Archive for November, 2009

How Hospitals Can Benefit from Buying and Selling Used Medical Equipment

It seems like every day we are hearing about the latest advancements in medical equipment technology. With so many stimulus dollars now allowing hospitals to upgrade their lab equipment, EKG machines and patient monitoring devices, many of these institutions are able to profit by selling their used equipment via online medical equipment dealers.

An Affordable Medical Equipment Marketplace

In addition to giving the equipment a second life, this convenient and timely online marketplace also allows hospitals and physicians to purchase refurbished medical equipment at a fraction of buying it new. Now, rather than poring through catalogs and working with a network of manufacturer’s representatives, medical professionals can tap into a large, competitive online market for the purchase and sale of equipment. Not only is this a fiscally sound way of managing a tight budget, it is also environmentally friendly and resourceful.

Are Online Medical Equipment Dealers Reliable?

All members of the medical profession can benefit from buying and selling used medical equipment online. Doctors, dentists, manufacturers, hospitals, specialists, surgeons and clinicians all appreciate the flexibility and cost-savings provided by the ability to buy and sell used equipment.

Because these businesses are backed by the stability of a secure web site, no-hassle return policy and manufacturers’ warranties, there is no reason to worry about the quality and reliability of their medical equipment. Most used medical equipment dealers employ a staff of experienced professionals from the medical manufacturing industry to answer customer questions and ensure a smooth transaction.

Overall, the ability to buy and sell medical equipment online is an important breakthrough for the health care industry. It cuts down on waste, it is economical, and it is a win-win for everyone in the medical profession.

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Buying Used Medical Equipment: Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Most medical facilities are on a tight budget, so it would seem that buying used medical equipment would be a smart way to save money. However, if you want to get the best deal without getting burned, here are some common mistakes that should be avoided.

* Buy for the future: Try to anticipate some of the features you might need in six months to a year, rather than focusing on what you need at the moment. If you have to re-sell the equipment in a year, it isn’t a bargain – no matter how great the price.
* Look at your space first: Some used medical equipment buyers find that once the equipment arrives, the space they had allocated for the equipment wasn’t large enough to accommodate it. Be sure to take accurate measurements of the space you have available, and compare these to the specs on the seller’s web site, and be sure to consider adequate power sources and ventilation requirements.
* Know the right price range: Sometimes a deal sounds good until you do some comparison shopping. For every piece of medical equipment, there is an acceptable range of prices. Be sure to assess the ideal price range, given the product’s condition, and aim to remain in that range.
* Will your staff need training? Whenever a new piece of medical equipment is brought into a facility, it may have functions and features that are unfamiliar to your staff. It may make sense to pay more for equipment that is easy to use and service so it can be used effectively.
* Post to medical forums: Consider asking for the advice of colleagues before making a decision on a new piece of medical equipment. A great way to do this is by finding a forum on the type of machine you are considering, and asking for input from people who use it.

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How to Judge the Condition of Used Medical Equipment

Buying used medical equipment is kind of like buying a used car. Sometimes just kicking the tires isn’t enough. You may need to spend some time doing your research before making a purchase.

Refurbished vs. Used Equipment

Sometimes, buying refurbished equipment is a better option. Just like a “certified pre-owned” automobile, refurbished medical equipment often comes with a warranty, newer parts and upgraded software. Unless you fully trust the company selling it to you, buying equipment in “as is” condition may mean you are taking your chances.

A refurbished machine will sometimes be better presented than used equipment too, since the manufacturer may take the time to make cosmetic improvements. It may even look like new, which does a lot to inspire patient confidence.

Of course, the downside to refurbished medical equipment is it may not be as cheap as a used machine, but at least you will get some sort of service agreement or warranty to make up for the added expense.

Some used medical equipment dealers use a rating system to help buyers be aware of the equipment’s actual condition. These include classifications such as “in the box”, “some scratches”, “needs repairs”, or “works well”, but there are still no guarantees. Whenever possible, you should test the equipment yourself to make sure everything works, or hire a technician to test it for you.

Get it in writing

Another way to work with a used medical equipment dealer is to request a contract that allows you to return the equipment if it is not in the condition described. When the product is shipped, be sure to add insurance to the shipping method just in case something happens to it in transit.

And finally, pay close attention to training and service. Some used and refurbished equipment comes with a training manual, but in some cases the instructions are incomplete or missing. Since the selling company may not provide training for your staff, you will want to be sure it is available. Sometimes the dealer will point you in the right direction for third-party onsite training, which is often available for an additional fee. Remember, the best deal on medical equipment isn’t worth it if no one can figure out how to use the machine.

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