Sage Products Inc (Cary, IL) has a core belief in prevention. The company believes that evidence-based interventions will lead to improved outcomes. This particular belief led to the birth of Interventional Patient Hygiene, a nursing action plan focused on fortifying patients’ host defenses with evidence-based care. By promoting a return to the basics of nursing care, Sage’s advanced patient hygiene products and programs help healthcare facilities improve clinical outcomes by reducing the risk of hospital-acquired infection and skin breakdown. Sage’s Chairman and CEO, Vince Foglia recently provided an up-close-and personal look inside the company’s vital role in the healthcare industry and his day-to-day roles and responsibilities in overseeing the business as its corporate commander-in-chief.

Q: Sage Products is a worldwide leader in disposable healthcare products. The company’s core belief is in prevention — that evidence-based interventions will lead to improved outcomes. As the Chairman and CEO, what do you feel our readers should know first and foremost about your company?

A: Sage is a manufacturer, and we pride ourselves in developing innovative products that solve real problems in the healthcare industry. From the very beginning—it’s hard for me to believe it’s been 40 years—we’ve been focused on prevention. Today, our products help prevent adverse hospital-acquired events—specifically skin breakdown, pressure ulcers, healthcare-associated pneumonia and surgical site infections. We believe strongly in evidence and outcomes. Our products have the science behind them to prove they really do work. I also think it's important for readers to know that we are a true American manufacturer, and manufacturing in America is not dead. I’m very proud to say that all of our products are made in the US. When they’re made here, we control the quality and that’s an area we won’t compromise.

Q: Please describe your work experiences that prepared you for your current position as Sage’s CEO. Also, how passionate are you about the health and medical fields?

A: My first position in healthcare almost 50 years ago was as a salesperson for MacBick, which sold medical supplies to hospitals. One of our product lines was focused on driving down hospital-acquired infection. I learned right away that nurses were receptive to products that would improve care and help patients. Even with today’s demands—paperwork, technology, etc. nurses still want the very best for their patients. That will never change. It was during that time that I developed my passion for healthcare, because of the dedication I saw from nurses to their patients. I wanted to be a part of it. I am truly passionate about healthcare. It’s been my life’s work and dedication for almost 50 years. I love this industry. I know countless medical professionals, and I admire the work they do. I’ve seen many dear friends and family members receive care, and even I have experienced what it’s like to be a patient. We’ve made great advances in healthcare, and I think there are many more to come. I’m driven to contribute in a positive way for the good of all.

Q: Please expand on the latest news surrounding Sage’s products given to the Chilean Miners:

A: One of our distributors in Chile made the connection to the rescue effort and donated our Comfort Bath® washcloths and Shampoo Cap. Both are prepackaged, rinse-free products—the very same ones used in hospitals.