options. Keep up the great work, Merit China!
Our South Jordan team, which began with three Merit employees, raised $800.00 in two weeks. Amazing job!!
Globally, #breastcancer represents 1 in 4 of all cancers in women. To honor #BCAM, our Melbourne team held a “Pink-Inspired” tea with donations made to Breast Cancer Network Australia. Employees received updates on breast cancer research, treatment, and prevention.
All over the globe, our team is coming together to honor #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth. Here’s Merit Brazil showing their support!
During #PinkOctober, our teams worldwide are showing their support for #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth. Looking good, Merit Singapore!
Merit Tijuana standing together in the fight against #breastcancer!
Our Merit South Africa team joined more than 20,000 people this past weekend in the 5K Avon Justine iThemba Walkathon in Johannesburg to support the fight against #breastcancer!
Our Merit Medical Coatings team in Venlo enjoyed “roze koeken” (pink cakes) and tested their knowledge with a “Pink Quiz” to support #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth!
Here’s our Prelude IDeal™ evening shift showing their support for #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth!
Account Executive Jason Waltz took his passion for #breastcancerawareness to Rochester, NY, where he rode in the Go PINK! 50-mi Ride and Run. Way to go, Jason! #BCAM
Hey, Richmond! Way to show your support wearing the pink boas!!
#Pinkout for #breastcancer with Merit South Jordan’s Cleanroom Crew! We love how you’re showing your support!
Happy Breast Cancer Awareness Month from all of our friends at Merit Paris! Looking Good!
Hello, Merit Medical South Africa!! You are so inspiring.
Merit South Africa is showing their support by delivering educational health talks, contributing funds to provide community breast cancer screening services, and more!
Tijuana has taken Breast Cancer Awareness Month to the next level by lighting the building up in pink and recognizing their breast cancer survivors. Great job, Tijuana!!
The South Jordan Campus showed up to listen to our Chief Wellness Officer speak on “Breast Cancer Detection and Prevention” on Pink Out Thursday. If you missed out we’ll have a recap video soon.
Proud in pink! Here’s how some of our employees at Merit Tijuana are supporting Breast Cancer Awareness month.
We’re raising the flag at Merit Medical headquarters in Salt Lake City, UT, in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
One of Merit’s South Jordan employees participating in the MORE THAN PINK Walk™ this year with her children.
Showing Merit’s support for Breast Cancer Awareness at home — and on the road.
He’s all in! Jason, a Merit Medical SCOUT® rep, was out flying the colors and raising money at the Syracuse Ride for a Cure 50-mile ride this weekend.
Merit Medical South Jordan employees participating in the Susan G. Komen MORE THAN PINK Walk™, helping to raise money to reduce deaths by breast cancer.
Each year in October, organizations, companies, and people around the world demonstrate their support for breast cancer, the most common cancer in women worldwide, and work to raise awareness about treatments and detection as part of International Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM).
Merit Medical, with a long-standing commitment to women’s health and products that support the diagnosis and treatment of early-stage breast cancer, enjoys taking time in October to raise awareness in the community as well as among our employees.
In September, we announced a partnership with Breastcancer.org, an organization that shares Merit’s commitment to reducing the burden of breast cancer and to providing information and choices, so women can make the most informed choices. For the months of September and October, we are committed to donating $1,000 for each SCOUT® console purchased worldwide to Breastcancer.org.
Follow our journey of commitment throughout the month on this page!
MEET MERIT’S BREAST CANCER PRODUCTS
Merit Medical Global Headquarters Wins ‘Utah Business’ 2019 Green Business Award
Merit Medical’s global headquarters in Salt Lake City, UT, received the Utah Business 2019 Green Business Award, a recognition that highlights organizations and individuals that have made an effort to promote sustainability within the Utah community. We specifically won for our waste and recycling efforts and were honored at an awards luncheon on October 24th. Alisha Jerauld, Vice President, Environment, Social & Governance, attended the event to accept the award on behalf of the company.
