Amigo Mobility International - Healthcare: What's New

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Amigo® products are designed to change your life! Let us show you how.

What's New...

DON’T BE LEFT OUT - SEND US YOUR E-MAIL ADDRESS!

Amigo continues to send out more on-line communications and wishes to e-mail as many of you as possible. To receive periodic updates on Amigo products, the mobility industry, and recent company happenings, please complete and submit the Email Notification form.

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Patient Care Reaches NEW Levels Through
Superior Assisted Mobility

Amigo Product Introduction - Escort 7.5

As an innovative means of patient transportation, the Escort 7.5 promotes single caregiver safety and efficiency. Patient transfer is handled confidently with less fatigue, strain, injury and risk reduction. The 750 pound weight capacity offers bariatric durability. Standard features include O2 holder, IV pole and notebook/patient chart holder behind the seat. Applications for any patient-assisted environment including Admission & Discharge, Bariatrics, General Radiology, Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation. Color availability: Moss Green

To learn more on Patient Care Applications visit Mobility Solutions. For additional product information contact Alison Newkirk at 800-821-2710 (ext 221).
Field representative opportunities now available!

April 27, 2008

Congratulations to Amigo owner Itzhak Perlman!

World renowned violinist Itzhak Perlman is a recipient of a 2008 Lifetime Achievement Award from the Grammy Recording Academy.

Itzhak has received many awards including an Academy Award for best score of the 1993 film "Schindler’s List." He was the violin soloist for the 2005 film "Memoirs of a Geisha" and performed at the 73rd and 78th Academy Awards.

In May of 2007, Itzhak entertained guests at the state dinner attended by Queen Elizabeth II at the White House.

Itzhak contracted polio at a young age. Today, he uses an Amigo while traveling and touring internationally and at home in New York City. Itzhak and his wife, Toby, have five children -- Noah, Navah, Leora, Rami and Ariella. He enjoys teaching young violinists at the Perlman Music Program, founded by Itzhak and Toby in 1995. For more information about the Perlman Music Program, visit www.perlmanmusicprogram.org.

April 02, 2008

Will Ferrell Rides an Amigo RD While on National Comedy Tour

On February 5, 2008, Will Ferrell’s Funny or Die Comedy Tour made a stop at Michigan State University in Lansing, Mich. During his show at the Breslin Center, Ferrell rode an Amigo RD POV/Scooter for a segment of the comedy routine.
Commenting on the Amigo, Ferrell joked with an audience member "Like I said, I travel with 15 of them."

Ferrell is an Emmy and Golden Globe nominated comedian, actor and writer who has starred in Saturday Night Live and a variety of movies including "Old School," "Elf," "Anchorman" and "Semi-Pro."

March 06, 2008

Amigo apparel is now available to buy online!

NEW! Amigo Mobility's e-store lets you order Amigo apparel online. Available in a variety of styles and colors, buy now for special introductory pricing!

When you go to our Amigo e-store at www.myamigo.com, you can buy high-quality clothing from Lands' End Business Outfitters and select our Amigo logo to apply to it.

From dress shirts and fleece jackets to t-shirts and hats, ordering Amigo logo'd gear doesn't get much easier than this! So, browse our e-store and see all the Amigo goods that are available. Our store is always open!

If you have any questions, or need assistance, please contact Fran Hetzner at fhetzner@myamigo.com.

To visit the Amigo e-store go to www.myamigo.com, "Buy Now," then "New Amigo Apparel." Thanks! And happy shopping!

March 06, 2008

Introducing Amigo Mobility's newest product – the SmartMover

Created for communities such as hospitals, museums, convention centers or exposition halls, Amigo's SmartMover enhances patients' and visitors' mobility experiences while increasing workplace efficiency.

Increase: Patient and visitor satisfaction and safety
Reduce: Labor costs
Attract: New patient and visitor usage, community awareness

Product Features

500 lbs. rider weight capacity
4” longer platform option (SmartMover XL) for maximum leg positioning/comfort
Programmable speed
40 mile battery capacity
Safety features include rear bumper, automatic parking brake, front and rear stability devices, protected throttle operation, battery overcharge protection

Contact Alison, business development coordinator, to learn more about the SmartMover and the customer service benefits for your business. She can be reached at anewkirk@myamigo.com or 800-821-2710, ext.221.

