Equipping a medical laboratory with the right equipment is a major decision both for the solo practitioner and administrators of larger facilities. However, a systematic approach could ease the decision making process when purchasing medical equipment.

1. Identify your needs

The first thing you need to do is make a list of all the laboratories equipment that you need. Along with this is the proposed location of the lab equipment and the timeframe when you need it installed and operational.

For example, your list could include the following: beds, stretchers & tables, endoscopy, imaging equipment, IV and infusion equipment, patient monitors, respiratory equipment, etc. You will also need to look at the areas in your facility and determine what equipment is needed in each section. You could have various departments like cardiology, laboratory & pathology, operating room, maternity ward, physical therapy, etc.

The timeframe for delivery is another part of identifying your needs.

2. Determine your budget

The next thing you have to know is how much your budget is for all the medical equipments that you listed down in step 1. This could be a range instead of a fixed amount so that you have some flexibility when weighing the alternatives later.

3. Search for information

Now that you know what you need and how much you plan to spend on them your next step is to gather as much information as will help you in making your purchasing decision.

  • Consult your fellow medical professionals on their previous experiences with lab equipment suppliers.
  • Look for other sources of information such as newspapers, radio, television, professional organizations, specialist magazines and the Internet. You may check testing lab equipment directory for complete list of medical equipments and supplier in your locality.
  • Make a short-list of suppliers based on their registration or certification with applicable government agencies and their track record in the industry.
  • Request for quotes from your short-list of suppliers. The quotes should indicate the price, warranty, accessories, shipping & delivery costs, taxes, and time to prepare the equipment for delivery.

4. Evaluate the alternatives

In the evaluation stage, you must choose between the alternative brands, products and services. Compare the quotes with regard to total cost as well as features or functions of the medical equipment being evaluated.

Your decision involves high expenditure, so take the time to study each alternative carefully in order to make a proper evaluation. Look at the important attributes of the medical equipment, the advantages compared with the competition; and maybe even ask for a “trial” or “sampling” of the equipment. Ask the supplier for some customer references who could give you direct feedback based on their experience with the supplier and the equipment.

5. Decide to purchase

  • Select the best option based on your evaluation criteria and purchase the type of clinical equipment that will best meet your needs.
  • Finalize the payment process.

Once your laboratories equipment arrives, carefully check for completeness and functionality. In case of problems give immediate feedback to your supplier.

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