REDUCING PLASTIC MOLDING WASTE
Reducing the amount of plastic molding waste we generate is one way we implement environmentally sustainable practices into our manufacturing processes. In addition to an extensive plastic molding-recycling program, our global headquarters also partners with companies that can use our plastic waste. In 2018, we recycled 558,787 lb of plastic molding waste. Our team is also mindful of the resources is takes to produce plastic. As new molds are purchased for plastic parts, we’ve transitioned to hot runner molds designed to produce only what’s needed, minimizing plastic waste.
REDUCING PLASTIC FILM AND FOIL
Another green initiative recognized was our program to reduce plastic film thickness and foil used in kits and packs packaging. Merit produces upwards of 15 million kits and packs per year. Our Salt Lake City team was able to reduce plastic film thickness and foil packaging material use by 30.65 tons in 2018 without compromising quality.
MERIT SMART SHIPPING™
Also in 2018, packaging engineering created Merit Smart Shipping, a significant program designed to ship products in their own packaging. By eliminating the need for additional materials, such as plastic bubble wrap and boxes, Merit Smart Shipping helps to reduce both company and customer waste. Last year the program saved 57 tons of brown corrugated box material.
ADDITIONAL GREEN EFFORTS
The Green Business Award also took into consideration our efforts to transition all facilities worldwide from paper to electronic work orders, a program that greatly reduces the amount of paper and plastic we use. By 2022, all Merit work orders will be electronic, decreasing paper usage by 2.8 million pieces and 20,000 plastic sleeves annually.
In addition to reducing and recycling hard goods, this year our team at Salt Lake City designed a water recycling system that allows the company to use secondary-water in order to reduce potable water consumption. Instead of city water, the new system filters and pumps secondary water through an irrigation system, serving as a source for everything but human use. Because our headquarters is the largest of our facilities and is located in the dry climate of Utah, this water recycling system has helped us to conserve a very limited resource.
We’re honored to be one of Utah Business 2019 Green Business Award recipients. Visit our Environmental Sustainability page to explore more programs and accomplishments.
See the full list of Utah Business 2019 Green Business Award winners.
Merit Recognizes Infection Prevention Week with a Strong History of Keeping Clinicians and Patients Safe
Today marks the start of International Infection Prevention Week, a worldwide awareness event aimed at highlighting ways to stop the spread of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). At any given time, about one in 25 inpatients have an infection related to hospital care.1 HAIs may lead to sepsis or even death,2 prompting healthcare providers to take preventative action to protect patients. Through a number of safety and infection prevention products and education programs, Merit Medical strives to make the healthcare setting safer for patients and healthcare professionals.
In 1987 Merit was built on a safety product: a safer and stronger disposable syringe. Over the past 32 years, we’ve continued this legacy of innovation, developing best-in-class safety and infection prevention devices that benefit patients, healthcare professionals, and overall health systems.
Many HAIs can be prevented with proper infection prevention practices. We’re pleased to offer products and training programs that can help hospitals reduce their risk.
DualCap® Disinfection & Protection System
A shining star of our commitment to infection prevention is the DualCap® Disinfection & Protection System, a unique disinfecting cap system for use on both the male luer connector at the end of the IV tubing and the needle-free valve. Clinical evidence shows that the male luer connector can become contaminated up to 37% and the needle-free valve up to 24%, routinely causing vascular device cross-contamination.3
The DualCap — which was designed by nurses — helps to solve these problems via two color-coded, easy-to-grasp caps with built-in disinfecting sponges saturated with 70% isopropyl alcohol. Just twist onto the male luer connector and needle-free valve to disinfect and protect until access is required. Within 30 seconds, the DualCap not only disinfects but also provides a physical barrier to contamination for up to 7 days.4*
Learn more about how the DualCap helps to protect patients.
Safety Products
Other products designed to keep clinicians and patients safe include quick and safe fluid waste elimination systems, such as the BackStop®, MiniStop®, BackStop+™, and MiniStop+™. Our temporary sharps holders, the ShortStop® and ShortStop Advantage®, are intuitively designed to prevent sharps injuries. And PAL™ – Pen and Labels and Medallion® Syringes streamline medication labeling, helping to facilitate compliance with national safety goals.
