Vocal exercise
Who are you and what do you do?
Paul Mazelin, strategic accounts manager, Specialty Silicone Fabricators (SSF)
How would you sum up your company?
SSF is a contract manufacturer of silicone components for the medical device industry. We specialise in longterm implantable applications and are also certified to manufacture drug elution combination products.
Business achievement you are most proud of
I'm most proud of how SSF collaborates with engineers we interface with and provide cost-effective methods to answer the age-old questions of fit, form and function.
On a personal level, when my grandmother needed a pacemaker, knowing that parts manufactured by SSF were being implanted in her certainly exudes a sense of pride.
What excites you about this industry?
The diversity of the opportunities continues to amaze me. Refinements and enhancements of existing devices as well as new concepts and innovative ideas for the treatment of what ails us.
Where do you predict industry growth will come from in the next 12 months?
The US marketplace still continues to possess a ‘wait and see’ attitude as to where things are going to shake out in regards to the Healthcare Affordability Act. The sales tax on medical device companies (2.3%) in most cases has simply pushed prices higher to the end-users. Economies from the BRIC(S) nations have recently been referred to as ‘The Fragile Five’ yet we still see heightened interest from these countries. The common denominator is that people do not want to skimp on their healthcare. With the global development of a middle class demanding better healthcare for themselves and their loved ones, I see growth coming from all directions.
Which medical plastic device do you wish you had invented and why?
The Alaris Medical needleless access port invented by Karl Leinsing. I have yet to see a more ubiquitous medical device that both improves patient comfort and allows nurses to more safely perform their duties and responsibilities. It takes full advantage of the physical, chemical and biocompatibility properties that silicone possesses. I have not seen an IV in the last few years that isn't taking advantage of this clever needle access port.