Medline exits the bed business; FDA Early Alert cites two deaths and 16 injuries

Medline told customers on October 14, 2026 that it is removing, discontinuing and exiting the market for all Medline Brand beds: homecare, bariatric and long-term care beds plus pendants, rails, mattresses, accessories and replacement parts. The FDA posted an Early Alert on October 29 citing fire risk from overheating electrical components and entrapment risk when beds are used with accessories; as of October 20, Medline had reported two deaths and 16 serious injuries. An October 24 update lets customers keep beds in use under revised instructions (unplugged except while repositioning a patient, no extension cords) until repair, replacement or a full or partial refund, with remedies covering items bought in the last five years. In an October 21 SEC filing, Medline put affected net sales at about $60 million for the twelve months ended June 27, 2026 and estimated total costs of up to $220 million.

Why it matters. Dealers and facilities that stock Medline beds need a replacement supplier and a plan for every bed already in the field, and the remedy each customer gets depends on purchase date.