Explore all of Merit’s Safety & Waste Management and Infection Prevention products.
Educational Opportunities
We also offer the Think Safety and Infection Prevention program, a series of educational opportunities designed to help clinicians learn about techniques, tools, and methods that can improve patient outcomes and prevent HAIs as well as costly medical errors. Attendees can participate in live and recorded webinars and educational events throughout the year and learn the latest patient and clinician safety and infection prevention.
Merit is happy to recognize International Infection Prevention Week and be your partner in keeping hospitals and healthcare settings safe.
REFERENCES
1. Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. (2019 Oct 7). Health care-associated infections. Retrieved from https://health.gov/hcq/prevent-hai.asp
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2017 Dec 4). Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/winnablebattles/report/HAIs.html
3. Lopansri BK, et al. Does the Partner Matter? (SHEA 2011, Paper 4539).
4. DualCap® IV Pole StripsTM Disinfectant Caps for Male Luers and Luer Access Valves Instructions for Use. Catheter Connections.
* Under normal conditions if not removed
Merit Medical HQ in Salt Lake City a Host Site for the Mountain West Shingo Study Tour
The Shingo Institute selected Merit Medical’s HQ in Salt Lake City, UT, as one of the model facilities to tour during its Mountain West Shingo Study Tour. The annual event provides participants with the opportunity to visit and learn from world-class manufacturing facilities and Shingo Prize recipients for a first-hand look at facilities, cultures, and processes that demonstrate operational excellence. The sold-out event took place last week, September 17–19.
Participants of the Mountain West Shingo Study Tour visited Merit Salt Lake City and experienced how the facility operates with a lean business model, applies best practices, and thrives on a culture of continuous improvement. To achieve these successes, Merit Salt Lake City practices a set of principles developed by the Shingo Institute, a division of the Jon M. Huntsman School of Business at Utah State University.
Shingo principles, as part of a larger Shingo Model™, are designed to guide organizations toward operational excellence. Tenets include assuring quality at the source, leading with humility, creating value for the customer, and more. Attending the tour gave participants a deeper understanding of these principles, so they could use them to better their own organizations. Participants also had time to ask questions and network with peers and Shingo leadership.
In addition to helping organizations continually improve, the Shingo Institute also recognizes those that have catalyzed lean transformations on their own by awarding its globally distinguished Shingo Prize.
Earlier this year, Merit Tijuana proudly received the Shingo Prize for demonstrating an exceptional culture that fosters continuous improvement and excellence. Similar to the Tijuana facility, Merit Salt Lake City also uses the Shingo Model as a guide, thereby offering tour participants an in-depth example of how Shingo principles apply within the facility, helping them to envision these standards implemented at other organizations.
In addition to Salt Lake City and northern Utah, annual Shingo Study Tours take place in the Northeast (Boston), Minneapolis/St. Paul, Ireland, and Japan, benefiting organizations the world over.
It was an honor to host the group during this year’s Mountain West Shingo Study Tour. As part of a global community that supports one another, we look forward to hearing of Shingo tour participant successes and continually learning from each other as we all work toward practicing better business.
Learn more about ways our worldwide facilities achieve operational excellence.
AEROmini® Now Offers Smallest Self-Expanding Nitinol Stents with Through-the-Scope Options
Merit Medical is committed to finding new ways to approach challenging procedures. We accomplish this by transforming customer needs into innovative products that improve the lives of patients. Applying this approach, our Merit Medical Endotek® team—a division committed to next-generation, non-vascular stent technology—sought out valuable physician feedback and used it to develop new and improved AEROmini Tracheobronchial Stents. This exciting line extension offers the smallest self-expanding nitinol stents on the market. With both through-the-scope and over-the-wire deployment options, interventional pulmonologists and surgeons can reach small, distal airways deep within the lung that were previously considered untreatable.