January 17, 2008

Need a Lift?
Amigo manufactures the Lift-All designed to lift your mobility aid into your vehicle. The Compatible Vehicle Listing is arranged by make and model, to better determine if your current vehicle is compatible with an Amigo Lift-All. Please call 1-800-821-2710 for more specific Lift-All installation instructions.

November 28, 2007

New Product Introduction!
Our newest Active Lifestyle line of products includes the TravelMate™ and TravelMate RD. The Classic FD is the 2007 success version of the original Amigo Front Drive.

Each new Amigo has these features:

360-degree seat rotation for easier transferring and comfortable seating at the dinner table.
Automatic magnetic brake safely checks the Amigo on inclines.
Infinitely adjustable handle maximizes individual steering comfort.
24-volt electronics produce efficiency and longer product performance life.

Classic FD
The Amigo Front Drive was the industry’s first power operated mobility aid and one of our most popular models for nearly 40 years. To meet today's needs we took the best features from the Amigo Front Drive, added three major improvements and created the Amigo Classic FD. Click here for more information.
TravelMate	TravelMate RD
Lightweight, take-apart and transportable. Learn why these front drive and rear drive options are traveling companions for an Active Lifestyle! View more on the TravelMate or the TravelMate RD.
October 15, 2007

Amigo Mobility Vice President Exposes How Lawsuits Are Changing America

Beth Thieme, vice president of Amigo Mobility, was featured in the Saginaw News on June 10, 2007 for her work toward legal reform. Thieme created the consumer group Michigan Lawsuit Abuse Watch in 1996 to raise awareness toward lawsuit abuse. Click here to read article and press release. For more information about M-Law go to www.mlaw.org.

August 31, 2007

Our Environmental Responsibility

Amigo Mobility has taken many steps to maximize an eco-friendly organization producing eco-friendly products. We are committed to continuous improvement in those efforts.

Here are green measures implemented through our three-step plan:

Recycle -- all of Amigo's products are completely recyclable -- and have been for more than five years.
Reuse -- 90 percent of electronic components on all Amigo models are completely repairable.
Reduce -- increased efficiency through our 24-volt electrical system (compared to standard 12 volt system) reduces the number of battery replacements.

Click here for our complete Environmental Mission Statement.

August 31, 2007

NEW! EASY CLEAN, FLAT-FREE TIRE
A new tire option is now available on the Amigo RT Express, RT Express with 3” shorter platform, and the Amigo MCX models. The gray Trimline rear wheels are made of closed cell polyurethane foam and measure 9” in diameter x 2.5” wide. Keeping our products environmentally “green”, the tires are 100% recyclable. Tire benefits include: 1. Comfortable ride comparable to pneumatic tires 2. Softens surface bumps 3. Non-marking 4. Flat-free 5. Easy to clean tread 6. No flat spots from prolonged sitting in one spot 7. No deterioration or discoloring from sunlight, ozone, extreme temperatures, or humidity
Part # 7912.10 (one wheel assembly) at $59 MSRP^* Part # 111165 (set) at $106 MSRP^* ^aftermarket pricing*
Should your Amigo be in need of one rear tire replacement, we recommend ordering a set of two. The replacement of two rear wheels is better for both ride and aesthetic purposes. Click on Service Dealer Locator for local Amigo assistance or phone 800-248-9131 to reach our Customer Service Department. If you are considering the purchase of an Amigo RT Express, RT Express with 3” shorter platform or an Amigo MCX with the new Trimline rear tire option, click on Dealer Locator for local Amigo assistance or phone 800-821-2710 to reach our Sales Department. Order Today!
June 25, 2007

Sweet, Sweet Music...

June 12, 2007

World renowned violinist Itzhak Perlman recently met with a group of young violin students after his concert in Aurora, IL. Academy, Emmy, and Grammy awards winner, Perlman is a long-time Amigo owner and friend of Al Thieme, Amigo founder and president. Standing behind and to the immediate left of Perlman (with arms crossed) is student, Joanna Collins, godchild of Beth Thieme, Vice President of Amigo Mobility.

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Medicare guidelines held strict to strengthen industry integrity

A recent settlement was made through the Justice Department involving one of the industry’s largest healthcare providers. The investigation found that many people received power chairs when a smaller, less expensive POV/Scooter would have better improved their mobility function. This is an advancing step to discourage issuing products not suited to individual needs.

The Office of the Inspector General plans to monitor Medicare transactions on a nationwide scale in order to prevent any re-occurrence of abuse and fraud within the healthcare industry.

