My wife and I are very cautious when we spend. Every penny is accounted for, and every surprise is documented. With a new baby in the household - we cannot afford any surprises that could possibly lead to longterm extra expenses.

It's an interesting position that we find ourselves in - a position that isn't so different from what small med-tech companies have stated they're facing with the upcoming med-device tax.

Already, we've seen Stryker send a loud message to the industry, by announcing a reduction of 5% of its staff. Aanalysts are saying that we could see more companies following suit in the near future.

Here's where it gets tricky. Should med-tech companies pay this extra tax? Supporters of the tax say that it could add up to $20 billion in revenue over a 10 year period - when applied across the entire healthcare landscape.

But industry groups who oppose the tax say it could be much better spent by medical device manufacturers researching new products that would go a long way towards reducing the costs of medical care.

Legislators are simply asking med-tech firms to pay their fair share. Med-tech firms are asking legislators not to cripple an industry that's effectively working.