Buying Any Kind of Medical Equipment? Don't Proceed Without Asking These 7 Questions First

Opening a new medical office is exciting and a huge accomplishment for any medical professional. It's possible to establish a strong foundation for the new medical practice by choosing affordable and high-quality medical equipment that is going to withstand the test of time. For medical professionals who are ready to begin finding the equipment they need, make sure to consider the questions here first.

Buying Any Kind of Medical Equipment? Don't Proceed Without Asking These 7 Questions First

1. What Medical Equipment is Necessary for the Office?

Regardless of if a medical office needs a high-quality hospital bed, a controlled substance cabinet, or anything else, making a list of all the items that are needed first is essential for ensuring an office is properly stocked for superior patient care. Make sure to prioritize the list by putting the most important items at the top and the non-essentials at the bottom. Make sure a comprehensive list is created.

Some of the items that should be on a list of equipment for any medical office include ceiling-mounted LED lights, sterilizers with a chamber large enough to hold the biggest instruments used, and a table for each of the treatment areas. Each practice is going to have unique and specialized items on the list, too. The key is to create the list to figure out what is needed for the office.

2. Is it possible to Get All the Needed Equipment from a Single Supplier?

When buying medical equipment, there are two paths to consider. One is to source each item from a separate provider. The second option is to purchase the needed items from a company that specializes in offering equipment packages. Buying from a single supplier can help any medical practice save some money on the needed equipment.

3. What Methods Can Be Used for Tracking Equipment Costs and Expenses?

Tracking the purchases that are made is one of the habits that a medical professional has to develop for their office. There are several reasons that tracking these equipment expenses is so important.

It is possible to deduct as much as $1 million in total equipment costs according to Section 179 of the tax law. It may also be necessary to present proof of the equipment purchase to access the warranty coverage. Maintaining a list of the purchases that have been made is also beneficial if the medical professional wants to upgrade or sell their equipment in the future.

4. Is There a Way to Get a Head Start Regarding the Needed Equipment?

It's important for medical professionals to avoid waiting until the month before they are going to open the medical practice to start sourcing the medical equipment that is needed. There are some medical providers that require between six and eight weeks to process the orders. Having the items delivered may take another week or more, depending on the office's location.

It's a good idea to start researching the potential equipment suppliers a minimum of six months before the office is scheduled to open. This provides enough of a bugger to ensure the medical equipment can arrive and be set up properly before patients are scheduled.

5. Are There Any Upcoming Industry Trade Shows Where Special Offers May be Given?

Going to a trade show or another type of professional meeting is an ideal way to save some money and to see the medical equipment before actually buying it. In fact, there are several ways a medical professional may be able to save money with this method.

For example, there are several equipment providers that offer discounts to medical professionals who order the items during the trade show. Also, some presenters at the trade show may offer equipment freebies and giveaways to those who attend. It's also possible to receive additional savings by purchasing demo equipment or floor models.

6. Are There Any Special Delivery Needs for the Equipment That's Ordered?

Sterilizers, x-ray equipment, tables, and other common medical devices and equipment are very large and often weight several hundred pounds. This creates a challenge for the person or company hired to deliver them, especially if the office isn't easily accessed.

There are some tips that can help overcome these delivery challenges. One of the first things a person should do is to let the equipment providers know if the office is not on the bottom floor of a building. It's also a good idea to let them know if white glove service is needed or if debris haul-off services are necessary. Be sure to let the provider know of the hours of operation in the offer to ensure there are no failed delivery attempts due to the delivery personnel coming when the office is closed.

7. Is it Possible to Get the Warranty Details in Writing?

When getting prices for the needed equipment from various providers, it's a good idea to ask to have a written quote that includes the product warranty details. Always be cautious when choosing a provider that won't offer the quotes in writing, even if the prices are appealing. The equipment quote should also include an expiration date, along with this information.

The itemized cost for every piece of equipment that is requested along with a description of the accessories that are included with the purchase. Other factors include the estimated delivery costs and a summary of the warranty provided with the product.

Getting the Right Medical Equipment for the Right Price

While purchasing all the medical equipment needed for a new office may seem like a huge undertaking, it doesn't have to be. With the tips and information here it is possible to ensure the right items are gotten for the right price. Don't rush into this decision.

Instead, take the time to ask the seven questions that have been listed here. Doing so is going to ensure that the right equipment is purchased, for the right price, and that it comes with a quality warranty that will provide peace of mind to the medical professional who is purchasing it. Doing all this will pay off in the long run and help ensure the success of the medical practice.