10 Finalists Announced for 2015 Dare-to-Dream Medtech Design Challenge: Hip•Pro•Tec

Name your device and explain how it works?

Easy to wear, hip protector with optional diaper attachment. The protective pads within the belt, over the hip bones, is made of same polymer foam used in extreme sports and military applications for protection.

 ï¿¼What problem in healthcare does the device solve?

One in 3 adults aged 65 and older sustain injuries due to falls each year. Hip fractures account for at least 300,000 hospital admissions in the US annually. About 30% of people with hip fractures will die within one year, and many more will lose their ability to live at home independently.

 ï¿¼Why should the device be commercialized?

The present cost to the US health care system is upwards of $20 billion annually. The cost of this device is a minute fraction compared to the cost of hip fractures care and mortality amongst our elderly. Why wouldn't you commercialize it? Like seat belts, the cost of care from injuries and mortality far exceeds the cost of the seat belts. It's a no brainer!

What inspired you to design this device?

I visited convalescent homes on many occasions and witnessed many patients with hip fractures and injuries. I knew I could design a device that could save lives and prevent so much suffering. There is no other hip protector/diaper system on the market today, which offers this unique combination of comfort, ease-of-use and new protective materials.

Submitted By

Bryan Desure