What To Consider Before You Rent Medical Equipment

By Annabelle Holman


The practice of medicine is considered as one of the most costly business in terms of investment in equipment. This field requires the highest level of technology and quality in order to enhance services to the patients. However, the acquisition of the equipment proves a rather daunting task due to their expensive nature and the variation in prices and quality. In order to ease you with the hassle and risk entailed in the acquisition, this article enlightens you on important factors when you want to rent medical equipment.

To begin with, examine the availability of cash. The amount of cash available for the project will, to a great extent, dictate whether to buy or undertake a rental agreement for the appliance. For instance, a company that has enough supply of cash is better placed to buy the asset. However, a practicing firm that is faced with cash flow challenges cannot afford to commit large sums of money on investment expenditures. Such a firm, by buying the equipment, risks depriving itself of working capital. The financial position of the firm is thus a vital factor of concern.

There is also the need to protect the practice against obsolescence. Renting medical devices come handy due to the high rate of obsolescence and depreciation that is associated with them. When you buy, you only stand a chance of reselling them at a throw away price after depreciating. This can be evaded by outsourcing for the services through the rental deal.

Like in any other decision, remember to obtain the necessary information. The feasibility of different projects can only be analyzed based on pertinent information. For, example, the cash flow of the different projects can be determined from the data obtained from the market analysis. As such examine the incremental cash flows of the project in an effort to ascertain their viability.

Apart from the sales support, consider analyzing the monthly payments and compare them against the cost of buying. The best deal can only be approached at by making a comparison between the two payments. Consider the long term implications of the monthly payments and weigh the costs against a lump sum purchase. The monthly payments will always outweigh the cost of the asset, but be sure to examine the convenience too.

The cost of maintaining the equipment should also be determined. Though the initial cost and the monthly payments may appear cheap, be sure to implore the cost of maintaining the equipment operational. Also, it is good to determine the chances of shifting the maintenance responsibility to the rental company. This enables you to lower the general cost of renting the appliance. However, where you cannot bargain and shift the responsibility, remember to rent devices that are a bit affordable to maintain.

The schedule of repair and cost of service must also fall into play. It is important to note that throughout the rental period, you as the user is responsible for maintaining the device. It is hence important to opt for a deal that has a fair number of services together with a quite convenient service time. In addition, differentiate between the two types of leases (operating versus capital) and select the one that best suits your needs.

All in all, the decision lies with you. Remember that no one else knows exactly the equipment needs of your firm and the financial position. However, do yourself good by opting for the right investment.




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