AEROmini Tracheobronchial Stents are indicated for use in the treatment of tracheobronchial strictures produced by malignant neoplasms. Now with through-the-scope capabilities, physicians can deploy AEROmini stents through a 2.8 mm or larger working channel of a therapeutic bronchoscope with direct visualization of the affected area without the need for fluoroscopy. The new through-the-scope AEROmini stents are available in 6-mm diameter and 10-mm and 15-mm lengths, allowing physicians to reach tortuous distal airways with control and precision.
In addition to through-the-scope deployment, the new AEROmini line extension offers smaller, over-the-wire stents specifically designed for physicians treating patients with shorter strictures or those who insist on accurate stent placement without occluding adjacent airways. Available in 8-mm through 14-mm diameters and a 10-mm length, over-the-wire AEROmini stents expand the options for difficult strictures.
Customers can expect the same trusted features and benefits from the new line extension as they have from original AERO® and AEROmini stents. For example, the AERO technology has virtually no foreshortening or elongation of the stents. All stents are fully covered and hydrophilically coated to prevent ingrowth and mucus plugging. Proprietary anti-migration struts decrease stent migration without the potential complications associated with tissue ingrowth. In addition, the through-the-scope suture knot and over-the-wire purse string design aid in stent repositioning and removal.
For over a decade, Merit Medical Endotek has been committed to innovating for the pulmonary space. By listening to our customers, we consistently dedicate our internal research and development team to delivering innovative products that expand treatment options available to physicians and that can ultimately lead to better patient outcomes. With the new AEROmini line extension, we have kept this promise, designing cutting-edge technology that improves the lives of patients.
Visit the AEROmini product page to explore its many features and advantages, and see the through-the-scope AEROmini stent in action.
Merit Medical Salt Lake City Receives Utah Business Magazine 2019 Healthcare Hero Award
Yesterday Merit Medical Salt Lake City was recognized as a Utah Business Magazine 2019 Healthcare Hero, an award that honors healthcare providers and professionals that demonstrate excellence and innovation within the healthcare system and go above and beyond for their employees, their patients, their communities, and their fields. We specifically won the Corporate Initiative category for our numerous unique wellness programs and having a company culture that puts employees first. Nicole Priest, MD, Merit Medical Chief Wellness Officer, accepted the honor on the company’s behalf at an awards luncheon at The Grand America Hotel in Salt Lake City.
“I am thrilled and honored to accept the Utah Business Magazine 2019 Healthcare Hero Award on behalf of Merit Medical,” Dr. Priest says. “I am very appreciative of the fact that our efforts have been recognized because we do so much to try and improve the health and well-being of our employees.”
A top priority at our Utah-based company is ensuring employees and their families have access to quality and affordable care. Merit Salt Lake City provides excellent health insurance as well as an on-site health clinic and a free dental clinic. Highly trained, in-house health professionals include a physician, nutritionist, employee assistance counselor, and chief wellness officer to oversee Merit employee health and happiness and to lead a number of employee health initiatives.
These initiatives include optional biometric screenings that help employees set and reach personal wellness goals. They can then participate in programs designed to improve individual health needs and incorporate positive lifestyle change. Employees can also engage in multiple wellness education opportunities throughout the year that equip them with the most up-to-date health information and recommendations.
The award also took into consideration the employee garden designed to improve employee mental and physical health by creating more balance in the workday and providing access to fresh produce. The 1-acre parcel of land comprises 82 employee garden boxes, a small orchard of fruit trees, a greenhouse, and a separate area to grow produce for the Merit Cafés. Everything grown in the garden is by sustainable-farming standards, and no commercial pesticides are used; only OMRI-listed products are permitted.
But for employees, the garden supplies more than fresh produce. It delivers something else equally valuable—an outdoor oasis that tackles stress relief. Employees can be found at the garden enjoying their lunches and breaks, taking a moment to enjoy a bit of urban nature. The Merit garden also instills a sense of community. Employees have the opportunity to tend plants side-by-side, enjoy after-work harvest parties, and participate in annual plant sales that benefit employees in need during the holidays. Other perks include gardening and cooking workshops held throughout the year led by Merit’s full-time gardener. Explore the Merit employee garden.
