How to Get Quality Pre-Owned Medical Equipment

The idea of buying used or pre-owned medical equipment is becoming more and more popular in the medical industry. In fact, many medical businesses prefer to buy used instead of new medical equipment, and most will say that this trend is only expected to grow in the future. The financial benefits of buying pre-owned equipment is hard for most to resist. However, there are some things that you need to consider and be wary of prior to buying any pre-owned medical equipment.

When properly refurbished medical equipment can look and work almost as good as new equipment. Some can even last as long as new equipment when treated and maintained properly. All of this can come at a fraction of the cost, but you have to be careful. One false move and the savings that you thought you had can cost you big in the long run. This does not just affect your finances but also can affect the lives of your patients. Malfunctioning medical equipment can cause people to die. This means you have to be certain in any pre-owned medical equipment you purchase. Here is a list of a few things to research prior to purchasing this equipment:

1. Certified Pre-Owned Medical Equipment. Purchasing certified-pre-owned medical equipment is always your safest best. This equipment will come with certain certifications and qualifications to ensure that you are getting top-notch equipment that is working as it should. Of course, you should always confirm that the equipment you are purchasing comes with these qualifications. Typically, the seller will put the equipment through a thorough inspection to ensure that it meets the relevant engineering industry performance standards. If it needs repairs or adjustments, these are done prior to selling and will follow the original manufacturer’s specifications. This all adds up to the equipment performing just as well as new equipment. Most come with warranties, but you need to confirm and get in writing what type of guarantees and warranties your seller offers.
2. Installation, Maintenance and Repairs. You need to ensure you know what you are paying for. Some used equipment may come with perks where others do not. You will need to talk with your vendor or seller and see what they offer. You should inquire about installation. Does the price they post include installation? Is it extra? They may not even offer installation. Will they come out and help train your staff on how to properly use thus equipment? Will someone come out to perform routine maintenance on the equipment, or will it cost extra? Some vendors will provide loaner equipment if your original piece of equipment has to be repaired. Not everyone offers the same perks. You need to be sure prior to purchasing. Also, remember to get everything in writing and store the paperwork where it is easily accessible.
3. Brand Names. When purchasing used medical equipment, it is best to try to purchase the most popular brand names. You can research and find which name brand products are considered the best of the best for each particular piece of medical equipment you need to purchase. By purchasing a brand name, you will be able to know a little about what type of equipment you are buying and will be less likely to purchase something that is defective. Also, when your customers see a name brand piece of equipment, they may feel a little more at ease knowing that you are using top quality equipment on them. Remember to do your research on each and every brand you are considering. Unfortunately, you cannot simply take the seller’s word on the reliability and productivity of the product, but you can research a brand name and model and see what others are saying. So, take the time and do your research to feel a little bit better about your used product purchase.
4. Level of refurbishment. There are different levels of refurbishment that you should familiarize yourself with. This way you can know what you are getting into prior to buying a piece of used medical equipment. Here is a list of the different levels of refurbishment:

• Reprocessed equipment. This used equipment will be checked by professionals to ensure that it meets all the operational standards set b the manufacturer. It will also be thoroughly cleaned, disinfected and sterilized.
• Cosmetically refurbished equipment. This used equipment will be checked to ensure it is fully operation per the manufacturer’s standards. It will also be sterilized, and it will be cosmetically restored to have the appearance of a new piece of equipment. This cosmetic refurbishment will give your clients a better sense of security. They will see a nice new shiny piece of equipment and feel a little more secure in doing business with you.
• Parts refurbished equipment. This used equipment comes cosmetically refurbished and also the parts are replaced to ensure that the equipment is fully operational. This way you and your clients can rest assured that the equipment looks nice and works as it should.
• Fully refurbished equipment. This used equipment has been redone from the top to bottom. The parts are replace with new or upgraded parts. Then the equipment is reassembled and tested to ensure that it is fully operational. It is also cosmetically refurbished and almost a completely new piece of equipment.

In order to get the most out of your used equipment, you will need to put in all the necessary time and work. Research guarantees, warranties, sellers and brand names. Remember to do your research to find the best seller and used equipment to fit your needs.

by https://medical-stretchers.com/