VitalAire wins 5-year contracts To Become Primary Provider Of Oxygen Services To Home Oxygen Patients In Mainland BC

Kelowna, BC - VitalAire, a subsidiary of Air Liquide, is proud to announce their selection by the British Columbia mainland Regional Health Authorities, to become the primary provider of home oxygen services for the next 5 years. With this contract, VitalAire and its 12 BC offices, solidifies its presence across Canada as a leader in home respiratory services.

"This award confirms the quality of our services and the value of VitalAire's proprietary innovations in the management of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Over the next six months, our priority for our clinical team will be the seamless transition and continuity of care for the 5,400 patients," underlined John Hunter, Vice President, Homecare Marketing, Sales & Business Development. "Patients will receive training on VitalAire's home oxygen medical devices before the previous homecare providers' equipment is removed from their homes."

Home oxygen therapy is often required for severe COPD. The use of supplemental oxygen, including portability options, allows these patients to increase daily activities and slow the deterioration of their condition. The contract, awarded by the mainland Regional Health Authorities of BC following a formal tender process, is in effect since July 1st and gives VitalAire the opportunity to expand its respiratory services including home oxygen and CPAP programs throughout the province.

Research findings released last November by The Canadian Lung Association demonstrate that as many as three million Canadians may have COPD, Canada's fourth leading cause of death. Furthermore, doctors project that COPD will be the third leading cause of death around the world (and in Canada) by the year 2020.

SOURCE: VitalAire