Take the initiative to find the right medical supplier. Remember the tips below and make sure your provider of choice:

· Works with you

· Establishes your needs

· Conducts an in-home evaluation

· Takes time to answer your questions

· Demonstrates multiple product options

Everyone looking for a mobility solution should evaluate, compare and make an informed decision. Amigo Mobility is committed to providing the best solution for people with walking limitations. Ultimately, the correct mobility device enhances function, independence, and lifestyle.

Begin to “claim the right” to determine which mobility product you will best enjoy and use. If your current mobility product could better meet your needs or your ability to function, contact us. We are here to help.

May 30, 2007

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We continue to keep you updated on notifications from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) as they relate to the prevention of Medicare fraud. Click here for a recent release from CMS. Also included in the CMS piece are Related Links covering press releases from the Department of Justice on recent Medicare fraud prosecution and settlement of individuals and health care companies.

June 29, 2007

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Medicare Powerchair Fraud
Click here for an update on the fraud and abuse of power chair purchases through Medicare. (Press release through the office of the Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, Charles Grassley.)

Click here to read AMI's position on POV Advantages.

Amigo customer testimonials confirm POV Advantages.

For our most recent response (10/11/05) to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services on evolving policy changes, Click here.
Visit www.cms.hhs.gov for most recent Medicare developments.

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Exciting News!

www.amigoshopper.com

Commercial Web-Site

As of May 1^st, browsers now have access to an exciting new Amigo website outlining Amigo commercial models---electric shopping carts. If you frequently shop at a retail outlet without benefit of electric shopping carts, ask the store manager to consider offering Amigo Shopper products as a customer service benefit. Amigoshopper.com is designed, primarily, for commercial buyers with fast-paced schedules and minimal time to review and/or research their product options. Innovative features allow anyone on Amigo’s corporate website www.myamigo.com to click on the menu header Amigo Shopper Products and move directly into www.amigoshopper.com. Clicking menu header Amigo Mobility on amigoshopper.com moves one back to myamigo.com for an easy transition between general, healthcare and commercial applications.

May 30, 2007

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Amigo Product Matrix

Now you are able to review and compare Amigo products easier than ever! A new Product Matrix outlines each product with suggested retail pricing and comparison features. Click here to print your own copy.

SAFE, SAFER, SAFEST…

The Amigo Classic, RT Express and RD (Rear Drive) are now available with Special Safety Plus (SSP) Features as the preferred mobility models for residents in Retirement Villages & Independent Living Centers. Package priced at only $50, the SSP features help to increase community and resident safety. Call 1-800-MY-AMIGO or search the Dealer Locator for an Amigo representative in your geographic area to learn more about SSP Features.

NEW! “BEST VALUE “ AMIGO PRODUCTS FOR MEDICARE BENEFICIARIES--Quality At A LOW COST!
With a robust rider weight capacity ranging up to 350 pounds, the NEW Amigo MC and MCX offer Amigo Rear Drive quality with low price tags of only $1995 each (including batteries)!

MC standard features:

All Steel Platform
360 Degree Full-Swivel, Lightweight Fold-Down Seat
Flip-Up Removable Arms
Standard Seat Lock & Seat Post
HI-LO Speed Controls
Infinitely Adjustable EZ-Tilt Black Handle
Universal Front Basket
2amp-Offboard Universal Charger w/AC Cord
Programmable w/Diagnostics
9” Solid, Foam-Filled Mag Front Wheel
10.5” Foam-Filled Mag Rear Wheels
Safety Stability Tubes
2- 17amp Batteries
Dynamic R-90 Controller
Cinnamon Red Color

MCX standard features:

All Steel Platform
360 Degree Full-Swivel, Lightweight Fold-Down Seat
Flip-Up Removable Arms
Standard Seat Lock & Seat Post
HI-LO Speed Controls
Infinitely Adjustable EZ-Tilt Black Handle
Universal Front Basket
2amp-Offboard Universal Charger w/AC Cord
Programmable w/Diagnostics
6” Flat Free Front Wheel
9” Foam-Filled Mag Rear Wheels
Safety Stability Tubes
2- 17amp Batteries
Dynamic R-90 Controller
Scuba Blue Color

Sound like a BEST VALUE solution? You bet it is!

USA-made, the Amigo MC and MCX are perfect for a Medicare beneficiary or as insurance-covered mobility device. Call 1-800-MY-AMIGO or search the Dealer Locator for an Amigo representative in your geographic area to test-drive the Amigo MC or MCX today!

