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Examination Gowns Market size is estimated to grow at a notable CAGR from 2024-2032, owing to the rise in incidents of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs). Ventilator events and central line-associated bloodstream infections are among the most commonly occurring HAIs worldwide. As per NCBI, the estimated direct yearly cost of treating HAIs in the U.S. ranges from $28.4 billion to $45 billion, placing a huge load on the public health system. In recent years, clinics and private hospitals are also witnessing an upsurge in elective surgical procedure rates due to the increasing number of patients facing delayed surgeries during the COVID-19 pandemic, further propelling the use of safety equipment.
Examination gowns, intended to deliver broad barrier protection, are utilized as personal protective equipment to safeguard against a range of disease-causing microorganisms. They help to prevent the transfer of microorganisms that could pose health concerns to patients with compromised immune systems.
Strong focus on the development of functional and reusable healthcare solutions to mitigate environmental footprint is one of the prominent trends influencing the industry outlook. For example, in September 2023, a Mayo Clinic’s mechanic-turned-cardiac surgeon designed a surgical gown with pockets to allow doctors to avoid misplacing their equipment on the operating table and make the surgery less hectic. However, restrictions, such as pricing pressures, stringent regulatory requirements, limited disposable gown availability, and competition from reusable gown alternatives may slow down the market growth to some degree.
Lately, several healthcare facilities are increasingly opting for disposable gowns due to their convenience, infection control benefits, and cost-effectiveness. Disposable gowns offer single-use protection, further reducing the risk of cross-contamination and eliminating the need for laundering while saving time and resources. With the strong emphasis on infection prevention and control, coupled with the convenience of disposable options, healthcare providers are increasingly adding to the product demand. The shift towards disposable items for catering to the evolving needs of healthcare facilities worldwide will also accelerate the industry growth.
The surgical examination gown product segment is slated to hold a considerable share of the examination gowns industry by 2032, on account of the high awareness regarding the risk of infections among patients undergoing surgeries. The availability of disposable surgical gowns made with materials that do not absorb fluids has increased, subsequently ensuring protection against cross-contamination among surgeons and patients. Furthermore, the growing emphasis on hygiene to limit the risk of HAIs will accelerate the product uptake.
Based on usability, the disposable examination gowns market will amass considerable gains over the forecast period. The emergence of disposable gowns as a popular item in medical settings is attributed to their low contamination risks and exposure to harmful germs and objects, including needles. These products are created using breathable fabrics to ensure ease of use during surgical procedures. However, non-compatibility with hazardous liquids may limit the demand for disposable examination gowns to a certain extent.
On the regional front, the Europe examination gowns industry is set to exhibit robust growth between 2024-2032, considering the mounting healthcare expenditure and household per capita incomes. According to the 2023 Health at a Glance report, healthcare expenditures in developed European nations reached about 9.2% of the GDP. Additionally, the initiation of multiple hospital construction projects will augment the requirement for medical protective gowns across the region
Major participants in the market are emphasizing innovations in gown materials, design, and manufacturing processes to enhance comfort, protection, and infection control. Strategic partnerships, marketing initiatives, and adherence to regulatory standards are also essayed by these firms for expanding the market reach and meeting the evolving healthcare industry demands.
Prominent players in the global examination gowns market include-