The quality of medical aids is subject to constant evaluation and strict regulation. This is a good thing, because for the people who depend on them, the quality of the aid is closely linked to the quality of life of the user. But what criteria actually speak for the quality of an aid and do consumers, payers and manufacturers agree on which aspects of an aid should be particularly emphasised?
BEO BERLIN is often involved in such issues, because as a strong partner of medical aid manufacturers, we not only advise on legal compliance, but also on design that is optimised to meet needs.
A study by the Institute for Education and Health Services Research (InBVG) of the Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences has addressed the question of which factors determine the quality of aids. She examined the different perspectives of the stakeholders involved: users, manufacturers and funding organisations. The results show that there are indeed differences in perception, but also common denominators on which all parties can agree.
Key features: workmanship and functionality
The workmanship of an aid is one of the central quality criteria on which all groups of stakeholders agree. High-quality workmanship not only ensures durability, but also the safety and comfort of the user. For many consumers, the reliable functionality of an aid is essential, as it is often directly linked to quality of life. Therefore, the accuracy of fit, i.e. the ability of the aid to meet the specific needs of the user, also plays a crucial role.
It is interesting to note that manufacturers also emphasise this criterion, which underlines the importance of user-oriented design. This is where the expertise of BEO BERLIN comes into play: we not only support manufacturers in regulatory matters, but also help them to optimally align their products with the needs of users. A good aid that reliably improves the everyday life of the user – and that is precisely what makes it of high quality.
The perspective of the cost bearers: economic viability and efficiency
While users prioritise functionality, payers often consider quality through an economic lens. They pay particular attention to the fact that the aid not only fulfils its function, but also does so at a reasonable price. The list of aids, in which the products are listed that are reimbursed by the health insurance companies, plays a central role here. BEO BERLIN offers pragmatic solutions here by helping manufacturers to have their products entered in the list of aids and to create the necessary documentation for this.
We also value partnership-based solutions in our cooperation with payers. Because only through a dialogue that takes into account the needs of all sides can we ensure that high-quality products are brought to market at fair conditions.
Consultancy and service: the difference between good and excellent
Another finding of the study shows that the quality of advice and service has a major influence on the perceived quality of an aid. Users attach great importance to detailed instruction in the handling of the product and expect a quick response in the event of problems or requests for adjustments. This shows that the providers of assistive devices play a crucial role in making the supply process as smooth and user-friendly as possible.
For BEO BERLIN, this means that we not only support manufacturers in meeting technical and regulatory requirements, but also offer training and advice to ensure that users receive the best possible care. After all, well-informed customers are more likely to be satisfied.
To summarise: quality as a joint task
To summarise, it can be said that the quality of an aid depends on many factors – from technical workmanship and precise functionality to cost-effectiveness and customer service. The various stakeholders have different priorities, but they all agree on one thing: a high-quality aid must function reliably and meet the specific needs of the user.
BEO BERLIN is a competent partner at the side of manufacturers to help them meet these requirements. Our expertise and pragmatic solutions not only help to overcome regulatory hurdles, but also to develop products that improve people's everyday lives and enhance their quality of life. Together with our customers, we are working to take the quality of medical aid provision to a new level – in a spirit of partnership, professionalism and pragmatism.
Contact us if you have any questions about this or similar topics and get our support in optimising your medical devices and aids!
The study by the Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences:
Nauert et. al. 2022: Qualität von Hilfsmitteln und Hilfsmittelversorgung – Ergebnisse einer quantitativen Studie. Institut für Bildungs- und Versorgungsforschung im Gesundheitsbereich. Bielefeld.
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