More pathways to healthy eating can be found in the on-site Merit Cafés. In addition to the produce received from the employee garden (900 lb harvested and used in 2018), the Merit Café kitchen staff works creatively with Merit’s chief wellness officer and nutritionist to improve the menu, continually searching for ways to make dishes more nutritious and less calorie-dense.
Along with an extensive menu and salad bar options, foods are labeled with Healthy Choice and Merit Garden stickers to help employees identify healthier foods and those made with items from the employee garden, respectively. For busy employees and their families, the kitchen staff prepares healthy Grab-and-Go options as a healthier alternative to the drive-thru.
Merit Salt Lake City was also recognized as a Healthcare Hero for its workplace safety. Employees are trained in Hands-Only CPR and early defibrillation with an AED emergency device, preparing them for a cardiac arrest emergency. These trained employees are in addition to a team of skilled, on-campus first responders. Although the facility exceeds the number of AEDs required, extra devices are placed throughout to increase workplace safety. Read about this year’s CPR and AED Awareness Week with employee safety training.
Join us in celebrating this honor, a recognition that shows our passion for improving employee quality of life. Visit our Careers page to learn more about becoming a member of our team and the many benefits offered at each facility.
See the complete list of Utah Business Magazine 2019 Healthcare Heroes.
StabiliT® MX Vertebral Augmentation System Brings Steerability, Dexterity, and Control to Vertebral Augmentation Procedures
Merit Medical is committed to providing physicians with the vertebral augmentation tools needed to treat vertebral compression fractures. The StabiliT® MX Vertebral Augmentation System assembles a variety of vertebral augmentation products into one convenient kit, each working together to create preferential paths for the controlled delivery of high-viscosity bone cement in variety of fracture morphologies. Providing a targeted, bone sparing vertebral augmentation solution.
StabiliT MX Vertebral Augmentation System contents include the PowerCURVE™ Navigating Osteotome, DiamondTOUCH™ Syringe, StabiliT Bone Cement, and more. With these components, the StabiliT MX Vertebral Augmentation System brings steerability, dexterity, and control to vertebral augmentation procedures.
Steerability
The PowerCURVE Navigating Osteotome provides steerable channel creation to the entire vertebral body via a unipedicular access.1 While preserving intact cancellous bone and maximizing cement interdigitation.3,4 With the PowerCURVE, vertebral stabilization is achieved by creating preferential paths for a targeted cement fill.2
Learn more about PowerCURVE key steerability features.
Dexterity
The DiamondTOUCH combines the visibility and accuracy of a digital gauge with the dexterity of the clutch mechanism. Its bright LCD gauge is highly visible with easy-to-read numbers, and its clutch mechanism enables immediate cement flow stoppage if needed, delivering the performance that meets the multiple demands of vertebral augmentation procedures. The 36-inch delivery line allows operation of the syringe away from the radiation source.
Explore how the DiamondTOUCH can enhance the dexterity of your vertebral augmentation procedures.
Control
The StabiliT MX Vertebral Augmentation System provides StabiliT Bone Cement, our patented high viscosity cement with an extended 35-minute working time. The StabiliT Bone Cement provides controlled delivery and procedural flexibility.
Discover how StabiliT Bone Cement can benefit your vertebral augmentation procedures.
Find what you need for your vertebral augmentation procedures in the StabiliT MX Vertebral Augmentation System, and learn about all the ways we support minimally invasive treatment of vertebral compression fractures.
REFERENCES
- Hillen TJ, Radiology, 2014 v273 p261–7 PMID: 24927328
- Rahel Bornemann, Pain Physician: September/October 2013; PMID: 28323707
- Bassem Georgy, Pain Physician. 2013 Sep–Oct;16(5):E513–8; PMID: 24077201
- Dalton BE, Clin Interv Aging, 2012;7:525–31; PMID: 23204845
Treating Vertebral Compression Fractures with Multiple Therapeutic Options
Merit Medical provides physicians with a wide range of vertebroplasty and vertebral augmentation tools, offering patients various pathways to treatment.
Vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) can have debilitating effects on a patient’s quality of life. Our goal at Merit Medical is to provide physicians with a broad range of tools to treat VCFs through minimally invasive vertebroplasty and vertebral augmentation (kyphoplasty) procedures. Through our full family of VCF solutions, physicians can target fractures by finding the right therapeutic approach that meets the needs of each patient.
Our extensive VCF portfolio offers options that include balloon and non-balloon products, devices that provide a unipedicular or bipedicular approach, straight and steerable cavity creation tools, high-viscosity cement, and the products to deliver it with control and precision.
StabiliT® Vertebral Augmentation System
Treat pathological fractures and minimize extravasation in the vertebrae with a targeted approach that uses RF energy-treated, high-viscosity cement with a 35-minute extended working time and remotely controlled delivery.
StabiliT MX Vertebral Augmentation System
Take advantage of the same high-viscosity bone cement with a 35-minute extended working time but without the need for capital equipment. The StabiliT MX allows you to deliver cement using a precision syringe that allows for immediate cement flow stoppage.
StabiliT VP Vertebroplasty System
Enjoy simple prep of high-viscosity bone cement without blending or stirring and with no need to transfer cement. The StabiliT VP offers controlled cement delivery with the same 35-minute extended working time.
Learn more about StabiliT Bone Cement in Merit’s Latest News.
StabiliT Introducer
Achieve percutaneous access to bone during vertebroplasty and vertebral augmentation procedures with the StabiliT Introducer. Optimized radiolucency minimizes imaging obstruction while an ergonomic handle and depth markers on the cannula shaft assist with intraoperative manipulation and positioning.
Osseoflex® SB Steerable and Straight Balloons
Utilize a unipedicular or bipedicular approach to vertebral augmentation. The Osseoflex SB treats VCFs by compacting cancellous bone for controlled and precise cavity creation followed by predictable cement delivery.
Osseoflex SN Steerable Needle
Get direct access to the entire vertebral body through a unipedicular approach to vertebral augmentation. The Osseoflex SN delivers single-channel or multiple-channel cavity creation by steering and articulating to achieve targeted bone disruption.
Osseoflex Access Instruments
Find a simple solution to percutaneous bone access for vertebral augmentation with the Osseoflex. Access instruments can be used with other products to deliver bone cement to a vertebral body for treatment of VCFs. Both diamond and bevel tip stylets are included for physician choice.
DiamondTOUCH™ Syringe
Combine visibility and accuracy of a high-resolution digital device with the convenience of an ergonomic one-handed prep handle in this 30-mL syringe. The DiamondTOUCH is intended for bone cement delivery, inflation and deflation of interventional devices, and to monitor pressure (up to 35 ATM, 500 psi).
Merit Medical offers a diverse portfolio of VCF solutions, so you can choose the right tools for your procedures. Discover how we support minimally invasive vertebroplasty and vertebral augmentation by visiting our VCF solutions page and learning about our many versatile products.
United States Vice President Mike Pence and Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross Visited Merit Medical This Week
“Manufacturing is back… and frankly, it’s companies like Merit Medical that are making it happen all across this country. And that’s why it’s a real privilege to be here with this great team,” stated United States Vice President Mike Pence, as he began his talk to several hundred employees and special guests at Merit Medical on Thursday, August 22.
During their half-day visit, Vice President Pence and Commerce Secretary Ross toured the manufacturing facilities at Merit’s global headquarters in South Jordan, Utah. They learned about the many medical device products that are manufactured here and sold throughout the world and about the employees who make it all happen.
The event was planned to promote the President’s proposed North American trade agreement, and Merit Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Fred Lampropoulos surmised that Merit was likely chosen as the site for the event because “we do hundreds of millions of dollars of revenues in just North America.”
August 22 will surely be an unforgettable experience for many Merit Medical employees. “I am thrilled that many of our employees were able to enjoy this unique and very special opportunity. What an honor for Merit Medical to be able to host the United States Vice President and Secretary of Commerce,” said Fred Lampropoulos.
