Patient Comfort Systems (PCS) CEO Peter Rothschild, M.D. and DOTmed Certified Product Manager Frank Cloud say that the company's philosophy is based around two parts. The first is improving patient comfort for CT/MRI scans. Often, patients are both upset and in pain, so PCS asks how to make the experience more "friendly." Secondly and more importantly, PCS wants to ensure that the CT/MRI experience is a safe one.

Rothschild says one of the biggest threats to patient safety is the risk of exposure to aggressive antibiotic-resistant bacteria or super bugs, such as MRSA. Rothschild explains older CT/MRI pads, designed in the 1980s, weren't intended for the sheer numbers of patients that are undergoing procedures today. The pads are wearing out, torn and frayed, and may be contaminated by bacteria and body fluids seeping into the core of the pad--presenting a danger to the patient and technologist. Rothschild, a radiologist, wants to challenge the current thinking about infectious disease control, which he discusses in a white paper on PCS's website (use link above).


The company's systems have antimicrobials embedded inside the fabric and foam. The systems are made from ultra-strong fabrics with sewn and welded seams to protect the core material from fluids. Additionally, the vapor- and moisture-impervious fabric prevents fluids from passing through the cover. The systems "hold up tremendously," says Rothschild. The pads are made from Temper® material and include a state of the art rubber backing to prevent sliding off the table.

The company has been in business two years, building upon Rothschild's 25 years in imaging industry as a diagnostic radiologist, professor and open MRI textbook editor. Frank Cloud also has health care and medical manufacturing experience. PCS designs the pad systems and partners with manufacturers of the systems. PCS's techs help design the pads' flexibility and positioning so that a radiologist can manipulate the system to the patient's benefit, such as unique wedges that help relieve lower back pressure. That comfort level helps a patient remain still longer, which in turn makes the radiologist's job easier--leading to less repeat MRI sequences and patient call-backs. Rothschild says of PCS's safety and comfort directives in CT/MRI pads, "We're the only company in the world looking at those areas."

PCS's customers are hospitals and imaging centers, currently in the domestic market, in the future worldwide. To Rothschild, industry trends mean doing more with less because of decreased reimbursement, and centers are keeping their equipment much longer. This leads to aging equipment in the pads and coils and electronics, and a need for PCS's products.

PCS has a small staff but hundreds of distributors for the systems. Business is growing due to advertising and word of mouth. DOTmed has been helpful in getting the product noticed by potential customers, who are interested in revitalizing their equipment. As a small company, having DOTmed Certification gives potential clients a positive introduction to PCS's products.

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