Purchasing a medical device is often a significant investment. Additionally, the device that you choose can have a large impact on the quality of service you are able to provide. To ensure the success of your practice and the safety of your patients, it is essential to choose wisely. Here are a few important factors to consider when choosing a medical device.
The Quality of the Device
Higher quality equipment is typically more durable, lasts longer, and will help your facility perform more accurate procedures. As such, one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a medical device is its quality. Determining quality, however, isn’t always that simple.
Often, buyers make the mistake of thinking that quality directly correlates to cost. However, the most expensive medical device isn’t always the best. To ensure you’re purchasing the highest quality medical device for your application, it is crucial to research the manufacturer.
Generally, a high-quality equipment manufacturer will provide you with proof of their certification, which ensures they’ve taken the necessary measures to manufacture and package their medical devices in accordance with current standards. High-quality equipment manufacturers will also often offer a full warranty on new equipment. If proof of certification and a full warranty isn’t provided, you may want to purchase your equipment elsewhere.
Protection From Intellectual Property Theft
Another important factor to consider when choosing a medical device is whether the device provides protection from intellectual property theft. Intellectual property theft is a serious issue in the medical world and involves stolen ideas, discoveries, or inventions.
To avoid intellectual property theft, it is ideal to purchase equipment that has important electronic components overmolded into the device. By molding the device into the machinery, stealing parts and the important data that they contain proves far more difficult than if the intellectual property was included in a separate piece.
The Delivery Timeline
The estimated delivery timeline of the medical device is also important to consider when making a purchase. If you require a specific device by a certain date, it is essential to look into the manufacturing company’s delivery procedures. When doing so, research whether they strictly stick to their schedule and how efficient their delivery system is.
If the company can’t guarantee a timely delivery, you will need to reassess your priorities or go with a different manufacturing company. It is worth noting that purchasing used medical equipment rather than manufacturing a new device is often a quicker option for those who must operate on short timelines.
