ALLIANCE MEDICAL, VANGUARD PLAN TO MERGE

Alliance Medical and Vanguard Medical Concepts -- both independent third-party reprocessors of single-use medical devices -- announced plans to merge their operations by the end of the year.

The combined company will provide current and future healthcare partners with reprocessing savings opportunities, more available product services, enhanced field service levels, a guarantee of quality and FDA compliance, and a continuous stream of new product services from its engineering and product development team, as well as environmental initiatives.

"The complementary offerings of both companies will enhance the benefits of reprocessing to our customers," said John Grotting, CEO of the new company. "Every customer will be able to expand their reprocessing program, translating into increased savings for their facility and a further reduction in excess waste being sent to community landfills."