You may think that hospitals would be more likely to buy new medical equipment, since they use these medical devices to make accurate diagnoses to save patients’ lives. The truth is many hospitals buy used and refurbished equipment for a variety of reasons, but the main reason is usually the cost savings.Compared to new equipment, used medical devices can be purchased at a fraction of the price, potentially saving thousands of dollars. Many hospitals are dealing with a budget cut, so buying used medical equipment is a great way to get the equipment they need to care for patients and save a considerable amount of money in the process. They are able to upgrade their older machines to newer models, even if it is not the latest model. Even further, some used equipment may still have a warranty on it. Hospitals that have more money to spend on the latest equipment may sell their older equipment directly to other hospitals, so many of the devices and machines are in almost-new condition and are protected by the original warranty.A variety of different pieces of medical machinery can be purchased used, including defibrillators, ultrasound machines, scanners, patient monitors and EKG machines. Companies and medical technicians who sell the used and refurbished medical equipment are aware of the required standards in the medical field, so they ensure the machinery is thoroughly cleaned and test the devices to ensure they operate correctly. Buying used medical equipment allows hospitals to buy newer and better-quality machines. They are able to get more for their money and get the latest technology, ensuing that they are able to deliver a higher level of health care for their patients.Of course, buying used and refurbished devices takes a bit more work than just buying a new piece directly from the manufacturer. There has to be research done to be sure of the credentials of the dealer. The policies and standards of the seller need to be reviewed to ensure that the equipment will be in the condition expected and works properly. If a machine is not functioning properly, it could potentially harm patients or result in a misdiagnosis of a serious health condition.Used medical equipment offers hospitals, doctors offices, and clinics the benefits of having a newer piece of machinery at a fraction of the price of buying new. It helps relieve the financial burden which also helps keeps the patients costs down as well.
