Bard (company)

Bard logo

Bard (company) is a prominent healthcare and medical devices company known for its significant contributions to the development, manufacturing, and marketing of medical technologies that improve the lives of people around the world. The company, officially known as C.R. Bard, Inc., has played a pivotal role in the medical device industry, offering a wide range of products in the fields of urology, oncology, vascular, and surgical specialties.

History

C.R. Bard, Inc. was founded in 1907 by Charles Russell Bard, a pioneering figure in the medical device industry. Initially, the company focused on importing urological instruments from Europe to the United States. Over the years, Bard expanded its portfolio to include a variety of medical devices, becoming a leader in the healthcare sector. The company's commitment to innovation and quality has led to the development of numerous groundbreaking products that have set industry standards.

Products and Services

Bard's product line encompasses a broad range of medical devices across various specialties:

• Urology: Bard has developed numerous products to address conditions such as urinary retention, urinary incontinence, and kidney stones. These include catheters, stents, and devices for urological surgery.
• Oncology: The company offers devices for cancer diagnosis and treatment, including biopsy tools and devices for brachytherapy, a form of radiation therapy.
• Vascular: Bard's vascular products include grafts, stents, and catheters designed to treat vascular diseases and conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and peripheral arterial disease (PAD).
• Surgical Specialties: This category includes a wide range of surgical instruments and devices for procedures in general surgery, as well as specialty areas such as hernia repair and wound care.

Acquisitions and Growth

Throughout its history, Bard has grown both organically and through strategic acquisitions. These acquisitions have allowed Bard to enter new markets, expand its product portfolio, and strengthen its position in the global healthcare industry. Notable acquisitions include the purchase of companies specializing in catheters, stent technologies, and surgical products.

Corporate Responsibility and Innovation

Bard is committed to corporate responsibility, with a focus on ethical business practices, sustainability, and community engagement. The company invests heavily in research and development, aiming to address unmet medical needs and improve patient outcomes through innovative medical technologies.

Merger with Becton, Dickinson and Company

In 2017, Bard was acquired by Becton, Dickinson and Company (BD), another leading global medical technology company. This merger has further enhanced Bard's ability to offer a more comprehensive portfolio of healthcare solutions and extend its global reach.

Conclusion

C.R. Bard, Inc. has established itself as a key player in the medical device industry through its dedication to innovation, quality, and patient care. As part of Becton, Dickinson and Company, Bard continues to influence the healthcare landscape, developing technologies that advance medical care and improve patient lives worldwide.