DME maker Drive Medical has made two recent acquisitions: it has picked up Columbia Medical, a maker of complex rehab technology products for pediatric patients, and its subsidiary Drive Medical Limited has bought Park House Healthcare, which makes beds, support surfaces and patient transfer devices.

The Columbia buy adds a company that produces complex rehabilitation products aimed at enhancing the lives of children with disabilities. For longer than 30 years, Columbia has manufactured products such as wheelchairs, aircraft transfer chairs, bath and shower products, gait trainers and car seats. Columbia is also known for its innovative Spirit Adjustable Positioning Car Seat and the Omni and Elite pediatric tub transfer systems.

 “The acquisition of Columbia will greatly expand Drive’s presence in the pediatric market through our Wenzelite division, and further diversify our portfolio of pediatric products,” said Harvey Diamond, Chairman and CEO of Drive Medical. “… Plus, with our recent acquisition of Specialised Orthotic Services (SOS) in the U.K., we believe there will be significant cross-selling and marketing opportunities with Wenzelite, Columbia Medical and SOS in the United States and Europe.”

Gary Werschmidt, CEO of Columbia Medical, will continue in his current role.

“We are delighted to align ourselves with Drive Medical, one of the fastest-growing manufacturers in the healthcare industry today,” Werschmidt said. “With Drive’s resources and capabilities, Columbia Medical will thrive in the U.S. and European markets through access to a wider range of products, new distribution channels, and our continued commitment to unparalleled customer satisfaction.”

Park House

Drive Medical’s  wholly-owned subsidiary Drive Medical Limited’s acquisition of Park House Healthcare, will add a worldwide manufacturer of support surface products, hospital beds, and patient transfer and handling equipment.

Founded in 1984 and based in Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom, Park House Healthcare’s product portfolio targets the UK’s NHS, acute community and nursing home sectors. In addition to the company headquarters, Park House operates service, training and distribution centers located cross the United Kingdom, and the company’s international distribution network extends to more than 25 countries.

“This is a strategic acquisition for Drive Medical and will greatly enhance our global stature in the rapidly growing markets of pressure prevention and long term care,” Drive’s Diamond commented. “Furthermore, with this acquisition Drive gains a seasoned management team, led by Stephen Owens, who will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to our organization.”

“Everyone at Park House Healthcare is delighted with the acquisition by Drive Medical,” Owen said. “It is an excellent fit for our people whilst providing a formidable platform to increase market share and quickly gain recognition as leaders in pressure care.”