Direct Link to Product Selections: http://www.myamigo.com/hc/hcproducts.aspx

Try Something New!
Airbrushed rear covers for your Amigo are now ON SALE. Look for the part number and pricing on our website inside BUY NOW—Overstocked Items and Specials. Send us a picture of your grandchildren, pet or a scenic view and we can have the image professionally painted on a new rear cover for your Amigo…an excellent way to show off your loved ones or favorite destination. Visit BUY NOW – Overstocked Items and Specials today!

BUY NOW! WWW.MYAMIGO.COM
Amigo makes it easy to “Buy Now” on-line! Click on the “Buy Now” button and save precious time by ordering from popular models, service parts, accessories or overstocked items and “specials”. Make your selection and a representative will confirm your request and method of payment. It’s just that simple!

Plus, "RENT NOW" is also available on the Amigo Classic! If you’re planning a vacation or extended trip, you will have full mobility for as little as $150/week. This lightweight made-to-travel Amigo will keep you energized for a fun-filled excursion. Check out "RENT NOW" today!

Exciting NEW Product Announcement!
In partnership with the Zomet Institute in Israel, Amigo Mobility is proud to introduce the Shabbat Amigo!

Innovative. Customized. Unique.
Amigo continues its hallmark tradition of developing niche products and the Shabbat Amigo is no exception! Allowing Orthodox Jews with walking disabilities to observe the Sabbath in full compliance, the Shabbat model is halachically-authorized by the Zomet Institute in Israel. At $450 MSRP, the Shabbat option with specific Shabbat features may be added to the RT Express/RT Express Junior, RD, EXT350, or HD450 Amigo models at the time of their purchase. By switching the Amigo into Shabbat mode, the user activates a timer that automatically sets the chair in motion, satisfying the “no work” Sabbath restriction. Every Shabbat Amigo is individually inspected and certified by a Zomet representative and available through Amigo dealers.
Click here for Dealer Locator.

View Front Page Article on the Shabbat Amigo published Thursday, July 21 in The Saginaw News.
Shabbat Press Release from AMI corporate offices.
Full Page published in Viewpoint Magazine (Passover edition).

How does the Shabbat work?
When the Amigo is put into the Shabbat mode, it connects to a separate circuit board—the Shabbat module. The Shabbat module’s timing circuit takes about 15-20 seconds to start the Amigo moving slowly on its own. There is no throttle lever activation required by the driver. This is considered an “indirect action”.

Once the Amigo is moving in Shabbat mode, the driver may pull the lever to go forward faster because the motor relay circuit has already been activated by the Shabbat module. This is not considered a “direct action.” To go in reverse, the driver must push a directional button. This causes the Shabbat to go through its timing cycle, again, before it automatically changes the motor relay for reverse driving.

NEW Service Kits Available Now!
Be prepared for repairs when you need assistance quickly. Your Amigo is simplistically designed and, most often, do-it-yourself repairs are complete in a minimal amount of time.

Save time and money on our most requested parts for all rear drive models from 07/1992 to present. (Click on your selection to download and print.)
#10877 - Essential Wire Service Kit (151 KB)
#10878 - Complete Wire Service Kit (126 KB)
#10881/82 - Charging Service Kit-Reel Cord/AC Cord (185 KB)

A Service Kit is now available on our newest Front Drive Traveling Model, the Amigo Classic. (Click on your selection to download and print.)
#10911 - Classic Basic Service Kit (140 KB)

It’s INNOVATIVE…It’s EASY…NO INSTALLATION REQUIRED… Amigo now offers a NEW choice in Mobility Transportation – The Lift-It!

1. Fully Transferable Between Vehicles*
2. Unique Design With Compact Storage
3. Stand Alone Power Source
4. Lifting Capacity 200 lbs (90.9kg)

(*Used With Class II or III Receiver Hitch)

If it’s difficult for your or your spouse, child, grandchild or caretaker to transport your POV/Scooter, we have the solution! By simply transferring the lightweight Amigo® Lift-It from one vehicle to another, your POV/Scooter is conveniently with you wherever you need it.

View Product Information for more Lift-It highlights.

Our Website
We are pleased to introduce our newly designed Amigo website. We encourage you to leisurely review our new site, as we have added general information for existing users, as well as updated product information for those considering a purchase. We also encourage you to visit our site often, as we will continue to update the contents and inform you of changes as they occur. We welcome your feedback and look forward to hearing from you!