We’ve seen the world struggle to find enough masks, gloves, and medical equipment for hospitals worldwide. The medical devices market alone is expected to reach $603.5 billion by 2023.
If you don’t have a plan, you might find yourselves without the medical equipment you need.
Keep reading to learn how to find the best medical equipment for your medical practice. With these tips, you can prepare for the year ahead. You can also keep your practice up-to-date with the latest tools and supplies.
Ready to start shopping? Learn where to buy the medical equipment you need with these tips.
1. Know What You Need
Before you can buy what you need, you need to know what medical equipment you need. Making a list can save you valuable time.
It can also help you avoid missing anything during the shopping process.
Keeping an inventory of your supplies will ensure you never experience a shortage. Instead, you can order what you need before you run out.
First, think about the disposable items you’ll need to restock continuously. These can include gloves, masks, and thermometers.
What pieces of lasting medical equipment do you need to replace this year? For example, you might have an old exam table. Maybe one of your EKG machines broke recently.
Note these items as well.
Does your company have any unique needs? Are you making any changes to your medical practice?
For example, if you plan on expanding, you might need a new medical distributor. Maybe you need someone who can provide new, more innovative technologies.
Are you moving into a new specialty? You might need equipment that suits your new practice instead.
Research what you’ll need to ensure your business has those resources handy.
Make a List
Make a list of the medical equipment you’ve used in the past year. These might include:
- Protective equipment (gloves, face masks, eyewear, aprons, etc.)
- Computers, printers, and other electronics
- Exam tables
- Emergency equipment (airways, oxygen, masks, aspirators, resuscitation masks, etc.)
- Autoclave
- Centrifuge
- Clocks
- Stainless steel equipment
- Wheelchairs
- Laboratory diagnostic equipment (microscopes, specimen refrigerators, centrifuge, analyzers, etc.)
- Stethoscopes
- Telephones, televisions, etc.
- Procedure tables
- Cabinetry and storage
- ECG unit and accessories
- Exam tables
- Janitorial equipment
- Breakroom appliances
- Diagnostic basics (thermometer, pulse oximeter, blood pressure monitor, etc.)
- Bodyweight scales
- Waiting room furniture
As you review this list, ask yourself whether or not the brand matters. Are you picky about the medical supplies you use? Put a star next to the supplies that require a specific supplier.
It’s okay if you need to choose more than one medical equipment provider. With the right tips, you can reduce how many providers you’ll need. Then, you can cut costs to get a better deal.
If the brand doesn’t matter, you can choose from the many manufacturers and providers available. That way, you can find the one that sells the majority of what you need.
2. Look for Providers and Distributors
It can save you valuable time and effort by finding a medical equipment provider who offers everything you need. Make a list of potential providers and research each business. What medical equipment do they supply?
Do any of them specialize in providing equipment for a specific medical niche?
There are over 14,392 medical supplies wholesale businesses in the country. The industry is continuing to grow, too. Make sure to explore your options.
Doing some due diligence into each company can help you make the right choice. It can also help you learn what to expect from each provider.
What are the company’s strengths? What is their unique value proposition? Why are they better than their competitors?
Which companies keep up-to-date with innovative medical technology trends?
Remember, you’ll want to find a medical equipment provider that can meet your needs. If they focus on smaller markets, they might struggle to maintain your inventory.
A smaller company, however, might have fewer clients. They could have more time to spend on helping your business. Bigger businesses are often spread thin.
Here are a few other tips that can help you choose a provider.
Consider Past Experiences
What company did you use in the past? Were you happy with their service and the equipment they provided?
Some medical practices prefer to work with a company they’re already familiar with. Switching to a new one could ensure you receive better service, though.
If you’re not satisfied with your current supplier, switch it up. You might find that a new supplier will make your life easier.
While having a long-running relationship with a business has its benefits, you might find it’s time for a change.
Read Reviews
You can learn more about each company’s reputation by reading online reviews. Check the Better Business Bureau website. Do they have any complaints filed against them?
You can also check their Google My Business listing.
About 95% of customers read reviews before making a purchase. Reviews make customers over 70% more comfortable about buying a product, too. Read reviews for peace of mind before choosing a supplier.
Is the company reliable and eager to help its clients? Have any of those clients complained? Did the company fail to communicate or sell bad quality equipment?
Reading reviews can help you learn more about the quality, consistency, and efficiency of each business.
Consider Quality Over Price
When choosing a supplier, remember you’ll get what you’re paying for. You don’t want a company that’s inexperienced or offers low-quality products. They might offer insufficient training and inconsistency as well.
Working with a cheaper business could do more harm than good to your medical practice. Keep that in mind when comparing your options.
3. Consider Your Budget
Before choosing a medical supplies provider, take a look at your budget. How much can you afford?
Take the time to track your previous equipment purchases. You can use your receipts to determine your budget.
4. Don’t Wait
Don’t wait until the last minute to start sourcing your medical equipment. In some cases, you might wait six to eight weeks to receive an order.
Instead, explore your options now. If you plan on starting a new practice, research providers six months before you open your doors. Waiting too long to choose a provider could delay deliveries.
5. Ask for Discounts
Some medical equipment suppliers are willing to offer discounts and price breaks. Remember, there are benefits to buying everything you need from one provider. Let them know you’re willing to choose their business if they can help you find a deal.
A company that’s willing to make a deal values its customers. They’re also able to distinguish themselves from other providers.
If the provider doesn’t want to offer a discount, that’s okay.
Ask if they can provide complementary training or free delivery instead. Some businesses will even offer accessories or an extended warranty.
6. Ask About Overstock Items
Does the company have any overstock items? Some medical equipment providers offer special pricing:
- Discontinued colors
- Demo models
- Overstock items
Businesses won’t advertise these deals, though. Make sure to ask if the provider can help work within your budget.
7. Check Trade Shows
You can also find special offers at medical trade shows and professional meetings. These opportunities give you a chance to see the medical equipment up close.
Talk to the equipment providers at each event. Ask if they offer any discounts. Some provide discounts if you order while you’re at the tradeshow.
You can even get additional savings by purchasing floor models.
8. Request Training
It’s not enough to buy the best medical supplies on the market. If you want to set your medical practice up for success, ask the provider if they offer training. Equipment training on-site will help your staff.
Consider keeping equipment operating manuals handy, too.
9. Outline Special Requests
Do you have any special delivery requests? For example, X-ray equipment and tables can weigh hundreds of pounds. You might need help.
Talk to the supplier about the delivery process. Make a plan to avoid any delays.
10. Get the Warranty in Writing
Talk to the provider about getting your quote and the warranty in writing. Getting a written copy will help you avoid disputes later on.
Your quote should include an itemized cost of each piece of equipment and estimated delivery costs.
11. Look into Refurbished Items
If you’re looking for ways to save money for your medical practice, consider refurbished equipment.
Before making any purchases, ask for a written quote and check the warranty details. What if the equipment doesn’t work? Is the provider registered with the FDA?
Don’t rush to make any purchases you might regret.
12. Check for Specials
Some medical equipment suppliers offer deals at the end of the year. Consider purchasing your inventory during November and December.
Talk to a sales representative to see if they have any holiday specials available.
Set for Success: 12 Tips for Buying Equipment for Your Medical Practice
Don’t break the bank buying medical equipment! Instead, use these 12 tips to get everything you need. With these tips, you can prepare your medical practice for success ahead.
Need help finding the best medical equipment for your practice? We’re here to help.
Contact us today for low prices and fast delivery times!