Updated Spine Resources for Your Practice
Merit Medical has recently updated its online Spine Resource Center as a way to support you in your spine practice as well as to help provide the best possible outcomes for patients undergoing vertebral augmentation (kyphoplasty), vertebroplasty, and spinal tumor ablation treatments. By inserting your email address, you’ll have access to a wide range of valuable tools and helpful information available for download.
Patient Education
Educate patients and increase awareness about interventional spine procedures with both digital and printed resources.
Digital Patient Resources
Use Merit’s digital tools on your practice website and social media as well as to boost your overall patient education efforts. With a licensing agreement, you’ll have access to treatment-related text, illustrations, and videos.
Printed Patient Resources
Order printed patient collateral, such as informational brochures and other patient awareness materials, simply by filling out an order form. The materials will be shipped to you at no cost.
Referring Physician Education
Collaborate with fellow physicians using Merit’s peer-to-peer presentations that address important topics, including patient selection, clinical evidence supporting interventional spine procedures, and more.
Clinical Resources
Throughout your day-to-day, take advantage of Merit’s many clinical resources. Product and procedure visual guides, disease management sheets, and prep and administration instructions are right at your fingertips.
Physician Support
To make your life easier, Merit provides updated coding and reimbursement information. A CMS Physician Fee Schedule look-up tool provides information for more than 10,000 physician services.
Data & Studies
Browse our list of key therapy studies that include quick links to abstracts and useful data summaries.
Merit Medical is committed to helping you care for your patients by offering the most up-to-date information available on interventional spine treatments. Visit the Merit Spine Resource Center today and explore the many tools you can use to enhance your practice.
Merit Salt Lake City to Host Summer Job Fair
Mark your calendars for an exciting upcoming event. On Tuesday, August 20, 2019, 3pm–7pm, you’re invited to our South Jordan campus for a Merit Medical Job Fair.
We will fill many positions on site at this event. Positions include medical device assembly operators (experience and no experience required) and molding technicians (no experience required). Multiple day, night, and evening shifts are available.
Register here to schedule your interview in advance and get helpful tips on how to prepare.
All jobs are located at our Salt Lake City location and offer competitive benefits, such as health, vision, dental, and life insurance; 401k retirement options; employee stock purchase plan; and 3 weeks of paid vacation. Working at our beautiful campus offers employees many unique perks, including access to the employee garden as well as personalized and affordable care at the Merit on-site health and dental clinics.
Jobs will be offered on the spot, so don’t wait. Register today. We can’t wait to meet you and make you a part of the Merit team.
WHERE
Merit Medical Salt Lake City
1600 Merit Parkway
South Jordan, UT 84095
WHEN
August 20, 2019
3pm — 7pm
FREE EVENT PARKING
1650 W Reunion Ave.
South Jordan, UT 84095
(Look for the Job Fair signs)
Merit’s Newest Innovation in Health Care is Now Available
Our goal at Merit Medical is to continue advancing products and solutions that impact Women’s Health procedures. That’s why we are so excited to introduce you to our latest solution for Women’s Health – Merit PinkPaks.
Specifically designed with clinical input, Merit PinkPaks allow you to take the guesswork out of product selection and put time back into your hands and the hands of your clinical team.
THE BENEFITS OF PINKPAK KITS – CUSTOM SOLUTIONS FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH
- Enhanced Sharps Safety
- Waste Reduction
- Standardization of Patient Care
- Product Standardization
- Cost Control
- Supply Consolidation
- Convenience
SCOUT® Localization Procedure Kits
Carefully curated, the SCOUT PinkPak™ is an all-in-one localization prep kit, ideal for the busy radiologist. Taking the guesswork out of product selection and putting time back in your staff’s hands, our standard SCOUT localization kit gives you the products you need for prepping your patient for placement of the SCOUT reflector, allowing you to focus on patient care.
There are two localization kits available; for reflector placement under mammographic or ultrasound guidance.
SAVI® Brachy Procedure Kits
Our SAVI Brachy PinkPak™ is ideal for the busy surgeon or radiation oncologist. This all-in-one prep kit contains all the products needed to prepare your patient for a SAVI Brachy catheter placement.
