Meet Taofiki Gafar-Schaner and Joey Ferry, the dynamic duo behind Frontier Innovations, Inc., a company dedicated to revolutionizing patient care through innovative healthcare solutions like Safe Seizure. With over 25 years of combined experience in nursing and business, Taofiki and Joey have leveraged their expertise to address critical gaps in the healthcare system.
Journey as Entrepreneurs
Their journey began with a simple yet profound observation: the inadequate and unsafe practice of using linen and tape for bed rail protection during seizure precautions. Fueled by their frontline experience and a passion for improving patient safety, Taofiki and Joey developed SafeSeizure™ pads. These pads not only eliminate the risks associated with linen padding—such as bacterial growth and hindering access to bed controls—but also provide a standardized, cleanable, and patient-centric solution.
Addressing Healthcare Challenges
Frontier Innovations focuses on enhancing patient outcomes by challenging outdated practices and offering practical, effective solutions. SafeSeizure™ pads, designed for single-patient use and self-inflating, have quickly become a preferred choice in over 85 hospitals nationwide. This innovative approach not only improves patient safety but also streamlines workflow for healthcare providers.
Overcoming Obstacles
Like many entrepreneurs in the healthcare sector, Taofiki and Joey faced significant hurdles, including regulatory barriers and the challenge of changing entrenched practices. However, through perseverance and collaboration with healthcare professionals, they successfully navigated these obstacles. Their partnership with Cleveland Clinic, where SafeSeizure™ became the standard for seizure precautions, stands as a testament to their dedication and the impact of their innovation.
Success Stories and Milestones
One of their proudest achievements is their collaboration with Cleveland Clinic, where SafeSeizure™ was adopted across all 20 facilities following rigorous trials and evaluations. This endorsement underscored the value and effectiveness of their solution on a large scale, validating their mission to drive meaningful change in healthcare.
Advice to Aspiring Entrepreneurs
For those aspiring to enter the healthcare industry, Taofiki and Joey emphasize the importance of identifying genuine needs and building solutions that address them comprehensively. They encourage aspiring entrepreneurs to stay connected with industry trends, build strong support networks, and remain flexible in their approach to problem-solving.
Staying Informed and Looking Ahead
To stay ahead of industry trends, Taofiki and Joey actively engage in networking, attend conferences, and leverage social media. This constant immersion in the healthcare landscape informs their business strategy, guiding product development and market positioning.
Long-Term Goals
Looking to the future, Frontier Innovations aims to expand its market presence and continue innovating to meet evolving healthcare challenges. With a recently launched nationwide sales team and a commitment to excellence, they are poised for significant growth and impact in the healthcare sector.
Taofiki Gafar-Schaner and Joey Ferry exemplify the spirit of nursepreneurship—driven by a passion for patient care, informed by frontline experience, and dedicated to making lasting improvements in healthcare delivery. Through their company, Frontier Innovations, Inc., they are not just addressing challenges—they are setting new standards for patient safety and care, one innovation at a time.