Merit Medical and CEO Fred Lampropoulos Featured in Wells Fargo Advertising Campaign with Bloomberg
Wells Fargo and Bloomberg recently spent several days at Merit Medical Global Headquarters in Salt Lake City, UT with Founder, Chairman, and CEO Fred Lampropoulos to capture video footage for a national advertising campaign. The advertising campaign for Wells Fargo is presented on multiple Bloomberg outlets including Bloomberg.com, Bloomberg Television, and Bloomberg Radio.
The ad campaign features successful Wells Fargo partnerships with innovative, fast-growing companies.
Watch the video to discover why Merit Medical partners with Wells Fargo to drive our growth.
Visit Merit’s Investor Resources page.
Merit’s New Chief Wellness Officer Is Dedicated to Fostering Employee Health and Happiness Worldwide
“If we can create an environment where people love coming to work and feel good at work and at home, then we will create an environment that allows us to continue to grow and to produce high-quality medical products for the world.”—Nicole Priest, MD
We recently sat down with Dr. Nicole Priest, the newest addition to Merit’s executive team as Chief Wellness Officer, to learn about her vision for creating health and happiness for Merit employees.
Since 2016, Dr. Priest has served as the physician at the Merit Care Clinic, the on-site employee clinic at the company’s headquarters in Salt Lake City, UT. During her tenure, Dr. Priest has implemented various employee health initiatives, including the 90-Day Wellness Challenge, a Diabetic Support Group, and ongoing wellness talks to help educate employees on healthy practices.
In her new role as Chief Wellness Officer, Dr. Priest will continue to lead these programs, as well as pilot new ones at Merit facilities around the globe. She lists expanding health education topics, developing more opportunities for convenient and quality employee healthcare, and creating healthier Merit Café menus as a few of her top priorities.
Merit Medical’s Portfolio of VCF Solutions Continues to Grow: DiamondTOUCH™ Syringe and StabiliT® Introducer
This week Merit Medical announced the launch of two products that enhance their complete portfolio of vertebral compression fracture (VCF) solutions: the DiamondTOUCH™ Syringe and the StabiliT® Introducer. With the addition of these innovative products, Merit expands upon its diverse spine portfolio, further establishing its commitment to minimally invasive vertebral augmentation (balloon kyphoplasty) and vertebroplasty treatments.
NEW DiamondTOUCH Syringe – simplified bone cement delivery and balloon inflation
The DiamondTOUCH Syringe is a cutting-edge dual indication 30 mL syringe that offers both simplified bone cement delivery as well as inflation and deflation of interventional devices up to 35 ATM/500 psi. A bright LCD screen with oversized time and pressure digits provides exceptional visibility and accuracy.
From precise cement delivery to balloon inflation, the enhanced design allows for the convenience and control of one-handed precise preparation paired with quick and easy release capabilities. Moreover, the DiamondTOUCH offers a 36-inch delivery line, allowing clinicians to operate the syringe away from direct radiation.
The DiamondTOUCH Syringe is compatible with Merit’s portfolio of vertebral compression fracture products including StabiliT cement delivery and Osseoflex® balloon inflation.
NEW StabiliT Introducer – now with optimized radiolucency
The new StabiliT Introducer offers easy and safe percutaneous access to bone and is fully compatible with current and future product lines, including StabiliT, STAR™, and Osseoflex. It retains established introducer lengths (10 cm and 12 cm) and tip configurations (trocar and bevel). To enhance clarity and ease of use, tip configuration and directionality are now printed directly on the handle. The new handle design optimizes radiolucency by minimizing obstruction.
The StabiliT Introducer offers a number of new features including an ergonomic handle for increased comfort and interoperative device manipulation, depth markers on the cannula to assist with intraoperative positioning, and a snap locking mechanism engineered to be more defined and stable.
Discover for yourself the new DiamondTOUCH Syringe and improved StabiliT Introducer, and explore all the ways Merit can support your spine procedures.